Toshiba SD-1200 DVD Player

Although the Toshiba SD1200 is an entry level machine, replacing the SD2109, I actually purchased this player as a step up from my JVC player. I had been happy with the JVC, except for the fact that it refused to play DTS movies, even though it was supposed to be DTS compatible.

This new Toshiba model outperforms my old (more expensive) JVC. The video is sharper and more distinct and the Toshiba includes features that the JVC did not. Although the player itself is very light, everything feels solid and well made.

The SD-1200 has a single coaxial digital output (no optical out) and a pair of standard RCA outputs. There are also composite and S-video outputs and ColorStream component jacks. The component jacks will provide the highest quality video, but will only work with newer, more expensive televisions. S-Video is the second best choice and still
provides a big improvement over the composite output.

The SD-1200 can play DVDs encoded in both Dolby Digital and DTS sound. DTS got off to a slow start, but has been coming on lately, with many new DTS movies being released.

Other features include: 540 lines of horizontal resolution (vs 480 for the SD2109), Spatializer? Virtual Surround Sound, 4X picture zoom, X2 Playback, Fast Forward and Reverse (X2, X8, X30), Slow Motion (1/8, 1/4, 1/2), Parental Lock, Time Search, DVD/VCD/CD Playback, DVD/CD Text Compatible

One of my only complaints about the player is the remote. It is very compact, but due to this fact, all of the buttons are very tiny. In addition, the signal strength of the remote is not very good, so you end up pressing the buttons multiple times, and need to make sure you are pointing the remote DIRECTLY at the player.

If you are searching for an entry level DVD player, or are unhappy with your current player and don't need all of the features of the high-end machines, take a look at the SD1200. I have played over 50 DVD's on
mine, without a single glitch or flaw. The video and sound quality are excellent.