The changer has three types of video output jacks: composite, S-video,
and component video. We attached a component-video cable (not supplied)
to a 36-inch TV. The quality was fantastic due to this premium-quality
connection and the DVD player's 10-bit, 27 MHz video digital-to-analog
converters. If you're serious about video, we strongly recommended
buying a television with component-video inputs.

The DVD-CV51 offers extensive features tailored for video buffs,
including black level control (two levels) plus the ability to adjust
contrast, brightness, and color. You also can choose a specific frame on
which to adjust picture parameters (called I/P/B). We like to tweak as
much as the next person, but the factory settings needed no adjustments.
Still, it's nice to know they're there. The unit lacks a topnotch
progressive-scan video output, but at this price one can hardly be
expected.

The unit passes (but doesn't decode) Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1-channel
surround sound signals using an optical digital-audio cable, which is
not supplied. To experience surround sound, you must connect it to an
audio-video receiver with built-in Dolby Digital and DTS decoders.

The player also has a subwoofer output to plug into an active floor
shaker--and this will let you enjoy the benefits of a subwoofer with
your stereo speakers even if you do not have a surround receiver or
separate center and rear surround speakers.

We listened to the depth charges and flying bolts in Das Boot and got
ready to don our life vests, the sound was that good (even without a
subwoofer). Along with Dolby and DTS, the player has two levels of
Virtual Surround Sound for an ersatz multichannel audio experience. This
feature is merely okay, nothing more or less.

After listening to a few other soundtracks, we popped in some compact
discs and found the audio quality rich and full, not thin or tinny as
with other affordable DVD players. The player handles CD-R/RW audio
discs and MP3-encoded discs. We burned an old Etta Jones disc on a PC
and put it in the new DVD/CD changer. It read and played it back without
a hitch.

The key to any good electronics component--besides its performance--is
its human interface: in this case the remote control, onscreen menus,
and owner's manual. It was here the Panasonic did not live up to the
high standards set by its video and audio performance. The layout of the
keys of the remote is not as intuitive as it could be. It's also a
DVD-only remote (no TV controls) and lacks lighted keys.

The basic onscreen menu is legible, however, and a breeze to use for
frequently used topics (audio, video, subtitles). Even still, drilling
down a level or three to change picture quality brings up small icons
whose purpose is difficult to discern, though the owner's manual helps.
On the plus side, you can move the icon bars to the center of the screen
to read them more easily.

The bottom line? Highly recommended. An excellent five-disc DVD/CD
changer that takes just a little time to learn how to use. --David
Elrich

Pros:

• Excellent picture and sound performance
• Component-video output
  connections
• Subwoofer output for systems without surround sound
• Handles
  CD-R/RW and MP3 files
• Disc indicator tells you if a loaded disc is a CD
  (green light) or DVD (orange)

Cons:

• DVD-only remote, no lighted keys
• Onscreen icons and remote not
  as intuitive as they should be
• Lacks built-in Dolby Digital or DTS
  decoders