Stand alone Recorders v/s Combination units

[gumby]

Can anyone who has tried both arrangements, give me some pros and cons or benefits either way when using a combination VCR/DVD Recorder versus a stand alone VCR connected to a stand alone DVD Recorder?
My objective, is to get my home video VHS tapes onto modern media. I am debating between picking up a combo or a separate DVD Recorder to hook up to my Toshiba VCR.
I am curious as to any editing features one may have over the other. My plan is to straight copy the tapes to DVD, Capture that to the PC for further refining.
Thanks for your reflections.

Gumby

[trhouse]

I have three versions. Standalone VCR to dvd recorder, a borrowed VCR/dvd combo recorder, and a hard drive dvd recorder.

The VCR to hard drive dvd recorder is the most flexible if you are trying to avoid working on the computer. The hdd recorder allows quite a bit of editing without a computer. One complaint is the limited styles of menus available.

The next most flexible is the VCR to dvd recorder. Each of the methods above allow easy interface to TBC's, color correctors, noise filters, and any other hardware device that might be used to improve the transfer from VCR to dvd. I do not believe that there are any editing differences between a non-hdd recorder used with a VCR and a combo.

The above devices can be used at least with some combos like the Panasonic DMR-ES35V but it is more cumbersome.

With all that said, I use the combo more than any of the others. The reason is that all the hardware devices mentioned above are needed if you have problem tapes. If the tapes are in good shape, a combo is very pleasant to use and will make quick work of it. Most combos will work with an external VCR is you do have problem tapes.

The biggest complaint about combos is what do you do if the VCR or dvd side stops working? It may be just the luck of the draw but I have never had a dvd recorder, combo or otherwise ever fail but two dvd players have.

[gumby]

trhouse,
Thank you very much. This is most helpful for me. I have noticed your posts in other threads I perused seeking information along these lines.
I was on the verge of buying the DMR ES35V when I discovered all the local shops were out of stock. Apparently waiting for the new models to arrive.
It was at this point I began to wonder about just going the DVD Recorder route, using my existing VCR.
There is so much valuable information and opinions to be deciphered it gets a bit perplexing for a novice to make the correct decision. I feel most of the threads I looked at were posted with the writers having the best interests of people like me in mind, in spite of their differing opinions.
I now have the option of waiting a while for a replacement for the ES35V or picking up a recorder only. The real estate covered by all these machines makes the combination unit very attractive.
Perhaps you could tell me if my idea about taking the recorded disk to the PC for further editing is the best scenario or can the recorder transfer it right to the PC. (I recently replaced my AIW Video card, that had capturing features, with an EVGA card, so at this point I lack a capture card.) I can use my Sony camera to pass the video through but I thought the DVD would save the wear and tear on the camera.
I should mention some of my tapes must be getting close to 30 years old. It's high time to get on with it.

Sorry about being long winded here, and many thanks again.

gumby

[trhouse]

If the number of tapes is not too great, the camcorder should do a good job. I have a lot of tapes to do, so if it were not for a relative loaning me this combo, I probably would have bought one for this job and if I had no further use for it afterward, sell it on eBay. I would lose a few dollars but for the convenience and time savings, it would have been worth it. I set the tape to the location where it should start recording, set the recorder side for the length of the tape, hit record and both the tape and recorder start at the same time. It can finalize automatically or manually at the end.

I was in a local Best Buy tonight. ES35V's were down to $219. Not sure what their price is online. The new models are going to be more since they have digital tuners.

[gumby]

trhouse;
I don't have hundreds of tapes but I do have plenty after 30 years. They were recorded with a Hitachi 2 unit recorder and various cameras. That amazing old recorder still worked the last time I tried it.

I believe you have given me the answer I need in your last post. EASY is what I need. If not absolutely needed I am not likely to be setting many filter options, or choosing which Manufacturer has the best black for instance.
For someone my age with my abilities, just getting rid of shots of the side walk and the sound of passing cars is a major feat. (chuckle here, most have done that). To easily get that onto a DVD is my wish.

My latest Sony camcorder easily transfers to the PC. It is all those old tapes I am concerned about.

Thank you for your comments, most useful for me.

gumby

[handyguy]

I have a combo recorder. You just push one button & it does the rest. However, some recorders make better copies than others.