Any one has this DVD recorder.
I ordered mine at BB and they did not had it in stock so they gave me a pickup date.
I have the samsung R-135 and I am going to return it as I feel that its not a great buy and ther eis already samsungr-140 in the market which BB does not have.

This LG model is a Progressive-Scan Multiformat DVD-R/-RW/+R/+R DL/+RW/RAM Recorder.

14-in-2 media reader supports a wide range of memory cards, so you can display photos on your TV

does have the hdmi upconversion

any other good dvd recorders
my buget is around 200 bucks

I've tried both of the recorders you mentioned. Here's my experience with both units:

First I bought the Samsung DVD-R135 (and still have it). I have it hooked up via HDMI for upscaling and it looks great. It plays all of my burned DVD media (DVD-R DVD+R and DVD+R DL) perfectly. There is ONE nagging problem with it if you use it via HDMI but want 5.1 audio through the digital outputs. The message "HDMI Audio Not Supported" pops up every time the audio stream changes during playback. It goes off after about 3 seconds, but it's annoying. If you play a commercial DVD, for example, the message will pop up every time a preview comes on before the movie and then once the movie starts playing it'll go off for good. The only way to avoid it is to change from Bitstream to PCM in the audio menu but then you lose 5.1 via the digital outputs. Otherwise, it is a great unit and I'd highly recommend it.

Out of curiosity, I bought the LG model you listed from Best Buy to see how it would compare. My thinking was that it would perhaps be just as good as the Sammy but without that annoying message. Well, I was wrong and right! Though there is no annoying message on the LG, it couldn't even read the first DVD-R I put in the unit! The Sammy had no problems with any of the media I threw at it, but the LG struggled. So if you plan on playing DIVX/XVID files on it or using quite a bit of burned DVD's on it, I'd be wary.

In my continued search, I also tried the Toshiba D-VR5 just today. Well, I'm sorry to report that it is going back as well. No annoying message and it played my media just fine. HOWEVER, Xvid and Divx files are not in the correct aspect ratio. For example, an XVID file I played on both the Sammy and LG filled most of my widescreen TV, but when I play it on the Toshiba, it gets squeezed much more narrow. I tried changing the TV type in the menu settings but that didn't help. And it's not the TV because the DVD player is outputting at 720p. So it's going back as well.

I've decided just to keep the Samsung unit and live with the annoying message which turns out to be not so annoying now that I've tried a couple of other units. I'm still hoping for a firmware upgrade though because one of Sammy's other DVD models did indeed get an update for this very issue. All attempts at getting a response from them via e-mail have failed, however.

Anyway, good luck!

I have had good luck with my LG DR1F9H and I like it. I use the units HDMI out to the HDMI in of my Westinghouse LVM-37w3 1080p (37" LCD) monitor. Great DVD picture quality, good sound, the card reader works with the SD cards I have.

The SDTV (NTSC) cable-ready tuner provides good PQ from my standard analog cable service considering thats going to a high resolution screen.

I like the fact it will output 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i from the HDMI port. The other ports worked well (composite 480i/p & component 720p) when I tested them.

As far as it having issues reading some of the other formats I have not tested them enough yet to notice any problems.

The recorder has worked well, and starts recording quickly if you find yourself needing to do so.

I have not regretted purchasing it, and it will be my main DVD player until I add a BD/HD DVD player once the market has matured. :cool:

I bought one today from BB and none of my DVD's will play although they plan on the other DVD players I own. It gives me a message about "Incorrect Region Code", what does this mean? Does it have to do with my setup? I am connecting it to a Toshiba 37HL66 - flat planel LCD.

Any help is appreciated.

The player does now support the Region Code of your DVDs. I'm guessing you're in Region 1 (North America) and you got a Region 2 (Europe) player/recorder.

Information about Region Codes from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DVD_region_code

Since you bought your recorder at BB in CA, it could be that the DVDs that won't play were made for some other region?

Where did you get the DVDs that won't play?

Except he says his DVDs play on his other players. I'm assuming his DVDs are Region 1.

All my DVD's were purchased in the US and they play just fine on both my DVD players. I checked the back of the LG unit and it has the globe logo with a 1 in it which means it should play my DVD's just fine. I called LG and they said it may be a bad batch or unit shipped to the wrong vendor.....who knows. I will return to BB tomorrow for a new unit and bring a DVD with me. Hopefully this will work, seems like a great unit for the price.

Try to record off of HBO or IFC.
You may be surprised at what the LG tells you. I was. :eek:
I don't have that problem with the samsung R-135.

For region related "problems/limitations" of this particular unit, you can try this 'toggle'...and see if the "problems/limitations" go away......................

1. Power the unit on normally with no disk, and do not put one in for this 'toggle' procedure.
2. Using the factory remote control press the 'HOME' button to open up the main menu.
3. Use your arrow keys to select 'SETUP' and press the 'ENTER' button.
4. Now that your in the setup menu, arrow down to the 'padlock picture' and leave it highlighted, do not enter into the padlock sub-menu.
5. With the 'padlock picture' still highlighted press the digit '0' (zero) on the remote's number pad seven times, now a pop-up menu will come up on the tv screen asking you to 'OK' (toggle-on) a sub-feature (it will say what it is). Select 'OK' and your done, exit the menu settings normally. Repeating this procedure will allow you back into the sub-feature menu to toggle-off the sub-feature if one desires to do so.

This is an undocumented sub-feature of this model, so don't bother looking through the manual to read about it. Post if it works for you. You don't need to provide details other then 'it worked' or 'it did not work'. I will not provide specific information as to what this 'toggle' does, you should be able to figure out what this does on your own by following this procedure and deciding wether to leave the feature on or off.

Try to record off of HBO or IFC.
You may be surprised at what the LG tells you. I was. :eek:
I don't have that problem with the samsung R-135.
uh? can you elaborate on this so ppl know what the hack you are talking about?

uh? can you elaborate on this so ppl know what the hack you are talking about?
No "hack", a fact. At least thats what LG told me after I found the problem. LG products do not copy anything it finds protected.
So you can not copy anything off of a paid channel.
Try it.

No "hack", a fact. At least thats what LG told me after I found the problem. LG products do not copy anything it finds protected.
So you can not copy anything off of a paid channel.
Try it.
Thanks for the clarification. I can't try b/c I don't own one. But many others (inc. myself) can benefit from this info so we know if we should avoid buying LG.

Thanks for the tips, I returned it to BB and the new one works just fine. Another question, any recommendations for an HDMI cable that doesn't cost $100?

Thanks for the tips, I returned it to BB and the new one works just fine. Another question, any recommendations for an HDMI cable that doesn't cost $100?
One of the AVS Forum Alliance Members, monoprice.com.
Any one of their cables. :)

I'll second that. I just got an HDMI cable from them, for $3.80 (the cheapest one they had). Works just fine.

Thanks, what does AWG mean when I am looking at there HDMI cables?

American Wire Gauge (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge)

sorry i asked

Several people have mentioned this hack does not work. I could not get it to work either. However, there is bootable disk that can be used (I was successful with it).

http://www.videohelp.com/dvdhacks.php?dvdplayer=DR1F9H&hits=50&Search=Search




For region related "problems/limitations" of this particular unit, you can try this 'toggle'...and see if the "problems/limitations" go away......................

1. Power the unit on normally with no disk, and do not put one in for this 'toggle' procedure.
2. Using the factory remote control press the 'HOME' button to open up the main menu.
3. Use your arrow keys to select 'SETUP' and press the 'ENTER' button.
4. Now that your in the setup menu, arrow down to the 'padlock picture' and leave it highlighted, do not enter into the padlock sub-menu.
5. With the 'padlock picture' still highlighted press the digit '0' (zero) on the remote's number pad seven times, now a pop-up menu will come up on the tv screen asking you to 'OK' (toggle-on) a sub-feature (it will say what it is). Select 'OK' and your done, exit the menu settings normally. Repeating this procedure will allow you back into the sub-feature menu to toggle-off the sub-feature if one desires to do so.

This is an undocumented sub-feature of this model, so don't bother looking through the manual to read about it. Post if it works for you. You don't need to provide details other then 'it worked' or 'it did not work'. I will not provide specific information as to what this 'toggle' does, you should be able to figure out what this does on your own by following this procedure and deciding wether to leave the feature on or off.

So is there a verdict on this machine? I bought one, but have not tried to record yet. I am not blown away by the picture quality, but maybe I am expecting too much.

So is there a verdict on this machine? I bought one, but have not tried to record yet. I am not blown away by the picture quality, but maybe I am expecting too much.
IMHO it sucks!!! Try recording a pay channel. :eek: Nevermind just looking at a DVD with divx files on it, tell me if it locks up on you.
But you may like. :rolleyes:

IMHO it sucks!!! Try recording a pay channel. :eek: Nevermind just looking at a DVD with divx files on it, tell me if it locks up on you.
But you may like. :rolleyes:

The only things I really ever record are sporting events, so I am not overly worried about recording premium content, although the option would be nice. I am more concerned about getting great picture quality while still being able to record.

Should I just buy a basic recorder then and a stand-alone upconvert DVD player?

The only things I really ever record are sporting events, so I am not overly worried about recording premium content, although the option would be nice. I am more concerned about getting great picture quality while still being able to record.

Should I just buy a basic recorder then and a stand-alone upconvert DVD player?
I guess you don't record any ppv sporting events, I would guess you could run in to the same problem.
I went on to a SAMSUNG DVD-R135. Which I find to be great DVD recorder. The only reason I'm returning it is it doesn't support Dual Layer or + media. For me why be limited. But that isn't a fault with the player, that was me listening to a BB salesman. :(
But no lock-ups or any problems with what it can recorded or playback of any recoding on other players. :)
So I'm looking at SAMSUNG DVD-R145.
Good luck.

But no lock-ups or any problems with what it can recorded or playback of any recoding on other players. :)
So I'm looking at SAMSUNG DVD-R145.
Good luck.

I read in this forum that the 135 didn't have the copy protection, but the 145 did. SOmething about Samsung not having a agreement with Macrovision when it came out (or something like that). I haven't read about anyone with the 145 who was able to record ppv (although I haven't looked too hard).

How do people feel the picture quality stacks up against other upconvert players?

I had bought this LG, but ended up returning it. I subscribe to HBO and Showtime and it wouldn't let me record either of those channels, and I didn't want to spend the extra $80 or so to get a device that would allow recording. Also, it would freeze up occasionally and I had to pull the plug to reset it. Right now I'm using an inexpensive Lite-On which does a good job. Only drawback is there is no S Video connection. I use the composite audio/video connections. It does record in Dolby digital and records the premium channels. One thing I will say is the LG did have really good PQ.

I've had the LG for almost 3 months and I've never known about the Samsung model, which is apparently better. I'm getting too many read errors and when it does happen, I can't even eject the disc. It's a great recorder, but the DivX playback is wary indeed. Question is if I should go to BB and exchange it for the Samsung R135 or not?

I've had the LG for almost 3 months and I've never known about the Samsung model, which is apparently better. I'm getting too many read errors and when it does happen, I can't even eject the disc. It's a great recorder, but the DivX playback is wary indeed. Question is if I should go to BB and exchange it for the Samsung R135 or not?
But its 3 months old... :confused: They only have a 30 day return policy (http://www.bestbuy.com/site//olspage.jsp?type=page&categoryId=pcmcat23800050001&contentId=1117177044087&id=cat12098). :confused:

I actually own the receit and the warranty so I'm fine...

By the way, is the R135 only records DVD-R or it can also record on DVD+R?

Because BB does not own R145.

What type of recording media have you used when the copy protection block occurred? The manual states the following:

"Some video material is copy-once protected: If you want to record copy-once protected material to DVD, you must use a VR mode DVD-RW disc compatible with CPRM Ver. 1.1."

A little further in the manual it states:

"Video that is 'copy-once only' can only be recorded using DVD-RW disc in VR mode or DVD-RAM disc with CPRM (see below)."

"CPRM is a copy protection system (with scramble system) only allowing the recording of 'copy once' broadcast programs. CPRM stands for Content Protection for Recordable Media......"

I have yet to have any copy protection blocks occur to date with this player using the recommended DVD media, you might have to look a little harder for these DVD's that meet the spec's depending on where you live. I found them at Walmart. I am not claiming there might or might not be a copy problem related to copy protection, but that using the recommended DVD media has worked great for my recording needs.

The manual explains that it will not record copy-once protected material with: DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD+R(Double Layer), or DVD+RW. :mad: These formats will record unprotected material just fine, that is what most of the current broadcast is.

I have used both DVD-RW and DVD-RAM in VR (Video Recording) mode without problems so far :) .....knock on wood. Also I use the HDMI out to my the HDMI in on my 1080p LCD, the recording quality is excellent and very fast when I hit record at a moments notice. The recorder is able to be set 'region free' :cool: or you can lock it to a region if need be (at least mine is, I purchased it in Spring of 2006, maybe they have disabled this feature now, I don't know).

IF, and I mean IF your recording problems are due to the use of incorrect DVD media not being CPRM compatable, don't blame the recorder. Would you also be upset if you put diesel fuel into your gasoline powered automobile only to find out it won't run? :rolleyes:

I have been debating between the two. I own a Panasonic ES25 which does not play divx, xvid, so I was goign to return it and buy either the samsung 135 or the lg Dr1f9h. I was set on the LG due to the DVD-RAM writing capability but looks like I will try Samsung first.

What type of recording media have you used when the copy protection block occurred? The manual states the following:

"Some video material is copy-once protected: If you want to record copy-once protected material to DVD, you must use a VR mode DVD-RW disc compatible with CPRM Ver. 1.1."
It's call LG = copyright police, so don't was your money on it.
Why bother if other DVD recorder can do it with out going nuts?

What type of recording media have you used when the copy protection block occurred? The manual states the following:

"Some video material is copy-once protected: If you want to record copy-once protected material to DVD, you must use a VR mode DVD-RW disc compatible with CPRM Ver. 1.1."
It's call LG = copyright police.
Why bother if other DVD recorder can do it with out going nuts?
I have yet to have any copy protection blocks occur to date with this player using the recommended DVD media, you might have to look a little harder for these DVD's that meet the spec's depending on where you live. I found them at Walmart. I am not claiming there might or might not be a copy problem related to copy protection, but that using the recommended DVD media has worked great for my recording needs.

The manual explains that it will not record copy-once protected material with: DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD+R(Double Layer), or DVD+RW. :mad: These formats will record unprotected material just fine, that is what most of the current broadcast is.

I have used both DVD-RW and DVD-RAM in VR (Video Recording) mode without problems so far :) .....knock on wood. Also I use the HDMI out to my the HDMI in on my 1080p LCD, the recording quality is excellent and very fast when I hit record at a moments notice. The recorder is able to be set 'region free' :cool: or you can lock it to a region if need be (at least mine is, I purchased it in Spring of 2006, maybe they have disabled this feature now, I don't know).

IF, and I mean IF your recording problems are due to the use of incorrect DVD media not being CPRM compatable, don't blame the recorder. Would you also be upset if you put diesel fuel into your gasoline powered automobile only to find out it won't run? :rolleyes:
I'll have you know the stuff off my DVR that LG didn't record the Samsung did with out a problem. No special disc or modes. :)

I've only had my LG for 2-days. I'm happy to report that the HDMI works fine with my Pioneer 72 receiver. So far, I've got some mixed opinions about it though. I think the picture quality is pretty good. It's a little better than my Sony GX300 recorder. However, the Sony worked flawlessly from day one. Never had a problem with it for a year & a half, then it just up & died on me. It would turn on, but it wouldn't read any DVD's or CD's anymore. Then it gave some error code that the manual says needs to be checked out by a technician. Well, I figure it's cheaper to buy a new one than fix that one. Plus I figure the newer DVD-recorders are better.

Anyway, the LG played all of my discs that I had recorded off of the Sony. So I was happy about that. I also wanted to make sure that a recorded disc from the LG would play on my Sony DVD player in the bedroom. It did. But I went to erase a disc(I use DVD-RW's in VR mode for all recordings), I had trouble trying to record on it again. It said the disc was protected when it was not. I reformatted the disc a couple of times then it worked again. Then, it tried to tell me that I was trying to record copyrighted material when it recorded the same channel(from the dish) earlier with no problems during some testing. It did this for a little while then started recording again. I set the timer tonight to record a show on TBS & it worked. So I'm happy it worked, but I hope I don't have any more of the problems I had earlier. I'm not using the tuner in my DVD-R as I am recording everything from the dish. I just connected my satellite-receiver to the LG via the RCA-jacks. I am kinda bummed about that b/c my Sony at least had S-video inputs.

I did have one more hang up the other day. I was trying to play the Cars DVD for my kids the other day and when I hit the skip button to bypass the endless amount of previews, it just froze. I then held the power button down for 5-seconds to reset it. After doing this a couple of times I said screw it and watched all the previews & it worked just fine. I haven't watch a movie since then so I don't know if this is going to be a recurring problem. If it is, I'll take it back. I hope not though. I'll try another movie tomorrow & try skipping past the previews.

I think I'll keep it for a week & run it through a bunch more tests. If I find it acceptable it'll stay. If these quirks show up too much, it's back to BB. I'll let ya'll know how it works out. Here's a break down of what I like & don't like so far:

Pros:
+ has HDMI with upconvert to 1080i(looks pretty good too)
+ plays my old DVD-RW discs
+ discs recorded on LG play in dvd player in bedroom

Cons:
- had problems recording on a RW-disc after deleting it's contents
- had copyright issues trying to record from the satellite(though it's only happened once so far and has worked since then)
- skipping previews on Cars dvd froze the player(need to test this one with more discs)

So for me, the jury is still out. I hope it works out b/c I'd really hate to take the darn thing out of the entertainment center, take it back, try another DVD-R, & then have a different set of issues arise. That would just be frustrating. Although I could just get another Sony, it won't upconvert. Oh well. I hope someone will find some of this information useful.


James

I did have one more hang up the other day. I was trying to play the Cars DVD for my kids the other day and when I hit the skip button to bypass the endless amount of previews, it just froze. I then held the power button down for 5-seconds to reset it. After doing this a couple of times I said screw it and watched all the previews & it worked just fine. I haven't watch a movie since then so I don't know if this is going to be a recurring problem. If it is, I'll take it back. I hope not though. I'll try another movie tomorrow & try skipping past the previews.
You probably won't be able to skip any Warning or preview stuff on most commercial discs. I notice that too when I try to skip stuff on my Pio 640...it just won't FF or skip and displays a message that "This operation is prohibited by this disc." It's built into the DVD. I can understand they want to force you to read the FBI warning, but then you also have to watch their "advertisements"! :(

Sometimes it is easier to hit the "top menu" or disc "menu" button on the remote. This should take you right to the main menu for the featured movie.

Hey all, brand new newb here... been lurking for a while, thanks for everything I have learned.

Just got the Dr1f9h at BB for $149.00 list, was $50.00 less than the Sony DVD-R and did upconversion, so I thought what the heck...

I have only recorded about 2 minutes of a show on HBO, and it worked for me. Also, upconverting looked great. Granted, first upconverting DVD player I have ever owned.

Have only played a couple of DVDs I made on my PC, they worked great. Also DIVX worked fine for me on the only one I had.

Not thrilled about the physical looks of it, or the layout of the menus and such, but very happy with the upconverted DVD picture on my 55" Sony.



Jury still out for me, but I thought it was a pretty good deal money wise...

Sometimes it is easier to hit the "top menu" or disc "menu" button on the remote. This should take you right to the main menu for the featured movie.
On my Pio 640, no button works to skip the front-matter...FF, REW, Disc Nav, Menu all bring up a "prohibited" message. Even the Home Menu shows most functions unavailable (greyed out) while the front-matter is playing! (Tested on "Erin Brokovich.") :mad:

This reason alone is enough to drive people to rip the main movie and burn it to another disc.

Well, I played with it some more today and I've got good news to report. All of the quirks that happened the other day when I first fired it up have stopped. I tried a couple of test recordings today & it worked fine. I also skipped past the plethora of previews on the Cars dvd today with no problem. But I've only had it for 3-days now. So I'll report back if the issues creep back into play.

Perhaps my player just need to warm up or something(?????????) but like I said, I'm glad it's working fine now.

I do like the upconvert. Star Wars Episode III looked alot sharper than on the old recorder. I also like the thumbnails for the dvd content lists.

Wicked96SS,

I bought mine from BB too with the same deal. It was too good to not give it a try!!! I'm not thrilled with it's looks either. But as long as it works properly, I'll be able to overlook it's appearance. I've got a 51" Sony HD-RPTV & I'm quite pleased with the picture quality too. Glad to hear you'r works just fine.

jbrillo,

Glad to hear things are working out for you! It was too good of a deal to pass up... Hopefully it doesnt' turn into a "you get what you pay for" lesson! So far I am very happy with it.

Had more of a chance to play with it last night. Here are some observations:

1. First Season Sopranos looked terrible upconverted, but that is because it looked even worse normally I guess. I never watched the Sopranos Season 1 DVDs on a large screen before, so I am more than willing to chalk it up to the disks itself.

2. Watched some scenes from other DVDs on it that looked TERRIFIC! Was very impressed with how it looked (Incredibles, Matrix, Sin City). I could tell the difference with these between 480i and 1080i. It was dramatic! So much so even my wife saw the difference and was impressed! She usually just rolls her eyes when I make her look at stuff like this and tell me if she sees any difference!

3. I like the DV input. Worked very simply and was easy to get videos off our digital camcorders relatively easily. Not sure how much I am going to use it though, as I generally like to add menus and credits and do some editing, and that is just easier on the PC... but would be great to back up the DV tapes or quick and dirty DVDs...

Some things I don't care for so much:

1. I really wish that there was a way to switch the resolution while staying on the DVD instead of going back to the AV inputs, or whatever was last selected. Granted, I can kinda understand why that might be an issue, just would be nice for demonstration.

2. I am dreaming here, I know... wish there was a component in and an optical in. yeah yeah yeah... I know... I can wish can't I? Even if it converted it down to stereo for the sound, and converted down any HD video to 480, I would think it would make a better picture than the analog composit cables. Don't know for sure, but that would be my theory. Probably also make it easier to dub stuff you shouldn't...

Still messing around with it, and need to read the manual more, but so far I like it.

Has anyone tried connecting this LG model via component? And if so, does the upconversion functionality work through this? Or only through HDMI connection?

My HDTV only has one HDMI connector and is being utilized for the DVR, so my next option is the coponent..

Thx!
Joe

No, upconversion (at least to 1080i, but I believe any upconversion) doesn't work through component cables. My understanding about this is because of some sort of copy protection. I believe that the copy protection or encryption is called HDCP. And I believe that some older TVs don't support that over the HDMI... but, then again, I really don't know, just going off bits and pieces of what I read.

I can confirm, however, that this unit won't upconvert over the component either way.

I use this HDMI switch... it works very well for me.

I tried to post a link, but no can do until 5 posts... it's the one on Monoprice that is a 5x1 swithc with equalizer... It was $112 from monoprice, but might find one on Ebay.

A post I made in another thread may be of interest re: upconverting via Component? (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?goto=lastpost&t=772970)

A post I made in another thread may be of interest re: upconverting via Component?

Very very interesting! I wonder if there is a similar hack for the DR1F9H? Off I go to search!

Thanks!

Any updates if the Dr1f9h can upconvert via component? Or if there is a hack available to make that happen?

I wasn't able to find anything on my brief search around the net... would be very intersted to know if there is one. I am thinking, from what I have read only, that LG really doesn't have "hidden features" like that... but then again, I don't know for sure.

Wicked96SS - I posted a general thread, but wanted to ask you if you have recorded any pics from the SD/Memory Card slot to a disc on the LG? I would be curious to hear how easy this works.

I am consiering buying the LG DR1F9H, Samsung R-135 or the Panny ES25S.

Thx!
Joe

joebrandon1977, No, I have not tried that yet... I will try it when I get home... I have about 200 pictures already from my family trip to PA!!

I'll post my results when I get home.

I have not tried the pic/memory card slot.

But I am happy to reports that it been almost a week now & I have not experienced any of the quirks previously mentioned. Thank goodness. So for now, it looks like the LG will continue to make it's home in my entertainment center. If any thing happens between now & when my 30-day return period is up, I'll be sure to report. It's been working well & I'm pleased with the pic quality & it's overall operation. Obviously the PQ is not as good as an actual HD show, but I recorded some HD NFL games the other day & I have to say that the PQ was definitely better than when I'd record games on the old dvd-r.

I'll try to play with some of the other features sometime this week when I'm off.

Wicked96SS - had a chance to try the SD slot and record to a DVD?

No chance as of yet, sorry... still away on vacation. Will be home tomorrow and give it a shot.

DVD Recorder newbie here. Just got the DR1F9H and hooked the played itself into my Pio 4270 via HDMI and use a coaxial digital wire to output the audio thru my Onkyo receiver. That all works fine and good so no problems to date there. My inexperience comes in as to how to hook up my Explorerer 8300HD STB to the LG. I'm not going to be a ton of recording since the 8300 is a DVR. However, there are shows that I might like to record every now and then so would it be better just to use the front compentent jacks (both the LG and the 8300 have them) to record? Thanks

hoggan17,

I have my satellite box plugged into the Video1 jack at the back of the recorder via composite cables. It records just fine. Give it a try. It should work with no problem.

I am happy with my LG DVR but I want to record on one station while watching another. I have Dish Network Satellite and according to a lady at LG, this is not possible.

Can anyone help me out, or is she correct?

Thanks!!

I am happy with my LG DVR but I want to record on one station while watching another. I have Dish Network Satellite and according to a lady at LG, this is not possible.

Can anyone help me out, or is she correct?

Thanks!!
She is correct, for what want to do you need a DVR from dish.

Thanks for the quick response. Not what I was hoping to hear, but what I expected. Thanks again!

carrerajh

Its been about a month and a half now, so I figured I'd see if there have been any techno updates on the search for "hacks" on the LG DR1f9h.

My two issues are:

1) The ability to record an HBO program off my sat withuout getting the Copyright Protect error

2) The ability to upconvert (upvert) using component. My HD TV doesn't have HDMI

Any luck???

I had my DR1F9H for exactly 33 days. On the 33rd day I get this error message, "Unknown disc, please check disc again". How great is this? I received the message on a disc that played flawlessly on more than one occasion before this. LG is sending me shipping labels to send the unit to them. Needless to say, I'm completely disappointed.

Hardly a reason to send it back! This has happened a few times on 2 out of 3 recorders I own. You might just need to clean the disc.

Its been about a month and a half now, so I figured I'd see if there have been any techno updates on the search for "hacks" on the LG DR1f9h.

My two issues are:

1) The ability to record an HBO program off my sat withuout getting the Copyright Protect error

2) The ability to upconvert (upvert) using component. My HD TV doesn't have HDMI

Any luck???

Sorry, just bumping.

I did clean the disc. I used brand new discs again and again as well. I tried the cleaner disc too. Nothing worked, so LG sent me a return label to get it looked at.

just bought this model, plan on using mostly dvd -rw in video mode for playback on most dvd players......

love the marker feature where i can set up to 6 on each disc but they fade away after i play that session. Any way i can get them to stay permanently? Nothing is said about this feature in the manual.

Sorry, just bumping.
Its been about a month and a half now, so I figured I'd see if there have been any techno updates on the search for "hacks" on the LG DR1f9h.

My two issues are:

1) The ability to record an HBO program off my sat withuout getting the Copyright Protect error

2) The ability to upconvert (upvert) using component. My HD TV doesn't have HDMI

Any luck???

No hacks that I know of, BUT -- for recording HBO and other premium copy-protected channels, I use DVD-RAM disks, and they've always worked flawlessly. The LG DR1f9h manual also suggests using DVD-R's in VR mode, but that has never worked for me.

On the upconvert issue, as I understand the physics, you'll never be able to use component cables since they are analog connections and upconverting requires digital signal processing. Unless there is some kind of buried DAC circuitry in the recorder (which apparently some have), HDMI cabling is the only way to get the upconverted signal to the picture screen. But some more knowledgeable person might have a better take on this. :confused:
.

No hacks that I know of, BUT -- for recording HBO and other premium copy-protected channels, I use DVD-RAM disks, and they've always worked flawlessly. The LG DR1f9h manual also suggests using DVD-R's in VR mode, but that has never worked for me.

On the upconvert issue, as I understand the physics, you'll never be able to use component cables since they are analog connections and upconverting requires digital signal processing. Unless there is some kind of buried DAC circuitry in the recorder (which apparently some have), HDMI cabling is the only way to get the upconverted signal to the picture screen. But some more knowledgeable person might have a better take on this. :confused:
.

HB, thanks for the response. I have a "Recording for Dummies" question. Is a DVD-RAM a one-use disk? or can I record an HBO program, watch it, erase it, and then record on it again?

HB, thanks for the response. I have a "Recording for Dummies" question. Is a DVD-RAM a one-use disk? or can I record an HBO program, watch it, erase it, and then record on it again?DVD-RAM is rewritable by nature, and they're generally more durable and longer lasting than DVD-/+RW. The trade-off is that most standard DVD players can't play them. However since you're recording HBO, which has copy protection, you wouldn't be able to play it in another player or recorder anyway no matter what type of media you use.

I use DVD-RAM for casual recording. If I want to archive something I still use DVD-RAM, but I then transfer it to my computer, edit out the commercials, give it nice menus, and burn it to DVD-R. With the right tools (Toast 8 and MPEG Streamclip on the Mac) this can be accomplished without re-encoding or any loss of quality.

On the upconvert issue, as I understand the physics, you'll never be able to use component cables since they are analog connections and upconverting requires digital signal processing. Unless there is some kind of buried DAC circuitry in the recorder (which apparently some have), HDMI cabling is the only way to get the upconverted signal to the picture screen. But some more knowledgeable person might have a better take on this. :confused:
.
Component cables/connections can handle any TV scan format, from 480i to 1080p. They were designed after the traditional 480i connections just to handle the "new" progressive signals.

There are some DVD players that can upconvert via Component, and some have hacks that make them work that way.

If you Google "upconvert over Component," you might find some of the threads that discuss the hacks for various models.

If I want to archive something I still use DVD-RAM, but I then transfer it to my computer, edit out the commercials, give it nice menus, and burn it to DVD-R. With the right tools (Toast 8 and MPEG Streamclip on the Mac) this can be accomplished without re-encoding or any loss of quality.

That's something I've been thinking about doing. Can anyone suggest tools for doing that with Windows software? Thanks,
.

DVD-RAM is rewritable by nature, and they're generally more durable and longer lasting than DVD-/+RW. The trade-off is that most standard DVD players can't play them. However since you're recording HBO, which has copy protection, you wouldn't be able to play it in another player or recorder anyway no matter what type of media you use.

I use DVD-RAM for casual recording. If I want to archive something I still use DVD-RAM, but I then transfer it to my computer, edit out the commercials, give it nice menus, and burn it to DVD-R. With the right tools (Toast 8 and MPEG Streamclip on the Mac) this can be accomplished without re-encoding or any loss of quality.

Well, here's another problem. I went out and bought a package of Memorex DVD-RAM. When I put one in, the LG couldn't read it and went to the format option. After a 2 minute format, it still couldn't read it. I googled LG and Memorex and read a user forum post that said something to the effect that LG and Memores are incompatable. So, I went out and bought a package of Panasonic DVD-RAM. Same thing. This is getting ridiculous. Any sugesstions?

Thanks.

Well, here's another problem. I went out and bought a package of Memorex DVD-RAM. When I put one in, the LG couldn't read it and went to the format option. After a 2 minute format, it still couldn't read it. I googled LG and Memorex and read a user forum post that said something to the effect that LG and Memores are incompatable. So, I went out and bought a package of Panasonic DVD-RAM. Same thing. This is getting ridiculous. Any sugesstions?

Thanks.I'm not sure what to tell you. I use Memorex DVD-RAM without problems. I had one bad disc that had playback problems, and Memorex replaced it free of charge.

This is getting ridiculous. Any sugesstions?

Thanks.

The only brand of DVD-RAM I've ever tried in my LG is Verbatim, and as I mentioned above, they have always worked perfectly.

The manual does have a page listing approved blank media, but since media brands outsource to different OEMs all the time, no telling how accurate that listing is.

I have had this DR1F9H for more than 3 months and it has been working just fine.
However lately I am not able to play some of the newer DVDs like Casino Royal,
Open Season etc. on my DVD player. These are new DVDs with no scratches.
I tried exchanging the DVDs but I still cannot play them.

Any clue whats going on.

Topping, hopefully someone has turned up a hack for the upconvert.

I just wanted to chime in here to say I'm having the same problems after about six months with the LG. It will not play any DVDs now - new or old.

I tried cleaning the lens, but to no avail.

Anybody have any luck with fixing this issue?

I sent mine back under full warranty, because it didn't play any dvds. It was returned in less than two weeks. I haven't had any problems since it's return.

I have had this DR1F9H for more than 3 months and it has been working just fine.
However lately I am not able to play some of the newer DVDs like Casino Royal,
Open Season etc. on my DVD player. These are new DVDs with no scratches.
I tried exchanging the DVDs but I still cannot play them.

Any clue whats going on.
Based on the date of your post, it appears you might have the "DST Bug" (more info here) (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=846731).

Solution for you (and others) might be setting your clock manually and TURNING DST OFF.

The owners manual refers to using DVD-RW disc that use a VR mode and compatible with CPRM Ver. 1.1 to record Copy-once protected material. Can anyone make heads or tails out of this and if I use these disks, can I record movies from IFC? Thanks, Robert

What type of recording media have you used when the copy protection block occurred? The manual states the following:

"Some video material is copy-once protected: If you want to record copy-once protected material to DVD, you must use a VR mode DVD-RW disc compatible with CPRM Ver. 1.1."

A little further in the manual it states:

"Video that is 'copy-once only' can only be recorded using DVD-RW disc in VR mode or DVD-RAM disc with CPRM (see below)."

"CPRM is a copy protection system (with scramble system) only allowing the recording of 'copy once' broadcast programs. CPRM stands for Content Protection for Recordable Media......"

I have yet to have any copy protection blocks occur to date with this player using the recommended DVD media, you might have to look a little harder for these DVD's that meet the spec's depending on where you live. I found them at Walmart. I am not claiming there might or might not be a copy problem related to copy protection, but that using the recommended DVD media has worked great for my recording needs.

The manual explains that it will not record copy-once protected material with: DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD+R(Double Layer), or DVD+RW. :mad: These formats will record unprotected material just fine, that is what most of the current broadcast is.

I have used both DVD-RW and DVD-RAM in VR (Video Recording) mode without problems so far :) .....knock on wood. Also I use the HDMI out to my the HDMI in on my 1080p LCD, the recording quality is excellent and very fast when I hit record at a moments notice. The recorder is able to be set 'region free' :cool: or you can lock it to a region if need be (at least mine is, I purchased it in Spring of 2006, maybe they have disabled this feature now, I don't know).

IF, and I mean IF your recording problems are due to the use of incorrect DVD media not being CPRM compatable, don't blame the recorder. Would you also be upset if you put diesel fuel into your gasoline powered automobile only to find out it won't run? :rolleyes:
Have you tried to record from a pay site such as HBO or IFC with this media? I tried your metod and failed with DVD-RW media but seem to be successful with DVD-RAM. I am presently recording a movie from IFC that was on my DVR and it seems to be working. I am also wondering if any changes were made since Aug. 2006. I have learned that Region Free Hacks post 8/06 require a zip file and CD burned. I am wondering if this is responsible for my obstacles. Robert

Not sure if this has been mentioned but Consumer Reports gave it a very favorable review.

Its not getting one from me. Now its starting to be very capricious as to when it actually want to record. Right now its 35% yes / 65% sorry, no dice.

Add the HBO issue, the "don't like that DVD", the lack of upconvert over component and its been a waste of money.:mad:

Its not getting one from me. Now its starting to be very capricious as to when it actually want to record. Right now its 35% yes / 65% sorry, no dice.

Add the HBO issue, the "don't like that DVD", the lack of upconvert over component and its been a waste of money.:mad:
See this post for something to try (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=10802194&postcount=77)...very easy to do and it might help?

wabjxo, I had tried that already. When I did it, the first recording effort went through, but it just went back to its old tricks. Again, its a hit or miss thing which makes it virtually unusable. Ive started to double track, using an old vcr along with the LG for the things I really don't want to miss. The picture stinks, but at least I'm not getting nada.

Well, I've finally given up. This officially a POS in my book. DW was dying to see a movie, but I convinced her to go out instead.

Put in a brand spanking new DVD-RW, set the recorder to time record. Since it started minutes before we left I was able to see the unit turn on and start to record. The next day when she settled down to watch, Nada, Zilch. "No recorded titles".:mad::mad::mad:

Anyone have any suggestions for a good HDD recorder?

Its been about a month and a half now, so I figured I'd see if there have been any techno updates on the search for "hacks" on the LG DR1f9h.

My two issues are:

1) The ability to record an HBO program off my sat withuout getting the Copyright Protect error

2) The ability to upconvert (upvert) using component. My HD TV doesn't have HDMI

Any luck???

2 Hacks in one for the LG-DR1F9H: region free and disable CPRM so you can archive cprm-protected VHS/DVD/Cable/Satellite/etc video onto this DVD recorder, where the cprm copy count would otherwise prevent it.

How to apply: buttons on front panel and remote control.

The 7 0's hack and others listed for this model on the "lock icon" did not work on my LG-DR1F9H (although the 1397139 hack did give me the firmware version info and reset my settings to factory defaults).

So while discovering the way to disable cprm, I ran across the settings for region code in the same area. I changed them both at once using these steps.

CAUTION: These steps take you into a hexidecimal editor where values are changed with the up/down arrows on the remote. DO NOT hit the up/down arrows on your remote until you have FIRST written down the current values (just 8 2-digit hex numbers) which appear when you first get into the hex editor.

1) While the player is on, press and hold both up- and down- channel buttons on the recorder for about 5 seconds (^ & v).

2) A hex editor screen will appear with 8 "OP" codes. The second word in each of these lines is a 2-digit hex number. WRITE THESE DOWN BEFORE YOU HIT ANY BUTTONS ON YOUR REMOTE CONTROL, in case you need to restore them.

3) To disable CPRM, use ONLY the right arrow on your remote (>) to highlight the rightmost digit of OP code 4. Use the up and down arrows on your remote to change this number to it's present value MINUS 8 (if the digit is an A,B,C,D,E,or F; the number is 10,11,12,13,14,or 15, respectively; ie- change a D to a 5). You are in effect clearing the high-bit in this hex digit.

4) To set region 0, use ONLY the right arrow on your remote (>) to highlight the leftmost digit of Op code 6. If this number is 8 or 0, you are already region 0. If this number is greater than 8 (including A,B,C,D,E,F), then change it to 8. If this number is less than 8, then change it to 0. This simply clears the low 3 bits in this hex digit.

5) If you think you might have changed something you shouldn't have, then you can ABORT by hitting the menu/list button on your remote.

6) If you are satisfied with your changes, then hit Enter on your remote to write the new values to ROM. Then hit menu/list to exit.

When you turn your DVD player back on, it will play DVDs of all nationalities and will not prevent recording of CPRM-limited video onto a DVD.

Enjoy :-)
Kurt F

Kurt, I tried it and so far (recording right now) it looks like CPRM is disabled. I don't have any other nationality DVDs, but I changed that too.

Now if I can only find a way to upconvert using component AND get it to actually record 100% of the time I'll be golden.

Thanks.

I am also having the "Unknown disc, please check disc again" error while trying to play store bought DVDs. My burned DVD play with no problems. Also plays CDs with no issues. I tried a different optical drive and I get the same result. Any more ideas?

Kurt, do you know what the other OP codes are for. Also, do you have a list of the default values for these codes? Thanks

I have had this DR1F9H for about three months now (it was a gift), all of a sudden it decided that it would not play store bought DVDs. I tried calling LG and they basically said it was me and or my DVDs. What a POS machine and support!!!!
OK, now that I have vented, does anybody have a solution other than throwing this thing across the room?? ANYBODY?

Thanks in advance, sorry about the rant.

I have had this DR1F9H for about three months now (it was a gift), all of a sudden it decided that it would not play store bought DVDs. I tried calling LG and they basically said it was me and or my DVDs. What a POS machine and support!!!!
OK, now that I have vented, does anybody have a solution other than throwing this thing across the room?? ANYBODY?

Thanks in advance, sorry about the rant.
I like the idea of throwing it across the room. Or you could use it as a paper weight on a windy day.

I have had this DR1F9H for about three months now (it was a gift), all of a sudden it decided that it would not play store bought DVDs. I tried calling LG and they basically said it was me and or my DVDs. What a POS machine and support!!!!
OK, now that I have vented, does anybody have a solution other than throwing this thing across the room?? ANYBODY?

Thanks in advance, sorry about the rant.

Common common COMMON issue with LGs ... you are lucky to get more then a year out of them with no issues ... especially this model ... I can tell you right now your DVD mech went bad, got receipt for when you bought it?? Or can the person who bought it for you get receipt?? 3 months old its still under warranty

Kurt, do you know what the other OP codes are for. Also, do you have a list of the default values for these codes? Thanks

Hi... if you still need this, my default codes were:
71 20 00 49 8F 9E 15 13

mine died after about 6 months. no disc found. i will never buy an lg ever again

Anyone ever try copying a Laser Disc using this unit. I have quite a number of them and would like to transfer to smaller disc.

2 Hacks in one for the LG-DR1F9H: region free and disable CPRM so you can archive cprm-protected VHS/DVD/Cable/Satellite/etc video onto this DVD recorder, where the cprm copy count would otherwise prevent it.

How to apply: buttons on front panel and remote control.

The 7 0's hack and others listed for this model on the "lock icon" did not work on my LG-DR1F9H (although the 1397139 hack did give me the firmware version info and reset my settings to factory defaults).

So while discovering the way to disable cprm, I ran across the settings for region code in the same area. I changed them both at once using these steps.

CAUTION: These steps take you into a hexidecimal editor where values are changed with the up/down arrows on the remote. DO NOT hit the up/down arrows on your remote until you have FIRST written down the current values (just 8 2-digit hex numbers) which appear when you first get into the hex editor.

1) While the player is on, press and hold both up- and down- channel buttons on the recorder for about 5 seconds (^ & v).

2) A hex editor screen will appear with 8 "OP" codes. The second word in each of these lines is a 2-digit hex number. WRITE THESE DOWN BEFORE YOU HIT ANY BUTTONS ON YOUR REMOTE CONTROL, in case you need to restore them.

3) To disable CPRM, use ONLY the right arrow on your remote (>) to highlight the rightmost digit of OP code 4. Use the up and down arrows on your remote to change this number to it's present value MINUS 8 (if the digit is an A,B,C,D,E,or F; the number is 10,11,12,13,14,or 15, respectively; ie- change a D to a 5). You are in effect clearing the high-bit in this hex digit.

4) To set region 0, use ONLY the right arrow on your remote (>) to highlight the leftmost digit of Op code 6. If this number is 8 or 0, you are already region 0. If this number is greater than 8 (including A,B,C,D,E,F), then change it to 8. If this number is less than 8, then change it to 0. This simply clears the low 3 bits in this hex digit.

5) If you think you might have changed something you shouldn't have, then you can ABORT by hitting the menu/list button on your remote.

6) If you are satisfied with your changes, then hit Enter on your remote to write the new values to ROM. Then hit menu/list to exit.

When you turn your DVD player back on, it will play DVDs of all nationalities and will not prevent recording of CPRM-limited video onto a DVD.

Enjoy :-)
Kurt F
Okay, I'm new, so please forgive me if I missed a solution to this issue somewhere here. I just got my DR1F9H and I cannot record anything, PERIOD! I have tried numerous channels from my DirecTV receiver and I always get the message "Copy protected. Cannot record." I tried the hex editor suggested, but did not get any results. The OP4 code was 49 to start with, so I changed it to a c9 (minus 8 from the previous value, right?) and nothing! I am using a Maxell DVD-RW and VR mode as suggested in the instructions, but nothing! If I can't get this to record anything, then it's just another player and of no use to me! PLEASE HELP ME ASAP! Happy Holidays and thanks!

I've been having recording issues as well, it was working fine about 4 months ago but then it started to record only part of shows. I called the tec support and they said they were aware of the problem and were working on a fix. This was a while ago so I called back a few weeks ago and they said they were still working on it and would send me a disk to put in an update the unit. I sort of gave up but low and behold the disk showed up today.

I put the disk in and it took a bit to read. After it did it said on the TV to hit the record button 3X and then it started to update the unit. I looked at the disk on my PC and it only has one file named:

LG_DR100_8603NT_UPDATE.590

I have not tried to record anything yet but, I've zipped the file and tried to upload it here but it's too big to attach. I've zipped it and uploaded it to rapidshare, here is the link.



I'm guessing if you burn that to a DVD it may work for you too. I bet it would be just best to call and ask for one though.

Not sure how many times you can download that but send me a PM if you want it directly or maybe some one can put it somewhere better.

Sorry I guess I need three posts before I can put up a URL

So one more, sorry I just thought someone would be interested in this because the issue is so annoying.

http://rapidshare.com/files/188455938/lg_update.zip.html

I am not getting 5.1 audio and the sound is cutting out occasionally. It is connected via HDMI to a Sony HT-CT100. It does the same thing when connected via HDMI to my Samsung DLP. The sound did not cut out when connected via component, but the CT100 does not have component connections. Anyone have this problem and know of a resolution?