AVS Forum banner
Cancel
  • Our native mobile app has a new name: Fora Communities. Learn more.

recording digital satellite on VHS

301 Views 6 Replies 4 Participants Last post by  zeicht, 
Z
can a VCR record channels / shows off a regular non-HD digital satellite source?
Save
Like
Status
Not open for further replies.
1 - 7 of 7 Posts
DrDon
Sure it can. You'd use the composite video and L R audio outputs from the satellite receiver and run those to the corresponding inputs on the VCR. Some VCRs can control a satellite box though use of an infrared "mouse," but for most, setting the VCR is a two-step process. You set the VCR to record from its line inputs for the time the program runs, then set the satellite receiver to switch to the appropriate channels at the appropriate time.


Or just buy a DVR unit for your respective satellite service and be done with it .


Doc
Save
Like
S
Some satellite receivers can also control the VCR's - usually limited to doing the equivalent of hit the play/record button, then the Stop button - IOW, you would leave your VCR turned on tuned to your A/V inputs.
Save
Like
Z
thanks guys for your replies....


what if your VHS player doesnt have a composite input? can you run the coaxial cable through the VHS player first then to the receiver to record shows?


i thought since digital satellite signals are "digital", you cant record it onto VHS tapes since it's analog...pls correct me if im wrong...


thanks again!
Save
Like
S
You mean through the RF connector - sure - no problem. Just tune your VCR to channel 3 or 4, depending on the output of your satellite receiver.


What the DBS receiver does is receive the digital DBS signals and them CONVERT them to NTSC (analog) so your TV (and VCR, DVD recorder, etc.) can display them. There is a possibility that the content provider may require your DBS provider to use Macrovision to inhibit recording on that particular channel/program.
Save
Like
S
Quote:
Originally posted by zeicht
thanks guys for your replies....


what if your VHS player doesnt have a composite input? can you run the coaxial cable through the VHS player first then to the receiver to record shows?


i thought since digital satellite signals are "digital", you cant record it onto VHS tapes since it's analog...pls correct me if im wrong...


thanks again!
You must have an antique VCR if all it has is a coax input. I didn't know there was such an animal.

For less than $150.00 you can get an SVHS VCR. For a few dollars more, you can get one that can control your sat. recvr. to easily record what you want. Why degrade the picuture from sat. by feeding the output via coax rather than composite. Of course, S-video is the best of the 3 options.

Using the VCR you describe to record and/or pass thru a coax signal to the TV is really a waste. It would be like buying a convertible and never putting the top down.


...mike
See less See more
Save
Like
Z
Quote:
Originally posted by Scooper
You mean through the RF connector - sure - no problem. Just tune your VCR to channel 3 or 4, depending on the output of your satellite receiver.


What the DBS receiver does is receive the digital DBS signals and them CONVERT them to NTSC (analog) so your TV (and VCR, DVD recorder, etc.) can display them. There is a possibility that the content provider may require your DBS provider to use Macrovision to inhibit recording on that particular channel/program.


thank you for answering my questions and pardon my being naive....u mean that signals that are coursed through the s-video and composite output are converted to analog? and what does DBS stand for?
Save
Like
1 - 7 of 7 Posts
Status
Not open for further replies.
AVS Forum
A forum community dedicated to home theater owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about home audio/video, TVs, projectors, screens, receivers, speakers, projects, DIY’s, product reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more!
Full Forum Listing
Explore Our Forums
Receivers, Amps, and Processors LCD Flat Panel Displays Speakers HDTV Programming Home Theater Computers
Top