My A35 is now basically a paperweight
09-04-08 | 08:03 AM
#51
DVD Talk Limited Edition
That's cool, at least you're getting a new one. Doing the FW update is easy as pie. Just pop the disc in, let it do it's thing then power it on.
09-04-08 | 08:23 AM
#53
DVD Talk Legend
IMO most LD players were likely built better than the A2's and A3's that would be most common on Ebay and such. That's why I made sure I got my hands on an XA2.
My experience with Toshiba player models originally priced under $300 (both HD DVD and non-HD DVD) has been less than stellar. No way I'd rely on a third-party used or refurb A2 or A3 for my collection. My retired A1 probably has a better shot at longevity given the build quality.
My experience with Toshiba player models originally priced under $300 (both HD DVD and non-HD DVD) has been less than stellar. No way I'd rely on a third-party used or refurb A2 or A3 for my collection. My retired A1 probably has a better shot at longevity given the build quality.
09-04-08 | 09:32 AM
#54
DVD Talk Legend
Besides the XA2 having what is considered by many as one of the best upconversion processes, the thing is built very well. You can't really tell from the photos. I have an A20 which feels like a toy, and at first glance in pics the XA2 looks very similar. But the XA2 has some real heft to it. Not the heavier equals better mind you
, but it feels more durable, that's for sure. Even though I have an A20 and A1 in the proverbial "closet", if my XA2 goes down I will still try and seek another one out, as I would hate to rely on the A20 or A1 long-term. As far as the A2 or A3, I'll just say IMO you get what you pay for.
09-04-08 | 10:38 AM
#58
Suspended
I have two LG 200's. Kinda promised the wife I would get rid of the XA2 if she bought me a second LG 200 (and she did!) for the bedroom. Yeah, I compromised 
. The upconversion between the two is minor, though the Reon still looks nicer and I liked the remote better.
Regardless, I still have like a dozen other HD DVD players so it's no huge deal.
. The upconversion between the two is minor, though the Reon still looks nicer and I liked the remote better.Regardless, I still have like a dozen other HD DVD players so it's no huge deal.
09-15-08 | 04:33 PM
#60
Thread Starter
DVD Talk Legend
Well I'll give Toshiba kudos. Although it took awhile to get things squared away with customer service, a new A35 showed up via FedEx today. It was brand new in a retail box complete with remote, manuals and 2 free movies (I already have them so they're for trade). So hopefully this one will be better with those pesky combo discs. I still have my A3 which I am going to put in the bedroom with a as yet unpurchased HDTV and now I picked up that Venturer for $60 from BUY.com which I'll throw in the closet as a back-up.
