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Line Doubler Review
Model: DVDo iScan Pro
Copyright © 2001 PlasmaTVBuyingGuide.com All Rights Reserved.
Description:3:2 Pull down de-interlacing converter/line doubler
Warranty: 1 Year Parts and Labor
INTRODUCTION
By adding component video input to the new and improved DVDO iScan Pro, Silicon Images has completed the best value line doubler/ progressive scan converter ever. The units basic function is to de-interlace an interlaced video signal thus creating a signal known as proggressively scanned video.
This converter can be used with a monitor, TV, or projector that can display a 480p or better image. The DVDO iScan is used to stabilize picture signals with a patented chip manufactured by Silicon Image, the Si503. It serves the purpose of making a picture sharper, clearer and adding depth as it de-interlaces the interlaced signal. It may also reduce motion artifacts and other interlaced side effects.
The unit performs over 6 billion arithmetic operations per second on the incoming video stream. It can determine not only which portions of the image are in motion, but how best to generate a progressive image with maximum picture detail.
HOW IT WORKSCONSIDERATIONS - 90
- The incoming signal is converted from analog to digital.
- The digital signal is decoded from NTSC composite or S-video (Y/C) to its basic components of Y, Cr, and Cb.
- The component signal is converted from interlaced to progressive by the Sil503 chipset.
- The progressive signal is converted back to analog RGB or YpbPr and sent over a cable to the display.
Typical configuration for the unit consists of component video input for a DVD player, s-video input for a satellite receiver or cable box, and a composite video input for a VCR. For the output, the device uses a VGA style 15 pin to a 15 pin input on a plasma monitor or projector.
The iScan Pro automatically searches for and displays whichever of the three input ports are active. You can also specify a priority-input choice so that if two or more of the inputs are active, the priority switch indicates which input to use.
Control settings are very easy to use and are located on the front panel of the small converter. They include: Brightness, Contrast, Saturation, Hue, and Sharpness. The Sharpness and Hue settings are not applicable with component video inputs because the incoming signal is already separated.
THE PICTURE - 95
The iScan Pro typically has better Y/C separation circuitry than most VCR's, laserdisc players, or DVD players. In layman's terms the color reproduction is truer, the blacks are blacker, the gray areas have better gradation, and there is less flicker in the picture signal.
I tested the iScan Pro by inputing and s-video signal from a Pioneer DV343 DVD player. I ran the 15 pin VGA cable to the VGA input on a Philips FD9932 Plasma Display Monitor. As I watched BLADE RUNNER (a very difficult movie in the blacks and grays) the differences in the picture were obvious: a more solid image quality, reduced jagged edges, smoother gray transitions, and improved color luster (though there is not a whole lot of color in this flick).
VALUE - 97
At around $775 this unit is a great buy to upgrade signals to a plasma monitor, LCD, professional CRT, or projection device. It is far more reasonable than its nearest competitor of around $2000.
Strengths:Weaknesses:
- Ease of Use
- Great 3:2 Pulldown
- Improved blacks and color luster
- Better sharpness and detail
OVERALL RATING - 94 Copyright © 2001 PlasmaTVBuyingGuide.com All Rights Reserved.
- Limited inputs
Further Reviews: Read E-Towns' review of the Panasonic TH-42PWD3 plasma TV
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