My VCR has finally died so I think its time to make the switch to a DVD rec machine.

I'm thinking I should get one with a hard disk that does not have to be huge (80GB is fine). My reason for wanting the HDD is I want the time slip feature.

My real query is:

I will buy a plasma/LCD next year so should I get a dvd recorder that can upscale to 720p etc with an HDMI output? Are these upscalers any good?

Should I wait for HD DVD recorders? But could be a while before they are affordable?

To give you an idea of budget I was considering the Pioneer 433H. It has good reviews but does not have the HDMI output.

Thanks in advance,
Bruce

A dvd recorder with a high quality scaler is kind of an oxymoron.... especially when there's a HDD in the same box...
However:

If you buy a Plasma/LCD that is so poor in terms of its' ability to scale an RGB Scart or component progressive scan picture that you need an upscaling recorder... WHAT will you do about your dreadful TV picture on SD broadcasts???
There'll be nothing to scale those other than the aforementioned dreadful scaler in a cheap TV.

Get a DVD recorder with a decent picture and progressives scan outputs (Component or HDMI, it matters not a jot).

Make sure any tv you buy has a decent internal scaler, and then your problem is solved!
Hey presto!!!

Mike1380,

Yes I appreciate your point about the scaler in the TV itself.

Will look out for prog scan outputs.

ta
b

I have a panasonic dmr-e55 it has time slip but no hd .it is a very good bit of kit. had it over two years picture as good as my n/vi. qed flat blue scart into my plasma made a big difference.regards munch

Bruce

I bought an NEC NDH81 DVD/HDD recorder (rebadged LG RH7521W) for my listening room a couple of months ago to replace a clapped out VHS machine. I use it with a 48cm 16:9 LCD tv.

I rarely play or record DVDs, but the timeslip function and high quality recording of analogue (internal tuner) or digital (Topfield box) broadcasts is very useful.

The machine is relatively cheap, has 80gb hdd, component, s-video, composite & optical outputs. Operation & menus are logical and easy to use. Only has RF and composite inputs, but that's not a concern for me.

Could be just the ticket if you don't want to spend too much.