Ok, looking into some equipment. A few questions for you pros out there....

Have had a few VCR's recommended to me for running into my capture card/standalone DVD recorders. Anyone have any opinions on the following set ups and what is better, worse etc....

Panasonic AG-DS555, used but still expensive. A friend has one and the difference is noticeable but is it worth it? Would the....

JVC 9911 do the same? How much better is the TBC set up in the Panny to the JVC?

Or. pick up a Datavideo or ATV8710 to run from my current SVHS deck to my DVD equipment?

Lastly, a Canopus ADVC-300, can it be used as a standalone unit, independant of the PC?

Any help would be appreciated!!!!