Magic DVD Player Reviewer's Comments

MagicDVD, produced by Emetrix, is an average DVD player. Although this program produces a good video picture, it lacks the audio superiority and feature set enrichment available in leading DVD-players.

Feature Set:  

MagicDVD has one convenient, frequently-requested feature: the software allows for multi-channel audio. This feature provides surround sound using three or more selected channels. With the exception of this feature, MagicDVD is limited in feature options. This program does not offer parental controls settings-a feature in demand with parents' increasing concern over the content of movies. This software also does not offer the ability to capture an image or resume a movie from a previous viewing.

Ease of Use:  

This software program is not easy to navigate for the novice. The program requires some troubleshooting knowledge if more than one DVD-player software program is installed on the computer. When attempting to play a movie, the video would often freeze while the audio would continue to play. Even when it was the only player installed on a given computer, MagicDVD often crashed while playing a DVD-a hang-up shared by only one other player we tested. Without prior experience, this frequent problem would be difficult to remedy.

Ease of Installation:  

MagicDVD has an excellent installation and setup process. The basic installation steps are straightforward and we had no errors.

Video Quality:  

The video quality of MagicDVD is good-it presents a sharp, clear image on the screen. With the addition of a few enhanced features, the video quality would improve even more.

Audio Quality:  

MagicDVD's audio quality doesn't match up to that of competing software. Even though we used the same standard settings with each player we tested, we always had to increase the volume settings on MagicDVD in order to hear the movie. MagicDVD's audio system could use an overhaul.

Help/Support:  

MagicDVD comes with very little help documentation. The software user must contact Emetrix through email-a tedious waiting game if you encounter many difficulties.

Summary:  

Although MagicDVD produces a good video picture, the software lacks features and support. When selecting a DVD player it would be wise to pay a bit more up front in order to receive a higher quality player. For a look at all of the players and features we've reviewed, check out our homepage.