Setting the record straight.
Pros:
Video quality.
Cons:
Aggressive copy protection.
The Bottom Line:
A fair VCR replacement.
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Overall Rating:
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Author's Review
After seeing so many complaints, I knew I had to post and set the record straight on this DVD recorder. I purchased this machine used about eight months ago, so I have a fair bit of experience with it. I have also used several other similar devices from Sony's competitors. All of the competitors' machines eventually ended up being returned for poor video quality or some other issue, such as failing to complete burning a DVD. That being said, this machine was a pleasant surprise after experimenting with numerous others.
The Sony brand has always been a mark of quality and reliability. Over the years, I have made the decision to pay a bit more and buy Sony products, and have seen the results of that choice. As friends saw their electronics begin to fail and had to replace them, my Sony products just kept on running. In the end, they ultimately ended up paying more.
The first thing you will notice about this DVD recorder is its design. It is stylish, yet simple. It won't attract a lot of attention in your entertainment center, but upon closer examination, the quality can be seen. The remote is similarly well-designed. You have access to every necessary feature on a relatively small, grey remote.
I would consider the video quality to be comparable to VHS on the two highest settings. Go any lower than that, and you will see noticeable distortions. Aside from video quality, one must consider what can actually be recorded with this system. Most movies will be impossible to record, whether they are from television or older VHS tapes. This may be a sticking point for someone looking to move their VHS movie archive to DVD. I don't understand the prevention of recording movies airing on television, as I thought this legal issue was settled with the introduction of the VCR.
My final point with this machine is that I have never had a bad burn. Not once have I had a useless DVD pop out of the drive.
Overall, I say this recorder is quite capable. If you are worried about he copy restrictions, however, you may wish to look elsewhere.
