Philips DVDR985 Progressive-Scan DVD Recorder and Player
Not dependable at all !!!!!!
I purchased the unit May 3, 2003.  Had to take it in for repairs August 9, 2003.  Problems that kept occurring were problems during recording and/or erasing DVD's, error messages and lost the ability to finalize the recorded DVD's.  When the unit was returned I was told that there was a defective electrical part, PC board was replaced and the firmware was corrupt which had to be installed and upgraded.  I was also told that I should not use ANY Memorex and/or generic DVD's for recording (supposedly there are compatibility issues with Memorex media).  So I have switched and began using TDK and FUJI blank DVD+R's and DVD+RW's.  Second service attempt is October 11, 2003.  Problems at this time is; feezeing when erasing, freezes when finalizing, does not recognize discs.  Images become distorted and there is a loud vibration when using FFW and Rewind.  Timer recording does not always function properly and pissed me off when it did not record the season finale of Paradise Hotel and the season premier of Mutant X.  Waiting to see what happens this time.  Thankfully I purchased my unit at Circuit City and added the City Advantage extended warranty which saves me unnecessary charges during repair also, I was told that if it needs to be repaired a third time, that it will be replaced with a new unit or one with similar features and functionality.  Hopefully if anyone buys this or any other unit they will purchase from a place that will save them any headaches and protect their product investment!