diff --git a/DOCS/tech/svn-howto.txt b/DOCS/tech/svn-howto.txt
index 4dd0f03595..d4bbc37694 100644
--- a/DOCS/tech/svn-howto.txt
+++ b/DOCS/tech/svn-howto.txt
@@ -34,6 +34,12 @@ MPlayer project you are expected to be familiar with these rules.
 I. BASICS:
 ==========
 
+0. Get Subversion:
+
+  The MPlayer project server runs Subversion 1.2.3. For optimal compatibility
+  you should use version 1.2.3 or later.
+
+
 1. Checking out the source tree:
 
     svn checkout svn://svn.mplayerhq.hu/mplayer/trunk/ <target>