DVD players come in all types of configurations, including DVD/VCR combos, players that play MP3 CDs, Multi-region players, and DVD players that are also DVD recorders. However, another DVD player configuration that is available is a DVD player that can play both of the high resolution audio-only formats: DVD-Audio and SACD. Check out the latest crop of affordable Upscaling DVD players that also include DVD-Audio and SACD playback capability.
NOTE: If you are looking for a portable DVD player, check out the suggestions from About.com's Portable Electronics site.
1. OPPO Digital DV-980H DVD Player with HDMI and SACD/DVD-Audio
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The OPPO DV980H delivers what it promises. HDMI connectivity and upscaling delivers an excellent picture on an HDTV. Other features, such as SACD, DVD-Audio, and Divx playback, as well as a front mounted USB port for importing images and sound from flash drives, add great audio/video flexibility. If you are looking for a new DVD player to use with an HDTV or Video Projector, and surround sound system, make sure you check this one out. The OPPO DV980H is an excellent all-around DVD/CD/SACD/DVD-Audio player, and is priced less than $170. For a more detailed look at the DV-980H, check out my Short and Full Reviews. Note: The DV-980H has been recently discontinued by OPPO but may still be available through secondary sources - worth seeking out.
2. Pioneer Elite DV-58AV Universal DVD Player with HDMI Interface
The DV-58AV is the currrent top-of-line DVD player from Pioneer (excluding their Blu-ray Disc player line-up). In addition to DVD playback, with 1080p upscaling, the DV-58AV also has excellent playback of standard audio CDs. Also, the DV-58AV also includes both DVD-Audio and SACD playback capability. In addition, DVD-Audio and SACD signals can be accessed via HDMI or 5.1 channel analog outputs. If you are looking for a top-of-line DVD player with flexible connection options and top performance, then consider the Pioneer DV-58AV as a possible choice.3. Denon DVD-2930CI Upscaling DVD Player with DVD-Audio and SACD Playback
The Denon DVD-2930CI is a excellent DVD player, bolstered by its Realta REON HQV video processor, 1080p Upscaling, DVD-Audio, SACD,and Divx playback capability. However, for a DVD player it is expensive ($799 list price), especially since some true high definition Blu-ray Disc players are about half the price. On the other hand, if you have an extensive DVD collection and what to get the most out of it, in terms of video and audio quality, then the DVD-2930CI is a DVD player that may be for you. It is certainly worth a look.
4. Integra DPS-6.9 Upscaling DVD, SACD, and DVD-Audio Player
The integra DPS-6.9 is a single disc capacity DVD player with the ability to play DVD-Audio, SACD, MP3, CD-R/RW, DVD-R/RW, and JPEG photo CDs. It also has outstanding video performance from its 1080p upscaling capability (via HDMI) and its audio circuitry deliver SACD and DVD-Audio sound the way it was intended to be heard. Other features found on this player is the inclusion of the RS-232 interface, which makes it easy to integrate this player into a custom home theater installation asd well as both RCA-type and BNC connections for component video output. Integra products can only be purchased through custom-installation dealers. Consult your local home theater installer for availability.5. Yamaha DVD-C961 5-Disc DVD/CD/SACD/DVD-Audio Changer
If you have an HDTV with HDMI inputs and a decent audio system, check out the Yamaha DVD-C961. This unit offers a 5-Disc carousel loading design, 1080p upscaling and plays DVD, SACD, DVD-Audio, CDs/CD-R/RW/WMA/MP3CDs, VCDs, and is also Divx Certified. The DVD-C961 is also compatible with both NTSC and PAL (Note: It is not Region Code Free out of the box). All the needed analog and digital audio outputs for Dolby Digital and DTS surround sound access are included, as well as an easy-to-use remote control. Although the Yamaha DVD-C961 is higher priced than some 5-Disc DVD/CD changers, it is definitely worth consideration.6. Harman Kardon DVD48 Upscaling DVD Player with SACD/DVD-Audio Playback
Harman Kardon makes great home theater receivers, but they also make great DVD players. The DVD48 is a top-of-line unit that offers both great features and performance. The DVD48 plays standard DVD and most Recordable DVD formats, CDs, DVD-Audio, SACDs, VCDs, CD-Rs, CD-RWs, and MP3-CDs. This player features video upscaling to 1080p via HDMI, as well as both NTSC and PAL output capability for non-region coded discs. In terms of connectivity, the DVD48 can accommodate just about any setup with HDMI or Component outputs, two channel and six channel analog audio outputs, digital optical and digital coaxial audio outputs, and even S-video and Composite video outputs. However, to access 1080p upscaling, you must use the HDMI output connection.7. Yamaha DVD-S1800 DVD/SACD/DVD-Audio Player
The DVD-S1800 plays standard DVD and most Recordable DVD formts, CDs, DVD-Audio, SACDs, VCDs, CD-Rs, CD-RWs, MP3-CDs, and is Divx certified. On the video side, this unit includes Faroudja DCDi processing, Video upscaling to 1080p via HDMI, as well as both NTSC and PAL output capability for non-region coded discs. For analog audio output, the S1800 features Burr-Brown Digtital to Analog converters, and internal DTS and Dolby Digital decoders (if needed). The DVD-S1800 is a flexible universal DVD player that both video and audio enthusiasts will enjoy.8. Onkyo DV-SP506 6-Disc DVD/SACD/DVD-Audio Changer
If you have a little extra cash, here is an interesting DVD player to consider. The Onkyo Onkyo DV-SP506 is a Six-Disc Carosel DVD changer sports a host of features, including DVD, SACD, DVD-Audio, MP3-CD, CD, CD-R, CD-RW, VCD, and JPEG-CD playback compatibility. Bass management for SACD and DVD-Audio is also included, as well as 720p/1080i/1080p video upscaling via HDMI output. Also included is an RS232 port for custom installation control. If you are looking for a versatile DVD changer with good performance, check out the Onkyo DV-SP506.