The HELIOS HVD2085 is an interesting player, for an audience with specific needs... Not all people have an HD TV ready set, at least we don't. The ability to upscale standard DVDs to as high as 1080p resolution through HDMI and component output is very interesting and will please corresponding buyers. Moreover, the ability to connect to VGA monitors, out of the box region-free, the embedded UOP-off function and the firmware flashing ability will make it even more appealing.

On the other hand, there are several things that may trouble you. The most obvious, its price. The player costs around US$200. In that price range, we would expect the player to support Mpeg4/DivX formats and network connectivity. Its older brother, the X3620, supports these features but costs twice as much. The included remote control needs improvement. NeoDigits informed us that it is already being revised.

Overall, we feel that the HVD2058 is a decent product, slightly overpriced but with unique features, aimed at a specific target group. Maybe, this is a good opportunity to enter the HD world but after buying an HD TV set. Too bad Xmas has been and gone, otherwise I could have asked the boss for a new toy :-)

- The Positive

• Upscales standard DVD titles up to 1080p via HDMI and component interfaces
• Small dimensions and light weight
• Supports China's HVD format
• Can recognize most DVD±R/RW/+R DL disc formats
• Good picture quality
• VGA output supports up to 1280x1024
• Supports both NTSC/PAL formats
• Is region-free out of the box
• Can update its firmware
• Embedded UOP-off function to skip menus/trailers
• Easy setup menus

- The Negative

• High price (US$200)
• Our retail package didn't include a HDMI cable or AAA batteries (normal retail will as NeoDigits claims)
• Included CD/DVD load tray won't stand heavy use
• Remote control needs improvement
• Doesn't support Mpeg4/DivX formats
• According to other reviews, HDMI quality could be better
• In SXGA mode, there is a visible 5cm black band
• Doesn't recognize DVD±DL (DVD+R DL booktype only)