any way to compensate for Black Level on Panny recorder?

[spiritgumm]

I like the Panny ES15 because it has FR, can handle most format dvds, and has an improved TBA. I'm only using it to transfer VHS, and using -/+RWs, and reauthoring in pc.
But like previous models, it only has Lighter/Darker settings for Input and Playback - no "normal" setting. The result it always Lighter or Darker than the original. During playback in the Panny, you can "compensate" by setting the Light/Dark Output to the opposite of what you recorded in, but the damage is done, and the disc will be either Lighter or Darker when you play it on another brand player. Needing to adjust the TV brightness is unacceptable.
I got an Archer processor box to adjust the brightness going from VCR to recorder, but I can't easily tell if it's adjusted correctly (because the Panny doesn't output "normal"). Any suggestions on how to work around this (short of a different recorder)?

[FulciLives]

My understanding is that one of the settings is for a 0.0 IRE BLACK source while the other setting is for a 7.5 IRE BLACK source. What I don't know is which is which (i.e., BRIGHTER/DARKER input settings).

I have heard some people say though that even when it is set up properly the Panasonics still have an IRE "issue". At least I know LordSmurf says that still to this day.

You should have bought a Pioneer DVR-640H-S which is probably as perfect a DVD recorder as there is ... athough I have heard some good things about the last couple of Toshiba models (the models with a built-in HDD).

- John "FulciLives" Coleman

[spiritgumm]

I'd rather stick to the subject, but if I were looking for recorder recommendations, I'd mention I don't need an expensive HD unit for my purposes - I'm not tivoing off TV. The only reason I'd consider a HD would be if the good recorders don't have Flex recording. I'd record to the HD in XP mode and burn to RW. This is my last resort.
Non-HD Toshiba's don't have flex mode - last year's basic version that had it (but only in Timer mode) was discontinued. Why don't I buy that one, or JVC M100, or Pioneer 220+? They all failed to copy some old vhs tapes I had. However, this years Panny and Toshiba must have improved their TBC's, because they copy them perfectly (except Panny is too dark or light, and Toshy doesn't have Flex recording). It sucks to record a 75 minute movie in SP mode.