Samsung R135 and divx files question

[lorac]

I bought the Samsung R135 DVD Recorder specifically for playing Divx files... I know it's overkill, but the price was right, and have a question about aspect ratio. The avi file is being stretched to almost fit the screen. I have a standard Sony TV set to 4:3 widescreen in both the TV and DVD setup. The avi files are Xvid captured from HD satellite broadcast and/or rips (not advocating warez) filmed in 16:9 aspect ratio.

Many other DVD players Ive tried... and I've tried a few, play the files in the correct aspec ratio, especially the Philips DVD players, but they cannot handle srt subtitles well enough to justify keeping any of the units. I did not buy a Philips (already own the 342) because I need an S-video connection.

What I like about the Samsung is that it handles srt subtitle very well. Large enough to read, stays in time according to the timing track of the srt file, white with black outline to be readable white-on-white. What I don't like is stretching aspect ratio of the video.

Can anyone suggest what I should check in setup in order to maintain correct aspect ratio, or is this just a flaw in the Samsung and the way it handles avi files. (I've emailed Samsung, but it may be a while before hearing form them.)

Any suggestions are most appreciated. I've tried half a dozen DVD players and every one had subtitle issues, mostly in not honoring the timeing track of the srt file...and yes, the srt files are timed correctly. I've just about given up on finding the ultimate DVD Divx stand-alone. I've thought of trying the Yamaha but am not sure how it handles Divx and srt files, and it is pricey.

[RabidDog]

what you need to do is to experiment with whatever software you are using to make the xvid files, AUtoGK or gordian knot ??
in there you will have options for setting the resolution. or maybe try modifying the files headers with mpeg4modifier eg changing aspect ratio from WS to Normal. Failing all that use the WS/LB?Normal button on your TV remote

[lorac]

Thanks for the reply. I don't create the files; I leave that to the experts. Somehow I think it is the Samsung, not the avi files. These same files play without aspect ratio issues on the Philips 642. Other players I've tried stretch a little, but not like the Samsung which stretches a lot.

modifying the files headers with mpeg4modifier eg changing aspect ratio from WS to Normal

And how would this change how the DVD player handles the file? I don't want full screen, but instead the original aspect ratio. I'll check out one of the files to see what happens.

A dream machine would be combining the Samsung subtitles with a Philips that does not stretch the file. And I'm really only looking for a replacement of the Philips because it's old and cannot play a lot of the newer files without issues, especially TV captures.

The Samsung hung up on a commercial DVD... got stuck and shut down. Even my computer DVD ROM could not play the file. My Chinese Shinco played right past it, but I think Chinese DVD players are more forgiving because their DVDs and VCDs tend to be lower quality, so they make players that can handle those issues. Too bad it does not play Divx files.