Panasonic DMR-ES30VS DVD Recorder/VCR Combo
So impressed, I bought 2.
I had to return this machine after a week because it had a little bug in scheduled recording.  It recorded the wrong channel (and no, it wasn't \\"pilot error\\".  The thumbnail in the title menu says one channel, but the program recorded is something else.  Very strange).  I guess even Panasonic isn't perfect. <br /> <br />However, to tell you how impressed I am with this machine, I exchanged it for the exact same model. And bought another one for my office. <br /> <br />Some highlights: <br />This new model will record on +R disks.  <br />It has a very solid feel.  <br /> <br />Recording in LP mode is a little blocky. EP mode is TERRIBLE. but in SP, the picture looks great.  <br /> <br /> <br />I also own a Toshiba DR2. I was in for a big surprise when I called up the disk menu on this new Panasonic. The thumbnails are animated and have sound (silent stills on the Toshiba). Pretty cool.  <br /> <br />The Panny also seems to load faster than the Toshiba.  <br /> <br />The machine lacks firewire. The Panny's CM Skip only skips forward (the DR2 also skips backward 10 seconds in case you over-skip). The Panny's skip seems to only work on disks recorded on it (it will play but won't skip on finalized DVD-RW disks).  <br /> <br />On the VCR side, the rewind is blazing fast. There is a setting mentioned in the manual that allows you to run the vcr through the component connection. I've never seen a vhs picture this clear.  <br /> <br />Be sure to read the manual and learn how to deactivate the rf connection so you don't have to push the vcr/tv button every time you turn on the machine.  <br /> <br />All in all, a well made, well designed machine with options to record/play just about every format except DVD+RW.  <br />