Lower end units are better?

[JGDragov]

I had a question about low end dvd players(Sampo, Apex, Go.Video etc.) as opposed to high end plyers(Toshiba, Sony etc.). It seems while the big names have some superior features the lesser models give you more options and more reliability. This may be just my personal experience but my Toshiba doesn't play svcds, my Sampo does. My Toshiba has trouble with certain vcds and my Sampo plays them fine. I've noticed that rental dvds play poorly at times on the Toshiba when the Sampo rarely has had any problems. Keep in mind that Sampos as well as Apexes are easily hacked for macrovision and region codes where Sony and Toshiba are virtually impossible.
My brother's Samsung has troble with scratched dvds and what not but Go.Video's DVP855 specialty is playing substandard discs(rentals, damaged etc.) My brother paid $160 for his unit where the DVP855 is only $69 at Radio Shack. My Sampo was half the price of my Toshiba and most members of this site know that Apexes are vastly cheaper than Sonys.My question finally is: Are lower end dvd players better purchase than high end players?
I understand that everybody's experiences can be different so I would welcome any responses as I would like to know if my experinces are just abnormal. Thanks.

[banjazzer]

Maybe the makers of the high-end players think the buyers can afford to buy only pressed DVDs. It is hard to avoid the conclusion that the more you pay the less you can play. 8)

[MOVIEGEEK]

Sad but true,My first dvd player was a Toshiba and I paid $300(US)it plays
pressed dvd's and audio cd's.My Mintek player was 1/3 the price and plays
everything.Moral of the story:electronics are obsolete as soon as you walk
out the store.

[JGDragov]

Youre right banjazzer. I think very highly of Sony and Toshiba's products but I bought my mom a Sampo DVE-620 so she could hook it up to her tv through her vcr(her set is nice but older). With the macrovision disabled she can watch her dvds or svcds or make vhs copies for her sister who doesn't own a dvd player. These are options my Toshiba doesn't have. I know Sony is the better brand but if people ask me what dvd player to buy I'd steer them towards and Apex or a Sampo.

[skadzy]

In my opinion Sony products in general are overpriced and often inferior. Just because its a big name brand, it doesn't follow that their products are any better than cheaper products from lesser known manufacturers.