I purchased this player from 220 electronics.com and it is a code free region free player that upverts using HDMI cable that is included for about $150. You can also get the Pioneer 696 for about $180. With all the cables included you can be up and running in minutes. This player will play just about anything you put into it. All dvds including dvd+r dvd-r dual layers photo discs vcds svcds and any region or code dvd world wide. I've played PAL and Asian dvds perfectly. My favorite feature is if you let the disc sit and the player shuts off or you shut the player off manually when you power up it returns to where you were when you shut down. It also remembers where you were if you eject the disc while playing. Picture is excellent on my HD tv but I do not have a Bluray or HD dvd player to compare it with. For the price this is an excellent dvd player that pretty much plays everything beautifully.The picture quality on vcds or svcds is rather poor compared to a dvd and while watchable this player is much better with dvds. Pictures on photo discs or cds also look grainy but on a large screen tv I think it's expected.