Alpine AB243 REC

Advantages: Multi-Region, Low Cost
Disadvantages: No Scart Output, Missing functions on Remote Control

...You may ask the question "What is the REC DVD-R800C?" and "Who are REC?" Well I asked those same questions when I was looking for a reasonably priced multi-region player adn the REC fitted the bill. The REC is manufactured in China and when it was first released in Sep 1999 it retailed at around £300. Now that price has dropped to around £180 making it a very attractive player. The REC supports the standard DVD functions plus it has some karaoke features. Playback of DVDs is as good as any other machine I've seen and it seems to cope with all the films I tried to date (The Matrix, Notting Hill, Twelve Monkeys, Sixth Sense, Tarzan, Blade Runner, and The Mummy). Playback of CDs is also very good. On the negative side 1) It doesn't have a Scart output instead it provide S-Video or AC-3. 2) The remote control is adequate, but for some... Read review

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Advantages: Best sound quality in its price range
Disadvantages: Ugly as sin

...The ultimate in ICE (in car entertainment). ALPINE! A big name for many years in the automotive industry delivering some of the best amplifiers, headunits and speakers available. The CDA range definately does not dissapoint. Featuring all of the classic alpine qualities including the old alpine look with the 4 buttons to the left of the round volume control (which now functions as a whole lot more). Its an absolutely ugly headunit as all alpines are, a pig to operate and I dont think there is anyone in the world that has mastered every option on an alpine unit since they first started producing them, but from the moment you first power it up you fall in love with the depth, warmth and clarity of the sound reproduction. My favourite trick is to leave the eq exactly as it comes from factory, but to increase the subwoofer output level... Read review

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Advantages: Power
Disadvantages: Price

...As a keen purchaser of Alpine products in the past it is fair to say they have a repretation in the industry. And when it comes to in car audio it is hardvto beat them. This product provides clarity that you would expect as well as a few extras which rivilys would find hard to beat. Its not cheap but then what is and would you buy it if it was no. It the quality you expect from a brand that provides knowledge and well made products as expected.This amp kicks asre and will be seen in many a tesco park park in the future with out a doubt. Phil Nova... Read review

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