The
Kiiro X8 Multi-region DVD Player is an affordable DVD
player packed with features, including multi-region playback. It is a well
constructed machine, with a solid feel and stylish two-tone silver finish. Upon
opening the box, you are greeted with a quick start set-up sheet and a detailed
manual. This makes setting up the machine straightforward in the majority of
cases.
Everything
you need to get started is included in the box, including a remote control,
batteries and a SCART lead. At its simplest, getting started involves
connecting the SCART lead to both the
Kiiro X8DVD player and the television, plugging in and
switching on. There are a variety of sockets on the back of the player to
accommodate more involved setups. These include both a coaxial and optical
digital audio out, for passing a Dolby Digital or DTS audio stream through to
separate audio decoders/amplifiers. There are also stereo audio output jacks, a
composite video out, S-VHS (S-Video) out and a single SCART socket.
Most of the
default settings of the
Kiiro X8 are just right, but it is worth noting a couple of
changes that can make a noticeable difference. The default video out setting is
SCART composite or Video. This provides maximum compatibility, but if your TV
supports it, changing this setting to SCART RGB has a significant impact on the
quality of picture output. Turning up the volume on the DVD player to the
maximum also puts it more in line with the TV channel output.
The menu
controls are straightforward to follow and the remote control, while not
exceptional, gets the job done simply. A range of features are accessible,
including zoom, audio pitch control, virtual 3D surround, plus a whole lot
more. The image and audio quality of the
Kiiro X8 is competent, if not outstanding and certainly
well above the average typically seen in this price range. The player handled
discs from multiple regions with aplomb. There was no need to enter any
settings, or play with the remote. You simply enter a region two disc and it
plays. Eject this and put in a region one disc and this also automatically
plays. This was even the case with RCE (Region Code Enhanced) discs. The whole
multi-region process is handled transparently.
The
Kiiro X8 DVD player combines good looks with a rich feature
set, competent performance and multi-region playback. It lacks a second SCART
socket, which can be useful if connecting multiple devices and there is no
onboard Dolby Digital decoder. Other than this, the player is hard to fault,
especially at such a competitive price. |