Sony Sony DVD Player - DVPF21S CD-R (Sony-DVPF21S)

WHAT'S HOT: Sony's style is in full effect with the DVP-F21. Its small form factor matches mini stereo systems and would work well in tight spots that can't handle a full-size component. Instead of a tray for the DVD discs, it includes a slot-load drive for added convenience. And you can place it vertically as well as horizontally, if you're really crunched for space. In keeping with its compact shape, the connectors are hidden in a recessed compartment beneath the player.

WHAT'S NOT: While big on form, the DVP-F21 doesn't score well on function. Colors appeared flat, and details were soft instead of sharp. Sound came out overly bassy, to the point that it was distorted. In addition, the on-screen menus used mysterious icons that we had to look up in the manual to understand, and many of the advanced features, while handy, also required a trip to the manual to figure out.

WHAT ELSE: The DVP-F21, while advertised with component video output, only comes with lower-quality composite and S-Video-out connections. The remote lacks a setup button, and other button functions are unclear. The player lacks a coaxial digital output, though it does include an optical digital out port. (Many players include both to give you a choice of digital audio connections.)