I built my home theater 6 years ago and this is my first DVD player. I conducted extensive research and chose the Sony DVP-S550D. I am overwhelmed beyond words. Keep in mind that if you do not have a relatively new mid-to  high-end A/V receiver, you will not be able to enjoy the full features of  this DVD player. My 6-year old top-of-the-line Nakamichi A/V receiver just  did not have the inputs necessary for the S550D so I purchased a new  Marantz SR-18 A/V receiver. The S550D has component video and digital  outputs as well as direct-out 5.1 channel sound so your A/V receiver should  have these capabilities. The video and audio quality are truly exceptional  in both Dolby Digital and Lucasfilm THX surround. I can assure you that you  will not need to go to movie theaters again after you watch movies on the  S550D.