DVD Recorder Buying Guide

DVD recorders are an ideal way to record television programmes and other types of video. Recently prices have been coming down, as more of us replace our old VHS recorders with DVD recorders. Here are some hints and tips about things to consider when choosing a DVD recorder.

Essential DVD Recorder Features

There is a wide range of DVD recorders available to buy from online retailers, but there are three minimum requirements to look for:

PAL analogue tuner: Like a video recorder, a DVD recorder should come with a tuner to enable you record from different television channels, whether they are on terrestrial (including digital freeview), cable or satellite television.
Electronic Programme Guide (EPG): This is a graphical menu that shows what's on the television, usually over the next 7 days. You simply find the programme you want, and press one button to set the DVD player to record it for you.
Playback: The DVD player must be able to play both shop-bought and recordable DVDs.

How to Choose a DVD Recorder: Recording Formats

Here are the key DVD recordable formats supported by most DVD recorders:

DVD-R: A DVD-R can be recorded on only once, and is the most common format.
DVD-R DL: This format is a dual layer DVD, meaning it can store twice as much video as a DVD-R, but can't be re-used.
DVD-RW: This DVD format can be recorded on again and again, and is a common format on most DVD recorders.
DVD+R: Similar to the DVD-R, the DVD+R can be recorded on only once.
DVD+R DL: A dual layer DVD, this format can store twice as much video as a DVD+R, but cannot be re-used.
DVD+RW: The DVD+RW is compatible with most DVD players, and can be recorded on again and again.
DVD-RAM: A rewritable format that's ideal for editing. If you are likely to want to use this format, make sure that you choose a DVD recorder that supports it.

Check Connectivity Before You Buy A DVD Recorder

Connection types can vary between different DVD recorder models, so it's important to know which ones you will need.

Digital audio outputs: A coaxial or optical digital audio output needs to be connected to your home cinema receiver for DVD-Audio playback in 5.1 surround sound.
Analogue audio outputs: These can be used without a receiver. You can connect directly to your television using these outputs.
DV input: This is essential if you want to transfer your videos onto DVD for safekeeping. Also known as the Firewire connection, it comes with a 4 or 6 pin jack, so your Firewire cable should have the right jacks at each end.
S-Video and composite video inputs and outputs: This connection is for transferring footage from an analogue video camcorder to DVD.

Additional Features To Look When You Compare Models

DVD recorders offer a variety of features, and your choice depends on what you would like to do with your DVD recorder. Here are some key features that are included on many models of DVD recorder.

Compression: Some DVD recorders can increase the amount of video on a DVD by compressing the data. It's worth noting that picture quality drops accordingly with compression. A similar method is MPEG-2 Recording, which involves a longer recording time but gives a slightly better picture.
Hard disc drive: A DVD recorder with a hard drive gives you the option of recording first onto the hard drive, then burning the video onto a DVD. This is useful for recording longer films or sporting events. Also you can just leave footage on the hard drive for viewing later, without having to buy extra DVDs.
HDMI: Newer models of DVD recorder can up-convert video for use with high definition televisions. An HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) output is needed for this. It up-converts the image to 1080i or 1080p, improving picture quality.
Simultaneous record and play: This is a great way to watch a programme that has already begun recording from the beginning, whilst still recording it.
Title function: Ideal for better presentation and ease of use, a title function allows you to add titles to home video footage.
Editing: A great feature offered on some DVD players is the ability to edit footage. Linear editing works by recording segments from the source - which could be videotape - then putting it onto DVD. Non-linear editing is easier, and uses a simple cut and paste method.

Do I Need to Buy an Extended DVD Recorder Warranty?

Before buying your DVD recorder, find out what type of warranty or guarantee is offered by the manufacturer or retailer. A warranty ensures that repair or replacement can be carried out under certain conditions.

Most DVD recorders come with a free or fixed price warranty. It's worth shopping around and comparing the conditions of different warranties for the DVD recorder you want.

It's also worth shopping around online for the type of DVD recorder you are interested in. It's a good idea to work out what connections and features you need from your DVD recorder, then set a limit on the amount of money that you are prepared to spend. By comparing prices between different online DVD recorder retailers and taking advantage of special offers, you may be able to get a better model of DVD recorder than your budget would normally allow.