Pioneer DVD recorders and CPRM copy protection

[Danaus2]

I have noticed on the Pioneer website that the specs for the 80GB, dual layer supported DVR 533H-S mention CPRM (also the 633H-S)

CPRM copy protection technology with scramble system allows recording of copy-once broadcast programs, but not copying of such recordings. CPRM recordings can only be made on DVD-RW discs..

but CPRM is not mentioned for the presumably older model DVR 520H-S that is 80 GB but no dual layer support. The older model specs also imply firewire for both input and output.

Does this mean that when HBO and other cable programs start putting in the "digital flag", the newer model DVR 533H-S will recognize it and not allow me to make a personal use copy on DVD-R. If so, then should I stick with the older DVR 520H-S or would the digital flag not allow me to make ANY copies with the DVR 520H-S.

Pioneer Website with DVD Recorders

http://www.pioneer-america.com/pna/product/album/compare/0,,2076_4139,00.html


Dan

[Frobozz]

CPRM is also present on the DVR-520H-S. I'm not aware of any Pioneer DVD recorder that does not have this. By the way, you can copy a copy-once program from the HDD to a VR-mode DVD-RW, but when you do it is automatically erased from the HDD.

[HRMaddie]

If it is erased from the HD, what is the point of purchasing a DVD recorder with a hard drive? Geez, can they just freaking leave it alone.

[FulciLives]

I'm not sure but if you used a TBC (Time Base Corrector) then I would think that would filter out the CPRM copy protection.

Of course the cheapest Full Frame TBC is the AVT-8710 for $190 USD.

- John "FulciLives" Coleman