DVR-220 REC Modes

[iluvJLO]

What if the program I want to record is between 1 and 2 hours. This would mean I'd have to use either SP or the customizable MN mode. I'm curious as to if the MN mode maximizes the quality for the amount it records? Say the program is 1hr 32mins. Would I be better off setting it to MN 1hr xx mins, or the 2hr SP mode?

By the way, I was reading the manual, and it states that all REC modes use Dolby Digital 2ch, while the MN mode uses some high quality pcm or whatever audio. What is the difference between the two??

[Epicurus8a]

Your "best" quality/compatibilty settings will be MN19 - MN23 (debateable of course). MN 1 - MN18 utilize lower resolution(s). MN24 - MN32 may present compatibility problems with other machines (due to the higher bit rates). Many local broadcasters don't exceed 8Mbps, so it's unlikely you'd see any improvments using MN26 -MN 32.

MN32 (FINE) is the only setting that uses PCM audio. It's uncompressed audio (like on a CD). All of the other settings use compressed 2 channel Dolby Digital audio. Compressed audio takes up less disc space, but some audio purists say it doesn't sound as good as uncompressed audio. Unless you are mastering a program for network broadcast, it's unlikely you'll ever use MN32.

Good Luck!