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I think for a simple setup (TV and this device)this would work fine, but for anything advanced, this isn't the device you want.I like to run all my components through a Sony STR-DG800 so it can do all my video and audio switching and conversion, and control the whole thing with a Logitech Harmony remote. Trying to program the remote for different activities (Watch TV, Watch DVR, Record TV) doesn't work well with this device, since it barely knows what mode it's in, and your amp will always be on "DVD" input for DVD, DVR, and TV. This can be confusing to other people who try to use your system.If you have an advanced setup, I'd buy/rent a DVR that is easier to program for recording, and then save to your separate DVD-R device when desired. Sure, this does what it says, it just doesn't do it with any sense of style. Mainly, the interface on this thing is terrible. It would have taken me *far* less time to setup and learn.
Now, even after repeated cleanings, it fails to read many of the DVDs it created, and getting it to create a usable new DVD is nearly impossible. This is very disappointing because I'm running out of brands whose products DON'T poop out after one year of use. I have the previous model RD-XS32, and was very satisfied with it until, like magic, it started malfunctioning right after its first birthday. I have always thought those extended warranties were useless but I'm beginning to wonder whether or not it's necessary protection these days.
This thing has locked up twice tonight, and at least once a week since I've owned it. Don't buy it.
Also, editing and dubbing programs is much more complicated than it should be. And even the volume button is difficult to use (you can't just hold it down, you have to keep pressing it). There are essential, simple features missing in this DVR. For example, there's no mute button on the remote control. I am sure there are better systems out there; this system is simply too complicated and just not well thought-out.
It would have been 5 stars if it recorded on rw-dvd's. The only drawback to this machine is the dvd only records on -r and -ram and you can not re record on -r dvd's and ram dvd's are too expensive. it was extremely easy to connect to the dish and tv and also very easy to use. For the basic recording, timer recording, and transferring to dvd you don't even need to read the manual. There is no reason to buy a tivo machine and pay for their service
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