Price Paid:  $819.00 from audiophiles.com (I t

Summary:
I had been looking for a progressive scan player to go with my system for a while. AT first, I was going to go with the 45 or 47 model multi-format players from Pioneer. However, reading articles for this player, the feature that made me decide to purchase it is its 16:9 compressed mode. I absolutely love it! Here's how it works: Normally if you have a progressive player and try to play a 4:3 disc on a 16:9 TV, the TV locks into full-screen mode if it's a progressive scan signal, forcing a distorted image. In 16:9 mode, this player compresses the signal before it goes to the TV. The TV stretches it back out and gives you a beautiful 4:3 signal with black bars on the side. The feature is automatic between 4:3 and 16:9 discs (no need to switch out of 16:9 compressed if you play a wide-screen anamorphic disc) although it would not compress on it's own from time to time. I'd have to switch out of 16:9 compressed, and then back in...a minor annoyance. This is my first progressive player, but I'm very impressed with picture quality. A few jagged edges from time to time, but an otherwise awesome source! I have not tested the high def audio or MP3 functions of the player. The player is of moderate weight, but the construction feels solid and has a very smooth feel.

Strengths:
Great picture, solidly built, 16:9 compressed mode.

Weaknesses:
16:9 compressed not fully automatic. Remote not lit.

Similar Products Used:
Pioneer 302