I have been lookin around for an alternative to my VCR player. However, I am caught between models because there always seems to be something bad and can't decide. Want your help before I start pulling hairs out.


Polaroid 2001G looks like the way to go if you are on the budget. Cheap and open to swapping to larger hard drives. Nice!

CONS: Remote control. Heard it's horrible and I use my remote from a distance of at least 7 ft. Any replacement for it? Any way to improve this?

Mono Tuner?! Come on now, yes many of these shows will be deleted not long after being recorded, but Mono? This is 2006!
Menu Interface? How about quality control of the player?


Pioneer DVR 640h-S looks like it's a solid recorder. On the pricey side, but heard it was worth it. Now, I am all for spending the extra money if it will save me the headaches later. However, I heard this product has defective hard drives. True?

Does this model have the ability to swap out hard drives like the Polaroid 2001G model?

Any other quirks with this Pioneer?


Main priority is to record tv shows. Then DVD player, then DVD recorder features, etc. If it's going have a dvd player, I mine as well have a good one so I can replace my current DVD player. ;)


If you have another model in mind for me please go right ahead and spill the beans. I am listening! :cool:


THANKS!

I have not heard of any Pio 53x/63x or 640 hard drives that are or were "defective." Not sure where you heard that but would be interested to find out.

Could the 2005 53x/63x TVGOS problems, which included the sound of "hard drive grinding," be what you're referring to. If so, even the annoying sound SOME people had did not mean a defective HDD, only a poorly designed TVGOS system.

AFIAK the Pioneer's have the most reliable HDDs of the top DVDRs. I have 2 640s and they perform very reliably so far.

There are reports at VideoHelp.com of successful HDD replacement on an older 510 model (to increase space) but it requires special equipment like a service remote. Not easy.

AFIAK the Pioneer's have the most reliable HDDs of the top DVDRs. I have 2 640s and they perform very reliably so far.

There are reports at VideoHelp.com of successful HDD replacement on an older 510 model (to increase space) but it requires special equipment like a service remote. Not easy.

Has anybody tracked the various brands of HDD's used in DVD recorders? I'm a bit curious. I know the Polaroid uses Western Digital. I have a Pio 640 but have not opened it to see what it uses. I just picked up a Toshiba HDD unit and had the cover off but did not make note of the HDD. I wonder what Sony uses. Panasonic? Philips?

I have been lookin around for an alternative to my VCR player. However, I am caught between models because there always seems to be something bad and can't decide. Want your help before I start pulling hairs out.


Polaroid 2001G looks like the way to go if you are on the budget. Cheap and open to swapping to larger hard drives. Nice!

CONS: Remote control. Heard it's horrible and I use my remote from a distance of at least 7 ft. Any replacement for it? Any way to improve this?

Mono Tuner?! Come on now, yes many of these shows will be deleted not long after being recorded, but Mono? This is 2006!
Menu Interface? How about quality control of the player?


Pioneer DVR 640h-S looks like it's a solid recorder. On the pricey side, but heard it was worth it. Now, I am all for spending the extra money if it will save me the headaches later. However, I heard this product has defective hard drives. True?

Does this model have the ability to swap out hard drives like the Polaroid 2001G model?

Any other quirks with this Pioneer?


Main priority is to record tv shows. Then DVD player, then DVD recorder features, etc. If it's going have a dvd player, I mine as well have a good one so I can replace my current DVD player. ;)


If you have another model in mind for me please go right ahead and spill the beans. I am listening! :cool:


THANKS!

Polaroid 2001G - the remote has had complaints but my experience tells me that they were from the early production units. I have two newer ones and the remote performs fine. I can operate from 15ft with the stock remote just fine. An early version of the Polaroid was tested and it was confirmed that it had a mono tuner. I posted in the Polaroid thread that this may have changed. When Polaroid was asked via e-mail the response was that the tuner was stereo. So the jury is still out on the newer models.

Pioneer 640 - Solid build. Top tier. I would not be concerned with the HDD. I do not believe anybody has been successful in swapping the HDD. But a replacement is available through Pioneer if problems arise.

Thank you all for the responses.

The new Polaroid models, how do I know which has the one with the stereo tuner and the "new" remote?

I am still leaning toward the Pioneer because of its reliability.

Thank you all for the responses.

The new Polaroid models, how do I know which has the one with the stereo tuner and the "new" remote?

I am still leaning toward the Pioneer because of its reliability.

There is no proven evidence the newer production Polaroids have a stereo tuner. I posted in the Polaroid thread that when asked via email if the tuner was stereo the resonse back from Polaroid support was that it was stereo. I would not take this as confirmation. But I did note in my post that my television does report both stereo and mono when looking at a news channel versus Tuner Classic Movie channel. This in my mind is still not "confirmation". I would check out the Polaroid thread and post there any questions you may have.

Your decision is more dependent on your anticipated use requirements in my opinion. Only you can answer that.

Pioneer is a solid brand that produces excellent DVD recorders.

Many people confuse "mono" (a SINGLE channel) with our typical ref. to a "stereo" signal, even tho' that "stereo" signal may be only two-channels, L and R, both outputting the same audio signal.

Someone proved that an early Polaroid did not have a true "stereo" tuner by hooking its output to an oscilloscope and comparing the TWO-channel traces from that tuner to a true stereo source.

The oscilloscope test proved the Polaroid had a two-channel tuner, but it could not reproduce a TRUE STEREO signal (a mono channel plus a "difference" channel, which shows two different traces on an oscilloscope).

Most TVs and other equip. report an audio signal as "Stereo" when that signal is really only two identical channels.

Many people confuse "mono" (a SINGLE channel) with our typical ref. to a "stereo" signal, even tho' that "stereo" signal may be only two-channels, L and R, both outputting the same audio signal.

Someone proved that an early Polaroid did not have a true "stereo" tuner by hooking its output to an oscilloscope and comparing the TWO-channel traces from that tuner to a true stereo source.

The oscilloscope test proved the Polaroid had a two-channel tuner, but it could not reproduce a TRUE STEREO signal (a mono channel plus a "difference" channel, which shows two different traces on an oscilloscope).

Most TVs and other equip. report an audio signal as "Stereo" when that signal is really only two identical channels.

Right that was "trhouse" who did the testing over at videohelp. The reason I opened the question again was because of the Polaroid support response. I'd like to see that same test on a newer model. The "cousin" of the Polaroid, the Philips, has a stereo tuner.

edit - I asked the question again because my television reported both stereo or mono depending on the channel. I would assume if it was two channel mono then it would report one or the other. Not either/or depending on the channel.

Pioneer model has to have a true stereo tuner for that kind of money right?


What about that Philips you are talking about. How is that?

Right that was "trhouse" who did the testing over at videohelp. The reason I opened the question again was because of the Polaroid support response. I'd like to see that same test on a newer model. The "cousin" of the Polaroid, the Philips, has a stereo tuner.

edit - I asked the question again because my television reported both stereo or mono depending on the channel. I would assume if it was two channel mono then it would report one or the other. Not either/or depending on the channel.
Without an oscilloscope, one way to tell if an audio signal is "two-channel-mono" or what many call "stereo" (many TVs) is to turn the Balance control (if the device has one) all the way L and R and see if the audio just reduces in level by about half or stays the same*. If so, the source is two-channel "stereo." If the sound changes from, say, drums to horns, or some such, then the signal is true stereo. I think we've pretty well corrupted the term "stereo" in the consumer world. :(

*That's how my system reacts. My video and audio input all go thru my Pio 640, which defaults to "Stereo" and "L" channel for dual mono sources. When I turn my Balance control all Left, when the TV is showing a "Stereo" program, the sound does not change (or hardly at all?). When I turn the Balance all the way Right, the audio level just decreases by about half...no diff. in "sound" like true stereo in either position, L or R...even tho' the TV displayed a "Stereo" program.

Pioneer model has to have a true stereo tuner for that kind of money right?


What about that Philips you are talking about. How is that?

My choice between the Philips and the polaroid would be the Polaroid.

Remember that the stereo/mono issue with the Polaroid is only limited to the coax tuner input. If you plan on using composite, s-video, or component video inputs along with the audio red/white inputs then the Polaroid is stereo.

Without an oscilloscope, one way to tell if an audio signal is "two-channel-mono" or what many call "stereo" (many TVs) is to turn the Balance control (if the device has one) all the way L or R and see if the audio just reduces in level by about half. If so, the source is two-channel "stereo." If the sound changes from, say, drums to horns, or some such, then the signal is true stereo. I think we've pretty well corrupted the term "stereo" in the consumer world. :(

Yes I could not agree more. The funny thing here is that I never use the coax tuner input for recording (regardless of brand) so for me it really doesn't apply. I'm just curious if the original tests on the earlier production model still applies. The model trhouse used was an earlier model with the external fan grill on the back panel of the Polaroid.

Yes I could not agree more. The funny thing here is that I never use the coax tuner input for recording (regardless of brand) so for me it really doesn't apply. I'm just curious if the original tests on the earlier production model still applies. The model trhouse used was an earlier model with the external fan grill on the back panel of the Polaroid.
Your "Franken-Roid" doesn't need a stereo tuner...just a few atomic particles to operate just fine! :)

AFAIK every "STEREO" Tuner I've ever seen also came with SAP (Second Audio Program).

Now maybe some of this junk from China has changed this though?

So I would say to look for the SAP on the Polaroid & if it doesn't have it then it probably doesn't have a STEREO Tuner either.

But if I was you I would spend the extra money & get the Pioneer for peace of mind it's a nice quality unit :)

AFAIK every "STEREO" Tuner I've ever seen also came with SAP (Second Audio Program).

Now maybe some of this junk from China has changed this though?

So I would say to look for the SAP on the Polaroid & if it doesn't have it then it probably doesn't have a STEREO Tuner either.

But if I was you I would spend the extra money & get the Pioneer for peace of mind it's a nice quality unit :)
The Polaroid can record SAP thru its tuner 'cause it's a two-channel tuner...that's all that's needed for SAP...it doesn't need to be true "stereo."

If you are "choosing between the Polaroid at Walmart and the Pio 640", that is like comparing a Chevrolet with a Toyota. I have tested the Walmart HDD Polaroid and although it records well, it sucks in editing and many other features ad nauseam. There is absolutely no comparison- Pio HDD 640 kills the Walmart HDD Polaroid. Do not EVEN consider these two in the same breath or sentence.

I think you'd be happy with either.

If I had to but a replacement HDD DVD recorder right now, I'd go get the Polaroid. It's not a perfect machine in terms of frilly features, and the mono tuner is disappointing, but it's not the end of the world.

Of course, at this very moment, I speak from a pricing point of view. I have something else I'd like to buy, so I'd rather not dump excess money into something I may not truly need, or could survive without.

So I guess it comes back to what you listen to your shows on. Not to mention quite a few tv shows are mono anyway, not true stereo.

The Polaroid LSI does a good job at encoding clean quality video, especially from VHS tapes. But just recording off tv, pick either one.

Either choice is surely an upgrade from VHS, remember that too!

I have both the Polaroid and the Pioneer and I can recommend both.

I just bought the Polaroid. I'm happy with it. Would have liked the Pioneer, but the upgrade-ability (is that even a word?) and some CP issues (or lack thereof) of the Polaroid, plus the $100 cheaper price tag won me over. I also like the fact that I can return it if I want without hassle. It is worth the $220.

I know it is not in the same league as the Pio, but all I want to do is simple recording and storing on a hard drive. That's it.

Okay, I am heading towards Polaroid now.

Questions:
I have a Digital 8mm camcorder and would like to convert them into DVD via firewire. How is the quality of video of this machine compared to the Pioneer? Reason I ask because I heard some recorder produce horrible quality DVD (grainy).


How is the DVD drive? Since it's going to replace my current DVD player, I want one is good to play all my movies and don't want one that "lags".



Thanks again everybody! :cool:

The only thing I can say is, buy one and try it out. Walmart has a great return policy. The closet Pioneer I could find was 60 miles away and was $170 more ($389ish).

Okay, I am heading towards Polaroid now.

Questions:
I have a Digital 8mm camcorder and would like to convert them into DVD via firewire. How is the quality of video of this machine compared to the Pioneer? Reason I ask because I heard some recorder produce horrible quality DVD (grainy).


How is the DVD drive? Since it's going to replace my current DVD player, I want one is good to play all my movies and don't want one that "lags".



Thanks again everybody! :cool:

I think Chris has offered the best advice. At this point I would try to get my hands on one or the other and see what your own observations are. Report back because anything anybody observes is valuable!

There are many Walmarts around me that have this model. However, I am not the type of person that likes to buy things and return them because I just want to "rent" or try it out. I'd rather find out beforehand by reading and getting information from owners.

Could anybody just confirm the quality of DVD this model makes? Plus, the quality of the DVD drive.

There are many Walmarts around me that have this model. However, I am not the type of person that likes to buy things and return them because I just want to "rent" or try it out. I'd rather find out beforehand by reading and getting information from owners.

Could anybody just confirm the quality of DVD this model makes? Plus, the quality of the DVD drive.

The Polaroid uses an LSI domino chipset for recording which some have claimed is the best for a consumer DVD recorder.

But there are many features that only you can determine may be important to you. I would read through both the Polaroid and Pioneer 640 threads in this forum.

As difficult (?) as it may sound the decision is yours - nobody can make it for you. And I do not believe it is possible to ever find out "beforehand".

Make the plunge and report back your results!

This is not a major purchase. Walmart does accept returns. I would not let this be the determining factor in your decision.

There are many Walmarts around me that have this model. However, I am not the type of person that likes to buy things and return them because I just want to "rent" or try it out. I'd rather find out beforehand by reading and getting information from owners.

Could anybody just confirm the quality of DVD this model makes? Plus, the quality of the DVD drive.

The quality of the DVD that this model burns is fine. And the quality of the DVD drive is fine too.

There are many Walmarts around me that have this model. However, I am not the type of person that likes to buy things and return them because I just want to "rent" or try it out. I'd rather find out beforehand by reading and getting information from owners.

Could anybody just confirm the quality of DVD this model makes? Plus, the quality of the DVD drive.

I know where you are coming from. I try to do my research beforehand as well. However, if you are spending $235 (after tax) on a piece of electronic equipment, and it doesn't live up to your standards, then why keep it? Plus it's Walmart.

I have absolutely no qualms about returning items that I purchase that don't perform. I work hard for the money I receive, and I'll be damned if I'm going to waste it on junk. Nothing gets me going than buying something and later finding out it is shoddy.

Traditionally speaking I've always tried to stick with Pioneer equipment, however, I just couldn't justify a purcahse of the 640 which was 44% more than the Polaroid for what I wanted to do (simple recording to the HD). This was going to be integrated into a secondary HT system since an HDMI-equipped DVDR would have cost me upwards of $500 (and no local distributors). If the PIO would have had HDMI, then I most likely would have bought one, but that, in addition to not having a local seller, put me off. Now, if I could have picked one up for $300 locally, I would have bought it.

Believe me, the Polaroid is lacking in many aspects, it certainly doesn't have a lot of bells and whistles. And yes, it does have a kind of cheap feel to it...... But it works fine for me. I know where the extra $170 goes in the Pioneer.

Plus, I can upgrade to an external HD! (Thanks Nextoo!)

Chris

I know where you are coming from. I try to do my research beforehand as well. However, if you are spending $235 (after tax) on a piece of electronic equipment, and it doesn't live up to your standards, then why keep it? Plus it's Walmart.

I have absolutely no qualms about returning items that I purchase that doesn't perform. I work hard for the money I receive, and I'll be damned if I'm going to waste it on junk. Nothing gets me going than buying something and later finding out it is shoddy.

Traditionally speaking I've always tried to stick with Pioneer equipment, however, I just couldn't justify a purcahse of the 640 which was 44% more than the Polaroid for what I wanted to do (simple recording to the HD). This was going to be integrated into a secondary HT system since an HDMI-equipped DVDR would have cost me upwards of $500 (and no local distributors). If the PIO would have had HDMI, then I most likely would have bought one, but that, in addition to not having a local seller, put me off. Now, if I could have picked one up for $300 locally, I would have bought it.

Believe me, the Polaroid is lacking in many aspects, it certainly doesn't have a lot of bells and whistles. And yes, it does have a kind of cheap feel to it...... But it works fine for me. I know where the extra $170 goes in the Pioneer.

Plus, I can upgrade to an external HD! (Thanks Nextoo!)

Chris

Great points but I would not undersell the Polaroid. I personally believe the build is solid. It does have a simple menu system but this may actually be good for most people. Most of the bad reports about editing were becuse of the early bad remotes. With the right remote editing is simple and easy. It is limited but for most this may also be good.

I've got good/bad news for you about an HDMI DVDR. I picked one up (actually 2) on e-slay when Dealtree was liguidating the Toshiba RD-KX50. The KX50 is the XS52 only with an 80GB HDD. Or put another way it is the XS32 with HDMI output and upscaling. I was stunned when I opened the boxes and found out the units were new. Never unpacked. I got in early before a lot of people figured what was going on and the prices then started running up to $150. My investment on average was $61.00 per piece. So there are good deals out there for and HDMI DVDR. I'm going to use these as I used my R-2's - recording widescreen HD at 480i through the Polaroid (component inputs). These units can set the widescreen flag.

Yep, I guess the only thing that has a "cheap" feel to it on the Polaroid would be the remote. You're right, the unit itself has a pretty solid feel to it. The tray seems good, and everything else works fine. A few items here and there that I would like to see on the Polaroid, but hey, for $220 I can't complain.

How many DVDRs do you own nextoo? Nice find on the Toshibas. How do you like them?

Yep, I guess the only thing that has a "cheap" feel to it on the Polaroid would be the remote. You're right, the unit itself has a pretty solid feel to it. The tray seems good, and everything else works fine. A few items here and there that I would like to see on the Polaroid, but hey, for $220 I can't complain.

How many DVDRs do you own nextoo? Nice find on the Toshibas. How do you like them?

Too many. But what I don't use/need wind up as great deals for family/friends or e-slay. My net investment after the dust clears is not that great. I actually make a few dollars sometimes. If I had to count right now off the top of my head I would have to say 12. Which means the herd is ready to be thinned out.

I went out to purchase the Polaroid 2001G today. So far an excellent machine just as I expected for this price range. I can see why people complained about the remoted poor buttons and layout, but its range is excellent.

I also noticed it doesn't have a fan in the back. it has the buzzing start up noise (hard drive/optical?) when you power on the recorder, but it's silent afterwards.

Fantastic. We bring another into the fold. Sounds like you have a later production model. My remote is still horrible (E model) but a $2 fix at Radio Shack will do the trick. I'm keeping this one. I am using it often and even my wife is liking the idea of having a hard drive. Go figure.

BTW: Anybody figure out any of the remote codes yet?

Fantastic. We bring another into the fold. Sounds like you have a later production model. My remote is still horrible (E model) but a $2 fix at Radio Shack will do the trick. I'm keeping this one. I am using it often and even my wife is liking the idea of having a hard drive. Go figure.

BTW: Anybody figure out any of the remote codes yet?

The remote control is truly the achilles heel here in this Polaroid 2001G package.

You have to press down hard on the buttons and sometimes that doesn't even work so you have to press it again. It has small buttons so you really have to be accurate when pressing or you will be pressing two or three buttons at the same time. On top of that you have such a poor layout it, it's not organized like other remotes (Sony/Pioneer) where you have distinct sections of the remote control.
It also feels light and flimsy, I am afraid of crushing it when handling.

The only pro I can think of is its range. However, this too is limited because you can't go beyond a certain angle before it doesn't pick up the signal.


Please somebody out there make a replacement remote control or find an universal remote that will work with this model!


Everything else is working smoothly. By the way, what's up with the military/24hour time display? I know how to read that, but still would like to have the 12 hour mode.

The remote control is truly the achilles heel here in this Polaroid 2001G package.

You have to press down hard on the buttons and sometimes that doesn't even work so you have to press it again. It has small buttons so you really have to be accurate when pressing or you will be pressing two or three buttons at the same time. On top of that you have such a poor layout it, it's not organized like other remotes (Sony/Pioneer) where you have distinct sections of the remote control.
It also feels light and flimsy, I am afraid of crushing it when handling.

The only pro I can think of is its range. However, this too is limited because you can't go beyond a certain angle before it doesn't pick up the signal.


Please somebody out there make a replacement remote control or find an universal remote that will work with this model!


Everything else is working smoothly. By the way, what's up with the military/24hour time display? I know how to read that, but still would like to have the 12 hour mode.

Take the time to read the thread.

All of your answers are there.

I have found that the Sony VL-600 is a great replacement remote but you can also do the $2.00 remote fix from Radio Shack..

Take the time to read the thread.

All of your answers are there.

I have found that the Sony VL-600 is a great replacement remote but you can also do the $2.00 remote fix from Radio Shack..

Well I don't want to modify the current remote because it will not help with the horrible ergonomic design of this remote.

i was meaning to ask you about the Sony VL600 before. It looks really nice, but is it able to perform all the functions of the Polaroid remote? Weren't you having problems with a certain feature?

Panasonic DMR ES15 best quality in the price range

Panasonic DMR ES15 best quality in the price range

No hard drive though. :(



Tell us more about that remote nextoo. If it works I will buy it in a heartbeat.

The Sony VL-600 is a very good learning remote at an unheard of price of $25. I personally like the original Polaroid remote and have no problems with it at all. I use the VL-600 because it is a learning remote and can control 8 devices. I have it controlling 6 right now. As far as the Polaroid you will have to have it "teach" the VL-600 button by button. There is no universal code.

Use the "search" feature in the forum and search "VL-600". You'll find additional comments that may help.

The Sony VL-600 is a very good learning remote at an unheard of price of $25. I personally like the original Polaroid remote and have no problems with it at all. I use the VL-600 because it is a learning remote and can control 8 devices. I have it controlling 6 right now. As far as the Polaroid you will have to have it "teach" the VL-600 button by button. There is no universal code.

Use the "search" feature in the forum and search "VL-600". You'll find additional comments that may help.

You don't actually prefer the Polaroid remote over the Sony's remote control do you?

You don't actually prefer the Polaroid remote over the Sony's remote control do you?

I don't mind the Polaroid remote at all. I purchased the Sony for its universal/learning capabilities not as a Polaroid replacement.

That being said the Sony remote is great and I can operate all functions of the Polaroid with it. You do have to take the time to have the Sony learn each of the Polaroid remote buttons. And you have to make some decisions as to where to put certain Polaroid functions on the Sony. Once that is done I think you'll find the Sony a great remote. An improvement over many original remotes.

Plus you have the added benefit of not wearing out the original remotes the Sony replaces. I'd hate to have to try and find a Polaroid remote a few years from now!

I went out to purchase the Polaroid 2001G today. So far an excellent machine just as I expected for this price range. I can see why people complained about the remoted poor buttons and layout, but its range is excellent.

I also noticed it doesn't have a fan in the back. it has the buzzing start up noise (hard drive/optical?) when you power on the recorder, but it's silent afterwards.


WHich model do you have?

I don't mind the Polaroid remote at all. I purchased the Sony for its universal/learning capabilities not as a Polaroid replacement.

That being said the Sony remote is great and I can operate all functions of the Polaroid with it. You do have to take the time to have the Sony learn each of the Polaroid remote buttons. And you have to make some decisions as to where to put certain Polaroid functions on the Sony. Once that is done I think you'll find the Sony a great remote. An improvement over many original remotes.

Plus you have the added benefit of not wearing out the original remotes the Sony replaces. I'd hate to have to try and find a Polaroid remote a few years from now!

Just wanted to say, I just picked up the vl600, & I LOVE it! I replaced 6 remotes with this thing... I'm even able to control my projector with it.

You're right about deciding where to map the Polaroid buttons; also the Sony has fewer, but it was not tough to drop a couple buttons I never use. My only regret is no "skip" buttons... ended up assigning them to channel up/down.

I have two free component buttons left... I'm considering adding my air conditioner... hmmmm... :)

Just wanted to say, I just picked up the vl600, & I LOVE it! I replaced 6 remotes with this thing... I'm even able to control my projector with it.

You're right about deciding where to map the Polaroid buttons; also the Sony has fewer, but it was not tough to drop a couple buttons I never use. My only regret is no "skip" buttons... ended up assigning them to channel up/down.

I have two free component buttons left... I'm considering adding my air conditioner... hmmmm... :)

For $25 there is no better. It is rated higher than a lot of $100+ remotes over at Remote Central.

It is actually better than many of the original remotes I have. For example the VL-600 can do up to a 16 step macro. With my cable box remote (SA8300HD) it takes 13 steps to change from 1080i to 480i. With the VL-600 I now press the "Cable" component select button for more than 2 seconds (page 32 of the VL-600 manual) and it happens automatically. And the way I have it set up it will toggle between 480i and 1080i. This is great when using a DVD recorder with an HD source. This is just one example.

I also use the D system control button to run a macro that turns on my TV and my cable box and then defaults the remote to cable. Pressing the D button again turns these two components off. There are many other examples some of which I haven't even thought of yet.

Highly recommended.

Here's one I had not thought of.

I just programmed the A system control button to turn on my Polaroid 2001G DVD recorder and also set my cable box (SA8300HD) to 480i output. When I press the A system control button again it turns off the Polaroid and sets the cable box back to 1080i. This is good because now I do not have to worry about feeding a 1080i non compatable signal to the Polaroid.

The only problem with this is I had previously had assigned the A-B-C system control buttons to work as the A-B-C buttons that are on my SA8300HD remote. I'll have to move them somewhere else.

For $25 there is no better. It is rated higher than a lot of $100+ remotes over at Remote Central.

It is actually better than many of the original remotes I have. For example the VL-600 can do up to a 16 step macro. With my cable box remote (SA8300HD) it takes 13 steps to change from 1080i to 480i. With the VL-600 I now press the "Cable" component select button for more than 2 seconds (page 32 of the VL-600 manual) and it happens automatically. And the way I have it set up it will toggle between 480i and 1080i. This is great when using a DVD recorder with an HD source. This is just one example.

I also use the D system control button to run a macro that turns on my TV and my cable box and then defaults the remote to cable. Pressing the D button again turns these two components off. There are many other examples some of which I haven't even thought of yet.

Highly recommended.

I haven't even messed with the macros yet... I'm just glad I don't need a forklift to get all the remotes over to the sofa anymore.

The only lacking features I see so far:

- No "skip" buttons
- No "eject" button
- No backlighting

The first 2 not really an issues... just reassign them.

I haven't even messed with the macros yet... I'm just glad I don't need a forklift to get all the remotes over to the sofa anymore.

The only lacking features I see so far:

- No "skip" buttons
- No "eject" button
- No backlighting

The first 2 not really an issues... just reassign them.

The macros are great after taking the time to figure out how to use them. But it makes the decision making process exponential :confused: . I've already changed what I've posted above as I figure out how to improve things. Now I have it set so when I turn on the Polaroid I press the component button for more than two seconds and it turns it on and adjusts my cable box to 480i.

The channel up/down buttons are the defaults for the DVD player codes for chapter skips. Your idea was a good one. I've done the same.

I picked this remote up and must say my thumbs are thanking you. A very nice replacement indeed! The downside of course the quantity of "free" buttons that are on the remote. However, I got all the necessary buttons from the Polaroid over to the VL-600.

I made a modification cover for my Sony remote so it incorporates the text vocabulary from the Polaroid:

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/2117/remotecompletedlogoreviwz7.th.jpg (http://img213.imageshack.us/my.php?image=remotecompletedlogoreviwz7.jpg)


Later on I will do the sequence thing, but for now this will do. :D


Thanks nextoo. ;)

I picked this remote up and must say my thumbs are thanking you. A very nice replacement indeed! The downside of course the quantity of "free" buttons that are on the remote. However, I got all the necessary buttons from the Polaroid over to the VL-600.

I made a modification cover for my Sony remote so it incorporates the text vocabulary from the Polaroid:

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/2117/remotecompletedlogoreviwz7.th.jpg (http://img213.imageshack.us/my.php?image=remotecompletedlogoreviwz7.jpg)


Later on I will do the sequence thing, but for now this will do. :D


Thanks nextoo. ;)

Looks great! It even has the THX and DTS logos. I'm impressed. :D

I'm thinking of buying the Polaroid DVD recorder from Walmart. I own a Lite-On LVW-1101 and I've been happy with it for the past year but I'm ready to move on to a recorder with a hard drive. My Lite-on does not have a hard drive.

On my Lite-On when I'm watching a movie that I recorded I can stop it and when I start again it starts at the exact place where I left off. Does the Polaroid do this when watching from the hard drive? I thought I read somewhere that it goes back to the beginning of the movie. Is this a common thing with hard drive recorders?

On my Lite-On when I'm watching a movie that I recorded I can stop it and when I start again it starts at the exact place where I left off. Does the Polaroid do this when watching from the hard drive? I thought I read somewhere that it goes back to the beginning of the movie. Is this a common thing with hard drive recorders?
The Pio 640 remembers every position in every show...it has 2 stages of "STOP"...a single press leaves it in "Resume" position, and a 2nd press turns Resume Off, or back to beginning.

I'm now in the market for a new recorder. I've had a Panny for about 5 years now but the S-video input is on the fritz and i need that to record in 16x9.

I guess I'm now leaning towards the Polaroid but I guess i'm concerned about PQ. That's my biggest interest and I want to know if there is a difference between the models. I'd rather spend the money for a better encoder/recorder if there's a reason to.

I'd appreciate your opinions, guys. Thanks so much!!!

The advantage of the Pioneer 640 is that it has adjustable recording quality, so you can get the best quality DVDs with it. The next best DVR is the Panasonic EH55V (200GB HDD). It also has adjustable recording quality too, but it's not quite as versitile as the 640. I'm not familiar with the Polaroid unit, but it is in a different class, IMHO.

If you're just interested in recording (without regard for the quality of the results) for the lowest cost, then it should certainly be acceptable. Just my 2 cents worth :D.

The advantage of the Pioneer 640 is that it has adjustable recording quality, so you can get the best quality DVDs with it. The next best DVR is the Panasonic EH55V (200GB HDD). It also has adjustable recording quality too, but it's not quite as versitile as the 640. I'm not familiar with the Polaroid unit, but it is in a different class, IMHO.

If you're just interested in recording (without regard for the quality of the results) for the lowest cost, then it should certainly be acceptable. Just my 2 cents worth :D.

I am not a shill for the Polaroid so I have to jump in here. I own both the Polaroid and the Pioneer 640. I own a few Toshibas and have owned Panasonic in the past.

If you are not familiar with a particular product then how do you feel comfortable commenting on it :) ? Just curious because I know your comments are well intentioned.

The Polaroid offers an LSI domino chipset so one of its strengths is recording quality. It does not allow for setting a specific recording bit rate but it does offer 1-2-2.5-3-4-6 hour recording modes which is quite good - actually the best offered for recorders that do not allow for specific recording bit rates. Its shortfall is it is a simple machine (editing capabilities) - not recording quality. This makes it a great first purchase.

Also it offers something that most recorders do not - component inputs. Surprising considering the price point. This is great when recording an HD channel at 480i in wide screen mode. My 640 or Toshibas do not have component inputs. My Panasonic did not as well. This alone, at least for me, makes it worth the price.

There are other strengths unique to the Polaroid that are discussed in the Polaroid thread. Too many to list here. Is it the latest and the greatest? Nope, not even close. But it does offer much more than most realize.

One of them being great PQ.

Just my 2 cents worth. :D

I bought my Polaroid DRM-2001G unit about a month ago for one main purpose -- to transfer several hundred VHS and 8mm camera tapes of personal home videos to DVD. So far (I'm about halfway through the project) the results have been great! Video quality (in the SP 2-hr mode) is stunning -- as good as, or maybe even better than the original playbacks from tape. One thing I have not seen written about on this forum is the "YesVideo" software feature which creates created "intelligent chapters" and then puts thumbnail pictures on the front page menu, and also prints DVD Cover Sheets with those thumbnail stills. I don't know if other DVR's have this capability ... but I love the way it works! The built-in hard drive has also proven to be nice for recording TV shows ... although the mono sound on the tuner is a glaring con. Also, as has been noted over and over here, the remote is a disaster of non-user-friendly design. Overall though, I do recommend this machine -- for a little over $200, it's a very good value. ...

The Pio 640 remembers every position in every show...it has 2 stages of "STOP"...a single press leaves it in "Resume" position, and a 2nd press turns Resume Off, or back to beginning.

Does the Polaroid 2001G have a feature like the above? When you stop it can it resume at the same place? Or does it go back to the beginning? There are times when I have to stop watching (sometimes for a few hours) and want to go back to where I was - - is this possible with the Polaroid?

No, the Polaroid does NOT resume where you left off if you hit the STOP button -- even once. That's one of the pissers you have to get used to. When watching something recorded on the hard drive, you can hit "PAUSE" and then "PLAY" again to resume ... but if your finger slips and hits "STOP", you have to start all the way back at the beginning and FF through the whole show to get back to where you were!

For anyone considering either the Pio 640 or the Polaroid 2001G, and NOT planning to "beef up" the unit with extra HDDs like Nextoo, consider this:

The Pio 640 is just $72 more right now at beachcamera.com (http://www.beachcamera.com/shop/product.aspx?sku=PRDVR640HS), shipping included. You have to "Add to Cart" to see the $319.00 price.

Pio 640 at beachcamera = $319 delivered.

Polaroid 2001G at Wal-Mart = $247 (if tax is 8%).

For anyone considering either the Pio 640 or the Polaroid 2001G, and NOT planning to "beef up" the unit with extra HDDs like Nextoo, consider this:

The Pio 640 is just $72 more right now at beachcamera.com (http://www.beachcamera.com/shop/product.aspx?sku=PRDVR640HS), shipping included. You have to "Add to Cart" to see the $319.00 price.

Pio 640 at beachcamera = $319 delivered.

Polaroid 2001G at Wal-Mart = $247 (if tax is 8%).

Great price on the 640. Best I've seen was the One Call thing from a few weeks ago. I actually bought too soon and missed out on it. But I got a mint clearance one for $289 delivered. The One Call deal if I remember was even better for a new one. The Beach deal is excellent. And the 640 is a great machine.

I picked up a Sony VL600 Remote to go with my Polaroid 2001G after reading all the favorable postings here. So far, I love it ... but I do have a question. How can I program those SYSTEM CONTROL buttons at the bottom (A,B,C,D) to act like regular buttons and not Macros? The image posted by FBI Agent shows them being assigned to things like "Timeshift" and "DVD". I read the manual, and I must be missing something. It only describes how to assign macros to those buttons. How can I assign regular "learned" button commands to them?

I picked up a Sony VL600 Remote to go with my Polaroid 2001G after reading all the favorable postings here. So far, I love it ... but I do have a question. How can I program those SYSTEM CONTROL buttons at the bottom (A,B,C,D) to act like regular buttons and not Macros? The image posted by FBI Agent shows them being assigned to things like "Timeshift" and "DVD". I read the manual, and I must be missing something. It only describes how to assign macros to those buttons. How can I assign regular "learned" button commands to them?

The procedure for assigning single buttons to the system control buttons is outlined on page 20-21, but you can also just program them as "one-step" macros. If you want to be sure they get applied to the correct component, just precede the command with that component button.

I have been having a problem with the audio with the Polaroid DVD Recorder:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9509316#post9509316


Help?! :confused:

I have been having a problem with the audio with the Polaroid DVD Recorder:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9509316#post9509316


Help?! :confused:

Wow. Maybe we should call you "Batman". I can't hear anything. You've got some great ears!! Probably come in handy in "The Bureau" I suppose ;)

I picked this remote up and must say my thumbs are thanking you. A very nice replacement indeed! The downside of course the quantity of "free" buttons that are on the remote. However, I got all the necessary buttons from the Polaroid over to the VL-600.

I made a modification cover for my Sony remote so it incorporates the text vocabulary from the Polaroid:

Later on I will do the sequence thing, but for now this will do. :D


Thanks nextoo. ;)

If possible could you please list the steps that you use to program Sony VL-600 remote. I just bought the remote and followed the manual but I screwed up some how I could not program Sony remote to work for Polaroid.

Thanks,
Tree