DVD recorders, need advice!

[computerABUSER]

Hello Group,
I want to get a DVD recorder for my TV (first one) however, I really can't spend to much so I will be getting one with the basic functions.

After checking them out at stores like CompUSA and Best Buy I really don't see much difference between a $100.oo unit and a $200.oo unit or am I missing something there?

I saw what seemed to be a nice one from BB made by "Lite-On" for only $119.oo so I'm thinking about that one...any advice from you guys/gals is appreciated!

Thanks,
CA

 

[eelw]

The main thing you will need to worry about with a set top DVD recorder is compatibility with other DVD players. Also the user interface from model to model. Provided there isn't any restocking fee at your location, I would buy the most inexpensive one and give it a try for a few days. See if you're happy with the usability and image quality. If not, try the next model up.

As for myself, I'm partial to Philips DVD recorders. Have had my DVR985 for almost 6 years now. Not a single complain with it. This past Christmas, picked up another Philips with built in 120GB HD for my parents.

Provided you are only expecting a VCR replacement and not a full blown DVR, you should be fine with the low end models on the market.

 

[computerABUSER]

Provided you are only expecting a VCR replacement and not a full blown DVR, you should be fine with the low end models on the market.

Hi and thanks for the reply. Btw, what do you mean by "...and not a full blown DVR"

 

[eelw]

After reading various different discussion boards dedicated to set top DVD recorders, many people for some reason assume that a DVD recorder will have an on screen guide to select and schedule TV shows. But they get disappointed that all you get is a manual timer schedule found in VCRs.

 

[StormRider]

I like the ones that also support DVD-RAM because you can watch a pre-recorded show while another one is recording. I'm not sure if the DVD+RW and DVD-RW can do this...

 

[1Cheap2Crazy]

I bought a cheapie at wally world, of all places. I try my best to avoid that store but they had the cheapest one at the time. I bought an iLo(aka Lite-On) 18 months ago. I use it everyday and it only missed recording a show a few times I think it's down to $99, but I would spend the extra money on a warrenty. I just think the spinning up and down on the drive/gears will make it break sonner than expected. I think the picture looks fine, but I hate the fact that you have 3 recordings, Once, Weekly, and Daily. Daily means just that, Daily, not M-F. You also have to wait for the recording to finish before viewing any part of it. Checkout videohelp forum for more info.