Other Source Component Reviews

Features
Compatible Playback Formats: DVD-Video, SACD, CD, VideoCD, MP3, JPEG, DVD-R/-RW, DVD+R/+RW
Possible Playback Resolutions: 1080i, 720p, 480p, 480i
Built-in Decoding:
Video D/A Convertor: 14-bit/216-megahertz
Audio D/A Convertor: 24-bit/96-kilohertz
Bass Management for
Analog Audio Outs: Yes
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 5 x 17 x 15.375
Weight (pounds): 20
Price: $1,300

Connections
Inputs: None Video: None
Audio: None
Outputs:
Video: HDMI (1), component video (1), S-video (2), composite video (2)
Audio: i.Link(2), coaxial digital (1) optical digital (1), stereo analog (2), 5.1-channel analog (1)
Additional: RS-232 (1), IR jack (1)

These listings are based on the manufacturer's stated specs; the HT Labs box below indicates the gear's performance on our test bench.

Ratings: Sony DVP-NS9100ES DVD/SACD Player

Build Quality: 95
• Weighs four times that of a budget DVD player
• The stepped aluminum faceplate is a masterpiece

Value: 90
• You get top-line SACD chops from the format's coinventor
• It's still on the costly side of the fence

Features: 88
• 1080i and 720p upconversion
• i.Link (FireWire IEEE 1394) high-rez digital outputs
• No DVD-Audio

Performance: 95
• Trustworthy high-rez audio performance, and it includes the still-important analog outs
• Superb video detail and noise reduction

Ergonomics: 82
• Accessing the main menu is unnecessarily difficult
• Essentials like the play button are hard to find on the remote
• Slow

Overall Rating: 91
With Sony itself fighting to establish Blu-ray in the high-end consciousness, a pricey DVD-Video player may seem superfluous—but this one also does SACD. Until a Blu-ray player incorporates those formats, the Sony DVP-NS9100ES will serve listeners who can't live without high-resolution audio.

General Information
Sony DVP-NS9100ES DVD/SACD Player, $1,300
Sony Electronics
(877) 865-SONY
www.sonystyle.com
Dealer Locator Code SNY