All About DVDs
6 things you should know before buying a DVD player
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My problem:
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I have a VHS system and I might get a DVD player as well. Is it worth the money now? And what should I do with all those videos? - Brett K., Sleepy Hollow, NY |
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Our solution: |
There�s no right answer, just good questions, Brett. We researched the pros and cons so you can choose for yourself.
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- So, what are we talking about? DVD stands for either Digital Video Disk or Digital Versatile Disk, depending on who is speaking. A DVD looks like a CD, but it�s way better. DVD is a digital format for movies; both the video and audio are digital. It stores information in pits and grooves coated with plastic, kept on a metal disk. As with a CD, a laser reads the stored information. Unlike a CD, it can have two sides, and each side is itself double-sided.
What do DVDs offer that VHS doesn�t? The main advantage with the DVD is superior sound and picture quality. Another plus: Unlike with VHS tapes, there is no wear on the disc no matter how many times you watch it. Many films released on DVD also include goodies like multiple camera angles, versions with different ratings, subtitles in various languages, scenes not included in the edited movie, etc. You navigate these extras via the menu feature, which also allows you instant access to each segment of the movie. That means no rewinding or fast-forwarding, just like CDs. And a DVD takes up one-third the space of a VHS tape.
So are there any drawbacks? Yeah, you generally can�t record on them. Recordable DVDs are availible, but they cost $2,000-$3,000. If you�re set on waiting to buy a system until recordable DVDs become affordable, you may have to wait a few years.
What other features should I be looking for? A player should be able to play audio CDs as well as DVDs. It should have dual focus lasers, which allow it to pick up information more quickly. Look for Dolby Digital sound, especially if you�re set up for surround sound.
Can I get any movie I want on DVD? The format has been cautiously embraced by most film studios, so you can get most new releases on DVD as well as on VHS. However, there are a few gaps. Some classics, such as Star Wars and Indiana Jones, have yet to be released.
So, should I take the leap? We say yes. If you aren�t too worried about being able to record, then it is definitely worth it. We can
recommend a
player for you. And if it is important to you to be able to record, you can always just stack the DVD player on top of the VCR, and use the VCR to record the stuff you want. The only risk you are really taking is making your VHS tapes look lame in the face of new technology.
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