Panasonic DMR-E55K Progressive-Scan DVD Recorder/Player (Black)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Good but has some major glitches
  • Serious Problem In Month Nine of Ownership/Use
  • Doesn't hold up
  • Nice DVR, a bit out of date now
  • EXCELLENT RECORDER IF USING THE RIGHT BLANK DISCS
Panasonic DMR-E55K Progressive-Scan DVD Recorder/Player (Black)

Manufacturer: Panasonic
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

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Product Features:
  • Records DVD-R, DVD-RAM for best of both worlds; plays DVD-Video, DVD-R, DVD-RAM, CD-R/RW, and MP3 CD
  • Up to 16 hours on a double-sided 9.4 GB DVD-RAM disc; up to 8 hours on a single-sided 4.7 GB DVD-RAM or DVD-R
  • Offers one-touch record, TimeSlip, chasing playback (watching a recording in progress from the beginning), on-disc video editing
  • Progressive-scan video output for seamless, flicker-free picture on high-definition and HD-ready televisions
  • Measures 16.9 x 3.125 x 11.2 inches (W x H x D)

ASIN: B0001G0FFI
Panasonic DMR-E55K Progressive-Scan DVD Recorder/Player (Black)

Product Description

It's a digital world. A world where sound surrounds you and pictures dazzle the imagination. It's a world where the excitement of the movies is captured and brought to life on a simple five-inch disc - the size of a CD. Welcome to the incredible world of DVD. As a leader in digital technology, Panasonic made possible and forever changed the face of home theatre. Panasonic has packed big-screen excitement into the world's smallest and lightest DVD player. Come and experience the ultimate in home theatre entertainment.PRODUCT FEATURES:DVD RAM recordings up to 16 hours (EP Mode, 9.4GB Disc);DVD-R recordings up to 8 hours (EP Mode, 4.7GB Disc);Time Slip Function;Chasing Playback;Simultaneous Play & Record;One Touch Record & Play;Direct Navigator;Play list;NTSC Tuner with VHF, UHF, CATV Coverage;Includes VCR Plus+ Programming;Visibility Modulation Technology;Hybrid VBR: Variable Bit Rate Technology;20-bit Dolby Digital A/D 2-Channel Recordings;3 Line Inputs with: Composite, S-Video, L & R Audio;5-Mode Recording Modes;Progressive Scan 480P/480I Video Playback;Compatible Formats: VCD, DVD, DVD-R & DVD-RAM;Composite, S-Video, Component Video Outputs;Compatible Formats: CD, CD-R/RW1, DVD-Audio (2ch), DVD-R & DVD-RAM;Built-In: 96kHz 24-bit Dolby Digital & DTS decoders, 2-Channel Decoders;DTS & Dolby Digital Compatible Optical Output;MP3 Playback (music files on CD-R/RW).

Amazon.com Product Description

Panasonic's DMR-E55K DVD player/recorder grants unprecedented recording time on double-sided 9.4 GB recordable DVDs--up to 16 hours, or 8 hours per side (and on standard 4.7 GB discs, in EP mode). The DMR-E55K's joint support of DVD-RAM and DVD-R media provides the best of both worlds: DVD-R for the highest compatibility (letting you share video recordings with virtually anyone with a DVD player) and DVD-RAM (for rewritability and benefits like TimeSlip, chasing playback, and simultaneous play and record). DVD-RAM offers the perfect method for recording and rerecording favorite programs--over 100,000 times on the same disc. Using DVD-RAM, you can also edit your videos on a multimedia computer with video editing/production software.

You can take DVD-RAM discs out of their protective cartridges and play them on PCs equipped with a 4.7 GB/9.4 GB DVD-RAM drive or DVD-ROM drive that's compatible with 4.7 GB/9.4 GB DVD-RAM. In addition to an attractive price tag, the feature-rich DMR-E55K offers the benefits of progressive-scan video playback (for use with high-definition and HD-ready TVs), MP3 CD playback, enhanced time-shifting, and instant access times.

With instant recording onto a DVD disc, there's no need to have to find blank space, as with a VHS tape. Just press record and the unit will automatically find space on the disc, much like a computer's disk drive. Panasonic's Time Slip feature lets you replay a scene recorded earlier while a program is still in progress, without disrupting the recording process. And chasing playback lets you watch from the beginning a show whose recording is still in progress.

You can easily transfer your favorite VHS tape recordings to space-saving discs. Personal movie libraries and family videos can be archived, preserved, easily cataloged and accessed, and even edited right from the disc.

Input TBC (time base corrector) removes jitter from the input signal, while 3D Y/C separation circuitry precisely separates the luminance (Y) and chrominance (C) portions of the video signal to minimize dot crawl and color smearing caused by interference between the video signal's Y and C color subcomponents. These functions are particularly effective when recording from analog video sources such as a conventional VCR and camcorder. Combined with the 3D DNR applied during playback, the result can be a surprising restoration of image quality from old videocassettes.

Connections include component-, composite-, and S-video outputs, multiple composite- and S-video inputs, an optical digital-audio output for surround-sound passthrough to a compatible (Dolby Digital/DTS 5.1) audio/video surround receiver, and RCA stereo analog audio inputs.

Progressive Scanning
Progressive scanning, otherwise known as 480P (p=progressive), creates a picture signal with double the scan lines of a conventional interlaced picture, 480I (I=interlaced), to create a noticeably sharper image. The 480P image offers higher picture resolution and eliminates virtually all motion artifacts. Even on large screens, the progressive scan lines are barely noticeable and picture flickering is greatly reduced, so you can enjoy extended viewing without eye fatigue. There are also many advantages to progressive conversion. Progressive-scan DVD players can handle both progressive and conventional interlaced video.

The Benefits of Progressive Vs. Interlaced Scanning

Standard DVD-Video players use interlaced scanning to produce a picture. Interlaced scanning combines two fields to generate a picture of 525 scan lines (480 of which are displayed). Your television projects an interlaced image by first scanning the 240 odd-numbered lines of one field (in 1/60th of a second), followed by the 240 even-numbered lines of the other field (in 1/60th of a second). So, it takes two fields to build one frame of video.

Progressive-scan DVD players have a progressive video processor, which enables all 525 lines (480 of which are displayed) to be scanned at the exact same time. A television with 480P component inputs can completely scan the entire image in 1/60th of a second, so it only takes one field to build one frame of video. The result is a smoother and sharper picture, with high resolution and no motion artifacts.

What's in the Box
DVD player/recorder, remote control, remote batteries, user's manual, and a stereo analog audio interconnect/composite-video cable.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Good but has some major glitches.......2006-02-25

I've had this DVD Recorder/Player for a little over a year now. It was extremely easy to hook up right out of the box and the manual actually makes sense if you actually read it. Very clear picture and sound quality, even when recorded on the lowest setting. The system is very user friendly and self-explanatory. Great price for the features you get including a simple to use timer, remote, write speed selection, disc and segment names, numerous audio selections,etc. I've no complaints whatsoever about the DVD Player, just the recorder that has issues from time to time.

My main complaint is that it tends to be glitchy every so often. It has little fits where it runs a "self check" that seems to last FOREVER. You usually have to manually hold the power button down for about 3 minutes to get the machine to reset and stop the self check. Also, I've used numerous types of DVD-R media (with various write speeds) and DVD-RAM discs and I've had SEVERAL discs just spontaneously erased for no reason, which needless to say is completely irritating and frustrating, especially if you had something you wanted to save. This seems to effect the DVD-RAM discs more often, regardless of the age of the disc or the manufacturer (even Panasonic). The disc finalization has also failed several times, leaving you with a disc that can only be played in this recorder because it can not be recognized in any other player. Once the finalization fails, forget it. This doesn't occur all the time and does tend to happen more frequently with discs with higher write speed (8X).

Overall, I think it is a decent machine for the price if you are patient and don't record anything that you want to keep forever because you just never know if you'll ever see it again. If you do get this machine forget using something with a high write speed because chances are it will eventually cause a problem. The good news is that you can use just about any type of DVR-R even the cheap ones, IF the write speed is low (no higher than 4x).

1 out of 5 stars Serious Problem In Month Nine of Ownership/Use.......2005-09-12

In the ninth month of owning and using this model, suddenly the picture pops on and off.

I use the Y-R1-R2 cable into my HD television.

You'll be watching, and the picture goes on, off, on, off, on, off.

If I use the component cable (Yellow RCA with the red and white sound cables), it doesn't do it.

The problem must have to do with the HD-Out area.

I've checked the HD cable, using another DVD player. No problem.

Here's the kicker. The Panasonic authorized repair shop says there's nothing wrong.

Come again?

The shop says they couldn't find anything wrong.

So, I brought it home, hooked it back up, and had the same problem within 30 seconds.

Stay away from this model. There is a significant problem, and not only won't they fix it, they don't acknowledge it exists.

1 out of 5 stars Doesn't hold up.......2005-05-05

This should say it all: I just came back from the repair shop. When they saw me walk in with the unit the clerk said, "I can't believe how many of these units come in." This very model. I used it for a few months, made 20 or 30 recordings, then it just failed. I called tech report, told them the error message I was getting and they told me to bring it in. I have a feeling I'll be returning it often till the warranty expires and then I'll throw it out.

For what it's worth it worked well till its demise.

3 out of 5 stars Nice DVR, a bit out of date now.......2005-04-22

I've had my DVR for about 2 years now, and it's working wonderfully. I've never had a problem with it at all.

I understand that now there are newer products that may have more features. There is TiVo and Dish Network has DVRs available that all have more to offer than this unit. For instance, you can pause live TV and store several hours worth of programs on the hard drive of the newer models.

I've had a good run with this unit, but I am considering trading it in for a Dish Network DVR.

5 out of 5 stars EXCELLENT RECORDER IF USING THE RIGHT BLANK DISCS.......2005-04-04

I have had this player for several months and had nothing but good experiences uses it. I used Sony, TDK, and Panasonic blank DVD-Rs. Recently I purchased some new TDK blank DVD-Rs and had my first problems. The unit was flaky and would not record most of the time, while giving the Self Check indicator for several minutes. I read a review below and it mentions that 8x discs are not recommended for this recorder. The TDKs I bought are 1x-8x speed, so that appears to explain my problems.

I had used the Sony DVD-Rs mostly for the past several months and went back to them for this reason. However, a couple of days ago, I inadvertently bought a box of 1x-8x again, as I never really even paid attention to the record speed. The great news is that these new 1x-8x Sony DVD-Rs are every bit as stable and viewable as the older 1x-4x version of the same Sony DVD-Rs I was previously using. Therefore, I highly recommend going with the Sonys, as I have never had one lockup on dozens of DVD recordings using them, whether the speed of them is 1x to 4x or 1x to 8x. If you can find Panasonic DVD-Rs, I would assume they would be safe also. When the discs are compatible, the player is the best $250 investment I have ever made. For the money, there is no better performing DVD recorder out there.

Cobra GPS 500 TrueVue Anti-Glare GPS Screen Protector
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Cobra GPS 500 TrueVue Anti-Glare GPS Screen Protector

    Manufacturer: Lexerd
    ProductGroup: CE

    GPS System Accessories GPS System Accessories | Accessories & Supplies | Categories | Electronics | Cables | Cases | Vehicle Mounts
    Product Features:
    • Ultra Thin
    • Anti-glare
    • Guarantee To Preserve Original Color Tones
    • Heat, Water Resistance, Against Scratches and Shields Damage
    • Not Interfere with Touch screen Technology

    ASIN: B000WCIGD4
    Cobra GPS 500 TrueVue Anti-Glare GPS Screen Protector

    Hama - Storage enclosure - Hi-Speed USB
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Hama - Storage enclosure - Hi-Speed USB

      Manufacturer: Hama
      ProductGroup: Personal Computer
      Binding: Accessory

      Host Bus Adaptors Host Bus Adaptors | Drives & Storage | Computer Add-Ons | Computers & Add-Ons | Categories | Electronics
      ASIN: B000EORWVC
      Hama - Storage enclosure - Hi-Speed USB

      Product Description

      Hama is committed to developing and delivering products that achieve the highest performance at a most competitive price, within easy reach of everybody. Hama has dedicated manufacturing facilities and partners all over the world to meet the needs of all its customers for years to come.
      Hama - Storage enclosure - IDE/ATA - Hi-Speed USB
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Hama - Storage enclosure - IDE/ATA - Hi-Speed USB

        Manufacturer: Hama
        ProductGroup: Personal Computer
        Binding: Accessory

        Host Bus Adaptors Host Bus Adaptors | Drives & Storage | Computer Add-Ons | Computers & Add-Ons | Categories | Electronics
        ASIN: B000JID514
        Hama - Storage enclosure - IDE/ATA - Hi-Speed USB

        Product Description

        Hama is committed to developing and delivering products that achieve the highest performance at a most competitive price, within easy reach of everybody. Hama has dedicated manufacturing facilities and partners all over the world to meet the needs of all its customers for years to come.PRODUCT FEATURES:Hard disk housing for 2.5" IDE (ATA) hard disks with integrated 32in1 card reader and USB Hub (2-way);Harddisk and card reader can be turned on/off optionally;4 status LEDs (power / reader / HDD / Hub);To read and write the following memory cards: CF (type I & II), CF-ultra II, CF-pro, CF-pro II, CF Extreme, CF Extreme III, CF-PSP II, Microdrive, MStick, MStickPro, Mstick Duo, Mstick Pro Duo, Magic Gate, Mstick Magic Gate Pro, Mstick Magic Gate Duo; Mstick Magic Gate Pro Duo, SD, SD-ultra, SDC, SD-pro, SD-ultra II, MMC, HighSpeed MMC, MMC pro, MMC Plus, RS-MMC, Mini SD, T-Flash, SM, XD, XD (M).
        Hama - Storage enclosure - IDE/ATA - Hi-Speed USB
        Average customer rating: Not rated
          Hama - Storage enclosure - IDE/ATA - Hi-Speed USB

          Manufacturer: Hama
          ProductGroup: CE
          Binding: Accessory

          Host Bus Adaptors Host Bus Adaptors | Drives & Storage | Computer Add-Ons | Computers & Add-Ons | Categories | Electronics
          ASIN: B000JIBD1I
          Hama - Storage enclosure - IDE/ATA - Hi-Speed USB

          Product Description

          Hama is committed to developing and delivering products that achieve the highest performance at a most competitive price, within easy reach of everybody. Hama has dedicated manufacturing facilities and partners all over the world to meet the needs of all its customers for years to come.PRODUCT FEATURES:High-quality aluminum housing for 3.5" IDE (ATA) hard disks;Easy backup function: easy complete backup of all data just by pushing a button;Flexible data backup as the safety options can be manually changed.
          Hama - Storage enclosure - IDE/ATA - Hi-Speed USB
          Average customer rating: Not rated
            Hama - Storage enclosure - IDE/ATA - Hi-Speed USB

            Manufacturer: Hama
            ProductGroup: CE
            Binding: Accessory

            Host Bus Adaptors Host Bus Adaptors | Drives & Storage | Computer Add-Ons | Computers & Add-Ons | Categories | Electronics
            ASIN: B000EORWUS
            Hama - Storage enclosure - IDE/ATA - Hi-Speed USB

            Product Description

            Hama is committed to developing and delivering products that achieve the highest performance at a most competitive price, within easy reach of everybody. Hama has dedicated manufacturing facilities and partners all over the world to meet the needs of all its customers for years to come.PRODUCT FEATURES:Easy backup with just one push on a button;Flexible data backup;High-class aluminum enclosure for 2.5 hard disks;Mini-USB-2.0-high-speed connection;Backwards compatible to USB 1.1;Power supply via USB port.

            Exabyte 115.02502 VXA-2 160GB Packet FireWire External Tape Drive
            Average customer rating: Not rated
              Exabyte 115.02502 VXA-2 160GB Packet FireWire External Tape Drive

              Manufacturer: EXABYTE
              ProductGroup: CE
              Binding: Electronics

              Tape Drives Tape Drives | Tape Backup Devices | Drives & Storage | Computer Add-Ons | Computers & Add-Ons | Categories | Electronics
              Product Features:
              • Storage Capacity: 80GB (Native)/160GB (Compressed)
              • Data Transfer Rate: 21.6GBph (Native Backup)
              • Media Support: Exabyte VXA-2 80GB (Native)
              • Interfaces/Ports: 1 x IEEE 1394 - FireWire
              • Form Factor: External

              ASIN: B00062LT9S
              Release Date: 2007-09-05
              Exabyte 115.02502 VXA-2 160GB Packet FireWire External Tape Drive

              Product Description

              80 160GB 8MM VXA-2 EXT E BUNDLE WITH X23 MEDIA

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