Crispy Screen that's Travel Ready
Written: Apr 22 '07
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Pros: Excellent viewing screen, built in DVD, small foot print
Cons: No longer in production, only comes in silver
The Bottom Line: An outstanding combo that provides crisp video and supports an array of media formats. Would make an excellent small screen addition to any studio, dorm room, camper, or rv.
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| LaFeet's Full Review: Akai CFTD2011 20 in. EDTV-Ready TV/DVD Combo |
I have been on and off the road for several years now. And I try to minimize what items I need to make my life comfortable while traveling. Lets face it. I can not always afford a decent hotel, and sometimes even wind up sharing a room. Many times in the past I have found myself without the use of the television or no DVD capability. And now matter how convenient, the laptop just does not cut it as a full time DVD player.
I managed to come across an unbelievably capable and small TV/DVD combo that seemed to be the answer of my dreams. However, no matter where I looked, I failed to find another AKAI CFTD1529B.
I did manage to come across it's bigger brother, the Akai CFTD2011.
The Akai CFTD2011 is a 20" LCD TV containing a built in DVD player. The DVD player is located on the upper left edge so that it is functional, but out of the way.
This slot style DVD player plays the following formats: DVD, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, CD-DA, CD-R/RW, Picture CD (JPEG),Kodak CD and MP3 media.
The silver color scheme is not my preference, but I use this as a temporary video screen while on the road. The color therefore is negligible.
The LCD screen provides a vivd and crisp viewing platform. Offering 640 x 480 Native resolution with a 500:1
contrast ratio (including 500 cd/m2 brightness and de-interlacing). I have no difficulty focusing in on even the smallest details (was that a tattoo on her leg??)
And with a wide viewing angle(160 degree horizontal & 130 degree vertical) I don't loose much as I get up to go get another brewski.
I like the extra size of the 20" screen, not too big for traveling and not too small (I don't have to squint anymore). It's only a little bulkier than the 1529B and provides what appears to be twice the screen. I also like the fact that the screen takes little or no time to power up (14ms).
With a built in HDTV/Cable tuner I have access to 181 channels, not that there are that many available on the line in use. But it is nice being able to view all the ESPNs.
The arrangement of the varied input / output connections actually help out with travel accommodations. VHF/UHF antenna, A/V composite input, video input Mini Din, component video input, audio input, audio out, digital audio output and an earphone output (mini stereo jack).
{Eee I Eee I Oooo}
Stereo power output for the integrated speakers is limited to 5 Watts a channel, while not earth shaking, they do offer ample sound. I do use a set of Phillips (eggs) MP3 speakers for additional volume. I dislike being tied to the set with a line of headphones, and have not yet invested in a set of wireless headphones. (Another time, another review)
There are additional features that I rarely use. The sleep timer and V-Chip functions are not needed for me. But I like having them if ever decide to put this unit in the girls room.
With a relatively small foot print (the dimensions are 18.2"H x 24.4"W x 8.7"D) and a weight that will not strain even the tenderest of backs (about 10 pounds) I find that I can easily locate this unit anywhere for my viewing pleasure.
Controls are located on front to provide power on/off, volume, channel, Menu selection, and DVD controls. But lets face it, I use the fully functional remote from my bedside if at all possible.
AKAI does provide a an easy to understand User manual (and I actually read this one) that tells how to set up and use your CFTD2011.
As for warranty, you will have to call AKAI. I researched this model and found that it is no longer being manufactured.
But you can find it in many wharehouses and SAMs Store as well as online.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 195.00
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Epinions.com ID:
LaFeet
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Member: Paule Patterson
Location: Cushing, Ok
Reviews written: 314
Trusted by: 36 members
About Me:
Retired Submariner, ex Air-Force Brat, current radiation protection tech, hiding in urban Oklahoma
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