Best DVD player for the money?

Not sure what ya want to blow on a player, but when I was searching for a great performing DVD player, with the extra added benefit of playing SACD's and DVD-A's (though not spectacular, much better than the CIrcuit CIty equivalent,) I ran across an almost brand-new Pioneer Elite DV-47ai. I think I paid about $600, and its absolutely flawless as far as video performance is concerned. A great player, and can be had for not alot now on the Agon.

My two cents.

Jon BRown

Greetings,
I agree with Dmenagh. I use a pioneer DV-59avi with a sanyo plv-z2 lcd projector. Outstanding in picture and audio. I had read a review recently on a stand off between the pioneer, ayre and a couple others. The pioneer was the cheapest out off the bunch and performed on par with the 8000.00 Ayre, which i believe is based on a pioneer transport. The ayre is regarded as probably the best player on the planet.

As I have a serviceable DVD player now (just a mass-fi Sony), I'm wondering if I wouldn't be better off waiting for HD functionality to come out in force?

Waiting for the next best thing is always something to do, but if you have a need now you should make the decision. Having visited all the trade shows this year (CES, CEDIA, etc.) I don't see HD DVD happening for 1-2+ years for the hardware, and then there is the whole issue of software HD DVD's and availability -- I doubt these will be available in force for 2-4 years. FYI -- the Hollywood studios are making the most money they've ever made with current standard definition DVD's so why would they change to HD DVD's?

I just bought a Denon DVD 1600 used on Videogon, and the video quality is stunning. It has gotten the second highest rating on the Home Theater DVD shootout.
The audio is also exceptionally good, but being a DVD Audio player, it doesn't have a digital out for sound. You have to use six separate ICs to your Pre Pro.
Sonny