We are hard-pressed to think of a budget DVD player that offers more for less than the Philips DVP5960. This single-disc unit is neatly designed, with a sleek finish and slender construction, standing just 1-1/2 inches high. It may not have the expensive heft of a top-shelf model, but the DVP5960 certainly looks the part. And even though the suggested retail price is only $50, the DVP5960 offers plenty of high-end features as well.

For starters, the DVP5960 has an HDMI output for up-converting standard DVD to 576p, 720p or 1,080i playback. This improves the picture dramatically if you have a compatible TV, but keep in mind that it doesn't add any detail not present on the original DVD and isn't considered high-definition. Another great selling point is the front-panel USB port, which lets you listen to music files from an MP3 player or view JPEG images from a digital camera. You can also use the USB port to stream DivX video to your TV.

Overall performance is solid, although it doesn't quite live up to the expectations raised by the DVP5960's specifications. For example, JPEG images displayed on your TV via the HDMI connection look stunning. Unfortunately, it takes 20 to 30 tedious seconds for an image to be completely revealed, as it slowly paints from top to bottom. This is bearable for displaying the occasional image, but the DVP5960 is not a good choice if you want to create lots of digital slideshows. The included remote control is similarly frustrating to use, as it is without a backlight or any basic intuitiveness. These issues aside, the performance of the DVP5960 is generally impressive, especially considering the price.

Some other oversights include the lack of an S-video output, and the DVP5960 does not support DTS surround sound. However, for most users, the HDMI, DivX and USB features make the Philips DVP5960 a great budget DVD player.


Pros: HDMI up-conversion of DVD, USB port, DivX-compatible, slim and stylish design
Cons: No DTS support, no S-video output, poorly designed remote control, buggy JPEG browser functions

Warranty
1 year parts and labor