Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

General discussion

Anybody own a DVD/VCR recorder combo??

Aug 9, 2005 11:08AM PDT

I have a lot of VHS tapes that I want to convert to DVD. The easy way seemed to be an all-in-one DVD recorder/VCR unit. After a bit of research and looking, I found a Pioneer DVR-RT500 DVD/VCR Player Recorder at Sams Club for $219. Could not pass up the price ($499 list on Pioneer website) so I bought it. Before I am past the return period, I want to know if anyone has had any experience with this unit or the RT300 which appears to be the same machine with a different face. Except for a terrible manual, so far it seems to work just great.

Any opinions on any of the other brands are also welcome. Thanks for the help.

Discussion is locked

- Collapse -
What some can't do...
Aug 9, 2005 11:11AM PDT

Is transfer 'copy-protected' or macrovision VHS tapes to DVD. There is no need to complain about it. It's by design.

Your homemade tapes will transfer just fine.

Bob

- Collapse -
Right
Aug 9, 2005 11:35AM PDT

Right, It tells you up-front that you can not copy some media. I did not want it to pirate VHS to DVD. if I really want a movie, I buy it. I just have to have that box. My main concerns were reliability or quirks that drive people crazy when they use it. So far, I find a few tasks that seem overly complicated to do, but maybe that is true with all the DVD reorders.

- Collapse -
It just seems complicated.
Aug 9, 2005 11:47AM PDT

Compare it to the work you would do if you used a PC and you'll think it's easy.

As to piracy or such, if you own the tape, fair use is what I'd write, but I note the usual complaint.

Bob

- Collapse -
Easier than computer
Aug 9, 2005 12:23PM PDT

Oh yes, it is a lot easier than the computer. Pretty much get it started and come back in a couple hours to finalize it. Might not have as much editing capabilities especially using DVD-R, but also not the intended use. Recording a TV show to DVD is as easy as using a VCR. Once I get familiar with the menus, I am sure it will be a joy to use.