If you are looking a DVD Recorder/VCR Combination to replace that old VCR, check out the LG RC897T.
This DVD recorder/VCR combo has the ability to record most DVD formats and play back most DVD and CD formats, including MP3, WMA, and Jpeg files. Using the VCR section, the consumer can both record directly to VHS or dub non-copyprotected video content from VHS to DVD or DVD to VHS. The incorporation of an HDMI output and video upscaling function is a nice touch that makes the RC897T a good match for an HDTV. The RC897T has both analog and DV video inputs, as well as a USB input for digital image and music file playback. This unit also complies with the upcoming DTV transition requirements, with its built-in ATSC tuner, which allows reception of digital tv signals. For a closer look at the features, functions, and peformance of the LG RC897T, check out my
Short and
Full Reviews, as well as a
Photo Gallery and
Video Performance Test Results.
Photos (c) Robert Silva, Licensed to About.com
Comments
That is an excellent and informative review of the LG RC897T that you wrote. I was interested to know if you encountered any problems with CPRM (Content Protection for Recordable Media) on the RC897T. I wrote a post about this issue on my own blog:
http://pfstock.blogspot.com/2009/01/did-i-buy-defective-dvd-recorder.html
The main symptom is that the DVD recorder will stop recording in the middle of a TV program for no apparent reason. My research has shown that the DVD recorder will stop recording anytime that it encounters a CPRM flag. It appears that these flags are broadcast at random times, and that many people have claimed that the DVD recorder is defective because it stops recording at unpredictable times. Maybe you can shed some more light on this issue?
On the LG RC897T itself, I will add another item in its favor is that you can add and delete digital channels manually. Several other DVD/VCR/tuner combos that I looked at require you to do another complete scan to add new channels.
On the negative side, the RC897T remote works with only a small percentage of TV brands. My TVs (Toshiba and JVC) were not supported. Also, there is no auto clock set mechanism. I expected that if it has a digital tuner, it should be able to get the correct time from the broadcasts.
My vcr never records well. The picture always jumps.
I have bought new taps hoping that the problem was with the
tapes but it was not. I would not buy this product again.