Blu Ray Video DAC

[hockeyboy]

I am considering the two Marantz options for a new BR player. I lean toward Marantz since it will match up with so much of my other gear. The choices are a BD8002 (which has a video DAC of 297 Mhz/12 bit) and a BD7003 (which has a video DAC of 150 Mhz/12bit).

There is a huge difference in price, but I am looking to replace my Samsung in my main viewing area and want top notch quality, and the ability to decode the HD codecs.

Is there going to be a difference in PQ based on the video DAC?
Should I be considering other players?

[izafar]

I think that you might be referring to video Processors. I believe when using an HDMI output, no video DAC is needed. And if you have fixed pixel display (LCD, Plasma, LCOs, etc) signal is never converted to Analog.

[WilliamM2]

They are video DAC's, but they only apply to the component outputs. And as was said, won't be used if connecting by HDMI.

[hockeyboy]

That is probably good news for me then since I will be using HDMI. Does anyone have any recommendations on other models? How about the new Sammy 2500? I kind of hate the idea of streaming Netflix since PQ could be an issue based on quality of connection.

[MADGSF]

I would throw the current Pioneer BDP-05FD into the mix. Never seen one but the new firmware supposedly sped up loading times. Pioneer is coming out with new players but I don't know when.