Toshiba's SD-4990 is an inexpensive, feature-laden DVD player that suffers from some aggravating firmware issues. The SD-4990 is a step up from the SD-3990, and for the extra money it offers HDMI up-conversion of standard DVD video. This is a great way to view your existing DVD library at pseudo-HD resolutions, but remember that up-conversion doesn't add any details not found on the original disc. For true HD playback, you need an HD DVD or Blu-ray player.

Curiously enough, the SD-4990 does not automatically detect the HDMI cable, so you'll have to connect the player using standard composite cables in order to access the menu. You can then connect via HDMI. Sadly, this is not the only design flaw on the SD-4990. In order to switch between widescreen and full-screen DVD movies, you have to run through the unit's set-up menu. Needless to say, this is unnecessarily time-consuming.

Disc compatibility on the SD-4990 is impressive. The unit is compatible with home-recorded formats including DVD-R/RW and CD-R/RW. If you download a lot of video content from the internet, you'll be pleased that the SD-4990 handles DivX-encoded material. When the SD-4990 performs properly, it delivers a good-quality picture. Unfortunately, firmware bugs cause the player to freeze up during playback on random discs.

The SD-4990 can route Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1 surround sound through its optical and coaxial digital audio outputs for connection to a full-feature home theater receiver. It also has a Virtual Surround Sound function that replicates multichannel sound effects over a twin speaker setup or even the built-in speakers on a stereo TV.

However, despite the impressive feature set on the Toshiba SD-4990, we found its performance extremely disappointing.


Pros:  DivX compatibility, HDMI up-conversion
Cons:  Buggy firmware frequently freezes, menu required for configuration options that should be automatic

Warranty
90 days labor, 1 year parts