Which is one is higher quality? I've read postings on both and am now confused. The Samsung does not have a Hdmi ouput, also doesnt have the 5 sec skip on DVD's. Will the S-video output give me a good picture. Do any of these recorders up-convert?

I have a Samsung 61" DLP TV and Dishnetwork HD receiver.

Thanks :)

If you don't need or want DVD-RW "VR" recording then I would go with the Panny because it's better built has the "FR" Recording mode & the best "LP" picture quality on the market & the RAM "Time Slip" features plus who knows how important the HDMI output might be in the future but I would'nt buy a new "Main" recorder for my system today without having an HDMI Output on it.

Just wanted to add that if you have a Sam's Club or Costco near you check & see if they have the Panasonic ES46VS model because it comes with the HDMI cable & runs around the same price as the ES45VS & it's really just a 45 with a Free Cable :)