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It takes over 3 seconds tochange channels if you press the channel up/down too fast it locks upand you have to unplug to cycle the power. I have this for over 6 months and it locks up when I use the remote tochange channels too fast or other functions, I have to unplug it to getit back, and yes I have update the firmware. The analog tuner can nottake a strong signal on channels 7 and 9, I had to put a 10db pad in.
You need the remote to operate the machine. You have to go into fuctions and program the managment each time you use it or it records in XP ( 1 hour only ). It warms up and turns off like an old pc.Even changing channels is a wait. VHS works well on Analog broadcast. I have yet to get a full 6 hours of recording as promised, probably due to the formating of disk by the unit.
Like most Panasonic operating instructions be prepared to call tech support. You must use dvd-Ram disk to get full use of recording. This product is like dial up internet it is slow. DVD+RW works but you cannot set recording speed and leave it like VHS. Except for being so slow the tuner is good for both Analog and DTV.
It will not record DTV on VHS. It is claimed to have an instant on funtion with a warning that it uses more power and I would suspect cuts the life of the unit short.
One quick review though and I started converting my home videos to DVD. I rate it 4 stars for 2 reasons - the player is really loud and because it takes awhile to warm up. The manual does provide instructions for the latter but then the player requires extra power even when turned off. I was a little leary before I purchased because another review described recording as difficult, but it had the best reviews in the price range so I purchased anyway. The connection was really easy but I had to read the manual to be able to operate the player. I still recommend for the price.
I then set several programs from my cable network to record. It did just what it was programmed for, and these recordings were also very good.
Upon returning home, I checked and all programs were recorded and when played back, were of very good quality. I used the 6 hour EP mode, as the directions indicated that using the 8 hour EP mode may result in poor sound quality.The recordings were erased after viewing and new programming was set to record.
I recently purchased this product from Amazon.com and received it promptly via their free shipping option. I have tried the VCR recording mode also and have been quite happy with those recordings also.Since I am not hooked for digital cable or over the air programming, I have only used the analog tuner for recording.
It was very easy to set up and after spending about 1 hour reading the instructions, I was ready to try recording with it. I instered a blank DVD + RW, and was prompted to format the disk which only took about 3 minutes.
The only drawback is that it does NOT have an HDMI output, but neither does the TV I have it hooked to, so no big deal for me, but it may bother those who do have HDMI available on the TV.A GOOD VALUE FOR THE MONEY.
Excellent device with amazing clarity. The only fault is the manual is short on detail in some areas while overly detailed on others.
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