Upscaling DVD players: Current fad or sound investment?

[Uruloke]

Ok, I'm definately going to be purchasing either a Panasonic TX32LXD52 or a JVC LT-32DS6BJ (currently leaning towards the Panasonic even though it doesn't have a VGA input). I am seriously looking into an upscaling DVD player to go with it.

Thing is, I'm wondering if I should hold off buying a HDMI player and just buy a normal progressive scan dvd player with component outputs, most people say there is next to no difference between the two, and as there seems to various issues with some HDMI players compatibility with certain panels, would a normal progressive scan dvd player be the safer option?

Here's the catch, my budget for my new DVD player is only £100. I will probably see an increase in quality to what I currently use regardless of my choice as I am currently using an el-cheapo £30 Pacific POS I bought from Asda! (oh the shame!).

What's the best DVD player I can get for £100 that will make my films look good on my 32" LCD panel?

edit: Just saw this on Empire Directs website: Panasonic DVDS29EBS for £45, progressive scan with component out. Much cheaper than a HDMI player...

[pwood]

Do you have SKY plus. If not you will need a decent DVD recorder to record freeview. VHS on LCD/plasma is to be avoided. I got a Panny es10 and after trying several HDMI players I still use it for my main source as they all had issues. For £45 you can really go wrong with that player plus it will have the added benefit of being able use one remote most of the time.

The best for component picture is the Toshiba 350 but there have been may a post regards its build quality and reliability.

[Uruloke]

I've got Sky+ downstairs and a normal Sky box in my room which I will be using, I will admit that a DVD recorder would be handy but the only program I currently record on my Sky+ is Rome and that's only if I miss it when it's on. Thing is, connecting a DVD player via HDMI would be handy as I will be using the component input for my XBox 360. I could get a switching box, but that's expensive (although it is more expensive than a decent HDMI cable?)

[pwood]

Decent HDMI cable can be got from here. http://www.tmfsolutions.co.uk/homeci...bles_molex.htm

Player wise The Philips one seems to be getting good reports and few if any horror stories regards reliability. Avoid the LG9900 as IMHO its picture was soft albeit it worked okay.

[Uruloke]

Cool, thanks of the link to the cheap HDMI cable, looks like a good option. I just read the whole thread about the Philips DVP5900, looks good

[senu]

it is