Region 2/Region 3 Anime DVD Discussion

[Carl]

What brand receiver is that as well?
Looks like a midrange Sony from the picture.

[Ollin]

What brand receiver is that as well?
A Yamaha HTR-730. Lots of pics will be posted in the blog in the next few days so check for updates.

[sys2021]

Well no one's posted in a while, so I thought I'd give a head's up.

I'm selling pretty much all of my collection on eBay unless other arrangements are made. I'll be doing this relatively soon. This includes a lot of R3s, a few R1s, and a few R2s. If anyone is interested do feel free to drop me a PM. I will try to post pics/reviews of the titles I haven't already ASAP. I am going to Japan in about 6 weeks and I need quick cash for my trip.

Oh I would just like to add on a random note, I was in a Best Buy the other day checking out the R1s for old time's sake, and came to realize how great the R2 and R3 market is. The R1s are catching up, or trying to, quality wise, but the package design/logo design in many cases is seriously lacking. Hooray for R2s/R3s!

[ayato kamina]

I just ordered the Bleach R2's and it is my first R2 purchase. I heard comparing it to R1 and fansubs that the quality is astounding. I can't wait.

[TK]

R2 quality is always outstanding. It'll set you back a bit since the series is gonna be a long one so good luck to you :thumbsup:

[ayato kamina]

i will be sure to post pictures of the first Soul Society DVd when I get it in.

[Carl]

R2 quality is always outstanding.
Usually, not always.

Bandai Ent and Geneon USA are better than KSS or Pony Canyon are.

[TK]

You just have to prove me wrong dont you <_<

:P

[ayato kamina]

I think the quality will be good, I have been hanging around on AOD and they said the quality was nice. Bleach is a densu show by the way and they own Geneon, so Im not worried about it.

[Ollin]

Yeah I have the Bleach R2's. Haven't watched it yet though. -_-;

[ayato kamina]

Yeah I have the Bleach R2's. Haven't watched it yet though. -_-;

Yeah I have seen your pics from your blog and on AOD. I see you got the first press volume 2. ^_^ I came in as a late Bleach collector so Im starting with the Soul Society arc so I can get the nice pre order discount and the First Presses. Man i want that damn box. :)

[Carl]

You just have to prove me wrong dont you <_<

:P
Damn straight. ^_^

[Carl]

The Collectors edition of the AIR movie is turning out to be inordinatly expensive with all the major R2 places not selling it.

Anyone know any places that have it for less than the US$94.90 that play-asia.com have it for?

[TK]

How expensive are you talking?
I would of thought Amazon.JP wouldnt of let you down with thier pre-order discount

[Carl]

How expensive are you talking?
I would of thought Amazon.JP wouldnt of let you down with thier pre-order discount
AJ won't sell it internationally because they've mistakenly listed it as a game and refuse to rectify it, despite numerous emails from numerous people. That's the problem you see. CD Japan also won't take preorders for it (despite having a page for it), it was solicited too late to be able to get it from Jungle, and Animaxis and Yes Asia don't have it.

It took quite a bit of searching to find anyone who could get me a copy.

I'm talking $95 ish.

[TK]

Thats a hefty investment for a single DVD :eww:

Hmmm, that is still unlike amazon not to change it, that will certainly upset a few R2 buyers. But if you like the series it looks like your going to have to be prepared to pay out this time round.....

[Takachsh]

I was wondering if anyone knew of any kinds of online stores that sell legimate R2 dvds? apart from -cd-japan- as well. Im really intrested in picking up a few title in R2 format....

[Lunay]

I was wondering if anyone knew of any kinds of online stores that sell legimate R2 dvds? apart from -cd-japan- as well. Im really intrested in picking up a few title in R2 format....

I'll start with some notable links so people can view them on the first page of the thread:

Where to buy R2 DVDs:

-A m a z o n Japan (http://www.******.co.jp) (use the product codes from CD Japan to search for listings, unless you know Japanese. Will ship to the US.)
-CD Japan (http://www.*******.co.jp). Will ship to the US.
-Yes Asia (http://www.*******.com). Will ship to the US. Free shipping on orders over $39.
-Anime Jungle (http://www.animejungle.com). Will ship to the US.
-AMO Tokyo (http://www.amotokyo.com). Will ship to the US.
-Yahoo Auctions Japan (http://auctions.yahoo.co.jp/0-category.html). Most sellers will not ship to the US. You need to use a deputy service to get items from here, unless you're fluent in Japanese and have a residence in Japan.

Where to buy R3 DVDs:

-Korean DVDs (http://www.koreandvds.com). Will ship to the US.
-Yes Asia (http://www.*******.com). Will ship to the US. Free shipping on orders over $39.
-DVD Heaven (http://www.dvdheaven.com). Will ship to the US.
-DVD Asian (http://www.dvdasian.com). Will ship to the US.

Deputy Services:

-Shopping Mall Japan (http://www.shoppingmalljapan.com/) (division of Anime Chaos)
-Rinkya (http://www.rinkya.com)
-Celga (http://www.celga.com)
-Akibado (http://www.akibado.com/)
-M World Service (http://www.m-world-service.com/)

It has come to my attention that AN has been "cracking down" on links to "competitors". Thus some of my links have been edited and CENSORED. While I object to this, it is AN's webspace, and I will respect that, but if anyone is curious about broken links/advice just PM me. I personally believe that the purchasing of R2s and R3s in no way directly affects the sales of AN. The R1 vs R2/R3 markets are entirely different.

Some are censored.

[sys2021]

Some are censored.
Yes they are. PM me if you ever need the link. While I am out of the market now, I still browse these forums for fun and look at things I would like to buy...hehe

[Otaku Playboy !]

Yes they are. PM me if you ever need the link. While I am out of the market now, I still browse these forums for fun and look at things I would like to buy...hehe

Hey, sys2021 it's good to see you're posting again.BTW your mailbox is full lol. :P

[GE999fan]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v352/OnvMD/R2DVD002.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v352/OnvMD/R2DVD004.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v352/OnvMD/R2DVD005.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v352/OnvMD/R2DVD006.jpg
I got mine in the mail today. No extras though.

[ayato kamina]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v352/OnvMD/R2DVD002.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v352/OnvMD/R2DVD004.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v352/OnvMD/R2DVD005.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v352/OnvMD/R2DVD006.jpg
I got mine in the mail today. No extras though.

How much was that?

[GE999fan]

How much was that?
$150 with shipping charges.

[sys2021]

$150 with shipping charges.
Where did you buy from? All the sets I've seen in Akihabara go for at least $180. I've been considering picking this up as a big fan of both R2s and the series, but I already have the R1 release... is it really worth it? I still have another week left here in Japan so I may/may not pick it up while I'm here.

[GE999fan]

I pre-ordered it from Amazon Japan. I think it's worth it if you really like the series. The booklet that comes with it is nice. And depending on what store you get it from theres a baseball bat shaped pen that comes with it.

[sys2021]

I might pick up the FLCL box soon, being a big fan, but I may have to just order it online... 2 slow-moving typhoons are hitting Japan right now, so I won't be able to go out much until the weekend.

For R3 lovers/Cowboy Bebop lovers... your prayers have been answered:

http://www.dvdheaven.com/dvd/dvd_detail.php?idx=13596

Found this just a minute ago doing some brief searching. I definitely am digging the covers. I'm definitely picking this up.

[guyverfanboy]

Is anyone gonna pick up the R3 Odex Fullmetal Alchemist dvds?

[SSR]

Apologies if this has already been posted, but...

Ghibli films getting proper UK release, finally. (http://forums.animeuknews.net/viewtopic.php?t=2309&sid=9352f75f8c901ac6176c2e42579b8f3f)


http://www.dvdheaven.com/dvd/dvd_detail.php?idx=13596

Found this just a minute ago doing some brief searching. I definitely am digging the covers. I'm definitely picking this up.

Damn, that's nice. However, would it be wrong to say that I really enjoyed the dubbed version of Bebop? Sacrilege, I know... ^_^

[TK]

Good to hear Ghibli is getting a decent UK release, since the title does say R2 i sposse it does include the UK aswell even if it was primarily JP R2 -_-;

[SSR]

Oops, I'd just assumed it meant R2 in general...

[MightyDustLoop]

Is anyone gonna pick up the R3 Odex Fullmetal Alchemist dvds?

I'm torn between those and the R1 myself. My plan is to wait it out until all 3 FMA's are out from Odex. Shipping at the moment equals the cost of the item anyway, so it'd be efficient to buy all at once. If those go OOP, or an R1 boxset is on the horizon by the time it happens, I'll do the R1. Funi have fixed many of the video problems from what I heard. Plus, the dub is really good and the packaging (minus the thin crappy tins) mirrors the R2s for the most part, so the R1s are a pretty sleek package.

[guyverfanboy]

I'm torn between those and the R1 myself. My plan is to wait it out until all 3 FMA's are out from Odex. Shipping at the moment equals the cost of the item anyway, so it'd be efficient to buy all at once. If those go OOP, or an R1 boxset is on the horizon by the time it happens, I'll do the R1. Funi have fixed many of the video problems from what I heard. Plus, the dub is really good and the packaging (minus the thin crappy tins) mirrors the R2s for the most part, so the R1s are a pretty sleek package.

I got my R3 set of FMA from Odex awhile ago. Pretty good, just a few typos in the subs is all.

[selina__andor]

I'm gonna finally buy the FMA R2 dvd box and the first dvd. I can't stand it anymore with the movie coming out, it's just calling for me to buy ^^; I'll have to get it off of Yahoo! Japan. Almost all the dvds I see that come with the box, though, have minorly damaged cases (a scratch or two).

Where can I find replacement cases that are identical to the Japanese cases of FMA? They look like they're very hard, clear plastic.

[TK]

I really dont see whats wrong with you buying the R1 version. Funi are doing a decent release i reckon and its certainly going to save you money in the future.
You can buy super jewel cases but i dont know if they're the same quality as the ones that the dvds come in.....

[Ollin]

Just google super jewel box. There's many retailers who sell it.

Even for me the R2 FMA DVD's are to expensive. I didn't like it enough to spend $800+ just to get the first presses at Yahoo JP auctions. I opted for the R3 Newtype FMA release. Super jewel cases and all. http://www.ollin.us/fma1-4.html

[selina__andor]

Ah.. I just like the box better and all. I'm not sure if I'm gonna get the full series at once, though. It's worth it to me, because FMA is my favorite series that I've seen so far and I enjoy watching it in Japanese ^_^

The Funi releases are good, but not as good to me

Thanks for the help with the jewel cases

[TK]

Woah Ollin, thats a big arse box for just 4 dvds :eek:
I take it the rest were in the box aswell and you just posted pics of the 1st 4 DVDs.
If not what the hell came with it :lol

[Ollin]

Woah Ollin, thats a big arse box for just 4 dvds :eek:
I take it the rest were in the box aswell and you just posted pics of the 1st 4 DVDs.
If not what the hell came with it :lol
No it's a 13 volume release like the R1's and R2's. I own the first 4 volumes and 2 more are shipping atm. It's hard to believe a R3 series is more expensive than the R1's but the Korean (Newtype) releases are on very close to R2 standards.

[guyverfanboy]

Well the R3 release of FMA from Odex (Singapore) is pretty cheap. :P

[selina__andor]

^-- There's a reason for that XD It didn't look all that great to me

[guyverfanboy]

^-- There's a reason for that XD It didn't look all that great to me

Well, Odex's release of FMA in boxset 1 is pretty much perfect except for a few typos here and there in the sub. ;)

[selina__andor]

Didn't Odex use fansub translations, though? That's what I read on a few reviews of it. Also, the packaging doesn't look the greatest when it's "guts" are revealed. Ah, it's cheap and pretty anime, though, I'd get it if I hadn't been oggling the other box for so long ^_^

[guyverfanboy]

Didn't Odex use fansub translations, though? That's what I read on a few reviews of it. Also, the packaging doesn't look the greatest when it's "guts" are revealed. Ah, it's cheap and pretty anime, though, I'd get it if I hadn't been oggling the other box for so long ^_^

Hmmm, I think that may be true. I have to compare my fansubs to their subs. :|

[tigeress02]

Seeing as these are Region 2 discs, I though I would post these here.

I just got the final two volumes of Sailor Stars and I took pictures of everything. The pictures can be found here (http://home.earthlink.net/~tigeress0218/version02/id5.html). ^_^

[kenshinbebop]

So, how do you watch Region 2 DVD's in the US? If a special player is needed where may I find it..and if so, would it work on US TV's.
Thanks.

[DazzleKitty]

Seeing as these are Region 2 discs, I though I would post these here.

I just got the final two volumes of Sailor Stars and I took pictures of everything. The pictures can be found here (http://home.earthlink.net/~tigeress0218/version02/id5.html). ^_^

Thanks for sharing! Awesome pictures. Japanese packaging is always so colorful and pretty. And the artwork on the covers is beautiful.

[sys2021]

I am sorry to say that I am in extreme need at the moment to get rid of my DVDs... both Region 1 (US/CA), Region 2 (Japan), and Region 3 (Korea) DVDs. I will be compiling a list in the near future... serious buyers only. I will be most likely parting with my Fullmetal Alchemist R2s and my Last Exile R2s as well, all first presses by the way. I expect a high return on both of those purchases.

[Bezerker]

So, how do you watch Region 2 DVD's in the US? If a special player is needed where may I find it..and if so, would it work on US TV's.
Thanks.

If you have a PS2. You can go to Best Buy and get the Pro Action Replay for a penny. It includes a program called DVD Region X that lets you play all region dvd's on your PS2.

[rainking187]

I don't know if anyone's interested but I'm trying to sell several R2 DVDs, including some Fullmetal Alchemist DVDs, PM me if interested.

[sys2021]

If you have a PS2. You can go to Best Buy and get the Pro Action Replay for a penny. It includes a program called DVD Region X that lets you play all region dvd's on your PS2.
There's also always the option of getting a region free prog for your comp (free) and buy an s-video cable if you want to hook it up to your TV (assuming that your TV has an s-video outlet). You can play games and stuff as well... worth the investment in my opinion. Since I have discs from several different regions, as well as fansubbed shows, emulated games, etc. an s-video cable was worth it for me, as I now can enjoy all these things on a much larger screen, with much better quality.

[lunarvesperia]

Um....I'm trying to find Fruits Basket dvd region 2,but i dont have the codec to translate the pages,so basically,i cant find anything.Could anyone help me?

[TK]

Fruit Basket DVD on AJP (http://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/search-handle-url/index=dvd-jp&field-keywords=%E3%83%95%E3%83%AB%E3%83%BC%E3% 83%84%E3%83%90%E3%82%B9%E3%82%B1%E3%83%8 3%E3%83%88/ref=xs_ap_l_xgl74/250-0360832-5051434)

Above are all the FB DVDs on Amazon Japan which say they will be shipping in 2-3 weeks i think maybe days im not sure my translator didnt do it properly.

But other than that your best bet would be using Yahoo Auctions but then you'd have to go through a deputy service which would cost you alot.
Since the R2 activity on this forum is pretty low id suggest you go over to the forums on Anime On DVD where there are alot of R2 collectors they'd be alot more helpful.
Heres the link ----> AoD R2 Thread (http://forums.animeondvd.com/postlist.php?Cat=&Board=region234)

[Chousho]

Hmm, I'm planning on buying an R2 DVD soon. However, it is strictly Japanese, with no English subtitles present (which I suppose is normal). I was wondering if there was a way I could watch the DVD with custom subtitles (.sup and .srt format)?

[SeannyB]

^^ AFAIK you'd have to play the DVD through a computer. DVDSubber (http://www.darkwet.net/dvdsubber/News.asp) can load custom subs.

[Dougtron]

I have a question about the R2 Sailor Moon discs. I've heard that the final volume for each series came wioth artboxes to hold the rest of the series but I haven't been able to find any mention of them on either Amazon or CDJapan. Also I heard that a box set was released that had all 3 movies and the 2 specials but I haven't been able to find that either. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[tigeress02]

As far as the artboxes go, those were first-press items. In other words, you don't get the option of DVD alone or DVD w/box. At this point, you'll have to ask whoever is selling the final volumes if they have the box with it.

As far as the movies boxset goes, I believe that was limited edition and was released some time ago.

[SonGokuQ]

I apologize for asking this question if it seems dumb, but I'm relatively new to discussing anime. What is the difference between R1, R2, and R3 anime?

[guyverfanboy]

I apologize for asking this question if it seems dumb, but I'm relatively new to discussing anime. What is the difference between R1, R2, and R3 anime?

DVD Region Coding (http://www.laserrot.com/info/lrinfo/dvdmap.html)

[SonGokuQ]

Thanks alot for that. Do the regions indicate where the DVD's were created and originally released or where they are available for purchase? Nevermind, I'll figure it out.

[spooncivicR]

Thanks alot for that. Do the regions indicate where the DVD's were created and originally released or where they are available for purchase? Nevermind, I'll figure it out.

Region codes are based on the market the disc is intended for sale in...

[The Million Dollar Prons]

I have a dumb question, but do Japanese DVDs have Japanese Subtitles?

[Chousho]

I have a dumb question, but do Japanese DVDs have Japanese Subtitles?

It depends on what you get.

For some of the dorama I have, yes, many of them do. The anime it may depend. I would think having subtitles may greatly enhance the time in translating them for.. uhh, translation.

However, even the bootlegs have (Engrish) subtitles, so that may not be saying much.

If you can, it may be better to find a Korean release, as these will often have Korean, Japanese and English subtitles. (or maybe I just get the ones that seem to have this).

[sys2021]

If you can, it may be better to find a Korean release, as these will often have Korean, Japanese and English subtitles. (or maybe I just get the ones that seem to have this).
Quoted for emphasis. I don't really buy DVDs anymore, but as you can tell from my earlier postings I am a big fan of R3s. If you want R2 quality with more subtitle options, go for R3. Be wary though for those non-fluent in Japanese or Korean, as English subtitles, while found on a lot of R3 releases, aren't always there for English-only speakers. Also, the legality of some R3 releases (i.e. some DVD Ani releases for instance) is up in the air last I checked.

[Chousho]

Quoted for emphasis. I don't really buy DVDs anymore, but as you can tell from my earlier postings I am a big fan of R3s. If you want R2 quality with more subtitle options, go for R3. Be wary though for those non-fluent in Japanese or Korean, as English subtitles, while found on a lot of R3 releases, aren't always there for English-only speakers. Also, the legality of some R3 releases (i.e. some DVD Ani releases for instance) is up in the air last I checked.

Unfortunately, I could not find any for the series he was looking for. I usually get mine off of yesasia (the R3), but those are drama for the most part. From the series I've picked up, the English subtitles aren't that bad. In fact, the special effects were worse than subtitles (Zatoichi, haha)

[sys2021]

Does anyone buy R2's anymore? Sheesh, this thread is dwindling compared to the olden days when I was around. What happened to Ollin and Tabris? I hardly see any posts in here of acquisitions.

[Ollin]

There really isn't much discussion on this thread so I tend not to post here anymore. Most of my acquisitions can be fournd here (http://ollin.us/pics.html).

[Jinpun]

Yeah I believe pretty much everyone is all at AoD as the R2/3 community there is much larger and more active.

And happy birthday sys...good to see you on...its been a while, same with you ollin (well at least since you've posted last).

[Chousho]

Also, the legality of some R3 releases (i.e. some DVD Ani releases for instance) is up in the air last I checked.

Yeah, I have a question on this. There is a site I like to buy from that is quite reputable. However, I was interested in buying some R3 DVDs (originally Korean releases) and saw mixed in with the R3 some Region Free from Hong Kong. Now, I doubt this site would sell pirated releases, so do most HK DVDs just usually come region free? I can understand the Chinese subtitle option, but it's the R0 that bothers me. Some are even stated as a "US Release". I've had no problems with the products from this site, so I don't see why a site that says yes to asia would carry pirated stuff in the bargain corner of the Korean video.

[Ollin]

This thread isn't getting much activity. I guess I'll post my R2 order from April.
Fate/Stay Night Vol. 2 (http://ollin.us/fatestaynight2.html)
SHUFFLE episode 7 LE (http://ollin.us/shuffle7.html)
Shakugan no Shana 1-4 (http://ollin.us/shakugannoshana1.html)
Bleach Vol. 15 (http://ollin.us/bleach15.html)
Suzuka Vol. 7 (http://ollin.us/suzuka7.html)
D.C.S.S. Vol 7 (http://ollin.us/d.c.s.s.7.html)
Amaenaideyo! Katsu! Vol. 3 (http://ollin.us/amaenaideyokatsu3.html)
Naruto Movie 2 (http://ollin.us/narutomovie2.html)

[Ollin]

I'll try to keep this thread alive.
FMP The Second Raid Tessa OVA LE (http://www.ollin.us/fmpova.htm)
Suzuka Vol. 8 (http://www.ollin.us/suzuka8.htm)
Amaendaideyo Katsu Vol. 4 (http://www.ollin.us/amaenaideyokatsu4.htm)
SHUFFLE! episode 8 LE (http://www.ollin.us/shuffle8.htm)
Shakugan no Shana Vol. 5 (http://www.ollin.us/shakugannoshana5.htm) with bonus DVD
Fate/Stay Night Vol. 3 (http://www.ollin.us/fatestaynight3.htm)

I'll be posting pics of the collection in the next few days. :)

[Jeikobu]

Ok, I've all but decided to go for R2 Naruto DVDs instead of Viz's R1 boxes. Why? I'm a big purist and I really dislike Viz. It may sound stupid but I want the original opening and ending credits. It's an eyesore to me to see them changed, especially with certain anime. And in cases like Inuyasha, it annoys me how in the ending credits they only list the dubcast, and no Japanese. If Viz were smart they'd do it like Funi and give Japanese text if you watch it in Japanese, and English for English. But that's not how it is. This also goes for the opening title screen. And later on in Naruto, the text can do some effects, like fading out or whatever. I'm worried Viz will ruin this. With Inuyasha, when I watched the fansubs, I was shocked to see that behind the Japanese text there's movement (looks like a shadow of sorts as I recall), but Viz screwed it up because they just had to change it to English. So now the background pic is frozen. It also concerns me that the logo on the first Naruto box has the katakana removed from underneath the English logo. Give me a break, it's tiny and the main part is already English. Why remove it? So I'm concerned that they'll remove it in show too. And finally, I'm concerned that they won't be able to get all of the openings and endings, or at least the different versions of them. With so many openings and endings, I'm concerned if they'll be able to get the rights to them all. In fact, I heard a person say that she got a Naruto Uncut Box preview disc as a subscriber to Shounen Jump, and it still had their dub opening, "Rise", and their dub ending (whatever it's called, if it even has a name). Even if they get all of the openings and endings, could they really get the variations? Anyone who's watched enough Naruto knows that they update their openings and endings fairly often. And it seems like a lot of Japanese anime companies are stingy enough, so I'd be shocked if they got everything. And with Viz, I doubt they even care to. I was shocked to find out recently that Inuyasha's second ending, "Fukai Mori", had another version of it that Viz never got (the part in the middle that's not colorized is changed). So I have very little faith in them.
So, long story short, I've pretty much decided it would be worth paying more money to get the R2s. The problems are, R2s are expensive enough, but I also need a player, preferrably all region. I'm not sure yet if I want to go for a normal player, a player I can put in the computer, a portable one, or something else. But I'm pretty sure I want to start buying the R2 DVDs. So my question is, where is the best place to find them? CD Japan is the best I've seen so far. I've looked on eBay but all I found were bootlegs. And I don't know where else to look really. I has to be a place I can get around on, and that will ship to the US. If you can't post the places here, please PM them to me.

[Ollin]

Yeah more stuff from June
Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuutsu Episode 00 LE (http://www.ollin.us/suzumiya00.htm)
Kyou no Go Ni Vol. 2 (http://www.ollin.us/kyonogononi2.htm)
Suzuka Vol. 9 (http://www.ollin.us/suzuka9.htm)
SHUFFLE! episode 9 LE (http://www.ollin.us/shuffle9.htm)
Shakugan no Shana Vol. 6 (http://www.ollin.us/shakugannoshana6.htm)
Gin-iro no kami no Agito RE (http://www.ollin.us/gin.htm)
Amaenaideyo Katsu! Vol. 5 (http://www.ollin.us/amaenaideyokatsu5.htm)
Fate/Stay Night Vol. 4 (http://www.ollin.us/fatestaynight4.htm)

Older Stuff I scanned
Ikkitousen Vol. 1 (http://www.ollin.us/ikkitousen1.htm)
Ikkitousen Vol. 2 (http://www.ollin.us/ikkitousen2.htm)
Ikkitousen Vol. 3 (http://www.ollin.us/ikkitousen3.htm)
Ikkitousen Vol. 4 (http://www.ollin.us/ikkitousen4.htm)
Ikkitousen Vol. 5 (http://www.ollin.us/ikkitousen5.htm)
Ikkitousen Vol. 6 (http://www.ollin.us/ikkitousen6.htm)
Ikkitousen Vol. 7 (http://www.ollin.us/ikkitousen7.htm)

Akane Maniax Vol. 1 (http://www.ollin.us/akanemaniax1.htm)
Akane Maniax Vol. 2 (http://www.ollin.us/akanemaniax2.htm)
Akane Maniax Vol. 3 (http://www.ollin.us/akanemaniax3.htm)

[Ed_Elric]

I'm looking for Hikaru no Go reg-2 box-set from Japan, with english subs. Is there anything like it?

[Banchan]

I'm looking for Hikaru no Go reg-2 box-set from Japan, with english subs. Is there anything like it?
No. I don't believe there is even a boxset for HnG. Always assume a Japanese R2 does NOT have subtitles. CDJapan is pretty good about listing whether or not a DVD has english subtitles or not.

[Jeikobu]

Are the Guyver OVAs on Japanese DVD? I've searched several big places (even Amazon Japan) are can't find any signs of their existence, only the new TV series. I don't want the R1s, since the opening (and possibly ending) visuals are changed for every episode, except for the last one when you watch it in the extras (the main one is the cut version, but they gave the uncut in the extras, and left the opening alone in it (and ending)).

[Area88]

The Guyver OVA's are on R2 dvd. They released them in 2 boxsets of 6 episodes each.

I think they are out of print now but you might be able to find them.

[bgx90]

I currently own the R1 "Tenchi Muyo!" Ultimate box set, and I'm thinking about getting the Japanese R2 DVD's of OVA's 1 & 2, since I plan on buying the R2 releases of OVA 3 for the 5.1 soundtracks. I read a review at animeondvd.com of one of the R2 discs (the only one they have reviewed) that said the picture is "not glorious, but it's just about exactly the same as the region 1 Ultimate box set". I'm not sure if that means the R1 picture is slightly better due to the THX enhancement or if it means that the picture isn't "glorious" because the show is kind of old. Can someone who comment on how the picture quality of the Japanese R2 DVD's of "Tenchi Muyo!" OVA's 1 & 2 compare with the THX certified R1 Ultimate Edition? Also, does anyone know how many R2 discs make up OVA's 1 & 2 and how many episodes are on each of the R2 discs?

[SilverStar]

The OVA's have been released three times in Japan.

First was the original Tenchi Muyo! Ryo-Oh-Ki DVD-Box (http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=PIBA-1100) that contained eps 1-13, Mishoshi SP, & Sound File. It has been out of print for a number of years. It was also released on individual discs that are also out of print.

Second was the TENCHI MUYO! 10th Anniversary DVD-BOX (http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=PIBA-1379). That one was $875 US and contained OVAs 1 & 2, TV 1, TV 2, all 3 movies and a bonus disc. It contained the same discs from the original release and is out of print.

The third was a re-release that was part of the Rondo Robe Selection (http://www.geneon-ent.co.jp/rondorobe/news/campaign/selection/index.html) campaign. The discs were re-authored and only have the Japanese DD 2.0 and DD 5.1 tracks. Both the Japanese DTS 5.1 and English 2.0 tracks were dropped.

The Rondo Robe Selection is the only version that I own so I can't make any comparisons to the other R2s or R1. It is looks nice and clean. Typical good quality that one would expect from a R2.

Here is the run down of the episode layout for each of the discs with links to CD Japan for reference.

TENCHI MUYO! RYO OH KI Ten no maki: RONDO ROBE SELECTION (http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=GNBA-5001)

Contains episodes 1 thru 3.
第１話「魎呼復活」 [Ryoko Resurrected]
第２話「阿重霞が出た！」 [Here Comes Ayeka!]
第３話「こんにちは！魎皇鬼ちゃん」 [Hello Ryo-Ohki!]

TENCHI MUYO! RYO OH KI Chi no maki: RONDO ROBE SELECTION (http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=GNBA-5002)

Contains episodes 4 thru 6.
第４話「星降る里に美星降る」 [Mihoshi Falls to the Land of Stars]
第５話「神我人襲来！」 [Kagato Attacks!]
第６話「天地必要」 [We Need Tenchi!]

TENCHI MUYO! RYO OH KI Mu no maki: RONDO ROBE SELECTION (http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=GNBA-5003)

Contains episodes 7 thru 9.
第７話「お祭り前日の夜！」 [The Night Before The Carnival]
第８話「こんにちは赤ちゃん」 [Hello! Baby]
第９話「砂沙美と津名魅」 [Sasami & Tsunami]

TENCHI MUYO! RYO OH KI Yoh no maki: RONDO ROBE SELECTION (http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=GNBA-5004)

Contains episodes 10 thru 12.
第１０話「天地が好き」 [I Love Tenchi]
第１１話「女神降臨」 [The Advent Of Goddess]
第１２話「零・魎呼」 [Zero Ryoko]

TENCHI MUYO! RYO OH KI no maki: RONDO ROBE SELECTION (http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=GNBA-5005)

Contains episodes 13.
第１３話「皇来たりなば　幸遠からじ」 [Here Comes Jurai]
「番外編」 Mishoshi SP
「SOUND FILE

[bgx90]

Thanks for the detailed response, SilverStar. I wanted to get the currently available R2 discs because I read on some sites that they had DTS Japanese tracks on them; but I might still get them since, if they don't have a lot of bonus features, they are sure to be less compressed than the R1 Ultimate Edition, which still looks great. Do the discs you have have a lot of extras, or is disc space devoted mostly to the episodes? Also, are they packaged in CD jewel cases or standard DVD cases?

[SilverStar]

Thanks for the detailed response, SilverStar. I wanted to get the currently available R2 discs because I read on some sites that they had DTS Japanese tracks on them; but I might still get them since, if they don't have a lot of bonus features, they are sure to be less compressed than the R1 Ultimate Edition, which still looks great. Do the discs you have have a lot of extras, or is disc space devoted mostly to the episodes? Also, are they packaged in CD jewel cases or standard DVD cases?

They are just a bare bones release devoted purely to the episodes. The discs auto play with a copyright warning, Geneon Logo and a 32 second DD clip then go straight to the episodes like 99% of all R2s do. There is a single page menu that appears after all the episodes play. The menus list the episodes, chapter selections and the two audio settings. No trailers or other extras. Over all a very clean release.

Packaging is a standard Amaray DVD Case.

I doubt that the video quality will completely satisfy you. …The next video formats will present a greater chance for a perfect release but that’s still looking like another year or two away with the added expense of upgrading your system. I wish that I could give you more info on the video quality. I would recommend buying the first disc to see if it meets your expectations and offers any improvements over what you have now.

[bgx90]

Thanks, again, SilverStar. I guess I'll just get the 3rd OVA for now. I'm pretty happy with the picture quality of the R1 Ultimate edition, but I'm always looking for the best product I can get. Hopefully, the current format war will end soon so we'll be able to buy our old favorites with great picture quality without worrying about whether or not we bought the "correct" format.

[Tinkerdan]

I really need some help here and would really appreciate any you could give. Does anyone know where to get a region 2 copy of Gantz vol 2? Ive searched and searched but nowhere seems to have vol2 in Region 2! Please help

[Ollin]

http://www.amazon.co.jp/gp/product/B0002HV2O4/sr=1-7/qid=1157928508/ref=sr_1_7/250-0315576-1993057?ie=UTF8&s=dvd
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=DA-347
http://www.hmv.co.jp/product/detail.asp?sku=1845591

[musashi1600]

Quick question:

Do the R2 Aria and Marimite DVDs come with English subtitles? I'm running out of patience waiting for an American distributor to pick up those titles, and I figure it's not longer a likely prospect by now.

[Banchan]

Quick question:

Do the R2 Aria and Marimite DVDs come with English subtitles? I'm running out of patience waiting for an American distributor to pick up those titles, and I figure it's not longer a likely prospect by now.

No, they do not have English subtitles.

[Shawaazu]

Always assume that R2 anime do not have subtitles (though some anime movies do have subtitles).

[musashi1600]

No, they do not have English subtitles.
Always assume that R2 anime do not have subtitles (though some anime movies do have subtitles).
Crud. I guess I'm out of options (short of downloading them.) XP

[Lemina]

Revived and stuck thread. For discussion of anime releases for other regions outside the US on DVD.

[Daishikaze]

Not really a question about an anime DVD, this is about a R3 Toku DVD. The Kamen Rider Black/RX dvds from Malaysia are supposed to be official, with a government seal of approval. Can anyone tell me if the English subtitles on those are good? or are they lousy like HK DVD subs?

[Mr. sickVisionz]

What upcoming releases is everyone thinking of picking up? I plan on finishing off the final two episodes of Katanagatari on BD (I currently have #s 4,7 and 10) and grabbing BD volumes #3-end of Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt.

[sys2021]

Man someone ripped some of my reviews to another site.... not cool.

Any collectors interested in FMA (fp), Last Exile (fp), Tenchi Anniversary megabox R2s? I think I have some random R3s too like Escaflowne. I am liquidating my collection (no more space, retiring from collecting), so I thought I'd take offers from collectors/fans before putting them up on an auction site. Sorry if this is a shameless plug- if I am violating rules, mods feel free to PM me and I will edit this out.

Oh and that 10th anniversary Tenchi set, I own one, and it's glorious. :D

Oh also for ppl who are wary of R2/R3 dvds because of subtitles, you can always find softsubs (fan subbed). Plus you'd be supporting the animation studios directly with your purchase.

edit again: Anyone know of any coupons/deals going on? Cause the ones I had in the OP were from 04... lol

[tigeress02]

^That post was made 7 years ago, so it's probably long been purchased (and now OOP). Actually, most of these posts are pretty old and some of the posters don't come around here anymore. :P

I'm waiting for a Blu-ray release of Bebop myself. We're getting the movie on BD in June in the US, so here's hoping the TV series is in the cards at some point.

[Sora N]

I want to order the R2 DVD’s for The Story of Saiunkoku season 2 from CD Japan; however, I am not sure where to find a DVD player that will play R2 DVD’s.

[Mr. sickVisionz]

I want to order the R2 DVD’s for The Story of Saiunkoku season 2 from CD Japan; however, I am not sure where to find a DVD player that will play R2 DVD’s.

I don't know your setup, but if you have a pc or laptop plugged up to your TV you can change the region on it.

[Sora N]

^No, I don't. I don't even have an HDTV yet.

[tigeress02]

You could also hack a US DVD player to be region free. I did that to a cheapo player I got from Walmart a number of years back so I could play my Sailor Moon Sailor Stars R2s. All it required was pushing a few buttons on the remote and it was ready to go. Just search Google for DVD player hacks.

[sys2021]

I want to order the R2 DVD’s for The Story of Saiunkoku season 2 from CD Japan; however, I am not sure where to find a DVD player that will play R2 DVD’s.

There are plenty of places that sell region-free players. I personally like YesAsia, they've got free shipping, or you can try Amazon too.

I have a Japanese PS2 which I used to watch R2s on my TV... and also using region-free programs on my computer. If you wanna watch them on your computer (or TV via comp) I recommend VLC (great media player overall). There are more options for PCs than Macs for unlocking the region-switch limit.

[Sora N]

I have another question.

When importing DVD’s from another county (Japan R2 DVD’s) into the U.S. do you have to pay duty or a fee at customs? Or is there a certain price that you have to reach before you have to? I have never bought anything from another county online, so I am not sure what to expect if I order from CD Japan.

[Absinth Frank]

To this date I imported a body pillow cover (35$) and a Yoko Kanno compilation CD (45$) from Japan and both times there was no duty fee. It was through ebay.ca with regular shipping. I don't know if there is a minimum for an item to get import fee or if they just pick things at random like when they open your package for inspection.

Watch out who you buy your DVDs from cuz this one time I ordered a Legend of Dragoon soundtrack and the guy never sent it plus he isn't on ebay anymore. Paypal game me my money back of course but it still sucks.

[tigeress02]

I didn't pay any special fees to import those Sailor Stars DVDs from Japan (I used CDJapan). Of course, that was in 2005, so things could be different now.

[doraemon]

I order from yesaisa now and again and have never been hit with custom charges,but i only order about 2-3 dvds at a time.

[Levon]

I think there's a certain amount you have to spend to be charged a duty fee. I'd buy small items for around $60 and not have to pay a duty fee but I spend around $200 or more and then I'll get a letter in the mail to pay a fee.

[tigeress02]

Looks like Japan is getting Escaflowne (remastered) on BD in Feb (link (http://www.fandompost.com/forums/showthread.php?5470-Escaflowne-%28TV%29)). Man, if this ends up having subs, I'm going to have a hard time passing it up, since this show is still in my top 10 after all these years. No doubt that it's going to be pricey.

[DazzleKitty]

How many Japanese DVDs have English subs? Quite a few these days?

[tigeress02]

^Still not that many, if any at all. But I've noticed that if something was previously released in the US, sometimes the sub and/or the english dub from that will be put on the Japanese bluray release. For example

Rurouni Kenshin (http://www.fandompost.com/forums/showthread.php?828-Rurouni-Kenshin-OVAs-Film-EngSub-EngDub) OVAs and Movie
Lucky Star (http://www.fandompost.com/forums/showthread.php?830-Lucky-%E2%98%86-Star-EngSub-EngDub)
5 Centimeters Per Second / Voices of a Distant Star (http://www.fandompost.com/forums/showthread.php?5212-5-Centimeters-Per-Second-Voices-of-a-Distant-Star-EngSub-EngDub)
The Big O (http://www.fandompost.com/forums/showthread.php?2750-The-Big-O-EngSub-EngDub)
Howl's Moving Castle (http://www.fandompost.com/forums/showthread.php?5051-Howl-s-Moving-Castle-EngSub-EngDub) (and other Ghibli films)
RahXephon (http://www.fandompost.com/forums/showthread.php?4193-Raxhephon-BD-Box-Eng-Dub-Eng-Sub)

Though it's not always the case. These were released in the US, but don't include the English sub or dub on the Japanese BDs.

Please Teacher! / Please Twins! (http://www.fandompost.com/forums/showthread.php?5280-Please-Teacher!-Please-Twins!)
Gankutsuou (http://www.fandompost.com/forums/showthread.php?1157-Gankutsuou)
Noein (http://www.fandompost.com/forums/showthread.php?1156-Noein)
Paranoia Agent (http://www.fandompost.com/forums/showthread.php?1761-Paranoia-Agent)
Ouran High School Host Club (http://www.fandompost.com/forums/showthread.php?1942-Ouran-High-School-Host-Club)

And of course, they're expensive as hell. Ouran is ~$340. RahXephon is ~$545. Lucky Star is ~$420. Note that those prices are without discounts, which is why I'd only consider importing series that are absolute favorites and at least subbed. Now, if they did Sailor Moon that way...

[kevinshov]

I just like to use a second DVD player for region 2.


Kevin (http://www.whatispocky.com)