DVD/HDD recorder recomendations

john88alan · 08-15-08, 02:20 AM

Greetings!

I have a dying E80 and my E85 died tonight

I need your help finding a new DVD-R/-RW recorder which must have a HDD. I would prefer a unit that also has:
1. a digital ATSC tuner
2. basic HDD editing capabilities (ala Panasonic - shorten, divide, timers)
3. high speed dubbing from HDD to DVR and DVD/-RW to HDD
4. flexable recording time (not restricted to XP, SP, LP, etc.)
5. able to at least play RAM discs - although I can copy these to -R or -RW discs on my computer if need be.

What am I missing? Of course upconversion and HD capablilities would be nice, especially if it can upconvert going when burning to DVD.

Am I dreaming about such a device. I've seen the Philips 3576 and it seems to do most of what I want (not sure about the flex time recording), but Philips did not have a very good reputation the last time I read this forum, which to be fair was 4 or 5 years ago.

Any advice on what I should look at would be very much appreciated. Also, best place to look for a good price and reputable customer service - although this may not be allowed. I don't want to break any rules.

Thanks for any guidance you can give. I've had 3 Panasonic DVD/HDD combos and now understand why they don't make them anymore. They were GREAT when they worked, but when they don't...good luck.

Thanks again!!!

wajo · 08-15-08, 02:40 AM

Check this out.

Westly-C · 08-15-08, 09:38 AM

An addition option is to send them in to the Panasonic Service Center in Elk Grove Illinois. For a flat fee of $130, they'll fix any out of warranty Panny recorder.

john88alan · 08-15-08, 11:11 AM

Thanks Wesley - that is a real option.
My E85 just says PLEASE WAIT when it is plugged-in and after a few hours I got tired of waiting!!!

tcat · 08-15-08, 11:49 AM

Anyone have a Dish VIP722 here? I have an old E80H (very good condition), and was wondering if the new Phillips DVDR would be a better fit for the VIP722. I currently have the E80H at TV2 location (TV2 coax into E80H out to 4:3 TV). I can get letterboxed recording that I have to zoom. I'm thinking moving it (or buying a Phillips) to TV1 S-video. I'm mainly trying to back up HDTV content from DVR, onto 16:9 (480i) DVDs (then playback through OPPO 980 upconverted to 1080p).

I use to have an SA8300 and had nothing but problems getting a 16:9 image without zooming. From what I've read about the Phillips unit, it's much easier to get recording aspects correct. Is this true?

wajo · 08-15-08, 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tcat

Anyone have a Dish VIP722 here? I have an old E80H (very good condition), and was wondering if the new Phillips DVDR would be a better fit for the VIP722. I currently have the E80H at TV2 location (TV2 coax into E80H out to 4:3 TV). I can get letterboxed recording that I have to zoom. I'm thinking moving it (or buying a Phillips) to TV1 S-video. I'm mainly trying to back up HDTV content from DVR, onto 16:9 (480i) DVDs (then playback through OPPO 980 upconverted to 1080p).

I use to have an SA8300 and had nothing but problems getting a 16:9 image without zooming. From what I've read about the Phillips unit, it's much easier to get recording aspects correct. Is this true?

The Philips 3576 will record a WS image IF your VIP722 sends a WS signal, but since the E80H doesn't see that, it sounds like the box either doesn't send a WS signal via analog OR there's some box setting for it, like "stretch".

You can check/verify box output by connecting directly to your TV and test various settings, if any, to see whether the box can or can't send a WS signal via analog S-Video or composite?

ch256 · 08-15-08, 12:12 PM

Philips does not do flex recording and naming a title can be a real pain. A much more trying experience than with a panasonic.
Even the timer entries cannot be named until after they are recorded.
I just got my old panny back from IL under the fixed rate repair service.
I would suggest you try that for one unit and see how it works out.
I sent it out from a UPS store at my expense (for $20) with the $130 money order and a detailed note stating that I wanted the fixed rate repair program.
2 weeks later it was back and working like new.

tcat · 08-15-08, 12:18 PM

Thanks. I believe the VIP722 does send WS from all its TV1 outputs. Like I said I have it at TV2. The TV2 output is downressed 4:3 (so it acts a lot like my old SA8300 STB). I just haven't got around to moving the E80H to TV1 S-video to try it. I'll run an S-video cable to my Plasma tonight to make sure it's 16:9. In that case does it matter whether I have an E80H or 3576?

Quote:

Originally Posted by wajo

The Philips 3576 will record a WS image IF your VIP722 sends a WS signal, but since the E80H doesn't see that, it sounds like the box either doesn't send a WS signal via analog OR there's some box setting for it, like "stretch".

You can check/verify box output by connecting directly to your TV and test various settings, if any, to see whether the box can or can't send a WS signal via analog S-Video or composite?

wajo · 08-15-08, 12:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tcat

Thanks. I believe the VIP722 does send WS from all its TV1 outputs. Like I said I have it at TV2. The TV2 output is downressed 4:3 (so it acts a lot like my old SA8300 STB). I just haven't got around to moving the E80H to TV1 S-video to try it. I'll run an S-video cable to my Plasma tonight to make sure it's 16:9. In that case does it matter whether I have an E80H or 3576?

No, I don't think it'll matter, but you'll know for sure when you connect the E80H to TV1. You wouldn't use the 3576's digital tuners as long as you have sat service.

DigaDo · 08-15-08, 12:51 PM

John88alan,

The corporate Panasonic Service Center in Elk Grove Village IL handles warranty and out-of-warranty repairs in a prompt and efficient manner. They and only they are Panasonic experts with access to all the parts necessary to bring a Panasonic back to new or better than new condition.

For service/repair within the warranty period call Panasonic Customer Service at 1-800-211-7262. Customer Service will provide you with a RMA and shipping information through the "Panasonic Account" at a UPS Store. Do not allow Customer Service to talk you into taking your Panasonic to a local "authorized" shop. You will regret such a decision. If necessary, insist upon service/repair at the Panasonic Service Center in Elk Grove Village IL.

I must repeat, the corporate Panasonic Service Center at Elk Grove Village is the only location with Panasonic experts and all the necessary parts in one location.

Panasonic's out-of-warranty $130 flat-rate repair includes parts and labor and return shipping from Elk Grove Village. Call 1-888-439-2676 for more information concerning the $130 flat-rate repair and the shipping procedure for out-of-warranty products. Some Panasonic owners have reported that it is necessary to insist on the $130 flat-rate repair in order to initiate that process. Others have found some Panasonic representatives resistant to initiating the flat-rate return process. Some Panasonic owners have found it necessary to return the product without a Return Authorization. If Panasonic attempts to have you to agree to an "estimate," then any work will be performed at the full price for parts and labor, potentially a very expensive repair. The flat-rate is exactly that, your total cost will be $130. Include a letter with your Panasonic that describes the machine's problem(s). That letter should clearly state that you want the $130 flat-rate repair and that you are enclosing the $130 payment. Keep photocopies of all these documents and your check/money order. In the event that Panasonic does implement the flat-rate repair process on the phone they may take your credit card information and charge the $130 up front or after the machine has been received. In that case Panasonic may provide, through an email or a fax, a Return Authorization with shipping information or an emailed link to a bar code for use at the UPS Store.

For warranty or out-of-warranty repair be sure to use the original Panasonic packaging or provide your own packaging to avoid shipping complications at the UPS store. (A CD Freaks poster reported that shipping through the "Panasonic Account" could not be used if it was necessary to purchase packaging at the UPS store.)

This is the corporate Panasonic Service Center information:

Panasonic Service Center
1590 Touhy Ave
Elk Grove Village, IL 60007

1-888-439-2676

Avoid "Panasonic Authorized Service" locations that service many brands, specializing in none. They many not have a service manual or parts for your product. They may charge whatever they please to service or repair out-of-warranty products. If parts are needed be prepared to wait for an extended period. Some parts may no longer be ordered by "authorized" shops. I have read many posts (on this and other forums) from those learning this lesson the hard way.

I must repeat, Panasonic experts and all the necessary parts to return a Panasonic to new or better than new condition are found only at the corporate Panasonic Service Center in Elk Grove Village, Illinois.

john88alan · 08-15-08, 09:16 PM

Thanks DigaDo!

Would anyone care to recomend a Pio model and where I should look to buy?

Getting the Panny fixed is a great idea, but with these units seemingly disappearing from the US marketplace, I'd like to get a new unit - just because!

I will contact Panasonic for the FLAT RATE repair...Thanks again...

kjbawc · 08-16-08, 04:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by john88alan

Thanks DigaDo!

Would anyone care to recomend a Pio model and where I should look to buy?

Pios are no longer available in the US. They ARE available in Canada, at places like Future Shop, and Best Buy Canada. I think the current models are the 560 and the 660. There are some threads about them here. Also, they are similar to the Pio 640 (which I own and love) which has a couple of threads here. So, if you live in, or near, Canada, or have a friend there who will ship to you, check out those Pios!

Church AV Guy · 08-18-08, 01:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by john88alan

Thanks DigaDo!

Would anyone care to recomend a Pio model and where I should look to buy?

Getting the Panny fixed is a great idea, but with these units seemingly disappearing from the US marketplace, I'd like to get a new unit - just because!

I will contact Panasonic for the FLAT RATE repair...Thanks again...

New Panasonic and Pioneer DVD recorders can be purchased in the US from World Import here. They are inernational models, but I have been happy with my EH67. It works just like my EH55, except for the phrase save feature. And no, it does not have a digital tuner. I don't know if the Pioneer recorders have a digital tuner or not, there are several there with hard drives to look at. Their might also be some at J & R, and B & H.

Rammitinski · 08-19-08, 01:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Church AV Guy

I don't know if the Pioneer recorders have a digital tuner or not....

No - no ATSC/QAM tuners. But they do have NTSC ones.

08-15-08, 02:20 AM	#1 \| Link	<a href='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adclick.php?n=a4ac4393' target='_blank'><img src='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adview.php?what=zone:30&n=a4ac4393' border='0' alt=''></a>
john88alan New Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Posts: 6	DVD/HDD recorder recomendations Greetings! I have a dying E80 and my E85 died tonight I need your help finding a new DVD-R/-RW recorder which must have a HDD. I would prefer a unit that also has: 1. a digital ATSC tuner 2. basic HDD editing capabilities (ala Panasonic - shorten, divide, timers) 3. high speed dubbing from HDD to DVR and DVD/-RW to HDD 4. flexable recording time (not restricted to XP, SP, LP, etc.) 5. able to at least play RAM discs - although I can copy these to -R or -RW discs on my computer if need be. What am I missing? Of course upconversion and HD capablilities would be nice, especially if it can upconvert going when burning to DVD. Am I dreaming about such a device. I've seen the Philips 3576 and it seems to do most of what I want (not sure about the flex time recording), but Philips did not have a very good reputation the last time I read this forum, which to be fair was 4 or 5 years ago. Any advice on what I should look at would be very much appreciated. Also, best place to look for a good price and reputable customer service - although this may not be allowed. I don't want to break any rules. Thanks for any guidance you can give. I've had 3 Panasonic DVD/HDD combos and now understand why they don't make them anymore. They were GREAT when they worked, but when they don't...good luck. Thanks again!!!

08-15-08, 02:40 AM	#2 \| Link
wajo AVS Special Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Posts: 8,618	Check this out. __________________ iGuide uDecide! 1-MAG 2160 2-HDD RECORDER COMPARISON CHART 3-INSERT IMAGE IN POST

08-15-08, 09:38 AM	#3 \| Link
Westly-C AVS Special Member Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: ExIsle Isle Posts: 1,618	An addition option is to send them in to the Panasonic Service Center in Elk Grove Illinois. For a flat fee of $130, they'll fix any out of warranty Panny recorder. __________________ Dazed and confused over high tech.

08-15-08, 11:49 AM	#5 \| Link	<a href='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adclick.php?n=a591f81a' target='_blank'><img src='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adview.php?what=zone:36&n=a591f81a' border='0' alt=''></a>
tcat Advanced Member Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Austin TX Posts: 870	Anyone have a Dish VIP722 here? I have an old E80H (very good condition), and was wondering if the new Phillips DVDR would be a better fit for the VIP722. I currently have the E80H at TV2 location (TV2 coax into E80H out to 4:3 TV). I can get letterboxed recording that I have to zoom. I'm thinking moving it (or buying a Phillips) to TV1 S-video. I'm mainly trying to back up HDTV content from DVR, onto 16:9 (480i) DVDs (then playback through OPPO 980 upconverted to 1080p). I use to have an SA8300 and had nothing but problems getting a 16:9 image without zooming. From what I've read about the Phillips unit, it's much easier to get recording aspects correct. Is this true? __________________ Thanks, Tom

08-15-08, 12:51 PM	#10 \| Link	<a href='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adclick.php?n=a591f81a' target='_blank'><img src='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adview.php?what=zone:36&n=a591f81a' border='0' alt=''></a>
DigaDo AVS Special Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Pacific Northwest. Posts: 2,571	John88alan, The corporate Panasonic Service Center in Elk Grove Village IL handles warranty and out-of-warranty repairs in a prompt and efficient manner. They and only they are Panasonic experts with access to all the parts necessary to bring a Panasonic back to new or better than new condition. For service/repair within the warranty period call Panasonic Customer Service at 1-800-211-7262. Customer Service will provide you with a RMA and shipping information through the "Panasonic Account" at a UPS Store. Do not allow Customer Service to talk you into taking your Panasonic to a local "authorized" shop. You will regret such a decision. If necessary, insist upon service/repair at the Panasonic Service Center in Elk Grove Village IL. I must repeat, the corporate Panasonic Service Center at Elk Grove Village is the only location with Panasonic experts and all the necessary parts in one location. Panasonic's out-of-warranty $130 flat-rate repair includes parts and labor and return shipping from Elk Grove Village. Call 1-888-439-2676 for more information concerning the $130 flat-rate repair and the shipping procedure for out-of-warranty products. Some Panasonic owners have reported that it is necessary to insist on the $130 flat-rate repair in order to initiate that process. Others have found some Panasonic representatives resistant to initiating the flat-rate return process. Some Panasonic owners have found it necessary to return the product without a Return Authorization. If Panasonic attempts to have you to agree to an "estimate," then any work will be performed at the full price for parts and labor, potentially a very expensive repair. The flat-rate is exactly that, your total cost will be $130. Include a letter with your Panasonic that describes the machine's problem(s). That letter should clearly state that you want the $130 flat-rate repair and that you are enclosing the $130 payment. Keep photocopies of all these documents and your check/money order. In the event that Panasonic does implement the flat-rate repair process on the phone they may take your credit card information and charge the $130 up front or after the machine has been received. In that case Panasonic may provide, through an email or a fax, a Return Authorization with shipping information or an emailed link to a bar code for use at the UPS Store. For warranty or out-of-warranty repair be sure to use the original Panasonic packaging or provide your own packaging to avoid shipping complications at the UPS store. (A CD Freaks poster reported that shipping through the "Panasonic Account" could not be used if it was necessary to purchase packaging at the UPS store.) This is the corporate Panasonic Service Center information: Panasonic Service Center 1590 Touhy Ave Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 1-888-439-2676 Avoid "Panasonic Authorized Service" locations that service many brands, specializing in none. They many not have a service manual or parts for your product. They may charge whatever they please to service or repair out-of-warranty products. If parts are needed be prepared to wait for an extended period. Some parts may no longer be ordered by "authorized" shops. I have read many posts (on this and other forums) from those learning this lesson the hard way. I must repeat, Panasonic experts and all the necessary parts to return a Panasonic to new or better than new condition are found only at the corporate Panasonic Service Center in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. __________________ "A ROSE BY ANY OTHER NAME WILL SMELL AS SWEET. BUT IT DOES NOT FOLLOW THAT WHATEVER WE CHOOSE TO CALL A ROSE WILL POSSESS THE ROSE'S FRAGRANCE." --Benjamin Breckinridge Warfield (1917) Last edited by DigaDo; 08-16-08 at 01:04 PM.. Reason: clarifying difficulties with the flat-rate out-of-warranty process

08-15-08, 11:11 AM	#4 \| Link
john88alan New Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Posts: 6	Thanks Wesley - that is a real option. My E85 just says PLEASE WAIT when it is plugged-in and after a few hours I got tired of waiting!!!

08-15-08, 12:12 PM	#7 \| Link
ch256 Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: outside Philly, PA Posts: 43	Philips does not do flex recording and naming a title can be a real pain. A much more trying experience than with a panasonic. Even the timer entries cannot be named until after they are recorded. I just got my old panny back from IL under the fixed rate repair service. I would suggest you try that for one unit and see how it works out. I sent it out from a UPS store at my expense (for $20) with the $130 money order and a detailed note stating that I wanted the fixed rate repair program. 2 weeks later it was back and working like new.

08-15-08, 09:16 PM	#11 \| Link
john88alan New Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Posts: 6	Thanks DigaDo! Would anyone care to recomend a Pio model and where I should look to buy? Getting the Panny fixed is a great idea, but with these units seemingly disappearing from the US marketplace, I'd like to get a new unit - just because! I will contact Panasonic for the FLAT RATE repair...Thanks again...