I am a PVR newb. Can anyone shed some light on these devices? I like the idea of being able to store movies for my two year old and have them with us at all times. Also, I would like to use it as a DVR to watch our favorite T.V. programs after the little guy goes to sleep. I'm not really concerned with the picture quality of the actual player itself but am concerned with the picture quality when playing recordings back on a regular T.V.

Which of the two devices is the easiest to use for an idiot-boy like me? Meaning, being able to record directly to the unit without some kind of conversion software or anything.

Thanks for all your help!

Mike

First, are you talking about the 704? If you are, it looks like a sweet player.

I own the A2 and love it. I've read the quality is close but the Archos is better. Also type in to YouTube and Google video. People record hands on demos. Battery life on the A2 is much better, but if you have it plugged in all the time I don't think that will be an issue.

http://www.dapreview.net/e107_plugins/content/content.php?content.239

http://www.iaudiophile.net/forums/showthread.php?t=12231

If the DVR function is the main reason you want one I think (even though I'm an A2 lover) that the Archos would be your best bet. One of the main reasons i say that is the Archos has a remote control. The A2 only has a wired remote that looks useless for a DVR user.

Thanks Frankie! I have a 80G 504 on the way!

Mike

I have an Archos AV500 (previous model) and have been very happy with it. 12,000 songs, a few music movies (Elvis '68, Johnny Cash at San Quentin, Singin' In The Rain, etc.) and still 27GB left.

May wanna hold up a bit if it's not too late already. A new A3 and Archos are slated to come out pretty soon.

http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-13377_7-6715414-1.html?tag=mnav

Also here's a general video dabate about the two.

http://www.cnettv.com/9710-1_53-27432.html?tag=bubbl_1

Any word on the A# or the Q5 from cowon? Release date or prices?