I have found a few posts dealing with 'copy protected' error here, but the discussions go so deep into other issues, I can't determine if there is a resolution.
I have a new Sony DVD recorder that gives 'You cannot record Copy protected content' error when recording not only Premium Movie channels, but also, IFC, FoxReality, FX. I don't have this error on my other (Older) Sony or Magnavox recorders. Is there ANYTHING I can do to eliminate this error, or that Comcast support can do ? Any reset or setting, anything? I have tried Comcast forums but their 'experts' immediately imply I'm trying to violate the copyright or something , but I'm just trying to record the stations I'm paying for (without purchasing their DVR's).

Any suggestions? Any brands better at handline erroneous error than Sony?
Thanks

Any suggestions? Any brands better at handline erroneous error than Sony?Panasonics are probably the best - they won't pick up a CP signal that isn't actually there. Sony's are without a doubt the worst. Toshiba's were always traditionally not far behind, but other brands also exhibit the problem nowadays.

It's not really a problem with the Magnavox H2160A HDD/DVD recorder, either - but if you're dependent on the QAM tuner, the Panasonic's is generally more reliable (other than that one thing, the Magnavox is probably more dependable - although it does have a "finalization" bug that can be worked around, which you can read up on in the Maggie threads).

There's nothing Comcast can do - it's the recorder.

If you decide to keep the Sony, the only thing you can do is get a "video filter", which will cost you no less than $100.00.

+1
Either the Magnavox 2160A (see first Sticky thread at the top of this forum) or a tunerless Panasonic EA-18, both of which are probably only available mail order.
If you can't return your Sony a filter may be your cheapest route, a filter with your Sony would also make it usable. Here's (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1008164) a thread talking about filters. Also, if you're interested in recording Wide Screen 16:9 and your STB only outputs letterboxed WS over S-video or composite, you may want to look into a component to S-video/composite converter. It will not only remove CP but also give you much better looking WS copies. I think current Sonys don't have S-video:confused: but composite would be OK.
Whatever you do, don't be tempted by the EZ-48v combo from Panasonic, it's quite buggy, the easier to find EZ-28 should be OK too but just costs more than the EA-18 and includes a digital tuner, which it doesn't sound like you need only recording from a STB. I'm a fan of Panasonics for their 2-3 hr recording speed quality which retains full D1 resolution.

Thank you!

Thanks you guys!