A
DVD recorder is a device that is similar to a VCR except that it
records to a blank DVD as opposed to a video tape. Today's DVD
recorders can only record analog video. If your set top box is HDTV
compliant the source video must be down converted to standard
definition. HDTV down converted will still look very good compared to
the NTSC recordings on to VHS tapes.
Consumer grade DVD recorders can not record audio in Dolby
Digital or DTS. Analog audio is what is recorded and when played back
your receiver will decode the two channel audio using Dolby Pro Logic
to generate 4 channels of audio plus a subwoofer. These recorders are
great for storing video that was recorded on your Tivo when it starts
getting full. It is also a great way to preserve video of the kids or
vacations that sits in your closet just degrading with every passing
year.
You connect the DVD recorder to your system just like you
would a regular DVD player. There is just an additional step required
to connect the video sources that you would like record. These can be
VCRs, set top boxes, or even DVRs. Below are a few recorders that that
you may want to consider:
SONY RDR-GX315 - compatible with +R double-layer DVD discs, $250
Panasonic DMR-EH50S - built-in 100 GB Hard Disk, records on DVD-RAM/-R/-RW/+R Discs, built in NTSC tuner, TV Guide - $400
Toshiba SD-H400 Digital Media Server - built in Tivo, hard drive for Tivo recordings, IR Blaster for Cable and DBS Box Control, built in NTSC tuner - $299
None of the above recorders have digital video outputs.
Apple recently announced a new version of their entry
level Macintosh, the Mini. It's a step toward media center and
home theater functionality, but isn't quite there yet. We'll talk
about it on the show, and even provide some valuable insights into the
home life of one of the HT Guys.
