Do Blu-Ray and HD-DVD players play regular DVDs?
Others have answered correctly … yes, players of both formats will upconvert and play “regular” DVDs. BUT, unless you are going to buy an HDTV larger than about 45″ you won’t see any/much benefit from Blu-Ray or HD DVD over standard DVDs. Also, look for a player with 1080p/24 fps (the native resolution and frame rate for both Blu-Ray and HD-DVD) output and an HDTV that can accept it. This way you will avoid several scaling stages and get a better picture. Wait until November to buy because the third generation Samsung Blu-Ray players will be out then and at least some will have 1080p/24 output capability … plus lower prices. My suggestion is to do a lot of reading about Blu-ray and HD DVD players, resolution and frame rate, and connections (e.g. HDMI and component) before making any buying decision. See the links for a starting point ….
