With its HDMI connection and DVD up-conversion playback, the Samsung DVD-HD960 is a powerful addition to a home theater system equipped with a digital television. This slim component has a deceptively simple front panel, but you will quickly discover that this is anything but a basic DVD player.

In addition to providing 720p and 1,080i output, the DVD-HD960 offers something most up-conversion DVD players don't:  1,080p playback. When linked via the HDMI connection, the DVD-HD960 produces an exceptional picture that takes advantage of the capabilities of the new crop of 1,080p big-screen TVs. The unit also features a Faroudja de-interlacer and a number of other video enhancement functions, all of which work together to produce a top-notch DVD viewing experience.

Keep in mind that up-conversion DVD players like the DVD-HD960 don't display DVD in high definition. If true high-definition movies are what you desire, check out the new Blu-ray and HD DVD players.

The DVD-HD960 is compatible with DVD-Video, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, CD-R/RW and recordable CD containing JPEG, MP3 and WMA files. It can also play DivX files burned to DVD and CD. Note that the DVD-HD960 will not play MP3 or WMA stored on DVD. Samsung has included internal decoding for Dolby Digital and DTS formats, or you can route surround sound data to a home theater receiver via the coaxial and optical digital audio outputs.

Up-converted DVD content can't compete with the ultra-high resolutions of the new Blu-ray and HD DVD players, but it still offers an enhanced experience compared to your current progressive scan DVD player. If you have a digital television capable of 1,080p display, Samsung's DVD-HD960 is a great purchase.

Pros:  1,080p DVD up-conversion, slim design
Cons:  Not compatible with digital audio files burned to DVD

Warranty
90 days labor, 1 year parts