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gregoryfromcali · Posted: Sun Jun 05, 2005 6:01 pm Post subject: DVDs and regional codes

Does anyone know what the regional code is for DVDs in Taiwan?

I know in the mainland it doesn't matter because everything is pirated and the codes are removed.

But I would like to know if this is true in Taiwan.

For two reasons. I am considering bringing a DVD surround sound system plus stereo over to Taiwan that I bought in Europe because it is still relatively new. But I would like to know if it will play DVDs there as it only plays region 2 or uncoded DVDs.

By the way how much would one of these generic brand systems cost in Taipei? Back in the states I've seen them for less than a $100 these days.

Also I am curious because I want to buy a laptop. But if I buy a laptop with a DVD player in Taipei then more than likely it won't be able to play DVDs when I leave Taipei unles they have the same code as the States.

Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance.

Ki · Joined: 23 Jul 2004 Posts: 475

I can answer the DVD question. Usually you are given about four chances to change your regional settings on your laptop. Not sure if this is the same for regular DVD players. Not sure if it would be cheaper/better buying a laptop here either.

Xenophobe · Joined: 11 Nov 2003 Posts: 163

Taiwan is Area 3, and yes while you can buy pirated DVDs here Blockbuster and most rental places have Area 3. You are able to buy some movies that are listed as ALL, but they are usually older ones.

pcdavid04 · Joined: 19 May 2005 Posts: 19

am i wasting my time if i bring my DVD's from home (the US)? will i have a problem playing them in DVD players bought in taiwan?

Xenophobe · Joined: 11 Nov 2003 Posts: 163

Xenophobe · Joined: 11 Nov 2003 Posts: 163

Aristotle · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Posts: 1388 Location: Taiwan

The best advice is to have a Region Code Free Multi-Standard Player that allows you to view nearly any DVDs.
It is possible to get an embedded adapter chip-set installed that will allow you to view all region code DVD's and VCD's. Nearly every TV repair shop will do this for you, cost around 1000NT$. There are also numerous advertisements for this service in every major city on Taiwan (helps to read and speak Chinese).

balrog · Joined: 17 Jun 2003 Posts: 23

Buy a dual voltage DVD player eg Akira - It will be multi region. They are cheap here anyway - around 1500 NT

Sheep-Goats · Joined: 16 Apr 2004 Posts: 527

Don't bring a DVD player with you, it's too much crap and they're cheap here.

Your laptop will be able to play any region DVDs, but Windows Media Player won't do it for you. That message you get about permanent changes to regional settings is basically a lie and can be circumvented by downloading a media player that doesn't kowtow to what the MPAA prefers.

This is the best one of that type, and it's replaed Windows Media Player for video on my system (even though WMP isn't at all a bad program in most regards: http://www.videolan.org/