Other Source Component Reviews

Private Ryan's soundtrack unveiled that the SD-6200 is no slouch in the audio department either. Its delivery of bass is quick and tight, the midrange is virtually coloration-free, and there were only occasional hints of brightness in the upper registers—which is definitely par for the course with digital sources. The HDCD-encoded soundtrack to City of Angels (music-only) displayed a wide-open stage and considerable dynamic range. The SD-6200's HDCD decoding is obviously only available via the two-channel analog outputs, but the quality of the SD-6200's internal processors and DACs shouldn't have you concerned at all about an extra leg of analog travel.

Peripherals are first-rate on this player. I definitely favor this remote over the one that came with my SD-9000 a couple years back, albeit with one exception: The SD-6200's remote is not backlit—a minor point, but one which is often an issue for a component that gets a lot of use in a darkened room. Toshiba does, in a sense, offer you a way around this problem. Their V-remote feature essentially allows you to access all of the remote's functions via an onscreen interface (separate from the main onscreen menus) at the touch of a button. This does, of course, distract you a bit from the onscreen action, but it's handy nonetheless. Overall, the remote is comprehensive and easy to use. The main onscreen menus couldn't be easier to follow and have a nice aesthetic touch to boot. Should you require some extra assistance, the well-written manual is an easy read and should answer most of your questions. Setup should be a breeze for most people—one component cable to the TV or preamp, one digital audio connection of your choice, one analog audio connection for HDCD, and you're done (don't forget to select progressive output, though).

At $1,200, Toshiba's SD-6200 represents a rather economical way to introduce progressive scanning to your home theater. It won't replace your doubler, of course, as DVDs are its only jurisdiction. However, in this context, its combination of price and performance can't be beat. Among an already-solid crop of progressive-scan players, this one ranks right at the top in picture quality, sound, and features. I know you've already shared a lot of memories with that old DVD player of yours, but it might be time to get progressive in your home theater, literally and figuratively. When that time comes, put the SD-6200 on your short list. It undoubtedly deserves serious consideration—if not more.

Highlights
• Progressive scanning...say no more
• Perks like HDCD decoding, 24/96 DACs, CD-R compatibility, and a dual-disc tray
• Excellent audio and video performance