Security camera + DVR server suggestions?

[AirGibson]

It's hard finding sites dedicated to reviewing the various alternatives for DVR security systems. I'm looking for a total solution, including a dedicated DVR box as oppsed to just a card that I plop in an existing machine. If anyone here has recommendations on a particular system that has a lot of bang for the buck, or a site with good general info, I'm all ears. Some places I've already visited:

http://www.visiowave.com
http://www.video-insight.com/
http://www.aver.com/products/security.shtml

But like I say, I have no idea which ones are excellent, and which ones should be avoided. It's hard finding comprehensive, unbiased reviews anyhow.

 

[tcsenter]

You'd be surprised how similar most security DVRs under $500 ~ $600 look on the inside. Many brands use the same ODM/OEM. e.g.

Swann Communications has DVRs that are the same models sold under Lorex and Q-See brands. Lorex, Home Sentinel, Sentinel CCTV, and Sylvania are all Strategic Vista brands, and their security product lines are identical.

Other brands with low-cost security DVR:

Clover Electronics USA

Speco Technologies

Advanced Video Technology


I picked up this Sentinel 4CH DVR (w/o HDD) at Outpost.com a few months back for $170. It is identical to this Lorex 4CH DVR that sells for $300 (w/o HDD). This is probably the best deal going in 4CH security DVRs, but it has crappy remote/network viewing and control capabilities (RS232/RS485 only, no USB or RJ45, requires an external server/control board, limited to 2CH). This will be used strictly for home security, not an observation system, so better remote/network capability is not an issue for me.

You probably would want to look for full-featured remote/network viewing and control via USB2.0 or ethernet (or both) with built-in IP server. The AverMedia EB1104NET looks like a real decent DVR for the money (~$360.00), accept two HDDs up to 250GB each and sports USB2.0 for remote viewing (PC or network).

Then there is the high-end stuff (with a high-end price tag); Panasonic, Samsung, Philips, JVC, Dedicated Micros, among others.