I researched these about six months ago and narrowed it down to the Panasonic DMR-EH55 and the Pioneer DVR-640H, which were both available at a little below MSRP at several sites, including Amazon.

Now, the Panasonic (my preferred model) goes for $1400-2400 at Amazon (only 2 units available, both in the 'marketplace', not directly from Amazon). Can't find it anywhere else. I see from another thread that HDD recorders aren't being made anymore (not sure if that's permanent and final), which has tilted the supply/demand equilibrium.

So, does anyone know where I can find either of these models near MSRP? If not, are there other models out there I should consider, that are actually available at MSRP?

Thanks,

Chris

If you would like a DVD, HDD, and VHS, look into the Panasonic DMR-EH75V. I have a used one for sale in my thread below:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=865568

opieandy, you may want to check B&H PhotoVideo. They have several international models of Pios, similar to the 640. Some have humongous HDDs, all will also record and play PAL, as well as NTSC. Drawback - only a 90 day warranty from B&H, not a full Pio warranty. They aren't cheap, but are better than the prices you quoted, and look to be fine machines.

All of last year's DVDRs have been discontinued by the manufacturers because of the FCC mandate that new units had to include digital TV (ATSC) tuners beginning March 1. New DVDRs have been trickling out since then. Only two have HDDs, and they are discussed in these threads:

Philips DVDR3575H (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=830253)

Polaroid DRA-01601A (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=839036)

It looks like people have been happier with the Philips.

I would buy an international Pio over either of them, if I needed a DVDR, and had the $. :D

I would buy the Philips 3575, and I have two of them... plus a Pio 640! :D

Try AudioAdvisor. They had some Pio 640s in their last catalog but limited
quantities.

[Edit: Never mind...nothing on website]

Geez all you Americans have to do is drive or fly up to Canada or take a vacation while you are at it! Maybe even some nice Canucks can send you a unit, but most likely they will ask for exorbitant prices.

Geez all you Americans have to do is drive or fly up to Canada or take a vacation while you are at it! Maybe even some nice Canucks can send you a unit, but most likely they will ask for exorbitant prices.
Ha! Good point, Can I get gravy with that?