Another DVD to DVD-R copying question (Zenith)

[vbspurs]

I recently bought the very handy and inexpensive Zenith DVD-R 413 ($200), which copies virtually everything. And yes, you guessed it, my question is about copying DVD films to my new DVD-R. But let me give you some background info:

I don't have a good computer, and I won't be using any computer DVD-rippers to make copies, so it's no use telling me about them -- I know.

What I do have is a HACKED Apex AD-600A which is REGION Free and MACROVISION off. Previously I was able to make excellent copies to my Panasonic VCR no problems, but I found out that I can't make copies of films to my new Zenith recorder.

In reading some posts in the forum, I realised that the Zenith comes or detects yet another copy protection medium called CGMS/A.

Since I have seen the prices of TBCs, and I won't be buying them any time soon, and I already mentioned my lack of computer upgrade, can any of you tell me what are my alternatives?

Any help is truly appreciated. Although I'm not a techie, I'm not a newbie either, if that's any help in assessing my needs.

P.S.: I am also looking for a way to make my DVD-R region free. I haven't found anything yet, even looking at the LG threads, since Zenith was bought out by them.

Cheers,
Victoria

[neftv]

Being new here myself I have read previous post on the topic and Full Frame TBC is the best way to go because those other devices will only degrade the video signal (which may become noticeably). I am looking at a TBC myself for under $300 very basic to do the job as I have old VHS tapes that need to be made stable and somewhat cleaned up the best it can.

[Synergy]

In reading some posts in the forum, I realised that the Zenith comes or detects yet another copy protection medium called CGMS/A.

P.S.: I am also looking for a way to make my DVD-R region free.

It's not just your Zenith, all standalone DVD recorders would not record the incoming signals when CGMS/A is detected. It's not difficult to get rid of, just like Macrovision, but it's gonna cost you.

The easiest way in your case is to get a video duplicator which specifically mentions that it can copy DVD to DVD, such as the following:

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=1074788270290&productCategoryId=cat08062&type=product

BTW, all DVD recorded from standalone recorders are region-free, no need to do anything extra to make them all-region or region-free.

[vbspurs]

First of all, thanks for the replies, guys.

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=1074788270290&productCategoryId=cat08062&type=product

I think this is the item I remembered in the checkout counter! I was about to buy the DVD-R, when my eye glanced on the rack next to it, and there was this item with a blurb on the jacket saying it copied DVD-2-DVDs. I made a mental note of the item, but since I didn't anticipate having any problems with the Apex, I didn't jot down the name. Thanks!

-- As for the TBC, sure, that's the best way to go, but I just can't afford 300 USD after this Christmas season...oh well --

BTW, all DVD recorded from standalone recorders are region-free, no need to do anything extra to make them all-region or region-free.

Oh yes, I realise that. But what I meant was, I'd like to PLAY Region 2 DVDs on my Zenith. For that I need a hack to make it Region-free, like my Apex.

Cheers,
Victoria[/quote]