DVD Players that output 480i over DVI

[jburtt]

I have just sent my IScan HD to JVB Digital for the upgrade to the HD+. I have a Denon DVD-2900 and DTV HD Tivo box. I know the DTV HD Tivo box will output SD in 480i over the DVI ouput so it can be scaled by the IScan HD+, but am torn between doing the SDI mods on the DVD player and IScan HD+. I am guessing I could sell my DVD-2900 and upgrade to a player that will do 480i over DVI for about the same $$$'s as installing the SDI mods on the DVD player and IScan HD+. I think I have one of the good DVD-2900's, since it has performed flawlessly for the past 2 years and has a beautiful picture on my ISF calibrated 65" Mitsubishi CRT (WS-65413) using my DIY Belden 7710A component cable with Canare rca's.

I just picked up the IScan HD and have not had alot of experience with scalers. I am looking for some input from the veterans who's info I've been reading here for the last couple of months.

Thanks for reading my post and again for any input.

[mimason]

Your best bet is to SDI mod the 2900 but you could also try the Sony 975 and Pioneer 59avi that output 480i over HDMI.

[PooperScooper]

Jburtt,
I'll second mimason and recommend the SDI path. Also, once you start using the scaler you may want to consider getting another ISF calibration - you're changing your source device.

larry

[kraigk]

If your not inclined to go the SDI route the Pioneer 79avi is hitting the streets now and claims to do unprocessed 480i over HDMI. They call it "direct mode" (vs. normal & enhanced). The jury is out.

Were I choosing between the the Sony NS975 and the 59avi I would save the $$ and get the Sony. I compared both and while the audio and build quality of the Pioneer was best there was no decipherable difference in picture. I was feeding both to a Faroudja DVP1080 processor.

[PooperScooper]

kraig,
More than a few folks were having problems passing BTB on the Sony at 480i via HDMI. What was your experience, if any, wrt BTB?

larry