Lite-On DVD Player Plus ( LVR-2001 )

Rating:
Summary: Versatile
Review: My previous dvd (an Apex AD1500) broke down mechanically and I needed to replace it. It had to do everything the apex did. It does and more. The first thing I tried was to burn a CD with an XviD file (mpeg-4) and stick it in: IT WORKS! (as advertised). Therefore I don't have to connect a computer or laptop to my tv to watch this format. A minor gripe is that with divx/xvid, I cannot fast forward/go back. Pause works.
Since it will also read my memory sticks directly, No need to connect my Sony camcorder to watch still pictures. The slideshow takes a while to start after you insert the stick (inside a pcmcia format adapter), but once it starts, it is pretty slick.
The display quality is really great on my plasma tv, especially with component video. You can switch the unit to progressive scan.
Mechanically, it feels more sturdy and better adjusted than the Apex, but only time will tell. It seems to run a bit warm and I hope this will not shorten its lifespan.
I actually like the power light, which is on (and red) when the unit is off. That way it is not distracting when you watch a movie and you can easily turn the unit on in the dark.
I may relocate overseas and it is nice to know the unit can work with pal dvds and tvs, and directly on 220 volts as well. In the same spirit it is reputed to be region friendly. I have french dvds (the equivalent of sesame street etc) and I can play them. No extra, imported, dvd player is necessary for me.
It will also automatically play the picture CDs that you get when you develop photographs. The slideshow is very computer-like and rather enjoyable.
I have not tried the mp3 playing capabilities.
LiteOn publishes firmware updates on their web site. You have to download them, burn them to CD and insert the CD, which I haven't got around to ddo yet. I hope the update will fix the divx fast forward/back.
Not that it matters much, but the dvd seems to be running a linux OS. Maybe this explains the versatility.

All in all, I am 100% happy with the dvd player and I fully recommend it. It may be a bit more pricey than Apex etc, but its ease of use and wide set of functions more than make up for this.