DVD Player to Bridge the Gap...

[RoyY51]

Well, I guess it had to happen sometime. My revered Panasonic XP-50 DVD player has bit the big one. It just sits there with the word WELCOME frozen on the front display as if to mock me. Nothing that I, or the Panasonic techies have tried has been successful. So, it looks like I'm going to have to spring for a new unit.

My problem is this: I had planned to wait a year or two and see which of the 2 hi-def contenders emerged victorious. I figured that by then, not only would there be a clear-cut winner, but the prices for the these units would be approaching affordability. But since my addiction to movie watching allows me no other choice, I now have to fill that gap with something VERY affordable, yet something that won't cause me to grit my teeth in anguish every time I fire it up.

What I'm looking for are suggestions as to what unit would give me the biggest bang for my buck. Being as this is just a stop-gap measure, I definitely don't want to spend over $200.00. That being said, it has still got to provide an enjoyable watching & listening experience.

I would really appreciate your suggestions as to what units would fit the bill, & where they can be purchased.

BTW, if anyone can tell me how to get my Lord of the Rings DVD out (no hammers, please) I will be eternally grateful.