Hey guys, I need some opinions from the videophile inmates. My wife and I recently made the jump to HDTV, purchasing a Vizio E370VL when our ancient Zenith console died. We have 3 inputs, a Sony DVP-CX850XD 200-DVD changer, Wii, and PS2. These are all connected through a Monoprice component switch, as the Vizio only has one component input.
I was reading an article about video upconversion that got me thinking. The DVD player outputs at 480i (it was apparently the last model before Sony made progressive scan a standard feature). The Wii and PS2 output at 480P (and on the PS2, only if the game supports it). I've seen a few video scaler or converters boxes that seem to get good reviews, but are also pricey. Also, I'm not really interested in getting a single-disc upconverting player. We'd rather make the jump to Blu-ray than buy new DVD hardware (Sony's Blu-ray 400-disc player looks sweet but way out of our budget, and doesn't help with the gaming consoles).
So, video experts, what are our options? Cost is definitely a factor. I'm about 5 weeks away from becoming a 99er, and my wife recently lost her job. But, being on a budget, watching DVDs and gaming are a large part of our entertainment.
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The old PS3 is what you need IMO. Not just anyone, but (I think the 60gig), which will be a minor chore to find. They stopped making them after a while. It has blu-ray, video up-conversion, PS1 and PS2 up-conversion and compatibility, and kicks butt. I think this is the right console and device for you and if you find it, it will be used and hopefully cheap. This one version of the PS3 has more features than any other PS3 out there. Happy hunting...
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I just took a quick look around fleabay and the net and I think it's actually the 80G version.
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:-)
I don't have one myself, but I think this is about your best option, especially if you are looking for an inexpensive route. The PS3 ain't cheap, but it's probably cheaper and easier than any other option.
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I'm not a videophile but apparently the TV puts out 1080P and 85%+ of our dvds are 1080P blu-ray all I know is they look good.

For the record we setup a Media PC and play everything off the computer. So there isn't much equipment needed. Just tons of 1 terabyte hard drives and a computer with a blu-ray drive.

Not sure if that helps your current situation but down the road it's an awesome way to go.
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Your TV *CAN* do the scaling for you, up to 1080p. It comes down to which you like better - the way your TV scales the DVD or the way an upscaling DVD player or Blu-Ray player scales the DVD up to 1080p.

Forgot about all the numbers and P's - how does it look to you now?
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I just found this converter on Monoprice. It accepts component and outputs HDMI. Only outputs at 720P, but it's an example of one option I was talking about. Ideally, I'd want something that would accept up to three inputs, so I don't have to chain switches and converters.
Mario, SWMBO ain't buying the PS3 suggestion. Thanks for trying, brother! :-)
This model doesn't upscale as far as I can tell (and the Vizio site). The input says 480I/P depending on what's connected.
It looks much better than my old console, of course. I'm just looking to squeeze the best video out of my setup as I can.
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I believe there were three versions that were backwards compatible:
20GB original release
60GB original release
80GB with the serial # ending in CECHE01 (I believe made in 07)
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We have a very inexpensive Toshiba upscaling DVD recorder. Does a very good job making DVD's shine.
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From what I have read the difference between 720p and 1080p on a screen smaller than 42 inches is negligible at best. so if the composite to hdmi converter works as an upscaler that may be the best option for you.

Also +1 for cheap upscaling dvd player if you aren't ready to dive into the blu-ray market. I've seen them for as low as $30 dollars at the sam's, bj's, costco type stores.

as for the ps3, another selling point to your wife may be that it is future proof and can constantly be updated. Mine is from 2007 and a free standard upgrade updated it to being able to act as a 3d bluray player.

good luck
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Today's Woot would do the trick:

http://www.woot.com/

Memorex Wi-Fi Connected Blu-ray Player - $89.99

Netflix, blockbuster built in too.
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True..


Don't bother upscaling.

Wii-PS2-dvd player...no point and you won't notice a difference.

In concern for your future events, save the money and just be happy with a flat screen.
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Thanks for the comments, guys. I think we'll hold off until we're both back to work (or my lottery ticket comes in).
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Just a question so I'm on the same page. Is this post about upconverting?
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Is there a difference between upscaling and upconverting? I've seen them used pretty much interchangeably, even on sites like avsforum.com... :-)
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haha, you're frowny face makes me seem i'm still confused. That's okay. I hope you got your answer
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I thought you thought I was expatriating my numerology, so I wanted to solidify what I was vociferating. Better? :-)
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