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DVDO Edge: Review

Posted to Video Components 2009-08-26

The DVDO Edge is an excellent video processor (scaler) and A/V hub from Anchor Bay Tech. The unit produces HD quality video from non-HD sources such as DVD players, cable and satellite receivers. The Edge features 6 HDMI 1.3 inputs, one S-video input and 2 component video inputs. For audio, the unit features 6 HDMI, 1 coaxial digital, 3 optical digital and 1 analog audio inputs.

For outputs, the unit features one HDMI audio/video output, one HDMI audio-only output, and one optical digital output. The EDGE is capable of processing and/or up-converting 480p through 1080p HD signals plus VGA. It features a video processor and special circuitry which removes noise due to compression and produces higher quality HD video output than most upconverting DVD players and A/V receivers. The unit comes with a backlit universal remote control unit and features a USB port for service updates.

Rating:

4.8 out of 5

Value

The DVDO Edge is on the pricey side, but it delivers excellent performance. It will deliver better HD upconversion than most A/V receivers in its price range, but it still represents an extra investment for most configurations - you'll need at least a surround system to process audio. On the other hand, it has enough I/O to allow you to use all of your existing components along with your newer digital ones.

Performance

The DVDO Edge delivers excellent performance as a video processor. The unit can accept 480i/p, 576 i/p, 720p, 1080i/p, and VGA/SVGA/XVGA/SXVGA signals and output them to any of those formats. This makes the unit more versatile than most A/V receivers, but you pay for the privilege. The noise processing and upconversion algorithms from Anchor Bay Tech are some of the best in the industry however, and you get video processing power that is usually only found in professional systems at a much higher price.

Summary

If you already have a good surround system, and are building a home theater system, the DVDO edge makes an excellent choice for switching and up-converting audio and video inputs. You really won't have need for this unit if you have an A/V receiver, however. If you do need it, the unit provides professional performance at a consumer-level price.

Pros

10 video inputs
11 audio inputs
One HDMI and two digital audio outputs
1080p upconversion of most any input signal
Superior noise processing and upconversion circuitry

Cons

There are no cons for this product