We have a video conferencing system w/ a VHS recorder intergrated into it and we need to add a DVR to mix. We need a DVR that is easy to use w/ clear menus and reliable.

Any recommendations a appreciated.

Mike

I failed to mention I don't need a HD DVR as it'll probably be connected using S-video.

For your purposes, you'll be best served by a DVDR that has a HDD. The HDD gives you easy and reliable recording over just a DVD disc recorder. If you have a rec. problem on a disc, which are not 100% reliable (can make "coasters"), you're out of luck.

Recording and playing at the same time are possible with a HDD, which might come in handy in a VC app. You can search by time in a flash with a DVD or HDD, rather than the tedious FF or REW of a VCR, since DVD is digital...and no rewinding required.

If you need DVD copies to hand out or store, they can be made from the HDD at high speed (~10 min ea.).

Right now, the only HDD units readily available are the Polaroid 01061A (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=839036) and the Philips 3575H (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=830253). (See the linked threads.)

The Philips is prob. the best choice at $298 from Wal-Mart. The Polaroid is also at Wal-Mart and is cheaper.

You got it, I failed to mention HDD as a requirement.

In case you hadn't heard, since DVDRs are now required to have an ATSC tuner (or none at all) the best DVDRs that were on the market just a few months ago are gone. This includes Panasonics, Toshibas, and Pioneer 640s, like I have. If you really want the best available now, you can go online to B and H Photo Video, and they offer several international versions of the Pioneer, that are no longer available in US versions. They have lots of features, and huge hard drives, but they aren't cheap. Also, you only get a 90 day warranty, from B&H, not from Pio, since they aren't US models. But, they ARE the best commercially available at the moment. We are all hoping that the best manufacturers will return to offering good units with HDDs, next year, but that is JUST a hope.

I see that Circuit City no longer lists the Panasonic DMR-EH75V (80GB HDD, VCR, no ATSC tuner) as available via Web order, only for purchase from stores that still have stock. That means only four out of ten stores within about 80 miles from me. And they don't offer discounts at the moment, just their "regular" $520 price. I'm glad I grabbed one three months ago when CC was still offering discounts and a rebate.

Based on the replies I'll figure out what to buy.

Thanks,

Mike