|
The aim of this article is to provide basic advice on which Digital Recorder is best for you. If your totally unsure what make or model is most suitable then I suggest reading through the whole document. However for those who know roughly what you want the article is structured in a FAQ format so you can quickly get the answers you are after. Those who just want a ready made shortlist should consult the current 'Top 5' charts for DVD Recorders and HDD/DVDR combi Recorders. This article was written in July 2005, next update will be made September 2005.
BASICS:
Which DVDR Format? Plus, Minus or RAM?
What is VR Mode? Understanding DVD Recorder file formats
What are these new formats: BluRay and HD-DVD? Should I delay buying until they are available?
What is the benefit of a Hard Disk Drive inside a DVD recorder?
I have Sky+ so do I still need a DVD recorder with a HDD?
Should I look for a multi format machine?
How many hours/minutes can I record onto each DVDR?
USEAGE:
What connections should I look for on a DVD recorder?
I want to edit my recordings - what is the best DVD recorder for this?
Can I record in widescreen (16:9)?
Can I record Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound?
I want to archive from VHS - what is the best DVDR for this?
Are there any DVD recorders that can control my Sky/Freeview/Cable Digibox?
FEATURES:
Are there any DVD recorders with a built in freeview (DVB) tuner?
What DVD recorders offer the best recording quality?
What DVD recorders offer the best DVD playback?
What DVD recorders offer an EPG?
What DVD recorders will display JPEG picture files?
What DVD recorders will play MP3 audio files?
What DVD recorders will play WMA audio files?
What DVD recorders will play DVD-AUDIO or SACD discs?
What DVD recorders will play XVID, WMV, DIVX, MPEG4 (etc) video files?
CONCLUSION:
What are the top 5 DVD recorders?
What are the top 5 DVD recorders with Hard Disk Drives?
When was my DVD Recorder released?
I have an issued not covered by any of the above. Where can I get further help?
INTRODUCTION TO DIGITAL RECORDERS. WHAT TYPE OF RECORDER TO CHOOSE?
As VHS recording slowly but surely slips into history, everyone is after a "VCR replacement". If your reading this article odds are that you fall into this category. Many assume that DVD recording is the logical replacement - after all DVD-Video replaced pre-recorded VHS - however a DVD recorder may not be the best option for you. Hard Disc Drive (HDD) recording is actually fast becoming the dominating recording medium of choice and is an option you should consider carefully before settling on a DVD recorder.
If you have Sky then you should consider 'upgrading' to Sky+. This excellent system allows you to record upto 2 Sky channels at once with the ability to 'timeslip', i.e play a programme on the HDD (including one still recording) even when the unit is recording. In addition the user interface - that of the Sky Electronic Programme Guide (EPG) - is easy to use and already familiar to any Sky Digital user. Recordings are identical in quality to the original as the system simply records the digital broadcast directly to the HDD. Indeed Sky+ even improves the recorded picture by removing the dreaded 'Red Dot' and other interactive features used by some channels. Available with 40GB or 160GB HDD Sky+ offers approximately 20 or 80 hours of recording time respectively. The only real downside of Sky+ is that it requires a monthly subscription (unless you subscribe to multiple premium channels).
There are Sky+ equivalent HDD solutions for Freeview users - thankfully without the subscription charge. Models such as the Pace Twin, Humax PVR8000T, Thompson DHD4000, Fusion FVRT100 and Panasonic TUCTH100 all offer lossless recording for Freeview. Some models offer twin tuners (watch one channel, record another), most have Electronic Programme Guides to make Timer recording very easy and most offer 'lossless' recording (recording the digital broadcast). The HDD size of these models tends to vary between 20GB (approx. 10 hours) upto 80GB (40 hours). All models tend to be the £150-£250 price bracket. AV Forums is a great place for assistance/advice on the current pick of the crop.
Although there are currently no Sky+ type options for NTL and Telewest customers they are due within the coming months. Telewest have announced the Explorer 8300DVB - a Personal Video Recorder that will allow you to record three channels simultaneously and will offer the same ease of use as Sky+ (i.e. EPG recording). Although NTL haven't announced their plans it seems likely that they will follow with the same model in the not-to-distant future. As with Sky+ and Freeview alternatives the machine will be a true Personnel Video Recorder offering lossless recording.
If such PVRs do not suit you or if you are interested in archiving (be it from a HDD recorder or another source such as VHS, Laserdisc, camcorder) then you should consider a DVD recorder. And, unlike for a HDD recorder, it is here you need to be careful as the market is a minefield. I strongly urge you to read the rest of this document deciding what features you want now or are likely to want in the near future prior to making your choice.
WHICH DVDR FORMAT? PLUS OR MINUS OR RAM?
It is unfortunate that there are currently SEVEN DVDR formats:
Type Of DVD Recordable Media |
 | DVD-RAM
DVD-RAM is an official DVD format launched in 1997/8. Whilst DVD-RAM has little PC usage these days it is currently the dominating format worldwide in set-top DVD recorders. DVD-RAM offers upto 100,000 re-writes** and can either be enclosed in a caddy or come 'bare' (like a normal DVD). DVD-RAM offers full Windows XP/MAC OS X compatibility as standard - the only format to do so. However the disadvantage is physical compatibility: virtually all DVD players and many DVD-ROMs cannot play the format - although this is slowly changing.
If you "watch and wipe" and aren't concerned about compatibility then DVD-RAM's durability and lifespan makes it the ideal choice. It is also good for long term archiving - it is the only format that has a proven track record and it's significantly different structure from the other types of DVDR media reduces the risk of long term failure associated with such discs. The option of a caddy on some DVD-RAM media makes it good for pet owners and parents of young children as they are very robust. |
 | DVD-R
DVD-R is an official DVD format. It is a write-once disc (a better term might be 'fill once' - you can keep adding to the disc until it is full or finalized) that has near universal compatibility with existing DVD players and DVD-ROM drives. It offers 4.7GB of data/video per disc and high quality media has an estimated lifespan of 100 years**. If you want to make recordings that play on other DVD players you should insist on a DVD recorder supporting DVD-R recording - not a hard task as, with the exception of the cheapest DVD recorders and those made by Philips, virtually all machines support it. It is effectively the defacto DVDR format.
|
| DVD-R DL
DVD-R DL is a brand new format that offers the same advantages as DVD-R but with an improved capacity of 8.5GB. Once again it is write-once format that is expected to offer high compatibility with existing DVD players and DVD-ROM drives. DVD-R DL media is now shipping and the first discs are now available. Currently the only set-top DVD recorders to support this format are the new Pioneer models (such as the DVR-530). |
 | DVD-RW
DVD-RW is a re-writeable version of DVD-R and is also an approved DVD format offering 4.7GB of storage. Like a DVD-R it can be added to until full or finalized but, as a re-writeable disc, can be formatted/erased and refilled upto 1000 times. A DVD-RW disc is compatible with most, but not all, DVD players* and DVD-ROM drives.
If you want to make compatible recordings on re-writeable discs then you should look for machines with DVD-RW support (and/or DVD+RW). Such support is ideal if you want to play your daily recordings in a different DVD player. Otherwise most users generally stick to write once DVD-R as these offer great compatibility and are not subject to frequently formatting (and associated failures!).
|
 | DVD+RW
DVD+RW is a product of the breakaway DVD Alliance with very similar performance, compatibility and design to DVD-RW although, for their own political reasons, several companies block playback on some machines. DVD+RW offers storage of 4.7GB of video/data and around 1000 re-writes per disc**.
If you want to make compatible recordings on re-writeable discs then you should look for machines with DVD+RW support (and/or DVD-RW). Such support is ideal if you want to play your daily recordings in a different DVD player. Otherwise most users generally stick to write once DVD-R as these offer great compatibility and are not subject to frequently formatting (and associated failures!).
|
 | DVD+R
DVD+R is the write-once format and thus can be added to until the disc is full or is finalized. DVD+R offers 4.7GB of storage per disc and offers similar compatibility to DVD+RW - it will play in most, but not all, DVD players/DVD-ROM drives. DVD+R has a lifespan of upto 100 years**.
|
 | DVD+R DL
DVD+R DL is a new write-once format offering upto 8.5GB (as opposed to 4.7GB of the other formats) and is currently only found on a handful of DVD recorders (new Sony and LG models). Although it has not been around long enough for compatibility to be thoroughly tested there is no doubt there have been compatibility issues. However if a PC DVD burner capable of setting the book type (disc ID) to "DVD-ROM" is used then compatibility with existing DVD players/DVD-ROM drives appears to be significantly improved - unfortunately no set-top DVD recorders have this ability as of yet. |
* For compatibility with other DVD players then DVD-RW needs to be recorded in video mode. See next topic for explanation.
** Note that actually lifespan of all discs could be substantially less. Possibly as low as 10% of the stated period. See here for a further discussion on longevity and the importance of backups.
Should the the types of media supported influence your purchase? Aside from the compatibility of DVD-RW/DVD+RW or the longevity/caddy protection of DVD-RAM then the type of media a DVD recorder uses should really NOT be an issue when you chose your DVD recorder. All the DVDR formats are going to survive for the mid to long term - and there is not going to be a "Betamax" format as all DVD recorders can play DVD-Videos. The situation with DVDR formats is much more akin to the current solid state media 'formats' (such as SD Card, Memory Card, Compact Flash etc) than to the 80s VHS versus Betamax battle. All DVD recorders will record onto highly compatible write-once media (be it DVD-R or DVD+R). What should concern you when making your purchase are the features available and this all hinges upon the file format used - Video mode or Video Recording (VR) mode.
WHAT'S VR MODE? UNDERSTANDING DVD RECORDER FILE FORMATS
When the file structure for DVD-Video was devised it was aimed squarely at pre-recorded media. No serious thought was given to home recording as it was still several years away. Accordingly when DVD recorders became a viable option the features offered by such a file structure were minimal - the linear structure did not allow post recording editing or non-linear playback. Thus the DVD Forum devised Video Recording (VR) mode.
Unlike DVD-Video this uses a much simplier file structure that allows non-linear modification to the recorded data. This means features such as partial erase, editing, playlists, simultaneous record/playback, mixing of different media types (JPEG, MPEG1/2/4, MP3, WMA, WMV etc) and, in future models, dual record are all possible.
To summerise the major differences then:
VIDEO MODE v VIDEO RECORDING (VR) MODE |
- | COMPATIBLE WITH
EXISTING DVD PLAYERS? | ALLOWS
EDITING? | ALLOWS RECORDINGS
TO BE RE-ARRANGED? | ALLOWS
TIMESLIP? |
VIDEO MODE | YES | NO | NO | NO |
VR MODE | NO | YES | YES | YES |
The taking that into account the distinction between the above file formats is crucial to understanding which DVD recorder to get and what media to use:
- A recording on DVD-RAM will always use VR mode
- A recording on DVD-R will always use Video mode
- A recording on DVD-RW can be either Video or VR depending which is set before the recording is made.
- A recording to DVD+RW or DVD+R will always use Video mode
- Many HDD/DVDR combi recorders will record to the HDD in VR mode and allow you to dub (digitally) to DVD-R in Video mode.
Note that the above principles are a guide. Not all Video mode recordings will play on all DVD players due to physical incompatibility with the media: DVD-R plays on around 95% of existing DVD players whilst DVD-RW (Video Mode), DVD+RW and DVD+R play on around 88% of existing DVD players - no format has 100% compatibility! In addition not all 'VR' mode recordings offer all the features listed.
WHAT ARE THESE 'NEW' FORMATS: BLURAY AND HD-DVD? SHOULD I DELAY BUYING UNTIL THESE ARE AVAILABLE?
BluRay and HD-DVD are formats that are likely to surface in the US late this year (2005). They offer increased capacity over the DVD format and will primarily be used for High Definition video content. Both will be available in a variety of pre-recorded and recordable forms.
Unfortunately industry support for the two formats is split down the middle. BluRay's major supporters are Sony, Panasonic and Disney. HD-DVD heavyweights are Toshiba, NEC and Warner. Unlike the DVD recorder 'format war' though - which quickly defused itself with multi format devices and compatibility with DVD-Video - the situation between HD-DVD and BluRay is much more akin to the VHS v Betamax 'war' of the 80s. It is reasonable to suppose the availability and range of pre-recorded media will determine which format becomes dominant.
Regardless of which format comes out on top, it will be several years before the UK sees either format appear on middle market DVD recorders. Therefore it is highly recommended to buy a DVD recorder now - by the time you upgrade the new format will probably be established.
WHAT IS THE BENEFIT OF A HDD INSIDE A DVD RECORDER?
One of the big drawbacks of DVDR is capacity. All re-writeable DVDRs have a capacity of 4.7GB which translates into about 2 hours of high quality recording. Thus if you feel you're likely to exceed this regularly then consider a HDD/DVDR combi - especially if you have a TV/screen that enables you to appreciate the high quality mode.
However the core benefit of HDD/DVDR combi machines has nothing to do with capacity. The 'problem' with a non-HDD DVD recorder is that you can either make compatible recordings that play on other DVD players OR you can edit, re-arrange clips and enjoy simultaneous record/playback - you can't do both. The reason for this has already been described above - the DVD-Video format (which is the file format DVD players understand) cannot support such actions. Accordingly a different file format VR (Video Recording) mode has to be used. Now the benefit of a HDD/DVDR combi is that you record onto the HDD in 'VR' mode where you can edit/rearrange as required and then copy (in many cases losslessly) to DVDR in DVD-Video mode. Hence you get the best of both worlds.
With the above in mind it should be noted that there are some models of HDD/DVDR combi that are best avoided - in particular Philips HDD/DVD recorders. Philips currently have two such models available on the UK market (HDRW720 and HDRW725). Both have some fundamental limitations: editing is poor, simultaneous record/play is subject to limitations not found on other main brand models and, by far the worst omission, is the lack of any HDD to DVDR re-encoding options - if you record a programme to the Hard Disk Drive of a Philips machine you can only dub it to DVD if it fits. For example if you record a 2hr 5 minute movie in Standard Play (M2) it cannot be dubbed whole to a DVDR. Until such limitations are overcome these models should be avoided.
I HAVE SKY+ DO I STILL NEED A DVD RECORDER WITH A HDD?
Understandably this is a frequent question - the answer is it depends upon your needs. Sky+ is an excellent timeshifter. It records the broadcast 'bitstream' directly onto the HDD so, when you play it back, there is no loss of picture quality whatsoever. However it does not allow editing and, unless your willing to fill up the relatively small HDD, you are unable to archive recordings long term. However for the reasons explained in the previous heading with a non-HDD DVD recorder you can either make compatible recordings that play on other DVD players OR you can edit/re-arrange clips - you can't do both. Thus if you want to make edited recordings that play on other DVD players you should only consider buying a HDD/DVDR combi machine.
SHOULD I LOOK AT A MULTI FORMAT MACHINE?
All DVD recorders will record to at least two of the different DVDR formats. Looking at the major brands support is as follows:
Which Formats Are Supported By Which DVD Recorders? |
Bush | - | DVD-RW | DVD-R | - | - | - | - |
Hitachi | DVD-RAM | DVD-RW | DVD-R | - | - | - | - |
JVC | DVD-RAM | DVD-RW | DVD-R | - | - | - | - |
LG | DVD-RAM** | DVD-RW | DVD-R | DVD+RW | DVD+R | DVD+R DL | - |
Panasonic | DVD-RAM | DVD-RW* | DVD-R | - | DVD+R* | - | - |
Philips | - | - | - | DVD+RW | DVD+R | - | - |
Pioneer | DVD-RAM*** | DVD-RW | DVD-R | - | - | - | DVD-R DL |
Samsung | DVD-RAM | DVD-RW | DVD-R | - | - | - | - |
Sharp | - | DVD-RW | DVD-R | - | - | - | - |
Sony | - | DVD-RW | DVD-R | DVD+RW | DVD+R | DVD+R DL | - |
Thompson | - | - | - | DVD+RW | DVD+R | - | - |
Toshiba | DVD-RAM | DVD-RW | DVD-R | - | - | - | - |
* The Panasonic DMR-E500 only supports DVD-RAM and DVD-R (as do older Panasonic models).
** Only on selected models.
*** Pioneer currently only offer DVD-RAM playback on their new range of DVD recorders (DVDR433, DVDR530, DVDR630)
Is it worth choosing a DVD recorder based on how many formats it supports? No - not at all. If you want to make compatible re-writeable recordings that play on other DVD players then you should look at a machine that offers DVD-RW or DVD+RW. Whilst so called 'Dual' machines, such offered by LG and Sony, mean you can write to both DVD-RW and DVD+RW there is actually very little benefit to you. With either a DVD-RW or DVD+RW recording you will be able to put the disc in another player and watch it. Buying a Dual machine - because it is a dual machine - just means you are paying for two licenses. And certainly with a Sony or LG DVD recorder you would be well advised to stick to DVD-RW - especially as the main features of the machine are only available with this format.
The Multi format DVD recorders offered by Toshiba, Samsung, JVC and Hitachi have a more practical benefit to you. They offer DVD-RW, DVD-R and DVD-RAM recording. This offers slightly wider flexibility: DVD-R for archiving, DVD-RW for a compatible re-writeable media and DVD-RAM for timeslip, editing and high integrity backups. Again though you would be well advised not to buy a machine because it is a multi-format one - just add it as one factor in your overall decision.
HOW MANY HOURS/MINUTES CAN I RECORD ONTO A DVDR?
With the exception of the recent 8.5GB write-once DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL, all DVDRs are 4.7GB in capacity (this includes dual sided media which is effectively back-to-back single sided discs). The amount of programming you can record onto the disc is determined by the Recording Mode you use. These allow you to determine how much you want to record onto the DVDR. The longer the time period of the recording, the lower the picture quality will be.
Recording modes achieve this time versus quality compromise by altering two things: bitrate and the resolution. The bitrate is the amount of data used per second or per frame. The higher the bitrate the less likely you are to see any artifacts or errors in the picture. Such errors can frequently been seen on UK Digital TV as 'blocks' on the picture, a very soft picture or a tearing effect.
The second factor is resolution. The official DVD-Video specification allows two resolutions (for UK PAL discs): either 720/704 x 576 - known as full resolution - or 352 x 576/288 (half resolution). Unsurprisingly the former requires more data per second and thus uses up more space on the disc. However full resolution images are clearer and more enjoyable to watch - especially on a big screen. Even if recording from a low resolution source such as VHS it is still worth archiving in full resolution to ensure you capture maximum detail. See also here for more info.
Recording modes vary depending upon make of the DVD recorder. All models have a 'Standard Play' option that fits two hours per DVDR. Most offer a top quality mode of one hour per disc and a Long Play option of three and/or four hours per disc. Some models, such as the Panasonic range, offer 8 hours per disc.
A recording mode of particular note is Flexible Record. This is a 'custom' recording mode that lets you set the recording time to the nearest minute* and will adjust the quality accordingly. This recording mode can be found (with a variety of different names!) on Panasonic, Toshiba, Pioneer and JVC models. Samsung models also offer it but only via Timer recordings which impinges upon it's usefulness.
The benefits of flexible record are obvious. If, for example, you record a 2 hour 1 minute film on a Sony DVD recorder (which does not have flexible record) it will be recorded in low resolution. Do the same on a Panasonic and it will be in full resolution. The different (especially if you have a large CRT, Plasma or LCD) will be dramatic.
Generally how many recording modes a DVD recorder has should not be a major factor in purchase - although be aware of cheap models that only have 3 or 4 'fixed' recording modes with no flexible record. If you intend to archive recordings then you should seriously consider machines with Flexible Record as it allows the best possible quality recording given the programme length versus the disc space.
* Only Panasonic and Samsung models allow you to set recordings to the minute. Other brands allow you to set to the nearest five/six minutes. The difference is negligible.
WHAT CONNECTIONS SHOULD I LOOK FOR ON A DVD RECORDER?
Your intended use of your DVD recorder affects which connection types you must ensure your machine has prior to purchase. If you intend to record from a Freeview, Sky Digital (including Sky+) or Digital Cable sources then you should look for a model with RGB Scart input. Most major brands now have this: Sony, Panasonic, Pioneer, Toshiba, Philips, Samsung. But some models do not: Grundig, LG, Mico, Goodmans and other cheap brands. You should avoid these models if you wish to record in the highest possible quality. JVC has RGB input on some of it's models: the new DR-MH300 and DR-MH600 but not on the cheaper DR-M100.
If you wish to connect your TV via UHF (RF aerial) then note that almost all DVD recorders do NOT provide such an output. Whilst they all have internal tuners that use the UHF signal only Panasonic models have modulators to actually output via UHF. If a Panasonic model doesn't suit your needs you can buy external UHF modulator that will do the same job: such devices will convert almost any AV source (RGB, S-Video, composite) to RF.
If you intend to use your DVD recorder for DVD playback then you may want to consider a model with Component Outputs. Generally speaking this is the best form of analogue signal possible from a DVD player and should be an essential requirement if you have such inputs on your TV (or even if you plan to upgrade in the near future). Such connections can be found on Panasonic, JVC, Sony, Hitachi, Sony, Liteon and Toshiba models. The models that offer progressive scan output via component - JVC, Panasonic plus selected Sony and Toshiba models - will actually upscale from RGB/S-Video/Composite inputs (as well as the internal tuner) to progressive scan output. Results vary depending upon the screen/TV the recorder is paired with, individual preferences and the type of programmes being watch. Somepeople consider the end result to offer a dramatic improvement, others consider there to be a significant quality drop.
If you have a suitably equipped LCD, Plasma or Projector then you may want a DVD recorder with an HDMI or DVI-HDCP connection. Such DVD recorders are currently limited to just two at the moment - the Samsung R125 and the Pioneer DVDR920. However several other models are due soon: the Toshiba RDXS64 (160GB HDD/DVDR combi), the Sony RDHX910 (250GB HDD/DVDR/DVB combi) and Sony RDR-XSD1010 (400GB HDD/DVDR/DVB combi) will all be released in September/October with HDMI connections. Do note that using a HDMI or DVI connection does not guarantee a better picture than component!
If you have a Home Cinema Setup - whether an all-in-one or seperates - then you'll want to benefit from 5.1 sound. To do this you will need an Optical Digital Audio Output and/or a Coaxial Digital Audio Output. Optical Digital Audio outputs can be found on almost all DVD recorders however cheap and cheerful. Coaxial outputs are slightly rarer but can be found on JVC, Hitachi, Toshiba and Samsung DVD recorders. Whether the lack of coaxial is a decision in your purchase should be determined by what sockets you have free on your home cinema unit/AV receiver - whilst you can get optical>coaxial converters they don't generally perform that well so if you want coaxial I would suggest getting a unit already so equipped.
If you have a digital camcorder and intend to archive from that then you should look for an iLink connection (also called Firewire). iLink is not normally found on the basic models in each line so ensure your model does have it prior to purchase. Panasonic, for example, only offer iLink on their DMR-E65 model and on the DMR-E95, DMR-E500 - the popular DMR-ES10 and DMR-EH50 do not have this connection. The same is true for Sony, Pioneer, Philips and other major brands.
If you have a digital camera and wish to use it with your DVD recorder then you might want to consider either Panasonic or Samsung machines. The former offer PC/SD Card slots on some of their machines (an SD card slot can be found on the EH50. Both PC and SD cards, coupled with full dubbing options, can be found on the DMR-E500). Samsung offer multi card slots on their HDD/DVDR combi (the Samsung DVDR700E). Both connection types allow dubbing of JPEGs to and from DVD-RAM and/or HDD. Production of DVD-Video slideshows is not currently possible on any DVD recorder.
I WANT TO EDIT MY RECORDINGS - WHAT IS THE BEST DVD RECORDER FOR THIS?
As has already been discussed above DVD-Video uses a linear file system that doesn't support post recording actions such as editing. Thus if you want to edit you need a machine that supports the DVD Forum's Video Recording (VR) mode. This effectively means any DVD-RAM recorder (Panasonic, Samsung, Toshiba, Hitachi) or most DVD-RW machines that allow 'VR' mode recording (Pioneer, LG, Sony, Sharp). Editting comes in two forms:
- Playlist Editing. This is also known as non-destructive editing. It allows the user to insert markers at specific points within the recording and then to select which segments play. Thus a recording can be edited and re-arranged repeatedly without harming the original recording. Playlist are ideal for those wish to arrange musical recordings or who wish to keep modifying their edits until they are perfect.
- Partial Erase. Also known as A-B erase this allows you to physically delete segments of a recording. It is ideal for deleting adverts breaks and trimming the start/end of a programme.
An vital point to understand before buying a DVD recorder is that if you wish to make edited recordings that play on other DVD players then you need to buy a HDD/DVDR combi recorder. Virtually all HDD/DVDRs allow you to record in VR mode on the HDD (where you can use playlists/Partial Erase) and then dub to DVD-R in DVD-Video mode for compatibility.
If you wish to edit Philips machines (such as the HDRW720 or HDRW725) should be avoided as these do not support VR mode at all on the HDD and thus do not allow accurate, effective editing. Sony HDD/DVD recorders do not support Playlist editing on the HDD (but do on DVD-RW VR mode) - so if you foresee that being of use then avoid the Sony models. Panasonic, Pioneer, Toshiba and Samsung models all offer effective editing and are highly recommended for this purpose.
CAN I RECORD IN WIDESCREEN (16:9) ON A DVD RECORDER?
Yes. All DVD recorders will record an anamorphic (16:9) signal if that is what is being fed to them. All TV images, including widescreen ones, are transmitted in 4:3 (an old TV shape). Widescreen programming however is broadcasts in a deformed fashion, i.e. the wide picture is squashed into a 4:3 ratio (this is known as an anamorphic transmission). To identify such broadcasts (so your TV can stretch them) a Widescreen Switching Signal (WSS) is transmission with the programme. And this is where the problem occurs for DVD recorders - the Widescreen Switching Signal (WSS) is not always recorded.
This is not a massive issue. Widescreen TVs and even most 4:3 TVs have an 'Aspect' or 'Widescreen' button that will return an anamorphic widescreen image to the correct ratio (by stretching the picture or adding black bars). Thus the effect of not recording the Widescreen Switching Signal is that users will have to press a button on their TV handset.
Recording in Video Recording (VR) Mode onto a HDD, DVD-RAM or DVD-RW (VR) will generally preserve the WSS and thus enable proper ration viewing without any user intervention. But recording onto a DVDR in the DVD-Video format - using DVD+RW, DVD+R, DVD-R, DVD-RW (Video mode), DVD+R DL, DVD-R DL - will generally NOT record the WSS. In such situations you would need to press your Aspect or Widesceen button on your TV to enable non-distorted viewing.
There are a few exceptions: the Toshiba RDXS34 allows users to manually set the flag on a DVD-R disc. All credit to the Sony range though - these models will record the flag automatically whether recording in VR mode or Video mode provided you use either DVD-RW or DVD-R - they will not do so if you use DVD+RW/DVD+R.
CAN I RECORD DOLBY DIGITAL 5.1 SURROUND SOUND?
Sky+ (and presumably the new TeleWest Explorer 8300DVB when it arrives) will both record in Dolby Digital 5.1. These machines simply record the broadcast data onto their internal HDDs - if a channel broadcasts in 5.1 it will be recorded as such. The same will also be true if and when Freeview channels commence 5.1 broadcasting for PVRs such as the Humax PVR8000T, Thomson DHD4000 and Pace Twin. As with Sky+ these machines simply record the transmitted signal. However the options for archiving that 5.1 soundtrack from any of these machines onto a DVD recorder are very limited.
All DVD recorders currently record in 2 channel Dolby Digital - they do not have digital inputs (coaxial or optical) or even 5.1 analogue inputs - thus are unable of recording 5.1 soundtracks. Several companies, including KISS and Philips, have announced future products that will allow 5.1 recording via an optical input. The Philips DVDR7200 (DVD+RW/+R standalone) looks like it will be the first with a UK release scheduled for October 2005. Whatever, as such models will command a price-premium, it is worth considering whether you need 5.1 input before opting for such a model. In the UK we have very few 5.1 sources - indeed only selected movies transmitted on Sky Movies are transmitted with 5.1 - and most/all of these can be purchased cheaply on DVD with considerably better picture and sound quality.
I WANT TO ARCHIVE FROM VHS - WHAT IS THE BEST DVDR FOR THIS?
Most DVD recorders will do a splendid task of converting your VHS tapes to DVD. The models to avoid are the Philips range, and models heavily based on their reference designs (Mico, Grundig, Goodmans, Yamada and many other 'unknown' brands) as these do not have Time Based Correctors (TBC) - a simple element within a recorder that stabilises the image from analogue sources. Recording from an old analogue source without an inbuilt TBC means the possibility of audio sync issues as well as an unstable picture.
A good feature you should look for when purchasing a DVD recorder with a view to archiving from VHS is flexible record. This is found on Panasonic, Toshiba, JVC, Pioneer and Samsung* DVD recorders (although it is only called flexible record on the Panasonic). This feature enables you to set the datarate (the time versus recording quality) to match the length of the programme you are recording. Although VHS is a low resolution source it is an noisy analogue one - this requires a large amount of data to faithfully capture the detail of the recording. The presence of flexible record means that you don't have to waste any space on the disc that could otherwise be used for improving the quality of the recording. For example...
You have a 75 minute (1 hour 35min) VHS recording you want to archive to DVDR. On a Sony DVD recorder, which doesn't have Flexible Record, you must use Standard Play (2 hours per disc). This means there is 25mins (a little under 1GB) of wasted space. By contrast if you had a Panasonic you could dial in 1hr 35mins and that would completely fill the disc. The difference between the two recordings would be substantial.
Several producers - such as JVC, Panasonic, Bush and Toshiba - have released VCR/DVDR combi machines. Normally, as with any AV purchase, separates are the better option as they allow you to get the best device that most suits your needs for each function. That principle also holds true with VCR/DVDR combis with a few exceptions. Firstly, due to plummitting profit margins on VHS technology, it is getting increasingly hard to find a quality VCR. Some of the best available at the moment are the JVC models - hardly surprising as they invented the format. Secondly VCR/DVDR combis offer the easiest way to transfer your VHS tapes (non-protected ones!) to DVD. With a standalone you can get interference or colour bleed which may require an external picture stabiliser/enhancer. With an all-in-one this is not an issue. Thirdly some of the better combis - namely the JVC DR-MV1 (DVDR/VCR combi) or Panasonic DMR-ES30V - have extensive picture processing aimed at maximising VHS quality on a DVDR. Bottomline then if your considering a DVDR/VCR combi make sure it's a JVC or Panasonic one!
Finally - just to complicate the whole issue further - a couple of producers now have HDD/DVDR/VCR combis available. The JVC DR-MX1 is the first of these and allows dubbing to and from HDD, DVDR and VHS. Both Panasonic (DMR-EH70V) and Pioneer (DVR-RT7H) are planning to release similar models in the UK later this year. The pros and cons for such machines are very much the same as for DVDR/VCR combis.
* The Samsung only allows flexible record when using the timer.
ARE THERE ANY DVD RECORDERS THAT CONTROL MY SKY/FREEVIEW/NTL DIGIBOX?
A number of DVD recorders have set-top box control. These include the Toshiba RDXS34, Pioneer DVR-530, Pioneer DVDR-630 and some models from the JVC range (the MH20, MH30 and DR-MX1). They use a 'magic wand' that will switch your digibox to the relevant channel for a Timer recording. Other machines, such as the Panasonic range, can be set to record from a Sky digibox using the Personnel Planner feature of Sky. However experience has shown that such a link can be unreliable and the RGB connection cannot be used which prevents best quality recording.
ARE THERE ANY DVD RECORDERS WITH A FREEVIEW TUNER?
There are currently only three DVD recorders available with Freeview tuners - the Sony GXD500, JVC DRM150 and Panasonic ES20D (all are non-HDD models). That said a number of companies (including Samsung and Philips) have announced a variety of UK specific models will be available throughout the course of this year. Models that have already been announced are:
- Samsung DVD-SR420 - DVD-RAM/-RW/-R recorder with PAL Progressive Scan and EPG
- Sony RDR-RHXD710 - 160GB HDD/DVD-RAM/-RW/-R/+R recorder with PAL Progressive Scan and EPG
- Sony RDR-RHXD910 - 250GB HDD/DVD-RAM/-RW/-R/+R recorder with PAL Progressive Scan, HDMI and EPG
- Sony RDR-RHXD1010 - 400GB HDD/DVD-RAM/-RW/-R/+R recorder with PAL Progressive Scan, HDMI and EPG
- Panasonic DMR-EH60 - HDD/DVD-RAM/-RW/-R/+R recorder with PAL Progressive Scan and EPG
- Philips DVDR7200 - DVD+RW/+R recorder with HDMI, 5.1 recording and EPG
...others are sure to follow!
Needless to say there are a number of advantages for a DVD recorder having an integrated Freeview tuner. First and foremost it potentially means high quality, all digital recording*. Secondly it enables the user to set the DVD Recorder's timer using the Freeview Electronic Programme Guide (EPG) - this makes recording somewhat easier. And thirdly, with the analogue switch-off coming 'sometime' in the near future it will prevent your recorder having an obsolete tuner. All this said though - if you don't want to record from Freeview then avoid these machines as they carry a substantial price-premium. And remember - any DVD recorder can be connected to a Freeview digibox!
* The Sony models will have an 'all-digital' recording process. Other makes are not yet confirmed on this issue.
WHAT DVD RECORDERS OFFER THE BEST RECORDING PICTURE QUALITY?
The "best" picture quality will always be a subjective issue. Different DVD recorders deal with the 'problem' of compressing video onto DVD in different ways. For example at longer recording modes a Panasonic will gradually soften the picture in preference to displaying artifacts such as blocking. By contrast a Pioneer model will display blocking whilst retaining a sharper picture. It all depends upon your personal preference and how your Television or Screen copes with each. Therefore it is highly recommended you trial a unit to ensure it meets your personnel standards and proves to be a good match for your screen.
All this said there are a number of factors which you should consider when preparing a shortlist of DVD recorders as they directly effect the recorded picture quality. The first is recording resolution. When recording in the higher quality modes (e.g. 1 hour of recording to fill a disc) DVD recorders record using a resolution of 720/704 x 576. This can give a stunning picture but means that a DVDR fills up fairly quickly. Thus to save space so longer recordings can be archived on one disc a DVD recorder will drop to a lower resolution of 352 x 576/288. Naturally full resolution recordings look better than low resolutions ones - thus the aim is to get a DVD recorder that can record for longer periods at full resolution. Current models offer the following performance:
- LG and Panasonic upto 4 hours
- Pioneer and Thompson upto 3 hours
- JVC, Samsung, Sony and Philips 2 hours 30mins
- Toshiba around 2 hours 20mins
- Most budget DVD recorders
Clearly then LG, Panasonic and Thompson are in the lead with regard to picture quality although the benefit to you will depend upon the length of recordings you foresee yourself making. Don't discount units such as Sony, Pioneer and Toshiba just because of these figures - recordings above the resolution drop can look stunning on these models.
The second issue which effects picture quality is the connections offered by the unit. To record the best possible picture quality in a recording you need to ensure you are recording the best possible signal. For Sky, Freeview or Cable recording this invariably means your recorder needs RGB input. Most DVD recorders do have this these days - the ones who don't are JVC, LG and cheaper, lesser known brands. If you intend to record from Sky, Freeview or Cable try to avoid these models.
There are obviously many other factors that affect the recorded picture quality. Build quality for example as is quality of components (e.g. the internal tuner or analogue to digital encoder). However from a buyers perspective there is little you can do in this respect to alter performance: in recent years DVD recorders have plummeted in price - as have the profit margins - hence even the mid-range DVD recorders tend to have a cheap build with cheap components. The only two major exceptions are the Panasonic DMR-E500 and the Pioneer DVDR920 - unsurprising given both of these retail for over £1000.
* This applies to new Panasonic models only. Previous models (DMR-E500 and the DMR-Ex5 series) all offer upto 3hrs full resolution recording.
WHAT DVD RECORDERS OFFER THE BEST DVD PLAYBACK?
As with DVD recording this is somewhat subjective. No website is any substitute for seeing a unit in action. However it is worth noting that in general DVD recorders make only very average DVD players. A good general rule is that if you halve the cost of the DVD recorder, that is the level of player you are getting. For mid to upper end users there is no substitute for having a dedicated standalone DVD player!
In general terms Sony models, with their 12 Bit DAC, tend to have the edge on DVD playback - certainly if your more interested in playing than recording the Sony range is an excellent place to start. Toshiba and Panasonic are also reasonable players although neither match the callibre of the dedicated mid range DVD players released by each firm. For those projector, plasma and LCD users with HDMI connections then the Pioneer DVR920 is a worthy choice. Although again note that even via HDMI the 920 cannot match cheaper HDMI players such as the Arcam DV79 or Denon 3910.
WHAT DVD RECORDERS HAVE AN EPG?
A handful of new DVD recorders have an Electronic Programme Guide (EPG). Such an addition makes them slicker and easier to use - gone are the days where you need to manually set the Timer! Integrated EPGs currently come in two varieties*: those that use a third-party system called Guideplus and those that use the 'broadcast' Freeview EPG.
- Guideplus. This EPG funds itself by showing adverts in the corner of the screen. It can be found integrated into some Philips models, the Pioneer DVR-530, Pioneer DVR-630 and the new JVC DR-MH300/DR-MH600 models. It aquires it's programme information from analogue ITV/Eurosport transmissions and provides programming information for the terrestial channels, Freeview and Sky/Cable. Guideplus provides a slick interface but is hampered in the UK by a lack of bandwidth - it will not respond to last minute programme changes - and does not allow extra time to be added before a programme is due to start (meaning the start of programmes can be missed).
- Freeview. This is the EPG most manufacters see is becoming 'the standard' and most of you will be familar with it already. It provides 8 day listings for Freeview channels and is provided free without advertising. It's implementation varies between machines (unlike Guideplus which is the same cross platform). The only DVD Recorder currently to offer this is the Sony GXD500 - this offers a slick interface but does not allow extra time to be added before or after a programme (meaning starts and/or ends of programmes can be missed). The Freeview EPG will respond to last minute programme changes though. It will form the basis of the EPG for the upcoming Panasonic and Sony DVB recorders.
The bottomline is that although integrated EPGs are the future they have someway to go yet before they are particularly reliable for precision recording. If EPG recording is essential to you then I strongly urge you to purchase Sky+ (satellite viewers) which has a reliable EPG that responds to last minute changes and allows extra time to be added before and after programmes are due to start/finish. A similar option will become available for Cable users soon in the form of the the Explorer 8300DVB.
* A third variety, the internet based EPG, is likely to be rolled out this year on Panasonic's flagship DVD recorder (due November).
WHAT DVD RECORDERS WILL DISPLAY JPEG PICTURES?
Most DVD recorders will display JPEG pictures recorded on a CD-R/CD-RW but will not read them if stored on DVD recordable media. The only major exception to this rule is the Panasonic range. Panasonic DVD Recorders will not display JPEGs stored on CD-R/-RW - and the budget Panasonic ES10 will not display JPEGs on any media. However most of their other DVD recorders will display JPEGs stored on DVD-RAM or on solid memory cards.
For those users wanting Kodak CD or Fuji Colour CD compatibility then look at the Pioneer range. These are currently the only DVD recorders compatible with these types of discs.
WHAT DVD RECORDERS WILL PLAY MP3 AUDIO FILES?
Virtually all DVD recorders will play MP3 files from a CD-R or CD-RW. There are currently no DVD recorders that will play these files from a DVD-R/-RW/+RW/+R/-RAM.
WHAT DVD RECORDERS WILL PLAY WMA AUDIO FILES
Most Pioneer, Toshiba and Thompson DVD recorders offer Windows Media Audio playback.
WHAT DVD RECORDERS WILL PLAY DVD-AUDIO OR SACD?
Most Panasonic DVD recorders offer DVD-Audio playback although only the top-of-the-range Panasonic DMR-E500 offers 5.1 playback. All the other models merely offer 2 channel playback. No DVD recorders currently offer SACD playback.
WHAT DVD RECORDERS WILL PLAY XVID, WMV, DIVX, MPEG4 (ETC) VIDEO FILES?
DVD recorders that can handle some of the more common PC video file formats such as XVID, WMV, DIVX and MPEG4 are virtually non-existent. Panasonic offers MPEG4 recording/playback on it's top of the range HDD/DVDR combi (the Panasonic E500) but this is mainly aimed for use with Panasonic handheld devices - it does not playback DivX files!
For DivX playback the Samsung R120 is the best of (very) limited choice. Other 'down market' brands such as KISS also offer DivX playback - although don't expect a top-of-the-range DVD recorder! For ulitimate compatibility with new generation codecs then the Ellion DVR-530S is a bargain basement DVD+RW/DVD+R recorder that will play DIVX and XVID files but is strictly for those willing to sacrifice recording quality for playback of such file types. Currently no DVD recorders offer WMV compatibility.
WHEN WAS MY DVD RECORDER RELEASED?
DVD recorders have been available in the UK since later 2001/early 2002 and thus there is now a thriving second hand market as well as a large number of retailers offering amazing discounts on 'old' models. Consult this chart to see the age of the model you are interested in.
|
HOME
