Alba DVD108 Review

Overall Rating

Cheap, stylish

Simple, few features

I bought my first house almost two years ago and whilst we slowly went about decorating each room, money was tight. Having bought a new 29 inch wide-screen TV I was hoping I'd get a bit of money for my Birthday in November (2002) to put aside for a DVD player in the January sales. As it turned out I got even luckier and my Brother bought me one as a joint Birthday and Christmas present - result or what!?

Personally I wanted one as I knew that it was the way forward and I was missing out on all the DVD extras that didn't appear on video. The one that he bought me was the Alba DVD108 player, which on first impressions looked stylish in its silver surround, and was a good size - a good choice by my brother as the new TV was also silver. This was important to me as I like things to match as well as looking good on view. I was also happy with the make as I've always found Alba to be hardwearing and reliable - a must for any electrical product.

At under £70 this is very much at the lower end of the DVD player scale and can be purchased from most electrical retailers, including Argos. The player was very easy to set up although I warn you that you will need another scart lead to connect it to the TV. The diagram in the handbook is easy to follow and each socket is clearly marked.

Using the player couldn't be simpler and although the handbook is easy to use you probably won't need it. Simply by opening the front draw, placing the DVD in place and shutting it will start the DVD automatically. The display screens are easy to follow and offer all the features required at the basic level. Of course this includes scene selection, angle choice, etc. The player can be used on both 16:9 and 4:3 screens. The front of the DVD player is very plain with few buttons so its much easier to use the remote control which is simple, but includes all the buttons you need to not have to get out of your chair.

Although you can play CD's and CD-R discs, there is no MP3 player function. Its also not multi-region which could mean that some foreign imports will not be compatible - so be careful if you see any cheap DVD's on your travels. The player supports surround sound and has Dolby digital output. I've found that the sound is more benefited from a good TV or use of better speakers to support these functions.

Overall I think that this player is ideal for anyone who simply wants to have a DVD player that you can play DVD's on. It has few flashy features but for the price is great value for money and its slim-line look and silver finish will make it look impressive in your lounge. Its living proof that you don't have to splash out on expensive equipment to enjoy the latest technology advances and the DVD has so much more to offer than video from better picture quality to advanced features.

I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for a cheap, simple DVD player or someone that wants one that simply plays DVD's. This would not suit a real film buff who looks for all the extra features to make the experience as fulfilling as possible.