ive had a mintek portable dvd player for a long time now and have yet to see a problem

Yup. Looks to me like discount cheap lasts forever with these things. I wouldn't hesitate to jump on a low-quality (or low-reputation) brand. Both of my cheapies work great, and have forever. On top of that, Panasonic is a big name in optical drives.

how clear is u guys screens?

I can take a digital pic of the display with a movie and post it tonight if you want. Maybe a side-by-side comparing it to my laptop?

naw its no big deal im going this weeking to look at them and try some out.