Panasonic DMR-ES10K DVD Recorder , Black
You'll never record on videotape again!
The unit lacks a lot of conveniences, a hard drive,  and editing features - but the recording quality is GREAT and the price is right. In XP (1 hr.) or SP (2 hr) recording mode, the recorded DVD will either be identical to, or better than the original MPEG-1 digital satellite cable that I'm usually recording from; LP (4 hr.) is also very good, and EP (6 hr.) is good - but still better than VHS. Flexible recording (varying the bit rate) also works very well. <br />If you don't care about bells and whistles, and just want a good unit to record your favorite movies & shows, or transfer what you have on videotape to DVD - you won't go wrong with this unit.