I'm glad this thread has helped out. I bought a 4200 when it was $55, and then a 4250 when it went down to the same price. I wasn't planning on using vcd's or copying dvd's, so I didn't mind those problems. I just needed a cheap vcr or dvd player, and got both. I've found the macorvision hack, and trhe region hack. I haven't tried them, but will after I move into my new apartment in a month or so. If they work, it'll be a big plus, and I'll let you know. Especially since I like anime and it might be cool to watch some Japanese imports. I always thought the region encoding was a scam, like most of the media industry, since it helps stiffle competition between retailers and producers in different regions.
Anyway, just a reminder, look for the apex threads too. Walmarts have been selling the Apex 20 inch flat screen TV for around $110 and less in some places. If you need a nice small tv to go with the dvd player on the cheap, with enough inputs for both the DVD/VCR, Gamecube, Playstation, and Xbox, itmight be the way to go. Especially when the equivalent competing tv''s cost for over $200 usually.