I own a JVC DR-MV7S that decides to keep switching the display mode back to 480i that my TV won't display thru HDMI. Now, over the last month or so, it decides to keep ejecting DVDs, different brands of RW and pre-recorded titles (to discount the media as the problem). If you reinsert it enough times, it will finally work. But is useless for relying on a recording while you are out.

So, I am thinking about just replacing this pita and all I see are gripes about every unit available - freeze ups, incompatibilites, junk, etc. Am I to assume there are no good DVD recorders available? Is it back to (gasp!) my VHS recorder? I haven't yet look into HD recorders, but I am betting I am going to find the same gripes. These companies should be ashamed of themselves, but like sheep, we'll keep buying their junk.

So, I am thinking about just replacing this pita and all I see are gripes about every unit available

People only come here to post there problems, just as you have done. You can't assume that just because someone has posted about a problem in a make and model that all units made by that company are bad. I am not thrilled with the current offerings but if I really needed a new DVD recorder I would go with a major brand such as Panasonic. If you need a HDD model then you have to go with Phillips or Polaroid but it doesn't sound like you are looking for a HDD model so you should have several good models to choose from.

I bought 3 Panasonic HDD models several years ago and I am very happy with those recorders. I may never buy another DVD recorder. They only have to last probably 10 more years to outlast me because I am old. I really don't think we will see much to lust over in DVD recorder offerings in the next 10 years but thats OK with me. If I was young I would be a little bummed out.

Dave

Well this is one reason I check different websites for reviews on DVD recorders or combo units I'm considering. When I first bought my Panny ES40 I wasn't sure I made the right move cuz I'd heard stories of problems with it. But I haven't had too many problems, the only I've had was a more recent one with the heads and probably a result of my recording over 200 or so DVDs, copying old home movies to DVD, etc. My VCRs and DVD recorders are workhorses in my home.

Like Dave said people (like me) come here to post about problems they're having with their units. There are, however, the occasional posts praising this model or that. Just gotta weed thru it.