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I've scoured the internet, and I just can't find what I consider to be a trusted source on this topic. I have a 2 part question: Our DVD player, a Toshiba SD-V291 (VCR + DVD) has been skipping and doing stop-start "hiccuping" on DVDs (including brand new ones) that play just fine on my laptop, other players, etc. First, why is it doing this (a cleaner has been used to no avail), and second, because we're thinking of getting a multi-DVD changer anyway (but accelerated due to this), what brands/models have my FRiends here at FR had better luck with?

Before i bought my Dvd player, I was pondering why everyone complains Sony Dvd players (i'm not sure how many models) take a while to load and start.

TOKYO - Two Japanese companies said Tuesday they have developed a DVD that can play on both existing machines and the upcoming high-definition players, raising hopes for a smooth transition as more people dump old TV sets for better screens. Toshiba Corp. and Memory-Tech Corp. said their disc has a dual-layered surface that can store both types of data on the same side. For consumers, that would eliminate the potential headache of having to own two types of DVD players: Both will be able to read such discs, though only the newer equipment can take advantage of the higher-resolution technology....