DVD recorder/VCR combos are here. For those that are both replacing a VCR and want a DVD recorder, this flexible option gives you the best of the old and the new. You can use these units to play DVDs and VHS tapes, as well as record or copy homemade recordings (such as camcorder tapes, television recordings, etc...). However, keep in mind that DVD recorder/VCR combos cannot be used to copy commercially made DVD movies to VHS or commercially made VHS movies to DVD, due to copy-protection.
1. Panasonic DMR-EZ48VK DVD recorder/VCR Combo with HDMI
The Panasonic DMR-EZ48VK DVD recorder/VCR combo has the ability to record most DVD formats and play back most DVD and CD formats, including MP3 and Divx files. In addition 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. With Panasonic's enhanced 4-hour recording mode, you can record sporting events and longer movies onto DVD with the same video quality as the 2-hour recording mode. The incorporation of HDMI and video upscaling makes the EZ48VK a good match for an HDTV. The DMR-EZ48VK has both an SD card slot and USB input for digital image and music file playback, as well as an ATSC tuner.
2. Panasonic DMR-EA38VK DVD Recorder/VCR Combo
The Panasonic DMR-EA38VK has the ability to record most DVD formats, and play back most DVD and CD formats. In addition 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. Also, with Panasonic's enhanced 4-hour recording mode, you can record sporting events and longer movies onto DVD with the same video quality as the 2-hour recording mode. The incorporation of HDMI and video upscaling makes the EA38VK a good partner for use with an HDTV. NOTE: The EA38VK requires an external DTV Converter, Cable, or Satellite Box to receive and record television programming. For details, check out the User Manual.3. LG RC897T DVD Recorder/VCR Combination
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The RC897T DVD recorder/VCR combo has the ability to record most DVD formats and play back most DVD and CD formats. 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 LG RC897T, check out my Short and Full Reviews, as well as a Photo Gallery.
4. Sony RDR-VX560 DVD Recorder/VCR Combo
Sony's RDR-VX560 DVD recorder/VCR combo has the ability to record in four of the five available recordable DVD formats: DVD+R/DVD+R DL/DVD+RW/DVD-R/DVD-RW so you can make DVDs that will play in just about any DVD player. Of course, you can still record and play back in VHS. This is not only a flexible recorder but has high-end playback features, including progressive scan and video upscaling via HDMI. A full complement of video inputs, including DV and USB inputs, makes the Sony RDR-VX560 DVD Recorder/VCR Combination is very versatile. In order to record TV programs, you must connect a Cable/Satellite or DTV Converter Box.5. Toshiba DVR620 DVD Recorder VCR Combination
The Toshiba DVR620 is a DVD recorder/VCR combo with practical features, including the ability to record in most DVD formats and play back most DVD and CD formats, including Divx, MP3, and WMA files. In addition, 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. Another convenience is the auto-finalize function. As an added bonus, HDMI output and video upscaling to 1080p makes the DVR620 easy to use with an HDTV. However, keep in mind that this DVD recorder/VCR combo does not have built-in tuners. In order to record television programming, you need to connect a cable box, satellite box, or DTV converter into the audio/video line inputs of the DVR620.6. JVC DR-MV150B DVD Recorder/VCR Combination
The JVC DR-MV150B is a DVD Recorder/VCR combo that offers both good performance and a versatile feature package. This combo can record in the DVD+R/RW, DVD-R/RW, and DVD-RAM formats and plays back most DVD and CD formats, including MP3 and Divx files. In addition, using the VCR section, the consumer can both record directly to VHS (HiFi) or dub non-copyprotected video content from VHS to DVD or DVD to VHS. The MV150B also has a front mounted DV input (iLink) that allows direct video and audio transfer from digital camcorders. Also, with its HDMI output the DR-MV150B can upscale to both DVD and VHS up to 1080p. The DR-MV100B is also equipped with built-in ATSC/QAM tuners for reception of over-the-air or unscrambled DTV signals.7. JVC SR-DVM700US DVD/miniDV/Hard Drive Combination Recorder
If you are looking for a DVD recorder that is a cut-above the typical consumer-based unit, you might want to check out a professional unit, such as the JVC SR-DVM700US. This recorder not only features DVD-R/-RW and DVD-RAM recording capability, combined with a large 250GB hard drive, but also adds miniDV recording and playback capability. In addition, the DVM700US also has cross-dubbing and editing capability. Although the capabilities of this unit are extensive, it does not have a built-in tuner or 720p/1080i/1080p upscaling output capability, and is expensive. This is definitely a unit best suited for the more serious user or video editor. For a detailed look at the features and functions of the JVC SR-DVM700US, download the User Manual.8. Samsung DV-VR375 DVD Recorder - VCR Combination
If you are confused about whether to replace that aging VCR with a DVD recorder, now may be the time with the Samsung VR375 DVD Recorder/VCR combo. The VR375 records to all five recordable formats DVD-R/DVD-RW/DVD+R/+RW and DVD-RAM, and has composite, and iLink video inputs. In addition, on the DVD playback side, the VR375 can play back Divx files and has both component and HDMI video outputs and features 720p/1080i/1080p upscaling via the HDMI output. Of course the VR375 can still record and play back VHS tapes. However, keep in mind that to record television programs, you need to use an external tuner, such as cable or satellite box.