Pioneer DV-420VKWC Region Free DVD Player Review

Description: HD Upconverting, Hardware Modified Region Free DVD Player

Region Free Operation - 98/100

This Pioneer DVD player has been upgraded for Region Free play with the WorldClad WC-12H chipset. Our experience with the WorldClad chip in the past has been seamless and the WC-12H was no exception in our review. There is no need to visit a menu or fiddle with the remote to watch a disc from any region, just put in the disc and it plays just like any region 1 disc in an un-modified DVD player. The WorldClad chip also converts other TV systems to NTSC so it doesn't require any outboard converter or multi-system television to view PAL or SECAM content.

Video Performance - 93/100

The Pioneer DV-420VKWC can output video via composite, RGB component or HDMI. The player can upconvert DVD content to 1080p and with high quality movies the picture quality was stunning. When a player upconverts this well there is no need to convert your DVD collection to a high definition format like Blu Ray.

The 420 also plays back DivX content that has been burned to a disc as well as VCD and Super VCD.

Other Considerations - 88/100

Digital audio output is handled by either the HDMI output or a coaxial digital output. Stereo analog sound output is also available. With HDMI going through our Onkyo receiver sound quality was excellent and neutral. We didn't notice any added on euqalization or coloring of movies we know well enough to tell the difference.

The menu were user friendly and easy to navigate though we did notice some delay in menu operation and load times for DVDs were a little slow but not a big concern.

Value - 97/100

The Pioneer 400 series has been an excellent performer in the past and this latest addition to the line is no exception. Adding HDMI, 1080p upconversion and higher quality Video and Audio DACs we can comfortably recommend this as an entry level region free DVD player. The WorldClad WC-12H chip adds seamless region free functionality to an already great DVD player. Available for less than $190, this player offers great value in an affordable package.