When closed, the Samsung DVD-L1200 portable DVD player looks like an ultra-slim notebook computer. It boasts an impressive 12-1/10-inch TFT LCD screen, yet it still only measures about 1 inch thick with the screen folded. There are few (if any) portable DVD models that can rival either the screen size or image quality of the DVD-L1200.

Of course, with a recommended price tag of $1,000, the DVD-L1200 is one of the more expensive portable DVD players on the market. For those who can afford it, however, the DVD-L1200 is sure to please. The player has a widescreen display, and colors appear bright and rich with excellent resolution. The image can lose some detail highlights during extremely bright scenes, but this is not enough to detract from the overall picture quality.

This portable is virtually skip-proof. Once loaded into the DVD-L1200, DVD are held secure in the locking bay to prevent skipping or freezing up in the hands of a careless youngster or on a bumpy car ride. The picture can even be flipped vertically so the unit can be mounted upside down from the roof of a car. As with many portable DVD players, the DVD-L1200 includes a remote control, although this is one of the few times a portable DVD player actually warrants one. With such a large screen it is possible to view the unit from across a bedroom or hotel room, and the remote proves quite handy.

The player's integrated stereo speakers deliver clear, dynamic sound to match the picture quality. The DVD-L1200 offers three headphone jacks, so practically the whole family can enjoy a movie without disturbing others. The player also has a coaxial digital audio output for Dolby Digital and DTS passthrough. Disc compatibility is good, as the DVD-L1200 handles a variety of formats including home movies recorded to DVD-R/RW, CD encoded with MP3 files, and JPEG picture CD. This is an impressive portable player, and only the price tag prevents it from earning a Best Buy.

Warranty
1 year parts and labor