HELIOS X5000 HD Network Media DVD Player

The Helios X5000 is more than a typical DVD player, providing extensive playback options with 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 test results are a factor in evaluation.

If you are looking for a device that is compatible with most disc-based video formats (except for Blu-ray and HD-DVD) and interfaces with your home theater and PC, then check out the Helios X5000.

Pros

Cons

The X5000 can upscale standard DVDs to 720p, 1080i, and 1080p via either component or HDMI outputs. 1080p can be accessed in conjunction with a TV that has 1080p input capability.

DVDs, CDs, Divx discs (both standard and HD), and VCDs all play. DVDs from different regions as well as PAL system discs played consistently on the X5000 and could be viewed on an NTSC-based TV. However, the WMV9-HD disc of Terminator 2 was not playable due to issues rearding copy-protection compatibility.

Photos and text files on a USB flash drive could be viewed. In addition, the X5000's built-in internet and PC network features allow access to a variety of additional media playback possibilities.

The audio performance of the X5000 was very good with a variety of CD, DVD, and PC-based content.

However, despite the extensive playback options of the X5000, there were some negatives:

1. Unit start up time and response is slower than a standard DVD player - most likely due to its PC-based struction.

2. The Silicon Optix HQV DVD Benchmark Test Disc revealed that the X5000 does not do well in jaggie elimination, cadence detection, noise reduction, and moire pattern elimination.

However, the X5000 does very well on detection and display of mixed 30 frame video-based titles over 24 frame film element, and does do well in terms of detail, grayscale range, and color.

3. The X5000 is not compatible with the SACD or DVD-Audio Disc formats.

A few improvements would make the X5000 almost unbeatable.