What is the best external HD scaler for the money ? (1 Viewer)

[Dave Moritz]

Ok I am not sure if this is the right place for this but if it is not please move it to where it needs to go.

I am looking into an external scaler because I feel that this may be the best way to go to get the best video performance. One of the problems I have already thought of is if I place the scaler before the receiver, I get all the inputs of the scaler. I also loose the ability to scale analog signals that are hooked up to the receiver. Now if I hook it up after the receiver I basically loose what ever inputs that I could have added to the receiver.

Anyway these are some of the scalers I am checking into and would love to get some feedback.

DVDO® iScan™ VP50
DVDO® iScan™ VP50 Pro
Denon DVP-602CI (Realta HQV Processor)

Ok are some questions:

Will an external scaler give me the best results?

If so what scaler is would work the best?

Does anyone have any exsperience with these scalers and are there any others that might be considered?

I have never owned a external scaler so I would love some input.

Right now I am saving up for a Denon AVR-2809ci. I would love to buy a better receiver but the money is to tight at this time. The plan is to add a scaler later on when the money situation improves as I also intend to go with a 1080p projector with a 120" Stewart Screen. I am also budgeting money for a Denon DVD-2500ci Blu-ray player after I buy the 2809ci receiver. The goal is to have a nice big screen with as perfect of a picture as I can possible acheive. At least while spending a reasonable amount of money.

 

[Michael TLV]

Greetings

The two DVDO's are not too different. One has THX and grayscale and ISF modes and the other does not.

I'd seek out a Lumagen Radiance for performance since it does far more complex grayscale adjustments and it also has color management controls. both generally lacking on the DVDO. It's $500 to $1000 more than the VP50pro ... or same depending on where you look.

Regards

 

[Dave Moritz]

Thank you for the input Michael I very much appreciate your suggestions on this matter. I know that by listening to others that know about this subject I have a better chance of ending up with a better performing ht.

I will be checking out a Lumagen Radiance scaler as you have suggested.

Just out of curiosity what is the average cost of calibrating a projector and scaler?

Again thank you for your suggestion, I am going to look into this product online as soon as I am done with this response.