Panasonic DVD-LV50 5 in. Portable DVD Player

OK, if you don't know by now, I will help you out. I admit that I am a technology freak. Aside from working in the computer field as a software developer, I build and overclock my own PCs, and am always messing with my home theater system, and in general anything with electronics. I have had DVD hooked to my TV via video output on my PC for over 2 years now. This was recently replaced with a set top DVD player.(See my review on the Sony DVP-S550D. Excellent player). But even still, I just don't get the need for this product.

First things first, the spec:

Ripped from from Panasonics' website with my comments in bold :

" Widescreen LCD Monitor uses over 280,000 pixels to deliver images in amazing detail.
Remember, this a portable DVD player. This thing is tiny. I question the need for portability, but the monitor on this unit does offer a good image. Now if you want to watch a movie on a 6" (or so) monitor is another question

Up to 3-hours of Playback with Supplied Lithium Ion Battery Pack.
Outputs for DTS? and Dolby Digital? Decoders1 allow for connection to optional dts and Dolby Digital? Decoders for 5.1 channel surround sound audio. Decent amount of time, enough to watch a little over 1 movie
Built-in Stereo Speakers
4:3 / 16:9 / Zoom Screen Selector
Multi-voltage AC/DC Adapter (110V - 240V)
Card Remote Control - credit card sized remote that controls all major DVD player functions. A remote control for a portable? The only purpose could be for using S-Video out to a TV. Face it, you won't be too far away from the screen if using this as a portable
Built-in Recharger Function allows battery to be recharged while attached to player.
Dialogue Enhancer2 increases the center channel volume of a Dolby Digital ? 5/5.1-channel disc, making the dialogue easier to hear during loud scenes.
Advanced Virtual Surround Sound3 creates the surround sound effect using only two front speakers with a wide range from left to right.

Analysis

While the spec is impressive for something this small and light, I question the need for this device. I really don't think people will use this device to watch movies on the road, and the need to be able to hookup a DVD player to a TV anywhere you go is somewhat questionable, and surely limited to a select few. It could make a very next toy if not for the $1100 price tag. Think about it for a minute. since the usefullness of a portable DVD player is suspect, (who really watches DVDs in their eniterty on these things?), the main advantage of portability is having the ability to see DVD anywhere. Since this unit lacks such basic features as Dolby AC3 and DTS decoders, it really can be compared with features to a low end set top box. You could place 5 set top boxes with similar functions in various areas for the cost of this device. Even though the technology is impressive, basic economics make it impossible for me to recommend this unit to anyone.