DVD Player to run through scaler and panel?

[sdb123]

Hi all,

I will shortly be getting a Panasonic PWD8 and a Lumagen DVI scaler.

I am planning to connect the XBox 360 directly to the panel, Sky+ via Scart>4 RCA to the scaler.

My problem now comes with choice of DVD player. I currently have an Oppo, which I like however not entirely sure how it run with the proposed setup. I am considering going for a Denon 2900 (2nd hand) and wondered if this would work well via component into the scaler>panel?

I've posted a similar question in the DVD forum without reply thus far

I want to make full use of the kit I'll have, so any suggestions/alternatives are welcome!

Steve

[Liam @ Prog AV]

If you can get a 2900 at a decent price I would definitely take it. Awesome DVD player. Don't let the lack of DVI put you off either, in fact for this setup I would advise running analogue to the plasma too!!

[sdb123]

Liam,

Thanks for the reply. It seems your are thinking along the same lines as me.

The Lumagen Vision DVI has the optional BNC Analogue Output fitted. I have ordered the appropriate BNC component input board and will be connecting the scaler to the panel with a RGBHV cable.

I have sourced a 2900 for a reasonable price too so am planning to buy that and connect via component to the scaler.

Does this sound okay? Following proper calibration should the picture be pretty good?

Steve

[Liam @ Prog AV]

You need the 5 BNC RGBHV input card on the Panasonic not the 3 BNC component one. Otherwise it all sounds fantastic. Recently did a Lumagen HDQ with Denon 2900 on a Panasonic 42PHD8 - lovely image. Will probably be the last SD DVD player that client will ever buy.

One thing, you mention PWD8... I would search Matt Horne's posts as he went SD, then got a scaler, then wished he had just gone straight for a HD panel (and a scaler).

[sdb123]

Hi Liam,

Thanks for the reply.

Yes, I've gone for the 5 BNC input card. Did my research on that one!

I've been in a bit of a dilemna over the PHD8 however I am sending Sky HD back and believe I'm making the right decision with this panel....

I'm sure I'll enjoy it anyway!

Steve

[Liam @ Prog AV]

Yes but even with SD TV and DVD the Lumagen can make use of those extra pixels on the PHD8.....

[sdb123]

Originally Posted by Liam @ Prog AV

Yes but even with SD TV and DVD the Lumagen can make use of those extra pixels on the PHD8.....

Killer question time...just how much extra use will it make of the extra pixels of the PHD8 (in a theoretical % if possible)....will my eyes be able to tell the difference?

Steve

[creative-av]

Steve,

Yes you will be able to see the difference. The PWD8 does a very good job of displaying SD and HD material but the PHD8 is another couple of notches up the scale.

Where are you located? Are you able to get to a dealer that has both on display so you can see for yourself?

Steve

[sdb123]

Fat chance of that Steve....I'm in Bedford!

Unless you know of any within say an hours drive?

Steve

[Liam @ Prog AV]

I'm afraid to say only your eyes could put a figure on it, if at all. It's a qualitative thing rather than quantitive. As has been advised, secure yourself a demo (if you can!).

[creative-av]

Have AVLand in Wellingborough got any instock for a demo?

[sdb123]

Originally Posted by creative-av

Have AVLand in Wellingborough got any instock for a demo?

That'd be a no then!

[creative-av]

What about dropping Piers of Home Cinema Engineering a line. He is based in Telford. That's only an hour or so from Bedford. He did have a PHD and a Lumagen setup.

Steve

[Matt Horne]

Originally Posted by Liam @ Prog AV

One thing, you mention PWD8... I would search Matt Horne's posts as he went SD, then got a scaler, then wished he had just gone straight for a HD panel (and a scaler).

Not entirely true.. more than happy with the PWD8.. glad I bought the scaler.. more than impressed with my hidef picture.. glad I saved a few hundred quid in the process

[welwynnick]

I think a Denon 2900, Lumagen Vision DVI and Panasonic PHD8 with ISF claibration would be many people's idea of video heaven round here. Maybe not quite at the top, but very close to it indeed.

Good audio, too.

Nick