The HD-A2 makes substantial improvements over its HD-A1 predecessor with a smaller, sleeker package and a more ergonomic and usable remote control. Otherwise, the HD-A2 is about the same as the HD-A1: the highest resolution remains 1080i, and it still supports HDMI 1.2 rather than 1.3, so image quality should be identical. Nevertheless, the build quality is still rock solid and the enclosure and components are solid, well-mounted, and display nice fit and finish.

Figure 2: the HD-A2 fits the same innards as the HD-A1 (with a few much-needed improvements) into a sleeker, more compact package.

Issues with load time appear to have improved significantly (instead of the 50-odd seconds reported for the HD-A1, the HD-A2 generally gets going in between 20 and 30 seconds). Far fewer issues with the HDMI interface have been reported with this unit than with the HD-A1, which alone makes it a better choice for those seeking an HDMI experience that's as close to plug and play as new technology will permit.

Thankfully, DVD navigation and device controls for the HD-A2 are also much improved over the HD-A1. There's none of the languid pace to transitions from one menu to another, or anywhere near as much lag in firing off an instruction and seeing some response. Visuals from the player are also outstanding, and should help the sceptical viewer appreciate the real value that HD-DVD can bring to the home theatre experience. Informed listeners also rate the Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby TrueHD output from this unit as offering a truly compelling audio experience.