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DVR buying guide

ť 1. Types of DVR
ť 2. Price parameter
ť 3. A/V recording modes

ť 4. DVD format compatibility
ť 5. Features explained
ť 6. Input/output connectivity

Features explained

Time Shift/Chase Play

Both of these functions allow users to manipulate video playback but under different contexts. The former buffers live TV programs onto the HDD, which in turns enables instant pause and replay. This gives the impression that you can control the telecast though the recorder is actually pulling out recorded footage for display.

Chase play allows simultaneously playback and recording of the same program. Simply put, you no longer need to wait for a program to end before you can view your recording. This, like the above, is enabled only on recorders with an inbuilt HDD.

Video editing

Not to be confused with a full-fledged video-editing suite, the "light" version embedded in DVRs is really meant for simple touch-up to produce a packaged DVD. Included are software tools to combine, divide, erase, and move footages organized in chunks of sections and chapters. You will also have the ability to create a DVD playlist or menu, set preview thumbnails and key in textual details on the title name and genre, among others.

As you can see, the above is more than adequate for an average user to compile a simple DVD for, say, a vacation or birthday bash. However, this is definitely not the right replacement for hobbyists and serious videographers. A computer-centric video-editing station based on a power processor and lots of memory is high recommended.

Multimedia playback

With the increased popularity of Web-friendly MP3, JPEG and DivX media, many DVRs are equipped with relevant multimedia support for these formats. Almost a standard feature nowadays, the files are primarily played back on CD and DVD recordables, though the latest entries have added flexibility to import these via USB storage and memory cards. New formats are also introduced over time with WMA, MPEG-2 and MPEG-4-AAC being the latest additions.

Furthermore, HDD-enabled recorders have the advantage of inbuilt music jukeboxes and digital photo albums. These double as a media server or repository and bridge the content to your home theater system. To capitalize on these features, some models have extended USB functionality for direct photo printing and a computer interface.

Electronic program guide

Commonly know as EPG, it is the electronic equivalent of a paper program listing together with companion synopsis. This free service is usually offered and maintained through digital broadcasters utilizing IPTV (Internet Protocol Television), cable and comparable technologies. Content provider aside, you will also need a specialized settop box or DVR with inbuilt digital tuner to retrieve the information.

Another advantage of such an electronic guide is the flexibility of integrating one-touch recording into the function. So instead of manually entering the details for a particular program, you will just need to scroll within the listing to select the desired one to record. This greatly reduces the amount of time and effort required to schedule one to multiple recordings.

Input and output connectivity »