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Review: I purchased this Pioneer DVR-3100 DVD recorder after trawling the net looking for the one that would be most suitable for me. I opted for the Pioneer for 2 reasons: 1) I wanted a recorder that used the -R/-RW format as opposed to the +R/+RW, and 2) I have a Pioneer re-writer in my computer and wanted compatability. I have to say that I do not regret my decision at all. This recorder has lived up to all expectations for me. The recordings from satellite are almost as good as the original broadcast. I say 'almost' because the Pioneer (like JVC, Toshiba and Sony) does not have an RGB input scart, the input is in composite (the poorest picture) or s-video (pretty good). Now I do not have an s-video out on my digibox so my picture is of the composite variety. To try and improve the picture quality I purchased good quality scart leads, and I have to say I can barely notice the difference between the two. So if you purchase this recorder, you really need good quality leads. The internal tuner, for the terrestrial channels, actually pulls in a better picture than my telly does so no complaints there at all. A very handy feature that can be used on -RW discs (these are discs that can be used again and again)is a function called Chase Play. This gives you the facility to begin watching a programme from the start, that is already recording. The recorder keeps on recording while you are watching. Very handy, have used this a few times. I must point out, however, that you have to use -RW discs that are 2x speed. 1x will not work with this function. Speaking of discs, I would recommend good quality brand names for -RW. I personally use TDK and Verbatim and have had no problems with these whatsoever. I did have some cheap -RW discs that I bought online but found these tended to return errors (like picture freezing and skipping)and sometimes didn't work at all. For -R discs (once only recordings), I use ones that I bought online and have had superb results every time. I have transferred some of my old vhs tapes to disc and have been very pleased with the results. Overall, I would say that this recorder is a superb purchase and I have no hesitation in giving it 5 stars |
DVD, TV & Video
