Features:
- Dolby Digital and DTS output
- Component, composite, and S-video outputs
- Onscreen bit-rate meter
- Perfect still-picture frame advance
- DVD-video, Video CD, audio CD, CD-R, and CD-RW playback
Description:
"Value packed" is a phrase that accurately describes Philips' DVD711AT DVD-video player. This simple yet high-performance model offers a slew of connection options; the ability to play back DVD-video, audio CDs, Video CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs; and very fine picture and sound quality. To top it off, the DVD711AT's remote control is uncomplicated yet highly effective. In terms of performance, this is a honey of a DVD player. Picture quality is among the best we've seen in this price range, with a fine color balance, good black level, and fine resolution of detail. The sound quality is quite good too, though audio purists will always prefer the sound from a quality dedicated CD player. When it comes time to plug the DVD711AT into your system, you may choose from component video, S-video, or composite video outputs, coaxial or optical digital audio outputs, and two pair of stereo analog outputs. However, the DVD711AT does not offer a headphone jack, which may be a concern if you prefer stealth-mode listening sessions. Despite their ubiquitous nature, remote controls are very personal items. Some prefer massive wands with complex arrays of buttons and gobs of macro controls. If you're in this camp, then the DVD711AT's small, contoured, very simple remote may be a disappointment. We happen to come from the other school of remote appreciation, and very much like the DVD711AT's remote for its simplicity and ease of navigation. The onscreen display (OSD) controls are highlighted in yellow with small icons, so with the touch of one of five buttons you can change subtitles, language tracks, camera angle, zoom, or titles and chapters--nifty! Of course, in an ideal world this remote would also be illuminated, but in this price range that remains a dream, not reality. Speaking of OSD, the one here is very easy to manage and refreshingly clean, as opposed to some of the large and difficult menus we often encounter. We're still not crazy about the bright blue and rather large display window Philips uses on its front panels, but as long as the player is to the side of your TV this won't be a major distraction. There's little else to add. The Philips DVD711AT proved to be a clean machine with a fine balance of features and quality and deserves a strong recommendation. --Wayne Garcia Pros: - Excellent picture quality
- Component and S-video outputs
- Coaxial digital output
- Plays CD-Rs and CD-RWs
- Sweet little remote
Cons: - Bright display can be distracting
- No headphone jack
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