The DVP5982 is another great value DVD player from Philips that combines a host of features in a slim, inexpensive unit. This player offers upscaling to 1080p resolution, the next best thing to owning a HD DVD or Blu-ray player, but without the hefty price tag. The Philips DVP5982 is a step up from the DVP5960, although the major difference is that this model offers upscaling to 1080p as opposed to 1080i.

As well as HDMI output for upscaling to 576p, 720p, or 1080p resolution so you can achieve the best possible picture quality from your library of standard definition DVDs, the DVP5982 offers excellent disc compatibility. The unit is DivX Ultra certified and offers a USB connection so you can view content from a PC, external hard drive or storage device without the need to burn to a disc. This is a really convenient way to access music files and JPEG images as well as DivX content. DivX files playback smoothly whether you access them via the USB port or disc. If you prefer to access entertainment via the latter, the DVP5982 easily handles DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, CD-R and CD-RW format discs, including those loaded with MP3 or WMA music files.

The DVD player offers Dolby Digital and DTS pass through and adjustable audio sync, although it does lack an optical audio output. In addition to that, the player fails to support long file names when accessing home burned content. The other main complaint about the DVP5982 center around the included remote control, which lacks back lighting, feels flimsily constructed and is poorly laid out. The menu system is similarly disappointing, lacking in intuitiveness and responsiveness of other competing players. Other than that, the DVP5982 performs well. The player loads quickly and speedily recognizes content. The USB connection also provides easy access to future firmware updates.

Overall, we found the Philips DVP5982 a great value single disc DVD player that delivers HDMI 1080p upscaling, DivX Ultra playback and USB connectivity for well under $100.


Pros: Inexpensive, HDMI upscaling to 1080p, USB port for accessing digital files, DivX compatible, slim and stylish design
Cons: Poor remote control, clunky menu system, lacks optical audio output

Warranty
1-year limited, parts and labor