Michael Gowan

Philips DVDQ50AT

The Philips DVDQ50AT performed beautifully on color and detail tests. It creates a pleasing balance between reds and blues; also, contrast and shadow detail popped from the screen without seeming harsh. The DVDQ50AT produced the best sound of the players in this roundup, with crisp treble and decent bass. The player is also capable of high-resolution progressive scan output, which produces a sharper picture when paired with a compatible TV, and can read many disc formats, including MP3 CDs.
While the DVDQ50AT shines in video quality, its design and usability lagged. It lacks a time display on the player itself, so you have to rely on on-screen menus. But because it doesn't automatically generate an on-screen time or chapter display when you scan forward or back, it's always difficult to determine where you are and where you're going. However, you can display the time on screen manually using the remote.
The DVDQ50AT includes six-channel direct outputs, so you can tap into the latest surround-sound formats even if your receiver doesn't support Dolby Digital. Using the player's on-screen setup menu to get started and adjust settings can be complex and disorienting at first. However, once you get used to the menu layout, the player offers a detailed, layered way to tweak its many functions.
If color and detail matter most, the Philips DVDQ50AT is a good buy despite its high price tag and interface flaws.

Buying Information

Philips DVDQ50AT Progressive scan-capable; supports MP3s, CD-Audio, CD-R, CD-RW, and DVD formats; includes composite and S-Video cables. Dimensions: 17.1 by 2.9 by 11.5 inches. $ 499 Progressive scan-capable; supports MP3s, CD-Audio, CD-R, CD-RW, and DVD formats; includes composite and S-Video cables. Dimensions: 17.1 by 2.9 by 11.5 inches. http://www.philips.com 800/531-0039