A budget priced DVD player, the Philips DVP3960 has enough features to function as the primary player in your entertainment system, yet inexpensive enough to use as a second DVD player in a bedroom, kids' room or kitchen. As well as progressive scan, the DVP3960 offers HDMI digital video and audio connection with 1080i high definition video upscaling. You can upscale your existing DVD movies to 720p or 1080i depending on the resolution of your HDTV.

As with all Philips' current range of single disc DVD players, the DVP3960 particularly impresses in the area of disc compatibility. This machine can handle just about any format disc you care to throw at it. The unit is compatible with DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R and DVD-RW discs as well as standard DVD movies of course. Audiophiles will be able to access audio CD formats including CD-R and CD-RW those loaded with MP3 or WMA digital audio files. Insert a disc encoded with JPEG picture files and the DVP3960 will display your shots as a digital slide show. The DVD player also enables you to view DivX and MPEG4 video content downloaded from the Internet.

Another aspect of this DVD player that impressed us is the unit's ability to read even scratched or damaged discs. We found it manages to play some less than perfect discs that a lot of other players often fail to read. Of course, as you would expect with most DVD players in this price range, the Philips DVP3960 does have some shortcomings. The DVD player lack DTS audio support, an S-Video out connection, and an optical digital audio output. It does offer component and composite video outs as well as HDMI connection, and whether you're upconverting a DVD to high definition or viewing it at standard resolution, the unit offers smooth, high quality performance.

While the design of the DVP3960 is neat and compact, the DVD player does feel flimsy and cheaply constructed when compared to higher end models. The remote control is adequate, although not well laid out. For the budget conscious consumer, however, these are minor complaints. The Philips DVP3960 is a feature rich DVD player with 1080i upscaling, excellent disc compatibility and a price that won't break the bank.


Pros: Inexpensive, HDMI upscaling to 1080i, DivX compatible, Slim, compact design
Cons: Lack DTS audio support, an S-Video out connection, and an optical digital audio output, unimpressive remote control

Warranty
1-year limtied, parts and labor