Other Source Component Reviews

Toshiba HD-XA2 HD DVD Player: First Look

Ultimate AV Staff  |  Nov 1, 2006  |  First Published: Nov 2, 2006

  • $999
  • Digital Video Output: HDMI (ver. 1.3)
  • Video Upconversion: 720p, 1080i/p
  • Audio Decoding: DD, DD+, Dolby TrueHD, DTS
  • Ins and Outs: HDMI 1.3, others TBD
  • Feature Highlights: HDMI 1.3, 1080p output, full Dolby TrueHD decoding, upconverting HDMI and component outputs for standard-def DVDs

Both of Toshiba's second gen HD DVD players are scheduled to arrive before year's end. The HD-XA2 is the star though. It will not only be one of the first and very few components to feature HDMI version 1.3, it will also include full multichannel DolbyTrueHD decoding and a 1080p output. Although both of Toshiba's second-gen HD DVD players are more slim-line and low profile than their respective predecessors, the HD-XA2 is the tank of the two. And Toshiba is of course claiming improved ergonomic and response time. Look for UAV to get one of these babies in for a full review as soon as its available in December.

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