Faroujda DV1000 vs. Denon 1600 vs. Arcam DV88

I just bought an Arcam DV-89 and it does both audio and video beautifully. The next step up from here would be Meridian. For the money, look at the DV-78 before you consider any mass produced, low-fi consumer-marketed product such as Denon, Pioneer, JVC, etc.

You're right, they're not cheap in any sense of the word. The DV-78 is only $999 new. The DV-89 has progressive scan (which I'm not set up to use. It's for the future.). I believe the 88+ does also, just not DVD-Audio. I bought it as a great CD player which also just happens to play DVD-A and has an outstanding video card. I get close to the best in all of this in one box, so for me, it's a value.