Video Asylum: REVIEW: Philips Electronics DVD-825A DVD Players by Lowell

I originally posted comments to the effect that this unit is junk. I was upset with the fact it skipped on some DVD's. This I found was the DVD, because other players costing $600 did the same thing! I thought it was bright, but it too turned out to be the dvd...
I had not used it recently for cd playback since I got my new system. I was using a tube AMC-cdp8a-5404u. On a recent AA post, it was stated that it sounded as good, or better than a tube CDP costing over $1,000. I was skeptical at best.
Playing the same CD a/b between my $849 tube cdp and this here is what I found:
The DVD player found tracks much faster. There was much improved low bass and detail from every cd I listened to. In fact, after an hour I realized that the AMC did in fact tend to hide imperfections, but was euphonically musical. This was depressing. I too agree with the poster. In most ways, this DVD may not be as musical as the AMC, but it has more detail, low bass, and treble. I feel it is also more truthful to the source than the AMC.
On DVD playback, the sound is good, it will reveal a bright recording. There is a choice of plain stereo, or SRS [sound recovery system] that adds a 3d effect for DVD audio. This player does have a digital coax out for external DAC, which I may look into an AVA Omega-IV at the end of the year. The video quality is decent, but could be better.
This has plenty of features for the price. I never set out to get a 5.1 capable unit because my bedroom is only setup for 2 channel.
Additional note: this DVD does not display the airborne feedback blur [piezoelectric effect on tube elements] that affected my tube cdp during more forceful passages. I feel that because of it's "Attack" I am getting superior slam and dynamics over the tube cdp. I am even getting information that I didn't get from my cdp, the AH! Tjoeb 99 or the Jolida 602.
Now I am grateful for what a bargain this DVD player is. I will definately keep it.

REVIEW: Philips Electronics DVD-825A DVD Players Review by Lowell at Audio Asylum