High-speed, five-step smooth-motion scan lets you scan forward or reverse in five speeds, up to 100 times faster than the normal playback rate. Or use frame advance to move ahead just one frame at a time for a detailed look at the program. Enhanced video features include cinema mode, which improves the visibility of details in dark scenes and gives a more cinema-like luminance and color to the picture.

With twin-laser pickup, the Panasonic DVD-RP56 will also play your audio CD discs, including home-recorded CD-R and CD-RW discs with MP3 files. For an enhanced home-theater experience, use the digital-optical output to connect the DVD player to a Dolby Digital capable receiver. With DTS signals channeled through the digital output as well, the DVD-RP56 will playback both majoro formats of 5.1-channel audio for complete digital surround sound. Or if you have just two speakers, the V.S.S. mode will simulate five-channel surround sound. Enjoy other audio features like dialogue enhancer, which makes the dialogue more audible in certain scenes, and Bass Plus for an enhanced bass kick from your subwoofer.

Convenient features include disc stabilizer, which increases playability while reducing the chances of warping discs, chapter preview, onscreen menu icons, and a remote control with large cursor for simple menu navigation. A jog/shuttle dial is also provided on the front of the player, as are other controls for added access to DVD function