Understanding Portable Video Players

Today's portable video products make it easier than ever to take A/V excitement out of the house and on the road. Portable video players are getting smaller, more lightweight, and at the same time, more advanced. Portable DVD players will let you watch your favorite movies in all kinds of places, while digital video portables may have a range of other capabilities.

More ways to watch
Lightweight, convenient portable DVD player are a big hit. Most are slim, laptop-style pieces, with a DVD deck and a built-in, flip-up screen. They usually include a headphone output, plus a variety of digital and analog outputs, for lots of connection possibilities. Other portable DVD players lack an attached screen, but are ready to plug into TV monitors wherever you go — car, boat, or vacation house. You can also use one as your regular player at home! And, of course, there are portable video players designed especially to be used in the car. Some involve permanent installation; others can be hooked up for long road trips, but put away for regular about-town driving.

There are also players which rely on digital video files stored to a tiny hard drive, instead of DVDs. These players are great when used in conjunction with a computer with a built-in TV tuner, because you can record your favorite TV shows, store them as videos, then load them onto your portable and carry them with you. There players can usually handle MP3 files and digital photos as well.

No matter which type of portable you choose, consider buying a pair of headphones separately. Although most portable players include headphones, you can usually get better sound by replacing them, even with an inexpensive pair.

If you're used to the great sound you get when you watch DVD movies on your home theater system, look for a set of Dolby? Digital headphones. You'll enjoy impressive surround sound from your portable DVD player, even in a hotel room.