NeuNeo HVD108 upconverting DVD player review

[JGDragov]

I ordered my region free HVD108 from the NeuNeo site last Thursday. The player arrived on Tuesday from DHL with the package in excellent condition even though the packaging was minimal. It cost $206.50 shipped to New Jersey with a complimentary HVD called Winged Migration(The Traveling Birds).

For the most part I am pleased with this unit. It looks much better in person than it does on it's website for those who care. It is silver and extremely thin. It's remote is very functional but the unit itself doesn't need it to operate as the buttons on the player offer many options, including a NTSC/PAL, 720p or 1080i and VGA output controls. It's ability to up-convert via it's component or VGA outputs on DVDs even with Macrovison is a huge plus. It can also do 1024x768 via VGA which happens to be my PJ's native resolution. Like most owners of the V880, I find the 720p to produce the best image on this unit. It is clearly, although in most cases marginally, better than the images on my two 480p players. The audio from this player is just like it's described on their site, "decent". The HVD108 is hooked up via a 15 ft. VGA cable to my NEC LT240K front PJ. No adapters are needed as this player does not have a DVI output.

I must tell you that the image of the NeuNeo while playing the Migration HVD is the most stunning I have ever seen on my PJ. It has blown away anything my 240K has shown to date. From what I understand Blu Ray and HD DVD are even superior to this format which bodes well for us videophiles when HD DVD players come out.

Now for the knocks. The audio would benefit greatly from a "dialog" adjuster in the sound menu. It doesn't play DVD audio or SACD which is huge for some people. While I haven't noticed any lip-synce issues some users have reported this as being a big problem. One problem I've had thus far on my Alien Quadrilogy dvds is the the Special Edition logo apperas on screen during playback of the movie special editions. This is something you normally go into the dvd menu to activate but the player does it on it's own and I can't disable it. Not major but a pain. Also, the player is a little sluggish in it's commands(i.e chapter skip, resume play, etc.) but this wasn't a big issue for me.

In the end given this player's price, VGA/component upscaling and the HVD experience I'm glad I bought this unit. I feel that it will bridge the gap to my first HD DVD player quite nicely. I feels the cons of this unit shuld be given strong consideration by future buyers as you really don't want to be disapointed after spending a couple hundred dollars. Please post any findings/opinions of your own on this player as I'm sure people would like to hear them.

[John Chu]

Thanks for the review.

I already have the Zenith DVB-318...but if it ever dies, and I need a player that upconverts via component...this sounds nice.

I wish one could compare the picture quality of both.

Also..does it have any special features for playing non-anamorphic/4:3 material? That is: pilarboxing it withing the HD frame? Or does it lock it in like the Zenith 318?

[JGDragov]

Hi John.

As I am aware of the DVB-318 through the posts on this site I have never seen one in person. Therefore I can't give a comparitive in PQ of the two units nor in their functions.

If I could just ask you to confirm for me that pillarbaoxing is the black bars on the sides of 4:3 material? If so, then I can tell you that this player doesn't have them. If my understanding of your question is wrong please clarify for me.

One pro and con of this unit I forgot to mention
Pro- It is firmware upgradable.
Con- The tray only opens 3/4 of the way out. This is not a problem for me but a post I saw said the same thing and I just wanted to confirm it.

[JGDragov]

Just thought I 'd reveal some information from an email from NeuNeo. They inform me that a firmware upgrade will be available in the next month to address some of the "bugs" the player might have.

Also, they are attempting to obtain more HVDs as to possibly make them available through their website. For owners of the NeuNeo or the Skyworth that is good news.

[Huey]

How does the NeuNeo's XGA output compare to Momitsu 720p output (or 1080i for that matter)? I'm just curious to see if the AMLogic chipset scales better than Sigma 8500 chipset. I read that the Momitsu (and any other Sigma chipset DVD players) has R sided EE via component and VGA (not via DVI) due to poor analog section (supposedly fixed in the Deluxe or DX edition of Momitsu but I have not seen confirmed reports on this R-sided EE issue). I have LiteON LVD-2001 (Sigma 8500) and it certainly does have R sided EE in 720p or 1080i component mode. I assume that the NeuNeo does not have this right sided EE issue (Roy who sells this said no). I also assume that your NEC LT240K can do the 16:9 vertical compression in VGA mode as my old NEC LT150 can't (Cinema mode only available via component input and not VGA input) so I can't use XGA output of this player for anamorphic DVDs as images will be vertically stretched. I currently use Zenith DVB318 to feed my LT150 1080i via component and I am very happy with this combo (though my HTPC still beats it easily with more fuss of course). Have you compared its XGA vs. 720p or 1080i output and if so which do you prefer? Thanks in advance.

[JGDragov]

Hi Huey.

Like I said in my review, 720p provides a better image than 1080i, at least for these eyes. As far as XGA(1024 x768) it seems to be virtually the same as 720p. If I had to pick one I guess the 720p looks a hair better.

I was a little disapointed in that respect as I can't understand why XGA's image doesn't surpass 720p's. I haven't given up on XGA yet, as I'm hoping some tweaking in the PJ options menu might still produce a better picture. Thankfully, as you suggested, I am able to view all movies in thier proper aspect ratios.

To answer your Momitsu comparison question, I thought the 720p and 1080i images were about the same for these players. The V880 is no longer here so I can't give a side by side. I can say with certainty however, that nothing on the V880 came close to matching the HVD image. One thing of note when I set the V880 to my custom resolution it negated my keystoning while the HVD108 did not.

[greeno]

Huey,
Have you observed MB with your 318 yet? I did this weekend in day after tomorrow. If my dreamx wasn't so fussy about playing discs (you have to power up, eject/insert (with the tray empty) twice, then load), I'd switch back.

Best,
jeff

[Marco T]

JGDragov,

You've been a busy buyer....

Glad to hear you like the Neo player. I also have a XGA pj (BenQ 6200) and might give it a whirl if my Denon DVD-910 does not behave.

A bit off topic, but what are the specs for the HVD format? Resolution, bitrate? This might be a nice way to record HDTV and play it back on the Neo...

[JGDragov]

Marco,

Yeah, I've definitely bought a few players in the past several months. I'm really starting to adpot the "see for yourself" philosophy. This unit has more pros and cons for me and I'm holding out hope, although it's looking less likely, that some worthwhile movies will be released on HVD.

Unfortunately there appears to be little information on this format, including the specs, on the sites I've visited. The packaging the HVD disc came in was in chinese and told me absolutely nothing and the articles I've read have given it little chance to take off outside of China. A real shame. If you ever get a chance to view this disc you'll see why I'm so taken with it.

[Axatax]

It would be interesting to compare the D-VHS version of Winged Migration to the HVD version.

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by JGDragov
Also, they are attempting to obtain more HVDs as to possibly make them available through their website. For owners of the NeuNeo or the Skyworth that is good news.

Please let me know if this happens!

Originally posted by Huey
I'm just curious to see if the AMLogic chipset scales better than Sigma 8500 chipset. I read that the Momitsu (and any other Sigma chipset DVD players) has R sided EE via component and VGA (not via DVI) due to poor analog section (supposedly fixed in the Deluxe or DX edition of Momitsu but I have not seen confirmed reports on this R-sided EE issue). I have LiteON LVD-2001 (Sigma 8500) and it certainly does have R sided EE in 720p or 1080i component mode. I assume that the NeuNeo does not have this right sided EE issue (Roy who sells this said no).

I have the Skyworth HVD-3050, which also uses the AMLogic scaling chip. I ran a lot of tests and did not detect any edge enhancement introduced during the scaling to 720p or 1080i.

Originally posted by JGDragov
I was a little disapointed in that respect as I can't understand why XGA's image doesn't surpass 720p's. I haven't given up on XGA yet, as I'm hoping some tweaking in the PJ options menu might still produce a better picture.

The LT-240k has a pretty good scaler built in if you can feed it a progressive source signal. The projector's scaling from 720p to XGA is pretty seamless. I have an iScan-HD connected to my 240, and don't see much difference between feeding the projector a 720p signal or XGA native resolution.

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by Marco T
A bit off topic, but what are the specs for the HVD format? Resolution, bitrate?

It's really hard to get good information on the HVD format. From what I've been able to determine, the native resolution is 720p compressed with MPEG2. No idea about bitrate. Both the discs I have include Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtracks that sound pretty awful, so I suspect that the audio has a very low bit-rate to compensate for the extra disc space that the 720p video takes up.

[Marco T]

I guess divx or xvid would give a better result then...at least the video compression is high enough you can fit some decent sound...

Too bad. If HVD was a better standard, I think it would be a major selling point.

BTW, can you play HVDs on a pc? If so, then maybe there would be a way to compress video enough (like in dvdshrink) to fit a decent sound track. Here I am talking about a HDTV broadcast that could be saved to a HVD file.

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by Marco T
BTW, can you play HVDs on a pc?

HVDs use a proprietary encryption codec, so they won't play on any machine without the necessary AMLogic decoder chip.

[JGDragov]

I just received an email from NeuNeo with a great offer that does me very little good. The offer is for 20% off a HVD108 with a free Hero HVD, which is the disc I originally requested.

This would have saved my an extra $15($191 shipped) and netted me a movie on HVD I would love to see, something I told them in my replying email. I'm hoping this will at least guilt them into sending my the HVD. ;)

[Josh Z]

Hero was pressed on HVD? I have the EVD. Wasn't aware there was an HVD as well.

That's another one I'd love to have. When are they going to start selling the discs?

[JGDragov]

Originally posted by Josh Z
Hero was pressed on HVD? I have the EVD. Wasn't aware there was an HVD as well.

That's another one I'd love to have. When are they going to start selling the discs?

They said they were working on getting more HVD titles but didn't give a date when they would be available. I'm still waiting on a response from them to see how I can get my copy of Hero.

You say you have the EVD of Hero? How is the quality? Does your skyworth play EVDs? If not, how do you view them?

[A/Vspec]

Any chance they are planning a networkable version?

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by JGDragov
You say you have the EVD of Hero? How is the quality?

The disc is the 108-minute extended cut and comes from the same transfer as the Guan Dog Face DVD (the EVD is also licensed from GDFace). The color transfer isn't as good as the theatrical cut DVD from Edko. Colors are dull and the picture is too bright overall. However, the EVD is definitely more detailed than either DVD. No English subtitles, unfortunately. Audio is a very poor 2-channel mix.

Does your skyworth play EVDs? If not, how do you view them?

In addition to the Skyworth, I also have a Shinco EVD-8830 that I bought solely to compare the two formats (and for the copy of Hero). The player is basically a piece of junk and I don't recommend it at all. It has constant audio dropouts with both EVDs and DVDs.

I wrote a full review of both players here:

http://www.connectedhomemag.com/HomeTheater/Articles/Index.cfm?ArticleID=43123

[bootron]

anybody using this player with an x1. i've been thinking about getting it but didnt know if it was a good match for my projector. And JG u said you got a coupon. i was wondering if there was a way the rest of us could get ahold of that deal.

[JGDragov]

bootron,

I'm not sure if the coupon is available to anyone or just me. The promo code is YNNBACC3PC1 which you enter while ordering. It's worth a try. If it doesn't work you can just cancel the order before it's placed.

As far as this player being a good match for the X1, there are a couple things to consider.
Pros-
It upconverts via VGA which is the port on your PJ.
It would cost you under $200 shipped.
It is firmware upgradable with new firmware coming next month
Plays HVDs which have excellent PQ
Cons-
The audio is average
HVDs are minimally available right now and might never catch on

I think the the 720p/1080i through vga is huge for PJs without DVI inputs considering the relatively low price. Keep us posted on your situation as I would like to hear how the image is on your X1.

[bootron]

the vga is what i really like about the player. i have a vga->component cable right now, but the quality of the cable isnt the best. a great deal off e-bay though. i only paid $30 for the cable and its definitely a step above my s-video or composite cable. also, i've just been in the mood to find out how well the dvd player works. everybody has the zenith and i guess i just wanna be different and try the neuneo. heck im probably ordering it tonight before i get stupid and wait around for another few weeks and complain about my cheap dvd/vcr combo player. now that i have digital cable i no longer need the tv tuner from the player and i've just been lazy (as usual). i'll post soon and let everybody know how shipping and quality is :)

[bootron]

i can never leave well enough alone. i think its a fault of all us avs members. i came across this link

http://www.wmvhd.com/

and now im confused. i guess im going to mess around for a little bit longer and see if maybe a good htpc would be the way to go.

[JGDragov]

The reason Josh probably didn't know that Hero was released on HVD was because it wasn't. Turns out that I was mistaken as NeuNeo set me straight. The Hero they are offering is The Director's Cut DVD version.

Sorry about that.:rolleyes:

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by JGDragov
The reason Josh probably didn't know that Hero was released on HVD was because it wasn't. Turns out that I was mistaken as NeuNeo set me straight. The Hero they are offering is The Director's Cut DVD version.

Too bad. That DVD is crap.

[qunying]

Hi JGDragov,
How is the warranty of the product? the normal 90 days one?
have you had a chance to test out the VGA 1280x1024 output?

[JGDragov]

Originally posted by qunying
Hi JGDragov,
How is the warranty of the product? the normal 90 days one?
have you had a chance to test out the VGA 1280x1024 output?

The warranty is the same 90 day/1 year one that you see with most players. I did try out the 1280x1024 but I encountered a small problem. The image was downsized and even when I used the overscan function on my PJ there were still black bars on the side. I think this is referred to as pillarboxing.

The image at this output didn't appear to offer better PQ. Keep in mind that this is the maximum resolution of my PJ and not the native.

[Black Cat]

It sounds like this may be a player that will work with my projector. My Lightware projector has VGA in (no composit or DVI) so my best picture should come from a VGA player. Native resolution is xga 1024x768. Is that what I'll get with the VGA connection? Is that a progressive image or do I need to connect via a composit to get that?

I'm using a momitsu now because of it's VGA connection but I'm getting tired of the remote control (lack of control) issues. It does have a great picture though. I assume the NeuNeo will be similar to the Momitsu.

Any thoughts? Thanks for the info.

[JGDragov]

BCat,

I had the V880 and the images from both that and the HVD108 seemed identical. I used a VGA/component cable for the Momitsu and I use a straight VGA cable for the NeuNeo.

The XGA resolution (1024x768) via the VGA connection is what I have and yes, the image is progressive.

[qunying]

BCat,
yes, it works in 1024x768 with progressive mode.

you could download the manual to have some idea of the unit.
HVD 108 Manual (http://www.neuneo.com/download/HVD108_User_Manual1.zip)

I just got my unit. but don't have HVD disc.

anyway, the pictures are good, I use a 17" LCD monitor (1280x1024) in stead of those overpriced LCD TV. (my room is small, and the big one is a little pricy for me). Soundwise I connected it to my H/K 130 using an optical link. Everything works through the digital link, Dolby Digital, DTS, CD, MP3).

[Huey]

Some independent review of this unit:
http://www.cdrinfo.com/Sections/Reviews/Specific.aspx?ArticleId=11171
20% off coupon:
http://www.neuneo.com/special/ynnbacc0pc0.htm

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by Huey
Some independent review of this unit:
http://www.cdrinfo.com/Sections/Reviews/Specific.aspx?ArticleId=11171

Not really a review so much as an advertisement. I see hardly any qualitative analysis of the unit's playback performance, other than a single error correction test.

[JmyBryan]

I bit the bullet and bought one after the fiasco with Gochnauers over the DVB 318. It should be arriving today. I asked for $206 shipped price in an email and they gave it to me. I don't think they'll have a problem with me disclosing this as they sent me a 20% off email coupon today. I'll post my thoughts on the player in a couple of days.

[YeOj]

Well, I went ahead and pulled the trigger on this player as well. I have a panny l300u and currently use a Liteon LVD-2001 to upconvert to 1080i. I'm hoping the Neuneo will shoot a better picture without the added EE from the liteon.

JGDragov, can you be a little more specific as to what you mean by decent on the audio quality. Also, have you noticed any pixel cropping with this player? I noticed over on the Secrets review that it supposedly crops 6 pixels on the left/right side and 5 pixels on the bottom. Can you confirm this?

thanks,

Joey

[JGDragov]

Joey,

The audio on this player doesn't seem as strong as my Yamakawa's. It doesn't break up or sound bad, it's just that it's not as loud for lack of a better word. Turning up the volume on my receiver pretty much solves the issue. Keep in mind that I don't utilize the 5.1 channel surround or coaxial outputs.

As far as the pixel cropping I can't confirm this as I have never looked for it. I guess it can't be that obvious if I haven't noticed it yet. Ill probably watch a movie on it tomorrow and I'll see if I notice it.

Jeff

[JmyBryan]

Thoughts on the player thus far.

Had some difficulty with the setup as the optical out doesn't work. The plastic insert that protects the connection was broken when I opened the box, so I half expected some problem. I'm using the coax output now without any difficulty.

The other criticism was that some of the settings didn't take right away. For example, when I switched from NTSC to HD, it didn't work the first couple of times. It seems like there may be particular sequences that may cause the player to recognize different settings, but the manual is very sparse.

I am very satisfied with the picture and sound. My previous DVD player was a JVC XV-F80. The picture looks really great. The upconverting really makes some DVDs that I made from bad quality VHS tapes look great on my Widescreen Mits. The colors seem vibrant and I don't notice any problem with the blacks.

I watched Hellboy last night (which was pretty good, if you like comic book movies). The sound was at least a good as my previous player. I didn't crank the movie, but it was easily as loud as my JVC.

Other than the broken optical output, I am happy with the player. I very much enjoy the upconversion. This is exactly what I wanted because I do not have DVI capability on my older Mitsubishi set.

Criticisms: The remote is nothing special but pretty easy to do FF, RW and chapter skip. It has no pause button, so you have to stop. It has no phosphorus, so you have to know where you put it in the dark.

Because you have to stop you are taken to the NeoNeo main DVD screen. Unfortunately, there is no screen saver. Easy to get a good screen burn because of this. The next version should include a default screen saver to come on in a few minutes.

[qunying]

press the menu key, when you want to pause, then resume play when ready.

I think when there is no disc in the player, you could switch mode easily. Once a disc is playing, switching seems not working.

[JGDragov]

I wonder if they have changed the remote control recently. I say that because my remote has a pause button.

It is located between the mute and random buttons marked STEP/PAUSE. I have used it and it has produced a still picture just like my other dvd players. Has anyone else gotten a remote without a pause button?

[qunying]

mime has the pause button, just as yours. i did not check the remote when replying the msg. did not use it so far. :)

[JmyBryan]

Dragov is right. I'm an idiot. I haven't studied the remote all that carefully. Anyway be aware it's not labelled by the [ll] designation.

[qunying]

Just got a promotion email from NeuNeo. They are giving "Star War Trilogy" free with purchase of a unit.

There are also other titles if you already have "star war trilogy"

Details Click Here (http://www.neuneo.com/special/dvds/)

[Josh Z]

So I hear that HVDs are for sale in shops in China (but not yet Hong Kong), including some English language titles. Anyone seen places online to order from yet?

[hoops10]

This player sounds great. I currently use the Sanyo Z1 and it has both composite and VGA inputs on it (No DVI.) Anyone with a Sanyo Z1 using this player? Does this player up-convert over both component and VGA outputs? I ask because I already have a long VGA cable that is run and currently not being used. Any comments from non Z1 owners as to how you think this player would work with my Z1? Thanks.

[michaelg299]

Hoops, I agree this player sounds great. I am looking for something to replace my dead Liteon, and this may be it. Can someone tell me if the VGA out to VGA in is a digital connection like DVI is? If so, can I output VGA to my Sammy DLP thru the PC input( 15 pin)? Or I can always use component like the Liteon. I wonder what happened to the 20% off coupon offered a couple of weeks ago. Replaced with Star Wars Trilogy I assume.

[tubby]

Sorry if I didnt catch this but does it have DVI or HDMI? Thanks.

[hoops10]

Let me answer my own questions as I checked out their website. Please, though correct if I'm wrong. Yes, this player up-converts from both VGA and component outputs. If there are any Z1 owners out there, please give any input if you are using this dvd player.

michaelg299: I believe that the VGA output is analog, not digital. I think the only true digital to digital connections are DVI and HDMI.

[JGDragov]

Just to touch on the last few posts.

Yes the HVD108 upconverts through component and VGA out. I don't have a Z1 but the fact that this player upconverts without use of DVI should be a huge plus for non-DVI ported PJs.

A suggestion for anyone looking for the 20% off would be to email NeuNeo's CS and ask that if they would still honor this offer. I did the same when it was a $25 off promo that expired and they obliged. I would also ask for an HVD disc instead of the Trilogy as to get them to honor the discount and you get to see the amazing PQ of this format.

No, this unit does not have DVI or HDMI. Like I posted the VGA port(15 pin) will get you your upconverted image.

[JmyBryan]

I've had mine for a week or so now and I must say I am very satisfied. I have been making dvds from my old vhs tapes and I love the way the upconversion makes the picture look on my widescreen. I will probably buy another one in a few months for a spare. I use mine on a rear pj, so I don't know about the VGA. If you want my advice, buy it. I would recommend to anyone unless they needed DVI.

[bootron]

i didn't go back and check the website but this player does convert over vga, but not like component. it converts to 1280x1024.

[michaelg299]

I got an email from Neuneo about next weeks promo. He said it will be free shipping. Saves you about $30. I don't know if it still includes the free DVD's though. I'm not a big Star Wars fan anyway.

[goldenegg]

I have some questions which I didn't see covered in this thread.

1) Does this unit exhibit the chroma bug?
2) Is there any macroblocking?
3) Can 4:3 material be pillar boxed?
4) Can you select between SD/HD color matrix? If not, which one is used?

[YeOj]

Well, my player came this past wed. and it arrived in one piece. My optical out works just fine unlike JmyBryan's. I was using a liteon lvd-2001 with my Panasonic L300u and I must say the picture is noticeably sharper. Also, the dreaded right sided EE that the liteon adds during upconversion is nowhere to be seen on the Neuneo. The sound quality of the player using the optical out is great... far superior to the liteon. The liteon had some audio popping issues during menu changes and this player does not. The dvd tray is fine as long as your careful while loading the disc, so this did not bother me as much as I thought it would. The remote control is decent, but I'm using an lcd learning remote with my setup. Overall I would rate this an excellent player if your display does not have a HDCP compliant dvi connection. The picture it puts out at 1080i is awesome and it's what the Liteon should have been. I have found no issues with it so far... If the build quality of this player lasts, I hope this will be my last dvd player purchase until HD-DVD emerges.

[michaelg299]

Thanks for your thoughts on the neuneo. I am replacing a lvd-2001 also, I hope this player has a better build than the Liteon. I replaced the drive in my Liteon, it is working now, but still wan't something better. This might be it. YeOj, how long did it take to get your neuneo?

[YeOj]

Michael,

It took 5 business days to get to me. If the free shipping promo is going then you'll get a better deal than me. I only got 20% off, the shipping is like $32. Post your thoughts on the player here after you get it. I really think you'll be impressed coming from the Liteon. It's a pretty noticeable difference in PQ and it doesn't have any of the weird quirks that the liteon has.

later

[MOTOMATTA]

do they have a return policy? I e-mailed 2 days ago no reply , I can't find a phone # on there site or a return policy
thnx for any help

[JGDragov]

Originally posted by MOTOMATTA
do they have a return policy? I e-mailed 2 days ago no reply , I can't find a phone # on there site or a return policy
thnx for any help

This was my first question to them as well and like yourself I got no reply. I sent a second email asking them again and also asking for a phone number. A dude named Peter(I'm assuming dude) sent me an email saying that they take back any damaged players but you eat the shipping charges. They will either replace the unit or refund the cost.

As far as a number he said they didn't have one for customer service. I wasn't thrilled with that response but I can tell you that they have been very customer friendly and accommodating. The player got here in a few days and they have been very responsive with thier emails since. I have just sent them an email asking when the new firmware will be available and if they have anymore HVD movies. I'll post their response when I get it.

[MOTOMATTA]

JGDragov
thnx for reply :-)

[MOTOMATTA]

1. anyone try the HVD108 with a benq PE8700 front projector?
2. what size screen do you ues if you have a front projector?
I will be using component because I love using my av for switching
Thnx for any info

[greeno]

With most of these chinese made players, once you get a working player, you're on your own. with the older sigma 8500 based neuneo, that was how it was. Some new firmwares emerged, but they came from other places (other euopean clones).

I bought the dreamx-108 and was pretty happy with it. these players are cheap enough that if they last a couple of years, then you've gotten your money out of it.

Neuneo is really good about making sure you're delivered a working player. That's the most important thing. We used to correspond with "Roy".

Best,
jeff

[JGDragov]

Here is the response I got from NeuNeo about my firmware and HVD movies email.


Hi Jeff:

Yes we will post the new firmware on our website soon. Please bear with us as our website is undergoing major revamp as well.

As for HVD movies, currently we only have the following titles:

- Warriors of heaven and earth
- May August
- The Watcher
- The migrating birds

Let me know if you are interested in any of the titles.

Regards,
Roy
NeoDigits.com


I'm probably going to get the other three titles, I already have the Migrating Birds. Anybody familar with the other titles? I know "The Watcher" isn't the James Spader/Keanu Reeves flick as these are no doubt foreign titles. I'll let you guys know the cost of these discs as soon as they get back to me.

[hoops10]

JGDragov: Any idea what the new firmware will fix/improve? I am very close to ordering this dvd player as I like that it can upconvert via VGA. Also, do you know what specials they have going on this dvd player right now or where I can check their current specials? Thanks.

[michaelg299]

Free shipping:http://www.neuneo.com/special/freeshipping/

[JGDragov]

Originally posted by hoops10
JGDragov: Any idea what the new firmware will fix/improve? I am very close to ordering this dvd player as I like that it can upconvert via VGA. Also, do you know what specials they have going on this dvd player right now or where I can check their current specials? Thanks.

When I got this unit in October the only complaint/issue I reported to NeuNeo was the problems I was having with my Alien Qudrilogy set( The SE and DC logos were being shown during the movie whether I activated them or not).

In an email sent back to me I was told that this unit had a couple of bugs, one of which is what I was experiencing, and that the new firmware would resolve these issues. I don't know what other bugs this player might be exhibiting but I'm glad they seem to be addressing them through the new firmware.

A question to owners of the HVD108: Has anyone experienced any problems with their player and reported it to NeuNeo? If so, were you told the new firmware upgrade would fix them?

Lastly, I get their current specials and promos via email since I signed up for them. The special michaelg299 has shown allows you to get the 108 for under $200 total and that's as good a deal as I've seen for this player.

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by JGDragov
- Warriors of heaven and earth
- May August
- The Watcher
- The migrating birds

I'm probably going to get the other three titles, I already have the Migrating Birds. Anybody familar with the other titles? I know "The Watcher" isn't the James Spader/Keanu Reeves flick as these are no doubt foreign titles. I'll let you guys know the cost of these discs as soon as they get back to me.

I'd kill for a copy of Migrating Birds! Please let me know how I can get one from him.

Warriors of Heaven & Earth is a Chinese historical adventure movie similar to Crouching Tiger or Hero (though reportedly not nearly as good).

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0374330/

I assume the HVD will have no English subtitles.

[JGDragov]

Originally posted by Josh Z
I'd kill for a copy of Migrating Birds! Please let me know how I can get one from him.

Warriors of Heaven & Earth is a Chinese historical adventure movie similar to Crouching Tiger or Hero (though reportedly not nearly as good).

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0374330/

I assume the HVD will have no English subtitles.

Josh,

The HVDs are going to sell for $10 and they are going to put them on their site for customers to order. In the meantime you can just let them know which movies you want via email. This is the good news.

The bad news is shipping is $18.00 via DHL. I don't think this is terrible, but it's a little pricey. Still, $28.00 for Winged Migration is better than having to "kill for a copy" ;)

[Josh Z]

I'd pay that, especially if I can save on shipping by ordering multiple discs. Is this the neuneo.com web site?

[Heavy Mettle]

Is the tray not opening all the way a big issue for those that have this player? Thanks.

[JGDragov]

Yeah Josh that's the site but you can just send an email to Roy(orders@neuneo.com) and tell him what you want. The movies are still not up on their site yet.

Mettle, as far as the tray goes it's pretty much a non issue. I've never had a problem with any discs and I doubt it will be a problem for you.

[Heavy Mettle]

Thanks JG.That's good news.

[Huey]

Well, Santa delivered my HVD108 from Neuneo.com. It came 5 business days after order via Paypal (the only credit card form of payment). Roy answered emails quickly. It's double-boxed with brown outside saying Neuneo and white box inside without any picture printed on it. There was a hole punch through both boxes the size of a quarter compliment of DHL but luckily no damage inside.

Player is very slim and thin. Tray drawer comes out only about 3/4 of the way so you have to slide your discs in with small chance of scratching (plastic on plastic is not that scratchable). Tray opens quickly and quietly. Load time is quicker than Zenith DVB-318 or LiteON LVD-2001. It has all the necessary buttons on top in case you lose your remote. It has nice display panel with blue LCD (perfectly bright and not too distractingly bright).

Sound is perfect via Coaxial (have not tested optical yet) for passing DTS or DD. It can decode both DTS and coaxial but I have not tested this yet. Sound level and quality sound the same as my Zenith DVB-318 which are both slightly louder that LVD-2001. There is no popping noises with chapter changes like LVD-2001. Channel separation sounds the same as Zenith.

Video is A-B comparing 2 identical discs of Starwars Episode II and component switching receiver comparing Zenith DVB-318 (1080i component) and HVD-108 (1080i which is sharper than 720p component and better colors than XGA on my XGA DLP using Video Essential test patterns). XGA is not as nice as component 1080i for color saturation, adjustability on my PJ (LT150 XGA DLP), or smoothness (more jaggies on XGA than 1080i) using decent HD15 male-HD15 male 3 foot cabling to PJ.

Got to go. Further review to follow.

[Huey]

Sorry, had to go do a scope. Anyways, XGA is not good because 1) it tends to be darker, 2) colors are less saturated, 3) vertical aspect ratio is slightly squished on my PJ, and 4) I can only use 4:3 letterbox mode on XGA as my PJ does not do the anamorphic squeeze in XGA mode (Roy already told me this on a prior email). 1080i component is very good however. 720p is also good but not as sharp as 1080i. Its 720p is much better than LVD-2001 as its 720p is very very soft, and slightly better than Zenith DVB-318 720p (no color bleeding like Zenith). This player is definitely better than LVD-2001 in every way so I won't be A-B'ing it and LVD-2001, but I will compare its 1080i component to Zenith DVB-318 1080i component.

Color: HVD108 wins. Zenith tend to be brighter and has a very mild green cast unless you choose SD color matrix which then corrects this. HVD108 however looks better on HD color matrix on my LT150. Its colors are more saturated, correct, and natural. I do have the FL-D filter on my PJ which filters out 1/2 of the green light and enhances the red light so I had to recalibrate this player and Zenith to match each other as much as possible, but still HVD108 wins in the color department.

Sharpness: Zenith is ever so slightly sharper with smoother edges. HVD has occasional jaggies with moving diagonal lines like a passing car or ship. This is probably due to the superior deinterlacer of Zenith (Faroudja). HVD is no slouch though as it does a decent job.

Black level: HVD108 wins. It may be too dark on some scene. Zenith as you know has a higher black level and even crushes whites on its DVI output. In component, Zenith tends to be a little bright but does not crush whites significantly. With recalibration, Zenith's whites are good but still its black level is not as dark as HVD108. Secret's review already commented that HVD108 does not pass pluge (blacker than black) and possibly even crushes blacks slightly. This may be why HVD108's blacks is darker. You can't control the colors, brightness, or contrast on HVD108 (unlike LVD-2001 and other Sigma players that let you adjust these levels). On my setup, it does tend to crush blacks slightly but not noticeable on most scenes (only on Video Essential black level section). In my eyes, the dark blacks make calibration easier as you can always increase brightness and tame blacks easier than crush whites.

White level: HVD108 wins because Zenith tends to be too bright (almost crushing whites unless you tone down your contrast or brightness on your display).

Deinterlacing: Zenith wins hands down due to Faroudja. No surprise here. HVD108 does a decent job but does not pass the waving flag test on Video Essential. No obvious combing on a few video tittles I tried (Pokemon TV series on DVD).

Aspect ratio: both do not have auto-aspect control. LVD-2001 has nice auto-aspect control.

Sound: same on digital output (Zenith on optical and HVD108 on coaxial). HVD108 has DD/DTS decoding for those with older receivers or 5.1 channel amps. No popping noise like LVD-2001 with chapter changes or searching.

Price: Zenith wins ($160 is better than $200 shipped for HVD108 with their free shipping coupon)

Durability: Zenith should win though too early to tell. I trust LG over Neuneo.

Appearance: Neuneo is really slim and cool looking IMHO.

Remote: Zenith. Neuneo's remote is finiky (can't bounce off front screen with players in the back of the room like Zenith).

Compatibility: Neuneo should win with HVD support and all main disc types.

Features: Neuneo with VGA (all the way to SXGA) and upconverting component should win over Zenith. It also decodes DD and DTS which is a bonus for those that needs it. It has speaker size, distance, and level adjustments. Zenith has nice autoplay though it can lock up on some tittles with finicky menus. Neuneo remembers your location even when turned off or unplug (kinda like HTPC using bookmars which you can also set with Neuneo). Region free is nice on HVD108 but not macrovision free like LVD-2001. Zenith does not have region free unless you hack it with unofficial firmware (scary to me). It does not support DivX unlike LVD-2001. It can do PAL<-->NTSC conversion. It supports 480p and 576p with component along with 480i via Svideo and composite.

Overall image: Zenith still win overall due to slightly sharper image especially with distant objects. HVD108 has occasional jaggies on moving diagonal lines while Zenith with its superior deinterlacer wins. Zenith tend to look better in dark scenes due to its bright nature, and HVD108 looks better on bright scenes due to its subdued whites. HVD108 has more film like appearance and subdues edge-enhancement more. I suspect HVD108 has a superior scaler but worst deinterlacer. Of course no macroblocking with HVD108 and Zenith has some rare MB on rare scenes.

So which one would I buy if I had to choose one: Zenith DVB-318 as it's cheaper, avail. here in USA, and better in my eyes, but I would be glad to have Neuneo as a backup as I hope my LT150 keeps on ticking a little while longer so I need upconverting component. Reality is unless you have the 2 to A-B, you would be hard press to pick one over the other. You may even choose HVD108 as it has more saturated, better colors; though I prefer the sharper, perfect deinterlacing of Zenith. I can run a VGA cable out of HVD108 to my monitor of my HTPC close by if I want to play a quick movie without firing up my PJ. I just have to hit the VGA button on my remote to cycles between VGA, SVGA, XGA, and SXGA (XGA seems best of all modes on my 17" CRT monitor). The HD button cycles between 720p and 1080i. LVD-2001 can't keep up with the big boys.

Just my 2 cents. Hope it helps someone.

[Chris Gerhard]

Huey, I appreciate your comparison of this player to the Zenith DVB318. Have you been able to come up with an opinion on the new Oppo OPDV-971H and how it might compare to the NeuNeo?

Chris

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by JGDragov
Yeah Josh that's the site but you can just send an email to Roy(orders@neuneo.com) and tell him what you want. The movies are still not up on their site yet.

JGDragov, I sent an email to that address about a week ago but never heard back. Are they generally responsive?

[Huey]

I have not seen the Oppo but its backbone is great as it has FLI2310 which is the higher up model from the FLI2301 of Zenith DVB-318. I suspect it should be a good buy for $199+shipping for upconverting DVI-HDCP and DIVX support. I needed upconverting component to backup my Zenith in case it breaks or for foreign movie tittles (LiteON LVD-2001 image is just not adequate for me, but for $140 (last year) or $69 currently (Norcent 501M) at buy.com it's still a great buy), and wanted to try XGA output of the Neuneo. If I had DVI-HDCP capable display I would have tried Oppo instead, but since I don't have DVI at all on my PJ, I settle for Neuneo to compliment my Zenith 318.

[Chris Gerhard]

Originally posted by Huey
I have not seen the Oppo but its backbone is great as it has FLI2310 which is the higher up model from the FLI2301 of Zenith DVB-318.

All references I have seen show the Zenith DVB318 to have the FLI2310 and not the FLI2301. This includes the Extremephoto site comparing the Oppo to the DVB318.

http://www.extremephono.com/Oppo_DV971.htm

Chris

[Huey]

I stand corrected. I was confusing Denon 1910 with Zenith 318. Secrets Shootout does confirm that Zenith has FLI2310 and not FLI2301.

[hoops10]

Huey, how did the NeuNeo do when you tested it with the VGA output? How did the up-converting from standard DVD to HD look?

[JGDragov]

Originally posted by Josh Z
JGDragov, I sent an email to that address about a week ago but never heard back. Are they generally responsive?

Josh,
They have done this on a couple of emails I've had in to them but on the vast majority they have gotten right back to me. If you go to their site and go to their "contact us" section you can send an email to their information center. Maybe this will net you a quicker response than the email address I gave you.

[Huey]

Neuneo HVD108 does fine on VGA/SVGA/XGA/SXGA (XGA is my PJ native resolution so it looks best of all the VGA resolutions) except I prefer 1080i component over XGA due to 1) better colors, 2) XGA image is darker (crushing blacks more--component crushes blacks a little but only noticeable on calibrating DVDs like Video Essentials or Avia), 3) vertical aspect ratio on XGA is slightly squished on my PJ (not sure why), 4) my PJ can't do the anamorphic (16:9 or cinema mode) squeeze on XGA (only on component input) so XGA (in 4:3 display mode--otherwise image is vertically stretched for anamorphic tittles) basically discards 1/3 of the vertical resolutions on anamorphic DVD tittles for my PJ. If you have a CRT PJ or if your PJ can do the "squeeze" on VGA then it may work better for you. CRT PJ of course can vary its aspect ratio easily by squishing or unsquishing incrementally the vertical (or horizontal for that matter) aspect ratio.

You can change output of the HVD108 as easily as pushing the HD button on the remote or on top of the player (in case you lose the remote) to cycle between the 720p and 1080i resolutions and the VGA button for the VGA/SVGA/XGA/SXGA resolutions. You can also choose this by pushing setup button and choose the resolution in the menu (480p, 576p, 720p, 1080i, VGA, SVGA, XGA, SXGA, in this order).

I like the fact that the player has ALL the buttons on the top of the player so if your remote is lost or broke, you can still use the DVD fully with all the options. I actually have the VGA output hooked to my 17" HTPC CRT monitor for quick movies without firing the PJ up--very convenient. I do wish the player has some color controls like brightness, contrast, gamma, saturation, etc. I also wish it can do the anamorphic squeeze like HTPC to take advantage of anamorphic DVD titttles. HTPC still beats both HVD108 and Zenith DVB-318 but only narrowly. I only use HTPC now for fun and tweaking, and use the upconverting players mainly (all 3 (LiteON LVD-2001 for DivX, Zenith for most movies, HVD108 for backup in case certain movies would not play on Zenith) hooked to component switching receiver).

[hoops10]

Huey, I have the Sanyo Z1 pj and I think the resolution is 952x540, it's a native 16:9 pj. Do you think that the VGA would work better with this pj or the component when upscaling dvds?

[Huey]

I would vote for 1080i via component as it's very close to 540p which is your PJ native resolution. VGA 's closest match would be SVGA (800X600) and I don't think the image would be as good as component 1080i. Most PJ allows more calibration via component and less so on VGA. VGA is meant generally for PC which can control its colors via software. Since this player has no color controls, I would advise component output so you can adjust or calibrate better for your PJ.

[hoops10]

What are the current specials running for the NeuNeo HVD108 right now?

[Huey]

$199 shipped (normally $35) for DHL. It came less than 5 days after I ordered via Paypal (only credit card way to pay for this player). Pretty fast for considering the distance. I intially thought it came from the far east but I think it came from New York which may be its distribution center for the USA (my box has originating as New York). There was free box set of Star Wars episodes 4-6 but I rather have free shipping as I already own this set. They sometimes throw in a free HVD but they didn't on my order.

I played with this more on my 17" CRT monitor. Even with the brightness and saturation set on its highest levels, this player crushes blacks on VGA output and image is noticably darker than 1080i component. May be fixable via firmware upgrade later (I hope--I will email them to ask). 1080i component gives an overall better image on my XGA DLP with better color saturation, more normal brightness (still crushes blacks mildly on calibrating DVD--not noticeable movies, but not as bad as VGA output), smoother edges (less jaggies than XGA output), and slightly sharper image than XGA.

[cobra1993ky]

Hello Huey. I am just across the river in Louisville KY. I have a question for you and would like your opinion. I have a Sanyo Z3 front projector and I am using a cheapie toshiba dvd player at 480p via component output to my Z3. Do you think there would be picture quality advantage with the NeuNeo or Zenith 318 with 1080i or 720p, over my toshiba 480p ? Dan

[Chris Gerhard]

Cobra, I have the Panasonic PT-L500U, a 720p LCD front projector and found the DVB318 to be an improvement with many DVDs, although far from all DVDs. It will be a crap shoot, but overall, I think you will be happy with an upconverting player and that projector. It is unlikely you will like the 720p performance of the DVB318, I didn't and use it set at 1080i but the results are very good which is all I wanted. An upconverting player that does a better job of upscaling to 720p, might be best but I couldn't come up with an inexpensive one.

Chris

[cobra1993ky]

Chris, so your Zenith 318 upscaled at 1080i has a better pic than your previous 480p player? I want to know if I will see an improvement in pic quality, by using an upscaling player vs a 480p player or is there virtually no difference, since dvd's are 480i native format.

[Chris Gerhard]

Originally posted by cobra1993ky
Chris, so your Zenith 318 upscaled at 1080i has a better pic than your previous 480p player? I want to know if I will see an improvement in pic quality, by using an upscaling player vs a 480p player or is there virtually no difference, since dvd's are 480i native format.

For most DVDs, yes. The only way you are going to know is to see for yourself. If you are expecting a night and day difference, you are not likely to see that. I have found the DVD player to be worth the purchase price for me. If I only had one DVD player, I might not be happy with the DVB318 as some DVDs just look terrible on a big screen projector with that player. It is true the same DVDs don't look good on any big screen but in my opinion, a bad DVD looks even worse upscaled and the 480p performance is sub-par with the DVB318. Fortunately I have another display and DVD player for DVDs that don't do well with upconversion. The Godfather Trilogy is an example. It looks ok in 480p with another player but really bad with my projector and DVB318. There are other examples.

Chris

[cobra1993ky]

Thanks. I think I will try one if I can find it.

[Huey]

Sorry, been away. Cobra1993ky, I agree with Chris that a 720p or 1080i will be better for your Sanyo Z3 than 480p. The only thing better than upconverting player is HTPC (Home Theater Computer) outputting your native resolution of 1280X720. The Zenith 318 which I have can do 720p but 1080i is better (sharper when I tested it using sharpness calibrating Video Essentials DVD). This holds true for the Neuneo HVD108 as well although not as large of an improvement as Zenith. In other words, Neuneo 720p is better than Zenith 720p as far as sharpness goes. I also own LVD-2001 upconverting player and it is by far the worst of the upconverting player. Its 720p is basically very soft and its 1080i is much, much better. Still its 1080i is worse than the other 2 players forementioned. If your Z3 has HDMI or DVI, I would advise the Panasonic S97, Samsung HD941, or Sony DVP-NS975 (or something like that such as Denon 2910 or 3910, Marantz, Onkyo, Yamaha for much more money). I don't have DVI so that's why I am messing with these other upconvering players which should be worse than DVI upconversion. Zenith DVI crushes whites which as been corrected somewhat with recent firmware upgrades (disables component upconversion). Some people want to save DVI for HDTV and use component for their DVD players. If this is the case Zenith 318 and Neuneo HVD108 (also output VGA/SVGA/XGA/SXGA but not as good as its 1080i component) are your best bet. Momitsu v880 will also upconvert via component and VGA (using DVI-I to HD15 VGA $10 plug converter) but it's softer and has rightsided EE due to its Sigma 8500 chipset. Its DVI is cleaner but it's build quality or reliability is worse than name brand players.

By the way, I opened up the Neuneo HVD108 and it's pretty well built. The DVD loader is proprietary (not PC based) so when it goes it will be difficult to replace (have to send it back for repair). Its powersupply seems standard with a standard, user replaceable, cylindrical fuse (so if it goes dead may want to check here first). There was no ferrite cores anywhere (Zenith has ferrite core on its power cord on the inside); thus, I added my own :D to the powersupply cable from the powersupply board to the video board and loader (one magnet can wrap around both cables). I also build an aluminum shield wall to separate the power supply from the rest of the player. I don't know if this helped but I think it cleaned up 1080i ever so slightly on the resolution test image of my Video Essential DVD (or at least I convinced myself of this--either way it makes me happy and can't hurt).

The video board has a large heatsink over the AMLogic chip (assumed as I did not see it anywhere else and I did not pry the heatsink off (glued on). The heatsink was barely warm with the player going after 2 hour movie so it works well. I doubt heat will ever be an issue with this player. There was another big square chip that I did not recognize so I stuck a small heatsink on it too ($3 from Radioshack) :D The player's arrangement was clean with all cables tied off and secured to bottom of case with plenty of room for air cooling (no fan noted). Overall, I felt the player was of decent build.

[Huey]

Free shipping link (must buy through this link to get free shipping--$35 savings): http://www.neuneo.com/default.asp?idAff=454&idProduct=13 (click on buy now button on page that opens)

[High Def 03]

How does this player compare with the denon 1910?

[cobra1993ky]

Your point of going with a better player with DVI or HDMI is a good point, as the Z3 has a HDMI input . The reason I was afraid to use these inputs, is that I have read that many Z3 owners have had problems using the HDMI port with 1080i. It is for this reason that I was considering the Zenith 318 or the Neo for 1080i output through component input of my Z3. Huey, how about I bring my Z3 over to your house and we can see what the difference is between HDMI and component. I am just across the river in Louisville. If my player had a digital out, I would try it, but it only has component out.

[Huey]

You're welcome to bring your Z3 to check out component out of my 3 upconverting player (Zenith DVB-318, Neuneo HVD108--forget the LVD-2001 as it's not adequate due to softness on 1080i). The Zenith is the only player with DVI output and the Neuneo (and of course the LVD-2001) does not have DVI at all. Neuneo has VGA output though which is not good for 1280X720 native resolution as it does not bypass your scaler. Thus, HDMI 720p is really the best with 1080i HDMI next to best. Component 1080i would be next best on my 2 players (better slightly than 720p).

DVI can be changed to HDMI using a DVI-D male to HDMI male. The DVI-D male will plug into my Zenith DVB-318 and the male HDMI into your Sanyo Z3. Unfortunately I don't own this cable which can run $120 at http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Monster-Cable-HDMI-to-DVI-Cable--HDMI400-DVI-2M-/sem/rpsm/oid/90868/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do http://www.circuitcity.com/IMAGE/product/detail/moc/EC.MOC.HDMI400DVI2M.JPG. Bestbuy has the same for same pricing. You can find it online cheaper but it will be tougher to return as you will only need this for our get together. Ideally, you can find a native HDMI DVD player like the Sony 975 with HDMI and just plug that sucker into your Sanyo Z3 using a HDMI to HDMI cable. HDMI has the advantage of longer runs and audio capability which most of us don't need as we pipe audio into our receiver anyways. If you don't mind buying it, using it with my player, and then returning it (as you may not need it for your setup), then bring it on :D My HT is modest (NEC LT150 XGA DLP--modified with blackened clear segment of the colorwheel in a hushbox projecting onto 96X54 Video Spectra screen), but I'll be glad to share with a local HT enthusiast. You can email me for directions at h.u.e.y.t.n.g.u.y.e.n at j.u.n.o dot c.o.m (take off the periods of course--done to avert junkmail spybots).

With above said, I would not hesitate buying a $300 HDMI upconverting player (Sony 975, Panny S97, or Samsung 941) to try with your Sanyo Z3 as it should work fine at 720p or 1080i and not too expensive compared to the Denon, Onkyo, Marantz, etc. The other point is that since your Z3 is much, much more expensive than my Zenith DVB-318 and Neuneo HVD108, it may be safer for me to bring my players to your house (to safeguard your precious new PJ from bumps with travel, dropping it from your mount, etc.) Plus, my wife may feel better that I don't bring a stranger from the internet to our house :D. Since I have a longer track record here on AVSForum than you, may be you can trust me to come to your house :D

Edit: I just read the <$3500 PJ forum about Z3 and HDMI instability. The users there felt it's a firmware issue that Sanyo Service now has a fix. If your Z3 does not do 720p correctly via HDMI then you should send yours back for firmware upgrade as this is a flaw. Do this while you're still under warranty. Otherwise this PJ sounds like a sweeeet PJ (2000:1 contrast for a 1280X720 LCD PJ---amazing especially at 23db economode (compared to 39 db of my LT150 :( )

[biznus97]

Hey all,

I know a few of you are interested in the new firmware and I am too since I received one of these players for a great christmas gift. I e-mailed support and got this response from them:

"Hello there,

Yes the firmware is already available. Right now the engineer is testing our
machine with the firmware, probably in the end of this week or beginning of next
week I will get the final firmware and put it on our web site.

Feel free to let me know if you have any further questions.

Best Regards,

Roy
NeoDigits.com"

Hopefully we will see this very soon.

-Biz

[Huey]

Yeah, Roy said "soon" when I last emailed him complaining about brightness adjustments. He did not promised anything but he said he would suggest it to the higher ups. Let's hope they do brighten the image slightly as it would be easier to adjust brightness down than up for most monitor. Luckily my LT150 has plenty of brighness adjustments so it was not a problem for me.

[JGDragov]

Huey,

In your component connection to your LT150 are you using a regular component cable or a VGA/component cable? I never even tired the component connection as I just assumed the VGA port would deliver the best image. What is the resoulution of your PJ?

Josh,

Have you been able to acquire a copy of Winged Migration on HVD yet?

[Huey]

I use this cable: http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=90133205&loc=111&sp=1 to do component on my LT150 (XGA DLP with 1080i mode looking the best for me when I use calibrating discs like Avia or VE) http://ak.buy.com/db_assets/prod_images/205/90133205.jpg

This is a great cable for $6 + shipping (free shipping if over $25 total on your order)

VGA on LT150 is NOT the best except when using HTPC. This is because the Neuneo HVD108 outputs either 16:9 or 4:3 mode on its VGA image depending on the display type you choose in its menu. The 16:9 mode gives a vertically stretched (everyone is tall and skinny) and the 4:3 mode gives a normal picture but you lose 1/3 of the vertical resolution on anamorphic DVDs as the player threw these lines out to make the image aspect ratio correct. The LT150 does not have a 16:9 aspect ratio (cinema mode) on VGA sources so you would get a vertically stretched image from the HVD108's 16:9 display mode unless you chose the 4:3 display mode. Thus, if you choose the 4:3 mode of the HVD108 then you lose vertical resolution and the image is inferior. Thus, the 720p or 1080i is better (1080i looks best to me) as it allows you to choose 16:9 mode on both the DVD player and LT150 for taking advantage of the full anamorphic DVDs. Of course for nonanamorphic or 4:3 tittles then this point is moot. Other PJ can do the 16:9 mode on VGA input (like the NEC LT240K) and may preserve the anamorphic advantage on VGA output when PJ can squeeze the vertical image back to correct aspect ratio.

Besides, VGA output is darker and less saturated color-wise than component mode of HVD108. Thus, if you like its VGA you will LOVE its component. One advantage of VGA is its does not carry Macrovision so if you use a VGA to Svideo converter you could backup your DVDs :D

[hoops10]

Huey, do you think that you would see the same results if using a 25' regular component video cable (that is, components inputs on both sides)?

[Huey]

25' is nothing if your cable is decent. So yes you should be fine. Analog signals can travel a lot further than DVI digital signals. Check out Steren brand component for cheap but decent quality cabling: http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=90133208&loc=111&sp=1 http://ak.buy.com/db_assets/prod_images/208/90133208.jpg

[JGDragov]

Originally posted by Huey
I use this cable: http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=90133205&loc=111&sp=1 to do component on my LT150 (XGA DLP with 1080i mode looking the best for me when I use calibrating discs like Avia or VE) http://ak.buy.com/db_assets/prod_images/205/90133205.jpg

This is a great cable for $6 + shipping (free shipping if over $25 total on your order)

VGA on LT150 is NOT the best except when using HTPC. This is because the Neuneo HVD108 outputs either 16:9 or 4:3 mode on its VGA image depending on the display type you choose in its menu. The 16:9 mode gives a vertically stretched (everyone is tall and skinny) and the 4:3 mode gives a normal picture but you lose 1/3 of the vertical resolution on anamorphic DVDs as the player threw these lines out to make the image aspect ratio correct. The LT150 does not have a 16:9 aspect ratio (cinema mode) on VGA sources so you would get a vertically stretched image from the HVD108's 16:9 display mode unless you chose the 4:3 display mode. Thus, if you choose the 4:3 mode of the HVD108 then you lose vertical resolution and the image is inferior. Thus, the 720p or 1080i is better (1080i looks best to me) as it allows you to choose 16:9 mode on both the DVD player and LT150 for taking advantage of the full anamorphic DVDs. Of course for nonanamorphic or 4:3 tittles then this point is moot.

I already have a VGA/component breakout cable I use for my HD sat. reciever. Tomorrow(I'm too lazy tonight:rolleyes: ) I'll hook up the HVD108 from it's component out and run it at 1080i with this cable and see if I'm impressed.
I presently am using the VGA out and running the image at 720p which looks marginally better than 1080i. Maybe the picture can benefit from this as it's been pretty good already. I'll post my findings hopefully in the next couple of days.

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by JGDragov
Josh,

Have you been able to acquire a copy of Winged Migration on HVD yet?

No, still no response from the site. You have a copy to spare?

[rays]

I have had this player for about a month. It replaced a Zenith DVB318 that had terrible black macroblocking on my Panasonic plasma. I have noticed the player does a great job of upconverting to 1080i and 720P when playing film-based, major studio release dvds but has problems with video based DVDs and some lesser quality DVD transfers. Namely, there is a "stuttering" effect when there is motion in the scene. This goes away when switching resolution to NTSC 480i or 480p. Anyone else notice this?

[Huey]

This is because Zenith DVB318 has the famed DCDi FLI2310 which has THE best video deinterlacing today (DVDO Iscan is a close second--on film mode they both are equal by most opinions that I've read). Thus, Neuneo HVD108 is good but not as good as DCDi 2310 which is not a cheap chipset to obtain (relatively). Unfortunately, FLI2310 has macroblocking problems on all its players (Denon, Panasonic S97, Samsung HD941, Oppo, etc.--Sony 975 does not use FLI2310). Neuneo is good enough though and is excellent in film mode. It is noticeably inferior on video mode compared to Zenith and does not pass the waving flag test on Video Essentials (jaggies noticed on the stripes as the flag waved). It does not comb though which is much more objectionable than motion and jaggies artifacts.

By the way, Neuneo HVD108 newest firmware is out per email from Roy at Neuneo to me (and I'm sure other owners):

Hi Huey,

I am glad to tell you that the new firmware for our HD DVD player is ready, you can get it from below link:

http://www.neodigits.com/download/hvd108_1.zip

Put the 2 files inside the zip on a CD-R, put the disc into your DVD player, then press "play" to confirm the upgrade.
It will take 2-3 min's to perform the upgrade ( DO NOT POWER OFF THE PLAYER DURING UPGRADING). After the upgrade is finished, the disc tray
will be ejected and there will be 2 yellow Chinese character appear in the bottom left of the TV screen. Power off the player, then power on again.
You need to change the language setting back to English after the firmware upgrade.

Feel free to let me know if you have any further questions.

Merry X'mas!


Roy
NeoDigits.com

[tubby]

Originally posted by Huey
This is because Zenith DVB318 has the famed DCDi FLI2310 which has THE best video deinterlacing today (DVDO Iscan is a close second--on film mode they both are equal by most opinions that I've read). Thus, Neuneo HVD108 is good but not as good as DCDi 2310 which is not a cheap chipset to obtain (relatively). Unfortunately, FLI2310 has macroblocking problems on all its players (Denon, Panasonic S97, Samsung HD941, Oppo, etc.--Sony 975 does not use FLI2310). Neuneo is good enough though and is excellent in film mode. It is noticeably inferior on video mode compared to Zenith and does not pass the waving flag test on Video Essentials (jaggies noticed on the stripes as the flag waved). It does not comb though which is much more objectionable than motion and jaggies artifacts.

By the way, Neuneo HVD108 newest firmware is out per email from Roy at Neuneo to me (and I'm sure other owners):

What is combing? and how does it look on screen?

[Marco T]

Jay,

After 195 posts, you should be ashamed:D

Combing is exactly like it sounds, what the image would look like if you would run a coarse comb horizontaly through it, with corresponding bands of color and black.

Why do I bother..


http://www.cineplayer.com/technology/quality.htm

[Huey]

Just tried the new firmware: 2.2.0.3622 from the link that Roy from Neuneo gave me. It did what we requested: Neuneo HVD108 now has corrected brightnesss per component and especially VGA output. No more black crush on my setup. Of course I had to recalibrate as the player is now significantly brighter, and I had to turn down the brightness and contrast with this new firmware (I had to crank both way up to compensate for the darkness of the player originally). This mean that with the new firmware my brightness and contrast can stay near neutral which matches better with my other player (Zenith DVB-318) which I have ontop to change back and forth using a component switching receiver. Comparing the 2 on film-based DVD's are very close on picture quality with Zenith being a hair sharper (noticeable only on sharpness pattern on Video Essentials) due to its superior deinterlacer (Faroudja DCDi FLI2310). Unfortunately, Zenith does have minimal macroblocking on very dark scenes and tend to have a very slightly green tint noticeable on certain scenes. HVD108's color is spot on. Thus the 2 players are different but equally pleasing. Of course the Zenith is better for video tittles, and Neuneo is better for foreign tittles (region free) and can play HVD tittles.

A few hints on doing the firmware: 1) Unzip and burn the 2 files on CD-R (forget CD-RW as it can be more flaky than CD-R), finalize the disc, verify the burn to assure the data is correct, and push play to play the CD-R with HVD108. 2) Never unplug, eject, or turn off player during the firmware update as this will "kill" your player and may require factory reload of firmware. 3) After the DVD tray ejects open after the firmware is done, you have to flip the hard-off switch in the back of the player as the stand-by/soft-off and the eject buttons are UNRESPONSIVE after the firmware is done. This will reset/reboot the player to take the new firmware. 4) The menu is now in Chinese and has to be reset back to English. The Language menu is at the bottom on the master Setup screen (also detailed on your small manual) and English is the first of the 2 choices in the submenu (Chinese is the 2nd choice). This can be intimidating if you don't remember where the Language menu is, can't read Chinese, or if you misplaced your manual. 5) Sound may be reset to PCM stereo and Dolby Digital digital output choice has no check mark as before on the original firmware (probably an oversight on the new firmware) so you can't tell if DD is chosen or not (if DD is not chosen then the player only passes PCM stereo via its digital port). 6) Resolution has been reset so you may have to change it back to your favorite output (mine is 1080i via component on my XGA DLP (NEC LT150) as it is still sharper due to ability to take advantage of anamorphically enhanced DVDs and better colors than XGA).

[Dejoko]

Hi,

Also upgraded to the new firmware.

I found that the sound quality was not as loud in the previous firmware.

Anyone else notice this?

Regards

Dejoko

[tubby]

Originally posted by Marco T
Jay,

After 195 posts, you should be ashamed:D

Combing is exactly like it sounds, what the image would look like if you would run a coarse comb horizontaly through it, with corresponding bands of color and black.

Why do I bother..


http://www.cineplayer.com/technology/quality.htm
Thanks Marco.

[Huey]

I did not notice a change on digital output level but then again I did not quantify the sound level with a db reader. Maybe I'm more a videophile and not an audiophile. You could just crank up your receiver a couple of clicks to solve this issue as it is worth a sound drop (if you're correct as I did not notice it) to have correct brightness via VGA and component out.

[heavyharmonies]

Good to see the positive reports on this player. I've got one en route. I ordered it from NeoDigits on Dec. 10, and I STILL don't have the unit, so take their shipping claims with several hundred grains of salt. I had really hoped to have the unit in time to do extensive testing this past week and next week, but all bets are off. :(

I'm replacing a Zenith DVB318 because of green push and, power-up problems. I just tried the Toshiba V592 that has received such high scores in the December shootout, and its picture quality is horrendous.

If the NeuNeo bombs out, I'll say "screw it!" and save up for an Iscan HD/HD+.

-Dan

[Dejoko]

Hi heavyharmonies,

For what you are paying - this DVD player is the best bang for your bucks.

At the moment - there is no better DVD player.

Brand name or not from $$$$$

It will be my last purchase, unless neuneo bring out a better DVD player.

Cheers

Dejoko

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by tubby
What is combing? and how does it look on screen?

Everything you need to know about how progressive scan works:

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_7_4/dvd-benchmark-part-5-progressive-10-2000.html

[Big Hock]

Huey,

I am having the following problem http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=486523

and now I am wondering if my projector(Panny AE100) will work well with this NeuNeo. via VGA. Or if I should get the zenith dvb318 and a vga transcoder for best pq.

any advice?

thanks,

Gene in Colorado Springs

[Huey]

AE100 is best via VGA using a transcoder. Its component is softer. Best PQ for AE100 is native resolution 856X480 via a computer's VGA port. Neuneo does offer VGA (640X480), SVGA (800X600), XGA (1024X768), and SXGA (1280X1024), but does not offer anamorphic squeeze. This means unless your PJ can do the squeeze vertically on anamorphic tittles, you will either have to choose "4:3 display mode" on Neuneo which means the player throws out 1/3 of the vertical resolution to reformat to letterbox mode or live with vertically stretched image if you choose "16:9 display mode" on Neuneo. Thus, although Neuneo VGA is good, its component is better. I can't tell you which is better (Zenith 1080i component->VGA via transcoder or Neuneo 1080i component->VGA via transcoer or Neuneo VGA straight into AE100) as I have not tried these combinations, but my guess is Zenith 1080i component -> VGA via transcoder is best of these 3 choices (HTPC is still tops though). Neuneo 1080i component is also very good but does not have Faroudja so deinterlacing is not as clean on video tittles. Neuneo 1080i component is better than its VGA as it has richer colors and slightly brighter (you can increase the color saturation and brightness on your PJ to compensate), and sharper resolution due to the anamorphic advantage (most PJ can do the 16:9 squeeze on component mode, but some may not do the squeeze on VGA). Thus, if your PJ does the anamorphic squeeze (16:9 mode) on VGA to take advantage of anamorphic DVDs, then for sure get the Neuneo and try both VGA and component mode (VGA should be better IMHO if your PJ can do the squeeze on VGA--probably does as it's native 16:9). The other advantage is of course if you like the Neuneo VGA it will save you $100 for a transcoder (but Neuneo is $50 more than Zenith). You have some tough choices to make.

[Big Hock]

Thanks Huey for the fast response! I appreciate your advice. and yes I agree I have a tough choice to make.... I am leaning on the NeuNeo just so I can try the vga sans transcoder and see if I like the picture. If I dont I can hook up to my projector via component and live with that untill I purchase a transcoder.

do you know of a good vga transcoder I can purchase that is decently priced?

thanks

Gene

[Huey]

Go for the Neuneo and try as 1) I bet that your PJ can do the 16:9 squeeze on VGA as it is native 16:9 (852X480) and use Neuneo SVGA mode (down scale is better than upscale from your PJ), 2) transcoder (Key Digital for example) will run you $200 for a good one (RCA $100 is crappy, Nextvision 6 $150 is mediocre for video), 3) Region Free, 4) 1080i component is awesome though with a wide-VGA PJ, 480p component may be best to back up the VGA if you don't like VGA image, 5) If you do upgrade your PJ (and you will as your PJ is going on 4 years old), you will be ready for 1080i video.

Remember I prefer 1080i component because my 4:3 PJ does not do the squeeze on VGA and only on component. You need that squeeze to take advantage of anamorphic DVDs. Letterboxing just won't do (it's like watching nonanamorphic movies all the time :( ). You should not have this problem and may be just fine with SVGA output. The newest firmware is out and corrected the black levels of SVGA output so this is not an issue anymore. It will get to you in 5 days (free shipping which is $30 savings if you use their coupon--search here in this post on the last page for link--hurry as it ends soon).

Zenith is great but you really needs transcoder to make your AE100 shine. Here is a review of the Key Digital Transcoder: http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_11_4/key-digital-ctca3-transcoder-11-2004.html which is also the home of the Secrets DVD shootout (most comprehensive reviews of DVD players in the world).

[hearth]

A Couple of questions, if you don't mind.

1) I mostly watch TV shows on DVD; would the Zenith be better than this unit, because of the video mode difference? (I would use 1080i via component).

2) Curious about feedback on the PAL<-->NTSC functionality. I own several Region 2 PAL DVDs, and I wonder if they would look better on this player than on my current region-free player. Any feedback on this functionality would be appreciated.

3) The link for free shipping is now dead. Any current specials on this player?

Thanks!
Don

[Huey]

For video based tittles, DCDi of Zenith DVB318's 1080i component is king, but Neuneo does a good job too with rare jaggies and panning motion artifacts (no combing though).

Region 2 DVD will look better on Neuneo because of the 1080i component upconversion. It can do PAL->NTSC conversion.

Email support link at Neuneo about current specials. I guess the free shipping ended at Xmas time. Sorry :(

[dpoverlord]

Huey and everyone else here quick ?
I have been in the market for a dvd player for over a year now. I finally have about 250 saved up. I have a 47" Widescreen Panasonic HDTV and an onkyo reciever. THe only problem is that I dont have DVI just component cables and fiber optic. I have been tryign to figure out which dvd player is the best and I fell upon the HD Upconversion. I have been trying to do research on the momitsu, zenith, and the Neuneo players. All I care about is to get a better image than if I were going to use a standalone dvd Progressive player via compnent. I am goign to connect it to my reciever via fiber optical cables to get 6.1 sound.
What do you think would be the best player in the long run? I want it to be able to play burned SVCDS since I have my home videos in that format. Please any help you giv eme would be greatly appreciated since for the past 3 hours I have been banging my head to no avail? + you have all seen these players. Thanks a million
~Jonathan~

[dpoverlord]

I noticed everyone is saying the 318 but I can only find the 418 around and I only have component. I really want the best functionality in a dvd player that I wont have to bang my head and fix after speading the cash on it. What do you guys think for upconversion and best picture on svcds, and dvds(region 1 mainly).
Thanks,
Jonathan

[Huey]

LG418 does not have a Zenith brand and does not upconvert via component (only on DVI which you don't have). For your 16:9 Widescreen Panasonic CRT HDTV, I would recommend the Zenith DVB318 via 1080i component at this link: http://store.cousinsvideo.com/zen-dvb318.html (the photo listed is wrong but the model number is correct. Grab it and run as they may run out for $160 shipped). Amazon used to have it for $150 shipped but they are out. Bestbuy.com has it for $240 and you can return it locally. Good luck.

Neuneo is good but DCDi Zenith is a hair better and cheaper to boot. Neuneo reliability is unclear at this stage. I like it due to VGA output (though its 1080i component is better), no green push of Zenith (can be calibrated out), and region free. Not sure if Zenith can do SVCDs but Neuneo can being a Chinese player.

[Big Hock]

Does the NeuNeo still have free shipping? I was going to order it a few days ago and the shipping link worked but now sadly its not working for me? anyone know?

[Huey]

It quit working after Xmas. Sorry. Email Support and ask for free shipping and they may give it to you as they want to move the product.

Addendum to the above post: You have to hack the Zenith for it to play SVCD: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3803149#post3803149

There is also a region free hack for Zenith DVB318 if you search for LG6000 region hack on Google: http://lgregionfree.tripod.com/6000.zip

[dpoverlord]

huey how would you say this compares to the momitsu 880 deluxe?? it seems I am down to these 2. Other than that would you say these 2 players are the better choice for my 200$ price range if I want something better than a standard progressive scan player??

Thanks you guys are awesome

[JGDragov]

I just upgraded with the new firmware and PQ improvement appears minimal but the dvd "special edition" and "director's cut" logos no longer appear during playback on certain discs. This was my only problem that I had with the HVD108 so I'm pleased.

However one small thing I now notice since the upgrade is a widescreen issue. When viewing WS or LB dvds via 720p or 1080i there appears to be a lighter black color near the image. In other words the black bars are not as black a couple of inches on top and bottom of the picture. This is not the case via XGA and I was curious why. The last player I had that did the same thing was the V880. Could this have something to do with anamorphic dvds?

Lastly, to anyone bummed about the expiration of the free shipping offer. Like Huey said, an email to them requesting it to still be honored is the way to go. I ordered my unit when a then $25 off code had expired. I told them that I could only order the HVD108 if they still honored the discount and they did no problem. I even got an HVD to boot. One of this player's best features is it's affordability through these "promotions" so don't be afraid to hold them to them. I'm sure if you mention that without the discounts the price is comparable to a Momitsu they will be accomadating.

[dpoverlord]

Huey,
If you were to stack the 318 against the Momitsu What would you reccomend it seems that these are the two players I am torn between. I just keep on hearing stories about peoples 318 dying or the macrovision not working when upconverting via compnent. You seem an expert in this area and anyone please feel free to comment. Plan on buying one today or tommorow depending on what you guys say.
Jonathan
P.S. I have about 120 NTSC dvds, and 100 SVCDS, I would like to get Pal and some other dvds however my main set of dvds are store bought dvds in america, and some home made burned ones on my plextor Dvd burner. THanks!

[Huey]

JGDragov, I think the reason that the bars are more visible because they boosted the player's brightness to compensate for the black-crush on VGA. Thus component is now a little bright with VGA being more perfect. Just drop your display brightness until the bars go away and you're set. Unfortunately I can't use VGA as my PJ can't do 16:9 squeeze on VGA but only on component. Thus, I prefer 1080i component but you may do better on XGA on LT240K.

As far as this vs. Mooshitpoo, I would pick this for 1) cheaper, 2) no right-sided edge enhancement problem, 3) better remote.

As far as Zenith vs. Mooshitpoo, I would definitely pick Zenith. Zenith wins over Neuneo too if your display can calibrate out the green push and white crush.

Mooshitpoo can do DivX, macrovision free, non-HDCP DVI, RGBHV, custom resolutions, swappable DVD drive/loader so it has its advantages. It would be more competitive at sub-$200 range.

Zenith can do SVCD if you hack it. It will upconvert if you load older firmware on it or if you have an older build. As far as dying, I would rather have Zenith die than my Chinese players die as it's a lot easier to fix and return.

[dpoverlord]

huey,
I think I will get the Zenith after that reply. 1 las question it will play any dvd upconverted right? And do pal conversion and there are codes to be entered for stuff like svcds and the macro hack if not previously enabled

[heavyharmonies]

Just received my HVD108 today. After calibrating, I like it much better than my Zenith DVB318 (Green push, bootup locking issues).

The ergonomics of the drawer do not bother me; if I had children that might be otherwise.

The video quality of the HVDs varies considerably. "The Watcher" is a poor transfer - a very poor showcase disc for this format. "Warriors of Heaven and Earth" on the other hand, is spectacular! Noticably better than upconverted DVD; just shy of HD.

Comparing regular DVDs via 1080i component to S-video upconverted to 1080 by my DVDO Iscan HD, it's well... "different". Not necessarily better or worse, but different. I like aspects of both.

I'm a bit disappointed that while I paid for 4 HVDs, only 3 were included ("The Migrating Birds" was missing). Hopefully NeoDigits will send me the disc.

Technical question:

I initially had this working but then it stopped and I cannot get
it back again: I want to have the 1080i (component) and the S-Video
outputting at the same time, but it will only let me do one or the
other. I have to go into the menu and reset each time I want to
switch. The reason I want to do both is that I have the S-Video
connected to a DVDO Iscan HD, and I want to compare the upscaling by
the HVD108 to the upscaling by the Iscan simply by switching the input
on the TV. It was working this way to start, but then it stopped. I'm flummoxed.

Now if only it played EVDs as well (I still have the EVD release of "Hero" that was gorgeous, even though the Shinco player was crap). Time for a Chinese "Universal Player" :D :D

-Dan

[Huey]

Use composite video out on Neuneo (if need Svideo due to cabling or switching issues then use Ratshack composite to Svideo converter).

Zenith will upconvert all DVDs IF you have an older build or older firmware. Search for Keohi HDTV site for details.

[hoops10]

Will the Neoneu upconvert ALL dvds?

[Huey]

Neuneo will convert all DVDs (homemade and retail with copy protection) via component to 720p and 1080i and VGA up to SXGA.

[wkhz]

I ordered mine last night. Currently they're offering $25 off store wide. The code is "newsiteopen".

[dpoverlord]

Huey,
I am still waiting on my Zenith 318, If I change to an older firmware will it bypass that problem?

[Huey]

Yes, older firmware from Keohi HDTV website or older build (3/04 or older) will be fine for component upconversion. Newer build (7/04 or later) will need the older firmware burnt on a CDR to flash the player to the older firmware.

[rmaxon]

Hello,
I have some info from Roy at neuneo

The "secret code" to see the firmware version is as below ( you are the first
customer to know this )
1) Eject the DVD loader
2) Enter password "882918"

Oh boy...now I can change the region code...lol

[Huey]

Thanks, rmaxon. It's nice to see what firmware is on before upgrading to the newest firmware. It's also good that we can change region code for those problematic DVDs that will only play in its native region.

[Chris Bigos]

Originally posted by Huey
I use this cable (VGA HD15 -> 3 RCA) to do component on my LT150 (XGA DLP with 1080i mode looking the best for me when I use calibrating discs like Avia or VE) Originally posted by JGDragov
I presently am using the VGA out and running the image at 720p Guys – can you clear up some confusion here.

1> I understood that only RGB came out of the VGA connector. Are you saying that you can also get component (Y, Cr, Cb)?

2> Similarly, I thought you could only get the VGA resolutions out of the VGA connector. Is it true you can also get 720p / 1080i out as well?

3> So is there a way to get 720p out of that connector as RGB – not component?

4> And (miracles do happen) RGB out of the component, to save a breakout cable?

Much appreciated if you can clear this up.:confused:

[JGDragov]

Chis,

I have only used a VGA cable to connect both the HVD108's VGA out port to one my LT240K's in ports(the PJ has two). Through this connection I am able to view any and all resolutuons the Neu puts out(576p, 720p, 1080i, 1024x 768, etc.).

Keep in mind that my PJ's VGA inputs are also it's component inputs and I keep the setting in the PJ menu at "RGB/Component". So from my experience I can answer "yes" to your first three questions. Since I don't have a 3 RCA jack component input on my PJ I can't answer your fourth although I don't think it's likely.

Hope this helps.

[Chris Bigos]

JGDragov,

Thanks for that - good info.

Though still not sure that it's **RGB** coming out of the VGA connector in non-VGA resolutions. It sounds like your PJ automatically senses and switches between RGB and Component. So it's more likely that the 108 is outputting Component over the VGA connection?

My PJ only accepts RGB so that wouldn't work for me.

[tomtomato]

JGDragov's post caught my attention because I am also interested in connecting the Neuneo through the VGA input of my Panasonic TH-50PHD6UY plasma display. The Panasonic manual states that all input signals that apply to the component input also apply to the PC input (VGA). (Of course, the VGA input allows for additional input signals as well).

However, I wrote to NeoDigits and they stated that the Neuneo would not output 1080i/720p through the VGA output. However - they said that some customers DO report getting this do work, while others report that it DOES NOT work and they get a "green image" sending 1080i/720p through the VGA input.

Can anyone confirm whether the Neuneo would produce a 1080i/720p component signal through the Panasonic plasma display's VGA input?

[Huey]

Neuneo's VGA is ONLY VGA/SVGA/XGA/SXGA and will give a green image on 720p or 1080i (on my XGA DLP NEC LT150 which also autosense VGA vs component via its HD15 plug on the back). I must use VGA breakout cable to use 1080i or 720p from Neuneo's component RCA plugs to go into my HD15 plug of my PJ. The PJ will switch to and fro between RGB and YPbPr. You can get a HD15 switcher (if you change the 3 RCA component into HD15 plug using a VGA breakout cable) and the PJ will automatically sync to either type of signals. LT240K is similar to LT150 and does automatic sync. to either YPbPr vs. RGB (VGA). Neuneo however can NOT output correctly 720p/1080i via its VGA output due sync. issues giving a green image. I wonder though if you use an altered VGA cable with pin 13 or 14 removed then if it would output YPbPr via its VGA plug, but then regular VGA would no longer work (needs pin 13 and 14 to sync. to PC RGB resolutions). This may be useful if you don't want to buy a VGA breakout cable (if it works as I have not tried this yet).

If you use a VGA breakout cable, any component source should work on your Panasonic HD15 (VGA) plug if your display supports component via HD15 plug.

[JGDragov]

The green image reared it's ugly head when I first connected the player to my 240K and tried "HD" outputs of 720p and 1080i. I also get the green image thrown at me anytime I try to switch from VGA/SVGA/XGA/SXGA to 720p/1080i. The solution for me, and I hope it will be the same for any users experiencing the same problem, was relatively easy.

While the green image is being displayed I press the NP(NTSC/PAL) button on the remote. The image shifts to a scrambled picture on one click, then to a blank screen with my PJ saying "out of range" on the second click. On the third click the image returns displayed at 480p. I am then free to hit the HD button and receive 720p or 1080i images. I don't know if this is just my PJ or if it will be the same for any other display but it's definitely worth a shot for someone battling the green.

Huey, your statement "Neuneo however can NOT output correctly 720p/1080i via its VGA output due sync. issues giving a green image." Are the sync issues you're referring to only the green image or are there others? I ask because the images via 720p/1080i on my PJ look great and I don't see any problems. As I stated earlier my connection is a straight VGA to VGA.

[Huey]

I meant that the VGA to VGA connection to my LT150 gives me a green image when I go from 1080i to VGA/SVGA/XGA/SXGA or vice versa. I have to try the NP (NTSC to PAL) button trick to see if it will resync my LT150 to VGA. This would be nice as it would be a cleaner connection to the Neuneo HVD108. I currently use VGA breakout cable and connecting Neuneo's component into my LT150 HD15 (VGA) connector. If your trick works then I will thank you ahead of time as I have a nice high quality VGA-VGA cable I can use :D

[JGDragov]

As a lot of you who have ordered this player may know, there is now a new deal at NeoDigits. They are offering $50 off the player which would put the price at about $180 shipped.

Also, and Josh you should be interested in this, their site is now set to sell HVDs. There are about six titles to choose from and "Winged Migration" is one of them.

Just a little FYI.

[heavyharmonies]

House of Flying Daggers is now available as HVD from NeoDigits!

Also, they appear to have changed the shipping policies on the HVDs. All of the HVDs are $15 each, including shipping. This makes it MUCH more cost effective for those of us who had previously bought players to get the newly-released HVDs.

For anyone else who has bought the HVDs, what kind of case will fit the artwork, since the artwork has spine artwork for both sides? I don't want to mangle the artwork to fit a standard DVD case.

[dmbezy]

I just recieved my player and have an audio issue. During dvd playback I receive a fraction of a second of audio every 5-10 seconds from both the optical and coax outputs. My reciever recognizes the dolby digital signal, just no sound. Any ideas? BTW I played several audio cd's just fine.

[sdmike]

Originally posted by Josh Z
HVDs use a proprietary encryption codec, so they won't play on any machine without the necessary AMLogic decoder chip. D'oh! Does this mean they won't play on my DVB318? If so, anyone want to buy my Winged Migration, House of Flying Daggers and The Warrior of Heaven and Earth HVD's when they arrive? :) I guess I jumped the gun buying them without doing the necessary research.

[bayAreaML]

Has anyone tried the HVD108 with a Mitsu RPTV (specifically the wt42311)?I have the Zenith DVB318, but can't take advantage of the 1080i upconversion (through component, it's all this TV has) because of a compatibility issue. I'm thinking of replacing the DVB318 with this if I know this works fine with my TV. Alternatively, anyone in the San Fran Bay Area willing to let me try theirs out? I'd rather try before buying and possibly having to return.

[JmyBryan]

I've got a Mitsu RPTV, the 55311 if I remember correctly, and the NeuNeo works very nicely over component. With the new $180 delivered price, you can't go wrong IMHO.

[bayAreaML]

JmyBryan, sounds like you have the 55 inch version of the Mitsu I have. Did you ever try the Zenith DVB318 on your TV?

After so many recommended the DVB318, I decided to give it a try and found a compatibility issue with my TV that no one else seem to have (later on, another person with the exact same TV reported the same problem, so there really is a compatibility issue there). What I'm trying to avoid is getting the HVD108 only to find that I'm once again the only one with a compatibility issue; once bitten, twice shy!

By the way, how do you get that $180 shipped offer? I can only see the $25 off offer (making it $200 shipped) at the neuneo site?

[JmyBryan]

I spent a lot of time looking at the DVB318 before finding out about the HVD108. I ordered one from Gochnauers but that fell through. With all the firmware and performance issues reported on the DVB318, I gave the NeuNeo a shot. I'm very satisfied with the performance.

I would assume our TVs are similar, but I'm not a Mitsu engineer - so there's no way I can guarantee you anything other than mine works fine.

[sdmike]

Hopefully this isn't veering too far off-topic since this is a NeuNeo thread, but nonetheless.... bayAreaML, I just received my second DVB318 about 30 minutes ago. The first one is used with an Infocus X1 projector and looks beautiful. I wanted to hook this one up to my Mitsu TV, I believe the model # is WS-55859. I hooked it up and was disappointed to see a blue screen instead of 1080i. I'll have to dig up the manual, but I believe my particular model only has 1 input available for 1080i, and that is currently taken by my cable box.

If that is the case, I wonder if there's a way to share the 1080i input on the TV with both the cable box and DVD player without much loss of signal quality?

To get back on topic, I'm also interested in the $180 shipped price for the NeuNeo. I'm getting $199 + $35 shipping...

[bayAreaML]

sdmike, I am able to get a 1080i signal to my Mitsu, but there's stability problems with the picture (the top 3-4 inches are jumpy with frequent periodic skewing to the right; it's very annoying to the point of not really being watchable). Anyway, I've pretty much given up on the 1080i, and as we all know, the 480p performance of the 318 isn't great. But don't want to get off topic too much. I think some people have the same problem you do with only one set of component inputs accepting 1080i. Thought I saw some discussion about it on one of the DVB318 threads some time ago. Don't remember which one, sorry. You could also post the question there.

As for the NeuNeo, special, JmyBryan sent me a PM with the URL. Let me know if he hasn't also sent it to you and I will forward. But I still haven't figured out exactly how to get that special price!

[Huey]

Order it through the link provided (same as this one: http://www.neodigits.com/body/special/special2.asp ). Click on the "Buy Now" button to get the $149 and then shipping via DHL to US would be $30-35. It's actually coming from New York as their shipping hub is there but shipping charge has been passed to you. This ends 1/21/05 so hurry up y'all. I have this and Zenith DVB318 and it's very, very close in PQ with Zenith slightly better in sharpness and deinterlacing, but this is better in color (no green push), has VGA upconversion, and region free.

[bayAreaML]

Huey, clicking on Buy Now just brings me to the cehckout page with a price of $199. Maybe they forgot to post the discount code for this, or there's a problem with the web page and it doesn't paste it in directly. When I'm ready to buy, I'll e-mail them to see if they can fix it.

[captenblack]

Originally posted by bayAreaML
Huey, clicking on Buy Now just brings me to the cehckout page with a price of $199. Maybe they forgot to post the discount code for this, or there's a problem with the web page and it doesn't paste it in directly. When I'm ready to buy, I'll e-mail them to see if they can fix it.

Send a nice email to them.

I emailed them and Roy said the promotion was for existing customers only but still gave me the special email with necessary info.

[JGDragov]

The code for the $50 off is NDBAHCWWS. You should be able to enter this code in the "Discount code" box during checkout.

Huey, have you tried the VGA connection with the "trick" yet? If so, how did you make out?

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by JGDragov
Also, and Josh you should be interested in this, their site is now set to sell HVDs. There are about six titles to choose from and "Winged Migration" is one of them.

Awesome! Thanks, JGDragov!

I'm ordering Winged Migration and House of Flying Daggers tonight. Too bad there's probably no chance of Flying Daggers having English subtitles, huh?

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by sdmike
D'oh! Does this mean they won't play on my DVB318?

Is the DVB318 stated to be compatible with HVDs? If not, the odds of the discs working in the player are about the same as putting a DVD inside your CD player.

[JmyBryan]

I ordered the same two films today - here's to hoping for English subtitles!

[captenblack]

Originally posted by JGDragov
The code for the $50 off is NDBAHCWWS. You should be able to enter this code in the "Discount code" box during checkout.



Cool, wasn't sure if we were allowed to post it. I was thinking they tracked the folks who got the code/email from them.

I'm going to order the player soon since my dvb318 isn't playing nice with my TV.

[Huey]

JGDragov, no not yet. I've been all call and not played with my HT lately. To others, sorry about the useless link. It should have worked as that's how I bought mine with the free shipping.

[dpoverlord]

so this is better than the 318.. Hmmm my 318 is going to be here friday too. LoL
BTW what firmware do I need for component with it again?

[Huey]

I would not say it is better but different. Zenith has better sharpness and deinterlacing (noticeable on TV series, concerts, cartoons, anime, and video-based DVDs). This has better color saturation, no green issue, and no macroblocking issue. Macroblocking is very display dependent so your display may not show any. The green issue can be calibrated out if your set allows it. HTPC is still king at my house but I do like my Zenith and Neuneo. I use the Neuneo more as I like to save my Zenith for later or for video tittles. When A-B comparison, Zenith is a tad better once calibrated on my NEC LT150 XGA DLP at 1080i, but Neuneo is very, very close.

[dpoverlord]

huey,
so then I will be happy when I get this 318 at my doorstep lol. Hmm... What should I check for and make sure I do before I plug it in? Someone was telling me I will probably have to do a firmware thing, but I dont know how to do this. Green issue wise would you be able to direct me or explain what I may have to do to the player and tv setup to get the optimal picture b4 hand???? Thanks a million!

[sdmike]

Originally posted by dpoverlord
huey,
so then I will be happy when I get this 318 at my doorstep lol. Hmm... What should I check for and make sure I do before I plug it in? Someone was telling me I will probably have to do a firmware thing, but I dont know how to do this. Green issue wise would you be able to direct me or explain what I may have to do to the player and tv setup to get the optimal picture b4 hand???? Thanks a million! That's explained here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=400480&highlight=dvb318

[captenblack]

Originally posted by rmaxon
Hello,
I have some info from Roy at neuneo

The "secret code" to see the firmware version is as below ( you are the first
customer to know this )
1) Eject the DVD loader
2) Enter password "882918"

Oh boy...now I can change the region code...lol

Originally posted by dmbezy
I just recieved my player and have an audio issue. During dvd playback I receive a fraction of a second of audio every 5-10 seconds from both the optical and coax outputs. My reciever recognizes the dolby digital signal, just no sound. Any ideas? BTW I played several audio cd's just fine.


I just got the player and am having the same problems dmbezy is having.

Also, the "secret code" to see firmware does not work on my machine.

If anyone has similar experiences and has a fix please let me know. Thanks!

[Huey]

Don't know why your receiver does not decode DD or DTS of Neuneo's digital output. Have you tried to enable Bitstream output in the Neuneo's menu? Have you tried either Coaxial or Toslink output and does both have problems? Could it be bad cabling (tight bend in the optical cable may interfere with the light trasmission or if coaxial cable has poor shielding and not 75 ohm rated)?

To JGDragov, I tried the NTSC to PAL trick and my old NEC LT150 XGA DLP would still not sync to 1080i or 720p via the HD15 VGA plug giving all green picture. It will only sync. to VGA/SVGA/XGA/SXGA regardless of the NP button pushes. It tries but would still give all green image. I removed pins 13, 14, 15 from my VGA cable and this did the trick allowing my PJ to recognize this signal as YPbPr and not RGBHV. I'm sure this is my PJ's specific quirks. 1080i image seems a little cleaner through HD15 than through its regular component output plugs of 3 RCA's. This is probably due to my VGA cabling has better shielding than my VGA->Component breakout cable. It could also be due to Neuneo having cleaner output via its VGA plug than its component due to filters.

[dmbezy]

Huey, I have the audio problem with both the coax and optical. Both cables work fine on my old toshiba. I've flashed the firmware and tried every option in the menus that I could. I've been messaging Roy back and forth to no avail. It appears there may be a bigger issue now that I see captenblack with the same problem with his new player as well.

[captenblack]

Originally posted by dmbezy
Huey, I have the audio problem with both the coax and optical. Both cables work fine on my old toshiba. I've flashed the firmware and tried every option in the menus that I could. I've been messaging Roy back and forth to no avail. It appears there may be a bigger issue now that I see captenblack with the same problem with his new player as well.

Thanks for posting Huey and dmbezy. I do have the EXACT problem as you, dmbezy. I just tried the new firmware (which actually claims to improve compatibility with receivers) but it does not work. I also emailed Roy earlier. I might mention you in future messages since our situation is quite similar. I am assuming it could be our receiver -- I have a Pioneer. For now I am using the analog 5.1 jacks which work fine. The picture is great and I haven't tweaked any settings yet in that department... I just wish the audio worked with optical out.

dmb and others: Have you been able to input that code (from previous post) and check your firmware/region setting? I'm curious because I cannot do it. If someone is successful-- do you have any tips for getting it to work?

[blackhat36]

captenblack

You need to power the unit up. Open the disc tray. Enter the code number. Then use the remote down key to move down the menu. When you hit "Languages" you should be able to move down one more and a line titled "Hidden Menu" will appear.

Mike

[captenblack]

Originally posted by blackhat36
captenblack

You need to power the unit up. Open the disc tray. Enter the code number. Then use the remote down key to move down the menu. When you hit "Languages" you should be able to move down one more and a line titled "Hidden Menu" will appear.

Mike

Thanks for this info Mike. I didn't even bother to move the menu down (I assumed the info was going to just appear). I'll try it out later today.

[Huey]

Secret menu code does not work on my machine with the newest firmware either (nothing below "Languages" and I tried it several times). It may work with the original firmware though (don't know as I like the newest firmware to correct black levels from being too dark--black crush on old firmware).

[blackhat36]

Huey,

I also have the latest firmware upgrade and the "Hidden Menu" works fine. I upgraded the firmware to try and correct a problem with a momentary freeze in the picture which them throws the sound out of sync for a few seconds. I also get an occasional pixelization in a portion of a frame. These problems seem to occur at random and are not repeatable. It drives me nuts. The up grade did not help. I also have a Dolby Digital demonstration DVD "We've Got The Whole World Listening - Version 1.5" and only the first 2 1/2 chapters out of 10 will play. I think my unit is going back.

Mike

[biznus97]

Just another question regarding the sound from the Neuneo... After all of the talk about sound issues I decided to hook my player into my main setup to see if the sound worked ok. I had no problems via coax but was getting no sound from the optical output. After a few seconds of fiddling, I determined that for some reason when I inserted the cable all the way into the player, the audio was not being picked up. I tried 3 different cables and all had the same issue. If I moved the cable out of the socket just the slightest bit, the sound played flawlessly. I don't know if this is the same for anyone else or if it has to do w/ my unit but maybe this will help others. Anyone else have this issue? I haven't tried with a different receiver but all my other players have worked fine with these cables.

[Paul Logan]

My player has the same issue with the optical cable not working when it is plugged in
completely. The coaxial output works fine in 5.1 with 1 processor and on & off with the second one in another location.:mad:

[biznus97]

Well,

I picked up a new receiver for my bedroom and sure enough there is no issue when I plug it into the new receiver via optical. My main receiver is a Harman Kardon and the new one in my room is an entry level Onkyo. So I guess it is just a matter of which receiver you have plugged in to the Neuneo.

[Paul Logan]

You were able to get the optical cable to work when plugged in completely??

[biznus97]

Yes.

[yarrumc]

Originally posted by biznus97
Well,

I picked up a new receiver for my bedroom and sure enough there is no issue when I plug it into the new receiver via optical. My main receiver is a Harman Kardon and the new one in my room is an entry level Onkyo. So I guess it is just a matter of which receiver you have plugged in to the Neuneo.

I just got my player and updated the firmware. I simply unplugged my old player and replaced it with the neuneo. I get no sound (occasional pop) from the coax, which was fine on my Samsung. I have not tried the optical connection yet, because I am currently using them and the coax should just work. For the sake of troubleshooting, my receiver is a Pioneer VSX-D409.

I have sent an email into Neodigits and I will post any response if it helps us.

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by Josh Z
I'm ordering Winged Migration and House of Flying Daggers tonight. Too bad there's probably no chance of Flying Daggers having English subtitles, huh?

What is the deal with that Neodigits web site? I ordered these two HVDs and paid on 1/17 and they still haven't shipped.

[sdmike]

Originally posted by Josh Z
What is the deal with that Neodigits web site? I ordered these two HVDs and paid on 1/17 and they still haven't shipped. Did you try asking them? Here's what they told me:

Greetings from NeoDigits.com.

I regret to inform you that there will be some delay in your HVD Discs. We
are just informed by our shipper that we are unable to send the movies by
any express couriers such as UPS, due to strict custom inspections. All DVDs
are banned by the customs now. So we re-scheduled all the packages to be
shipped by registered airmail today. It will be a little slower and it
normally takes 2 weeks to reach you.

We sincerely apologize for the delay. If you have any questions, please feel
free to contact us.

Best Regards
Peter
Neodigits.com

[yarrumc]

Originally posted by yarrumc
I just got my player and updated the firmware. I simply unplugged my old player and replaced it with the neuneo. I get no sound (occasional pop) from the coax, which was fine on my Samsung. I have not tried the optical connection yet, because I am currently using them and the coax should just work. For the sake of troubleshooting, my receiver is a Pioneer VSX-D409.

I have sent an email into Neodigits and I will post any response if it helps us.

If anyone is interested, this is the response I got.

"Hi there,

Yes we have some customers report that they have trouble with their AV receiver to get digital sound output. This issue has been taken care of and I will push the chipset developer to release new firmware upgrade to fix the issue.
Could you let me know if the optical connection works on your side? I will forward this information to the firmware fix team.

Feel free to let me know if you have any further questions."

Roy
NeoDigits.com

I actually went out and purchased a new AV receiver and in this case I am using the optical connection. I am getting distortion now. I am not sure if that is the player or the receiver, but I am going to double check my speaker wires to see if I have a bad connection or crossed the wires.

[biznus97]

Has anyone experienced any Video hiccups while playing back NTSC titles via the VGA output? I recently noticed that this may be the case. It happens on major releases as while as smaller ones. I have tried vga and svga. I have already upgraded to the newest firmware but reloaded it just in case to see if that would take care of the issue(haven't gotten to do any testing yet though). I have forwarded my problem off to Roy at Neodigits but wanted to see if anyone else has noticed this. The hiccups are brief ( < 1 second), but can be distracting. Anyone have any suggestions as to what the casue might be and what I might do to solve this issue? Lastly, it isn't the layer change :).

-B

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by sdmike
Did you try asking them? Here's what they told me:

Yes, I just got a response after posting my last message. They told me much the same thing as you (though curiously I haven't had a problem with customs while importing DVDs from any other retailer). They claim they sent a shipment notice on the 18th but I never got it.

Oh well, so long as the discs are on the way I'm happy. Just glad to find someplace that carries HDVs at all.

[bayAreaML]

Just received my HVD108 a couple of days ago, and am quite pleased that the upconversion works flawlessly with my Mitsu RPTV (model #wt42311). For those of you following this thread, you'll know I had no such luck with the Zenith DVB318. So certainly pleased to see that I can reap the benefits of 1080i upconversion (no DVI or HDMI unfortunately) and make better use of my display.

I know some of you who also received new units recently were having audio problems with digital output. I haven't had any problems with the coax out, but haven't tried the optical (I only have one optical input on my receiver and that's reserved for a Panny DVD player). Just for the record, I have a Kenwood receiver, and I will give the optical a try if anyone thinks it's worth it.

Now to my question. Is the only zoom functionality with this unit 2x - 5x? I ask because at 1080i, my RPTV only has two viewing modes - standard and expand (which would stretch 4x3 material to 16x9). So for any movie whose aspect ratio is not approximately 16x9, I will have black bars top and bottom. Since my display is rear projection, I have to worry a bit about burn-in. At 480p, the TV has a reasonable zoom to remove the black bars, but of course, that defeats the purpose of the 1080i upconversion! I'm just curious what other people are doing about this? Maybe this isn't an issue with projectors, which I would guess covers a lot of people here.
Are there any other options I'm possibly overlooking?

BTW, the zoom on the DVB318 was one of the things I liked about the unit. It allowed you to independently expand vertically and horizontally and without too much loss of PQ for a 2.35:1 movie. With the HVD108, I'd be happy if it could do a reasonable 1.4x zoom so I don't have to worry about the burn-in potential at 1080i!

[sdmike]

Received my player and 3 HVD's 30 minutes ago. I was surprised at the packaging: A large padded UPS envelope/bag (yep, not a box) contained both the player and discs. The player was contained in a white, plain, sort of "carry box" with a handle. This was a concern at first but apparently they padded it well enough so there was no damage to the contents. Secondly, if I'm reading the tracking info correctly, it was delivered in 2 days from Shanghai, China to San Diego. Wow. The HVD's I ordered were Migration, Daggers and Warrior. Migration appears to have burnt-in Chinese subtitles. Warrior has a choice of English & Chinese subtitles. Unfortunately, Daggers is unwatchable. It plays for a second, then freezes for a second, then plays, etc, etc. Seems like maybe some kind of buffer problem? No audio issues but I've only got it hooked up to a 2 channel analog receiver for right now. Probably won't have time to thoroughly give it a test until the weekend.

Oh, and bayAreaML: I tried the zoom while watching Migration but it didn't work... Didn't try it on any of the others yet.

Just noticed they are now saying the HVD208 with 1080p and HDMI is "coming soon" on their website.

[blackhat36]

biznus97,

I have the same problem with the VGA output and with 480I on the component output. Sometimes the picture briefly freezes which then throws the sound out of sync for a few seconds. Sometimes it skips a couple of frames and sometimes I get partial pixelization in a frame. Its all random and non-repeatable. Firmware upgrade had no effect and Roy didn't have an answer so I'm exchanging the unit.

Mike

[captenblack]

Originally posted by yarrumc
If anyone is interested, this is the response I got.

"Hi there,

Yes we have some customers report that they have trouble with their AV receiver to get digital sound output. This issue has been taken care of and I will push the chipset developer to release new firmware upgrade to fix the issue.
Could you let me know if the optical connection works on your side? I will forward this information to the firmware fix team.

Feel free to let me know if you have any further questions."

Roy
NeoDigits.com



I have been in contact with Roy and emailed my receiver information (Pioneer VSX-D710S). He said basically the same thing, that he will forward the information to the developer for a firmware update.

Hope it works out.

[derkbarrington]

I got mine yesterday.

I was impressed with the 1080i on my samsung rptv but I purchased this unit for my ECP3500 CRT Projector.

Once hooked up to my CRT projector through the vga port I noted that I got the "green image" on 1080i ... not a big surprise I switched to the VGA resolutions and got a good pic on 800 x 600 but got a rolling image on xga and sxga .... the svga image looks pretty good but it is a softer image then the 1080i . Also, I noted that the svga image doesn't fit my 16 x 9 screen but the 1080i image does...any ideas???

I wish I could get the 1080i image on the projector... I wonder if there is a mod or perhaps a furture firware udate that can address this issue. I guess I could buy a component to vga trancoder but considering the cost I would have been better off in buying the momitsu in the first place.

anyone out there using the neuneo with a crt projector???

[bgartz]

Originally posted by sdmike
Just noticed they are now saying the HVD208 with 1080p and HDMI is "coming soon" on their website.

I saw this too. I am on the verge of ordering the HVD108, and I want to know what this new one will do, and if I should wait until the 208 is available.

[Huey]

I'm no CRT PJ expert, but isn't the Electrohome ECP3500 a 7" CRT PJ? If so I'd be surprise if it can support XGA or 1080i properly. You may want to ask over the CRT forum as they will know more.

Try to connect the Neuneo to a regular CRT PC monitor to see if it works for all VGA resolutions. The fact that it looks good at 1080i on the Samsung RPTV suggests the player works fine, and it's your CRT PJ that's screwy. Good luck.

[yarrumc]

Originally posted by sdmike
Received my player and 3 HVD's 30 minutes ago. I was surprised at the packaging: A large padded UPS envelope/bag (yep, not a box) contained both the player and discs. The player was contained in a white, plain, sort of "carry box" with a handle. This was a concern at first but apparently they padded it well enough so there was no damage to the contents. Secondly, if I'm reading the tracking info correctly, it was delivered in 2 days from Shanghai, China to San Diego. Wow. The HVD's I ordered were Migration, Daggers and Warrior. Migration appears to have burnt-in Chinese subtitles. Warrior has a choice of English & Chinese subtitles. Unfortunately, Daggers is unwatchable. It plays for a second, then freezes for a second, then plays, etc, etc. Seems like maybe some kind of buffer problem? No audio issues but I've only got it hooked up to a 2 channel analog receiver for right now. Probably won't have time to thoroughly give it a test until the weekend.

Oh, and bayAreaML: I tried the zoom while watching Migration but it didn't work... Didn't try it on any of the others yet.

Just noticed they are now saying the HVD208 with 1080p and HDMI is "coming soon" on their website.

New Player HVD208 listed

Here is the new player:
http://neodigits.com/body/product/h...ature.asp#specs

If my sound issues don't get resolved soon (firmware update), I am returning my HVD108 within the 30 days and get this, hoping this doesn't have the same problems and is only about $45 more than I paid.

[bayAreaML]

My original question:

Is the only zoom functionality with this unit 2x - 5x? I ask because at 1080i, my RPTV only has two viewing modes - standard and expand (which would stretch 4x3 material to 16x9). So for any movie whose aspect ratio is not approximately 16x9, I will have black bars top and bottom. Since my display is rear projection, I have to worry a bit about burn-in. At 480p, the TV has a reasonable zoom to remove the black bars, but of course, that defeats the purpose of the 1080i upconversion! I'm just curious what other people are doing about this? Maybe this isn't an issue with projectors, which I would guess covers a lot of people here.
Are there any other options I'm possibly overlooking?

I'm just curious how many people are actually using the HVD108 with a RPTV? If so, what do they do when they watch upscaled material that is wider than 16x9 on their RPTV, assuming the display doesn't let you do any kind of vertical stretching? Do you just live with the black bars top and bottom and hope that correct calibration of the TV will help to offset the burn-in? Like I said, I'd be interested to see what people are doing in this situation.
Thanks in advance.

[yarrumc]

Originally posted by bayAreaML
My original question:

Is the only zoom functionality with this unit 2x - 5x? I ask because at 1080i, my RPTV only has two viewing modes - standard and expand (which would stretch 4x3 material to 16x9). So for any movie whose aspect ratio is not approximately 16x9, I will have black bars top and bottom. Since my display is rear projection, I have to worry a bit about burn-in. At 480p, the TV has a reasonable zoom to remove the black bars, but of course, that defeats the purpose of the 1080i upconversion! I'm just curious what other people are doing about this? Maybe this isn't an issue with projectors, which I would guess covers a lot of people here.
Are there any other options I'm possibly overlooking?

I'm just curious how many people are actually using the HVD108 with a RPTV? If so, what do they do when they watch upscaled material that is wider than 16x9 on their RPTV, assuming the display doesn't let you do any kind of vertical stretching? Do you just live with the black bars top and bottom and hope that correct calibration of the TV will help to offset the burn-in? Like I said, I'd be interested to see what people are doing in this situation.
Thanks in advance.

I could be wrong, but I think you are experiencing a normal thing that we all deal with, which is that there is no standard dvd aspect ratio. If it doesn't state anamorphic or enhanced for 16x9 (as an example), you will likely see the black bars on the top and bottom.

[bayAreaML]

yarrumc, thanks for the reply. Actually, I wasn't talking so much about the fact that non-anamorphic will have the black bars top and bottom. Even anamorphic DVDs with aspect ratios greater than 16x9 (1.78:1) will have the black bars when displayed on a widescreen (16x9) TV. If you have a RPTV, then these static images are prime candidates to cause burn-in, so most displays offer some way to modify the image so that it fills the (16x9)screen. Most DVD players also offer this (zoom) capability, but generally a display device can do it better than a DVD player.

In my original post I noted that the Zenith DVB318 actually has a very good zoom feature, but the HVD108 seems to have a very limited (and rather poor) one. I was just wondering if I was missing something with the HVD108 zoom capabilities, or if there are other things people do to minimize burn-in effects with this player. Unfortunately, my RPTV has no way to zoom out the black bars when in 1080i mode.

[JGDragov]

Originally posted by sdmike

Just noticed they are now saying the HVD208 with 1080p and HDMI is "coming soon" on their website. [/B]

I have had the HVD108 for a while now and have been pretty pleased. However, if the 208 is going to ship next month, and at $195 for preorder, it might be wise for those looking at the 108 to hold off.

The HDMI and DVI inputs on your displays could be utilized with the 208 and I've yet to see a player output an image at 1080p. The 1080p image for me is the more attractive feature of the 208 as my front PJ cannot take advantage of the HDMI out.

This brings me to my question. The difference between 480i and 480p is very noticable. Could 1080p really be that superior to 1080i? If so, I would like to get a hold of a HVD208 myself. Has anyone here ever viewed a 1080p image?

[Paul Logan]

JG Dragov: How does the 108 compare to the Momitsu player using component output in 1080i?

[yarrumc]

Originally posted by JGDragov
I have had the HVD108 for a while now and have been pretty pleased. However, if the 208 is going to ship next month, and at $195 for preorder, it might be wise for those looking at the 108 to hold off.

The HDMI and DVI inputs on your displays could be utilized with the 208 and I've yet to see a player output an image at 1080p. The 1080p image for me is the more attractive feature of the 208 as my front PJ cannot take advantage of the HDMI out.

This brings me to my question. The difference between 480i and 480p is very noticable. Could 1080p really be that superior to 1080i? If so, I would like to get a hold of a HVD208 myself. Has anyone here ever viewed a 1080p image?

More generic question for me would be, can any tv, with the minimum amount of HDTV's in homes, handle 1080P resolution? I have only ever seen, except as of late, that the max resolution is 1080i. Maybe I am looking too much into it, that 1080 is 1080 and if the tv and player does progressive, then the tv can display it? If this is the case, I might return the 108, as I am experiencing the sound problems and just got it.

[JGDragov]

Originally posted by Paul Logan
JG Dragov: How does the 108 compare to the Momitsu player using component output in 1080i?

Paul,

From what I remember the images via component were a virtual dead heat with the V880 maybe being a hair lighter. The V880 was a lot more quirky for me and costing me about $70 more than the HVD108.

I was very frustrated with that player which is why I feel for the people posting here with their 108 problems. I know what it's like to have problems with a player, ship it back, post questions about it on the forum, then read posts where other users aren't having any problems and are singing it's praises.

Ideally these players would be sold at our local electronic stores and we could do in store comparisons or even buy and return them until we get THE player we're looking for. I can say with regards to both the 108 and the V880 both looked great on my PJ.

[eskimo2176]

New DLP sets can handle 1080p, due out this year.

[Paul Logan]

JG Dragov--Thanks!!!

[Josh Z]

Received my HVDs. Some sort-of good news: House of Flying Daggers has both English and Chinese subtitles permanently burned into the image. The font is small enough that I wasn't too bothered by the Chinese subs. The English translation is very welcome.

The picture is obviously mastered from a used theatrical print, unfortunately, and has some dirt and print artifacts. The picture quality is generally better than the DVD (even the remastered DVD) due to richer colors & black level and better sense of detail, but I still don't know how convinced I am that HVDs are truly full 720p resolution. The discs I've watched all look only slightly better than good DVDs, not quite up to the quality of the best HDTV broadcasts.

[neoduchtman]

Hello,

I'm new to this forum so please forgive me if I post this the wrong way.

I got my 108 last friday. It was deliverd within 3 days :)

When I wanted to connect the unit optically I ran into the first problem. My optical cable doesn't go in all the way. It goes in halve the way and then it stops. At the other side I cann't see any light being emitted which means the optical out doesn't work.

Another problem I have is that my display is flickering. If powered up the display says loading. But it starts with with LO then AD and then ING moving from right to left. This is allways the problem - thus also when playing a movie - the display keeps om roling from right to left.
If this is the occasion the open/close button on the unit it self doesn't work. If the draw is open and I pusch the open/close button on the unit the draw closes and then autimatically opens again. After a few attemps the roling stops and the display starts to flicker. Now the button does work on the unit but the flickering display doesn't go away.
I've contacted neodigits with my problem but haven.t had any responce.

Is this problem formiliair and how can I solve this problem.

Maybe Huey can help me

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by neoduchtman
When I wanted to connect the unit optically I ran into the first problem. My optical cable doesn't go in all the way. It goes in halve the way and then it stops. At the other side I cann't see any light being emitted which means the optical out doesn't work.

Dumb question, but did you remove the little plastic cap from the end of the cable?

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by Josh Z
I still don't know how convinced I am that HVDs are truly full 720p resolution. The discs I've watched all look only slightly better than good DVDs, not quite up to the quality of the best HDTV broadcasts.

OK, Winged Migration proved me wrong last night.

Wow.

[sdmike]

Originally posted by Josh Z
OK, Winged Migration proved me wrong last night.

Wow. Yes, Winged Migration is an awesome disc. Not flawless since I noticed some dirt speckles here and there, but none the less amazing picture quality over all. I just couldn't stop watching it. For what it's worth, Warriors of Heaven & Earth seems to have similar picture quality. At least, it did during the first 5 minutes I watched it. I'm a little disappointed to hear House of Flying Daggers didn't knock your socks off - this is the title I was looking forward to most of all. Which other discs have you viewed?

Finally, I didn't notice any audio issues with the optical output using my Denon AVR-2802. I do have a Pioneer VSX-1014 on order, though, so I'll test it with that as well.

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by sdmike
Yes, Winged Migration is an awesome disc. Not flawless since I noticed some dirt speckles here and there

I noticed that as well. It's disappointing that they're mastering these from used prints rather than an interpositive or internegative as DVDs are mastered.

For what it's worth, Warriors of Heaven & Earth seems to have similar picture quality. At least, it did during the first 5 minutes I watched it.

Any English subtitles on that one?

I'm a little disappointed to hear House of Flying Daggers didn't knock your socks off - this is the title I was looking forward to most of all. Which other discs have you viewed?

Flying Daggers looks good overall, and is a definite improvement over the DVD for that movie, but it didn't blow me away like Winged Migration did. The print has more dirt & speckles, and the sense of detail just seemed a little better than a good DVD. The movie does have both English and Chinese subtitles burnt into the picture.

Other than these two, the only HVDs I've seen were the two included with my player:

Heroic Duo - Again, just looks slightly better than a really good DVD, but it is actually a big improvement over the specific DVD for that movie (which looks like crap). Really poor DD 5.1 quality. No English subtitles.

My Dream Girl - About the same in picture. Poor sound and no English subs.

After those first two, I feared that HVD had inherently bad audio quality. Fortunately, Winged Migration sounds pretty good and Flying Daggers sounds terrific.

[sdmike]

Originally posted by Josh Z
I noticed that as well. It's disappointing that they're mastering these from used prints rather than an interpositive or internegative as DVDs are mastered.

Any English subtitles on that one?Yes, there's a choice between Chinese and English subtitles.


Flying Daggers looks good overall, and is a definite improvement over the DVD for that movie, but it didn't blow me away like Winged Migration did. The print has more dirt & speckles, and the sense of detail just seemed a little better than a good DVD. The movie does have both English and Chinese subtitles burnt into the picture.

Other than these two, the only HVDs I've seen were the two included with my player:

Heroic Duo - Again, just looks slightly better than a really good DVD, but it is actually a big improvement over the specific DVD for that movie (which looks like crap). Really poor DD 5.1 quality. No English subtitles.

My Dream Girl - About the same in picture. Poor sound and no English subs.

After those first two, I feared that HVD had inherently bad audio quality. Fortunately, Winged Migration sounds pretty good and Flying Daggers sounds terrific. Interesting. I'm not familiar with Heroic Duo and My Dream Girl since they weren't listed on Neodigit's website. I think you asked previously and was wondering if you received any new info on HVD's for sale online other than Neodigits?

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by sdmike
Yes, there's a choice between Chinese and English subtitles.

Optional, even? Wow. I'll have to check that out next.

Interesting. I'm not familiar with Heroic Duo and My Dream Girl since they weren't listed on Neodigit's website. I think you asked previously and was wondering if you received any new info on HVD's for sale online other than Neodigits?

Neodigits is the only place I know of so far. I hope if these sell well, the site will try to get a wider selection.

[neoduchtman]

Hello Josh Z

I did indeed remove the top before trying to insert the optical cable. In this tread someone before wrote that the top/seal of the optical out was broken so he was expecting problems. I have the same problem. On opening the box this top/seal was also broken.

I still got no reply from neodgits concerning this problem and the problem I have with the display. Does anyone know if it takes a time before they react to a problem? I do hope they help me.

[MakMak]

Help!

Can you believe there are still some of us out there with this projector? Anyway, my HTPC is acting up and I am contemplating the Neuneo player due to the VGA out connection offering. Will this unit work as well as my HTPC (P1.4 with Radeon 7500 graphic card)? Can I get a better than a native resolution for the DL450 of 800x600 to the max. resolution supported of 1024x768? If so, how can this be accomplished?

[neoduchtman]

Hello makmak,

I also have a Davis pj. I have the Davis Cinevision MKII and I'm still very happy with my unit. You can get much beter pj now if you can make the invesment.

I got my neuneo last friday and I'm very pleased with the unit. I do have some problems with the unit as you can see in this thread but Roy from neodigits contacted me and he is trying so solve my problem :) So far I'm very pleased with the service.

I don't know how good your HTPC was performing. I can tell you that my picture is much more beter then before. Before I used s-vhs. With VGA I get a much sharper saturated image. My pj is 800 * 600. On the neuneo I chose for the SVGA output because this mathes my pj. I've tried using XGA but due to the compression my Davis does, the image is less sharper then with the SVGA output.

I hope I've been of some help.

[MakMak]

Hi Neodutchman,

Thanks for your reply. I have been eyeing some of the newer projectors. But I am not ready to take the plunge yet. As many members who had the DL450 will attest, the composite connection to this projector yielded a terrible picture. However, I was very pleased with the PQ from the HTPC connection. The downside to HTPC was turning on and going thru the software loads, etc...

Since my HTPC acted up recently, I am looking for a simpler solution. If the Neuneo can come any where near the performance of my HTPC, this would be a perfect solution for me.

Thanks again for your input. I would welcome additional help comparing HTPC output to PJ vs Neuneo's VGA output.

[sdmike]

Originally posted by Josh Z
Neodigits is the only place I know of so far. I hope if these sell well, the site will try to get a wider selection. I asked Roy about the possibility of adding more HVD's to their selection, and this was his response:

We have close contact with HVD distributor. If there is new title out, we will make sure to sell
it on our web site.

Feel free to let me know if you have any further questions.

Roy
NeoDigits.com

[heavyharmonies]

I posted this 2 weeks ago, but got 0 replies, so I'll try again:

For anyone else who has bought the HVDs, what kind of case will fit the artwork, since the artwork has spine artwork for both sides? I don't want to mangle the artwork to fit a standard DVD case.

Thanks,

-Dan

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by heavyharmonies
For anyone else who has bought the HVDs, what kind of case will fit the artwork, since the artwork has spine artwork for both sides? I don't want to mangle the artwork to fit a standard DVD case.

The HVD covers are too large to fit in a keepcase, unfortunately. I scanned mine in, resized them, and printed them back out.

[JmyBryan]

I just trimmed mine with a scissors - but I'm not all that fussy.

[derkbarrington]

I am interested in the neuneo as compared to the momitsu. specifically the neuneo vga output (800 x 600) vs the momitsu 1080i . I can only use the neuneo 800 x 600 through vga on my crt projector and was wondering if the 1080i through the momitsu throws a better picture???

[poorbastage]

don't play Windows Media HD huh? Dangs it! :D

Of course there's barely any titles but don't we all need as many eye poppers as we can when we buy the hardware?

Now let us all get back to watching star jones in glorious HD on our 10 ft projection screens...

:D

I think I'll buy one of these suckers...108 or 208 hmm

[SamCarp]

Have had the HVD108 since August. Have the new firmware installed, and then the DVD motor died and it would not spin the disk. I ordered a new DVD loader, and WImged MIgration and House of Flying Daggers. Replaced the loader, connected the cables, not difficult, and it works perfectly again. Have a MItsubishi 62 inch DLP, and the HVD s are magnificent. Migration really does give you a new appreciation for a quality video picture. FOund the House to be slightly better than the US DVD on this system. I have been very pleased with the service and product for the past 6 months.

[hoops10]

Anyone have the 208 yet? If so, how does it work with up-converting regular dvds? How would it look on a lcd front pj with native resolution 960x540?

[qunying]

There is a 208 thread in this forum:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=507183

[Josh Z]

Originally posted by SamCarp
FOund the House to be slightly better than the US DVD on this system.

There is no US DVD for House of Flying Daggers yet. It won't be released until April. I think you meant to say the HK DVD.

[kiwiboy]

I got my NeuNeo HD108 last week and was extremely impressed with the picture quality, especially in 1080i mode, on my 17inch HD display. However, on certain PAL discs I was noticing the picture 'stuttering' (discs included Spider-Man 2 and Two Towers - Extended Edition), which definitely marred an otherwise great experience.

I was delighted to see that the firmware upgrade purported to resolve this issue. I installed it, and yes, it does fix the stuttering - but unfortunately, that smooth, detailed PAL image I'd been enjoying in 1080i mode is no more! While NTSC discs still play fine, PAL discs now play back in both of the player's HD resolutions (720p and 1080i) with pixellated, low-res looking picture quality. It's stutter free but now looks inferior to the player's standard 576p mode.

Roy at Neodigits has been helpful and responsive (he's going to make the old firmware available so that I can go back to my stuttering but crystal clear PAL 1080i) but says he hasn't encountered this problem before - anyone else out there in PAL-land experiencing this problem with the new firmware?

Prior to this development I'd been pretty blown away by the player's improvement over standard 576p on my hardware (even if the tray does stick every now and again).

Cheers
Matt

[JmyBryan]

Watched Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind last night and the 108 was unable to decode the DTS track. I haven't installed the new firmware, so that may have something to do with it. Anyway, was forced to watch it on my JVC. (Side note: the DTS track is very well done)

[Randu]

Hi
Has anyone tried out the NeuNeo HD208 yet?

How close to the HD I see brodcast via HBO/Shotime ect will this upconversion be?

Thanks,
Randu


PS: Doed the Pio DV 59avi do the same type of upconversion?

[wkhz]

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=507183

[Randu]

Originally posted by wkhz
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=507183

Thanks much

This one sounds a bit too buggy for me...

[zoro]

Well, oppo is no different either 94 scores with 9400 bugs lol