Top DVD Recorders

1. Sony RDR-GX455 DVD Recorder With ATSC Tuner

Flexibility is the key to Sony's RDR-GX455 DVD recorder. With the ability to record in four of the five available recordable DVD formats: DVD+R/DVD+R DL/DVD+RW/DVD-R/DVD-RW you can make DVDs that will play in just about any DVD player. In addition, this is not only a flexible recorder but has high-end playback features, including progressive scan and video upscaling via HDMI. Add a full complement of video inputs, including a DV input, and the incorporation of both NTSC and ATSC tuners, this is definitely a DVD recorder to consider.

2. Panasonic DMR-EZ17 DVD Recorder with ATSC Tuner

The Panasonic DMR-EZ17 is a great entry-level new generation DVD recorder that includes an ATSC Tuner. This allows the reception and recording of over-the-air digital TV signals, which will replace the current analog signals on February 17, 2009. In addition to an ATSC tuner, the DMR-EZ17 also includes other great features, such as compatibility with most DVD recording formats, a DV input for recording from digital camcorders, and progressive scan component video outputs. Another bonus, is Panasonic's enhance playback quality on discs recorded using the four hour LP mode. When comparing the LP mode playback on Panasonic DVD recorders and most other brands, you can tell the difference. For more details, check out the DMR-EZ17 User Manual.

3. Philips DVDR3575H DVD - Hard Drive Combination Recorder

Philips has had ups and downs with DVD recorders over the years, but with the DVDR3575H/37 they are definitely on track. Not only is this DVD recorder/Hard Drive combo one of the few on the market currently, but, at the time of this posting, it may be the only DVD/HDD combo that has a built-in ATSC tuner in preparation for the February 17, 2009 Analog Television Broadcast cuff-off date. The DVDR3575H/37 features a 160GB hard drive for temporary video storage, DVD+R/+RW/-R/-RW format recording, DVD/Hard Drive cross dubbing, iLink input for digital camcorders, and video upscaling to 1080p on playback via HDMI output. If you are looking DVD recorder/Hard Drive combination, be sure to seek out the DVDR3575H/37. Check out the User Manual.

4. Sony RDR-GX355 Tunerless DVD Recorder

The Sony RDR-GX355 DVD recorder has the ability to record in most of the available recordable DVD formats: DVD+R/DVD+R DL/DVD+RW/DVD-R/DVD-RW. This alllows you can make DVDs that will play in just about any DVD player. In addition, this is not only a flexible recorder, but has high-end playback features, including progressive scan and video upscaling via HDMI. The GX355 also has both analog and DV inputs. One thing the GX355 does not have, however, is built-in tuners. In order to record television programs, you must have a cable box, satellite box, or DTV converter connected to the line inputs of the GX355. For more details on the setup and operation of the RDR-GX355, you can actually download the User Manual.

5. Toshiba D-R410 DVD Recorder with HDMI Output

Here is a budget-priced DVD recorder with very practical features. For a price below $130, the Toshiba DR410 offers DVD-R/-RW and +R/+RW format recording with Auto Finalization, a front panel DV-input for connecting digital camcorders, and an HDMI output with 1080p upscaling. In addition, the DR410 can also play back Divx file discs, as well as standard audio CDs. However, the DR-410 does not have a built-in tuner, so it is necessary to use an external cable or satellite box to record television programs. If you subscribe to cable or satellite and use a box, and have an HDTV to access the 410's upscaling video output capability, then this DVD recorder might be a good match for your entertainment setup.

6. Sony DVDirect MC5 - VRD-MC5 DVD Hybrid DVD Recorder

If you want the the abilities of a PC-DVD drive, without the hassle of the PC, then consider the Sony VRD-MC5. This device is a complete standalone DVD recorder that accepts video directly from Camcorders, VCRs, and still photos from digital camera memory cards. The VRD-MC5 records in a variety of formats, including AVCHD. AVCHD alllows high definition video recording on a standard DVD (Note: AVCHD recordings can only be played in a Blu-ray Disc player). Its built-in 2.5-inch LCD screen allows you to monitor your recording. One drawback: this unit does not have its own built-in tuner for recording TV programs, however, using its AV inputs, you can connect a cable or satellite box that has either RCA or S-Video outputs to perform this task.

7. Samsung DVD-AR650 DVD Recorder with ATSC Tuner

The Samsung DVD-AR650 is one of the new generation DVD recorders that includes an ATSC tuner. This allows the reception and recording of over-the-air digital TV signals, which will replace the current analog signals on February 17, 2009. In addition, this low-profile, stylish unit also incorporates multi-format DVD recording, both analog and DV video inputs, and playback with 720p/1080i upscaling via its HDMI output. If you are shopping for a new DVD recorder and you receive your television programming over-the-air, then getting a DVD recorder with a built-in ATSC tuner, such as the Samsung DVD-AR650 may be a good choice for you. For a more detailed look, check out the DVD-AR650 User Manual.