GoVideo VR4940 Progressive-Scan DVD Player/Recorder with VCR
Good Device, But Not Without  Problems
I bought this device because it was (at the time) a reasonably priced way to get a DVD Player/Recorder with a VCR.  I've owned GoVideo DVD/VCR combo players (not recorders) in the past, and I've been pleased with them.  I wanted a device that would actually record from the TV to DVD, however, so that I could watch programs later with greater clarity than those recorded on a videotape.<br /><br />The good news is that it does just that, and the pictures it records are sharp. It also functions as a good DVD/VCR player.<br /><br />Here are the problems:<br /><br />1.  When attempting to record timed TV programs, you must make sure that the DVD starts with its power OFF (it will turn itself on with the timer.)  Otherwise, the DVD will freeze after awhile.<br /><br />2.  In general, you need to keep the device powered off when not in use.  If you keep it on, it will \\"freeze\\" the TV picture (but not the audio.)  As a result, when you are watching TV, you will see a freeze frame, but hear the ongoing audio.<br /><br />3.  I have had a problem transferring my own personal camcorder (three-hour) tapes from the TV to the DVD.  The DVD recorder simply cannot absorb a long recording session -- it is unable to record to file afterwards.  I address this problem by stopping the DVD after an hour and a half and letting it \\"record to file\\" before continuing.<br /><br />On balance, I am happy that I own a DVD recorder.  If I had to do it over again, however, I'd wait for the next generation, so that they can get the kinks out.