1005WHC23 Sony DVP-NS955

9/8/05

10:57 AM

Page 52
GROUP TEST >Mid-range DVD players
108MHZ/12-bit chipset SACD, DiVX and MP3 compatible

RATINGS

STYLE FEATURES PICTURE SOUND VALUE OVERALL EASE OF USE #####

Sony DVP-NS955 270

Despite early promise and the boast of DiVX playback, this Sony offering never really does enough to challenge the best
Coming in well under budget compared with the rest of this test is not necessarily a bad thing for Sony. While its price ticket precludes such niceties as HDMI outputs and video scalers, the DVP-NS955 does pack in plenty of core technology, SACD compatibility and, uniquely in this group test DiVX playback. The back panel is well endowed, albeit in an analogue sort of way, with a tick in every box. You get twin Scarts and gold plated 5.1 audio outputs from the decoder. The front panel design is pure Sony style with vivid blue lights on brushed aluminium that look much pricier that the actual ticket suggests. It is just as sophisticated on screen with logical and nicely detailed menus right down to individual speaker settings for DVD and SACD sound. The video chipset is the rather pass (at this price level) 108MHz/12-bit variety although there is progressive scan output via the component connection. The audio components are similarly last year compared to others in this test but you do get fine
###$$ ###$$ ####$ ####$ ###$$

TEST SCENE

> >Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
This dark movie can be a challenge for any DVD player, the Sony being happier in brighter scenes such as this one

AT A GLANCE

FEATURES Progressive scan output SACD playback DiVX playback MP3 playback Music/movie set up CONNECTIONS Component output S-video output RGB Scart Electrical digital audio Optical digital audio Multi-channel audio output Stereo audio output
set-up controls for the subwoofer and both video-off and display-off setting to improve the audio only playback. As if to highlight that analogue connections still have a place in society the picture is bright, vivid and immediate. The brighter scenes in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban are rendered with a vibrant and near three-dimensional feel and faces are naturally coloured. Good shadow detailing is a pre-requisite for this DVDs darker moments and the Sony just about scrapes a pass in this respect. Black levels are fair but there is a rather uncomfortable balance to be selected between overall brightness and depth of field. Set the brightness levels and take your choice but remember, you cant have both.
BRIGHTER SCENES HAVE A VIBRANT AND NEAR THREEDIMENSIONAL FEEL
The building itself gains a more three-dimensional feel when fully lit and the stonework is well detailed and textured. Large swathes of graduated colour are handled far less sympathetically and the DVP-NS955 suffers the worst case of grain and digital banding in this round-up. Relatively it is still streets ahead of budget machines around 100 but for nearly thrice the price we would expect better.

Analyse this

Look on the bright side
The Sony is definitely happier showing brighter scenes, the blue skies over Hogwarts looking open and inviting.

www.sony.co.uk 999

Small, yet stylish controls with blue backlights
Gold plated 5.1 audio inputs combine with component output
Only the Philips remote proves better designed
Sonically Sonys insistence that SACD playback has to sound incredibly detailed and rather lightweight infuses this player. It certainly manages a super clean sound with very low background noise on all formats although this can sound frosty and analytical with lighter classical music and rather edgy with up tempo pop and rock. Having tried this player in a number of systems we found it can be a little bit Jekyll-andHyde sonically. With warm sounding amps it excels with a variety of music. This models final eclipse however is brought about by the new Philips DVP900S. For only about 100 more the Dutch contender is a league ahead in style, connectivity, picture and sound quality. As the DVP-NS955 comes to the end of its natural product cycle this autumn no doubt it will be heavily discounted and at that point it will go from mid-market also-ran to a budget bargain. One for the spare bedroom we think I

52 WHC OCTOBER 2005

2-059-563-13(1)

CD/DVD Player

Operating Instructions

DVP-NS955V DVP-LS785V

2004 Sony Corporation

WARNING

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only. The mains lead must only be changed at a qualified service shop.

Welcome!

Precautions
Safety This unit operates on V AC, 50/60 Hz. Check that the units operating voltage is identical with your local power supply. To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus. Installing Do not install the unit in an inclined position. It is designed to be operated in a horizontal position only. Thank you for purchasing this Sony CD/DVD Player. Before operating this player, please read this manual thoroughly and retain it for future reference.
This appliance is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER product. The CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT MARKING is located on the rear exterior.

CAUTION

The use of optical instruments with this product will increase eye hazard. As the laser beam used in this CD/DVD player is harmful to eyes, do not attempt to disassemble the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only. Notice for customers in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland A moulded plug complying with BS1363 is fitted to this equipment for your safety and convenience. Should the fuse in the plug supplied need to be replaced, a 5AMP fuse approved by ASTA or BSI to BS1362, (i.e., marked with or mark) must be used. If the plug supplied with this equipment has a detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach the fuse cover after you change the fuse. Never use the plug without the fuse cover. If you should lose the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony service station.

On adjusting volume

On safety
Should any solid object or liquid fall into the cabinet, unplug the player and have it checked by qualified personnel before operating it any further.
Do not turn up the volume while listening to a section with very low level inputs or no audio signals. If you do, the speakers may be damaged when a peak level section is played.

On cleaning

Clean the cabinet, panel, and controls with a soft cloth slightly moistened with a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring powder or solvent such as alcohol or benzine.

On power sources

The player is not disconnected from the AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if the player itself has been turned off. If you are not going to use the player for a long time, be sure to disconnect the player from the wall outlet. To disconnect the AC power cord (mains lead), grasp the plug itself; never pull the cord.

On cleaning discs

Do not use a commercially available cleaning disc. It may cause a malfunction.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Caution: This player is capable of holding a still video image or on-screen display image on your television screen indefinitely. If you leave the still video image or on-screen display image displayed on your TV for an extended period of time you risk permanent damage to your television screen. Plasma display panel televisions and projection televisions are susceptible to this. If you have any questions or problems concerning your player, please consult your nearest Sony dealer.

On placement

Place the player in a location with adequate ventilation to prevent heat build-up in the player. Do not place the player on a soft surface such as a rug. Do not place the player in a location near heat sources, or in a place subject to direct sunlight, excessive dust, or mechanical shock.

On operation

If the player is brought directly from a cold to a warm location, or is placed in a very damp room, moisture may condense on the lenses inside the player. Should this occur, the player may not operate properly. In this case, remove the disc and leave the player turned on for about half an hour until the moisture evaporates. When you move the player, take out any discs. If you dont, the disc may be damaged.

Table of Contents

WARNING. 2 Welcome!. 2 Precautions. 3 About This Manual. 6 This Player Can Play the Following Discs. 7 Notes About the Discs. 8 Index to Parts and Controls. 9 Guide to the Control Menu Display. 13

Hookups. 16

Hooking Up the Player. Step 1: Unpacking. Step 2: Inserting Batteries Into the Remote. Step 3: Connecting the Video Cords. Step 4: Connecting the Audio Cords. Step 5: Connecting the Mains Lead. Step 6: Quick Setup. 28

Playing Discs. 32

Playing Discs. Resuming Playback From the Point Where You Stopped the Disc (Multi-disc Resume). Using the DVDs Menu. Selecting ORIGINAL or PLAY LIST on a DVD-RW. Selecting a Playback Area for a Super Audio CD. Playing VIDEO CDs With PBC Functions (PBC Playback). Various Play Mode Functions (Programme Play, Shuffle Play, Repeat Play, A-B Repeat Play). 39

Searching for a Scene. 44
Searching for a Particular Point on a Disc (Search, Scan, Slow-motion Play, Freeze Frame). 44 Searching for a Title/Chapter/Track/Scene, etc. (Search mode). 46 Searching by Scene (PICTURE NAVIGATION). 47
Viewing Information About the Disc. 49
Checking the Playing Time and Remaining Time. 49

Sound Adjustments. 52

Changing the Sound. 52 Surround Mode Settings. 54

Enjoying Movies. 57

Changing the Angles. Displaying the Subtitles. Adjusting the Playback Picture (CUSTOM PICTURE MODE). Sharpening the Pictures (SHARPNESS). Adjusting the Delay Between the Picture and Sound (AV ALIGNMENT) (DVP-NS955V only). 61
Enjoying MP3 Audio and JPEG Images. 62
About MP3 Audio Tracks and JPEG Image Files. 62 Playing MP3 Audio Tracks or JPEG Image Files. 63 Enjoying JPEG Images as a Slide Show. 66

Enjoying DivX Videos. 70

About DivX Video Files. 70 Playing DivX Video Files. 71
Using Various Additional Functions. 73
Locking Discs (CUSTOM PARENTAL CONTROL, PARENTAL CONTROL). 73 Controlling Your TV or AV Amplifier (Receiver) With the Supplied Remote. 77
Settings and Adjustments. 80
Using the Setup Display. Setting the Display or Sound Track Language (LANGUAGE SETUP). Settings for the Display (SCREEN SETUP). Custom Settings (CUSTOM SETUP). Settings for the Sound (AUDIO SETUP). Settings for the Speakers (SPEAKER SETUP). 85 87
Additional Information. 90
Troubleshooting. Self-diagnosis Function (When letters/numbers appear in the display). Glossary. Specifications. Language Code List. Index. 98 99

About This Manual

Check your model name
The instructions in this manual are for the 2 models: DVP-NS955V and DVP-LS785V. Check your model name by looking at the front panel of the player. DVP-NS955V is the model used for illustration purposes. Any difference in operation is clearly indicated in the text, for example, DVPNS955V only. Instructions in this manual describe the controls on the remote. You can also use the controls on the player if they have the same or similar names as those on the remote. DVD may be used as a general term for DVD VIDEOs, DVD+RWs/DVD+Rs and DVD-RWs/DVD-Rs. The meaning of the icons used in this manual is described below:

Copyrights

This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.
Index to Parts and Controls
For more information, see the pages indicated in parentheses.

Front panel

DVP-NS955V

DVP-LS785V

A [/1 (on/standby) button (32) B SUPER AUDIO CD indicator (37, 94) Lights up when:
playing an HD (High Density) layer of Super Audio CDs. no disc is inserted.
J PROGRESSIVE button/indicator (19) Lights up when the player outputs progressive signals. K Front panel display (10) L Remote sensor (16) M FL OFF (Front panel display off) indicator (DVP-NS955V only) (83) N VIDEO OFF indicator (DVP-NS955V only) (32) O H/Playback Dial (DVP-LS785V only) (32, 44, 45)
C MULTI CHANNEL indicator (37, 94) Lights up when:
playing a disc that contains multiple audio signal channels. no disc is inserted.
D Disc tray (32) E A (open/close) button (32) F H (play) button (DVP-NS955V only) (32) G X (pause) button (33) H x (stop) button (33) I./> (previous/next) buttons (DVP-NS955V only) (44)

Front panel display

When playing back a DVD VIDEO/DVD-RW
Disc type Playing status Lights up when you can change the angle (57)
Lights up during Repeat Play (41)
Current audio signal (53)
Current title/chapter or playing time (49)
When playing back a VIDEO CD with Playback Control (PBC) (38)

Disc type Playing status

Lights up during A-B Repeat Play (42)
Current scene or playing time (49)
When playing back a Super Audio CD, CD, DATA DVD (DivX video), DATA CD (MP3 audio/ DivX video), or VIDEO CD (without PBC)

Playing status

Current track*2 (49)

Disc type*1

Lights up when playing MP3 audio tracks (62)

Playing time (49)

*1 When playing the HD layer of Super Audio CDs, the disc type is not displayed. *2 When playing DivX video files, the current track is not displayed. z Hint You can adjust the lighting of the front panel display by setting DISPLAY (DVP-NS955V only) or DIMMER (DVP-LS785V only) in CUSTOM SETUP. (page 83)

Rear panel

COAXIAL

OPTICAL L

CENTER

R-AUDIO-L

R PCM/DTS/MPEG/ DOLBY DIGITAL WOOFER

When you play video-based software in progressive signal format, sections of some types of images may appear unnatural due to the conversion process when output through the COMPONENT VIDEO OUT jacks. Images from the S VIDEO OUT and LINE OUT (VIDEO) jacks are unaffected as they are output in the normal (interlace) format. If you set LINE in SCREEN SETUP to RGB, then the player switches to NORMAL (INTERLACE). This will happen even though you select PROGRESSIVE AUTO or PROGRESSIVE VIDEO.
Step 4: Connecting the Audio Cords
Refer to the chart below to select the connection that best suits your system. Be sure to also read the instructions for the components you wish to connect.

Select a connection

Select one of the following connections,
Components to be connected TV
Surround effects: TVS DYNAMIC (page 54) TVS WIDE (page 54)

through

Your setup (example)

Connection

(page 23)
Stereo amplifier (receiver) and 2 speakers
Surround effects: TVS STANDARD (page 54)

(page 24)

or MD deck/DAT deck
AV amplifier (receiver) having a Dolby*1 Surround (Pro Logic) decoder and 3 to 6 speakers
Surround effects: Dolby Surround (Pro Logic) (page 94)

(page 25)

AV amplifier (receiver) with 5.1 ch input jacks and 4 to 6 speakers
Surround effects: Dolby Digital (5.1 ch) (page 94) DTS (5.1 ch) (page 94) Super Audio CD Multi channel (page 94) MPEG audio (5.1 ch) (page 94)

(page 26)

or AV amplifier (receiver) with digital input jacks having a Dolby Digital, DTS*2, or MPEG audio decoder and 6 speakers
Surround effects: Dolby Digital (5.1 ch) (page 94) DTS (5.1 ch) (page 94) MPEG audio (5.1 ch) (page 94)
z Hint If you connect an AV amplifier (receiver) that conforms to the 96 kHz sampling frequency, use connection D. *1 Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. Dolby, Pro Logic, and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories. *2 Manufactured under license from Digital Theater Systems, Inc. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,451,942; 5,956,674; 5,974,380; 5,978,762; 6, 226, 616; 6, 487, 535 and other U.S. and world-wide patents issued and pending. DTS and DTS Digital Surround are registered trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc. Copyright 1996, 2003 Digital Theater Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Step 5: Connecting the Mains Lead
Plug the player and TV mains lead (power cord) into a mains.

Step 6: Quick Setup

Follow the steps below to make the minimum number of basic adjustments for using the player. To skip an adjustment, press >. To return to the previous adjustment, press.

"/1

./>
1 Turn on the TV. 2 Press [/1. 3 Switch the input selector on your
TV so that the signal from the player appears on the TV screen.
Press [ENTER] to run QUICK SETUP appears at the bottom of the screen. If this message does not appear, select QUICK under SETUP in the Control Menu to run Quick Setup (page 81).
LANGUAGE SETUP OSD: MENU: AUDIO: SUBTITLE:
ENGLISH ENGLISH FRANAIS DEUTSCH ITALIANO ESPAOL NEDERLANDS DANSK SVENSKA
5 Press X/x to select a language.
The player displays the menu and subtitles in the selected language.
4 Press ENTER without inserting a
The Setup Display for selecting the language used in the on-screen display appears.

6 Press ENTER.

The Setup Display for selecting the aspect ratio of the TV to be connected appears.
SCREEN SETUP TV TYPE: SCREEN SAVER: BACKGROUND: LINE: 4:3 OUTPUT: 16:9 16:9 4:3 LETTER BOX 4:3 PAN SCAN FULL

10Press ENTER.

The Setup Display for selecting the type of jack used to connect your amplifier (receiver) appears.
Is this player connected to an amplifier (receiver)? Select the type of jack you are using.
YES LINE OUTPUT L/R(AUDIO) DIGITAL OUTPUT DIGITAL & 5.1CH OUTPUT NO
7 Press X/x to select the setting that

matches your TV type.

If you have a wide-screen TV or a 4:3 standard TV with a wide-screen mode 16:9 (page 82) If you have a 4:3 standard TV 4:3 LETTER BOX or 4:3 PAN SCAN (page 82)
11Press X/x to select the type of
jack (if any) you are using to connect to an amplifier (receiver), then press ENTER.
Choose the item that matches the audio connection you selected on pages 23 to 26 ( A through D ).

DVP-NS955V [/1 A H

4 Press A on the player, and place a

disc on the disc tray.

Playback side facing down H/ Playback Dial

DVP-LS785V [/1 A

5 Press H.
The disc tray closes. The player starts playback (continuous play). Adjust the volume on the TV or the amplifier (receiver). Depending on the disc, a menu may appear on the TV screen. For DVD VIDEOs, see page 35. For VIDEO CDs, see page 38.
To enjoy the clarity of Super Audio CD/CD sound more (DVP-NS955V only)
You can minimize the effect of the video output by switching it off. Press VIDEO ON/OFF, so that the VIDEO OFF indicator lights up on the player. To cancel the setting, press VIDEO ON/OFF again.
VIDEO ON/OFF (DVPNS955V only) H

To turn off the player

Press [/1. The player enters standby mode.
z Hint The player turns off automatically whenever you leave it in stop mode for more than 30 minutes. (Auto Power Off function)
1 Turn on your TV. 2 Press [/1.

The player turns on.

Additional operations

CLEAR ALBUM +/ ZOOM

*2 DVD VIDEOs/DVD-RWs/DVD-Rs/ DVD+RWs only. The button cannot be used for DivX video files. *3 Video and JPEG pictures only (except BACKGROUND pictures). You can move the enlarged picture using C/X/x/c. Depending upon the contents of the disc, the zoom function may be cancelled automatically when the picture is moved. *4 DATA CDs/DATA DVDs only. *5 For more details about the H/Playback Dial, see page 45. z Hints The Instant Replay function is useful when you want to review a scene or dialogue that you missed. The Instant Advance function is useful when you want to pass over a scene that you dont want to watch.
(instant replay) (instant advance) x
To Stop Pause Resume play after pause
Operation Press x Press X Press X or H
You may not be able to use the Instant Replay or Instant Advance function with some scenes.
Locking the disc tray (Child Lock)
You can lock the disc tray to prevent children from opening it.
Go to the next chapter, Press > on the track, or scene in remote, or briefly turn continuous play mode the H/Playback Dial*5 (DVP-LS785V only) on the player clockwise Go back to the previous chapter, track, or scene in continuous play mode Press. on the remote, or briefly turn the H/Playback Dial*5 (DVP-LS785V only) on the player counterclockwise
Stop play and remove Press Z the disc Replay the previous scene*1 Briefly fast forward the current scene*2 Magnify the image*3 Press (instant replay) during playback Press (instant advance) during playback Press ZOOM repeatedly. Press CLEAR to cancel. Press ALBUM + or during playback

Selected title and chapter
To cancel all of the titles, chapters, or tracks in the programmed order
When playing a VIDEO CD, Super Audio CD, or CD For example, select track 02. Press X/x to select 02 under T, then press ENTER. The track number may be displayed in 3 digits for a Super Audio CD.

Selected track

PROGRAM ALL CLEAR 1. TRACK 2. TRACK 3. TRACK 4. TRACK 5. TRACK 6. TRACK 7. TRACK 02 0:15:30 T 05
Follow steps 1 to 3 of Creating your own programme (Programme Play). Press X and select ALL CLEAR. Press ENTER.
z Hint You can perform Repeat Play or Shuffle Play of programmed titles, chapters, or tracks. During Programme Play, follow the steps of Repeat Play (page 41) or Shuffle Play (page 40).
When you programme tracks on a Super VCD, the total playing time is not displayed. You cannot use this function with VIDEO CDs and Super VCDs with PBC playback.
Total time of the programmed tracks
To programme other titles, chapters, or tracks, repeat steps 4 to 5.
The programmed titles, chapters, and tracks are displayed in the selected order.
Playing in random order (Shuffle Play)
You can have the player shuffle titles, chapters, or tracks. Subsequent shuffling may produce a different playing order.
Press H to start Programme Play.
Programme Play begins. When the programme ends, you can restart the same programme again by pressing H.

CLEAR SHUFFLE

To return to normal play
Press CLEAR, or select OFF after step 2. To play the same programme again, select ON in step 3 and press ENTER.
To change or cancel a programme
Follow steps 1 to 3 of Creating your own programme (Programme Play).
Press SHUFFLE during playback.
Playing repeatedly (Repeat Play)
Press SHUFFLE repeatedly to select the item to be shuffled.
When playing a DVD VIDEO TITLE CHAPTER When playing a VIDEO CD,Super Audio CD, or CD TRACK When Programme Play is activated ON: shuffles titles, chapters, or tracks selected in Programme Play.

You can play all of the titles or tracks on a disc, or a single title, chapter, or track repeatedly. You can use a combination of Shuffle or Programme Play modes.

CLEAR REPEAT

Press CLEAR, or select OFF in step 2.
z Hints You can set Shuffle Play while the player is stopped. After selecting the SHUFFLE option, press H. Shuffle Play starts. Up to 200 chapters in a disc can be played in random order when CHAPTER is selected.
Press REPEAT during playback.
You cannot use this function with VIDEO CDs and Super VCDs with PBC playback.
Press REPEAT repeatedly to select the item to be repeated.
When playing a DVD VIDEO DISC: repeats all of the titles. TITLE: repeats the current title on a disc. CHAPTER: repeats the current chapter. When playing a DVD-RW DISC: repeats all the titles of the selected type. TITLE: repeats the current title on a disc. CHAPTER: repeats the current chapter.
When playing a VIDEO CD, Super Audio CD, or CD DISC: repeats all of the tracks. TRACK: repeats the current track. When playing a DATA CD/DATA DVD DISC: repeats all of the albums. ALBUM: repeats the current album. TRACK (MP3 audio tracks only): repeats the current track. FILE (DivX video files only): repeats the current file. When Programme Play or Shuffle Play is activated ON: repeats Programme Play or Shuffle Play.
Repeating a specific portion (AB Repeat Play)
You can play a specific portion of a title, chapter or track repeatedly. (This function is useful when you want to memorize lyrics, etc.)
z Hint You can set Repeat Play while the player is stopped. After selecting the REPEAT option, press H. Repeat Play starts. ENTER X/x DISPLAY
You cannot use this function with VIDEO CDs and Super VCDs with PBC playback. When repeating a DATA CD which contains MP3 audio tracks and JPEG image files, and their playing times are not the same, the sound will not match the image. When MODE (MP3, JPEG) is set to IMAGE (JPEG) (page 67), you cannot select TRACK.
Press DISPLAY during playback.
Press X/x to select (A-B REPEAT), then press ENTER.
The options for A-B REPEAT appear.

L: Front speaker (left) R: Front speaker (right) : Virtual speaker
For 4 to 6 speaker setups
You can enjoy the following surround effects by using the 2 front speakers and 2 rear speakers. Connect the player to the amplifier (receiver) with the D-1 connection (page 26). You can experience Dolby Surround (Pro Logic) sounds or Digital Cinema Sound (DCS). DCS uses sound imaging to shift the sound of the rear speakers away from the actual speaker position or create entire sets of virtual rear speakers from one set of actual rear speakers. VIRTUAL REAR SHIFT, VIRTUAL MULTI REAR, and VIRTUAL MULTI DIMENSION make use of this technology.
VIRTUAL MULTI REAR Creates an array of virtual rear speakers from a single set of actual rear speakers. The position of the virtual rear speakers differs according to REAR or SIDE setting of the rear speakers (page 87).
L: Front speaker (left) R: Front speaker (right) LS: Rear speaker (left) RS: Rear speaker (right) : Virtual speaker
When you select one of the surround modes, turn off the surround setting of the connected TV or amplifier (receiver). Not all discs will respond to the TVS NIGHT function in the same way. To enjoy the multichannel audio through the 5.1CH OUTPUT jacks, correctly set each speaker position and distance (page 26, 87). When the playing signal does not contain a signal for the rear speakers, you cannot hear the TVS effect. When you select one of the TVS modes, the player does not output the sound of centre speaker. Make sure that your listening position is between and at an equal distance from your speakers, and that the speakers are located in similar surroundings. If you use the DIGITAL OUT (OPTICAL or COAXIAL) jack and set DOLBY DIGITAL to DOLBY DIGITAL, DTS to DTS, and MPEG to MPEG in AUDIO SETUP, sound will come from your speakers but it will not have the SURROUND effect.
VIRTUAL MULTI DIMENSION Creates an array of virtual rear speaker positions higher than the listener from a single set of actual rear speakers. This mode creates five sets of virtual speakers surrounding the listener at approximately a 30 angle of elevation. The effect differs according to REAR or SIDE setting of the rear speakers (page 87).

Enjoying Movies

Displaying the Subtitles

Changing the Angles

If various angles (multi-angles) for a scene are recorded on the DVD VIDEO, appears in the front panel display. This means that you can change the viewing angle. If subtitles are recorded on the discs, you can change the subtitles or turn them on and off whenever you want while playing the disc.

1 Press 1 Press

(subtitle) during playback.

(angle) during playback.

1:ENGLISH

If you select a language in MENU, SUBTITLE, or AUDIO that is not recorded on a DVD VIDEO, one of the recorded languages will be automatically selected.

Settings for the Display

(SCREEN SETUP)
Choose settings according to the TV to be connected. Select SCREEN SETUP in the Setup Display. To use the display, see Using the Setup Display (page 80). The default settings are underlined.
SCREEN SETUP TV TYPE: SCREEN SAVER: BACKGROUND: LINE: 4:3 OUTPUT: 16:9 ON JACKET PICTURE VIDEO FULL
Depending on the DVD, 4:3 LETTER BOX may be selected automatically instead of 4:3 PAN SCAN or vice versa.

SCREEN SAVER

The screen saver image appears when you leave the player in pause or stop mode for 15 minutes, or when you play a Super Audio CD, CD, or DATA CD (MP3 audio) for more than 15 minutes. The screen saver will help prevent your display device from becoming damaged (ghosting). Press H to turn off the screen saver.
ON OFF Turns on the screen saver. Turns off the screen saver.

BACKGROUND TV TYPE

Selects the aspect ratio of the connected TV (4:3 standard or wide).
16:9 Select this when you connect a wide-screen TV or a TV with a wide mode function. Select this when you connect a 4:3 screen TV. Displays a wide picture with bands on the upper and lower portions of the screen.
Selects the background colour or picture on the TV screen when the player is in stop mode or while playing a Super Audio CD, CD, or DATA CD (MP3 audio).
JACKET PICTURE The jacket picture (still picture) appears, but only when the jacket picture is already recorded on the disc (CDEXTRA, etc.). If the disc does not contain a jacket picture, the GRAPHICS picture appears.

4:3 LETTER BOX

GRAPHICS A preset picture stored in the player appears. BLUE BLACK The background colour is blue. The background colour is black.
4:3 Select this when you connect a PAN SCAN 4:3 screen TV. Automatically displays the wide picture on the entire screen and cuts off the portions that do not fit.
Selects video signals output from the LINE (RGB)-TV jack on the rear panel of the player.
VIDEO Outputs video signals. Outputs S video signals. Outputs RGB signals. S VIDEO RGB

4:3 PAN SCAN

If your TV does not accept S video or the RGB signals, no picture will appear on the TV screen, even if you select S VIDEO or RGB. Refer to the instructions supplied with your TV. When you select RGB, you cannot use the PROGRESSIVE button or the COMPONENT VIDEO OUT jacks.

Custom Settings (CUSTOM

SETUP)
Use this to set up playback related and other settings. Select CUSTOM SETUP in the Setup Display. To use the display, see Using the Setup Display (page 80). The default settings are underlined.
CUSTOM SETUP AUTO PLAY: OFF DISPLAY: BRIGHT AUTO PAUSE MODE: ON PLAYBACK MEMORY: TRACK SELECTION: OFF MULTI-DISC RESUME: ON Registration Code DivX:

4:3 OUTPUT

This setting is effective only when you set TV TYPE in SCREEN SETUP to 16:9. Adjust to watch 4:3 aspect ratio progressive signals. If you can change the aspect ratio on your progressive format (525p/625p) compatible TV, change the setting on your TV, not the player. This setting is effective only when PROGRESSIVE AUTO or PROGRESSIVE VIDEO is selected by using the PROGRESSIVE button on the front panel.
FULL Select this when you can change the aspect ratio on your TV. Select this when you cannot change the aspect ratio on your TV. Shows a 16:9 aspect ratio signal with black bands on left and right sides of the image.

AUTO PLAY

Switches the Auto Play setting on or off. This function is useful when the player is connected to a timer (not supplied).
OFF ON Switches this function off. Automatically starts playback when the player is turned on by a timer (not supplied).

NORMAL

DISPLAY (DVP-NS955V only)
Adjusts the lighting of the front panel display.

BRIGHT

16:9 aspect ratio TV
Makes the lighting bright. Makes the lighting dark. Makes the lighting dark if you do not operate the player or remote for a short while.

DARK AUTO DARK

AUTO OFF Turns off the lighting if you do not operate the player or remote for a while. OFF (FL OFF) Turns off the lighting.

DIMMER (DVP-LS785V only)

BRIGHT DARK AUTO DARK Makes the lighting bright. Makes the lighting dark. Makes the lighting dark if you do not operate the player or remote for a short while.
TRACK SELECTION (DVD VIDEO only)
Gives the sound track which contains the highest number of channels priority when you play a DVD VIDEO on which multiple audio formats (PCM, MPEG audio, DTS, or Dolby Digital format) are recorded.
OFF AUTO No priority given. Priority given.
PAUSE MODE (DVD VIDEO/DVD-RW only)
Selects the picture in pause mode.
AUTO The picture, including subjects that move dynamically, is output with no jitter. Normally select this position. The picture, including subjects that do not move dynamically, is output in high resolution.
When you set the item to AUTO, the language may change. The TRACK SELECTION setting has higher priority than the AUDIO settings in LANGUAGE SETUP (page 81). If PCM, DTS, MPEG audio, and Dolby Digital sound tracks have the same number of channels, the player selects PCM, DTS, Dolby Digital, and MPEG audio sound tracks in this order.

Switches the method for mixing down to 2 channels when you play a DVD which has rear sound elements (channels) or is recorded in Dolby Digital format. For details on the rear signal components, see Checking the audio signal format (page 53). This function affects the output of the following jacks: LINE OUT L/R (AUDIO) jacks LINE (RGB) TV jack DIGITAL OUT (OPTICAL or COAXIAL) jack when DOLBY DIGITAL and DTS is set to D-PCM (page 86).
DOLBY SURROUND NORMAL Normally, select this position. Multi-channel audio signals are output to 2 channels for enjoying surround sounds. Multi-channel audio signals are downmixed to 2 channels for use with your stereo.

AUDIO ATT (attenuation)

If the playback sound is distorted, set this item to ON. The player reduces the audio output level. This function affects the output of the following jacks: LINE OUT L/R (AUDIO) jacks LINE (RGB) TV jack 5.1CH OUTPUT jacks
OFF ON Normally, select this position. Select this when the playback sound from the speakers is distorted.
AUDIO DRC (Dynamic Range Control) (DVD VIDEO/DVD-RW only)
Makes the sound clear when the volume is turned down when playing a DVD that conforms to AUDIO DRC. This function affects the output from the following jacks: LINE OUT L/R (AUDIO) jacks LINE (RGB)-TV jacks 5.1 CH OUTPUT jacks DIGITAL OUT (OPTICAL or COAXIAL) jack only when DOLBY DIGITAL is set to D-PCM (page 86).
STANDARD Normally, select this position. TV MODE Makes low sounds clear even if you turn the volume down.

DIGITAL OUT

Selects if audio signals are output via the DIGITAL OUT (OPTICAL or COAXIAL) jack.
ON Normally select this position. When you select ON, see Setting the digital output signal for further settings. The influence of the digital circuit upon the analog circuit is minimal.
Super Audio CD audio signals are not output from a DIGITAL OUT jack.
MPEG (DVD VIDEO/DVD-RW only)
Selects the type of MPEG audio signal.
PCM Select this when the player is connected to an audio component without a built-in MPEG decoder. If you play multi-channel MPEG audio sound tracks, only the Front (L) and Front (R) signals will be output from your two front speakers. Select this when the player is connected to an audio component with a built-in MPEG decoder.
Setting the digital output signal

First three characters of the service number C 13
Cause and/or corrective action
The disc is dirty or recorded in a format that this player cannot play (page 7). , Clean the disc with a soft cloth or check its format (page 8). The disc is not inserted correctly. , Re-insert the disc correctly.
E XX To prevent a malfunction, the (xx is a number) player has performed the self-diagnosis function. , Contact your nearest Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility and give the 5character service number. Example: E 61 10

Glossary

Album (page 62, 64)
A unit in which to store JPEG image files or MP3 audio tracks on a DATA CD. (Album is an exclusive definition for this player.)

DTS (page 21, 86)

Digital audio compression technology that Digital Theater Systems, Inc. developed. This technology conforms to multi-channel surround sound. The rear channel is stereo and there is a discrete subwoofer channel in this format. DTS provides the same discrete channels of high quality digital audio. Good channel separation is realized because all of the channel data is recorded discretely and little deterioration is realized because all channel data processing is digital.

Chapter (page 10)

Sections of a picture or a music feature that are smaller than titles. A title is composed of several chapters. Depending on the disc, no chapters may be recorded.

DVD VIDEO (page 6)

A disc that contains up to 8 hours of moving pictures even though its diameter is the same as a CD. The data capacity of a single-layer and singlesided DVD is 4.7 GB (Giga Byte), which is 7 times that of a CD. The data capacity of a double-layer and single-sided DVD is 8.5 GB, a single-layer and double-sided DVD is 9.4 GB, and double-layer and double-sided DVD is 17 GB. The picture data uses the MPEG 2 format, a worldwide standard of digital compression technology. The picture data is compressed to about 1/40 (average) of its original size. The DVD also uses a variable rate coding technology that changes the data to be allocated according to the status of the picture. Audio information is recorded in a multi-channel format, such as Dolby Digital, allowing you to enjoy a more realistic audio presence. Furthermore, various advanced functions such as the multi-angle, multilingual, and Parental Control functions are provided with the DVD.

DivX (page 70)

Digital video technology created by DivXNetworks, Inc. Videos encoded with DivX technology are among the highest quality with a relatively small file size.