DVD-ROMs, etc...

[vesther]

I'm considering getting a DVD-ROM pretty soon. I already know that I will need to get a Toshiba 16x DVD-ROM (I'm currently using a Toshiba CD-ROM, don't know CD-ROM Speed). What do I need in order to have the Toshiba 16x DVD-ROM run properly? I am currently running a 128MB SDRAM PC100, Pentium II-400MHz MMX, ATI Rage Pro Graphics Card, Windows Millenium System, and I would definitely like to know what sound cards, DVD Decoders, Graphic Cards, and other stuff that I would need in order to start playing DVD Movies on my computer. If you know the "parts" that I need to play DVDs on my computer, then I appreciate your help!!!

P.S. I don't know if Toshiba's DVD-ROM Drives require a Decoder because I found out at Toshiba's site that the Toshiba DVD-ROM Drives are "Plug 'N Play" meaning that there are no required decoders needed. Do you think I need a Decoder even with Toshiba's DVD ROM Drive?

[kenyg]

It's my understanding that you really only need a hardware decoder if either your system isn't powerful enough, or if you intend to pump the signal out to your TV.

I think your CPU should be powerful enough to play DVD's by software alone.


Ken

[Gomer]

The RealMedia Hollywood II decoder is a great card... not very expensive either.

[eagle1]

I'm pretty sure that you can view the movies well in your system. And you have an ATI video card which it is probable that it has Hardware Motion Compensation in it so it helps DVD playback and you wont really need a decoder card (unless you want tv-out ,etc).!

For your hearing pleasure I recommend the Sound Blaster Live 5.1 but it just doesn't do justice if you have crappy speakers... so invest in some good speakers too.. or you can connect (via RCA cables) your stereo equipment (and if it is surround sound--better).!

[vesther]

I'm thinking about getting an ATI Radeon VEcard (Card comes with ATI's HydraVision Technology) because (1)It's only $130USD or less and (2)I think it can play DVDs pretty well, but I have to keep on shopping for the best Video Card Deals, because another computer firm recommended me an ATI Rage Maxx AGP 64MB. I have another question--Does the ATI Rage Maxx 64MB have the ability to play DVDs?

[Bsdboy]

Get a Radeon it's a much better card.I have an AIW Radeon and it plays DVDs great.

Bsdboy

[vesther]

Ok, ok. Now I understand that the best Graphics Card for the DVD-ROM is the ATI Radeon VE Now I'm set with the Graphics Card. Now time for the Sound Cards that would make a good DVD Entertainment Facility in your computer. What sound card I should use? I was thinking about a Creative Labs Sound Blaster LIVE! 5.1 MP3 Player and/or X-Gamer. What sound card would be best for me to use in combination of the DVD-ROM and the ATI Radeon VE Video Card?

[VERT]

what I use is a DVD decoder card hooked up to a Dolby digtal/ dts amp with 2 x front, 2 x rear and a centre speaker (home stereo components).

[Bsdboy]

vesther: on your Sounblaster question they are both the same card the only difference between them is the software bundle,just pick the one with the bundle that sounds better for you.

Bsdboy

[RayH]

You install the DVD ROM the same as a CD ROM. Until you have DVD movie playback software, the DVD ROM will behave solely as a DVD ROM.

You have an ATI Rage graphics card. It has hardware support for DVD movie playback. If your card didn't come with ATI DVD Playback Software, you should be able to get it from them for $10.

You will probably want their latest upgrade anyway. Playing DVDs on a computer isn't exactly like using a stand alone unit.

I have both ATI and Power DVD 3.0. I prefer Power DVD 3.0 because I can zoom with it to fill my monitor better. But strangely enough, I have several cheap DVDs and Power DVD won't play them. ATI will.

But at $50 for the Power DVD or a decoder card, it may be more feasible to just get a stand alone Apex DVD player!

I originally got into a DVD ROM because it was $25 more than a CD ROM and the player came with my graphics card. So why not? But at that time, stand alone DVD players were over $350!

Now that I have a fair collection of DVDs and VCDs, I popped for a stand alone unit!