Toshiba HD-A1 HD-DVD Player - Product Preview

The HD-DVD format is one of two competing high-definition DVD formats that is available to consumers (Blu-ray is the other format, which is backed by Sony). Toshiba is the main backer of HD-DVD. Both systems utilize new Blue Laser and video compression technology to achieve high definition video playback on the same size disc as a standard DVD.

The Toshiba HD-A1 is the entry-level HD-DVD player from Toshiba. Utilizing the HD-DVD format allows for true high-definition (720p, 1080i) playback of new HD-DVD discs. In addition, the HD-A1 can play back standard DVDs in an upscaled setting. To find out more about the HD-A1, check out the rest of this Product Preview.

The HD-A1 not only plays back HD-DVDs, but is compatible with standard DVD-Video, DVD-R, DVD-RW, and DVD-RAM playback as well. In addition, via the HD-A1's HDMI output, standard DVDs can be upscaled to match the 720p or 1080i native resolution of HDTV's, thus providing the best possible viewing experience from both HD-DVD and standard DVDs.

Standard DVD playback is limited to the DVD region where the unit is purchased (Region 1 for Canada and the U.S.). There is no Region Coding for HD-DVDs.

In addition to its video playback capabilities, the HD-A1 can also playback standard CDs, audio CD-R/CD-RW, MP3 and WMA encoded discs.

The HD-A1 also features the new surround sound and two-channel audio processing formats: Dolby® Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD lossless (2-ch.), DTS® and DTS-HD lossless as well as standard Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1.

The HD-A1 has a full complement of audio and video connection options.

High definition outputs include: HDMI (hi-def video and uncompressed digital audio), DVI-HDCP video output compatibility with adapter.

Standard definition video outputs include: Component Video (progressive or interlaced), S-Video, and standard composite video.

Audio outputs include: 5.1 channel analog (for access to the HD-A1's built-in surround decoders), two channel analog, digital optical, and digital coaxial outputs.

Two additional input/output options include an Ethernet Port for access to network or internet content (including possible firmware upgrades), and two front panel USB ports for additional device connection (such as game controlers, digital imaging devices, etc...). Some aspects of these capabilities will be added later via firmware upgrades.

The HD-A1 has easy control, via wireless remote control and onscreen menus, of the following parameters: Aspect ratio, Black Level, Bass Management, 720p/1080i output selection, Resume Play, and any Disc navigation functions that are present - such as subtitles, audio preferences, interactive menu selections, etc...

One control aspect of the HD-A1 that is weak is the fact that it takes a long time (almost a full minute) for the unit to boot up, load, and recognize a disc.

Depending on how studios encode their discs, with regarding copy-protection, high definition output may only be accessible via the HDMI output.

However, if the disc does not contain the complete copy-protection scheme, it may allow high-definition output to be accessible via the component video outputs as well. Whether consumers have access to high-definition output from an HD-DVD player via both the HDMI and Component Video outputs is determined by each studio on a case-by-case basis.

The internal core components of the HD-A1 include: a 2.5 GHZ Pentium 4 processor, 1 GB of DDR RAM, and an NEC HD-DVD PC drive. For a closer look, check out the extensive report and video from Geeks With Blogs.

Availability - Pricing:

The Toshiba HD-A1 is currently available (however, first shipments have been very lean) and it has a listed MSRP of $499. COMPARE PRICES

The Toshiba HD-A1 is the first video component to give consumers access to true high definition programming on a disc. In addition, the HD-A1 is backwards compatible with standard DVDs, as well as most recordable DVD formats, and most audio CD formats, including CD-R/-RWs, MP3, and WMA encoded CDs. The HD-A1 is also the first component to incorporate three new digital audio formats; Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby True HD, and DTS-HD, which can greatly expand the audio performance of the home theater experience.

However, despite all the benefits of HD-DVD and the capabilities of the HD-A1, the decision as to whether to jump in now or wait and see what happens when rival Blu-ray players are introduced this Summer (2006), presents a real challenge to the average consumer.

Questions, such as software availability and format viability over the long term, is a real concern at this point. On the positive side, both HD-DVD and Blu-ray players are totally compatible with the standard DVD format, as well as CDs. However, if, down the road, your HD-DVD or Blu-ray player is no longer useful and the rival format is the only one left, you will not be able to play your HD-DVD or Blu-ray discs on the rival format's machine.

New tech toys are hard to resist, and if you are willing to take the plunge into high definition DVD, despite future uncertainty, then consider the Toshiba HD-A1 as a possible choice. One way to look at it is, instead of waiting, you can be enjoying true hi-definition DVD right how with the HD-A1, especially if you have a large screen HDTV or HD-Compatible video projector. After all BETA was great, while it lasted...