Features:
- 3-disc carousel style
- Component-video output
- Built-in Dolby Digital decoder
- Compatible with DTS decoders
- 10-bit video digital-to-analog converter
Description:
Pioneer's DV-C302D is a surprisingly trim, three-disc DVD/CD changer that lets you line up a triple feature of flicks or spin more than three hours' worth of nonstop party music. Since Pioneer has championed the cause of multidisc "combi" players since the species was born, we had high expectations for the DV-C302D. With this player, you can program (or reprogram) the machine to play specific tracks or DVDs while the show is already in progress; just open the motorized drawer to add one or two titles. All the while, the third disc (out of sight) continues to play. Pioneer's automatic changeover cycles through from one disc's end to the start of the next in an impressive nine seconds. We found no compromises in picture quality or sound performance, which is reassuring given the fact that multidisc players are more expensive than their single-disc cousins. Audio performance is typical of Pioneer: it's well balanced, with fine 24-bit audio digital-to-analog converters feeding the stereo output jacks. To test the DV-C302D's sonic range, we played an Arnold Schwarzenegger action film. We were blown away by the clarity of the sound--in one spot, the explosions nearly broke through our TV screen! For improved image quality, we strongly recommend that you utilize this player's cinema mode, which darkens colors to improve contrast; and be sure to use the player's S-video or interlaced component-video outputs if your display is equipped to accept them. The DV-C302D incorporates a built-in Dolby Digital decoder, so you can tap into a set of six outputs and feed the signals directly to an amplifier. Or if you prefer, feed the digital bit stream out of the player via optical or coaxial connections and into a Dolby Digital or DTS-decoding receiver of your choice. We tested the DV-C302D's nonstop party entertainment ability with a lively Afro-pop music concert DVD and it offered excellent Dolby Digital surround sound imaging and detail. We relocated the troupe's polyrhythmic percussionists and tribal chanters to the rear channels, which helped suck us into the performance. The player spread the pleasure around our six-speaker system with strength and equanimity. Likewise, high-grade audio CDs of acoustic jazz, electric blues, and classical music were well-tempered and musically revealing. The DV-C302D incorporates an intriguing blue light on the faceplate that blinks only when a DVD is spinning, but we had mixed feelings about the infrared remote control. The buttons are logically laid out, but in many instances they're small and cramped together. We missed not having a next disc button on the remote. Oddly, there is a next disc button on the player itself, along with individual disc call buttons that light selectively to indicate which of three trays are engaged for play. The front panel also includes a very useful row of buttons (numbered 1 to 10) for instantly summoning up individual tracks or chapters. The DV-C302D delivers just one fast scan speed (in forward and reverse) that races along at a merry clip but may be a bit too fast when you're searching for a particular segment. The slow-motion function has variable speeds in the forward direction (1/2 to 1/16 normal speed) that result in grainy images. For home-theater fanatics, the DV-C302D allows you to preset custom playback parameters for up to 15 DVDs and trigger an auto return to the last-played position with up to five titles. All in all, the DV-C302D is an attractive machine that lives up to our expectations from Pioneer as a leader in multidisc players. Pros:
- Good mechanical performance as a disc changer
- Excellent onscreen menu
- Clean, attractive cosmetics
- Good sound quality for movies and music
Cons:
- Crowded remote control
- Limited special play functions
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