Using menus to play MP3.27 Playing still pictures.28
Useful functions during still picture play. 29
Using on-screen menus and Status messages.30
On-screen menus. 30 Status messages. 31

Editing

Editing titles/chapters.32
Editing titles/chapters and playing chapters. 32 Title operations. 33 Chapter operations. 33
Creating, editing and playing play lists.34
Creating play lists. Editing and playing play lists/chapters. Play list operations. Chapter operations. 35 35
Editing still pictures.36
Picture and folder operation. 36

Useful features

This DVD Video recorder records high quality images to rapid random access capable HDD (Hard disk drive) or DVD-RAM. This has resulted in many new features that out perform older tape formats. The following information summarizes a few of these features.
TV Guide On ScreenTM system
The TV Guide On ScreenTM system provides a handy electronic program guide (EPG) for checking whats on. Setting up to record a broadcast is easy too. Simply select the desired program from the displayed list. You can also search for desired programs alphabetically or by displaying only the programs in a certain category. This service may not be available in some areas.

Instant recording

You no longer need to search for empty disc space. By pressing the recording button, the unit finds available recording space and begins recording right away. There is no need to worry about overwriting already recorded content.

Instant play

There is no need to rewind or search forward. Direct Navigator guides you to the beginning of the recorded video immediately.

HDD recording

You can keep on recording your favorite programs to an internal HDD that is able to record up to 284 hours when using EP (8H) mode. You can also high speed transfer (dub) your favorite programs to DVD-RAM or DVD-R and create a backup disc.

Chasing playback

There is no need to wait until recording is complete. Without stopping recording, you can play the video currently being recorded from its beginning.

PC TIME SLIP

DRIVE SELECT

L2 S-VIDEO IN VIDEO IN

L/MONO AUDIO IN R

Connection for camcorder, etc. ( page 41) Connection for digital video (DV) camcorder ( page 41) Rear panel terminals ( page 7)
Time Slip indicator ( page 18) Skip the specified time/Display the television image as a picture-in-picture ( page 18, 25) Lights when the HDD or DVD drive is selected Channel select ( page 16) Skip/Slow/Search ( page 25)

Display ( below)

The units display
Recording mode Card indicator Timer recording indicator HDD indicator

HDD SD PC XP

Transferring (dubbing) in progress indicator

DVD - R AM

VCD.MIX

REC PLAY

SP LP EP CH

PLAY REC

e.g., [HDD]
Main display section Channel Recording Playback Recording/Playback DVD - R AM
EXT Link EXT Link EXT Link
Disc type D.MIX (multi-channel DVD-Audio only) When lit: Down-mixed audio is played. When off: The disc prevents down-mixing so only the two front channels can be played.

7392en.book 6

STEP 1 Connection
Examples of equipment you can connect to this units terminals

Television Amplifier

From OUT1 or OUT2 terminals This unit To IN3 (L3) input terminals (rear)
From AUDIO OUT terminals or DIGITAL AUDIO OUT terminal
To L2 or DV input terminals (front) ( page 41)
To IN1 (L1) input terminals (rear)
Video cassette recorder Cable TV box

Camcorder

Do not place the unit on amplifiers or equipment that may become hot.
The heat can damage the unit.
When the unit is not to be used for a long time
To save power, unplug it from the household AC outlet. This unit consumes a small amount of power, even when it is turned off (approx. 15 W). Note that the television program list is not downloaded while the unit is unplugged.
Before moving the unit, ensure the disc tray is empty.

Press [HDD] or [DVD] to select the playback drive.
Title cannot be played [When transferring (dubbing) a title to the HDD, or when data is damaged, etc.] Currently recording. Titles that have been rerouted to the HDD ( page 21, Relief Recording) Title with One time only recording restriction
When a menu screen appears on the television
[DVD-A] [DVD-V] Press [3, 4, 2, 1] to select the item and press [ENTER]. Some items can also be selected using the numbered buttons. [VCD] Press the numbered buttons to select the item. e.g., 5: [0] [5] 15: [1] [5] To return to the menu screen [DVD-A] Press [TOP MENU]. [DVD-V] Press [TOP MENU] or [SUB MENU]. [VCD] Press [RETURN].

7392en.book 25

Operations during play
The stopped position is memorized. PLAY flashes in the units display. (Excluding when playing from the Direct Navigator and when playing a play list.) Resume play function Press [1] (PLAY) to restart from this position.
Press again to restart play.

Press [6] or [5].

Search
On the main unit, press and hold [D] or [E]. The speed increases up to 5 steps. Press [1] (PLAY) to restart play. Audio is heard during first level search forward. You can turn off the sound during search ( page 48, Search Audio & PLAY k1.3). Audio is heard during all levels of search. [DVD-A] (excluding moving picture parts) [CD]

Press [:] or [9].

On the main unit, press [D] or [E]. Each press increases the number of skips.
Press the numbered buttons.
e.g., 5: 15: [0] [5] [1] [5] [HDD] [CD] (MP3 discs only) 5: 15: [0] [0] [5] [0] [1] [5]
Starting from a selected item
[DVD-A] Selecting groups While stopped (screen saver is displayed on the television right) 5: [5] This works only when stopped (screen saver is displayed on the television right) with some discs.

Quick View

[HDD] [RAM] The play speed can be increased without distorting the audio.
Press and hold [1] (PLAY/a1.3).
Press again to return to normal speed. This does not work if the setting is Off in Search Audio & PLAY k1.3 ( page 48).
While paused, press [6] or [5].

Slow-motion

[HDD] [RAM] [DVD-R] [DVD-A] (Motion picture parts only) [DVD-V] [VCD]
On the main unit, press and hold [D] or [E]. The speed increases up to 5 steps. Press [1] (PLAY) to restart play. Forward direction only. [VCD] The unit will pause if slow-motion play is continued for 5 minutes.

Frame-by-frame

While paused, press [2;] or [;1].
Each press shows the next frame. Press [1] (PLAY) to restart play. Forward direction only. [VCD]
Displaying the television image as a picture-in-picture
The unit displays the television image as a picture-in-picture. You will hear the playback audio. Press [TIME SLIP] again to cancel. The blue background does not appear on the receiving screen even if you select On from the Blue Background in the SETUP menu ( page 49).

No. 0 9

You cannot select groups that contain no compatible files.

TOP MENU

3421 ENTER RETURN
Press [3, 4, 2, 1] to select a group and press [ENTER].
The file list for the group appears.
To return to the file list Press [RETURN]. Tips for making MP3 discs Discs must conform to ISO9660 level 1 or 2 (except for extended formats). Compatible compression rate: between 32 kbps and 320 kbps Compatible sampling rate: 16 kHz, 22.05 kHz, 24 kHz, 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz Maximum number of tracks and groups recognizable: 999 tracks and 99 groups This unit is compatible with multi-session. This unit is not compatible with ID3 tags or packet writing. Depending on recording, some items may not be playable. Reading or play of the disc may take time if there are a lot of still pictures or sessions. The display order may differ from how the order is displayed on a computer. Naming folders and files MP3 files must have the extension.MP3 or.mp3. At the time of recording, give folder and file names a 3-digit numeric prefix in the order you want them to play (this may not work at times). English alphabets and Arabic numerals are displayed correctly. Other characters may not be displayed correctly. e.g., Root
[CD] (MP3 discs only) This unit plays MP3 files recorded on CD-R/RW designed for audio recording that are finalized ( page 53) on a computer. Files are treated as tracks and folders are treated as groups.

Press [TOP MENU].

Selected group

MENU G 1 T 1 TOTAL 1/111

No. GROUP 1 : My favorite TOTAL TRACK TREE 001 Both Ends Freezing Lady Starfish Life on Jupiter Metal Glue Paint It Yellow Pyjamamama Shrimps from Mars Starperson Velvet Cuppermine Ziggy Starfish 10
G: Group No. T: Track No. in the group TOTAL: Track No./Total tracks in all groups
001 (folder=group) 001track.mp3 (file=track) 002track.mp3 003track.mpgroup

003 group

Press [3, 4] to select the track and press [ENTER].
Play continues to the last track in the last group. 0 indicates the track currently playing. You can also select the track with the numbered buttons. e.g., 5: [0] [0] [5] 15: [0] [1] [5]

Setting

Depending on the condition of the unit (playing, stopped, etc.) and disc contents, there are some items that you cannot select or change.
Signal type Sampling frequency Number of bits Number of channels
Press [3, 4] to select the menu and press [1]. Press [3, 4] to select the item and press [1]. Press [3, 4] to select the setting.
Some items can be changed by pressing [ENTER].
To clear the on-screen menus Press [DISPLAY].

7392en.book 31

Play menuChange the play sequence
This function works only when the elapsed play time is displayed. Repeat play All [VCD] [CD] (excluding MP3 discs) Chapter [HDD] [RAM] [DVD-R] [DVD-V] Group [DVD-A] [CD] (MP3 discs only) PL (Play list) [HDD] [RAM] Title [HDD] [RAM] [DVD-R] [DVD-V] Track [DVD-A] [VCD] [CD] Select OFF to cancel.
Audio menuChange the sound effect
V.S.S. [HDD] [RAM] [DVD-R] [DVD-V] (Dolby Digital, 2-channel or over only) Enjoy a surround-like effect if you are using two front speakers only. Turn V.S.S. off if it causes distortion. V.S.S. does not work for SAP recordings. Dialog Enhancer [DVD-A] [DVD-V] (Dolby Digital, 3-channel or over only, including a center channel) The volume of the center channel is raised to make dialog easier to hear.
Video menuChange the picture quality
Picture Normal: Soft: Fine: Cinema: User: Default setting Soft picture with fewer video artifacts Details are sharper Mellows movies, enhances detail in dark scenes. You can make further adjustments. Press [3, 4, 2, 1] to select Detail picture adjustment and press [ENTER]. Contrast Increases the contrast between light and dark parts of the picture. Brightness Brightens the picture. Sharpness Adjust the sharpness of the edges of the horizontal lines. Color Adjusts the shade of the pictures color. Gamma Increases the brightness of the center ranges to improve detail and contrast in dark scenes. 3D NR Reduces overall noise. Integrated DNR Reduces mosaic noise and character smudging.

Status messages

Status messages appear on the television during operation to show the condition of the unit.

Press [STATUS].

The display changes each time you press the button. Displayed information are examples. Selected drive/type of disc HDD Recording or play status/input REC channel PLAY Audio type LR DVD REC Recording drive/ Transfer (dubbing) progress indicator
Title number and elapsed time during recording/Recording mode Available recording time and recording mode Date and time
Remain 6/8 10:15 PM T2 0:05.14 XP T1 0:00.10 SP 0:50 XP

To cancel all registered transferring (dubbing) setting and lists In step 3 ( left) 1 Press [3, 4] to select Cancel all and press [ENTER]. 2 Press [2, 1] to select Yes and press [ENTER]. The settings and lists may be cancelled in the following situations. When a still picture or folder has been recorded or erased at the transfer (dubbing) source When steps have been taken, for instance, to turn off the unit, remove the card, open the tray, change the transfer (dubbing) direction, etc. To show other pages Press [3, 4, 2, 1] to select Previous or Next and press [ENTER]. You can also press [:, 9] to show other pages. Multiple editing Select with [3, 4, 2, 1] and press [;]. (Repeat.) Press [ENTER] to register to the list. A check mark appears. Press [;] again to cancel.

7392en.book 43

FUNCTIONS window
Transferring (dubbing) all the still pictures on a cardCOPY ALL PICTURES
[SD] or [PC] > [HDD] or [RAM] Preparation Press [SD/PC] to select the source drive.

DVD 3 6

Press [FUNCTIONS]. Press [3, 4, 2, 1] to select COPY ALL PICTURES and press [ENTER].

Copy All Pictures (JPEG)

Copy from \DCIM SD card
Copy to HDD \JPEG\DCIM001 Copy all pictures (JPEG) in the card
If there is a multiple number of higher folders recognizable, you can switch them using [2, 1].
To stop transferring (dubbing) Press and hold [RETURN] for 3 seconds. To return to the previous screen Press [RETURN].
By using the FUNCTIONS window you may access the main functions quickly and easily.
When transferring (dubbing) the still pictures on a folder by folder or card by card basis, files other than the still picture files inside the folder will also be transferred (dubbed). (This does not apply to the lower folders contained inside the folders.) If still pictures are already contained inside the transfer (dubbing) destination folder, the new still pictures are recorded following the existing still pictures. If the space on the destination drive runs out or the number of files/folders to be transferred (dubbed) exceeds the maximum ( page 28), transferring (dubbing) will stop partway through. When a name has been input by this unit for the transfer (dubbing) source folder, the folder name will be reflected in the transfer (dubbing) destination folder. Print number setting (DPOF) is not transferred (dubbed). The sequence in which the still pictures are registered on the transfer (dubbing) list may not be reflected at the transfer (dubbing) destination.

Enabling DVD-R to be played on other equipmentFinalize
[DVD-R] Preparation Press [DVD] to select the DVD drive.
Recording/Editing/Entering name Play on other players
Press [FUNCTIONS]. Press [3, 4, 2, 1] to select DISC SETTING and press [ENTER].
DVD-R finalized on this unit may not be playable on other players due to the condition of the recording. Visit Panasonics homepage for more information about DVDs. http://www.panasonic.com/playDVD-R
Press [FUNCTIONS]. Press [3, 4, 2, 1] to select DISC SETTING or CARD SETTING and press [ENTER]. Press [3, 4] to select Format or Format disc and press [ENTER]. Press [2, 1] to select Yes and press [ENTER]. Press [2, 1] to select Start and press [ENTER].
Press [3, 4] to select Select First play and press [ENTER].
Press [3, 4] to select Top Menu or Title 1 and press [ENTER]. You can select whether to show the top menu after finalizing. Top Menu: The top menu appears first. Title 1: The disc content is played without displaying the top menu.
Press [3, 4] to select Finalize and press [ENTER].

7392en.book 46

Entering text

Show Enter Name screen.

Title Select Enter Name in step 4 on page 32. Play list Select Enter Name in step 4 on page 35. Disc Select Disc Name in step 3 on page 44. Folder of still pictures Select Folder Name in step 4 on page 36. Name field: shows the text you have entered

Enter Name _

Display in DVD-R TOP MENU

CANCEL ;

2 A 3 D 4 G

2 B E H K Q U

3 C F I L O R V Y ?

5 a d g j

6 b e h

7 c f i l

i j l % $

& _ ) | ^

; ERASE

5 J 7 P 8 T

k m n S Z ! p t w " q u x '

O N @ s { z ; ( } \ `

r v y :

9 W X 0. ,

Press [3, 4, 2, 1] to select a character and press [ENTER].
Repeat this step to enter other characters. To erase a character Press [3, 4, 2, 1] to select the character in the name field and press [;]. Using the numbered buttons to enter characters e.g., entering the letter R 5 J K 1Press [7] to move to the 7th row. 6 M N 7 2Press [7] twice to highlight R. 7 P Q 3Press [ENTER].
[HDD] [RAM] [DVD-R] [SD] [PC] You can give names to recorded titles, etc. The maximum number of characters: [HDD] [RAM] Title Play list Disc Folder of still pictures Characters 64 36

L O R V S

To enter a space Press [ CANCEL] and press [ENTER].
[DVD-R] Title Disc [SD] [PC] Folder of still pictures

Characters Characters 36

Press [] (SET).

Dolby Digital

Select how to output the signal, to output Bitstream so the connected equipment decodes the signal, or to decode on this unit and output the signal as PCM (2 channel).
Not making the proper settings may result in noise, possibly damage your hearing and speakers, and digital recording may not work properly.
Audio for XP Recording Choose the audio type when recording or transferring (dubbing) with XP mode.
Dolby Digital ( page 53) LPCM ( page 53) The picture quality of LPCM recordings may be lower than that of normal XP mode recordings. The audio recording becomes Dolby Digital even if you selected LPCM when using a recording mode other than XP. When recording MTS broadcast, select the type of audio in advance from Select MTS ( page 48). Stereo 1: Records audio (L1, R1). Stereo 2: Records added audio such as narration (L2, R2) subsequent to original recording. Mix: Records both Stereo 1 and Stereo 2. When recording MTS broadcast, select the type of audio in advance from Select MTS ( page 48). Automatic Off
Select Audio CH for DV Input You can select the kind of audio when recording from the units DV terminal ( page 41).

Display

Status Messages Choose whether to show status messages automatically. On-screen Language Choose the language for these menus and on-screen messages. Blue Background Select Off if you do not want to have the unit show the blue background when reception is weak. Front Display Changes the brightness of the units display.
English Espaol Franais Only English is displayed in the TV Guide On ScreenTM system regardless of the settings. Other languages cannot be displayed. On Off
Dim Bright Automatic: The display turns dark during play, and reappears momentarily if a button is pressed. When the unit is turned off all displays disappear. While using this mode the standby power consumption can be reduced. Aspect 4:3 & 480I Aspect 16:9 & 480I Aspect 4:3 & 480P Aspect 16:9 & 480P

TV Screen

TV Type ( page 12) 4:3 TV Settings for DVD-Video Select how DVD-Video widescreen picture is shown on a 4:3 standard aspect television.
Pan & Scan: Video recorded for a widescreen is played as Pan & Scan (unless prohibited by the producer of the disc). Letterbox: Video recorded for a widescreen is played in the letterbox style. 4:3: Titles played as recorded. Pan & Scan: Video recorded for a widescreen is played as Pan & Scan. Letterbox: Video recorded for a widescreen is played in the letterbox style.
4:3 TV Settings for DVD-RAM Select how DVD-RAM widescreen picture is shown on a 4:3 standard aspect television.

7392en.book 50

Channel/Clock settings when TV Guide On ScreenTM system is not used
Refer to the control reference on page 47. Preparation: If the television program list has already been downloaded, return the unit to the factory preset condition using the steps indicated below. When the unit is on and stopped 1 Press and hold [X CH] and [W CH] on the main unit for about five seconds. The unit turns off. 2 Press [ DVD POWER] to turn the unit on. 3 Complete the TV Guide On ScreenTM system setup (until [ENTER] is pressed after the Watch TV message screen is displayed).

TV GUIDE Setting

Antenna System
Channel Set Up Disc Video Audio Display TV Screen
Auto Channel Setting Channel Captions Preset Channel Captions Manual Channel Captions
Press [3, 4] to select Channel and press [1].
Preset Channel Captions Manual Channel Captions

Preset Captions

Caption Channel Number
Press [3, 4] to select the channel and press [1].
Channels are only displayed if they contain a station and if preset captions have not been added.

ABC PBS CBS

Press [3, 4] to select the first character and press [1].
You can choose from the following characters: AZ, 09, -, &, !, /, (space) To delete the caption, press [ CANCEL]. Repeat this step to enter the other characters.

Manual Captions

Channel Number Caption
Press [3, 4] to select the caption and press [1].
You can choose from the following captions. ABC, PBS, CBS, CNN, FOX, ESPN, NBC, HBO, A&E, AMC, FAM, MAX, MTV, SHOW, TBS, USA, TNT, CBC, UPN, CTV, WB, TSN, DSC, GLOB When selecting the caption, press and hold [3, 4] to scroll up and down the screen.
Press [3, 4] to select the channel corresponding to the caption and press [2].
Channels are only displayed if they contain a station and if captions have not been added manually. To delete the channel number, press [ CANCEL]. Repeat steps 4 and 5 to enter other channels.

------AAAA -------

Press [2, 1] to return to the Channel Number column.
Repeat steps 46 to enter other channels.
Press [3, 4] to select Preset Channel Captions and press [ENTER].
Press [3, 4] to select Manual Channel Captions and press [ENTER].

7392en.book 52

Specifications
Recording system: DVD Video Recording format (DVD-RAM) DVD-Video format (DVD-R) Television system Tuner system: Antenna reception input: NTSC-M TV Channel: 2 ch69 ch, 75 CATV Channel: 1 ch125 ch, 75 Not provided
Recordable discs: DVD-RAM : 12 cm (5q) 4.7 GB, 12 cm (5q) 9.4 GB, 8 cm (3q) 2.8 GB 12 cm (5q) 4.7 GB (Ver. 2.1/3kSPEED DVD-RAM Revision 1.0) DVD-R : 12 cm (5q) 4.7 GB, 8cm (3q) 1.4 GB (for General Ver. 2.0) 12 cm (5z) 4.7 GB (for General Ver. 2.0/4kSPEED DVD-R Revision 1.0) Recording time: Maximum 8 hours (with 4.7 GB disc) SP: Approx. 2 hours XP: Approx. 1 hour LP: Approx. 4 hours EP: Approx. 6 hours/8 hours Maximum 284 hours (with built-in 160 GB HDD) XP: Approx. 36 hours SP: Approx. 70 hours LP: Approx. 138 hours EP: Approx. 212 hours/284 hours Playable discs: DVD-RAM : 12 cm (5q) 4.7 GB, 12 cm (5q) 9.4 GB, 8 cm (3q) 2.8 GB 12 cm (5q) 4.7 GB (Ver. 2.1/3kSPEED DVD-RAM Revision 1.0) DVD-R : 12 cm (5q) 4.7 GB, 8cm (3q) 1.4 GB (for General Ver. 2.0) 12 cm (5z) 4.7 GB (for General Ver. 2.0/4kSPEED DVD-R Revision 1.0) DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, Video CD, CD-Audio (CD-DA) CD-R/CD-RW (MP3, CD-DA, Video CD formatted discs) Built-in HDD Capacity: 160 GB Drive unit: High Speed Drive (correspond to 4 times speed with DVD-R disc and 3 times speed with DVD-RAM disc) LASER Specification Class I LASER Product Wave length: 795 nm wavelength (for CDs), 658 nm wavelength (for DVD) Laser power: No hazardous radiation is emitted with the safety protection Audio system Recording system: Dolby Digital 2 ch, Linear PCM (XP mode, 2ch) Input: LINE (pin jack)a3 Reference input: 309 mVrms, FS: 2 Vrms (1 kHz, 0 dB) Input Impedance: 47 k Output: LINE (pin jack)a2 (Load impedance: 10 k) Reference output: 309 mVrms, FS: 2 Vrms (1 kHz, 0 dB) Output Impedance: 1 k Digital Audio Out: Optical terminal (PCM, Dolby Digital, DTS)

Frame Field Field A frame still shows two fields, so there may be some blurring, but picture quality is generally better. A field still shows less picture information so it may be rougher, but there is no blurring.

7392en.book 54

Frequently asked questions
What equipment is necessary to play multi channel surround sound? DVD-Video: You can play DVD-Video multi channel surround by digitally connecting an amplifier equipped with a Dolby Digital and a DTS decoder. DVD-Audio: This unit plays DVD-Audio in 2 channels. You cannot play multi channel surround sound. You cannot directly connect to the unit. Connect through the amplifier, etc. We recommend the COMPONENT VIDEO IN terminal. Component signal outputs the color difference signals (PB/PR) and luminance signal (Y) separately in order to achieve high fidelity in reproducing colors. If the television is compatible with progressive output, a high quality picture can be output because this units component video output terminal outputs a progressive output signal. All Panasonic televisions that have 480P input terminals are compatible. Consult the manufacturer if you have another brand of television.
Are the headphones and speakers directly connected to the unit? The television has both S-VIDEO IN terminal and COMPONENT VIDEO IN terminals. Which terminal should I connect with?
Is my television progressive output compatible?
Can I play DVD-Video, DVD-Audio and Video CDs bought in another country? Can a DVD-Video that does not have a region number be played? Please tell me about DVD-R and DVD-RW compatibility with this unit. You can play them if the video standard is NTSC. However, you cannot play DVD-Video if their region number does not include 1 or ALL. The DVD-Video region number indicates the disc conforms to a standard. You cannot play discs that do not have a region number. This unit records and plays DVD-R. However, you cannot record onto DVD-R discs that are finalized. This unit also records and plays high speed recording compatible discs. This unit does not record or play DVD-RW. This unit plays CD-R/CD-RW discs (audio recording discs) which have been recorded under one of the following standards: CD-DA, MP3 and Video CD. Close the session or finalize the disc after recording. You cannot write to a CD-R or CD-RW with this unit. Cover

Page 48

An unusually loud sound coming from the rotating DVD-R. The DV automatic recording function does not work.
TV Guide On ScreenTM system Television program list does not display when [TV GUIDE] is pressed. Leave the unit turned off over night. Check the connection and set up the TV Guide On ScreenTM system again. Consult your service provider if you are using a cable TV box. Television program list is not available in your area. Set the unit using Auto Channel Setting. Note that you can only set timer recording manually after you set the unit using Auto Channel Setting. The unit cannot find the correct IR code for the cable TV box. Consult your service provider. 7, 8, 10 50
Cable code -INCOMPLETE- appears in the TV Guide On ScreenTM system setup. As soon as the unit is turned on, and when you try to start timer recording, the TV Guide On ScreenTM system setup begins. Several days of television program listings are blank. Channel changes even when no operation is performed. Play Play fails to start even when [1] (PLAY) is pressed. Play starts but then stops immediately.
Even if you do not want to use the TV Guide On ScreenTM system, you need to complete the TV Guide On ScreenTM system setup (until [ENTER] is pressed after the Watch TV message screen is displayed). It will not be displayed after this point.
Immediately after beginning use there are several days of blank listings. You can display program listings up to 8 days forward without any blank listings by downloading program lists continuously over several days. When the unit is connected to a cable TV box, the cable TV box channel changes while the unit is turned off in order to download the television program list.
Insert the disc correctly with the label facing up. You tried to play a blank DVD-RAM/DVD-R, or disc unplayable on this unit. You may be able to transfer (dub) a One time only recording title that was recorded to DVDRAM using a different Panasonic DVD Recorder to this units HDD, but play is not possible due to copyright protection. When recording to DVD-RAM using EP (8H) mode, play may not be possible on DVD players that are compatible with DVD-RAM. In this case use EP (6H) mode. You cannot play discs during DV automatic recording. This occurs between play list chapters. This occurs between chapters and with partially deleted titles on finalized DVD-R that have been transferred (dubbed) using the high speed mode. Some DVD-Video cannot be played when you change the ratings level. The languages are not recorded on the disc. You may have to use the discs menus to select languages. When progressive output is on, closed captions cannot be displayed. Subtitles are not recorded on the disc. Turn the subtitles on. Angles can only be changed during scenes where different angles are recorded. While the disc tray is open, press [DVD] then press and hold [D] and [E] on the main unit at the same time for 5 or more seconds. This does not work if the setting is Off in Search Audio & PLAY k1.3. This does not work when audio is other than Dolby Digital. This does not work when recording is in XP or FR mode. [RAM] This function only works when PLAY is flashing on the unit display. Memorized positions are canceled when the unit is turned off or when the tray is opened. The memorized position on the play list is also canceled when the play list and title are edited.

Immediately save (backup) all content as soon as you feel there may be problem with the HDD
If there is an irregularity within the HDD, strange sounds or problems with picture (block noise, etc.) may result. Using the HDD in this condition may worsen the problem and in the worst case the HDD

7392en.book 61

Limited Warranty
Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, Division of Matsushita Electric Corporation of America One Panasonic Way Secaucus, New Jersey 07094 Panasonic Sales Company, Division of Matsushita Electric of Puerto Rico, Inc., Ave. 65 de Infantera, Km. 9.5 San Gabriel Industrial Park, Carolina, Puerto Rico 00985
Panasonic DVD Recorder Limited Warranty
Limited Warranty Coverage If your product does not work properly because of a defect in materials or workmanship, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company or Panasonic Sales Company (collectively referred to as the warrantor) will, for the length of the period indicated on the chart below, which starts with the date of original purchase (warranty period), at its option either (a) repair your product with new or refurbished parts, or (b) replace it with a new or a refurbished product. The decision to repair or replace will be made by the warrantor. Product or Part Name DVD Recorder Rechargeable Batteries, DVD-RAM Disc (in exchange for defective item) Parts One (1) Year Labor One (1) Year Limited Warranty Limits And Exclusions This warranty ONLY COVERS failures due to defects in materials or workmanship, and DOES NOT COVER normal wear and tear or cosmetic damage. The warranty ALSO DOES NOT COVER damages which occurred in shipment, or failures which are caused by products not supplied by the warrantor, or failures which result from accidents, misuse, abuse, neglect, mishandling, misapplication, alteration, faulty installation, set-up adjustments, misadjustment of consumer controls, improper maintenance, power line surge, lightning damage, modification, or commercial use (such as in a hotel, office, restaurant, or other business), rental use of the product, service by anyone other than a Factory Servicenter or other Authorized Servicer, or damage that is attributable to acts of God.

Ten (10) Days

Not Applicable
During the Labor warranty period there will be no charge for labor. During the Parts warranty period, there will be no charge for parts. You must carry-in or mail-in your product during the warranty period. If non-rechargeable batteries are included, they are not warranted. This warranty only applies to products purchased and serviced in the United States or Puerto Rico. This warranty is extended only to the original purchaser of a new product which was not sold as is. A purchase receipt or other proof of the original purchase date is required for warranty service. Carry-In or Mail-In Service For Carry-In or Mail-In Service in the United States call 1-800-211-PANA (7262) or visit Panasonic Web Site: http://www.panasonic.com For assistance in Puerto Rico call Panasonic Sales Company (787)-750-4300 or fax (787)-768-2910.

Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories. DTS and DTS 2.0 i Digital Out are trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc. U.S. patent Nos. 4,631,603, 4,577,216, 4,819,098, and 4,907,093. MPEG Layer-3 audio decoding technology licensed from Fraunhofer IIS and Thomson multimedia.
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision, and is intended for home and other limited consumer uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited. SD logo is a trademark. Portions of this product are protected under copyright law and are provided under license by ARIS/SOLANA/4C.
Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, Division of Matsushita Electric Corporation of America
One Panasonic Way Secaucus, New Jersey 07094 http://www.panasonic.com C 2004 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Printed in Japan
Panasonic Sales Company, Division of Matsushita Electric of Puerto Rico, Inc. (PSC)
Ave. 65 de Infantera, Km. 9.5 San Gabriel Industrial Park, Carolina, Puerto Rico 00985

F0404YU0

1104wv26 JVC DR-MH30

9/20/04

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JVC DR-MH30
FEATURES DVD-RAM/-R/-RW recording; plays: DVD, DVD-R, DVD-RW (Video and VR modes), DVD+RW, DVD+R, DVD-RAM, CD, CD-R, CD-RW, VCD, MP3; 160GB hard disk; high-speed search; still picture; frame advance; slow motion; Natural Reverse playback (-1x); resume/repeat/A-B repeat/program/random playback; simulated surround sound; picture quality adjust; PAL progressive scan; four recording modes; Free Rate recording mode; instant timer recording; one-year, 16-event timer; VideoPlus; PDC; live memory playback; 1.5x speed search; VideoPlus timer; auto satellite recording; library database; delete title; partially delete title (DVD only); modify chapter; create playlist; high-speed dubbing; Just Dubbing; DV dubbing; satellite control; dynamic range compression; parental lock; onscreen display; multi-brand remote control; dimensions: 435(w) x 70(h) x 345.5(d)mm SOCKETS Front: DV input; S-video input; composite video input; stereo audio input Rear: component video output; 2 Scarts (RGB output, S-video input); S-video output; optical digital audio output; electrical digital audio output; stereo audio output; RF aerial sockets CONTACT 5000 www.jvc.co.uk TEST DATA DVD PLAYBACK Video jitter: 25ns (poor) Signal-to-noise ratio: (composite): -59.0dB (poor) (S-video): -61.9dB (average) (component): -56.9dB (poor) Chrominance AM/PM: -64.4dB/-60.1dB (good/average) Chroma crosstalk: -55.0dB (average) Frequency response at 5.8MHz: (composite): -2.44dB (average) (S-video): -2.85dB (average) (component): -2.3dB (average) Audio jitter: 3204.2ps (poor) RECORDING Chrominance AM/PM (SP): -55.6dB/-57.5dB (good/good) Frequency response: XP: -0.4dB@4MHz (excellent) SP: -0.3dB@4MHz (excellent) LP: -0.5dB@2MHz (excellent) EP: -2.0dB@2MHz (average) For a full explanation of test data, see page 128

HDD/DVD recorder 700

Sporting three DVD formats and a massive 160GB hard disk, JVCs latest recorder has a lot to offer. David Smith measures it against its Panasonic rival
aking on the Panasonic DMR-E95H is this attractive deck from JVC, which comes in a substantial 100 cheaper and yet retains most of the features of the DMR-E95H, as well as adding a few of its own. This should be quite a scrap.

DESCRIPTION

JVCs designs have been impressing us for some time now and this machine is no exception. The centrally located disc tray emits a cool blue glow when the deck is powered up, capping a futuristic appearance. Connectivity is very good, with component video outputs (good for PAL prog scan), S-video and composite support, plus both electrical and optical digital audio outputs (the Panasonic sports optical only). The two Scart sockets will be of greatest interest to most people but careful scrutiny of the manual reveals that the input Scart accepts only composite or S-video signals. This means you cannot hook up the RGB output of a digibox, which is a real shame. If you record only from your aerial input this isnt a concern, but as more people switch to digital TV it is likely to put many off. JVC opts for DVD-RAM and R disc compatibility, and also adds -RW. Our bet is that most people will only ever use R discs, having first recorded and edited their material on the hard disk. Speaking of the hard disk, like the Panasonic deck, JVCs new model packs a 160GB punch, which is not to be sniffed at. Throw in the digital video input and this is a well-specified deck, apart from that RGB slip-up.

OPERATION

There are four recording modes available: XP, SP, LP and EP. These correspond to
(approximately) 34, 68, 136 and 204hrs of storage on the hard disk. JVC also adds its Free Rate mode a user-definable bitrate setting between 1.2 and 10Mbps in 63 steps. This offers a lower recording rate than EP mode and boosts potential hard-disk space to 272hrs. Live Memory is a feature that not only allows you to simultaneously record and playback la Timeslip but also to go back and retrospectively record something youve just been watching but werent originally recording. This is because the deck can be set to continuously save the current channel on a reserved part of the hard disk (for 30min, 1hr or 3hr). Despite the fact that it takes ages to change channel when activated, its a great feature that the Panasonic doesnt offer (but the Philips HDRW720 does). If you own a progressive scan-capable monitor you will be able to make use of the Motion Active progressive scan output (for video sources) and the Digital Direct progressive scan output (for film sources). For those not using a full-scale home cinema audio system there is a virtual surround sound feature, which should add a bit more width to the normal stereo soundstage. Editing on the JVC is accomplished using the familiar playlist system. You can divide a title into separate chapters, then select which of these are to go on to a playlist for dubbing to DVD. Navigation uses thumbnail images to easily chapters easily. Simply by designating an ad break as a separate chapter and not
adding it to the playlist, you effectively edit it out when archiving the programme to DVD. The DR-MH30 also offers a neat trick when dubbing from HDD to DVD, optimising the transfer bitrate to ensure the best picture quality within the available space, and you can enjoy high-speed dubbing at up to 32x normal speed. When finalising a DVD-R disc you are offered a choice of menus (from a list of 18 fairly attractive options). Further convenience comes in the relief recording mode, which automatically dumps an entire programme on to the hard disk if there is insufficient space on the DVD to hold it. This convenience carries over into a decent onscreen menu system and the auto set-up function should mean you are up and running in no time. As is usual with such combis, there is a lot for you to learn, but there is nothing

A futuristic design with snazzy multicoloured lights on the fascia
66 November 2004 I WHAT VIDEO AND WIDESCREEN TV
AV inputs? Check. DV inputs? Check. All the sockets you need

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Clash of the Titans

unduly difficult in the operation and regular use will soon have you zipping around the features like a pro.

FACT FILE

G 160GB hard disk G DVD-RAM/-R/-RW G G G G G

PERFORMANCE

Despite the fact that there is no RGB input, this deck manages to capture a very pleasing image. There is a huge amount of detail on recordings made in the highest-quality XP mode. We cant really complain about the SP mode either, which means that you have a massive 68hrs worth of storage on this deck at a very high picture standard. Deterioration becomes apparent at the two lower levels and in EP mode the shimmering effect is quite intrusive. The JVCs editing system is fairly easy to get to grips with but when you have assembled a playlist you become aware of the rather messy edit points. Where the Panasonic DMR-E95H makes a smooth
recording PAL progressive scan 4 x recording modes DV input 16-event/one-year timer Live Memory
transition thanks to a neat fade in and out, the DR-MH30 cuts sound for a second before switching to the next segment on the playlist. When viewing the playlist directly from the hard disk the result is quite disappointing but the good news is that it improves when dubbed to a DVD. The edit points are still not exactly smooth but the transition is a bit less intrusive than when you watch the same playlist on the hard disk. The only other complaint would be that the remote is a touch unresponsive, often ignoring commands if not pointed straight at the deck. Pre-recorded DVDs play back with wonderful results. The Scart output is RGB-capable, remember, so you get the full impact of colourful material like Finding Nemo and the trick-play functions work well. This deck is also a good match for the Panasonic in terms of sound performance. There is nothing to gripe about when enjoying CD playback.

WHATS GOOD

DVD playback; HDD and DVD recording; Live Memory

WHATS BAD

Messy editing; no RGB input
PICTURE (PLAYBACK) PICTURE (RECORDING) SOUND FEATURES EASE OF USE VALUE
%%%%% %%%%% %%%%% %%%%% %%%%% %%%%%

OVERALL VERDICT

What a shame there is no RGB Scart input, and the messy editing also lets the side down

CONCLUSION

This is a very good machine, with some excellent features and impressive connectivity. It does not match the Panasonic for pure picture quality, with the absence of an RGB input being the main problem, and its editing functions are not as effective. The lower price compared to Panasonics model may help to compensate for these shortcomings
Theres a huge amount of detail on recordings made in the highest-quality XP mode
Yet another JVC recorder that lacks RGB input
November 2004 I WHAT VIDEO AND WIDESCREEN TV 67