LG LRY-517 Overview: If you are confused as to whether or not to replace that aging VCR with a DVD recorder, now may be the time as LG introduces its Super Multi-Format DVD Recorder/VCR Combination, the LRY-517. What makes this unit special is that it not only records to both DVD and VHS, but can record in all, yes ALL, currently available DVD recording formats: DVD-R/DVD-RW/DVD+R/DVD+RW/DVD+R DL and DVD-RAM. Now, you don't have to decide what format to buy, with the LRY-517 you can have it all, plus VHS.
Recording Capabilities: DVD recording capability in all formats: DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD+R Dual Layer, DVD-RAM as well as recording to VHS HiFi. Other recording features include: Bi-directional dubbing of non-copy-protected DVD and VHS tapes, timer recording from built-in TV tuner, and Chase Play (simultaneous record and play) with DVD-RAM discs. In addition, DVD-RAM affords extensive on-disc editing capabilities, and DVD+R DL allows twice the video time on a disc than the single layer recordable DVD formats.
Playback Compatibility: The LR-517 is playback compatible with all recordable DVD formats and VHS tape, plus standard DVD-Video, CD, CD-R/RW, VCD, SVCD, DivX, MPEG-4, MP3-CD, WMA-CD and JPEG formats. The inclusion of DivX, MGEG4, MP3-CD/ WMA, and JPEG on the playback side makes the LRY-517 very versatile for those that want to playback these files through their audio and video system, rather than just a PC. However, DVD-Audio and SACD playback, common on some DVD players, are not supported on the LRY-517.
Additional Playback Compatibility: In addition to extensive playback compatibility with VHS and various DVD and CD video and audio formats, the LRY-517 also has a built-in card reader that supports CompactFlash, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, MultiMediaCard, SD (Secure Digital), xD-Picture Card, and SmartMedia, allowing display of digital camera photos on your television. The memory card reader is for playback only, the user cannot copy digital photos to DVD or CD from the memory card reader provided on the LRY-517.
Video and Audio Inputs: The LRY-517 has the usual complement of video and audio inputs common on DVD recorders. The inputs provided are: Two standard composite video, S-Video (front panel only), and one RF for analog video sources as well as 1 IEEE 1394 (FireWire/iLink) input for digital video transfer from miniDV and Digital8 camcorders. The LRY-517 does not have component video inputs. It must be noted that very few DVD recorders include the component video input option.
Video and Audio Outputs: The LRY-517 has the audio and video outputs present on most DVD recorders and players. The outputs include: One S-video, one RF, one component video, one composite, one analog stereo audio, one digital optical audio, and one coaxial digital audio. Progressive scan is supported via the component video outputs, while Dolby Digital and DTS are supported by the digital optical and digital coaxial audio outputs. The LRY-517 does not offer HDMI or DVI outputs that are becoming common on DVD players.
Additional Features: Additional features of the LRY-517 include: Built-in NTSC tuner for recording television programming, DVD-to-VHS and VHS-to-DVD dubbing for non-copyprotected video content, 27MHz/10-bit video digital-to-analog (D/A) conversion; 192kHz/24-bit audio digital-to-analog (D/A) conversion, Black level adjustment, Vocal Off, and complete DVD disc navigation features, such as slow motion, zoom, and programmable play. A universal remote control is also provided.
Pricing and Availability: The LG LRY-517 has an MSRP (Manufacturer's List Price) of $449.95 and is available now.
My Take - DVD Recording Leadership In A Confusing Market: DVD recorders are indeed popular, but they are also very confusing for the consumer. With multiple recording formats and widely differing capabilities, choosing the right DVD recorder can be a very challenging task; even salespersons aren't as well-versed on the technology as they should be.
Although several manufacturers have introduced multi-format units, up until the introduction of the LG LRY-517, there wasn't a DVD recorder that could actually record and playback ALL of the currently available recordable DVD formats. As a further bonus, the 517 also includes a four head HiFi Stereo VCR.
Although the anticipated introduction of the Blu-ray and HD-DVD high definition DVD formats may again complicate the DVD recording landscape; for the time being, LG is showing real leadership in the confusing DVD recorder market with the introduction LG LRY-517. If you are considering making the jump to DVD recording, this one may be worth a look.
For a look at the complete specifications for the LG LRY-517, check out the LG Website (PDF File)
