ON TEST / HDD/DVD RECORDER

Verdict Approx price 400

Sony RDR-HXD860
Combi deck with HDMI and auto series recording via Freeview
BDigital TV, HDMI output, Series Recording feature, picture ESingle Freeview tuner, inflexible with some disc formats
THERE HAS OFTEN been a tradeoff in features for the price when it comes to recording digital TV. You can opt for subscription-based recorders such as Sky+ or TV Drive with sophisticated features but ongoing costs. However, Sonys RDR-HXD860 is one of the rst recorders to embrace Freeviews next phase by adopting the Series Recording feature. This combined hard-drive/DVD recorder is smart looking too and provides the regular functions youd expect in a digital recorder, such as simultaneous playback and recording. DVD and handy for DV camcorder users (connected via an i.Link port). For TV recording, there is a builtin Freeview tuner and onscreen programme guide. Bear in mind that there is only one tuner, so you cant watch or record another channel while recording another. It also lacks an analogue tuner, so make sure your reception is strong for all digital channels. The video output has been improved with the addition of an HDMI port and upscaling to HDTVlike resolutions of 720p or /// 1080i. There are also analogue video Scarts for RGB or S-video in and out, as well as component video at up to 625p. This model can record directly to DVD or transfer from its hard drive, where you can edit before archiving to disc. It works best with DVD-R and DVD-RW, though it will accept DVD+R and +RW with some restrictions. It also takes double layered DVD+R but not DVD-R DL, and while it plays DVD-RAM discs, it wont write on them. Lastly, DiVX and XviD compressed video playback has been added, but not with anamorphic 16:9 support.

Ease of use

Overall, this is a simple machine to get on with. The remote control is arranged clearly but some operations are sluggish, especially when navigating the recording library or formatting DVD+RWs. The Freeview guide is fast and easy, offering plenty of shortcuts for jumping to other channels or days. The recorders best aspect is the new Series Recording feature, which is Freeviews version of Series Link on Sky+, meaning that all episodes

The rivals

/ Panasonic DMR-EX85
A superb allrounder that records Freeview, has a 250GB hard drive and upscales via HDMI output. Great value. Best Buy in Issue 311
All episodes of a series can be automatically recorded, even if they arent in xed time slots//
of a series can be automatically recorded, even if they arent in xed time slots. It can even capture split events such as lms divided by news bulletins. The series info option is also good for detailing any imminent repeats in case of schedule clashes. It is only running on BBC channels right now, but Series Recording will no doubt spread to other channels soon.

Features

The RDR-HXD860 offers hard-drive capacity of 160GB, allowing between 20 and a whopping 249 hours of storage across nine pre-set recording quality modes, though its best to stick to the higher quality modes, meaning about 77 hours at most. The top HQ+ option records at 15Mbps, which is better than

/ Pioneer DVR-545HX

Offers a Freeview tuner, multiformat support and exible editing and copying. Best Buy in Issue 315
064 / What Video & High-Denition TV / Issue 317

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Want to check on competition? See the Buyers Guide on p114

Fact le

/ 160GB hard drive / 249 hours max record time / Dual format DVD recording / Upscaling to 1080i / Simultaneous play and record
/ Time in Lab: Two weeks / Serial No: 4516872 430mm 73mm
There are plenty of no-nonsense editing functions for tidying up hard-drive (or rewritable DVD) recordings, including partial erase, dividing and playlist compilation. Unlike Pioneers recorders, you cannot edit or dub recordings while making a new one and there are other confusing limitations. For example, high-speed dubbing is not available to DVD+R/RW from a 16:9 widescreen recording, or recordings made in EP or SLP settings. Anamorphic widescreen programmes recorded directly to DVD+R/RW are ne, but if dubbed from hard disk to DVD+R/RW they are converted into inferior 4:3 mode that adds letterbox stripes. In contrast, DVD-R/RW discs seem unaffected across various recording and dubbing modes.

recordings remain much the same and clean overall. The ESP mode (93 hours on hard drive or 3 hours on standard DVD) is still bright and colourful when needed, but edges are less sharp and fast movement shows some break-up. As you move down to the LP, EP and SLP settings, the image gets less distinct again, along with more break-up. For putting longer programmes at better qualities onto disc, you can almost double DVD capacity with DVD+R DL, but with limits on 16:9 recording as explained earlier.
Playback Test Reading Rating Video jitter: 4ns Audio jitter: 203.3ps S/n ratio: 68.2dB Chroma am: -75.0dB Chroma pm: -61.2dB Chroma -64.7dB Crosstalk: Frequency response at 5.8MHz S-video: -2.6dB Composite: -2.2dB Component: -2.0dB
Recording Test Reading Chroma am: -71.9dB Chroma pm: -60.8dB Frequency response HQ @ 4MHz -0.6dB SP @ 4MHz -0.6dB LP @ 4MHz -0.6dB EP @ 2MHz -3.3dB

Rating

Lab notes: Commendably strong results in the top ve recording modes

Spec check

Hard disk capacity: 160GB Recording modes: 9 presets Max recording time: 249hr (HDD), 8hr (DVD), 14hr (DVD+R DL) Non-linear editing: Yes TV tuner: 1 digital terrestrial Timer: 40-event/one month GuidePlus/VideoPlus: Freeview EPG only/No Set-top box control: Synchro slave record only 7-day EPG: Yes Favourites list: Yes Pay TV compatible: No Dimensions: 430(w) x 73(h) x 328(d)mm Weight: 4.4kg Disc playback: DVD; CD; VCD; SVCD; CD-R/RW; DiVX; XviD; MP3; JPEG; DVD-R/DL/-RW (VR/ video mode)/-RAM/+R/+R DL Disc recording: DVD-R/RW (VR/ video mode); +R/+R DL/+RW / Other features: Series Recording; 15Mbps HQ+ HDD recording ; playlist editing on HDD/DVD-RW (VR); AV sync adjust; digital NR & playback EQ; digital text; synchro TV recording / Sockets: Front: i.Link DV in; composite & S-video in; stereo in. Rear: HDMI out; RF aerial in/out; 2 Scart (RGB/S-video/composite video in/ out); component; composite & S-video out; stereo out; electrical digital audio out / Contact: www.sony.co.uk

Sound

The RDR-HXD860s audio performance is above average for a machine whose primary task is to be a multipurpose recorder and player. Surround effects are conveyed clearly and vocals are rarely dull, though they can be somewhat harsh, and the machines overall sound is not in the same league as standalone mid-range DVD players. CD playback, too, is adequate and will sound okay for a range of discs, from the meaty Muse to mellow Midlake, for example, but it lacks renement. Although it boasts videophile picture quality, audiophiles should keep their favourite disc player on hand.

Picture

The HDMI digital output certainly takes picture quality to another level. Scaled up to 1080i mode, detail is vivid without appearing articial. Its not up to HDTV or Blu-ray levels, but it delivers an exceptional performance from pre-recorded DVD as well as giving Freeview a boost. Colours are vibrant too especially in a slick and shiny CGI animation such as Pixars Cars and in non-digital movies it keeps grain and other image noise under control. Contrast remains punchy, subtle shades are smooth with very few contouring side effects and motion is beautifully smooth. For its own recordings, the image is particularly strong in the top ve modes (HQ+, HQ, HSP, SP and LSP). If the original Freeview broadcast is acceptable, then the

Value

For 400 the picture and build quality are enough to recommend it. You can get some better features in other recorders, though. However, its admirable that Sony has put Series Recording into its range already, leaving many comparable brands behind. For picture quality its near-perfect, but the product does have niggling drawbacks Z
One of the rst HD/DVD combis to include next-generation Freeview recording, but has some quirks
Issue 317 / What Video & High-Denition TV / 065

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2-886-042-11(1)

DVD Recorder

Operating Instructions

To find out useful hints, tips and information about Sony products and services please visit: www.sony-europe.com/myproduct

RDR-HXD860

2006 Sony Corporation
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master page=left specdef 20060621

WARNING

To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only. The mains lead must be changed only at a qualified service shop.
This appliance is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER product. The CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT MARKING is located on the laser protective housing inside the enclosure.
Notice for customers in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland A molded plug complying with BS1363 is fitted to this equipment for your safety and convenience. Should the fuse in the plug supplied need to be replaced, a 5 AMP fuse approved by ASTA or BSI to BS1362, (i.e., marked with or mark) must be used. If the plug supplied with this equipment has a detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach the fuse cover after you change the fuse. Never use the plug without the fuse cover. If you should lose the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony service station.
Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment (Applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems)
This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product shall not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources. For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local Civic Office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

Precautions

This unit operates on V AC, 50/60 Hz. Check that the units operating voltage is identical with your local power supply. To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus. Install this system so that the mains lead can be unplugged from the wall socket immediately in the event of trouble.

CAUTION

The use of optical instruments with this product will increase eye hazard. As the laser beam used in this DVD recorder is harmful to eyes, do not attempt to disassemble the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.
This label is located on the laser protective housing inside the enclosure.
RDR-HXD860 2-886-042-11(1)

Step 3: Connecting the Audio Cords
Select one of the following patterns, A or B, according to the input jack on your TV monitor, projector, or AV amplifier (receiver). This will enable you to listen to sound.
[Speakers] Rear (L) Front (L) Centre AV amplifier (receiver) with a decoder [Speakers] Rear (R) Front (R) Subwoofer to coaxial/HDMI digital input or HDMI cord (not supplied) Coaxial digital cord (not supplied)

to DIGITAL OUT (COAXIAL)

to HDMI OUT to LINE 2 OUT (R-AUDIO-L)
Audio/video cord (not supplied) (white) (yellow)

(white)

AUDIO R

(yellow)*

(red) TV, projector, or AV amplifier (receiver)
: Signal flow * The yellow plug is used for video signals (page 13).
A Digital audio input jack
If your AV amplifier (receiver) has a Dolby*1 Digital, DTS*2, or MPEG audio decoder and a digital input jack, use this connection. You can enjoy Dolby Digital (5.1ch), DTS (5.1ch), and MPEG audio (5.1ch) surround effects.
B Audio L/R (left/right) input jacks
This connection will use your TVs or stereo amplifiers (receivers) two speakers for sound.
z Hint For correct speaker location, see the operating instructions supplied with the connected components.
Step 4: Connecting the Mains Lead
Connect the supplied mains lead to the AC IN terminal of the recorder. Then plug the recorder and TV mains leads (power cords) into the mains. After you connect the mains lead, you must wait for a short while before operating the recorder. You can operate the recorder once the front panel display lights up and the recorder enters standby mode. If you connect additional equipment to this recorder (page 22), be sure to connect the mains lead after all connections are complete.
Do not connect your TVs audio output jacks to the LINE IN (R-AUDIO-L) jacks at the same time. This will cause unwanted noise to come from your TVs speakers. With connection B, do not connect the LINE IN (R-AUDIO-L) and LINE 2 OUT (R-AUDIO-L) jacks to your TVs audio output jacks at the same time. This will cause unwanted noise to come from your TVs speakers. With connection A, after you have completed the connection, make the appropriate settings under Easy Setup - Audio Connection (page 21). Otherwise, no sound or a loud noise will come from your speakers. When you connect the recorder to an AV amplifier (receiver) using an HDMI cord, you will need to do one of the following: Connect the AV amplifier (receiver) to the TV with the HDMI cord. Connect the recorder to the TV with a video cord other than HDMI cord (component video cord, S VIDEO cord, or audio/video cord).

Manufacturer Sony Grundig Hitachi ITT/Nokia JVC Loewe Nokia Panasonic Philips Saba Samsung Sanyo Sharp Telefunken Thomson Toshiba Code number 01 (default) 15, 45 69, 73 17, 49 06, 07, 08, 72 12, 13, 74 22, 23, 43, 75 38
To operate the TV/DVD button (for SCART connections only)
The TV/DVD button switches between the recorder and the last input source selected on the TV. Point your remote at the recorder when using this button. When you connect the recorder to the TV via the SCART jacks, the input source for the TV is set to the recorder automatically when you start playback. To watch another source, press the TV/DVD button to switch the TVs input source.
If you have a Sony DVD player or more than one Sony DVD recorder
If the supplied remote interferes with your other Sony DVD recorder or player, set the command mode number for this recorder and the supplied remote to one that differs from the other Sony DVD recorder or player after you have completed Step 6: Easy Setup. The default command mode setting for this recorder and the supplied remote is DVD3.
The remote performs the following:
Buttons TV [/1 TV 2 (volume) +/ TV PROG +/ Operations Turns your TV on or off Adjusts the volume of your TV Selects the programme position on your TV Switches your TVs input source

SYSTEM MENU M/m, ENTER

Check that Easy Setup (page 21) has been finished. If Easy Setup has not been finished, first perform Easy Setup. Press SYSTEM MENU.

The System Menu appears.

Select SETUP, and press ENTER.
To check the Command Mode for the recorder
Press x on the recorder when the recorder is turned off. The Command Mode for the recorder appears in the front panel display. If the Command Mode for the recorder has not been changed, set the Command Mode for the remote to the default setting of DVD3. If the Command Mode for the remote is changed to DVD1 or DVD2, you will be unable to operate this recorder.
Select Others, and press ENTER.
Changing programme positions of the recorder using the remote
You can change programme positions of the recorder using the number buttons.
Select Command Mode, and press ENTER.
Select a Command Mode (DVD1, DVD2, or DVD3), and press ENTER. Set the Command Mode for the remote so it matches the Command Mode for the recorder you set above.
Follow the steps below to set the Command Mode on the remote. 1 Hold down ENTER. 2 While holding down ENTER, enter the Command Mode code number using the number buttons.
Command Mode Code number DVD1 DVD2 DVD3 number button 1 number button 2 number button 3
Example: for channel 50 Press 5, 0, then press ENTER.

Satellite tuner, CanalSat, etc.
If the satellite tuner can output RGB signals
This recorder accepts RGB signals. If the satellite tuner can output RGB signals, connect the TV SCART connector on the satellite tuner to the LINE 3 jack, and set Line3 Input of Scart Setting to Video/ RGB in the Video setup (page 96). Note that this connection and setup disable the SMARTLINK function. If you want to use the SMARTLINK function with a compatible set top box, see the instructions supplied with the set top box.
If you want to use the Synchro Rec function
This connection is necessary to use the Synchro-Recording function. See Recording from connected equipment with a timer (Synchro Rec) on page 57. Set Line3 Input of Scart Setting in the Video setup (page 96) according to the specifications of your satellite tuner. See your satellite tuners instructions for more information. If you are using a Sky, be sure to connect the tuners VCR SCART jack to the LINE 3 jack. Then set Line3 Input of Scart Setting according to the specifications of the VCR SCART jack on your satellite tuner.
Synchro-Recording does not work with some tuners. For details, see the tuners operating instructions. If you disconnect the recorders mains lead, you will not be able to view the signals from the connected tuner.
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Eight Basic Operations

Getting to Know Your DVD Recorder

1. Inserting a Disc

+RW -RVideo -RWVR -RWVideo +R -RVR

2. Recording a Programme

-RVR +RW -RVideo -RWVR -RWVideo +R

Z (open/ close)

This section introduces the basic operation to record a current TV programme to the hard disk (HDD) or to a disc (DVD). For an explanation of how to make timer recordings, see page 45.

DVD HDD DVD PROG +/

DISPLAY
Press DVD. Press Z (open/close), and place a disc on the disc tray.
z REC Recording/playing side facing down x REC STOP TV/DVD

REC MODE TV t

Press Z (open/close) to close the disc tray.
Wait until LOAD disappears from the front panel display. Unused DVDs are formatted automatically. For DVD-RW discs DVD-RWs are formatted in the recording format (VR mode or Video mode) set by Format DVD-RW in the DVD setup. For DVD-R discs DVD-Rs are automatically formatted in Video mode. To format an unused DVD-R in VR mode, format the disc using the Disc Information display (page 36) before you make a recording. If the disc is recordable on this recorder, you can manually re-format the disc to make a blank disc (page 36).

B Disc space (remainder/total)
C Title information: Press HDD or DVD.
If you select DVD, insert a DVD (see 1. Inserting a Disc on page 25). Playback starts automatically depending on the disc. Displays the title number, title name, and recording date. Title size is shown in the Thumbnail title list. z (red): Indicates that the title is currently being recorded. : Indicates that the title is currently being dubbed. : Indicates the protected title. NEW: Indicates that the title is newly recorded (not played back) (HDD only). : Indicates titles containing CopyOnce copy protection signals (HDD only) (page 80).

Press TITLE LIST.

To show the extended Title List, press OPTIONS to select Display List, and press ENTER.

D Scroll bar:

Appears when all of the titles do not fit on the list. To view the hidden titles, press M/m.
E Titles thumbnail picture:
The still images for each title are displayed.
Select a title, and press ENTER.
The sub-menu appears. The sub-menu displays options applicable only to the selected item. The displayed options differ depending upon the model, situation, and disc type.
To change the title order (Sort)
While the Title List menu is turned on, press OPTIONS to select Sort Titles. Press M/m to select the item, and press ENTER.
Order By Date Sorted In order of when the titles were recorded. The title that is recorded most recently is listed at the top. In alphabetical order. In order of recorded title number. In order of when the titles were recorded. The title that is recorded most recently and has not been played is listed at the top. Playlist titles are not displayed.
By Title By Number Unseen Title (HDD only)

Sub-menu

Select Play, and press ENTER.
Playback starts from the selected title.

To stop playback

Press x (stop).
To change a title thumbnail picture (Thumbnail) (HDD/DVD-RW/DVD-R in VR mode only)
You can select a favourite scene for the thumbnail picture shown in the Title List menu.
To scroll the list display by page (Page mode)
Press / while the list display is turned on. Each time you press / , the entire Title List changes to the next/previous page of titles.
Press TITLE LIST. Press </, to switch the Title Lists, if necessary. Select a title, and press ENTER. The sub-menu appears. Select Set Thumbnail, and press ENTER. The display for setting the thumbnail point appears and the title starts to play. While watching the playback picture, press m/M to select the scene you want to set for a thumbnail picture, and press ENTER. Playback pauses. Press ENTER if the scene is correct. If the scene is incorrect, press c/C to select the scene you want to set for a thumbnail picture, and press ENTER. The display asks for confirmation. To change the thumbnail, press M. Select OK, and press ENTER. The scene is set for the titles thumbnail picture.

The Index application is an easy way to display a scrollable list of all the tuned channels, including your favourites channel lists, and allows one of these to be selected.
Press M/m to select the desired channel, then press ENTER to exit the index menu and view the selected channel.
To scroll the Index display by page (Page mode)
Press PAGE / while the Index display is turned on to change to the previous/next page.

M/m, ENTER PAGE /

While in normal operation mode, press ENTER.
The Index display for the last display you viewed appears. For instance, if the last display you viewed was the Favourites List, then the Favourites List appears.
Press to switch between the Programme List. Press TV/RADIO to display either the TV or the Radio channels at any time.
The Radio mode is indicated by the presence of a Radio icon in the Index panel.
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Timer Recording

Press REC MODE repeatedly to switch the recording modes.
To select the HQ+ mode, set HQ Setting of the HDD Rec. Settings to HQ+ in the Recording setup (page 100). HQ+ records pictures in higher quality than HQ on the HDD. Note that HQ+ appears as HQ in the front panel display and the on-screen displays.
Recording mode HQ+ (High quality) HQ R R Approx. recording time (hours) Timer Recording HDD DVD* hr. 30 min. hr. 30 min. 6 8

Before Recording

Before you start recording
Check that the disc has enough available space for the recording (page 31). For the HDD, DVD+RWs, and DVD-RWs, you can free up disc space by erasing titles (page 71). Adjust the recording picture quality and picture size if necessary (page 52).
z Hint Timer recordings will be made regardless whether or not the recorder is turned on. You can turn off the recorder without affecting the recording even after recording starts.
SP (Standard mode) LSP ESP LP EP r r r r
To play a recorded disc on other DVD equipment, finalise the disc (page 34). If digital teletext is operated while recording, its contents will be recorded on the disc. If the subtitles are displayed while recording, they will be recorded on the disc.

SLP (Long duration) 249

Recording mode
Like the standard 3 recording modes of video tapes, you can select the desired recording mode using the REC MODE button. Recording modes with higher quality provide a more beautiful recording, but the large data volume also results in a shorter recording time. Conversely, a longer duration provides a longer recording time, but the lower data volume results in a coarser picture quality.

Select a programme using </M/m/ , or the number buttons.
To know more about the navigation options in the EPG application, see page 38.
To scroll the EPG display by page (Page mode)
Press PAGE / while the EPG display is turned on to display the previous/next ten channels.
Recording programmes using Series Recording
Series Recording is a feature which uses information from the Electronic Programme Guide to provide the following features: Automatically record programmes in a series. Record the subsequent parts of events which are split. Provide links to recommended programmes.

See page 47.

To extend the recording duration time while recording (Guide Timer Extend)

See page 48.

This function cannot be used when the broadcaster does not include series information with the programme data. Whether or not a programme is in a series is determined by the broadcaster.
To confirm, change, or cancel timer recording
See Checking/Changing/Cancelling Timer Settings (page 54).
z Hint The Rec Mode Adjust function also works with this timer method (page 47).
This recorder is featured with an EPG timer auto extend functionality that allows EPG timer recordings to be made in case of an early start (before the scheduled start time) or late finish (after the scheduled end time). The EPG programme start and end time are determined by the broadcaster.
Select a programme containing series information using </M/m/, or the number buttons.
The Series Info appears under the blue bar at the bottom of the EPG screen when the programme contains series information.

Select Series Timer.

The selected programme is set for recording and appears in the Timer List (page 55). The other programmes in the series will be set for recording (appear in the Timer List) as each previous recording is completed. For example, if there are three programmes in a series, the second programme will be set for recording only after the first recording is finished. The third programme will be set for recording only after the second recording is finished.
Press the blue button (Series Info).
The Series Information display appears. Press the red button to display the Programme Guide and see more information about the selected programme. Press O RETURN to return.
Confirming Series Recording settings
After you have set a programme for Series Recording, the following icons appear in the Series Information display. (Series): Indicates that the programme is a candidate for Series Recording recording. (repeat): Indicates a repeat programme. (Recommended): The event is recommended by broadcaster as a link for current series. Note that recommended programmes will not be automatically set for recording with Series Recording. (Link): Indicates that the series has been set for Series Recording.

If you set Repeat Rec. to any option other than Off in step 3, your EPG timer recording will be converted into a standard timer recording. The timer event icon disappears from the EPG display.
Select the timer setting you want to check/change/cancel, and press ENTER.

The sub-menu appears.

Checking/changing/cancelling using the Timer List
Select one of the options, and press ENTER.
Modify: Changes the timer setting. Select an item using </, and adjust using M/m. Select OK and press ENTER.
Select TIMER LIST, and press ENTER.

The Timer List appears.

Erase: Erases the timer setting. Select OK and press ENTER. Timer information displays the recording date, time, recording mode, etc. : Indicates that the setting is overlapped by another setting. z (red): Indicates the setting currently being recorded. : Indicates that the timer recording cannot be recorded as set, such as for a timer recording that cannot be recorded in the selected recording mode. : Indicates the setting is being recorded to the HDD. : Indicates the setting is being recorded to a DVD. : Indicates the setting that the Update function is set for. When all of the timer settings do not fit on the list, the scroll bar appears. To view the hidden timer settings, press M/m.
Check Overlap: Checks for overlapped settings.
Select Close to return to the Timer List.
Info: Displays the timer setting information box along with the disc space required to record the whole programme (according to the selected recording mode).
Press / while the list display is turned on. Each time you press / , the entire Timer List changes to the next/previous page of timer settings.
To turn off the Timer List
z Hint For manual timer settings, you cannot modify the timer setting for the current recording, but you can extend the duration of the recording time while recording (page 48). For timer settings using the EPG, you can modify the timer setting for the current recording while recording, but you cannot extend the duration of the recording (even when recording is stopped).
Press O RETURN to return to the Timer List. To change or cancel the setting, repeat steps 3 and 4 above.
Even if the timer is set, timer recordings cannot be made while recording a programme that has priority. Even if the timer is set for the same daily or weekly programme, the timer recording cannot be made if it overlaps with a programme that has priority. will appear next to the overlapped setting in the Timer List. Check the priority order of the settings.

Original

To erase chapter marks
You can combine two chapters by erasing the chapter mark during playback. Press./> to search for a chapter number, and while displaying the chapter containing the chapter mark you want to erase, press CHAPTER MARK ERASE. The current chapter combines with the previous chapter.
When dubbing, any chapter marks you enter will be erased.

Playlist

In this case, you can compile highlight scenes as a Playlist title. You can even rearrange the scene order within the Playlist title. The Playlist title calls up data from the original titles for playback. When an original title is used for a Playlist title, the original title cannot be edited and erased.
Playlist titles containing titles recorded with the Copy-Once copy protection signal cannot be dubbed or moved (page 80).
If the Title List (Original) appears, press <.
Press ENTER if the OUT point is correct.
If the OUT point is incorrect, select the OUT point using c/C, and press ENTER. The selected scene is added to the scene list. To add more scenes, go to step 5.
Press OPTIONS to select Create a Playlist, and press ENTER.
When you finish adding scenes, press m.
Select Select, and press ENTER.
A Total duration of the selected scene
Select the title you want to include in the Playlist title, and press ENTER.
The display for setting the start point (IN) appears. The title starts to play. To return to the beginning of the title, press X and then press.
B Total number of scenes C Selected scene
10 Select the scene you want to re-edit,

and press ENTER.

The sub-menu appears. Move: Changes the scene order using </, and press ENTER. Erase: Erases the scene. When asked for confirmation, select OK. To add more scenes, press M and go to step 5. To add more scenes from another title, select Select and go to step 4. To preview all of the captured scenes in the listed order, select Preview.
Select the IN point using m/M, and press ENTER.
11 When you finish editing the scene list,
select OK, and press ENTER.
The title of the created Playlist is added to the Title List (Playlist). The title name is the title name of the first scene.
Press ENTER if the IN point is correct.
If the IN point is incorrect, select the IN point using c/C, and press ENTER. The display for setting the end point (OUT) appears.
Select the OUT point using m/M, and press ENTER.
z Hint When a Playlist title is created, the IN and OUT points will become chapter marks, and each scene will become a chapter.
The picture may pause when the edited scene is played.
Select a new location for the title using M/m, and press ENTER.
The title moves to the new location. To move more titles, go to step 3. To finish, select Quit, and press ENTER.

To add the entire title to the Playlist title as one scene (Make a Playlist)
Press TITLE LIST. If the Title List (Playlist) appears, press ,. Select the title and press ENTER. The sub-menu appears. Select Make a Playlist, and press ENTER. The selected title is added to the Title List (Playlist). The title name is the same as the Original title name.
Combining multiple Playlist titles (Combine)
If the Title List (Original) menu appears, press <.
To play the Playlist title
Press OPTIONS to select Combine, and press ENTER.
The display for selecting titles appears.
Press TITLE LIST. If the Title List (Original) appears, press <. Select a title, and press ENTER. The sub-menu appears. Select Play, and press ENTER.
A number indicating the order in which you selected the title appears. To cancel the selection, press ENTER again.
Moving a Playlist title (Change Order)
You can change the Playlist title order within the Title List (Playlist).
Repeat step 3 to select all of the titles you want to combine.
To cancel all of the selections, select Reset.
Press OPTIONS to select Change Order, and press ENTER.
The list of titles to be combined appears. To change the selection, select Change and go to step 3.
Select the title you want to move, and press ENTER.

The titles are combined.

z Hint After titles are combined, the title name is the title name of the first title prior to combination.
When the number of chapters in the title to be combined exceeds the limit, the chapters at the end are combined into a single chapter.
Dividing a Playlist title (Divide)
You can divide a Playlist title. For operations, see page 73.
Erasing and Editing RDR-HXD860 2-886-042-11(1)
C:\2886042111HXD860CEK\01GBHXD860CEK\100DUB.fm
b Notes Dubbing (HDD y DVD)
You cannot make a recording while dubbing. To play a dubbed disc on other DVD equipment, finalise the disc (page 34). You cannot dub from DVD VIDEOs to the HDD. Thumbnails that you have set for the originally recorded title (page 28) will not be retained in the dubbed title. When dubbing to a DVD+R DL disc, the video may be momentarily interrupted at the point where the layers switch.

Before Dubbing

In this section, dubbing refers to copying a recorded title on the internal hard disk drive (HDD) to another disc, or vice versa. You can select to dub one title at a time (Title Dubbing see Dubbing a single title (Title Dubbing) on page 81), or multiple titles all at once (Multiple Title Dubbing see Dubbing multiple titles (Dub Selected Titles) on page 82). Before you start, read the following precautions, which are common to both dubbing methods. If you want to record from a digital video camera connected to the DV IN jack, see DV Dubbing on page 84. To record from equipment connected to the LINE IN jacks, see Recording from connected equipment without a timer on page 58.

About Dub Mode

With this recorder, the recording mode for dubbing is displayed as Dub Mode. Three dubbing methods are available: High-speed Dubbing, Original Dubbing, and Rec Mode Conversion Dubbing. Read the following and select according to the required time, disc space, and picture quality.
Dubbing at high-speed (High-speed Dubbing) HDD , +RW / -RWVR / -RWVideo / / -RVR / -RVideo +R
Allows you to dub what you have stored in the HDD to a high-speed DVD (8x-speed DVD+RWs/6x-speed DVD-RWs/16x-speed DVD+Rs/16x-speed DVD-Rs, or slower versions of each disc type), without changing the recording mode. Set Dub Mode to Fast in the steps of Dubbing a single title (Title Dubbing) (page 81) or Dubbing multiple titles (Dub Selected Titles) (page 82). When dubbing multiple titles, you can select Fast if there are one or more titles that can be dubbed at high speed in the selected titles. However, titles that cannot be dubbed at high speed are dubbed in the Original Dubbing mode. The minimum required time is as follows (approximate).

Before you start

You cannot record both the main and sub sound on DVD+RWs, DVD-RWs (Video mode), DVD+Rs, or DVD-Rs (Video mode). For bilingual programmes, set Bilingual Recording of DVD Rec. Settings to either Main (default) or Sub in the Recording setup (page 100). The chapter marks in the dubbing source are not retained in the dubbed title. When Auto Chapter is set to On in the Recording setup (page 101), chapter marks are automatically inserted at approximately 6 minute intervals.
z Hints When you dub a Playlist title, it is recorded as an Original title. When dubbed from a DVD to the HDD, the picture size and the sound types originally recorded are retained.
Required times for High-speed Dubbing from HDD to DVD (for 60-minute programme)*1
Speed*2 6x HighRec. speed mode DVDRW HQ HSP 6x Highspeed DVD+ RW 8x 8x 2.4x
High- High- DVD+R speed speed (Double DVD-R DVD+R Layer)
Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. 10 min. 10 min. 8 min. 8 min. 25 min. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. 6 min. 6 min. 5 min. 5 min. 16 min. 40 sec. 40 sec. 40 sec. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. 5 min. 5 min. 3 min. 3 min. 12 min. 45 sec. 45 sec. 30 sec. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. 4 min. 4 min. 3 min. 3 min. 10 min. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. 3 min. 3 min. 2 min. 2 min. 8 min. 20 sec. 20 sec. 30 sec. 30 sec. 20 sec. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. 2 min. 2 min. 2 min. 2 min. 6 min. 30 sec. 30 sec. 15 sec. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. 1 min. min. 40 sec. min.*sec. min.*3 min.*3 Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx. 1 min. sec. 15 sec. min.*3 min.*3 min.*3

, Multilingual tracks are not recorded on the DVD being played. , The DVD VIDEO prohibits the changing of the language for the sound track. , Try changing the language using the DVD VIDEOs menu.
The JPEG image files do not play.
, The JPEG image files are not recorded in a format that the recorder can play (page 66). , Progressive JPEG images cannot be played.

TV Pause does not work.

, You are recording to the HDD or the HDD is full.
Recording/Timer recording/ Editing
The programme position cannot be changed from the programme position you are recording.
, Set the TVs input source to TV.
Timer recording is not complete or did not start from the beginning.
, There was a power failure during recording. If the power recovers when there is a timer recording, the recorder resumes recording. Should the power failure continue for more than 1 hour, reset the clock (page 89). , Other timer setting overlapped the timer setting (page 56). , Disc space was not enough.
Recording does not start immediately after you press z REC.
, Operate the recorder only after LOAD, FORMAT, or INFOWRITE disappears from the front panel display.
Contents previously recorded were erased.
, Data that is not playable on this recorder but was recorded on a DVD with a PC will be erased from the disc when the disc is inserted. , Auto Title Erase of the Timer Settings in the Recording setup is set to On (page 100).
Nothing was recorded even though you set the timer setting correctly.
, There was a power failure during recording. , The recorders internal clock stopped due to a power failure that lasted for more than 1 hour. Reset the clock (page 89). , Disconnect the mains lead from the mains, and connect it again. , The programme contains copy protection signals that restrict copying. , Other timer setting overlapped the timer setting (page 56). , There is no DVD inside the recorder. , There is not enough disc space for the recording. , The recorder was in the process of dubbing (HDDyDVD). , The recorder was in the process of DV Dubbing. , A scrambled channel is selected. , The Channel activated Parental Lock is selected (page 90).
Recording from the equipment with a timer
Nothing was recorded even though you set the Synchro-Rec setting correctly.
, You forgot to turn off the connected equipment. Turn off the connected equipment and set the recorder to SynchroRec standby mode (page 57). , The recorder was not set to the SynchroRecording standby mode. Press c z SYNCHRO REC to have the recorder stand by for recording. Make sure the SYNCHRO REC indicator lights up on the front panel (page 57). , The equipment is not connected to the LINE 3 jack of the recorder. , The recorder is connected to the TV output jack of the connected equipment. Additional Information
Recording does not stop immediately after you press x REC STOP.

* What is Mbps? Mbps stands for megabits per second, or the amount of data that can be sent or received in one second. For example, a baud rate of 100 Mbps means that 100 megabits of data can be sent in one second.
i.LINK functions on this recorder
For details on how to dub when this recorder is connected to other video equipment having DV jacks, see page 84. The DV jack on this recorder can only input DVC-SD signals. It cannot output signals. The DV jack will not accept MICRO MV signals from equipment such as a MICRO MV digital video camera with an i.LINK jack. For further precautions, see the notes on page 84. For details on precautions when connecting this recorder, also see the instruction manuals for the equipment to be connected.

Required i.LINK cable

Use the Sony i.LINK 4-pin-to-4-pin cable (during DV dubbing). i.LINK and are trademarks.
Guide to Parts and Controls
For more information, see the pages in parentheses.

Remote

L DISPLAY button (29) TIME/TEXT button (29) M Coloured multimedia applications & interactive services control buttons (38) CHAPTER MARK button (74) CHAPTER MARK ERASE button (74) N SYSTEM MENU button (87, 89) TITLE LIST button (27, 59, 71) GUIDE (Electronic Programme Guide) button (38, 49) O P INFO button (40) Favourite button (42, 43)
Q O RETURN button (54) R </M/m/,/ENTER button (21) S PAGE/ALBUM 66) / buttons (27,
T OPTIONS button (36) U./> (previous/next) buttons (61) V mc / CM (search/slow/ freeze frame) buttons (61) W [TIMER] button (46) A HDD button (25) DVD button (25) B [/1 (on/standby) button (21) C Z (open/close) button (25) D PROG (programme) +/ buttons (25) The + button has a tactile dot*. E Number buttons (49, 65) The number 5 button has a tactile dot*. F INPUT SELECT button (58, 84) G AUDIO button (61)
The AUDIO button has a tactile dot*.
X H (play) button (59) X (pause) button (61) x (stop) button (59)
The H button has a tactile dot*.
Y TV/RADIO button (42) Z z REC button (25) x REC STOP button (25) c z SYNCHRO REC button (57) REC MODE button (25) wj TV 2 (volume) +/ buttons (18) wk TV [/1 (on/standby) button (18) wl TV/DVD button (18) e; TV t button (18) ea TV PROG (programme) +/ buttons (18) The + button has a tactile dot*.