Product Description
Enjoy improved video and audio performance from your DVD collection with the DVP-NS77H/B upscaling DVD player featuring HDMI output. Enjoy upscaled 720p/1080i/1080p DVD video through HDMI output with Precision Cinema Progressive technology. One convenient HDMI cable delivers upscaled DVD video and digital audio, making complicated cable connections a thing of the past. For added convenience, BRAVIA Theatre Sync enables one-touch operation of the DVP-NS77H/B player and compatible with Sony TV's and components. It's a definite plus for any home-theater A/V system. 192 KHz / 16 bit Audio DAC / 96 kHz / 24 bit Digital Output Multi-Disc Resume - 6 discs A/V Sync - Allows for the alignment of the audio track to match the video HDMI Output with 720p 1080i and upconversion of DVD Media for play on a 1080p HDTV screen DVD (VR Mode) Playback (with CPRM) DVD Playback BRAVIA Theatre Sync - With the touch of a button operations that took several steps have been reduced to one Precision Cinema Progressive Technology 2 Precision Drive 3 System MP3 Playback on CD Power Requirements - AC 120V, 60Hz Remote Control Coaxial Audio Digital Output(s)1 (Rear); RCA Audio Output(s) 1 (Rear); S-Video Output(s) 1 (Rear); Composite Video Output(s) 1 (Rear); Component Video (Y/Pb/Pr) Output(s) 1 (Rear); Optical Audio Output(s) 1 (Rear); HDMI Connection Output(s)1 (Rear) Dolby Digital Decoding CD Playback - CD, CD - R, CD - RW DVD-R DL (Video Mode) Read Compatibility; DVD+R DL Read Compatibility; DVD+R Read Compatibility; DVD+RW Read Compatibility; DVD - R Read Compatibility; DVD - RW (VR Mode) Read Compatibility (with CPRM); DVD - RW Read Compatibility On Screen Display Dimensions (Approx) W X H X D - 17 x 1 9/13 x 8 5/16 Sony USA Limited Warranty - 1 Year Parts / 90 Days Labor
Customer Reviews:
Plays like it should.......2007-12-25
I've only had it for one weekend, but I am happy with it, and have become familiar with all of the features. Learning curve on all of the setup options aren't too tough to figure out with the good printed manual.
I love the thin profile. It is only about 2" tall. Looks sharp and doesn't take up too much space in my crowded audio pier.
It does what it was made to do: it plays DVDs well. Picture is sharp on my 106" projection screen. As good or better than other players I've owned. Color is good and image is sharp and bright. Like other reviews have stated, it is a bit slow to load.
It is nice to have the option to use HDMI, especially since the player will output the 5.1 digital signal through the HDMI cable along with the video signal. Fewer wires are always good. Buy a cheap HDMI cable at amazon along with the unit rather than going to a store. HDMI cables are very overpriced at most brick and mortar stores (a decent cable should not be over ~$15). HDMI is full digital, not analog, so a signal is a signal. Monster cables don't matter with digital signals.
The player comes with the useless triple RCA yellow-red-white composite cable that is good only for very poor quality video. You will need to buy a good quality component cable or an HDMI cable.
I can't speak to the up-scaling because I'm using it with my 480p theatre projector. I didn't try it with my HD monitor. Honestly I can't imagine why it would be any better than letting the monitor/television upscale it for you. HD monitors upscale 480p signals fine.
The one thing I don't like is the same thing I don't like about every player I've ever owned. When DVDs end they return to the menu and repeat forever, while the motor continues to spin the disc. You only have to turn off the monitor and amplifier to make the mistake of allowing the thing to run for hours/days looping the menu over and over. Why manufacturers can't make machines that will shut down after a few repeats of the menu is beyond me (or allow the menu to exist in a small RAM chip where it doesn't have to spin the disc infinitely). This is how my last two players died. Make sure it is really off or it will die in no time.
A good player. Not a great value at $90, but not terrible. You can get a nearly identical Sony player without HDMI for $20-$30 less. Decide whether HDMI connectivity is worth $25 before you go with this one.
Good for now.......2007-12-24
This DVD player is a good value and has the HDMI jack which goes well with my Sony Bravia. I will wait to see who wins the DVD HD format (Blue Ray or HD/DVD) & then upgrade.
Great DVD player for the price.......2007-12-24
This is a great little DVD player that will upconvert (HDMI cable required) all by itself. It works very well with my harmony remote too. The best part is that it offers fiber-optic output for audio.. so for the first time I am getting true 5.1 surround instead of the onkyo make believe kind. The remote is a run of the mill sony device that hasnt been updated in about a decade. I dont use it (get a harmony, they are AWESOME)!
Why not 5 stars? its a bit on the slow side and the automatic resume function is not as easy to use as you might think. I dont expect (and I wouldnt use them..) cables to come with anything like this, so no points lost for that issue.
All in all, I like it and I would buy it again
Good functionalty, except for very poor controls.......2007-12-22
Like many components made nowadays, this unit is handsome, but not very functional in design. The controls are hidden, and are black, just like the entire front. The tiny symbols on the keys are invisible unless the room is well lighted and the viewer is very close, and the user must be above the level of the player to read the symbols, because they are only on the upward-facing surfaces.
In the dark, nothing at all is operable. There are not even any distinctive parts which one could feel by touch. So, all in all, this control set-up must have been designed by modern artists (as of the 1960s), not by engineers with any practical sense; and I guess that alternative designs were never tried out in practice.
There is a remote control (yes, another remote control to clutter your room), but it also does not work in the dark without a flashlight.
I guess that Sony should not be singled out for these failings, because most modern entertainment equipment is similarly designed to look good, but be impossible to use under normal operating conditions (i.e., in a darkened room). Ultimately, I guess that we tasteless and impractical customers are to blame.
This unit does play, and seems to work well. Once you get it going, you can then turn down the lights and watch, but be prepared to get up and run around turning on the lights if you wish to operate the controls.
A Great Value for an Upconverting DVD Player.......2007-12-21
I have the HDMI output from this upconverting DVD player connected to my Panasonic TH-50PX77U 720p Plasma HDTV. Outstanding picture quality from regular DVDs. The Sony works great, has some nice features, and you can't beat the price.
Product Description
Philips HDMI DVD Player - This home DVD player is a great way to get the most out of your current DVD movies. It features video upscaling, which boosts the video quality of your movies for high-definition displays. This higher definition signal can be passed digitally to your HDTV via the HDMI port. HDMI also offers you audio transmission via the same cable, giving you an easy one-cable connection to your TV or receiver. Picture CD Playback - with JPEG pictures Picture Enhancement - flip photos, rotate, zoom, slideshow with MP3 playback NTSC & PAL Playback (PAL playback requires a TV that also supports the PAL format) Aspect Ratio - 4 - 3, 16 - 9 Dolby Digital USB Port Ports - RCA Composite Out, HDMI Out, Digital Coaxial Out, Component Video Out Parental Control & Child Lock
Customer Reviews:
good deal.......2007-12-25
this product works well, DivX movies look good, but not as good as a normal dvd. I like the USB port, but it won't read a NTFS formated drive, only Fat 32 I think.
Upscaling doesn't work with component output.......2007-12-25
It's unclear in the description, but this DVD player *only* supports HD-upscaling using HDMI, not component cables (which many HDTVs depend on for HD signals). Just FYI.
Other than that, it seems to be good. I barely noticed any difference between 1080i (upscaled) and 480p (normal), but the quality's good either way.
DivX also works just fine, but there's definitely no post-processing (image enhancement); it's all "as is".
DVD Player review - not so great.......2007-12-24
There's a red line that goes through the screen when using this DVD player - it is pretty bad, and I wouldn't recommend getting it.
Its difficult to pay attention to the movies when you see this red line going through the screen...
Yet To See.......2007-12-21
This is perhaps the 11th or 12th DVD players that I have purchased. Each player lasts an average of about 2 years. This is the first Philips player I bought because I had good experience on other Philips brand electronics.
The player operates very quietly and offers good output quality. Its durability is yet to be proved by time.
However, this unit surely lacks of certain useful functions:
(1) It does not have play resumption. Once the "stop" button is pressed, the player returns to the beginning of the disk;
(2) The unit has no fast forward;
(3) I have players in three different rooms and I have a habit to turn off the player completely for energy conservation, even though it means very little. This unit only allows "play" and "standby" unless it is unplugged.
For the price and the easiness of setting to all region operation, it is a worthy buy!
ok for the price.......2007-12-17
I have been using it for one month. Does the job. The quality of the unit exterior seems very flimsy.
Average customer rating:
- little better than regular DVD player
- Excellent For the price.
- Nice little player
- seems pretty good !!
- Excellent for SACD, so-so for video
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OPPO DV-980H 1080p Up-Converting Universal DVD Player with HDMI and 7.1CH Audio
Manufacturer: OPPO Digital
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics
All
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DVD Players & Recorders
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Audio & Video
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Categories
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Electronics
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Onkyo TX-SR605 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver (Black)
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Onkyo HT-SR800 7.1 Home Theater Entertainment System (Black)
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Onkyo TX-SR705S 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver (Silver)
Product Features:
- High definition up-conversion up to 1080p Full HD resolution from standard DVD video discs. 480i/480p/720p/1080i also supported over HDMI
- Outstanding audio performance with 7.1-channel output and Dolby Digital Surround EX decoding
- Multiple playback formats, including DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, Super Audio CD with DSD, Audio CDs, HDCD, WMA, DivX and more
- High resolution picture slide show (HD-JPEG); USB 2.0 interface for video, picture and music playback
- Connections include HDMI, Component, Composite, S-Video, 7.1CH, 5.1CH, Stereo, Coaxial, Optical. Includes an HDMI cable
ASIN: B000UIA6YM
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Product Description
Prepare to be impressed by the OPPO DV-980H universal DVD player. Continuing the OPPO tradition of exceptional audio/video performance and great value, the DV-980H delivers a stunning picture and immersing sound for today's home theaters. Advanced video upconversion technology brings standard definition DVDs to life with 1080p "Full HD" clarity. Precision rendering from Super Audio CD, DVD-Audio, HDCD and regular CD creates enveloping acoustics with high fidelity. Complemented with 7.1-channel surround audio, high-resolution picture slide show and a convenient USB 2.0 port, the DV-980H helps you rediscover the treasures in your home theater.
Customer Reviews:
little better than regular DVD player.......2007-12-24
My OPPO 980 seems to have bit problem, it is freezing for 2-3 seconds for 2-3 times during one movie, last movie completely froze and have to restart player. Not sure if it is general problem or i got lemon.
But DVDs do look little better than my regular player, plus it plays PAL and NTSC both.
I do not think it is worth such high price, when you can get HD DVD player with as good upscaling for few more dollors (you also get 10 HD DVDs for free).
Excellent For the price........2007-12-23
I've tried many DVD players and this is the best one so far. Easy to use, excellent picture quality; and finally a decent remote.
Nice little player.......2007-12-23
This is a nice little player that will enhance the quality of your 480P DVD's. My TV is full 1080 and the Oppo enhances the picture with it's upscaling software. A breeze to use and set up.
Remember though that this player will NOT play HD DVD's. But it's useful for upscaling the image on those old movies.
seems pretty good !!.......2007-12-23
About to buy this soon...from all the reviews here and what I have heard from others it looks great...Oppo recommends the the 970 for a 32 inches tv (720p) but when I go to theier website it replaces with the 980H which I am not sure is good for my sony 32 inches (720p) tv or not..
also only the 981 seems to use the Faroudja chip...so is the 980 good ?
will call them on monday and find out...-:)
Excellent for SACD, so-so for video.......2007-12-20
Pros:
Bought it to play SACDs thru HDMI 1.2a ( with DSD support) and very happy with it for the purpose. Excellent quality of audio (24bit/192KHz DAC) cannot be obtaned elsewhere for the price.
Very nice packaging, good remote. Overall, great build quality for the money.
Cons:
I get noticeable artifacts on 40" LCD TV in 1080p. My 65-dollar Philips upscaling DVD player gets the job done better. I would not recommend this model if you do not care about audio features this player offers.
Average customer rating:
- Loving It!
- Oppo DV 981HD DVD Player
- Clear upscaling with no blocking or edge problems
- My experience is different....
- Superlative unit
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Oppo DV-981HD Universal DVD Player with HDMI, 1080p Up-Converting, DivX & SACD
Manufacturer: OPPO Digital
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics
All
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DVD Players & Recorders
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Audio & Video
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Categories
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Electronics
Upconverting DVD Players
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DVD Players & Recorders
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Audio & Video
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Electronics
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Accessories:
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Aluratek A8CHDMI6 - Video / audio cable - HDMI - 19 pin HDMI (M) - 19 pin HDMI (M) - 6 ft
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Universal Remote Control 24-Device Custom Programmable IR/RF Remote Control
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Gold-plated HDmi (f) To Dvi-d
Product Features:
- Offers HDMI interface, with Farudja HD upconversion output up to full 1080p
- Multiple playback formats, including DVD-Audio, Super Audio CS, Audio CDs, HDCD, WMA, and more
- Outputs in stereo, or in 5.1 surround sound
- S-Video out, digital coaxial, and optical audio outs--no component out
- Built-in equalizer, channel trim, and channel delay functions
ASIN: B000LU8A7E
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Product Description
The OPPO DV-981HD is the upconverting DVD player for the ultimate home theater experience. Built upon the highly regarded OPPO OPDV971H, the DV-981HD is ideal for high definition TV's and home theater projectors. The DV-981HD excels at making standard definition DVDs look great at high definition resolutions through the use of advanced upconverting technology that outperforms most TV's built-in upconversion capabilities. The DV-981HD makes it possible for you to enjoy your existing collection of DVDs as well as new DVD titles that will continue to be released for years to come.
Amazon.com Product Description
The DV-981HD is the latest incarnation in Oppo's highly aclaimed line of upconverting DVD players. It offers an HDMI interface (HDMI Specification 1.1), with HD upconversion ouput resolutions of 720p, 1080i, and full 1080p. This is Oppo's most full-featured player yet, and as such, it's not a DVD player for people with regular analogue sets. While the DV-981HD doesn't offer component output, and doesn't output standard or native resolution, it does represent one of the best (if not the best) upconverting DVD players out there, and it's perfect for people with HDTVs up to full 1080p who aren't ready to jump on the HD DVD or Blu-ray bandwagen. In addition to excellent upconversion, the DV-981HD offers playback of a whole host of formats including DVD-Audio, Super Audio CS (SACD), Audio CDs, HDCD, WMA, Kodak Picture CDs, all version of DivX including DivX6, as well as Xvid, .SRT, .SMI, .IDX, and .SUB file formats.
Audio Features
The DV-981HD outputs audio in stereo or in 5.1 channel surround, either via HDMI, or through the included 5.1 analogue outputs. Other connections include S-Video out, and digital coaxial and optical audio outs. It features 24-bit, 192 kHz high resolution audio D/A converters, supports virtual surround in six settings, and has built-in equalizer, channel trim, and channel delay functions.
Farudgja DCDi Technology
Rather than trying to build their own upconversion technology for this machine, the Oppo DV-981HD the DCDi Faruja technology from Genesis Microchips. In addition to upscaling a DVD's native 720x480 interlaced video to 480p, 720p, 1080i, or 1080p, Farudja technology also detects content that has gone through 3:2 pull down to convert film content to NTSC for video, and recreates the original frames by blending the fields back together. It then processes for any edit mistakes and reconstrucs an accurate signal, producing an image free of motion artifacts. The unique DCDi algorithm can also identify moving edges within an image and adjust interpolation at a pixel level to create smooth edges for on-screen objects, eliminating the jaggy edges that commonly result from other upconversion techniques. Farudja processing also uses a proprietary "TruLife Enhancement" technology to identify transitions in the image considered to be details such as skin texture, freckles or hair, and enhance those to bring more detail in an image to life on the screen. This approach avoids image artefacts common with the peaking filter approach used by other systems for detail enhancement. The Farudja system uses temporal filtering for noise reduction, and can achieve 6 to 10 dB of Noise reduction without introducing artefacts or losing sharpness in the image.
Connections:
- HDMI - High Definition Multimedia Interface: 1
- Analog Stereo Audio (Mixed 2-Channel Left/Right): 1 group (2 connectors)
- Analog 5.1 Channel Audio: 1 group (6 connectors)
- S/PDIF (IEC-958) Coaxial Digital Audio: 1
- S/PDIF (IEC-958) Optical Digital Audio: 1
- Composite Video: 1
- S-Video: 1
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No Component Video (YPbPr/YCbCr) on the DV-981HD model. This model is designed for use with a display device with HDMI or DVI digital video input.
Compared with Other Oppo DVD player models
At the time of this writing, Oppo also has the DV-970HD upconverting player, and their original OPD971H model. Of these three models, the DV-981HD is the only that upconverts to full 1080p, the other models offer upconversion to 720p or 1080i only. Both the DV-981HD and the DV-970HD offer Super Audio CD (SACD) playback, the OPDV971H does not. The other major difference to consider is that the DV-981HD and the OPDV971H both use Farudja processing for video upconversion. The DV-970HD uses a different upconversion system that may not be as full featured as the Farudja. For this reason Oppo recommends the DV-981HD, or the OPDV971H for use with larger screen HDTVs 50 inches or greater, while the DV-970HD is only recommended for HDTVs smaller than 50-inches. Oppo recommends the DV-970HD for use with external video processors or scalers, and suggests careful calibration of both the DV-981HD and the OPDV971H when used with DLP HDTVs. Both of these players are good for use with DLP HDTVs, but for the best picture, some setup time is required. For disply with a DVI input on your HDTV, an HDMI-DVI adapter is required with both the DV-981HD and the DV-970HD models.
What's in the Box
Oppo DV-981HD upconveting DVD player, a High-quality certified HDMI cable with gold-plated HDMI connectors, Remote control with "glow in the dark" keypad (batteries included), Stereo audio cable, Composite video cable, and User manual and warranty information.
Customer Reviews:
Loving It!.......2007-12-21
After my mother-in-law bought my family a Sony 40" Bravia, I knew I needed to purchase an upconverting DVD player for all my many standard Def. DVD's. At a friends recommendation, I went with a $99 Sony machine and right from the get go was not impressed. It was alright, but I was expecting more and some of the DVD's were rather fuzzy actually. After a lot of research I went with the Oppo DV-981HD Universal DVD Player with HDMI, 1080p Up-Converting, DivX & SACD and man is it great. First, it arrives in just a couple days from Amazon...and that is with the free shipping offer and at Christmas time! Then as soon as you open the box I was impressed with the cloth wrapping of the machine. Nice! Then I am impressed with it's sleek look and then its easy set up and then the blue light for the open button is nice when viewing in a dark room. Then I tried a sampling of about 5-6 DVD's...some old some new. Great! I even had my wife come compare a recently watched one on the Sony...she agrees. Much better. I have a 720p native resolution TV and I will say be sure to set the DVD player to whatever your's is, but after that just watch the obvious upgrade. And a bonus, the sound. The sound on movies and then last night I played some music CD's. Wow! Great sound, too. I know this machine costs more than some, but it is worth it.
Oppo DV 981HD DVD Player.......2007-12-21
This unit is as good as advertised. Near HD quality from regular DVDs. The price is a bargain for the quality of player. Highly recommend to those looking to upgrade but not ready to sink a fortune into Blu Ray or HD.
Clear upscaling with no blocking or edge problems.......2007-12-17
Just got the OPPO 981 and instantly my standard DVD's took on new life.
I can't tell much difference between HD SAT at 1080i and an OPPOlized DVD upscaled to 1080P.
Easy HDMI set-up with my Onkyo 705 as the switcher going into my Sharp Aquos 52" 92U LCD. No need for component outs.
Also has many sound and picture configuations. The audio is clean and lifelike.
Best DVD Upscaler on the market for the price!
My experience is different...........2007-12-12
I bought the Oppo after reading all of these great reviews. I own an uoconverting DVD player (1080i) which gave did ok with my 1080p TV set, but obviously there was room for improvement. So I hooked up the Oppo....huge dissappointment. The image WAS NOT as good as the one I had with my $70 upconverting DVD player. In fact, it was markedly inferior. Yes, I did hook it up with the HDMI cable....yes, I adjust the settings to 1080p....yes, I tried several different DVDs....I read the manual over and over....same result. I had no choice but to send it back.
Superlative unit.......2007-12-10
As other reviewers have so eloquently written, this is indeed an excellent DVD player. It is also a great CD player, with a smooth, neutral sound. As an added bonus, if you own any SACDs (Super Audio Compact Discs), the unit has the necessary circuitry to decode these, and the results are a revelation, providing that you have a modern A/V receiver and decent surround-sound speaker system. Pay careful attention to the setup instructions on pp 10-11 in the Oppo User Manual.
Product Description
The DMR-EZ47 offers high image quality in both recording and playback, easy operation, and improved networking capabilities. It comes equipped with the HDMI terminal, which allows easy, single-cable connection to compatible equipment. The DMR-EZ47 also offers Panasonic's proprietary VIERA Link functions for linked operation of other AV devices, and these functions are now even more convenient. It is now possible to control an optional DIGA recorder, when connected to a Panasonic VIERA TV, using VIERA's remote control unit. This provides convenient control over frequently used functions by using only VIERA's remote. By pressing the VIERA Link button on the remote, a DIGA menu screen can be accessed directly from the VIERA Link menu screen, to make recording settings or play a DVD. By combining intelligent i/p Conversion and 1080p Up-Conversion technologies, DIGA's 1080p technology renders high-resolution 1080p images from DVD movies and TV broadcasts to compatible TVs. The Accutune high-precision analog/digital tuner achieves stable signal reception even under poor signal conditions, such as when signals are reflected by surrounding buildings. The Accutune Digital Tuner is a high-performance hybrid tuner capable of receiving both digital and analog broadcasts. It uses a signal processor to effectively control noise and distortion, and its proprietary matching circuits allow it to transform and separate digital broadcasts into the appropriate digital or analog signals. With the built-in Digital Tuner, this will also allow you to record one digital broadcast program while watching a second program. The Tape input signal is automatically detected and optimized using Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) to provide an easy way to even more beautiful digital recordings from VHS tapes. Super Multi-Format Recording & Playback Digital Broadcast Capable - Built-in ATSC Tuner Automatic Program Information Acquisition Long Time
Customer Reviews:
Excellent Choice.......2007-12-18
Panasonic DMR-EZ47VK Up-Converting 1080p DVD-Recorder/VCR Combo with Built In Tuner
This product met all my expectations. Easy to use. I'm a 70 year old
female and I can understand the directions, which is no small feat. I
have copied some of my VHS tapes to DVD and they came out perfect.
Great for transferring home movies to DVD.......2007-12-17
My only reason for purchasing a DVD recorder was to transfer 8mm and VHS home movies to DVD and after reading various reviews on DVD recorders, I decided to purchase the Panasonic DMR-EZ47VK. This recorder is simple to to set up, simple to operate and the DVDs come out great. I have had the unit for about a month and transferred several VHS tapes to DVD +R media with terrific results.
So Many Problems--Where Do I Start?.......2007-12-17
Although this unit has a great set of features & capabilities, it has so many fundamental problems that it's given me nothing but headaches. I even bought a second unit to compare & found that it had *the same problems*! This is not a case of me getting unlucky & buying the 1 bad manufactured unit--these are flaws in the software & programming itself!
Many calls to Panasonic customer service (after looong waits & painful menu navigation & customer service reps who were not very helpful) resulted in 2 firmware upgrade discs being mailed to me in 8/07 & 11/07. They didn't fix the problems.
My unit is now at the local Panasonic authorized repair center, awaiting new parts, which will leave me without my player for about 3-4 weeks in total, if I get it back when they claim it will be done.
In no particular order, here are the problems:
1 - The unit freezes up frequently. I'll walk by, look at the clock, see that it's way off, press every single button on the unit & the remote to try to turn it on or get it to respond, but nothing happens. I have to unplug it & plug it back in to be able to use it again. It has missed recording so many scheduled TV shows because it froze up. The period of time between freezes ranges from a day to a month--totally random & inconsistent.
2 - While watchng DVDs, the big status window in the top right of my screen pops up occasionally, reminding me that I'm in DVD mode. Duh. This is very annoying. Sometimes it pops up every few minutes. Sometimes I can watch hours of movies with no pop up. Again, random.
3 - The SD card playback is sooooo slow that it's useless. I'm using a 4.0MP camera, with 2MB file size, and the time required to flip from picture to picture on the card makes a slideshow utterly impossible.
4 - The one-touch dubbing from VHS to DVD has given me huge headaches. First, it will abort the dubbing if you have a segment of static snow on your VHS in between the items on your tape. I'm trying to copy tapes of personal videos to DVD for archiving & easy access & sharing, but I have to babysit the machine to keep restarting the dubbing process.
5 - After dubbing a tape to DVD & following the directions carefully, I am unable to make the chapter manipulation menu appear. So, I'm stuck with chapter breaks every 8 minutes and cannot add/remove chapters, so I'm unable to make an easily-navigated DVD menu.
6 - After I figured out that I can manually stop my dubbing after each segment on my VHS tape, I had many hours invested & was on my way to making a DVD that had all the breaks in the correct locations to be able to generate a proper top menu. But then I came across one portion of my VHS tape where the machine refused to dub properly. 3.5 minutes into this section of tape (which is just like all the other sections, recorded on the same VCR), the unit stops recording, tells me that it's dividing the recording, rewinds the tape a bit, then starts recording a new DVD segment. This puts an illogical & unpleasant break in what is supposed to be continuous footage, and it adds an unnecessary chapter to the top menu. I tried this twice, with the same result. The manual shows that this should not happen.
7 - Unfortunately, unlike every other DVD player I've seen, the menu button on the remote pulls up a menu that lets you go to the DVD top menu. Usually the menu button on the remote just sends you to the disc's menu. Silly.
This product has given me so many headaches & made me *very* frustrated. When I get it back from the repair shop, I hope that Panasonic will give me some sort of refund, because I don't see how swapping out a circuit board will be able to fix what appears to be poor design & programming...but that's all the repair shop could recommend as a fix...
Just what I needed!!.......2007-12-17
After suffering through several months of poor quality videotapes (and occasional jamming when trying to eject tapes!), I decided to take the plunge with the Panasonic DVD/VCR combo unit. As others have noted, the instruction manual is nearly 100 pages ... but it doesn't matter, as this unit performs as well or better than I expected! DVD-RAM recording allows for chasing feedback of live programming, and one touch recording allows me to slowly convert my VHS library into a 21st century DVD library! Plus, I can easily burn DVD's directly from my Mini-DV tape palmcorder - fantastic!
good dvd/vcr combo.......2007-12-17
I like the way this dvd recorder copy my old vhs tapes. The outcome were clear. I connected the optical audio cable to my receiver and the sound was superb. The only con that I can say is that I have to use the av receiver every time I use it to get a sound. I tried several times not to use the receiver and it failed to give the audio. I also use the HDMI and the video is outstanding.
cannot get sound unless hooked up to an external device like av receiver.
Product Description
Enjoy upscaled 720p/1080i/1080p DVD video through HDMI output with Precision Cinema Progressive technology. One convenient HDMI cable delivers upscaled DVD video and digital audio, making complicated cable connections a thing of the past. For added convenience, BRAVIA Theatre Sync enables one-touch operation of the DVP NS77H/S player and compatible Sony TV's and components. Picture Navigation A/V Sync - Allows for the alignment of the audio track to match the video HDMI Output with 720P/1080i/1080p upscaling of DVD Media BRAVIA Theatre Sync 2 - With the touch of a button operations that took several steps have been reduced to one Precision Cinema Progressive Technology 2 Precision Drive 3 System MP3 Playback HDMI Technology (Upscaling of the Video Resolution Output to approach 720p/1080i/1080p) Noise Reduction Digital - to - Analog Converter 12 Bit, 108MHz DVD (VR Mode) Playback (with CPRM) DVD Playback Precision Cinema Progressive Technology SVCD Playback VCD Playback DVD + R DL Read Compatibility; DVD + R Read Compatibility; DVD + RW Read Compatibility DVD R Read Compatibility; DVD - RW (VR Mode) Read Compatibility (with CPRM); DVD - RW Read Compatibility; DVD - R DL (Video Mode) Read Compatibility Precision Drive 3 Digital - to - Analog Converter - 2 16 Bit, 192 kHz CD Playback (CD, CD-R, CD-RW) Dolby Digital Decoding Coaxial Audio Digital Output(s) 1 (Rear), RCA Audio Output(s) 1 (Rear), S-Video Output(s) 1 (Rear), Composite Video Output(s) 1 (Rear), Component Video (Y/Pb/Pr) Output(s) 1 (Rear) ,Optical Audio Output(s) 1 (Rear), HDMI? Connection Output(s) 1 (Rear) Remote Control Power Requirements - AC 120V, 60Hz Dimensions (Approx) Width X Height X Depth - 17 X 1 9/13 X 8 5/16 Limited Warranty - 1 Year Parts / 90 Days Labor
Customer Reviews:
Nice player!.......2007-12-23
DVDs look great! Has played everything I've thrown at it so far. Does take some extra time to load movies with extra content or bonus features, but I'm in no big hurry, it's relaxation time. One neat feature is that you can adjust playing speed in small increments. Kinda of cool for those longer movies like LOTR. Just don't spped up too much or it sounds like Alvin and the Chipmunks! Picture quality is great on my 46" Bravia. Added an Onkyo 7.1 HTB and I'm in heaven! I'm sure I'll get an HD or Blu-Ray player later on, but this one will do the trick for some time. Shipping was quick and it arrived in perfect condition. I would recommend this player if you're waiting for HD/Blu-Ray prices to drop, overall great buy!
Sony DVP-NS77H/S.......2007-11-24
I purchased 2 DVD players at the same time, however, I'm not up to date on the diferent types of DVD's - I just wanted one that worked and had a nice picture. In any event, I purchased the Sony and an OPPO DV-79HD. I like the Sony much better. It has some nice features, the quality seems good and it works on my Directv AV remote - which was important to me. I could not get the OPPO to work with the Directv receiver and the overall quality doesn't seem all that great. The Sony cost less and seems to be much better quality.
good product.......2007-11-05
good interim product while waiting for all the HD DVD players to come out and bring their price down. Dfinitely not blu-ray quality, not even comparable but definitely converts normal DVD's to 1080 i quality...so im happy...until i save up enough for the blu ray.
HDMI 1080--Awesome!.......2007-10-22
Awesome!
I've had the Sony DVP-NS77H a week. It performs flawlessly. I coupled it to my Sony KDL 40W3000 TV through the HDMI port and that was all it took. The only way I can explain the 1080p picture quality is: I watched Lawrence of Arabia, 1962 Oscar Award Winner for Panorama. I was spellbound by the majestic desert tans with sky blues and bloody red casualties. It's a new experience for a 3-score movie admirer. One additional expense: I bought and used the cheapest HDMI cable available $29.99 made by GE.
Impressed!.......2007-09-27
Installation was very simple. To connect to my receiver, I used an HDMI cable which was not included of course...but batteries for the remote were, yeah! My first observation is that the silver color matches beautifully with my Sony TV, Sony receiver and TV stand. Setup was easy with the on-screen menus that automatically navigate you through when hooking up for the first time.
The first thing I did of course was compare 720p to 1080i and I can clearly see the difference. It's even more amazing compared to 420p which is what I had previously with an old Toshiba. The player is capable of 1080p, but my TV is only capable of 1080i and of course the player automatically detected my TV's capability.
The next thing I did was burn a photo album on a CD+R and popped it in the player. A menu appears that allows you to navigate through the folders and files. Just hit the play button and it displays your pictures on the TV. This will make a fun slide show for our next family get-together.
I then tried the MP3 playback feature and it works pretty much the same as the photo playback. Navigation through your folders and files is easy. The audio quality is excellent!
One really small detail that I really liked and I give kudos to the Sony engineers for thinking about it, is that the stop, eject, and play buttons on the front of the player are designed to be viewed and pushed by someone standing over the player. My player is on the bottom shelf of my TV stand so it is about a foot off the ground. I don't have to sit on the ground to see the buttons!
In comparison to other DVD players I have used, I have used a Samsung up-scaling DVD player and I was very disappointed with the Samsung. I promptly returned it and bought the Sony instead. I am glad I did. The Samsung was clearly defective as it would not remember my audio and video settings. The Samsung did have a slightly better audio processor but I couldn't hear the difference on my 5.1 home theater configuration. The Samsung couldn't read dual layer DVD's which the Sony can.
I think this Sony DVD player is great for those who have a home theater system with a big high definition TV. You will really appreciate the superb audio and video quality. It is fun watching your movies again with this player!
Product Description
The DMR-EZ27 offers high image quality in both recording and playback, easy operation, and improved networking capabilities. It comes equipped with the HDMI terminal, which allows easy, single-cable connection to compatible equipment. The DMR-EZ27 also offers Panasonic's proprietary VIERA Link functions for linked operation of other AV devices, and these functions are now even more convenient. It is now possible to control an optional DIGA recorder, when connected to a Panasonic VIERA TV, using VIERA's remote control unit. This provides convenient control over frequently used functions by using only VIERA's remote. By pressing the VIERA Link button on the remote, a DIGA menu screen can be accessed directly from the VIERA Link menu screen, to make recording settings or play a DVD. By combining intelligent i/p Conversion and 1080p Up-Conversion technologies, DIGA's 1080p technology renders high-resolution 1080p images from DVD movies and TV broadcasts to compatible TVs. The Accutune high-precision analog/digital tuner achieves stable signal reception even under poor signal conditions, such as when signals are reflected by surrounding buildings. The Accutune Digital Tuner is a high-performance hybrid tuner capable of receiving both digital and analog broadcasts. It uses a signal processor to effectively control noise and distortion, and its proprietary matching circuits allow it to transform and separate digital broadcasts into the appropriate digital or analog signals. With the built-in Digital Tuner, this will also allow you to record one digital broadcast program while watching a second program. Super Multi-Format Recording & Playback Digital Broadcast Capable - Built-in ATSC Tuner Automatic Program Information Acquisition Long Time Recording with High Picture Quality Real-Time Variable Bit Rate Control DivX Playback JPEG View with SD Slot DV Auto Recording Auto DVD Disc Finalizing Direct Navigat
Customer Reviews:
Not Too Bad For What I Need.......2007-12-21
This DVD Recorder could get a little complicated if you start getting into the extra features. But for what I bought it for it works great. The only complaint that I have is that it takes forever to turn on. I guess that's what the quick start is for. I havent really had a chance to go through all of the features. The manual is pretty big, meaning there are lots of instructions for all of those features (I'll give Panasonic props for that). I was expecting the manual to be divided up into different languages but it's not. It's all in English. So, I guess whenever I have extra time after the holidays to read up on all the extra stuff I will come back to update my review. But for now if all you want to do is record programs onto DVD's to clear space on your Tivo, this is the product to go with. I have found that Panasonic usually puts out excellent products.
Not all its cracked up to be........2007-12-15
When I called panasonic to find out the unit's capabilities, a Panasonic sales rep said that still pictures could be recorded and played on CD's, DVD's, and DVD RAM's. This unit cannot play DVD's of still pictures. With CD's the unit will not play back recorded still pictures in the order recorded.
Very Disappointing..........2007-12-11
My old DMR-ES10 broke so I decided to buy an EZ27K. I do not need to rehash many of the complaints previously listed. The review by Calvin mirrors many of my experiences with this unit. I want to add that Panasonic has inexplicably removed some conveniences that users of previous models will miss.
Top of the list is the removal of the text preview window in the title naming area. You no longer have a window that shows what the title of your chapters look like on a finalized disc. If you have a title that is longer than one line you will not be able to see where your word splits and runs into the second or third line. This may seem small until you see the jumbled mess that your finalized disc titles look like. Additionally, they removed the convenient feature of memorizing titles to recall for future use. I had a list of frequently used words in my old recorder and now I have to type them every time. Not such a big thing but it is frustrating to lose a convenient feature like that unnecessarily. My third convenience complaint is the front display. The front display is very poor compared to previous models. At a minimum the display should, at all times, show the type of dvd in the unit, the record mode selected, the dvd time counter, and the state of the dvd (play, rec, stop, etc.). The display on the EZ27 only shows one of these things at a time with no feature for toggling through the others. If you want the information not shown on the front display, you have to press the "status" button on the remote and view it on your TV. Panasonic went from having one of the most informative front displays to the worst I have ever used. I looked at the manuals for all of their current models because I would have exchanged my EZ27 for one of the others if it had these features, but all of the current Panasonic models are this way.
I thought I could put up with some of the quirks that other reviewers have listed, but the things I just listed were the final straw for me. I don't have an HDMI TV so an older model works well for me. I returned my EZ27 to the store and bought a brand new DMR-ES15 on eBay for $70.
Glitchy Performance.......2007-11-30
I'm still a little nervous about this purchase. I have 'scheduled' about 6 programs to record. Only 3 of the 6 have actually recorded the program. I watched it closely the last time it failed. The set blinks as if it is starting to record, but the timer never starts ticking off the time, like it does when it records successfully. Hmmmm ... anyone's guess as to whether it will record that future program. When it does record, the picture is very good. I have a 1080 37" LCD television, and I had previously read that the upconversion is over-rated. I disagree. I have watched the same DVD on this new Panasonic with a HDMI connection, and it is a noticeable improvement over the same picture from my old Sony DVD player with the standard connection (no upconversion). However, if I had to do it over, I would probably wait for better technology. Or look into recording those occasional HD programs on the computer.
Great Recorder.......2007-11-16
My experience so far with this dvd recorder has been great. The interface is extremely easy to use and setup recordings. This is my 3rd unit of the later generation Panasonic recorders and all 3 have been great. The first one I got a couple of years ago was not good even after doing firmware updates. Even took it in for warranty repair where they replaced the drive but didn't solve the problems. But again, the last 3, even one that has the vcr combo have all been great and I would highly recommend these units now.
Average customer rating:
- DVR/VHS combo saves old tapes in newer format
- Totally frustrating
- Great machine!
- Clunky user interface, DVD drive failed after 4 months and 12 discs
- NEVER WILL I PURCHASE ANOTHER PANASONIC PLAYER!
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Panasonic DMR-ES45VS DVD Recorder / VCR Combo with HDMI, SD Card, and DV Input
Manufacturer: Panasonic
ProductGroup: CE
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Product Features:
- Combo DVD recorder/VHS player recorder with HDMI up-converting output; measures 16.9 x 3.3 x 13.9 inches (WxHxD)
- Easy one-touch dubbing of DVD to VCR and VCR to DVD (non-copy protected sources)
- Records onto DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, and DVD-RAM; plays back dual-layer DVD-R/+R and CD-R/RW
- Connections: composite (2 in, 1 out), S-Video (2 in, 1 out), component (1 out), HDMI (1 out), RF (1 in, 1 out), Firewire (1 in), SD card slot
- Optical digital audio out for Dolby Digital and DTS surround sound
ASIN: B000F4C1H6
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Product Description
The Panasonic DMR-ES45 gives you the ability to enjoy older and newer media formats without taking up precious space in your home entertainment setup. You've probably got plenty of great stuff on VHS tapes, from your favorite films to home recordings. Instead of taking up room with a VCR and a DVD player, you need a single unit that plays both. That's where the DMR-ES45 comes in. Taking what worked well in previous models and improving them, it also includes new features that make everyday DVD recording simpler than ever. The HDAVI-Control allows you to control multiple components without the mess of wires and remotes that you'd normally face. While enjoying your favorite VHS movies and recording to tape, you can also record & play back DVD-Audio & Video, CD audio, CD-DA and MP3/JPEG discs. You can even load up an SD card and preview your digital photos and video on a larger screen. The simple HDMI connection lets you manage your home theater connections without facing a jumble of wires. The DMR-ES15K offers you the easy operation and versatility you need to complete your home entertainment center. VCR Refresh Dubbing with advanced DNR DV Auto recording and playlist creation Transfers content from a DV camcorder or SD card in just one step Simultaneous playback and recording (for DVD) Chasing playback tool allows you to watch the start of a program while you're still recording it (for DVD) Uses single-layer DVD-R and DVD-RAM (recording up to 4.7 GB) Auto DVD-R Finalizing Records using MEPG-2 compression, for up to 8 hours of video on one disc VBR recording for optimized bitrate depending on type & length of recording Time base corrector for stable, natural images Front A/V input Built-in SD card slot HDMI Inputs - 2 S-Video, 2 Component, 2 SCART, 2 line in 1 line out, 1 Optical, 1 Component, 1 S-Video, 1 Composite Recording formats - DVD-RAM, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW Dolby
Amazon.com Product Description
The Panasonic DMR-ES45VS brings together a VCR and multi-format DVD recorder, enabling you to continue to enjoy your VHS video tape library as well as record TV programming and home videos directly to DVD disc. It includes easy-to-use front panel controls as well as an S-Video/composite AV input for connecting gaming consoles and video camcorders. This unit provides easy, one-touch copying of non-copy protected DVD disc material to VHS tape, and vice versa--great for archiving your old home videos. It also offers a FireWire port (also known as IEEE1394 or i.Link) for direct connection to a digital video camcorder, enabling you to download footage directly to disc. You can also view individual images and photo slideshows using the integrated Secure Digital (SD) memory card slot (compatible with JPEG and TIFF file formats).
This unit also includes an HDMI digital audio/video output, which can "up-convert" standard DVD movie discs to near HD resolution. Where standard DVD players (even progressive scan models) provide just 480 lines of resolution, the DMR-ES25S up-converts the picture up to 720p and 1080i high-def video formats--taking full advantage of your HD television's sparkling resolution. (Note that your TV must have an HDMI connection; HDMI cable not included.)
Choose from a full spectrum of recordable DVD media--write-once DVD+R and DVD-R discs or rewritable DVD-RW/+RW and DVD-RAM discs. (For temporary storage, such as your favorite weekly shows, DVD-RAM discs are a great choice as they can be rewritten more times than DVD-RW/+RW discs.) In addition to standard DVD movie and CD audio discs and its compatible recordable formats, the DMR-ES25S can play back CD-R/RW, dual layer DVD-R/+R, and VCD disc formats as well as JPEG, and MP3 digital formats.
Panasonic's Time Slip function consists of two features designed to give you added flexibility and control when making DVD recordings: Chasing Playback and Simultaneous Record & Play. With Chasing Playback, you don't have to wait for an entire program to be recorded before watching it from beginning to end. This feature allows you to watch a program that's currently being recorded from any point that's already been recorded--while continuing to record the live program in progress. Simultaneous Record & Play allows you to record a program onto a disc while simultaneously watching any other program that's previously been recorded on the same disc.
You can set your recorder to one of five different recording speeds, each varying in recording quality and length. EP mode yields the most recording time, LP & SP modes provide less recording time with higher quality recording, and XP mode gives you the highest quality recording. There's also the FR (Flexible Recording) mode that lets you record with the best picture quality possible for the recording time and remaining space on the disc.
The Direct Navigator feature makes it easy to find a previously recorded program on a disc. A list of recording dates, times, channels and (user-entered) titles are shown on screen. With the Playlist Playback function, you can perform simple non-linear video editing using, such as rearranging the order of scenes, skipping over unwanted scenes, or copying selections
Jump directly to any spot on a disc and begin playback or recording right away with the Rapid Random Access function when using DVD-RAM discs. Even if there is no sequential area of empty space available, this DVD recorder can record data on available space throughout the rest of the disc. You will also avoid searching for a blank spot to start recording, or accidentally recording over desired material.
Enjoy a great picture on you flat screen LCD or plasma HDTV using the component video output, and immersive surround sound via the optical digital audio output for Dolby Digital and DTS home theater effects. The full lineup of video and audio connections includes:
- RF input: 1
- RF output: 1 (for VCR)
- Composite video/audio input: 2 (1 front)
- Composite video/audio output: 1
- S-Video input: 2 (1 front)
- S-Video output: 1
- Component video output: 1
- HDMI audio/video output: 1
- Digital audio output: 1 optical
Tech Talk
HDMI is a lossless, uncompressed, all-digital audio/video interface to link any audio/video source (such as a set-top box, DVD player, or AV receiver) with your TV--all over a single cable. It provides up to a 5 GB per second bandwidth for transmitting pure digital video and audio signals with no degradation in the transfer. It can carry up to eight discrete audio channels, making it compatible with 7.1-channel surround sound systems. Signals are encrypted with HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) to prevent recording. HDMI is fully backward-compatible with most DVI connections .
Component video (also called Y/Pb/Pr) features a three-jack video input, which provides separate connections for luminance (Y), blue color difference (PB) and red color difference (PR). This results in increased bandwidth for color information, resulting in a more accurate picture with clearer color reproduction and less bleeding than you would get with S-Video or composite (RCA yellow video plug) connections. You will need a separate RCA left/right audio cable for sound.
High Definition Formats: The most common high-def (HD) video format is 720p, which displays video at 720 vertical by 1280 horizontal pixels. The "p" denotes that it is progressive scan, meaning that all video lines are filled at the same time. The 1080i format displays video at 1080 vertical by 1920 horizontal pixels, and the "i" means that it is interlaced (the old-school way of presenting video where the screen scans the odd-numbered video lines first, then the even-numbered lines). The 1080p format has the same pixel resolution as 1080i, but it is a progressive scan format and thus has a constant vertical resolution of 1080 lines.
What's in the Box
DVD recorder/VCR, remote control (with batteries), AV cable, RF cable, power cord, one DVD-RAM disc, printed operating instructions
Customer Reviews:
DVR/VHS combo saves old tapes in newer format.......2007-12-21
This combo works pretty much as advertised to copy VHS tapes onto DVD's of various formats. It isn't completely intuitive to operate, so, horror of horrors, you actually need to read the directions to operate it. The directions assume a level of competence I don't possess, so I'm still trying to figure out how to split titles and edit, but that will come with some experiementing.
Totally frustrating.......2007-12-19
If you want to use this to record or play VHS tapes, DON'T!! Read all the other reviews about the problems people have when tapes get jammed. Panasonic should be ashamed.
Great machine!.......2007-11-25
I purchased this item a year ago and have been very pleased with its preformance. I have not had a bit of trouble with the machine for over a year now and I use it to record every day. I generally record on DVDs but occasionally use the VHS, especiallly when I am away from home. It gives me 12 hours of recording time when I am away using both. I record weekly programs on DVD-RAM for viewing within the week, then erase the title. This is an easy process, which I like. Setting up the recording schedule is fast. You also have the option of editing the schedule or putting a scheduled recording on standby, therefore not having to delete the scheduled program and start over. A really good feature for me.
I have been transfering all my VHS recorded movies, etc. to DVD-R discs and that too is an easy process. I like the option of 1 touch recording or setting up a recording for a specified period of time.
The only problem I have found is that when copying from VHS to DVD or vice versa, you cannot view the television separately, (at least I have not found it so but then, I haven't tried to break the connection while copying either - I will experiment soon). And the instruction book is a bit difficult to navigate, but once you figure it out, it becomes easier. The instructions are easy to understand and well diagramed.
Altho' I am not a "techie", I am able to read and operate the machine competently and am very happy with my purchase. Would recommend this product to both experienced and novice operators.
Clunky user interface, DVD drive failed after 4 months and 12 discs.......2007-11-23
It would be easy enough to forgive Panasonic for the poorly thought out and implemented user interface if the unit had continued functioning for years and years, like my other Panasonic devices. I have an 11 year old TV, a 7 year old DVD player and among my audio gear, a 20 year old CD player and a 25 year old boombox. Over the years I've had very good luck with my Panasonic and Technics electronics.
Until now. I had this unit 4 months. I used it to convert 3 short VHS tapes to DVD, and had just started recording the evening news to DVD-RAM.
I have young children and never can catch the news when it's on. And I do not yet have a TiVo. In total I had made 12 recordings when the DVD drive died. In the middle of recording it ejected the disc and indicated that it needed to reboot. I rebooted it, and then again and eventually unplugged it. After 24 hrs I powered it up again but it would no longer read any disc.
Luckily it was still under warranty and went back to Panasonic for repair.
I realize that most of the DVD drive assemblies made today are of poor quality but I had much high expectations for Panasonic. For half the price of this unit I could have purchased an El Cheapo unit and wouldn't have been surprised or disappointed if it would have failed in the first year.
I realize that Panasonic has a replacement for this unit which now has an ATSC tuner, which would be great to have. If I ever get this unit back from Panasonic I will probably sell it on Amazon Marketplace as a refurbished unit (because it will be) and get a newer OPPO with an ATSC tuner.
NEVER WILL I PURCHASE ANOTHER PANASONIC PLAYER!.......2007-08-07
Everything about this unit sounded wonderful, all the highlighted features, but it all faded away really quick as soon as I powered the unit on and tried to do something as simple as playing a VHS tape. It would not accept the VHS movies. You maybe thinking the VHS movies are too old and won't play. Unwrapped a brand new VHS tape put it in waited a couple of seconds spitted right back out. I tried the same tapes in my old stand alone VCR they all played fine. Menus are a little more complicated then most units. With this experience... I would probably never purchase another Panasonic player again, which is too bad because they use to make good electronic equipment!
Product Description
Samsung's DVD-R160 Recorder is the perfect way to join the digital revolution. The DVD +-R dual layer recording and front DV input features let you record TV shows and add home video to a DVD disc - and then rewrite over it, if desired. Favorite shows can be captured immediately with the ?1 sec.? Quick Recording feature. Playback is amazingly clear with true color reproduction, thanks to Samsung's EVQ (Enhanced Video Quality) and Progressive scan output features. And at just 1.9" in height, the DVD-R160 fits into any area with ease. Progressive scan DVD One Touch Recording EZ record function Auto chapter creator Auto fit recording DivX Front DV input for digital camcorder transfer Playable formats - DVD Video, DVD-R, DVD+R,DVD+RW, DVD-RW, DVD RAM, CD-R/RW,CD-DA, MP3, MPEG4,WMA, and JPEG 2 video inputs/1 video output 1 S-Video input/1 S-Video output 1 component output / 1 HDMI output /Analog audio input/output /1 audio optical / 1 audio coaxial Unit Dimensions (WxHxD) - 16.9 x 1.9 x 8.5 inches Weight - 5.1 lbs Samsung 1 year parts and 90 days labor warranty backed by Samsung toll-free support
Customer Reviews:
Poor Product - Very Bad Customer Service.......2007-12-21
Video and sound froze for approximately 4 seconds every 10 minutes when watching a movie in DTS audio mode. Same movie worked fine in 5.1 Dolby Digital. When the sound froze, a very loud noise would be emitted from the speakers. DTS movies have played perfectly on my system through Panasonic and Toshiba players.
The first customer service representative informed me that my Samsung DLP TV did not support DTS (DVD recorder connected to TV via HDMI); therefore, the player would not work in DTS mode. I informed him that the audio was connected to my DTS certified receiver via an optical cable and this should not be a factor. I called back the next day and the customer service representative passed me to a Level 2 technician. I was told by this technician that the DVD-R160 did not support DTS audio. I had to explain to him that DTS was written on the case, DTS was in the specs. and they are advertising the recorder to play DTS. After I educated their Level 2 technician I was told that I had to send the recorder into Samsung to get repaired. The return period was 30 days for the vendor and I called the vendor 31 days after purchase. I requested that a new unit be shipped to me from Samsung, but was informed by Samsung that I had to pay to ship the defective unit to their repair facility and I would have to wait approximately 2 weeks to receive the repaired unit. It has been over two weeks and I have just been informed (by checking their web site)that the recorder is in the mail.
In summary I purchased a new recorder that did not work, did not receive a new replacement recorder as a result of this defective unit, had to pay shipping to get it repaired and had to wait over two weeks to have a DVD recorder.
I will never purchase another Samsung product after the experience I had with their "customer service".
Stay away.......2007-12-08
Poor product from a poor company with the worst customer service I have encountered for anything I have ever purchased. I originally purchased the DVD-R135 which I returned after a couple months of use (would not record). They sent back the DVD-R after three months of waiting. This product stopped recording or reading disks after a couple times recording. We tried to contact customer service and was told that they would call us back during the week - of course nobody has called or emailed. We are trying to get the $64 labor fee waived, but can't get anyone to help. STAY AWAY!!!!
Great recordings, easy to use, finicky about media.......2007-12-01
I replaced a Liteon 5001 recorder with this Samsung R160. Despite a quirky and rather small, oddly-shaped remote (it has an "anykey" that brings up submenus. Yes, it actually says "anykey" on it!) it performs well. The upconverting HDMI 1080i/p output works fine and the upconverter shows almost no video artifacts with fast motion content. I'm using DVD +RW discs to record content from my satellite receiver and then transferring content I want to keep onto write-once discs. I've tested Verbatim and Ritek media and the Sammy prefers Ritek.
samsung dvd recorder.......2007-11-02
below average product from below average brand with below average customer service. finalizing discs are sometimes a problem, is very fussy to brand of disc, and found that a lot of discs made on this recorder are not playable on most other dvd players. also, flexible recording time can only be used with timer. not so with panasonic, which i am very happy with.
Good Product.......2007-10-27
Pleased with overall performance of DVD Player. Playback available in 1080P if desired or as low as 420P. Have not used the dvd writing function as of yet but am going to transfer old VHS to DVD very soon.
Remote is basic, however, unlike some other DVD Players out there, this model has all the browsing functions you need on the remote as well as on the face of the player.
HDMI out as well as any other connection you might need.
Once again, you cannot beat Amazon's prices. Smooth transaction!
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Monster HTS 950 8 Outlet PowerCenter with Clean Power Stage 1
Monster Cable ILS100-2M Interlink LightSpeed 100 High-Performance Digital Fiber-Optic Cable, Toslink-to-Toslink (2 Meters)
Monster Cable MP AV600 Power Protector
Monster Cable MV2CV-2M Monster Video 2 2-Meter Component Video Cable
