Lite-On AllWrite LVW-5005 DVD/CD Recorder
I'm very happy with it!
The lite-on lvw 5005 dvd recorder is a very nice device. I'm very happy with it! <br /> <br />I was able to play DVDs without any problem. The only comment is that in order to see the subtitles you have to press the \\"Navi\\" key on the remote control; then you get a menu from which you can change the language and enable subtitles among other options. I also played VCDs, Music CDs, MP3, and JPEG. For the last two, you can press the \\"Navi\\" key to see more information about the files that are being played (like title, total time, time counter, etc). <br /> <br />In addition, I was able to record programs from the TV on the DVD-RW that comes with the DVD recorder without any problem. It creates nice chapters for every recording, and you can change the titles if you want to. It's very easy to record. The graphic user interface of the recorder is excellent. I also recorded on a Memorex CD-RW and was able to create VCD and SVCD. After finalizing both the DVD-RW and the CD-RW, I was able to play them on my laptop. I also deleted the content and recorded over again without any problem. Please note that I didn't test it recording DVD-/+R. I'm not sure if I want to use them any ways. I prefer to be able to rewrite on them. <br /> <br />Some final comments: I noticed that the recorder takes about 1 or 2 seconds to respond to the remote control commands (not a problem for me). Before buying it, I called 1-888-4-LITEON to see how the technical support was like. They were very nice and told me that after the guaranty from the retailer expire and within 1 year I can ship a defective DVD recorder to them (paying the one-way shipping myself) and then they will send me a new one back. They also have a website from where you can get new versions of the firmware ([...] Be aware that you may have a version of the firmware newer than the one online. I believe that is my case. I got the DVD recorder form [...] for $249. I received in 2 days! The nice thing about this site is that, within 30days, if your DVD is defective they will replace it (you don't have to pay shipping). Also, if you want your money back you only have to pay the shipping (no restocking fee). They also have a nice customer service line (I always call to double check everything before I buy something expensive :-). Finally, The TV that I used to do the testing only had RF input, so I had to buy a RF modulator. I got a RCA at Walmart for about $18. Everything worked very well.