Pioneer DVR-640H-S DVD Recorder with 160GB DVR
Missing 2  things from being perfect
I dont think the previous rating can be taken seriously, because shipping problems should not affect the product rating. <br />Having owned 3 previous DVD recorders (Philips, Panasonic 100 and Pioneer 320),  i was anxious to check out this product. To make a long story pretty short.  This recorder is just about perfect, but missing 2 things.... if you need them. <br />1)  believe it or not.... this recorder does NOT have a DV in. Every cheap 90 dollar DVD recorder has it now, for some strange reason, Pioneer does not include it in this year's model. <br />2)  An HDMI out, if you need it.  For a 400 Dollar model, you would assume, this is included for the 2006 model year. <br />Now the good thing. This year, for the first time. Pioneer recorders finally do record on ANY  media, even DVD+RW and DVD-RAM and  Dual-Layers. <br />Whats very unique on this recorder and not available anywhere else is the jukebox function, which lets you store several CD's on the harddrive, an alternative to an IPOD. <br />The Pioneer quality is the best next to Panasonic.  So if you miss the DV and the HDMI, i suggest you purchase the Panasonic 55 model (just coming out now in july 2006).  The Panasonic runs about 100 bucks more, but would miss the jukebox. <br />Those two models are clearly the best for the calendar year 2006.