Power DVD 5.0

Doing my quarterly check up for patches on some of the programs I've installed, I came across the fact that those cyberlink people have updated their program to version 5.

I was curious, for those who have 4.0 and upgraded to 5, if it was worth spending the meager $14.99 they want to keep it current?

So far, the program itself right now is great. I haven't had any reason to cuss it out or anything when it comes to watching movies on my computer or taking screen grabs for wallpaper or for reviews. So now I'm looking for any reason to justify the step on up.

Seems this time around, it might be worth it just to add DTS functionality to the program, as I was too cheap to get it the first time around (as my speakers then weren't the bitching set they are now). Then there's the color/image enhancement that's being touted...

So if you're played around with this newer version, feel free to add your thoughts.

6 hours after ordering the upgrade online, the buggers finally sent the download link and password.

I hate the new skin. It looks like crap, it has the same functionality of the older release, but has that awful xp vibe to it. Mainly, it's just too damn bright and obnoxious.

The program itself is the same. So right now, I'm considering that what I paid for was the DTS capability/add-on. Nothing is really different when you delve into the numerous option menus.

I'm still trying to figure out if the CL-Eagle Vision function is any good or not. It certainly makes the picture look brighter and more alive, but if I had the patience to tinker around with the gamma settings in the advanced menu option (who knows that maybe I could've replicated the same results myself). It's not bad, it certainly made Batman Beyond, Godzilla, and FOTR look more crisper and cleaner (brighter) on screen. As well, there isn't a performance hit on your cpu, so there were no moments of stuttering/slowdown.

If I knew yesterday what I now know today, I wouldn't have rushed out to do the upgrade. The added extras aren't worth the time or money to run out and buy. (Unless you're in the same boat as blipper and have an unplayable Cube disc) Considering though the cost of the upgrade was equal to the cost of the DTS/Tru-surround sound pack they used to offer...and the fact I can now play two subtitles at the same time, be treated to enhanced picture quality, and have faux surround sound for my mp3's...it's not entirely a rip off, but at the same time nothing special to write home about.