The Sony DVP-NC85H/B is one of the few five-disc DVD changers to feature an HDMI output for 720p and 1,080i up-conversion. When connected to a compatible TV via an HDMI cable, the DVP-NC85H/B upgrades standard DVD to pseudo-high-definition levels. Unfortunately, Sony does not include an HDMI cable with the DVP-NC85H/B, so you'll need to factor in the significant extra cost when purchasing this unit.

Keep in mind that while the DVP-NC85H/B and other up-conversion units produce a picture with approximately double the resolution provided by ordinary progressive scan DVD players, this does not add any additional picture details. Thus, while it is superior to traditional playback, up-conversion DVD playback cannot be considered true high definition. It still looks great, however.

The black DVP-NC85H/B is a compact, stylish DVD changer, and it is also available in a silver finish as model number DVP-NC85H/S. The carousel tray loads smoothly, although there is a noticeable lag time when switching from disc to disc. The unit offers excellent disc compatibility, handling recordable DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW and DVD+R DL, as well as VCD and SVCD. Music fans can play discs encoded with MP3 and WMA digital audio files and enjoy hours of uninterrupted music. Similarly, the DVP-NC85H/B can also create a digital slideshow from discs loaded with JPEG images. Sony's Precision Drive 3 system does a great job reading scratched, warped or otherwise damaged discs.

The DVP-NC85H/B offers a virtual surround sound mode for replicating multichannel sound over twin external speakers or those built in to a stereo TV. Dolby Digital and DTS signals can also be routed from the unit to a compatible A/V receiver via the unit's optical and coaxial digital audio outputs.

A universal remote control is included in the package, but its flimsy and delicate feel is not up to Sony's usual solid standards, and it offers only limited control for most TV models. Despite this and some other minor drawbacks, the Sony DVP-NC85H/B performs well and proves to be a good value for an up-conversion DVD changer.


Pros: HDMI up-conversion, can handle damaged discs rejected by other player
Cons: Flimsy remote, slow load times, no HDMI cable included

Warranty
1 year