2torial #0724:
Learn2 Shop for a DVD Player

I want my DVD

If you're serious about home entertainment, then you've probably been thinking about buying a DVD player. DVD, which stands for "digital versatile disc," provides quality that looks and sounds better than regular video, is smaller than a laser disc, and will probably dominate the home viewing market in the near future. What's more, the newest generation of DVD players can play your audio CDs as well.

The only problem is, if you're not a technology junkie, the features can be a bit confusing. Luckily, once you're familiar with the main ones, your choice will be a lot simpler. We'll provide you with the information you need to make the wisest decision for your needs and budget.

Don't view a DVD player as a replacement for your VCR just yet. A DVD player offers many wonderful features, but movies are still a bit hard to find, and recording programs from your television isn't yet possible.

Before you run out to purchase a DVD player, you need to assess your entertainment needs. Do you use your entertainment system for viewing your large collection of films and music videos? Or do you just use your VCR to record your favorite television show once a week?

Do you regularly notice the inferiority of the visual and audio quality of your VCR? While it's true that a DVD player will enhance your viewing experience, the most noticeable difference is the sound--and you can only notice this difference if you have a high-quality sound system hooked up to your viewing system. So if you have a television with no stereo hook-up, you might want to upgrade this equipment before making the jump to DVD.