View Full Version : Yamakawa - dvd players
I was wondering if anyone owns one or knows if the Yamakawa name brand dvd players are made of good quality?
spillz564
07-01-04, 04:43 PM
I'm not sure if you're located in the U.S. or not but I tried to get a Yamakawa a couple months back and it was next to impossible to get it sent to the U.S.
For a little bit more money, you can get a V880 from extremephono.com with better support.
Not sure if this helps, but I thought I'd pass along the info...
jrosado
07-01-04, 06:22 PM
Hi:
Very good players for the money. I have one (the 365Divx) connected to my Panny plasma. Great picture. And now there is a new model coming, the 375.
Regards,
J. Rosado
Thanks u 2!
I just orderd a 288KVGA. Looks sweet and seems to be a good unit. I talked to the techs from Yamakawa here in the US and they seem to be very polite and helpfull w/ every question I needed to ask. They were telling me that there failure rate was like 1.5% out of 100 (or something like that, but I am not for sure). To me that sound awsome!!! There warrenty was 100% gurantee in 30 days and1 year parts and labor.
Tell me if you think its sweet for $60.00?
http://yamakawadvd.com/images/Yamakawa/Pictures/Front3D.jpg
http://yamakawadvd.com/images/Yamakawa/Pictures/back_288.jpg
http://yamakawadvd.com/images/Yamakawa/Pictures/Remote.jpg
The 365divx, I wish I could of grabbed due to the upconvert :( , but they told me it was no more
jrosado
07-02-04, 06:36 AM
Yup...it's a nice unit. being outside europe, it's hard to get the 365 Divx and probably the new 375 (wich is very beatufill and as a nice look)
Regards,
J. Rosado
jrosado
07-02-04, 07:04 AM
By the way...i'm considering selling my 365, to get a 375 in a few weeks. I even considerer the possiblity to send it to the USA, if the shipping costs can be reasonable. So anyone interested? PM me..
Regards,
J. Rosado
P.S.: I don't now if i can do this kind of "commercial" here, so if it's not allowed, plese any mod fell free to delete this post.
tonyjur
07-02-04, 06:42 PM
The Yamakawa 288KVGA is readily available in the US for $59.99 plus shipping. Yamakawa also sells through dealers like Surplus Computers in Santa Clara Ca. That's where I bought mine.
My player is region free and code free and plays both PAL and NTSC. It plays PAL and outputs either PAL or converts to NTSC or plays NTSC and outputs NTSC or converts to PAL. I hear that unit is sensitive to heat and it's IR receiving unit can fail, if too hot. Don't put it on top of your Amp or in a closed rack.
It puts out a picture that is better then my Panasonic DVD RP91K player. This is also the first DVD player I know of that allows you to adjust tint or phase of the color in setup mode on component (not composite video) output. It resolves the 6.75 MHZ resolution pattern on the AVIA Disc with ease. I use it now in the interlaced mode through a Faroudja NR 16x9 feeding a Runco 980with 720p.
What is strange, is that my 288KVGA looks exactly like the picture posted by Shift, the remote is diffrent however in that my remote says NTSC/PAL for the button that is labeled RESUME on Shift's picture. My remote also has extra VGA/AV, P-Scan, KARAOKE and other function buttons on the remote. I like it so much I bought two more, at $59.99 a hell of a bargain!
Regards
Tony
pupazzo
07-03-04, 07:53 AM
Do you know the differences between the yamakawa models?I need 720p pal through component.Is it possible?or only through vga?
jrosado
07-03-04, 02:02 PM
Hi:
I think it's possible, altought i never tried. But there is a option for 720p on the component output.
Regards,
J. Rosado
pupazzo
07-03-04, 07:50 PM
720p pal or only ntsc?
I see that Ecost is selling the region free Yamakawa DVD-238 for $35 after $10 rebate on closeout. Anyone have any info on this player? It looks like it could be similar to the 288 without VGA.
The Yamakawa 365 will offer both 720p &720p 50hz (Pal) via component output on the US model and via scart on the EU model
mallu2u
07-04-04, 12:06 PM
So...can these players be compared to players like Pioneer 563A or Denon 910 for its performance..given that they dont have DVI? Both are good quality and can be had for just around $100...I could one of these as interim players.
tonyjur
07-04-04, 01:08 PM
Here is a link that describes the Yamakawa 288KVGA features, that I purchased:
http://www.softwareandstuff.com/CES10328.html
Does anyone know how the Yamakawa lets you adjust color phase or hue on component three wire video? This is the only DVD player or video box that I know of, that has this feature. I use it only in interlace 480i mode since my Faroudja NR can do 720p scaling.
tonyjur
07-04-04, 01:31 PM
Here is an interesting link to the Yamakawa DVD-375 Divx player:
http://www.complix.net/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=720
For sale in Europe now for 180 Euros.
pupazzo
07-04-04, 01:39 PM
So only the yamakawa 375 has 720p pal through component(not scart)?
mallu2u
07-04-04, 01:41 PM
Shift: can you post ur review on this unit when u receive it. I am very interested to know abt its audio and video quality and overall build/stability.
jrosado
07-04-04, 01:41 PM
Hi:
answering to your previous question, there exists a 720p 50, so there is a option for 720p PAL.
Regards,
J. Rosado
Originally posted by pupazzo
So only the yamakawa 375 has 720p pal through component(not scart)?
The Yamakawa has component output on the US model and scart output on the EU model. Both of these outputs will offer 720p @50hz
pupazzo
07-05-04, 02:28 PM
I have only vga or component on my pj.The 365(european model) can play the 720p through vga?
jrosado
07-05-04, 02:42 PM
Yes!
Regards,
J. Rosado
Robert Whitehead
07-05-04, 05:05 PM
The US version of the 375 is DVD-368DiX. See www.yamakawa.de It is sold by "Live Warehouse" but the link did not work when I tried it. Price is $139. US phone is 800-814-9614.
Robert Whitehead
07-05-04, 05:53 PM
I found live warehouse on the web. It sells no Yamakawa products, or DVD players at all. Google search of DVD-368 yielded 0 results. Phone # is live, but got a recording w/option to leave message.
WoW!! Great hits. I did not know if I was going to get any response from this post.
-------
Mallu- I get mine this Thursday, so hang on. Also heat will not be a issue b/c I have mine on a shelf that air vent and ceiling fan is very near it. I will also be running componet w/ my Z1 PJ.
Originally posted by mallu2u
Shift: can you post ur review on this unit when u receive it. I am very interested to know abt its audio and video quality and overall build/stability.
mallu2u
07-06-04, 10:28 AM
great!
Robert Whitehead
07-06-04, 04:34 PM
Talked to US Yamakawa. There are no current plans to bring the 368 (375) to the us. If European sales are good, they might around Xmas time. They don't even know what the model number would be. It can be purchased in Europe, mainly Germany. Don't know price or Euro conversion. Lots of Google listings for DVD-375.
Got my Yamakawa Wednesday, shipped to my work. It was not doubled boxed, but the packaging looked good and stayed together.
Took it home and came with some composite cables, rca cables, remote, Batteries, operation manual and instructions on how to make its region free.
I pulled out the Yamakawa and looked at the cosmetics. First thing I notice that it had scuffs and couple of scratches on the sides of the unit. The plug that covers the optical in the back was out. The unit IMHO looked like it was used. So anyways as I picked it up I heard something little inside the unit rattling around, maybe a small screw or something. Being patient , I still wanted to crank this puppy on.
The unit itself looks sexy and very nice. The dvd drawer while its ejected felt a little flimsy, but not cheap. Unit feels solid, all lights on it powered on the blue color. I hooked it up Component to my Z1 PJ.
I did not get a picture, but I also did not read the manual, but I found out I had to press the remote button that said P-Scan. Boom came on. Nice entry picture on screen. While browsing in the Setup menu, this dvd player has so many toys to adjust. Even selecting speakers to small or large and much more in sound options,Heck it even had a priority setting. Sound menu had bunches of stuff for selections like setting it to RAW, SPDIF, Test tone, subwoofer set, DRC, PCM channel, Dolby Digital setup, cd, Mpeg and much more.
System settings also included options like Dual mono, EQ setting, Yes I said EQ Setting, Bass Boost, Dynamic , Super Bass, Treble Boost!!. Other settings were ProLogic II.
It had a setting for 3D processing for things like Panorama, Dimension, Center Width, Reverb Mode, HDCD to have better sound while in CD Mode.
Has Karaoke settings.
The best , but not least it has picture setting adjustments that you can do like:Sharpness, Brightness, Contrast, Gamma, HUE, Saturation, Lima Display.
I have to say if you are a true Audio hi-fi dude this puppy will offer a bunch of things its has to offer for sound settings!
It has much more stuff that you can ever dream of. This Unit has more things to fiddle with then my old Samsung HD841 or H/K dvd22 units will ever have to offer.
DvD movie:
First thing I did was put in was my Sound&Vision dvd to calibrate my picture. I used both setting from the dvd unit and Z1. I use S&V because I consider it a quickie setup. I do own Avia, But it takes me much longer to calibrate. So after I was done in the picture setting I put in my dvd movie Finding Nemo. Colors were vibe and it was nice. Shadow detail was really nice. I could not believe what this dvd has to offer for 60.00!!!!!!!! You want bang for the buck. You better get this one!!!!!!!
Keep in mind that I found I had some other issues. My search option while fast forwarding or skipping through dvds it kind of paused as if it locked up.
But I was patient and it did work, but seemed so slow.
Remote is very easy to use. I had no problems using it in the dark. Display option on the remote tells you like how many minutes it has till the dvd movie is over, chapter time etc.
I did not test the audio w/ a CD. The sounds from my other dvd movie Final Destination II this unit rocked the house!! My speakers were alive, I think they were moving (just joking).
All in all this Unit is very nice. I did call Yamakawa customer service and explain what issues I had. They in the same day gave me a RMA number, and did ship a new unit. They were very polite and did apologize that they gave me a unit that looked like it was abused or used. They state that they only sell only new units and that the search or FF options should be quick and not act as if it should freeze. As of now I have a tracking number w/ UPS and my new DvD player is on its way, while a pre-paid call tag is in the new dvd players box to ship my old unit I have now back to them. The unit I have now is still work and I can manage. Just that I try not to use the FF or Skip option on the remote b/c it takes a little time.
So I will close with a comment that I like the unit a lot, customer service was awesome and I hope my dvd player that I get will not have any of these issues. Oh also they claim that they will test it before shipping the new unit out to me.
I give this unit 4 out of 5 b/c It does not upscale in Component, but I am able to set my PJ to 1080i and it does look very nice.
Comparing it to my HD841 and DvD22, I feel I got a lot more dvd player for the money that is for sure!!!!!!!!!!!!
Cheers
mallu2u
07-09-04, 11:08 PM
Thanks for the review. Do tell me if the new one fixes the issues u faced. I checked their website and might really look into this player as a stop-gap player. Yamakawadvd.com. Is that where u bought it from? How is their return policy and shipping charges? Thanks.
Mallu, I will post back to confirm if the issues I have been fixed.
There shipping was $14.99 W/ ups.
they send you a e-mail for your tracking number. They shipped my dvd player in less then 4 hours when I paid for it online.
Those guys there were awsome with the service they offerd to me.
BTW, I love playing the dvd player. All the gadgets it has, man that alone make this dvd player feel like a video game :D
But as I stated above Kick A$% dvd player!! Picture is awsome!
Oh DvD+/- R disk played perfect. Media I use is Ridata G04's
MP3 played great also, sub folders were easy to understand.
If I wanted to compare this even to my old El Cheapo Daewoo 5700, this Yamakawa will spank it. The is no Apex or Cyberhome that I ever used will even come close to this Yamakawa.
Hope this help more if you want to compare El Cheapo dvd player. :)
Shift
Thanks for the review. For $75 shipped I might have to pick one of these up, if for nothing else than the time remaining feature, which is lacking in the other 3 players in my system right now.
cjay,
NP...:) Also they have a great return policy, U don't LikeY? U gettY refund ;)
I say, I likey!
for a 75.00 dvd player, the 200.00 Samsung HD841 is a stinker. The H/K dvd22 was nice, but 200.00 vs this 75.00. I'll take the 75.00 player :D
RegionFree and Pal/NTSC convert just rocks!!
It's the region free and PAL/NTSC that really attracts me. I buy nothing these days that isn't, being that I have a huge number of DVDs from other regions.
This may have been answered already, but since I don't want to read through everything, does this player also output PAL 576i/p?
Originally posted by CJayB
It's the region free and PAL/NTSC that really attracts me. I buy nothing these days that isn't, being that I have a huge number of DVDs from other regions.
This may have been answered already, but since I don't want to read through everything, does this player also output PAL 576i/p?
Cjay,
I just went up and tested and I put in my PAL, region 0 dvd movie of Night of the Intruder by Dragon and I put my PJ to 575P and it works. I even switched to 1080i and it worked.
My PAL/NTSC on the dvd player is set on AUTO.
Hope this helps, Also I never knew I can upconvert on a PAL dvd. :) Thanks for letting me know. :cool:
Keep in mind I said 575P , I do not have a 576i/p selection :(
(or maybe you did a typo)
Thanks.
PAL is 576i/p, NTSC 480i/p. I think your PJ is just making the PAL selection a nice round number. Sounds like the Yamakawa will output 576 PAL without converting it to 480 NTSC. My RPTV is strictly NTSC, but I have an iScan HD processor that will accept a PAL signal and convert it to NTSC, and it does a better job than any DVD player I've seen that does the PAL conversion to NTSC (no PAL judder with the iScan and the iScan is sharper when converting the higher res 576 to 1080i than when going 480 to 1080i).
I think I might just have to give the Yamakawa a test drive. I like all the bells and whistles.
biznus97
07-11-04, 01:46 PM
I just received one of the 288s as well. My unit came in excellent condition and I too have noticed that skipping on DVDs does cause the system to pause for a while. I believe that it has to do with how quickly you use the skip button. It seemed to skip chapters quickly the first four to five chapters but then it would freeze for about 8 seconds and then get to the next chapter. I found that if I wait half a second between hitting the button it seems to lessen the pausing. I have not noticed the pausing with the forward button on my unit. I am very pleased with the unit so far (especially for the price). I'm interested in seeing if Shift's new unit still has the same issue with the chapter skipping. If it is a design issue, it is a minor one especially since the unit doesn't actually lock up... Again for 70 bucks I'm very pleased :)
stevemilleresq
07-11-04, 09:46 PM
the picture shows 5.1 analog audio outputs. Does it play dvd-a or sacd?
DaveInBerlinNJ
07-12-04, 10:42 AM
On the website it mentions "Surround-sound output: Dolby Digital and
DTS 5.1-channel pass-through"... it doesn't mention DVD-A or SACD compatibility anywhere.
But that 5.1 analog output really makes me wonder. If this thing did DVD-A I'd order it immediately.
edit: I just asked Yamakawa tech support via email... I'll let you know what they say.
DaveInBerlinNJ
07-12-04, 01:22 PM
OK... just got a response:
********************************
Hi,
This player will play DVD-AUDIO.
It is not a SACD player.
Anthony
********************************
Now THAT'S interesting!
Can anyone confirm that this player does indeed play DVD-A discs???
Please?
Dave
This is very interesting. I also hope someone can confirm, but if not I have one on order that I hope to get by the end of the week and will report back on my findings.
mallu2u
07-12-04, 05:39 PM
CJayB: I shall wait for ur review on the player and abt its quality of DVD Audio.
I'll say this for Yamakawa, they ship fast. Ordered over the weekend, shipped Monday, UPS should deliver on Tuesday. Had to pay California tax, but for that I in effect get overnight shipping by living so close.
I should be able to report back on my findings no later than Wednesday night.
Can the 288KVGA do custom resolutions through VGA? Or even just standard ones like 800x600? Also, how's the deinterlacing?
mallu2u
07-13-04, 09:10 AM
I'm looking forward to CJayB's take on the player now and whether he sees the issues that shift and biznus97 did.
My new one will be here this Thursday. I can't confirm on DvD-A since I have no DvD-A dvd's :( .
Tom_Bombadil
07-13-04, 10:24 PM
Whomever ends up replying to the DVD-Audio issue, please be careful and make sure that the player is not playing the DD5.1 track that exists on many DVD-Audio titles. Just because it plays a DVD-Audio disc is not proof that it supports this format.
I got my unit today and I don't have time to report as much as I'd like right now (it's bedtime) but according to the manual, the unit does play DVD-Audio (the manual specifically states that if there is an option in the menu under Priority that allows you to select either DVD-Video or DVD-Audio, then you have DVD-Audio capability). But I was not able to actually play a DVD-Audio disc tonight.
Many of the features of this unit are options, and the unit being shipped from YamakawaDVD.com has most of the available options, but appears to be missing Scart (obviously) and Prologic II and HDCP capability since the latter two options are not in the menu.
I really only tested the video capabilities tonight, and was impressed for a unit costing $60. I think this is the best DVD player bargain out there right now. Nicely detailed and sharp image, not quite matching the quality of my RP91, but damn close, at least on newer Hollywood films like Superbit Spiderman and Fifth Element and Dark City. On films with more noise in the image, the Yamakawa can't match the RP91, which is very free of noise.
The weakness of the Yamakawa is de-interlacing, no surprise there. I can't open the unit up to see what's inside because it has a security seal on the case that if removed voids the warranty. The warranty is good, 1 year parts and labor, so I guess I'll have to wait a year to satify my curiosity as to what chipsets are inside.
I run all my DVD players through an iScan HD, which has some of the best de-interlacing you can get, so the de-interlacing is not a concern for me, but it may be for many. If you already have a system with a good de-interlacer in a video processor or in your display, the Yamakawa is a real bargain. It does not have any settings for noise reduction, but you can adjust most every other video parameter you could want, including luminance delay, hue, saturation, sharpness (I keep it at the default high setting with no ill effects), brightness, contrast, and gamma. All my settings tonight were set to default except gamma that defaults to off and I turned it to the low setting (out of low, mid, and high settings).
One weird anomaly with this unit is that when watching Meet Me In St. Louis, at the start of the first scene where the camera pans over a rooftop, there was a lot of artifacting in the eaves of the house in every setting I tried out of NTSC interlaced, PAL interlaced, MULTI interlaced, NTSC progressive, MULTI progressive, and PAL progressive with the exception of the PAL interlaced setting, where the image was rock solid. This is strange because I was playing an NTSC disc, but the iScan HD only wanted to process the PAL interlaced signal without artifacts (the HD was converting the PAL interlaced signal to NTSC 1080i). The Yamakawa seems to shinel with PAL output--it was very very close to the PAL output of my modded RP91.
The remote is very responsive on the Yamakawa, and though it is cheap, it's pretty easy to use and comfortable. The unit itself is also responsive with some of the fastest loading times I've seen and nothing beats it for chapter skipping. I had no operational problems (i.e. no chapter skipping pause even when I rapidly skipped through as many as 10 chapters at a time), except for a problem with the Superbit Spiderman that glitched the first time I loaded it (broken images and audio) but played fine when I reinserted it.
Finally, the Yamakawa comes with a sheet telling you how to set the unit to region free. It does not have a setting to turn off macrovision.
Of the numerous DVD players I've owned (around 15 over the last 7 + years), including some higher end models, my prelim opinon is that the Yamakawa can hold it's own and mostly beat any of my other players except the RP91, and except for de-interlacing. But I only had a chance to watch parts of a mix of about 10 PAL and NTSC discs. The Dreamers (from Fox) that came in the mail today would not play on my region free (region 0) RP91 but played fine on the Yamakawa set to region 0.
OK, enough, I've gone on far longer than I planned.
CJayB,
Did you get a chance to try the VGA out? Or are there any specs/settings for what resolutions it'll do through VGA?
Originally posted by Noah
I've seen and nothing beats it for chapter skipping.
See that is where my lacks. :(
Also I was watching a movie last night called Against the Ropes w/ Meg Ryan and Omar Epps and as I inserted the dvd it would not take off. I kept ejecting the dvd and putting it back in the player and nothing happen like 4 times. Then I quickly shut off the power on the Yama and then power'd it back up then put the dvd back in and it played the movie. Remember this is still my ok working player. My new one as I posted above should be here tomorrow. weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!
I'm unable to test VGA capability. I only used component.
mallu2u
07-14-04, 10:04 AM
Pretty positive review CJayB! A lot for 3 AM! Im sure we shall hear more from you and Shift soon.:-)
mallu2u
07-14-04, 10:05 AM
What is iScan HD?
Originally posted by mallu2u
What is iScan HD?
Check here: http://www.dvdo.com/
Good stuff.
mallu2u
07-14-04, 11:18 AM
Wow! Wish I had the money to buy such a product!
DaveInBerlinNJ
07-15-04, 11:14 AM
CJayB,
Does this player do DVD-A???
Originally posted by DaveInBerlinNJ
CJayB,
Does this player do DVD-A???
It says it does. Confirm'd it in my manual.
I don't know when I'll be able to set my player up to try an actual DVD-Audio disc. Unfortunately, my cables are very short with tight locking connectors, which means I have to swap out my current DVD-A player with the Yamakawa to reach my receiver, and in my setup this won't be easy, meaning it's at least a few days away. Hopefully somebody else will be getting one of these soon who can try DVD-A.
Now, just a few more notes on the video quality of the 288K/VGA. The more I use it and tweak my settings, the more I like it, and it's not even burned in yet. I am now of the opinion that the overall video quality will compete head to head with my Panasonic RP91 when using component interlaced output. The RP91 is noted as having among the best interlaced output of any DVD player ever made, so this is saying a lot.
As I mentioned before, some films that are noisier look better on the RP91, but I actually like the look of the Yamakawa better for some other films, including the recently released Girl With a Pearl Earring, which looks too contrasty on the RP91 but looks just right on the Yamakawa. Still early, not a lot of films looked at and I haven't done actual A/B tests between them. I should be able to do the A/B tests over the weekend and report back later. I have two copies of some discs (thanks to a friend) and can switch easily back and forth.
One thing I don't like, among the very few, is that the pause button will only pause. On a couple of my other players the pause button also acts as a frame by frame advance, a feature I really like and miss on the Yamakawa.
As promised I got my replacement Yama dvd player. Cosmetic looks like a new unit :) . I hooked it up to my PJ (component) and the errors I had on my previous unit are resolved. I did have a bad dvd player. This one came FREE SHIPPING (UPS) and also a RMA number and a prepaid UPS label to ship back my defected player back to the manufacture.
I love the way this dvd player handels DVD+/- R/RWs. It has not been no problems what so ever. The skip feature is super fast. It's so fast that it skips to the next chapter w/ a blink of an eye!! PAL settings are set to auto convert from my NTSC .
The RegionFree hack instructions come in the box when you get your player delivered. Easy setup, with the click of some buttons off the remote.
Compare to my $200.00 other 2 dvd players (Harmon Kardon DVD22 and Samsung Hd841) this $60.00 player fits right there w/ them and much more to offer!!
I do like this player a lot. If I had 10 TVs I would buy 10 of these dvd players.
I am happy to say that I got a perfect working player now. I watched XXX and Toy Story. Sound running out to my reciver (tos-link) sounds really nice! Speakers are put to life!! Nothing can touch this unit for its price and performance!! Enough said!! :)
biznus97
07-17-04, 02:03 PM
After hearing about everyone elses success, I decided to do the same. Like the others, all of my issues are fixed on my new player :)
Originally posted by Noah
Can the 288KVGA do custom resolutions through VGA? Or even just standard ones like 800x600?I'm still curious about this.
I'd really appreciate it if somebody could hook up the 288KVGA to their computer monitor (or any other VGA display) and let me know about the resolution and how well it works.
Originally posted by Noah
I'm still curious about this.
I'd really appreciate it if somebody could hook up the 288KVGA to their computer monitor (or any other VGA display) and let me know about the resolution and how well it works.
Ok, I went on ahead and disconnected my dvd player from my PJ and then hooked it up to my 17" 4:3 Dell Monitor.
It set itself to VGA and image was on the screen. I have no idea what resolution it was at. Is there a way to set to a different resolution?
Anyways what-ever resolution it was set on (maybe default) the picture was so clear. The only negative I saw was on the top very edge of the monitor I saw maybe 2 very thin green lines on the very edge of the screen. It was nothing that bother'd me. At the time I was testing out dvd movie " Agent Cody Banks 2".
I went into the settings of the dvd player and there was no setting to set to different resolutions.
If there is a way to set to a different resolution , please let me know how to do it.?
I'm sorry if I was not to helpful, but I will try to help out the best I can.
Thanks,
:cool:
It's too bad the manual says next to nothing about VGA.
All I see in the manual is that the VGA/AV button on the remote sets the output as "VGA"f or CRT monitor or LCD monitor.
Have you tried cycling through the VGA/AV button to see what happens? It appears that VGA only has one resolution.
Originally posted by Shift
Ok, I went on ahead and disconnected my dvd player from my PJ and then hooked it up to my 17" 4:3 Dell Monitor.
It set itself to VGA and image was on the screen. I have no idea what resolution it was at. Is there a way to set to a different resolution?
Anyways what-ever resolution it was set on (maybe default) the picture was so clear. The only negative I saw was on the top very edge of the monitor I saw maybe 2 very thin green lines on the very edge of the screen. It was nothing that bother'd me. At the time I was testing out dvd movie " Agent Cody Banks 2".
I went into the settings of the dvd player and there was no setting to set to different resolutions.
If there is a way to set to a different resolution , please let me know how to do it.?
I'm sorry if I was not to helpful, but I will try to help out the best I can.
Thanks,
:cool:
Thanks a lot for checking this out for me, Shift. Sounds like it does a decent job with VGA, whatever the resolution.
I'm just realizing that figuring out the resolution might not be too easy if the player doesn't just come out and tell you. If you can page through your monitor's OSD, sometimes there's a section that tells you the refresh/scan rates. From that, we should be able to determine what resolution the Yamakawa is producing.
I also downloaded the 288KVGA's manual, and from their description of the setup menu, it doesn't appear that there's any means to control VGA resolution, as CJayB seems to think as well.
biznus97
07-19-04, 11:45 PM
I have my yamakawa hooked up via the VGA to a presentation monitor. The picture is amazing but I don't think you can adjust the resolution it outputs. Also, I had the green lines on my system but once I re-centred my display everything was fine.
Originally posted by biznus97
I have my yamakawa hooked up via the VGA to a presentation monitor. The picture is amazing but I don't think you can adjust the resolution it outputs. Also, I had the green lines on my system but once I re-centred my display everything was fine.
Yea I had the same w/ the green lines on the top. I did not do any monitor adjustments.
NOAH, The only thing my monitor would be able to tell me is the HZ rate, would that help?
alkemyst
07-20-04, 01:22 PM
I bit the bullet and got the 288 as well, I was debating the 238 and it may very well be equally good minus the karaoke, but it just doesn't look as nice...I also think it's not a full sized chassis and like my satellite box would make it a PITA to stack.
I originally wanted a changer in black (the JVC 800/900BK I was looking at), but it seems with a changer I am giving up some other functionality with difficult discs or video quality at sub $150 price points. The aesthetics are great, it's not black, but it's not just silver either.
My main problem now (which was solved with my wife's japanese VAIO laptop acting as the player, but she grew tired of changing resolution and running cables all the time ;) ) is she has / gets Japan discs and we also play discs from Blockbuster. I am sort of glad she wanted to try to use the laptop first or else I'd have bought a player not as good as this one (and I know in Sept. they may even be better).
She likes Karaoke so maybe it will come in handy as it's built-in.
This will be hooked up to a Toshiba CX32G60 set from around 1995-1997 which has a great picture but no fancy inputs, etc.
If you order through amazon.com you pay only 8.99 shipping (standard) whereas direct you will pay $14.95...I choose direct as my last order through amazon got butchered and I was told it went through a middleman first and they dropped the ball. Your call it's $59.99 direct or there from yamakawadvd.com. Amazon also offers expedited shipping...it's odd as it still comes from the same place, but I have no idea on it.
Quick phone response from yamakawadvd.com at 1pm EST which is also a plus for me. I waited less than a minute for a pickup....I am used to 5-10mins at this time anywhere.
Å
SwedeDan
07-20-04, 02:46 PM
You can get a 288k for $42 after rebates, plus $5 handling fee: http://www.ecost.com/ecost/ecce/shop/detail.asp?dpno=466570
I went past the yamakawadvd.com office in Santa Barbara a few weeks ago. Looked kind of new :)
alkemyst
07-20-04, 03:09 PM
I was on ecost and search for yamakawa and only the 238 came up at the time....don't know what happened there, but I could have saved $30.
Originally posted by SwedeDan
You can get a 288k for $42 after rebates, plus $5 handling fee: http://www.ecost.com/ecost/ecce/shop/detail.asp?dpno=466570
I went past the yamakawadvd.com office in Santa Barbara a few weeks ago. Looked kind of new :)
Wow!! Kick a$% price!!!
I wish I got mine for that price. heh..
Either way you win. Even if this dvd player was for 100.00 well worth it!!
I choose to buy direct, b/c the rep named Anthony told me even with'in the year I own mine and IF I have any issues, they will not fix mine, but will send me a brand new one. So I agreed to the deal and purchased. As I said above, I have had a excellent experience with Yamakawa direct. They have quick and excellent customer service.
Amen!! :cool:
mallu2u
07-20-04, 11:51 PM
Originally posted by Shift
Wow!! Kick a$% price!!!
I wish I got mine for that price. heh..
Either way you win. Even if this dvd player was for 100.00 well worth it!!
I choose to buy direct, b/c the rep named Anthony told me even with'in the year I own mine and IF I have any issues, they will not fix mine, but will send me a brand new one. So I agreed to the deal and purchased. As I said above, I have had a excellent experience with Yamakawa direct. They have quick and excellent customer service.
Amen!! :cool:
Shift: I agree with your choice. $20 more but far more peace of mind.
Hi, what's the deinterlacing chip that this player uses?
Has anybody taken a 375 model into the USA?
THANKS!!!
Originally posted by Shift
NOAH, The only thing my monitor would be able to tell me is the HZ rate, would that help?
No, that's not much help. I assume its 60Hz, anyway. What we need is the scan rate, which is in kHz.
biznus97
07-21-04, 04:18 PM
Noah,
I get 31khz on my presentation monitor.
JGDragov
07-22-04, 06:16 PM
I read in a product description for this player, not on Yamakawa's site, that it provided an "excellent image for computer monitors and LCD projectors" via the VGA output.
I have a DLP projector that I will be connecting to the 288 through the VGA input. Will there be a difference in the unit's image quality on a DLP as opposed to and LCD PJ? Does anyone have this unit hooked up from the VGA to a DLP front PJ?
Guys,
I downloaded the owners manual for the DVD-288K/VGA and I must say this player truly has everything I'm looking for except the ability to upconvert to 720p or 1080i. Since this is a Sigma chip based player and allot of the other Sigma player have secret menu for custom resoluctions, is there any chance this player may have a secret menu.
By the why, does the DVD-368DvX or DVD-375 have the same video adjustment as the 288 (brightness, Contrast, Gamma, Sat, and hue)?
I may be visiting Darwin Australia soon, any chance I could pick up one of the newer player there since I can't find a valid souce in the U.S.
Thanks
Andre :)
PS: My display is a Ampro 3600, 8" CRT FP.
Originally posted by biznus97
Noah,
I get 31khz on my presentation monitor.
That's 480p...the horizontal resolution is probably 640 or 720. Too bad its not 800x600 or so. Actually, too bad it doesn't do custom resolutions, so far, anyway.
mallu2u
07-22-04, 10:29 PM
Originally posted by Fraza
Guys,
I downloaded the owners manual for the DVD-288K/VGA and I must say this player truly has everything I'm looking for except the ability to upconvert to 720p or 1080i. Since this is a Sigma chip based player and allot of the other Sigma player have secret menu for custom resoluctions, is there any chance this player may have a secret menu.
By the why, does the DVD-368DvX or DVD-375 have the same video adjustment as the 288 (brightness, Contrast, Gamma, Sat, and hue)?
I may be visiting Darwin Australia soon, any chance I could pick up one of the newer player there since I can't find a valid souce in the U.S.
Thanks
Andre :)
PS: My display is a Ampro 3600, 8" CRT FP.
A secret menu...that would certainly be interesting..owners of yamakawa...please do some snooping around :) Maybe the momitsu secret menu works for this player? Shift: Maybe where u saw this first may contain this info?
I just noticed that eCost shows this in the 288KVGA's specs (http://www.ecost.com/ecost/shop/detail.asp?action=detail&dpno=466570#scroll):
VGA output with 720x576 PAL / 720x480 NTSC
So I guess it just outputs the exact 1:1 DVD resolution over VGA. Its unfortunate...assuming this is a sigma-based player, the upconversion would be pretty decent.
jrosado
07-23-04, 06:41 AM
Originally posted by Fraza
Guys,
By the why, does the DVD-368DvX or DVD-375 have the same video adjustment as the 288 (brightness, Contrast, Gamma, Sat, and hue)?
I may be visiting Darwin Australia soon, any chance I could pick up one of the newer player there since I can't find a valid souce in the U.S.
Thanks
Andre :)
PS: My display is a Ampro 3600, 8" CRT FP.
Hi:
The 375 and 365 have adjustments for color, contrast and brigthness. As for secret menus with custom resolutions, they to exist in the 365 and 375. They are acessible in the DVI output option.
Regards,
J. Rosado
fourizonly
07-23-04, 01:03 PM
Hi,
Does anybody own the DVD-238? How does it compare to the 288K? I know 288K has the LED display, Karaoke function, VGA output, and JPEG slideshows, but will the picture be much better than the 238?
All I need is a decent region free player because I already have a Panasonic XP50.
Thanks. :D
Bill Broderick
07-23-04, 01:27 PM
Originally posted by Shift
Took it home and came with some composite cables, rca cables, remote, Batteries, operation manual and instructions on how to make its region free.
My Yamakawa from e-cost did not containt he instructions on how to make it region free. Can you please post those instructions? Thanks.
Bill Broderick
07-23-04, 01:30 PM
Originally posted by fourizonly
Does anybody own the DVD-238? How does it compare to the 288K?
I have them both. I got the 238 a few days ago and received the 288 today. I've only watched a couple of quick things on the 238 so far and have only looked at the 288. For me, the front panel display alone makes the 288 worth the $10-15 extra that I paid for it over the 238.
fourizonly
07-23-04, 01:56 PM
Deleted..check your pm
Guy,
I would love to find a DVD Player that has the video adjustments like the 288K/VGA (Brightness, Contrast, Sat, Hue, Gamma, Luma) and can do custom resolutions and scaling via DVI or VGA. Since I own a 8" CRT FP the more video setting the better for setting proper greyscale. I have the Momitsu V880 and it's very nice but the 288K/VGA is a tweaker paradise. If only it could scale and do custom rez. Anyone know of such a player? If so please let me in on the secret.:(
Guy,
I would love to find a DVD Player that has the video adjustments like the 288K/VGA (Brightness, Contrast, Sat, Hue, Gamma, Luma) and can do custom resolutions and scaling via DVI or VGA. Since I own a 8" CRT FP the more video setting the better for setting proper greyscale. I have the Momitsu V880 and it's very nice but it only has Brightnes, Contrast, and Saturation video setting. A gamma setting is what I really need and several other CRT members have been asking and searching for the same. The 288K/VGA is a tweaker paradise, if only it could scale and do custom rez. Anyone know of such a player? If so please let me in on the secret.:(
Thanks
Andre
matthew_avs
07-25-04, 11:21 PM
Originally posted by Bill Broderick
My Yamakawa from e-cost did not containt he instructions on how to make it region free. Can you please post those instructions? Thanks.
(from softwareandstuff.com/CES10328.html, mentioned previously in this thread.)
SETTING OF REGION CODE FOR YAMAKAWA 288k/VGA
Step #1: Power On the player. Be sure there is no disk in the player
Step #2: Press the SETUP key on the remote control
Step #3: Go to the General Preference Group Setup (press right key 3 times)
Step #4: Press the keys "1379" slowly one after the other.
Step #5: A new window (Overlay) will show the current region code
Step #6: Select the desired region code with the “up” or “down” key
Step #7: Press PLAY to confirm your selection
Step #8: Press SETUP key to exit.
tonyjur
07-26-04, 02:02 AM
Bill Broderick.
In Step #6 above, set region to "0" with up key and the 288 will play all regions automaticaly.
I could not find a secret menu. Has anyone found it yet?
I gave up after 3 minutes. It can be anything. Boy a lot of buttons :(
mallu2u
07-26-04, 10:19 AM
Originally posted by Bill Broderick
I have them both. I got the 238 a few days ago and received the 288 today. I've only watched a couple of quick things on the 238 so far and have only looked at the 288. For me, the front panel display alone makes the 288 worth the $10-15 extra that I paid for it over the 238.
Tell us what your thoughts are on the difference b/w the players...
alkemyst
07-26-04, 09:04 PM
Just got mine tonight....I think the lack of a double box is a little lame esp via UPS which is not very package friendly in my area.
The unit powers on, the screen saver comes up and I can use the menus, however; no discs will load.
CD's will make a couple hissing sounds through the speakers (faint) as the player says "Loading" then it will go to No Disc.
MP3's and DVD's will keep trying to load but nothing but the faint hissing sounds happen. I need to call yamakawadvd.com tomorrow....
oh well.
Originally posted by alkemyst
Just got mine tonight....I think the lack of a double box is a little lame esp via UPS which is not very package friendly in my area.
The unit powers on, the screen saver comes up and I can use the menus, however; no discs will load.
CD's will make a couple hissing sounds through the speakers (faint) as the player says "Loading" then it will go to No Disc.
MP3's and DVD's will keep trying to load but nothing but the faint hissing sounds happen. I need to call yamakawadvd.com tomorrow....
oh well.
Yea, you better call them. Sounds like you got my old dvd player :o
But they will send you a replacement free of charge and also they will pay to ship the bad one back. Keep in mind that they will test the 2nd unit themselves. Also all the errors can be because of shipping it and the way UPS handels there packages. Sad, but it happens:mad:
Good luck and sorry about the probs you received w/ your unit. :eek:
-Also just keep in mind, once you get one that operates right, I really does kick some major butt!! I love my replacement.
alkemyst
07-27-04, 07:58 PM
Great guys at Yamakawa, before I was even off the phone they had the RMA email to me. Now the way it works is great. You jot down the specifics of your order/unit, email it to them, they send you a new one out that has been tested. You keep all your cables and remotes, etc.
They include a return label with the new unit, just place it on your box and that's it.
I am so glad I didn't order from eCost now. That $27 savings would have been a headache. Electronics that can be damaged I try to avoid UPS on....it I can't I order from the most reputable company possible for return handling...just in case.
Thanks!
fourizonly
07-27-04, 11:28 PM
Anyone ever compared the Yamakawa DVD238/288 and the Philips DVP642? I've heard many praise about the DVP642, but it didn't do too well at the July DVD shootout. I am looking for a sub $100 region free player. Any feedback appreciated.
Originally posted by fourizonly
Anyone ever compared the Yamakawa DVD238/288 and the Philips DVP642? I've heard many praise about the DVP642, but it didn't do too well at the July DVD shootout. I am looking for a sub $100 region free player. Any feedback appreciated.
Nope, But I did use to own a Phillips Q50 which had a DCDI. All in all Q50 is nice, I did not say better.
288 has more abilities, region hack, all the tweeks it has to offer from a DvD movie to Audio disks. Just see it for yourself. What's a 60.00 dollar risk? You don't like, then return.
288 is plain out sweet!!!!! I feel that it has the quickest search mode ever!! Starts up super fast and colors are really nice. No negatives what so ever.
I just watched HellBoy on a 120" screen. Damn, love that player!!:cool:
I have to agree with Shift that the the 288k/VGA is a great player. It does however have one big negative, shared with every low cost DVD player I'm aware of, and that is the de-interlacing, as I've mentioned previously. If you're watching a DVD that is properly flagged, the Yamakawa is stunning. But you are going to find de-interlacing artifacts with many DVDs. In fact, a very large number of PAL DVDs are plagued with poor de-interlacing. If you can live with that, this is among the better DVD players out there, at any cost. Of course, if you are using the interlaced output of the Yamakawa, you don't need to worry about de-interlacing.
The other slight negative I would mention for the Yamakawa, again shared with every low cost DVD player I've seen. is a slightly higher noise level than some of the higher cost players (including my Panasonic RP91). But this is usually only noticeable on DVDs that have an elevated noise level to begin with. And the noise level of the Yamakawa is actually lower than most DVD players I've seen, including my much more expensive Momitsu V880.
Like Shift said, the search mode, and operational speed in general with the Yamakawa, is extremely fast. Color output is spot on, to my eye. Extremely sharp and 3-dimentional picture without looking processed or edgy like some players that put out a sharp image. The Yamakawa is, all things considered, amazing for around $60.
fourizonly
07-28-04, 10:46 AM
Thanks for the replies guys. I just hope the 238 is as good as the 288k/VGA. :)
mallu2u
07-28-04, 11:52 AM
CJayB: What does "poor de-interlacing" mean? I have heard this term a lot of times but am not sure if I understand it fully.
Originally posted by mallu2u
CJayB: What does "poor de-interlacing" mean? I have heard this term a lot of times but am not sure if I understand it fully.
here is a example of it: http://www.100fps.com/
----------------
Also I am set-up on Component and Progressive Scan. Above in the link, I do not see those issues.
:cool:
Originally posted by CJayB
I
The other slight negative I would mention for the Yamakawa, again shared with every low cost DVD player I've seen. is a slightly higher noise level than some of the higher cost players (including my Panasonic RP91). But this is usually only noticeable on DVDs that have an elevated noise level to begin with. And the noise level of the Yamakawa is actually lower than most DVD players I've seen, including my much more expensive Momitsu V880.
CjayB,
What do you mean by noise level?
Are you talking about the player spinning the dvd-movie?
If that is what your referring to, I do not hear nothing. :) Quite as a dead rock
alkemyst
07-28-04, 12:33 PM
Which outputs are deinterlaced/interlaced? I only know about standard (old fashioned ;) ) TV's like my Toshiba I am running with S-video.
airduct
07-28-04, 02:46 PM
shift,
even though this does not upconvert to 1080i and such, are the pq just as good as the highly touted dvb318? i have an x1 and wondering which one to get...thanks
Originally posted by airduct
shift,
even though this does not upconvert to 1080i and such, are the pq just as good as the highly touted dvb318? i have an x1 and wondering which one to get...thanks
Will since my Z1 does upconvert to 1080i (since its HD) and my DvD player does not. I cannot tell the difference w/ higher or hummm more expensiive units like the DvD2, hd841 or Q50 that does not do it any better. I never seen the 318 in action. But for 100.00 less I am sure the Yamakawa will stay with it w/o a doubt.
I think the 318 will benefit those whom do not have a PJ or TV that can upconvert to 1080i.
I think the X1 does offer 1080i, so why not the 288 for 60 bucks!! Save yourself the extra 100.00 and go buy some DVD movies :)
Originally posted by alkemyst
Which outputs are deinterlaced/interlaced? I only know about standard (old fashioned ;) ) TV's like my Toshiba I am running with S-video.
S-video should do both. I perfer Interlaced
Originally posted by Shift
Will since my Z1 does upconvert to 1080i (since its HD) and my DvD player does not. I cannot tell the difference w/ higher or hummm more expensiive units like the DvD2, hd841 or Q50 that does not do it any better. I never seen the 318 in action. But for 100.00 less I am sure the Yamakawa will stay with it w/o a doubt.
I think the 318 will benefit those whom do not have a PJ or TV that can upconvert to 1080i.
I think the X1 does offer 1080i, so why not the 288 for 60 bucks!! Save yourself the extra 100.00 and go buy some DVD movies :)
Never heard of the Z1 being able to upconvert the image of a dvd to 1080i. The projector can accept and display that resolution, but it doesn't do any upconverting on it's own. You will need a dvd player or video scaler which can upconvert for you.
DaveInBerlinNJ
07-28-04, 04:11 PM
X1 does NOT do 1080i. It can accept a 1080i signal, but it does not DISPLAY 1080i.
The Yamakawa is certainly not going to be as good as the Zenith 318... but on an X1, you may not notice much/any improvement.
Why? Precisely because the X1 can't display 1080i... and as the X1 already has a built in Faroudja processor, this would tend to negate the Zenith's advantage over non-Faroudja DVD players (like the Yamakawa) when paired with an X1.
That's the theory... you might want to search to see if anyone with an X1 tried it with a Zenith 318. I'm sure someone has tried this combo by now.
edit... and the Z1 doesn't do 1080i either, it's not HD.
a quick search on x1 and zenith, voila:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=396991&perpage=20&highlight=x1%20Zenith&pagenumber=1
Originally posted by Reem
Never heard of the Z1 being able to upconvert the image of a dvd to 1080i. The projector can accept and display that resolution, but it doesn't do any upconverting on it's own. You will need a dvd player or video scaler which can upconvert for you.
Well I should of been a little clearer. But what i am saying is even if the 318 does do 1080i, its just simply a waste. Since a DvD movie is 480p/i why do it? Its not really doing a 1080I resolution. :eek:
Also others reported that the 318 in 1080i says they see no big difference. Believe me, I was about to budge on the 318, but did not want to due to them that reported there thoughts...
Originally posted by DaveInBerlinNJ
edit... and the Z1 doesn't do 1080i either, it's not HD.
a quick search on x1 and zenith, voila:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=396991&perpage=20&highlight=x1%20Zenith&pagenumber=1
Well I use to own a HDTV decoder t150 (samsungY), put the decoder to 1080i and my Z1 the 1080i and my lord what HD I did see!!:cool:
See page #2 http://www.studioexperience.com/support_files/se1hd-000.pdf
DaveInBerlinNJ
07-28-04, 04:45 PM
Sorry... you did not see HD. You saw HD downconverted.
The Z1 can accept an HD (1080i, 720p) signal, but it can NOT display it at FULL RESOLUTION. It simply doesn't have the capability.
I'm not saying it wasn't a good picture. It just wasn't HD. There is a difference.
Originally posted by DaveInBerlinNJ
Sorry... you did not see HD. You saw HD downconverted.
The Z1 can accept an HD (1080i, 720p) signal, but it can NOT display it at FULL RESOLUTION. It simply doesn't have the capability.
I'm not saying it wasn't a good picture. It just wasn't HD. There is a difference.
Oh well, can't argue man.
Seen some HD stuff at circuit City, then seen mine. I see no difference. All in all my pic is great stuff. Then again, it's all good in my books
alkemyst
07-28-04, 05:09 PM
On the interlace / deinterlace issue.
I have a Toshiba CX32G50 can it do either as well? How would I set it to display best from the Yamakawa?
Originally posted by alkemyst
On the interlace / deinterlace issue.
I have a Toshiba CX32G50 can it do either as well? How would I set it to display best from the Yamakawa?
Set the Yamakawa to Progressive. There is a button on the remote for that, the button is called P-Scan, or you can go into the setup and select P-scan or interlaced in the video option screen in the setup menu.
Hope this helps.
alkemyst
07-28-04, 07:39 PM
I tried p-scan and got the black screen...I will try again once my new unit comes on tuesday next week.
barry626
07-28-04, 08:01 PM
Does the Yamakawa - 288KVGA DVD Player support 3:2 Pull Down?
"What do you mean by noise level?
Are you talking about the player spinning the dvd-movie?
If that is what your referring to, I do not hear nothing. Quite as a dead rock"
Shift, I'm referring to video noise level here, especially the type of noise you'll see in dark scenes in a lot of films. Mechanically speaking the Yama is very quiet, another big plus for this unit.
And even as to video noise level, I think the Yama is quite good, just not up to the big boys that have good noise reduction circuitry and better DACs. For example, with the Superbit DVD of Spider-Man in the scene between Tobey Maquire and Kirsten Dunst talking just before she runs off through the alley to her boyfriend with his new car, Tobey is standing in front of a wall. With the Yama you see video noise pulsing on the wall (not a lot, but it is there) and with my Panasonic RP91 there is still noise, but it is almost completely gone, and most films look just slightly cleaner and more filmlike with the Panny. Part of the noise might be created by the slightly sharper picture the Yama puts out over the Panny.
In comparison though to my Toshiba SD4900 (a fairer comparison due to the sub-$90 cost of the Toshiba before it went out of production), which has a basic Digital Noise Reduction control, the Yama is much cleaner even without DNR.
Marco T
07-28-04, 10:08 PM
Is there a black Yamakawa model that has VGA out, component out and reads all the media out there. I am thinking of replacing my JVC SA-70BK. DVD-audio would also be nice ;)
alkemyst
07-28-04, 10:17 PM
There is a black model for almost every silver.
However they are outside america so it's hard to get here...next to impossible really unless you work it.
They have a website mentioned that shows them all.
fourizonly
07-28-04, 10:50 PM
I just got my 238 today and was very satified with the picture. :D Can anyone tell me their audio settings? I'm puzzled with the terms on this player.
SPDIF Output - Manual?
Dolby Digital - SPDIF/RAW or SPDIF/PCM?
DTS - SPDIF/RAW or SPDIF/PCM?
I'm using the 238 mainly as a region free DVD player, I won't be using it for audio. I have a XP50 for viewing R1 discs. The player is connected via component and digital (coax) to receiver. Any input is greatly appreciated.
Thanks~
Marco T
07-29-04, 01:15 AM
Is the Yamakawa 288 just a cheaper Momoitsu 880? It seems to have the same features, and the same chipset... Pending equal firmwares, of course.
The Yama does not have the upscaling feature of the Momitsu, or DVI output. The Momitsu does not have DVD-Audio, doesn't have VGA, and does not have nearly as many sound and picture settings you can adjust as the Yama (and they have different user interfaces). Supposedly the Yama has the same Sigma chipset, but that is where the similarities end. The Yama at 480i/p has much better video quality than the Momitsu. But the Momitsu at 720p or 1080i looks better than the Yama at 480i/p.
Fed through my iScan HD processor, where both the Yama and the Momitsu can be scaled to 1080i output (to make it a fair fight), the Yama wins the battle for both sound and picture quality.
Having said all that, if I could own but one DVD player, and didn't have an external processor like my iScan HD to do the upscaling, and had a display capable of resolving 720p or 1080i, then I would own the Momitsu even over DVD players costing several times as much, just because it will play both NTSC and PAL discs from any region and properly scale 4:3 DVDs without stretching, so it is the only player that can properly play and upscale every DVD I own. The Yama can also play every DVD I own, but I would miss the upscaling with the Yama.
airduct
07-29-04, 04:34 PM
dave,
thanks for the info...i've read those threads and they all extol the x1 + dvb318 combination. i understand that the x1 does not do 1080i since it is only 800x600, but some posts state that the upconversion of the dvb318 and the downconversion of the x1 combined to generated a great pq...and off course, there are posts that say this is all bs and that the x1+dvb318 looks like any other progr. scan combon... oh well, i'll probably pick up the yama since it is so inexpensive. thanks again for the info
Marco T
07-29-04, 05:05 PM
CJayB,
Thanks for the throurough write up. I still think it is a question of firmwares to get custom resolutions out of the VGA port for the 288. I would really like to get 1024*768, to match my BenQ 6200.
I can always wait for the Yamakawa 375, which might be coming out in the states...Its on the website:)
Divx, upscaling, custom resolutions, dvi, the whole enchilada for less than 150US...
If I can find either of them in black, I'll bite!
mallu2u
07-29-04, 05:18 PM
cJayB: What does "incorrect progressive" flagging mean? I saw that you mentioned is somewhere but am not sure what it really means and how does one detect it.
Originally posted by fourizonly
Thanks for the replies guys. I just hope the 238 is as good as the 288k/VGA. :)
I received my 238 two days ago from E-Cost. Shipping was prompt and
unit was well packed with outer carton. I don't own a 288 but it appears to have all the functionality of the 288 minus the display and the VGA output.
I checked it out with Video Essentials, seems very close to dead on out of the box. The PQ seems very good and the build quaility is not bad considering the price.
Compared to my Toshiba SD-4900, I would say the 238 holds its own in
every respect except perhaps the styling. Responsiveness is very good,
I would say better than the Tosh. Also, it played a video CD that the Tosh
would not touch.
All in all, I would rate it an excellent buy.
Alex solomon
07-31-04, 01:46 AM
I have read every post on this thread. While there are a few reviews and opinions on the video quality of this player I find that many of you have not commented on the sound quality. How does the sound quality compared to other good DVD players( Denon1600, Zenith 318, HK DVD 22 etc...)?
absolutic
07-31-04, 11:19 AM
Originally posted by jrosado
Hi:
answering to your previous question, there exists a 720p 50, so there is a option for 720p PAL.
Regards,
J. Rosado
If 375 is going to upconvert like 365, I assume it will come out with a SIGMA Chip. Will it still have a last year's 8500 chip or it will move to a new chip? Interesting....
Originally posted by absolutic
If 375 is going to upconvert like 365, I assume it will come out with a SIGMA Chip. Will it still have a last year's 8500 chip or it will move to a new chip? Interesting....
I am curious if anybody has opened a 288 or 238 to check the chip that is
used. I took a look at the Sigma website and their latest chips, the 8610
and the 8620 do motion adaptive deinterlacing.
jrosado
07-31-04, 05:12 PM
Hi:
yamakawa technical support told me that the 375 still use the Sigma8500. However there are some functions available (Ogg vorbis support) that i thought the 8500 did not support...
Regards,
J. Rosado
absolutic
07-31-04, 07:10 PM
Originally posted by jrosado
Hi:
yamakawa technical support told me that the 375 still use the Sigma8500. However there are some functions available (Ogg vorbis support) that i thought the 8500 did not support...
Regards,
J. Rosado
oh all right then. I already have a dvd player with Sigma 8500 chip (Liteon LVD2001) that does the upconversion so I will skip on this one. Although I am sure it is an excellent machine.
PS I was also under the impression that SIgma 8500 chip could not do OGG Vorbis.
Alex solomon
07-31-04, 07:38 PM
Any comment on sound quality guys???
Originally posted by Alex solomon
Any comment on sound quality guys???
lots of mods you can do as for sound in the setup menu.
It has various setups like:
Downmix - which switches dvd or rear signal components like LT/RT, stereo, V SURR or OFF
Front Speakers, Rear, Center, subwoofer - function allows to set to small or Large or subs on or off (just like a receiver has)
Or functions in sounds are: Test Tone, Dialog, Post DRC (adjust post dynamic range compression function to different compression results) , SPDIF, DTS , MPEG, PCM Channel, LPCM OUT, Dual Mono, Dynamic, LS, RS, EQ TYPE, BASS BOOST, SUPER BASS, TREBLE BOOST, 3D processing, HDCD & Reverb mode.
Now with these kind of selections I am sure you will find a sound that you are looking for. As for out of the box, sound was good. I did not hear no dialog being soft or not as loud compared to my old HK DvD22 dvd player. They are really close.
Out of the box it sounds nice. Movies are clean and I hear no hissing or delays while watching a movie or listening to a CD. I run optical.
alkemyst
08-03-04, 11:11 PM
Finally got mine today...painless RMA.
Region 0 caused Monsters Inc to skip so I turned it to Region 1 and it was fine. Picture and audio were excellent (running virtual surround with my Quartets...not sure if I should turn off phantom center on the reciever).
Menus were quick and there was nothing out of the ordinary except a great picture and sound.
Anyone know if there is a way to dim the display though :) it's a little bright.
I am running it through Svideo to a 32" Toshiba. Great crisp picture.
Alex solomon
08-03-04, 11:29 PM
hey alkemyst, what was your previous DVD player?
biznus97
08-04-04, 09:48 AM
alkemyst,
there are brightness controls in the actual dvd player setup menu under the quality tab. You should be able to adjust it to your liking from there.
-B
alkemyst
08-05-04, 09:01 AM
I meant the LED brightness on the unit's display :)
Also I was trying to test the unit's virtual surround and putting my Yamaha into stereo mode, vs setting my yamaha in Dolby 3 channel with a phantom center and running the DVD as stereo....
I am not sure what's the best setup....I was playing with the THX sound optimizer a little and it was hard to tell a difference....it was definitely worse to have Dolby on my reciever the same time the DVD was decoding too.
alkemyst
08-05-04, 09:04 AM
Originally posted by Alex solomon
hey alkemyst, what was your previous DVD player?
We were using a Sony VAIO laptop. I also had experience with a Sony unit I bought for my parents. It's pretty finicky on certain discs (skips, pauses)....I may see about firmware for it, I need to get over there and get the model number.
fourizonly
08-05-04, 06:49 PM
Guys,
Any new firmware update for 238 or 288K/VGA? I got both players from eCost with the following manufacturing date and version.
DVD238 April '04 Version 2
DVD288 January '04 Version 3
Thanks, guys, a very informative thread, and I just bought a 288kvga at eCost for $47 after rebate. First looked on yamakawadvd.com, but the total came out to $77, and a $30 difference was too great. Thanks for the great thread.
Marco T
08-07-04, 09:51 AM
For those who have the 288k/VGA, can you output custom resolutions through VGA, like the Momitsu 880? I would really like to match it to my BenQ PB6200 projector panel (1024*768).
Marco, I've searched around for info on the 288, and if there is a way to output custom resolutions with the Yamakawa, no one is saying how it can be done.
Fourizonly, I emailed Yamakawa about firmware updates a week ago and no one ever emailed me back. What are the differences between the 238 and the 288 as far as picture quality goes, and does the 238 offer the same video adjustments in the video quality menu as the 288?
biznus97
08-07-04, 01:44 PM
CJayB,
I e-mailed yamakawa about firmware updates about two weeks ago and they told me that there is a new firmware but it only adds Spanish OSD suppoort. The new firmware can be found at www.yamakawausa.com. Navigate to the player and then choose support. Should be able to find it there. Hopefully there will be future firmware versions that add more options.
- B
alkemyst
08-07-04, 02:26 PM
I watched another movie on this last night great player....the movie had good colors and blacks plus sound quality was great. No skipping or other DVD nonsense some players do (my parents Sony, which I am going over now to find out the model number and see if a firmware update is out).
I would say this player would probably could out on the top 5 of sub $150 players easy, maybe even pushing that up a notch or two in price. At $500+ no way, but most of those in the 'real world' ;) have no idea of what they are missing with what they use to begin with.
Watching HellBoy and Starsky and Hutch later tonight.
Originally posted by biznus97
CJayB,
I e-mailed yamakawa about firmware updates about two weeks ago and they told me that there is a new firmware but it only adds Spanish OSD suppoort. The new firmware can be found at www.yamakawausa.com. Navigate to the player and then choose support. Should be able to find it there. Hopefully there will be future firmware versions that add more options.
- B
Biz is correct. No needed update, unless you want to do setups in spanish.
Here is what it says:
Firmware DVD-2xx
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE: Errors during the update process of your DVD-Player are not covered by the product warranty. In case you are not able to or do not want to do the Firmware Update by yourself, you can use our Yamakawa Update Service. In this case pls. contact the Yamakawa Service Hotline. You will find contact information on the warranty card in your user manual.
DVD-288K/VGA Firmware Download How to do the update
Please carefully read the firmware update instructions on this page. Should you have any doubts about the update process we recommend to use our Firmware Update Service, since firmware/hardware errors during updating the firmware are not covered by the warranty.
Features of the new firmware:
Spanish is selectable as OSD language
================================
Here is the link if you want to do the update: http://www.yamakawa.de/frames_usa.htm
Marco T
08-08-04, 05:19 PM
Did anyone get a hold of the black version, either 238 288 or 375?
I know you europeans can... Only North American experiences.
TIA
Just confirm that the 288 will do resolution to PAL 720x576; NTSC720x480 lines.
Samurai Jack
08-11-04, 03:02 PM
I just picked up a 288. Thanks for the find, guys. I've been looking for a halfway descent "cheapo" DVD to hook up to my ol' ProScan 36" CRT in the living room since all my equipment has been stolen away to the the basement HT. I was just about to just pick up whatever Best Buy was selling for $60. Glad I didn't! This looks to be a heck of a nice unit for the $42 I'll end up paying! And the region free is a really nice bonus!
Man, I love AVS!
I may also pick up a 238 for the bedroom TV. Sweet find.
Guys,
I've been following this thread since it's start and I would really love to purchase this player but I'm using a Ampro 3600 CRT FP so I need at least 1280x720. With the picture adjustment this player would truly be a dream. I still have hopes that one of the owner of this unit will discover a secret menu or Yamakawa will come out with a firmware upgrade that will allow higher resolutions via VGA port. If this player is based on the Sigma 8500 chip like the Momitsu then it can handle higher resolutions, RIGHT. Has there been any feedback from the company about future firmware upgrade for this player or is this one of there old model that want get any more support.
So come on you guys who own this puppy, find that secret menu or at least some kind of hack.
Andre
I have not tried to find any hacks, but did any of the others owners find any yet?
alkemyst
08-18-04, 10:29 AM
Anyone know why dvd movies won't output from my TV's outputs to my second set? Is this macrovision or something?
My setup is my video to my reciever. My reciever's monitor output to my main TV and then my main TV's monitor output (coax) to my bedroom set through the wall. My Dish Network over S-Video and VCR over RCA works fine in this arrangement.
I think this unit decodes Dolby Digital to 5.1 (hence the 6 analog audio output) but does not do DVD-A. Someone better check for sure but on their website it mentioned DD decoding but nothing about DVD-A. I doubt you can find a sub-$100 true DVD-A player.
Marco T
08-18-04, 06:02 PM
Huey,
My JVC SA-70BK is available for 89.50$ refurbed. Not a great deinterlacer, but DVD-A was fun :)
Yeah, forgot about refurbs. Still how can they offer DVD-A for $40-60. My bet is DD decoding which is still pretty awesome for that little of money.
CoasterGeorge
08-19-04, 04:32 PM
Anyone order their Yamakawa 288 from YamakawaDVD.com?
I just did and I think I made a mistake - I thought it was a site related to the manufacturer but noticed later in the thread that YamakawaUSA.com is the manufacturer site and that you can order thru them at a different site. The phone #s are 1 digit off (YamakawaDVD is 800-814-9614, Yamakawadirect is 800-814-9613) which makes me even a bit more nervous.
Looks like a great budget DVD player tho - and hopefully all these ordering nerves are for nothing...
George
alkemyst
08-19-04, 07:47 PM
YamakawaDVD is where I got mine...I even had a problem (due to UPS) and they had a new one on the way within an hour.
Can't beat that.
New one is awesome. My parents have a $200 Sony that skips and stalls at times....mine has played about 20 discs now all perfect.
Marco T
08-19-04, 09:15 PM
Still no black Yamakawa 288s or 375s in the US?
volvoguy
08-20-04, 02:11 AM
I got the Yamakawa 375 a few days ago. I am really impressed by the picture quality. I am running 720p to my BenQ 8700+ and the picture is stunning. Only grudge is the deinterlacing on some movies, seems to be mis-flagged or something. Most movies show no problems with deinterlacing though.
This player replaces my Pioneer DV-747A until I can get my hands on one of the new Denon players. Probably I will get the 1910 if everything is ok via DVI 720p 50Hz and other resolutions with PAL/NTSC.
Originally posted by CoasterGeorge
Anyone order their Yamakawa 288 from YamakawaDVD.com?
I too also got mine at YamakawaDVD, they are a great bunch of guys over there. I have no issues w/ my player. Love it to death!!!
I had invited a friend that is into Asian horror movies and he brought them over. They were all PAL and region 3 dvds. I never did the region hack, but that day I grab the directions on the "how to region hack". Took less the 5 seconds to do it. Played all his R3 dvds excellent. I even put my Z1 in PAL and wow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hands down once again, Yamakawa rocks.
CoasterGeorge
08-20-04, 08:44 AM
That's great to hear - can't wait for mine to show up now!
dedwards
08-23-04, 10:57 AM
Can anyone confirm if this player supports MP3-on-DVD?
I'm considering a Cyberhome or similar unit for a MP3 jukebox, but this sounds like a much nicer player overall.
DE
volvoguy
08-23-04, 02:15 PM
Originally posted by dedwards
Can anyone confirm if this player supports MP3-on-DVD?
I'm considering a Cyberhome or similar unit for a MP3 jukebox, but this sounds like a much nicer player overall.
DE
If you mean the Yamakawa 375, then yes it does.
LugNutX
08-23-04, 10:06 PM
Trying to find an inexpensive progressive scan player to replace my older interlaced player...
How does the 288 compare to something like the Toshiba 3960 when it comes to de-interlacing? I know neither one will do the greatest job, but which would you choose?
I don't have the 3960, but I have its predecessor, the 3900, which I believe has similar de-interlacing, and I would say that the 288 is about on par with the Toshiba. In just about every other way, the 288 is superior to the 3900 when it comes to video quality. I wouldn't hesitate for a second to recommend the 288 over the 3960 or any other DVD player I have experience with costing under $100.
LugNutX
08-24-04, 12:08 AM
I picked up a Zenith DVB412 this past weekend that will be going back this week. The video output (on any of the connections) is grainy and the colors/contrast are just not up to par with my existing Magnavox MDV421 (non-progressive). I was extremely disappointed with this player and just recently saw the Secret's shootout which also did not care for it...too bad I missed this review before I bought it :p
I took your advice and placed an order for the 288 instead, I figure for $45 (A/R), I can't go wrong. I think one of the reasons I still love my MDV421 is because of the fact it has such a nice picture and adjustments (sharpness, brightness, etc) which is why I am looking forward to getting the 288.
It sounds a lot like my existing player feature-wise, but now I'll be able to enjoy de-interlaced material :D
Besides, I've paid more than that for PC games that I ended up disliking...
DarkHelmetMan
08-24-04, 10:47 PM
Mine is on it's way. I did a search on Amazon for Yamakawa and it came up with Yakumo CH-DVD 300S (weird). But it had pictures of the DVD-288K/VGA. I put in the order anyway trusting it would resolve to what I wanted. As soon as I put in the order I received an email from yamakawadirect.com advising I just purchased a 288KVGA etc.
Thanks, exactly what I'm looking for until HD DVD.
Please report what you guys that just bought one. Love to hear what you think about it.
Marco T
08-25-04, 08:00 PM
Nobody found a black 288 in the US yet?
motoman
08-25-04, 09:08 PM
I e-mailed them about black 288's the other day and they said no black units for the US.
Jim
Just got my 238 from Ecost deal. Love the player so far. Anyway to get rid of the blue lights on the front? I thought maybe it was a setting but couldnt find it in the manual. Those suckers are bright.
CoasterGeorge
08-27-04, 02:13 PM
Got mine from Yamakawadvd.com about 2 days ago - just had the opportunity to hook it up last night and its great!
Playback on movies is fine, nice dark blacks, also plays all of the DVD-R and DVD+R I've created without an issue.
Played with MP3 on DVD - it sounds good but I noticed that files on the DVD weren't being shown on screen and those that were shown were very truncated - making it difficult to read song titles, etc. Going to play with the DVD-A functions once I can borrow one from a friend and see how it works. (I noticed the manual was kind of generic, the 288 does have DVD-A?)
One note about Yamakawadvd.com - the item was shipped in its own box, not double boxed so the potential for shipping damage is increased, mine was fine (great UPS driver in the neighborhood) but be aware.
George
alkemyst
08-27-04, 04:32 PM
Mine was damaged in shipping and a new one was sent the same day. There was only a quick "Was the box visibally damaged?" (mine wasn't) and then I was given an email to fill out and return. About 20 seconds later I received notice my new unit was on it's way and the tracking info. Probably my most painless RMA ever.
I used to work for myself and shipping equipment (Cisco network gear) was a pretty big cost....it's amazing the number of people that think shipping is totally based on price of an item...with larger goods going overseas especially, it was easy for shipping to be a multiple of the actual item cost.
A box for the DVD player to be properly double boxed could easily cost $5-7.50 each even in bulk, the packing material probably equal to that (if not more), and then you need to pay rent on the space you now have to use to store this stuff and things like 'peanuts' take up a ton of business space, I had to rent a much cheaper storage unit off-site to only store odd-sized boxes and packing materials.
When you are talking a sub $50 dvd player that many are more than likely going to buy based solely on cost, having to add what would about to 15-25% of the price in shipping supplies just is not going to fly well with your bread and butter customers (I would have been willing to pay extra as this was a DVD choice based on price as the last criteria....if money was no object then I doubt we'd be picking this player as our main unit). They'd have to more than likely lose money on the supplies which in turn would eat into an already very fair profit.
Figure Yamakawa has only a percentage of the selling price into the player itself. They will still probably be ahead on this at year end writing off the DOA items than the sales they would lose to a higher price point and also the lower profit from trying to meet those needs in the middle. The cost of making the player is an internal one, the cost of the supplies to get it to our door is an external one and harder to wash.
This is a great player though (plays better movie for movie than my parents $200+ Sony), region free, looks very good even with my all black equipment, and has advanced audio playback. On top of that it offers a full set of settings for audio and video tweaking.
I am no pro, but this player would be my choice hands down in the sub $500 price point for my needs and I have been looking 6 months+. I gave up looking for black units based on this one alone.
I hope Yamakawa gains a big market share here.
Å
Alex solomon
08-28-04, 02:09 AM
Shift, I remember you mentioned that you own HK DVD22. Could you comment on the sound quality of the Yamakawa on movie soundtracks compared to the DVD22?
Just for kicks I opened up my 288 this afternoon to see what it looks like inside. Don't try this at home or you'll void the warranty by breaking the case seal, but for $60 I wasn't going to worry about it.
Not much to report inside. A small power supply to the left of the loader and another very small circuit board at the front of the case by the on/off switch. The main circuit board sits right under the loader and is about the same size as the loader, so no way without uscrewing the loader from the case to see what chips are being used.
The loader is not upgradeable, meaning it is not a plug and play PC loader like the kind used in many of the Sigma 8500-based players like the LiteOn LVD-2001 or Momitsu V880.
A lot of wire sets running around the place, and the wires are not twisted. So while inside I did a few twists to all the wire sets and added an RF-stopper to the power cord coming out of the on/off switch. Have not tested to see if this makes any difference, I rather doubt it well.
A good part of the weight of the 288 is from the lid not the components inside.
Very stimple design. It's mostly empty inside, unlike my Panasonic RP91 that has circuit boards running for the full width and debth of the case.
And no, I didn't take any photos, if you were wondering.
motoman
08-29-04, 01:43 AM
Anybody else having trouble getting to the Yamakawa DVD site? I keep getting redirected to a webthink international site.
http://www.yamakawadvd.com/
Jim
Alex solomon
08-29-04, 10:24 AM
http://yamakawadirect.com/
motoman
08-29-04, 01:20 PM
Thanks Alex. Did that just change? I could have sworn I got to it from the other link a few days ago.
Thanks,
Jim
Notice, new link and new $10 higher price. But didn't check to see if shipping is still $15.
Ecost is now $17 cheaper before $10 rebate.
JGDragov
08-29-04, 08:57 PM
I've had the 288 for about a month now and for it's price it is an excellent player. It seems to be on par picture wise with my Toshiba SD4900 when both players are used with my NEC LT240k(DLP front PJ). During playback of out of region dvds(I'm region 1) the Yamakawa's picture is far better.
The VGA output was the reason I took the plunge on this unit as to best utilize the VGA inputs on my PJ. Unfortunately the image when set to "VGA" on the player doesn't produce a better picture than when it's set to "component". In fact, the "component" setting seems much better.
The physical setup for both settings is VGA out to VGA in via a VGA cable which I assumed would be ideal for the "VGA" setting in the Yamakawa's menu. I am a little perplexed as to why the "component " setting displays the superior image. In some of it's descriptions the 288 says to produce a great image via it's VGA output to CRT and LCD displays.
Could this mean that my PJ being a DLP display cannot receive the full benefit of the VGA out? Are there any DLP owners who have had better images produced via the VGA port?
Originally posted by Alex solomon
Shift, I remember you mentioned that you own HK DVD22. Could you comment on the sound quality of the Yamakawa on movie soundtracks compared to the DVD22?
DvD22 by harmon Kardon, was one of my favorites, but I did not feel that it was a 200.00 dvd player, even along with the Sammy HD841 dvd player.
As for the DvD22, I own a HK receiver and am a big fan of Harmon Kardon products. But the dvd22 as stated above was not worth the money, minus the sexy looks of it.
As for sound they are really equal, there are no setup tweeks in the dvd22. The Yamakawa has plenty of tweeks in its setup. even for speakers setup by setting the small or large.
I am not to much into music on my dvd player, but for movie sound it was loud and no signs of popping sound. I have mine set to RAW.
Originally posted by CJayB
Notice, new link and new $10 higher price. But didn't check to see if shipping is still $15.
Ecost is now $17 cheaper before $10 rebate.
Yep you better hurry, or you'll loose out on a CHEAP price for a 200.00 dvd player. ;) :D
ok -- just ordered mine through eCost -- I hope you guys don't let me down!!!
I can't believe you all are conspiring against me...
238 is available at goodguys store, for $39.99 upfront, $20 rebate
alkemyst
08-31-04, 06:29 PM
Originally posted by Shift
Yep you better hurry, or you'll loose out on a CHEAP price for a 200.00 dvd player. ;) :D
Anyone find any tests comparing this to others? I am curious if the 238 is equally good (although no front display sort of stink for a main player)...I may pick one up for my bedroom.
I was looking for only black units and changers $150-250 that could do multi-region....I went against my black only and changer requirement because this could not be passed up. Now I had the risk since I only saw the picture quality of the units locally ... but I will say the Yamakawa is definitely in the top across the board on just my few test disks (Monsters Inc, Spirited Away, Beauty and the Beast (which will not play on multi-region settings), something Japanese, mp3's and DVD-A. I want a PAL disc to test now.
My screens are both a Toshiba CX32G60 (circa 1997ish but still an excellent CRT) and a Toshiba 14AF43 for the bedroom.
Originally posted by alkemyst
Anyone find any tests comparing this to others? I am curious if the 238 is equally good (although no front display sort of stink for a main player)...I may pick one up for my bedroom.
I was looking for only black units and changers $150-250 that could do multi-region....I went against my black only and changer requirement because this could not be passed up. Now I had the risk since I only saw the picture quality of the units locally ... but I will say the Yamakawa is definitely in the top across the board on just my few test disks (Monsters Inc, Spirited Away, Beauty and the Beast (which will not play on multi-region settings), something Japanese, mp3's and DVD-A. I want a PAL disc to test now.
My screens are both a Toshiba CX32G60 (circa 1997ish but still an excellent CRT) and a Toshiba 14AF43 for the bedroom.
Since you mention the 238. This past weekend I was in town and my dad was in need of a better dvd player, but cheap.
So we headed out to BestBuy and grabbed the TOKIA unit for 35.00 on sale. It even had a power supply switch on the back of the unit. It was lacking Optical out.
As for performance, I have to say nice!! The remote is very simular to the 288, but was lacking some features as front disply. We tested all dvd-/+ R/RW media and it read it all.
If you press the display button on the remote it will tell you stuff like chapers etc...
Unit started up quick and none of the movies locked up.
As for setups its does not have no where near as much features or tweeks as my 288. It does have color setting, like the hue, contrast etc..
The TOKIA looks like a nice El Cheapo unit, I am sure it is very comparable to the 238. Looks very close to the same. Oh one thing I did not like on the Tokia front interface was not chapter skip buttons.
Here are some pics of the TOKIA.
I think I like to grab 2 for the kids rooms since BB is not to far from our town.
http://images.bestbuy.com/BestBuy_US/images/products/6655/6655924_ra.jpg
http://images.bestbuy.com/BestBuy_US/images/products/6655/6655924_ba.jpg
http://images.bestbuy.com/BestBuy_US/images/products/6655/6655924rca.jpg Take a look at this remote then the 288,, see they are very simular. I wonder if its region hack-able :confused:
alkemyst
09-01-04, 10:19 AM
The labeling on the output jacks is similar too....there are many Yamakawa names out there, Tokia is probably just another.
DarkHelmetMan
09-01-04, 01:26 PM
Well I received my 288 on Monday. The top is actually out at one of the hinges and would require me to take it apart (thus breaking the warranty seal) to fix it. It runs fine except it won't load discs occasionaly. I'll probably RMA it if that continues after burn in.
Great picture interlaced but P-Scan does not look as good. Is this referred to as poor de-interlacing? Has anyone else noticed this? I'm running it on a Toshiba RP 42HDX82. It does look better than my previous Panasonic RP62 with the alleged Faroudja chip.
Originally posted by DarkHelmetMan
Well I received my 288 on Monday. The top is actually out at one of the hinges and would require me to take it apart (thus breaking the warranty seal) to fix it. It runs fine except it won't load discs occasionaly. I'll probably RMA it if that continues after burn in.
Great picture interlaced but P-Scan does not look as good. Is this referred to as poor de-interlacing? Has anyone else noticed this? I'm running it on a Toshiba RP 42HDX82. It does look better than my previous Panasonic RP62 with the alleged Faroudja chip.
get a exchange.
:eek:
As for interlace, I run componet w/ progressive. I think it look's great!
LugNutX
09-01-04, 01:38 PM
My 288 was delivered yesterday and I spent yesterday evening setting it up. All in all, I'm fairly pleased with this little unit. A few things I've noticed:
The manual is about as basic as they come, but then again, I wasn't expecting much. Wish it would have mentioned a few things that could have saved me time from experimenting.
The picture is fairly sharp, but I've noticed quite a bit of video noise as a result...nothing too bad, but something I didn't see on my other player (MDV421, interlaced)
The default settings for picture quality seem to be WAY off. I popped a DVD in as soon as I got everything hooked up just to do a dry run and the colors were overexaggerated and saturated (mostly the reds) I was able to correct this to an extent, but its still not quite right.
This thing plays everything I threw at it. I have one DVD that I burned incorrectly and as a result skips near the end of the disc. Other players I have tested completely stopped or skipped whole chapters when these errors came up. The 288 will play straight through them, jittering only very briefly. Granted, I don't watch this disc, but I always use it to see how well the players can handle it.
Many people have issues with how bright the unit's front display is, but I found it quite helpful. Because it's not as big as the display on my receiver, being brighter helps me read it better from across the room.
I haven't experimented much with the sound settings, as I prefer the spdif/raw output to allow the receiver to do any "tweaking" instead of the player, but the options do look quite interesting.
Despite my nitpicking, for a sub-$50 player, this is an EXCELLENT buy and I'm quite happy. As for the color settings, could someone post the settings they use for contrast/brightness/hue/etc on the 288? I set my TV up using an AVIA disc on the other player, and was happy with the results, so I have a feeling the changes now need to be made to the 288, not the television...
I have saturation turned up one notch and I believe gamma is also up a notch. Everything else at default settings was fine with the way I have my display calibrated. And with these settings the Yamakawa matches the look of my Panasonic RP91 that I leave with its settings set at default all the way through (my display is calibrated to the Panny).
alkemyst
09-01-04, 04:45 PM
Originally posted by DarkHelmetMan
Well I received my 288 on Monday. The top is actually out at one of the hinges and would require me to take it apart (thus breaking the warranty seal) to fix it. It runs fine except it won't load discs occasionaly. I'll probably RMA it if that continues after burn in.
Great picture interlaced but P-Scan does not look as good. Is this referred to as poor de-interlacing? Has anyone else noticed this? I'm running it on a Toshiba RP 42HDX82. It does look better than my previous Panasonic RP62 with the alleged Faroudja chip.
Only problem now would be how would they know it was really damaged in shipping or through attempted modding. Mine was damaged in shipping and I had a new one on it's way the same day.
DarkHelmetMan
09-01-04, 04:58 PM
How does one Karaoke this thing? Do you have to have a Karaoke cd or dvd? I stuck a computer microphone in it via an adapter expecting it to work but it did not. Would it only work in analog? I can't imagine my receiver converting my voice to Dolby Digital.
I didn't buy this thing for the Karaoke feature but the potential of hours of entertainment is great.
alkemyst
09-01-04, 07:35 PM
my wife knows about karaoke...I will ask her.
DarkHelmetMan
09-02-04, 07:12 PM
Originally posted by alkemyst
my wife knows about karaoke...I will ask her.
I'll try not to take that as an insult :)
alkemyst
09-02-04, 08:21 PM
She wasn't sure about my player and we are preparing for a hurricane so no time to look into it.
She said there are special karaoke discs, but you can sometimes lower the voices (vocals) on the disc with the player.
I think the 288 supports that.
I now have both the 288 and the 238 (Good Guys is selling the 238 for $40 with a $15 rebate).
The only major differences I can see so far are that the 238 does not have the VGA connector, does not do DVD-Audio or karaoke, and of course has the smaller case without the too-bright front display of the 288 (but instead has two very annoying very bright blue lights that have to be taped off, otherwise even duing the day I'm blinded by them).
The 238 has all the same video adjustments as the 288, including 3 levels of sharpness, gamma, hue, saturation, contrast, brightnest and luma delay.
The 238 also has the ability to set region code using the same 1379 code as the 288 and does a great job of converting PAL to NTSC.
Both have digital and coaxial and 5.1 channel and stereo audio connectors in back, as well as component and S-vid and composite.
At least with the 238 (not tried with 288) both S-vid and component video works at the same time, unlike with a lot of cheap DVD players.
The video quality between the two players seems to be identical based on just watching a few films so far.
The remotes are similar but not completely interchangeable, the P-Scan and Program buttons on the bottom of the 288 remote will not control the 238. The 238 remote has a button that says Mute instead of Resume on the 288, but both buttons bring up a mute menu when watching a regular DVD.
Bottom line, if you don't need the few extra features, the 238 for little more than the price of 1 DVD will do fine and save you $25 to $40 over the cost of the 288.
Both are tremendous bargains, especially for anyone just needing a DVD player to play one or two or a few DVDs in their collection that are from other regions.
OK -- got mine in and I love it. Looks wonderful OoTB on my old Toshiba TP61H60!
I have also just gotten a SA 8000 DVR from Time Warner. The coolest thing about it ten minutes in was that it actually replaced all of my other remotes which included all the menu/switches I use.
The only downside to the Yama so far is that I cannot seem to learn the DVD remote code!! My wife likes the new player as well, but is bummed about the need for the second remote (again).
tuta, since we're talking about all Yamakawa DVD players here, I have to ask: What did you get?
I purchased the 288kVGA. Been very happy with it so far. Does a lot better with rented DVDs (NetFlix) than the old Pioneer from 1998 did... The folks subscribing to Netflix are definitely not as protective of that shiny layer on the underside of the label if you know what I mean...
MY ONLY Complaint -- my brand new SA 8000 Remote is fantastic in the respect that it actually can run every component of my aging setup except for the Yamakawa player...
Has anyone found out the 4 digit code that will work with the 288kVGA?
fiveohhh
09-08-04, 06:26 PM
I just bought the 288kvga from ecost and in the setup the option to pick what kind of tv(wide-4:3) is not accesible and is on 4:3. Any way to get this option enabled? Also the entire pref tab is not accesible.
LugNutX
09-08-04, 06:45 PM
Took me a while to figure out this one too (and part of my problem with the manual)
To change the screen size and access the preferences menu, make sure there's not a DVD in the player and access the Setup menu from the Yamakawa splash screen. Technically, I guess you could just hit "stop" a few times if you have a disc in the player, but its just easier this way.
fiveohhh
09-08-04, 06:53 PM
Originally posted by LugNutX
Took me a while to figure out this one too (and part of my problem with the manual)
To change the screen size and access the preferences menu, make sure there's not a DVD in the player and access the Setup menu from the Yamakawa splash screen. Technically, I guess you could just hit "stop" a few times if you have a disc in the player, but its just easier this way.
Awesome! Thanks.
I can have a dvd movie in mine and then adjust to screen size, I mean if that is what your asking. I just go into setup menu and change screen size from either widescreen, P/S or Letterbox4:3
LugNutX
09-09-04, 01:29 PM
Yes, there can be a disc in the unit, but those particular changes can't be made if the disc is playing (at least not on my model). I just noticed this because I usually make my changes on the fly, its easier for me to tell a difference when I don't have to keep starting a movie up.
Of course, this doesn't really apply when changing the screen ratio, since I know what that's gonna look like...just old habit. :)
robertc88
09-17-04, 05:47 AM
I purchased the 288/vga yesterday from ecost.
I have the Tosh SD3960 which has far exceeded my expectaions for a $69 player for BOTH video and audio CD playback. The only small rant I have is that the audio playback for DVD movies isn't the greatest IMHO (utilizing a Denon 3803 AVR), but again this is a $69 player.
Very interested in how the 288 will stack up. The 3960 did quite well in the inexpensive player benchmark. Not sure if I'll use a PC monitor at all with the 288 but it is a nice option to have.
What has exceeded my expectations also is the AVS forum which I started tuning into two months ago. I'm out some money since then! :)
mallu2u
09-17-04, 12:16 PM
Robert: let us know your thoughts when you compare the two players...
robertc88
09-17-04, 06:15 PM
Will do. From memory, I believe the 3960 smokes the 563A which I tried and sent back to Best Buy more so though because of compatability issues with various DVD-A recordings. There are firmware patches for that and I believe the latter models correctly that but I'm not looking back on that player any longer. The 288/vga also plays DVD-A which is nice feature for a $50 player. The CA 540D I own also plays DVD-A recordings.
Looking forward to your thoughts on the Zenith. I haven't ruled that player out. I can easily send the SD3960 packing!
Xesdeeni
09-18-04, 10:02 PM
I was all set to buy a 238 or 288, but then I saw some problems with learning remotes. Is this a certain situation? Has anyone had luck with a particular learning remote, or are all out? I'm using the Home Theater Master MX-500 (I love it!).
Xesdeeni
alkemyst
09-18-04, 10:14 PM
how often is it going to make a difference to have an all in one really?
I am using two with my Yama...haven't tried to program it yet though into my learning remote.
I also still use my dish network's with my learning as it feels better and my wife is less confused.
If you are buying the Yamakawa you will give up some things over the money is no object crowd.
Xesdeeni
09-20-04, 09:02 AM
It's important enough for me to ask.
Xesdeeni
robertc88
09-20-04, 06:32 PM
The 288 was arrived today from ecost. All I hooked up so far was the audio to play a few CDs after I got home from work. Playing at a very low volume right now.
I'll finish hooking it up later after supper and try a few DVD movies and let you folks know what I thing initially.
Originally posted by robertc88
The 288 was arrived today from ecost. All I hooked up so far was the audio to play a few CDs after I got home from work. Playing at a very low volume right now.
I'll finish hooking it up later after supper and try a few DVD movies and let you folks know what I thing initially.
Cool!! Let us know. :cool:
gxshiem
09-21-04, 06:45 PM
I also received my 288 from ecost a couple of days ago.
I have some questions though. Maybe someone can answer them.
DVD menus aren't always responding. The same is true for skipping or going back some chapter(s). What happens then is that sometimes the DVD hangs. To get out of it you have to press stop and then play to resume, which will take you to whereever you intended to go.
I've only tried it with the Japanese R3 version of Hero.
I also tried a PAL disc and the quality wasn't that good. Will PAL DVD's look the same as NTSC DVD's? Maybe the PAL DVD wasn't a good one (1998 or 1997 recording).
Thanks.
alkemyst
09-21-04, 07:53 PM
Sounds like a media issue....get some regular 'blockbuster' type DVDs for a benchmark and then a few PAL original discs to see....
gxshiem
09-21-04, 10:30 PM
I did some more tests on some DVD on my 288. The first (very old) Stargate DVD also froze the player when I wanted to play the trailer.
The DVD player kind of hesistated with the Lion King when I skipped a couple of chapters consecutively. The First Element played flawless.
Is the DVD player like this or should I ask for an exchange (ecost=hell)?
Thanks.
mallu2u
09-21-04, 10:40 PM
How is the MP3 support of this player? How is the GUI? Does it have a page up/down option, create favorite list, play playlists and how is the overall navigation? And Audio Quality?
JGDragov
09-21-04, 10:45 PM
gxshiem,
I can all but guarantee you need to exchange the unit. I have trown tons of discs(R1 and R2) in the 288 and haven't experienced the problems you've described. Is the return policy at ECost a hassle?
biznus97
09-21-04, 11:33 PM
gxshiem,
Those symptoms sound like the ones I had when I received my first unit. I have had two others since then and both play my movies flawlessly. I'd say try to exchange.
-Biz
I played PAL and NTSC movies . I even played the R3 Dawn of the Dead (2004) and no probs. PAL convert looked great. No color fades. I never had any dvd movie lock up or skip on me.
Now my 1st player was crap. Got an exchange and could not be any happier :)
mallu2u
09-22-04, 09:36 AM
Originally posted by mallu2u
How is the MP3 support of this player? How is the GUI? Does it have a page up/down option, create favorite list, play playlists and how is the overall navigation? And Audio Quality?
Anyone on above?
BigGoose
09-24-04, 07:18 AM
For any Yamakawa owners . . .
I just got my Samsung DLP yesterday and finally got a chance to try out my 238 I bought for it. I played LOTR-FOTR and could not get my Yamaha HTR-5760 to play anything but 2 channel sound from the feed (I have it hooked up via component to the TV and optical to my receiver). I know the DVD has Dolby DTS, and the 238 can pass it over optical, so it should have defaulted to a minimum of 5.1 when in auto mode (the HTR-5760), but it did not. I played around with the 238 settings, but nothing seemed to work. Anyone have any ideas? I would appreciate any advice. Thanks!
DarkHelmetMan
09-24-04, 12:03 PM
Adjust your audio settings on the DVD player. I can't remember what it was, something simple though...
BigGoose
09-24-04, 01:16 PM
Originally posted by DarkHelmetMan
Adjust your audio settings on the DVD player. I can't remember what it was, something simple though...
Thanks Dark,
I found the problem. The Yamaha HTR-5760 was not set to Cinema mode. For some reason, it will not use Dolby Digital if not in this mode, even though the manual says in "Auto" mode it will select the best mode available. Although right before this I put SPDIF in manual mode and set SPDIF to "Raw" in the Dolby Digital menu of the 238. Maybe the combination of the two solved the problem? Thanks anyway!
fourizonly
09-24-04, 03:11 PM
BigGoose,
Are you happy with the video quality?
BigGoose
09-24-04, 03:58 PM
Originally posted by fourizonly
BigGoose,
Are you happy with the video quality?
Keep in mind that I just fired both my Sammy 5063 and the 238 for the first time yesterday, but to answer your questions YES! I bought the Yamakawa as a cheap DVD player to hold me over until the Samsung 941 comes out. But I was shocked at the picture quality. At the beginning of the Digital Video Essentials DVD they show the Shuttle launch and pictures from space. All I can say is WOW! The pictures from space were like looking out a window! This is a great DVD player for the price when matched with the up-converting capabilities of the Samsung DLP's!
Guys,
I just did another comparision in Interlaced vs PS. I found out that PS is kind of fuzy , and interlaced was awsome. I am running component.
-But still very happy with my 288
Originally posted by Shift
Guys,
I just did another comparision in Interlaced vs PS. I found out that PS is kind of fuzy , and interlaced was awsome. I am running component.
-But still very happy with my 288
Never mind, my component cable went bad :o
gxshiem
09-30-04, 09:33 AM
I received my replacement 288 a couple of days ago. It's working perfectly! :D
All,
Just confirm that my 288 does play DVD-A. :D
Jim McC
10-02-04, 11:53 PM
Is there a Yamakawa DVD player available in U.S. that "upconverts" to 720 or 1080 via component inputs? Thanks.
Originally posted by Jim McC
Is there a Yamakawa DVD player available in U.S. that "upconverts" to 720 or 1080 via component inputs? Thanks.
I spoke with a man named Ryan last week at yamakawadirect and he told me that the 375 is being shipped to the US and is supposed to be in stock on Oct 1st. This is the one that is advertised to be 720P/1080i over component. However thier web page has not been updated to include this new model. Do a search on google and give them a call on the 1-800. Let us know what you find out.
Good luck.
Rich
Richum, You have any pics of the new 375? whats the price for this new unit coming out in Oct?
Thanks
Jim McC
10-03-04, 11:34 PM
There's a picture of the 375 plus all the specs at Yamakawa/de. Go to Yamakawausa.com, then click on Yamakawausa.com toward bottom, then click on products on top. It shows a price of $159. If I'm reading right, it says it will upconvert over DVI and component (correct me if I'm wrong). I'm considering a player that upconverts over component, but the Zenith seems to have too many problems. Where will this be available in U.S? Thanks.
That dvd player 375, kinda looks like a kinda looks like that Sammy HD.
http://www.yamakawa.de/produkte/dvd375_72.jpg
Looks like a new dvd player I will be buying.
:) Thanks!!
Jim McC
10-04-04, 05:42 PM
Shift, did I read it right, it sounds like it upconverts over component AND DVI? Where will it be available in U.S, do you think? Thanks.
Originally posted by Jim McC
Shift, did I read it right, it sounds like it upconverts over component AND DVI? Where will it be available in U.S, do you think? Thanks.
It should be in California now. The info says it does 1080i over both component and DVI. I am going to have to call and see if it is in. I bought the the 288 and am very happy with it so far.
Plus
I read a post where the member said that there was not a dramatic difference between 720P and 1080i on their component 1080i setup (not a Yamakawa) so the only other feature that "might" be of interest is its ability to play Divx/Orbis movies. I am using rear projection (BenQ PB6200) and I am not sure it would really be worth the difference since my projector is not DVI capable. I have more or less decided to wait until I upgrade to a DVI projector which is going to be a while.
Anyone have an opinion on this?
Rich
Jim McC
10-05-04, 02:32 AM
Richum, I am considering buying an upconverting player such as this for the component output upconvert. I have the Infocus X1 projector, and it doesn't have DVI. I guess I'll wait for a few reviews and the price (don't know if that $159 is correct).
jrosado
10-05-04, 06:59 AM
Hi:
Just to let you all know that i have the 375 (i'm from Europe :) ). It's a great player. The DVI output it's a DVI-I output, so there is also a VGA signal present on that output. There are the following output options (both DVI and component): 480P, 480W(ide), 576p, 720p (both 50 and 60 Hertz - PAL and NTSC) and 1080i (50 and 60 Hertz) plus custom resolutions on the DVI output.
Regards,
J. Rosado
Jim McC
10-05-04, 03:44 PM
Thanks for the info. So it should work with my Infocus X1 projector thru the VGA/component input? It uses an adapter that has VGA into projector, and component on the other end. The X1 does not have DVI input. Do you know how the upconvert looks thru component on the 375? Sorry about all the questions.
Jim McC
10-05-04, 03:57 PM
I just spoke to customer service at Yamakawa (CA.) and he said the 375 is not in USA yet. They are at "Customs" and should be in any day. He said it will be on Yamakawadirect.com website as soon as it's in USA. He also said the U.S. price has not been set yet.
Originally posted by Jim McC
I just spoke to customer service at Yamakawa (CA.) and he said the 375 is not in USA yet. They are at "Customs" and should be in any day. He said it will be on Yamakawadirect.com website as soon as it's in USA. He also said the U.S. price has not been set yet.
Thanks, I was just going to call and you saved me the trouble.
Rich
jrosado
10-05-04, 06:04 PM
Hi:
Jim: you can connect it using a DVI-I to VGA pluga adapter and then a VGA cable (the X1 has a VGA input, doesn't it?). Or you can connect it using the component output and a component cable.
As for component output looks, i'm sorry but i never used it. I've it connected to my panny plasma using DVI anda the panny DVI blade. Here the panny is not selled with component board. Also, component to VGA cable (since the VGA input on the panny accepts component) isn't easy to find.
Here is a picture from the back of the yamakawa 375
http://www.yamakawa.de/produkte/dvd375_b_rear.jpg
Regards,
J. Rosado
Guys,
Are you sure that the 375 will be avaliable is the US?
B/c I exchanged 4 e-mails w/ YamakawaDirect and they said that dvd player will not be avaliable in the US and that the DvD335 is the only one they will be selling not the 375.
Man, now I am confused!! :(
Originally posted by Shift
Guys,
Are you sure that the 375 will be avaliable is the US?
B/c I exchanged 4 e-mails w/ YamakawaDirect and they said that dvd player will not be avaliable in the US and that the DvD335 is the only one they will be selling not the 375.
Man, now I am confused!! :(
Looks like it will not be available. I am reading the same thing you are. When I spoke to the man at yamakawa direct USA, he may have thought I was asking about the 335 not the 375. They have beed called and it was stated by the marketing manager that it isn't being imported.
Bad news for those set on getting the 1080i from a Yamakawa.
Jim McC
10-07-04, 03:55 PM
That really sucks, back to square 1 again.
Anybody bought from eCOST? I'm ready to place an order, but Yamakawadirect is out of 288.
238 is now $20 at eCOST. How do they make money??
Originally posted by Notti
Anybody bought from eCOST? I'm ready to place an order, but Yamakawadirect is out of 288.
238 is now $20 at eCOST. How do they make money??
Yes I bought the 288 from eCost, no problelms, came straight away and has worked fine so far.
Rich
LeRolls
10-08-04, 09:05 AM
Can't we just import the 375 from Europe? Will they not ship it to the US?
Originally posted by LeRolls
Can't we just import the 375 from Europe? Will they not ship it to the US?
I suspect the reason the 375 will not be imported has to do with its ability to output HD(1080i) over component. Since if I understand it correctly, once converted from digital to analog High Def Copy Protection is defeated. I am seeing that most of the other players, Motsumi etc.. that can do this are being changed to prevent 1080i over component to satisfy the powers that be in the MPAA.
So unless you travel to or have friends in Europe, just forget it. That seems to be the case.
Rich
toothy mako
10-09-04, 08:15 AM
Anyone know if the 375 is sold in the UK? I did a quick UK google search and didn't see it.
Originally posted by toothy mako
Anyone know if the 375 is sold in the UK? I did a quick UK google search and didn't see it.
You might send email to sales at yamakawa.de , I looked for you but they only show retailers in Greece and the Czech Repulic as selling their DVD players. I would be interested in knowing what you find out.
Rich
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