help: Panasonic EH75VSes versus Toshiba RD-XS35s (copy protection)

[Tony Tower]

Hello, all -

After 3 1/2 years of working my much-beloved Panasonic E80H like a dog, it's starting to give up the ghost. As I planned to replace it with the next generation Panasonic model, I was shocked to discover what I'm sure you've all known: Panasonic and most of the DVDR manufacturers are phasing out their recorders with Hard Drives!

So I search all over Manhattan, and all I've been able to find left in stores is a few Panasonic EH75VSes, as well as some Toshiba RD-XS35s. I bought an EH75VS - even though I had no interest in the VHS part - because I'd been so happy with my previous Panny. Mostly I like it, but the copy-protection on cable programs is news to me - never happened with the E80. So far I've had A&E reruns of SOPRANOS and the finale of BATTLESTAR GALACTICA get flagged.

I assume all current-generation Panasonics will react this way to copy-protecttion flags, but does anyone know if the Toshiba RD-XS35 has the same issue? The copy-protection is a real deal-breaker for me, so I might return the Panny for the Toshiba if that's the case.

Likewise, does anyone know if there is a list somewhere of which units react to the copy-protection flags and which don't? Or an idea of which shows are flagged? And does the cable box have anything to do with the flag coming through - if I change boxes, can I avoid the copy-protection?

I just want to archive my one DVDR copy of my shows - is that so wrong? ; )

Thanks for the guidance,

Tony

[Marvingj]

Just get a Video Stabilize it can get pass the copy 1,2,3 & macrovision.

[classfour]

If you're really serious, buy a Time Base Corrector - they're like expensive compared to video stabilizers!

Sima used to have some stabilizers that would work without turning the video green.

[Tony Tower]

Thanks for the feedback guys. I guess I'll stick with the EH75 and use my Simo GoDVD gadget to bust the copy protection. I've found that softens the image a bit, but I guess I can deal.

Now I just need to get it working with my cable - of course I have one of the Scientific Atlanta boxes that doesn't get along with the EH75. So I'll see if my cable company has other options for boxes, or wait for Panasonic to get the fix out.