Need to replace DVD recorder

[Richkut]

While I have extoled the virtues of my standalone Philips 985 DVD recorder, it unfortunately now must be replaced (recordings are unreliable--the last two did not even work!!). I am looking for the best bang for the buck (of course) in replacing it. Not ready for HD just yet, the replacement nevertheless must have the standard Composite, S-VHS and RCA audio I/Os; Firewire (IN); and preferably Componenet I/O (although this latter is NOT a necessity). IT MUST, however, record/playback DVD+RW and DVD+R. Any suggestions on something along this line that is reliable yet cost effective, and also where to buy it? Thanks in advance!

Rich

[lordsmurf]

Why must it record DVD+R/DVD+RW? I find those machines often leave much to be desired. You eliminate a lot of good equipment (JVC, Toshiba) with what I consider a ridiculous requirement. You can buy new DVD-RW and DVD-R much easier than you can find a good DVD+R/DVD+RW machine.

It has nothing to do with the discs, mind you. It just happens that the lesser machines tend to use those discs. Don't ask me why, it just is that way.

[hech54]

Your 985 finally died?
Mine is still going but when it does die I'll most likely be going Pioneer or JVC. I'm not concerned about the +R/-R aspects anymore. I still buy -R blanks 95% of the time even though I own a +R recorder. I use +RW's in the recorder(or cheap +R) then stick them in the computer to edit and add menus....then burn to Taiyo Yuden -R media.

[Richkut]

I use DVD+RWs in my workflow. I record my edited project onto a standalone DVD+RW (e.g., in real time), put the +RW into my PC DVD burner and rip the VOBs to my hard drive. I then open an authoring program to complete my project for burning to a +R. I never have had a +R returned from a client as unplayable. If I otherwise desire just to remove the standalone recorder's menu and have the DVD auto start, I can use my authoring program to do this and write it to the +RW in a matter of seconds, create an image and burn to +Rs! All of this saves time and I end up with great looking DVDs for distribution. This is why I use the plus mode. It has proven itself time and again, is an efficient method of operation and I have it down to a science. So, now that you know the reason, are you willing to steer me to the best current plus standalone recorders please?

[lordsmurf]

It's still a silly reason. You can just as easily transfer and edit from DVD-RW/DVD-R.

BTW, from your workflow description, I don't think you're making discs that fully comply to the DVD spec. Either that or you're not describing the workflow very well. Between that and DVD+R, it's amazing you've not run into problems ... yet.

What you're asking for doesn't exist.

I have an RCA, but it has quirks, only good for certain uses. You can try another Philips, but they're honestly crap. LiteOn is good, but not the best, same for LG.

Good luck to you, but you're limiting yourself needlessly.

[handyguy]

Did you clean your laser lens? Dirt is the first thing that gets to dvd recorders.

[hech54]

So, now that you know the reason, are you willing to steer me to the best current plus standalone recorders please?

I would look into LG....I love my 985 but would not buy another Philips recorder.

But what Smurf says is true for the most part. The fact that you are finishing the project on the PC (as I do) takes the 985 out of the equasion as far as the reason for no client complaints.

The only reason I said Smurf was correct "for the most part" is that my Philips DVDR985 "alone"...spit out THE most compatible discs I have ever run into. I never had a friend, family member or complete stranger get back to me saying a disc from that machine would not play in their player....EVER.