Panasonic DMR-E55S Progressive Scan DVD Recorder / Player , Silver
Disappointed with performance and service
I brought the Panasonic DMR-E55S Progressive Scan DVD Recorder for Christmas of 2003.  For 31/2 months the recorder preformed as expected.  Some where around the middle of March 2004 the picture started to fade in and out.  I am referring to pre-recorded DVDs.  I was thinking that maybe the machine needed to be cleaned so I brought a cleaning DVD.  After cleaning the recorder did not resolve the problem I found the nearest authorized Panasonic service center.  The service center was located about 40 miles from home (no problem with the distance).  But the service center has had the recorder for 21/2 months with no time frame for completing the repair or replacement.  I feel it is bad customer service to take 31/2 months to repair a recorder they are still producing.  I own four Panasonic players that have not given me any trouble to this date.  Also I feel you should be able to buy something and get more than 31/2 months of service out of it.  This is a great recorder when it is working, picture is great, easy to operate and worth the money when it is working. Panasonic really need to get their act together when comes to this recorder.