Coby DVD-224 - Lots of features at a low price

Like most people who have reviewed this product (it seems), I purchased this DVD player as a secondary system for use in our spare tv. At a surprisingly cheap $24, I wasn't expecting a lot from it, but I got more than I expected.

When I was looking for the DVD player, I wasn't asking for much. I, more or less, wanted a DVD player that would play the occasional movie for me. The only thing I was specifically aiming for was a progressive scan system, which, even today, some cheap units don't have. This unit does include progressive scan. In addition to DVDs, it also handles picture CDs and any type of audio CD.

Another handy feature that I really did not expect is its ability to read PAL and NTSC outputs. By using the handy region code chart in the manual (or the internet), you can easily use DVDs with varying region codes.

As far as the unit itself, it is perhaps not the top-of-the-line in manufacturing and design, but it seems to be holding up well to date. It has an amazingly small footprint, being only about 9"x10.5" and less than 2" high. The unit is silver and has no digital read-out, just a power button, play button, stop button, and eject button on the front. The remote included with the system is fairly impressive with 40 raised buttons handling 25 different features. As a side note, the remote is very attractive and has a very sleek mod look, which, obviously does nothing for its functionality, but was a nice touch.

As far as performance in general, I've had no problems with skipping or freezing. I am surprised at its ability to read DVDs that other units have labeled 'unreadable' because of scratches or wear. It does have hum noise as it reads disks that is louder than the average player, but isn't so loud as to be noticeable once the movie starts.

Overall, I would say I got more than I expected from this unit given its price and brand reputation. I would not probably recommend this player as a primary or heavy-use player, but for a secondary or expendable unit, it's ideal!