Are there any affordable sources? Major pitfalls that might turn me away? I don't know much of anything about region C but obviously if region free is similar price, may as well have the option. Not an audiophile, or own a 3D TV either. Though I haven't tested its quality in motion, my Sanyo accepts 576p50, 720p50, 1080i50, and 1080p50, assuming the XRGB mini options are labeled correct. After all I can't waltz across the pond to hunt for Goodwill or Value Village level units, lol.
I could find at least 2 here in Australia that are region free, and under $100. I'm sure there will be equivalent in the US. Look at the cheapest alternative as usually they leave the engineer menu open.