I posted a few days ago how I wasn't impressed with the 415's VCD abilities to play non spec VCDs. While this is still true, the good news is that I have discovered that SVCD is its format of choice! I'll post a proper review of the 415u in the DVD players list, once I have all the details and am done with its sea trials.
I am looking for other Hitachi 415u owners to chat about what theirs can do and any info about SVCDS, firmware versions, mp3, etc. email me at kbruce@interlog.com

Bong