Yamaha's DVD-C950 is an excellent five-disc changer that is compatible with just about every disc format available, including both of the high-fidelity audio formats, DVD-Audio and SACD. The overall audio and video performance of the DVD-C950 is outstanding. The changer's HDMI output provides a superior connection between the unit and a compatible product such as a digital TV or home theater receiver. The HDMI connection maintains signals in the digital domain, eliminating the need for digital-to-analog conversion. The unit even up-converts standard DVD resolution to near-HDTV quality, with 480p, 576p, 720p, and 1,080i output options.

The resulting picture quality is superb. When hooked up to a digital or HD-ready TV, the DVD-C950's DCDi Faroudja progressive scan feature offers 3:2 pulldown and progressive scanning of both NTSC and PAL signals for a superior-quality, film-like picture. The unit also offers plenty of picture adjustments for fine-tuning the images to personal preferences.

In addition to the video performance, the DVD-C950 also delivers excellent audio reproduction from DVD-Audio and SACD. The unit supports CD up-sampling for an improved audio performance on standard CD, and it plays home-recorded discs loaded with MP3 and WMA digital audio files. Whatever your musical tastes, the DVD-C950 will provide solid audio entertainment.

For an improved movie soundtrack experience, the changer can route Dolby Digital and DTS surround sound signals through its optical and coaxial digital audio outputs to a home theater receiver. The DVD-C950 also features a Virtual Surround Sound function that replicates 5.1 sound over a stereo speaker setup. Yamaha's PlayXchange feature allows you to switch out four discs from the carousel while the fifth continues to play, and the DVD-C950 offers a wide array of playback options. This is not an inexpensive changer, but it is definitely worth the money.

Warranty
1 year parts and labor