Video Playback Performance
The X5000 was able to upscale DVD content via both component and HDMI video outputs, although HDMI also allows 1080p upscaling.DVDs, CDs, Divx discs (both standard and HD), and VCDs all played fine in test sessions. DVDs from various regions, as well as PAL system discs, played consistently and could be viewed on an NTSC-based television. However, the WMV9-HD disc of Terminator 2 was not playable due to copy-protection issues.
Photos and text that were on a USB flash drive were easily accessible via the USB ports.
However, despite the extensive playback options and excellent audio performance, there are factors that limit the X5000's video performance somewhat.
Although color, contrast, and detail are very good with both component and HDMI output settings, testing the unit using the Silicon Optix HQV DVD Benchmark Test Disc, revealed that the X5000 delivered weak performance in terms of jaggie elimination, cadence detection, noise reduction, and moire pattern elimination.
On the other hand, the X5000 does very well on detecting and displaying mixed 30 frame video titles over 24 frame film element video, as well as good overall detail.
Audio Performance
CD material showed no signs of audio artifacts, reproducing the dynamics and frequency range of the recordings used.
A disappointment was the lack of DVD-Audio/SACD playback and 5.1 Channel Analog Audio Outputs. With the X5000 touted as an "audiophile" component, not including SACD and DVD-Audio playback, as well as 5.1 channel analog audio outputs, may make some audiophiles think twice about the X5000 as a true audiophile product.
What I Liked About The Helios X5000
1. Extensive media playback flexibility - multiple disc formats, such as DVD, CD, and Divx files, photo and text files from USB flash drives.
2. NTSC/PAL Compatible - The X5000 can be viewed on both PAL and NTSC system-based televisions.
3. Top-notch Audio Processing; includes both Wolfson D/A converter and Burr-Brown processing circuitry.
4. Direct Wireless/Wired Broadband Internet Access and Networking capability. Ability to stream Internet-based audio, video, and text content as well as the ability to access audio and video content stored on a PC network. Accessing and using the Helios Media Portal was easy using wireless/wireless connection.
The internet/PC-type capabilities of the X5000 are also great for downloading firmware updates directly or via CD or Flash Drive via its USB ports. However, it would be easier to type in urls if provisions for a PC-type keyword were available with the X5000, perhaps via its side-mounted USB port.
5. DVD upscaling via both Component and HDMI outputs. It is rare for a DVD player available in the U.S. market to have upscaling available on both the component and HDMI outputs.
What I Didn't Like About The Helios X5000
1. Unit start up time and response is slower than a standard DVD player - most likely due to its PC-based construction.
2. Small front panel LCD display - With so much space on the front panel it would have been nice to have a larger LED display.
3. Slow reaction time to remote commands. Once again, may be due to the X5000's PC-based platform.
4. Cannot play copy-protected commercial WMV-HD Discs.
5. No SACD or DVD-Audio Compatibility - No 5.1 Channel Analog output option.
Final Take
CDs, DVDs, Divx (both standard and HD) discs, and VCDs play fine, as well as 1,2,3, and 4 DVDs. I had no problem viewing PAL discs on an NTSC-based TV. Note: Code Free Playback may not be available in all markets.
However, the X5000 does very well on detecting and displaying mixed 30 frame video-based titles over 24 frame film element video, and did well in terms of detail, grayscale range, and color rendition.
The Helios X5000 is more than a DVD player, providing extensive playback options with a variety of media, as well as PC network functioning.
The X5000 deserves a top rating with regards to its media playback functions. However, the mixed video playback quality test results, as well as the lack of SACD, DVD-Audio, and 5.1 channel analog audio outputs, are a factor in its overall evaluation.
If you are looking for a device that is compatible with most disc-based video formats (except for Blu-ray and HD-DVD), audio formats (except SACD/DVD-Audio) and interfaces with both your home theater and PC, then check out the Helios X5000.
I give the Helios X5000 a total rating of 4.5 out of 5.
