Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Technical Questions Which gives better picture...720p or 1080i?

Basically you have it figured out. The set shows alternating 540P signals which ends up being 1080i.

If you are looking for a DVD player, the Oppo's are great and should have both HDMI and component output. I have a Panasonic S-77 which uses a similar Faroujda chip as the Oppo-971. Oops.... I see the Oppo 981 does not have component outputs and according to the CNET review is really targeted to the videophile with 1080P.

I'd say then go for the 971 and run component cables to your set for DVD and set it to 1080i.

My 1080P set handles 1080i input better than 720P as the conversion is easier. I think you will find the same.

good luck.