For a DVD player with an MSRP of about $100, the Pioneer DV-285-S proves to be an excellent value for the money. This player looks great, delivers above-average video and audio performance, and offers excellent disc compatibility.

The DV-285-S is a slim unit finished in an expensive-looking silver trim. In fact, everything about this player exudes the quality of a higher-end model. The player offers Pioneer's Pure Cinema progressive scan output and 3:2 pulldown for the highest picture quality when connected to a digital TV. Images from DVD movies appear clean and sharp with jagged edges and motion artifacts practically eliminated. The player comfortably handles DVD-R/RW as well as standard DVD-Video.

Pioneer's Disc Navigator feature makes accessing disc content quick and simple. This intuitive on-screen display system allows the creation of a digital slideshow from JPEG encoded picture CD. Once an image is displayed on the TV, the Disc Navigator can adjust the image size, magnifying it by up to 4X, or rotate the image.

The Disc Navigator also lets users play CD-R/RW loaded with MP3 or WMA music files. The DV-285-S offers digital audio outputs so both Dolby Digital and DTS surround sound signals can be routed directly to a compatible audio/video receiver. It provides a Dialog Enhancer that boosts the center channel audio to ensure that the dialog track on a movie DVD stands out from the background music or sound effects.

The DV-285-S is also equipped with a virtual surround sound feature that replicates 5.1 surround sound on a TV's stereo speakers or on a twin external speaker setup. Whatever configuration is chosen, the DV-285-S can be counted on to deliver outstanding audio.

Indeed, while the video performance of the Pioneer DV-285-S is certainly impressive, it is the audio performance where this model really outperforms its rivals.

Warranty
1 year parts and labor