Panasonic DMR-EX78 / 88

A reasonable DVD combo unit with a HDD instead of a VCR – Since I was used to VHS-DVD combos, I decided to try one with a hard drive instead of a VCR, and the DMR-EX78 seemed like the ideal choice. This model has a 250GB HDD, SD digital integrated tuner, DVD recorder, and standard TV/DVD remote (which is compatible with several models in the series, including VHS-DVD.) When I booted the unit up, I waited, as PLEASE WAIT flashed on the front display for a couple of minutes or more, then it came up to channel 7. Good picture. Setup after this was straightforward, and I was able to navigate the functions menu easily. I should point out that I did not buy this unit new; but as a clearance/ex-rental model from my local store at a bargain price. It also came with a limited warranty due to this. The condition was excellent. I was also able to find a copy of the operation manual online as well. HDMI compliant, S-video output and A/V inputs/output.

Recording is also easy; timer recording to the HDD made old fashioned videotapes redundant. I could record as many hours as I like of stuff, (either from the digital tuner or from an external device, for example a VCR or digital camera) in SP mode with virtually no quality loss, and the ease of dividing titles and partial delete/edit feature of titles made removing TV commercials from recorded programs a breeze. This function does not work with DVD recording but high speed copy from HDD to DVD means I could transfer edited material directly and more quickly as opposed to real-time transfer which would take a lot longer. I also recommend a decent brand of recordable DVD (single or dual layer) for finalisation in this unit (such as Verbatim); cheap ones (such as magmedia) won't last very long.

The digital tuner is SD only; it cannot decode HD channels, but as with other models of the series, this is a limitation, not a con, and I can always connect a set top box to it if I need HD (I have one ready to go).

I realise the model I have (DMR-EX78) was manufactured in 2008 (visible by the date code next to the serial number on the rear panel label), but so far it has proven to be a reliable work horse and I would definitely consider purchasing a newer model Panasonic combo like this again. If I do, it might be a brand spanking new one with a 320GB HDD (and possible extended warranty if available).

I didn't think hard drive recorders would be that good, but the DMR-EX78 has proven me wrong on every count. I don't expect this one to last a lifetime as it wasn't bought new, but if I can get a couple of months' use out of it, I'm happy as a puppy with a new toy.

Hard drives offer better and more storage than DVDs, memory cards, or tape. I believe I made a smart decision. 250GB hard drive and easy of copying to DVD at high speed.

u88 error code – Only a couple months out of waranty and machine wont boot up. error code U88. Panasonic not interested to help, and rude, makes more sense to buy a cheaper no name brand. Also does not record hi definition channels even though H/D was all over the point of sale cards. playback while recording Broke down, doesnt play high def

Good – I had a previous model (DMR-EH60) for 3 years (still working). It looks complicated at first but once you have worked your way through, it's not difficult to use. There are a couple of handy functions in the EH60 which are missing in this one: the "time slip" function has changed. On the previous model, time slip meant that when you were watching a recording, you were able to see what was on live tv (no sound) on the bottom right hand corner. In this model, time slip means you can advance the playback instead of fast forwarding - not a feature I use. Also you were able to save up to 20 names of programmes that you frequently recorded which saved a tedious job. I contacted Pananasonic who advised to use the Program Guide to save titles. Unfortunately, this feature is not available on satellite tv in rural Australia. I mainly got this model as I was used to the older one and how to use functions so laziness entered into my decision, also tv is Panasonic. One note of warning - don't use cheap blank dvds to burn programs as finalisation may not work after a while (as it doesn't in my older model). Improves picture quality; once timer settings are inputted, automatically sets timer - no need to turn off recorder Takes a few seconds to turn on in powersave mode; cannot save names of frequently recorded programmes

Program choice and record to hard drive on xp to extended play – Once set up great alternative to hiring " Austar set top box record 80 gb" this stores up to 6 times e.p programs the Austar product does. Editing was very easy. Only glitch if holding remote control in hand "program "check button" engaged accidentally lower rh