I've got a first gen DVD player (Sony DVP-S500D) it's a great player, no problems like new players have.

However the digital output doesn't output DTS. Is it worth replacing the Sony for a new player that allows DTS output? Haven't got that many DTS discs- T2 Ult, FOTR, Lethal Weapon boxset, Shrek, Die Hard and probably some more.

TV is a 50hz Toshiba RPTV (non-progressive)

Also would I notice a picture quality improvement? Max £1000

Would only be interested in 2 channel SACD/DVD-Audio (not 5.1 DVD-Audio)- my processor is Lexicon MC-1 which lacks 5.1 input

Oh I want a R1-only player- I have no interest in R2/PAL. My collection is R1 NTSC only.


Thanks

[Johndm]

In my opinion, DTS is better than DD..

Others may disagree, but it seems more dynamic and clearer.

I got 3 free DVD-A discs with my Panny RA82, and I must say I won't rush and buy any more 5.1 discs, but if you check the disc specs, some have a high quality stereo track...now that is nice!

[ferris57]

I agree that dts is a little more dynamic, However If you are happy with the player you have, I wouldn't upgrade purely for dts. The difference between DD and dts is very small imho. I honestly struggle to tell the difference, but then I'm not an audiophile.

[hornydragon]

This is an old debate You might like to demo a pioneer 656 as it is a universal player and does DVD-A and SACD If you want those. You might see an improvement, also has Component out if the tosh will accept it.I like DTS but some DD tracks are awsome, probably not worth buying for DTS alone!

I also started with a Sony DVP-S500D (still have it in my bedroom -- it's a close cousin to the original Sony 7000ES). I now have an Arcam DV27. Until you get an HDTV-capable display I'd stick with what you have. That unit does a fantastic job of converting anamorphic images to what your present TV will support. It's not the greatest for CD sound but I would not jump just to get DTS. I wouldn't change players until you change displays.

For your present RPTV you have a winner!

Cheers for that rafaelp. It is a excellent machine - very very quiet, and no problems with RCE discs, seamless branched disc, unusual Disney discs. It's got Component out, so I'm at least using the best connection method on the DVD & RTPV.

Not using it for CD replay- use the digital audio it to a processor. Got a seperate CDP & DAC.

Will leave it then.

[Steve.EX]

Nathan

This is sound advice IMHO.
I would replace your dvd for other reasons such as better picture/transport/connectivity/ etc etc and accept DTS compatibility as "a bonus" to these real improvements.
There is the ODD example where a DTS track is clearly superior (this can be for a number of reasons - not just because it is DTS per se')

Nathan (and watch out for this backlash)

I would bet money that maybe 8 out of 10 people would not be able to guess which is which on a blind, matched A/B comparison of unknown material - despite what will obviously follow here.
It is often a case that they will sound (very very slightly) different but quantify better.

Steve.

How would the Panasonic 91 compare for picture quality against my Sony?

If I remember correctly early Sony's didn't have the Chroma Bug (300D,500D,7000) but the later ones did (7700,9000 and on)

[hornydragon]

Nathan do you have a PS2 or Xbox? they will output DTS if you have a decoding Amp so you can give it a try.

No. Last console was the Dreamcast, games are too expensive.

Brother has a Pioneer 606D which can output dts.

[hornydragon]

Borrow that spin some DTS and see what you think, or hook both up play the same DVD in both and see if you can hear the difference!

[marck]

I also have an MC1 and am using a transport (Theta Carmen), for both cd and dvd. I am using only digital inputs on the MC-1 - this makes a massive difference for cd replay.
So, if you are going to upgrade I would recommend looking at a good transport instead. This way you would get DTS, have better music replay, as well as a superior picture for DVD. It would also allow you to sell your current cd player to fund the purchase

Got two systems marck. AV system and a Stereo Hi-Fi system, totally separate from each other.

Looking for a SVS CS-Ultra, CD Transport, plus a high-end DVD player.

Horny, I've borrowed the 606D, but haven't had long to play around with it.

[marck]

ok for some - I am just about allowed the one system!