I think Pioneer is the way to go even if it isn't the Elite series. The DV-525 is well rated and has I think has a better picture than the Sony. The price is right at $250 or less!
DVD Player of choice for $200-300 range.
I'm not into Home Theater per say. Most of my money has been going into upgrading my 2-channel system. But I would like to a least start out by getting a good DVD player. This would be for watching movies only and not hooked into my audio system. My wife bought me The "Buena Vista Social Club" on DVD. I think she's trying to give me a hint. Any thoughts?