looking for a better DVD player

I would go out on a limb and say that 99.9% of the peeople would not notice the sound variations on any of these players you mentioned. At some level, the trade offs become mute, and I would say at those levels, you have hit it.

The Camelot is supposed to be fabulous, as is the Ayre, but the unit I selected over the Camelot was the EAD Theatervision. In the Great DVD Shootout, this unit finished 'second' to the Camelot, but can be found preowned for about $1,350-$1,650. Probably $1,000 less than the Camelot.

That said, you did mention the fact that you already have a CD player otherwise I would suggest the unit I am currently using, which I feel is the best all in one DVD player in the world (as if that means anything) from a value standpoint, the California Audio Labs CL-2500 DVD/CD.
Although the company is OOB now, still an ABSOLUTELY phenomenal transports, with stellar video and audio for films. Heck, for less than $1,000 preowned, again, a steal!

Dan

Jrwr7:Have you had your Mit calibrated? Are you using a quality power conditioner?--Just a couple of ways to improve what you already have.Just about all display devices respond to both suggestions,(in a big way!).

I have owned several DVD players that include:

Ayre D-1x (current)
EAD Theatervision P
Meridian 586.2

All had excellent surround sound capability and picture. Since each also saw duty as an audio transport, the Ayre was best for this purpose, not surprisingly since weighs in as the most expensive unit of the three.

As a detected CD player, the Ayre also excelled in overall sonic ability. Very transparent, detailed top-to-bottom, dynamic and finesse. Of course, the 2-ch audio option at $2750 is more costly than some CD players but it definitely shows its worth.

In terms of video, the Ayre may have a slight edge over the others offering a more detailed, noise-free, smoother picture with better colors. Again, you would only perceive this using a high-quality video monitor and cable.

Finally, Ayre's customer service is the best I have come across. They are very friendly and helpful people. When you leave a message, they return your calls within a day. Can't go wrong here. Never had to deal with Meridian or EAD, so please do not read this as a comparative commentary on their service.

Send me an email if you have any further questions.

The best objective review of DVD players I know of. A must read. Finally, a thorough review.

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_7_4/dvd-benchmark-progressive-shootout-12-2000.html

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_8_3/dvd-benchmark-progressive-shootout-2-8-2001.html

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_7_3/dvd-benchmark-introduction-9-2000.html

Hey All,

Thank you for the info/suggestions. Now, to address everyone.

Lthkeepr, unfortunately I have limited space and would not be able to accommodate anything larger than what I currently have.

Porschecab, I would love to read the great DVD shootout you mentioned. As for the Cal Labs, I think I would like to stay w/something that still has a company behind it.

Avguygeorge, yes, I have calibrated the Mitsu and it made a big difference. I'm also running RGPC S400's(2) for front end and video, they do help.

Meri5862, thank you for the insight on the Ayre D-1x but the more I think about it the more I realize that this machine, as great as it may be, is out of my price range.

Ericamd, thanks for the info on the reviews. I did not read it all but from what I did read it seems the the Camelot might be what I'm looking for.

Thank you all very much for sharing your insight and experience w/me, I really appreciate the input......John