DVD recorder/VCR combos - For those that are replacing a VCR and want a DVD recorder, this 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, TV 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.
NOTE: Many manufacturers have stopped making new DVD recorders and DVD Recorder/VCR Combos. Some that still do have kept the same models for two or more years. Also, some of the units on the following list may be officially discontinued, but may still be available at local retailers, or from third party sources, such as eBay.
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. 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.
Also available, the Toshiba DVR670, which adds a built-in tuner (Compare Prices on the DVR670).
