8. Toshiba HD-XA2

Just as the HD-A2 represented a significant improvement over the HD-A1, so also does the HD-XA2 to the same when compared to the HD-XA1. It's smaller, sleeker, and almost six pounds lighter than the HD-XA1, and that's just the tip of the iceberg. Signal processing capabilities are substantially enhanced, and even include video upconversion from standard 480i DVD content to 480p, 720p, 1080i, or 1080p. Toshiba calls on Silcon Optix for its Hollywood Quality Video (HQV) Reon scaler and processor chip to handle that chore, along with deinterlacing signal sources as well. HQV has a reputation as a premier processor when it comes to handling and massaging digital signals into their best possible forms.

Figure 5: The HD-XA2 represents the current state of the art for HD-DVD players

The MSRP for the HD-XA2 is $999, and the unit plays conventional DVDs, HD-DVDs, and audio CDs. It includes the Ethernet interface that graced first generation models, still used for firmware updates and access to added Internet content for DVDs being viewed. There's even an extension port for additional RAM on the front of the unit, to add to the 256 MB already onboard this device.

As with the HD-XA1, the remote control for the HD-XA2 is also backlit, and adds some new controls to its capabilities. These include a picture control button to deliver ready access to color, brightness, and tint settings along with edge and color enhancement settings. There are three new noise reduction circuits that may be engaged, which include Mosquito noise reduction (NR) to reduce blurring or wispiness around image objects, Block NR to undo blurring and compression artifacts in fast moving objects, and Random NR to lower noise levels overall (all are especially helpful at cleaning up standard DVD content). Demanding HQV benchmark tests deliver impressive results, including high scores on flag, jaggies, and detail tests. Many reviewers rate the HD-XA2 as completely on par with the best Blu-ray players (some of which cost more than twice as much).