dvd/vcr combo: pros & cons

[philbill]

Interested in buying a dvd/vcr combo unit. Any compromise in quality or options? Any advice appreciated. Thanx in advance.

[susie]

Do you know if the unit is macrovision free or not ? Or else you can't backup a DVD movie to a vhs tape.

[pdxsteve]

The main disadvantage is that the dvd/vcr combos tend to cost more than a good separate dvd player and vcr. If one part of the unit breaks, you are left without either while it's being repaired. I also worry about cooling issues. My dvd player and vcr both warm up pretty good while in use, and I hesitate to think of what would happen if they were one unit and in use at the same time.

[steven3367]

just bought the jvc hr-xv1ek video dvd combo and it plays everthing dvdrs mp3s svcds and vcds a top player just got to work out the macro

[nick1977]

Unless you need the space, get them separately to avoid all the problems associated with *anything* integrated or combined. e.g. stereo, washing machine/dryer. Always have separate if you have the room.

It always struck me as a completely stupid idea to have DVD/VCR combos, as they share virtually no common components. That said, I knew manufacturers would make them as some people think it's a perfect solution...I mean.....WHY? We never had an all-in-one vinyl and CD player unit did we? You bought them as separate parts and made a whole. Just makes no sense to me AT ALL.

Now DVD-R/-RW with Hard Drive - that's different!

Nick