The CLD-79 has DNR, you just need the original remote to change the settings, so if you buy one be sure that the original remote is included. On the 704 you can control the settings on the front panel.

Awesome, I also just stumbled across the pioneer DVL-909. I noticed that it has a component video out option - would that not give much better quality than S video or composite? No one has seemed to mention that player.

component video out is for the DVD part of the player LD playback would only use Video and Composite video

Video is stored on laserdisc as composite so nine times out of ten you're best of using composite out on your player rather than any other outputs.

I guess you meant composite

Quite right! Thanks for pointing that out. I obviously needed a coffee when I typed that lol. Fixed my original post.

Another thing to consider is the additional equipment you will need to utilize these features, the audio in paticular.

You may be able to get the player you want for under $200, but remember in order to decode ac-3 you will need an rf demodulator, or an older receiver with one built in, which could tack on another $100 to $200 in investment.

Most people already have their receiver setup, I'd assume you have at least a 5.1 system

As for dts discs, you shouldn't have an issue with a modern receiver, but you'll find the disc sell for considerably higher then ac3 versions in many cases.

Yeah, thanks for the considerations. My audio setup wouldn't be a problem as it is currently 5.1.

I do know that I need to pickup an RF demodulator (and they seem pricey), but I'll tackle that down the road.

Step one is getting the player. Step two is eventually getting the SRD sound setup.

And I think I won't be paying much attention to DTS after a bit of research. More focused on AC3.

Best bang for your buck right now IMO is DVL-H9, it's Japanese only but can be had for at or below 704 pricing even with shipping.

I've heard conflicting comments aboult S-Video. Will S-Video deliever a better signal or is it all 'composite' at the core and doesn't matter?

If you are using period CRTs the s-video may look better. If you are using some sort of modern stuff with external processing and stuff use composite. Most people are better off with composite but even then there are exceptions. For example the CLD-99 has richer color from the s-video. You’ll have to try both and enjoy comparing them with various discs like we’re all doing for the rest of our lives.

Any opinions on the differences in the D700 series - 701/702/703/704?

I can check out the feature and design differences, but how do they all compare with noise, chroma, efficiency, etc?