DVD-SR270M DVD-SR275M

DVD Recorder

user manual

imagine the possibilities
Thanks you for purchasing this Samsung product. To receive a more complete service, please register your product at
www.samsung.com/global/register

Getting Started

Warning
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS ARE INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. IMPORTANT NOTE The mains lead on this equipment is supplied with a moulded plug incorporating a fuse. The value of the fuse is indicated on the pin face of the plug. If it requires replacing, a fuse approved to BS1362 of the same rating must be used. Never use the plug with the fuse cover omitted if the cover is detachable. If a replacement fuse cover is required, it must be of the same colour as the pin face of the plug. Replacement covers are available from your dealer. If the fitted plug is not suitable for the power points in your house or the cable is not long enough to reach a power point, you should obtain a suitable safety approved extension lead or consult your dealer for assistance. However, if there is no alternative to cutting off the plug, remove the fuse and then safely dispose of the plug. Do not connect the plug to a mains jack, as there is a risk of shock hazard from the bared flexible cord. To disconnect the apparatus from the mains, the plug must be pulled out from the mains socket, therefore the mains plug shall be readily operable. The product unit accompanying this user manual is licensed under certain intellectual property rights of certain third parties. This licence is limited to private noncommercial use by end-user consumers for licensed contents. No rights are granted for commercial use. The licence does not cover any product unit other than this product unit and the licence does not extend to any unlicensed product unit or process conforming to ISO/ IEC 11172-3 or ISO/IEC 13818-3 used or sold in combination with this product unit. The licence only covers the use of this product unit to encode and/or decode audio files conforming to the ISO/IEC 11172-3 or ISO/IEC 13818-3. No rights are granted under this licence for product features or functions that do not conform to the ISO/IEC 11172-3 or ISO/IEC 13818-3.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN
This symbol indicates dangerous voltage inside the product that presents a risk of electric shock or personal injury. This symbol indicates important instructions accompanying the product. Do not install this equipment in a confined space such as a bookcase or similar unit. WARNING : To prevent damage which may result in fire or electric shock hazard, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture. CAUTION : DVD Recorder USES AN INVISIBLE LASER BEAM WHICH CAN CAUSE HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE IF DIRECTED. BE SURE TO OPERATE DVD Recorder CORRECTLY AS INSTRUCTED. CAUTION THIS PRODUCT UTILIZES A LASER. USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE. DO NOT OPEN COVERS AND DO NOT REPAIR YOURSELF. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL. This product satisfies CE regulations when shielded cables and connectors are used to connect the unit to other equipment. To prevent electromagnetic interference with electric appliances, such as radios and televisions, use shielded cables and connectors for connections.

DVD-SR275M

Dubbing data from a digital camcorder using a DV input jack
Record DV Device video onto DVD-RAM, DVDRW or DVDR discs using the DV input jack (IEEE 13944pin/4pin). (See pages 56, 63) (DVD-SR275M only)
High quality progressive scan High quality digital audio and video recording and playback
You can record up to approximately 16-hours of video on a double side 9.4 GB DVD-RAM disc up to 15-hours on a dual-layer 8.5 GB DVDR disc up to 8-hours on a 4.7GB DVD-RAM/DVDRW/DVDR disc, depending on the recording mode. Progressive scanning provides high resolution and flicker free video. The 10-bit 108-MHz DAC and 2D Y/C Separating Circuitry provides the highest image playback and recording quality. (See page 35)

MPEG4 playback

This DVD Recorder can play MPEG4 formats and AVI files.
Creating a DVD video title using DVDRW/R disc
With the DVD Recorder, you can create your own DVD Video titles on 4.7 GB DVDRW/R or 8.5GB DVDR discs.

DivX Certification

DivX, DivX Certified, and associated logos are trademarks of DivX Networks, Inc and are used under licence. Official DivX Certified product Plays all versions of DivX video (including DivX 6) with standard playback of DivX media files
Selectable Recording Mode
You can set your DVD Recorder to one of eight different recording modes, each varying in recording quality and length. Select a recording mode according to the time and picture quality you need. For example, if picture quality is your top priority, select HQ (high quality). If recording time is your priority, SLP can be a possible choice. (Analogue mode only) DVB-T recording is possible only on AUTO mode. The Dual layer DVD-Rs have approximately double the capacity of single layer DVD-Rs.
HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface)
HDMI reduces picture noise by allowing a pure digital video/audio signal path from the DVD recorder to your TV. (DVD-SR275M only)
EZ Record Mode Automated Quality Adjustment for Timer Recording
If AUTO mode is selected, the video quality is adjusted automatically so that all video for the scheduled time can be recorded onto the free disc space. (See page 58) This function allows you initialise and Finalise a disc automatically. (See page 28)

Using a DVD-RAM/RW/+R

When an unused DVD-RAM/RW/+R disc is fi rst inserted, the message Unformatted Disc. Formatting. Please wait. will be displayed.

Using a DVD-R

It is not necessary to format a new DVD-R disc. When it is inserted, it will operate in Video mode. It can also be formatted in VR mode in the setup menu. You can change the disc mode only once when an unused DVD-R disc is inserted.
About the use of this users manual 1) Be sure to be familiar with Safety Instructions before using this product. (See pages 2~6) 2) If a problem occurs, check the Troubleshooting. (See pages 85~87) Copyright 2008 Samsung Electronics Co. All rights reserved; No part or whole of this users manual may be reproduced or copied without the prior written permission of Samsung Electronics Co.
M You can only use either the VR or Video mode on a
DVD-RW/-R, but not both at the same time.
You can format a DVD-RW/-R to V or VR mode
using Disc Setting. It should be noted that the discs data will be lost when changing formats.

English - 10

Step 3 : Recording
There are two different recording methods, Direct Recording and Timer Recording. Timer Recording is classified as follows: Recording mode : HQ (high quality mode), HSP, SP (standard quality mode), LSP, ESP, LP, EP, SLP (Long duration mode) according to the recording mode. When recording is set in the AUTO mode, the best quality picture is recorded with regards to the remaining time on the disc.
Step 6 : Finalising & Playing on other DVD components
To play your DVD on other DVD components, finalising may be necessary. First, finish all editing and recording operations, then finalise the disc. When using a DVD-RW/-R disc in VR Mode Although finalising is generally unnecessary when playing the disc on a VR Mode compatible component, a fi nalised disc should be used for playback. When using a DVD-RW/-R disc in Video Mode The disc should be finalised first to enable playback on anything other than this DVD Recorder. No more editing or recording can be made on the disc once it has been finalised. To enable recording on the disc again, the disc must be unfinalised. When using a DVD+R disc You should finalise the disc to play it on a component other than this DVD Recorder. No more editing or recording can be made on the disc once it has been finalised.

Press the input selector on your TV remote control until the Component signal from the DVD Recorder appears on your TV screen.
What is Progressive Scan?
Progressive scan has twice as many scanning lines as the interlace output method has. Progressive scanning method can provide better and clearer picture quality. component(s) before using the Progressive Scan feature.
You must connect the DVD Recorder to the

green white red blue red

Connecting HDMI/DVI to a TV (DVD-SR275M only)
If your TV has an HDMI/DVI input, connect HDMI/DVI cable to a TV. You will enjoy the best quality images and sounds.
Component cable (not supplied)
Case 1 : Connecting to a TV with HDMI Jack
1. Connect one end of the HDMI-HDMI cable into the HDMI OUT jack on the rear of the DVD Recorder. 2. Plug the other end of the HDMI-HDMI cable into the appropriate input connector on the television. 3. Press the input selector on your TV remote control until the HDMI signal from the DVD Recorder appears on your TV screen.

COMPONENT INPUT

red blue green

Progressive Scan

Your TV must support progressive scan input to allow to watch progressive scan component video out. (See page 35)
Make sure that the colour coded connections match. That is, the Y, PB and PR component output jacks of your DVD Recorder should be connected to the exact corresponding component input jacks on your TV. Otherwise, red or blue images will be displayed on the TV screen. Consumers should note that not all high definition television sets are fully compatible with this product and may cause artifacts to be displayed in the picture. In case of progressive scan picture problems, it is recommended that you switch the connection to the standard definition output. If there are questions regarding your Samsung TV sets compatibility with this DVD Recorder, please contact our customer service centre.
HDMI-HDMI Cable (not supplied)
Case 2 : Connecting to a TV with DVI Jack
1. Connect one end of the HDMI-DVI cable into the HDMI OUT jack on the rear of the DVD Recorder. 2. Plug the other end of the HDMI-DVI cable into the DVI IN jack on the television. 3. Using the audio cables, connect the AUDIO (red and white) OUT jacks on the rear of the DVD Recorder to the AUDIO (red and white) IN jacks of your TV. Turn on the DVD Recorder and TV.
M See your TV Users Manual to find out if your TV
supports Progressive Scan. If Progressive Scan is supported, follow the TV Users instructions regarding Progressive Scan settings in the TVs menu system. may differ from the illustration above.
Depending on your TV, the method of connection

English - 20

4. Press the input selector on your TV remote control until the DVI signal from the DVD Recorder appears on your TV screen.

English - 21

HDMI connection description

AV Receiver Connections

To take full advantage of the movie theatre experience that DVD offers, you may want to connect your DVD Recorder to a complete Surround Sound system, including an A/V Receiver and six Surround Sound speakers. If your A/V receiver is equipped with a Dolby Digital Decoder, you have the option to bypass the DVD Recorders built-in Dolby Digital Decoder. Use the Digital Audio Out connection below. To enjoy Dolby digital or DTS sound, you must set up the audio settings. (See page 37) 1. Connect a Digital Audio coaxial cables from the Digital Audio Out jacks on the rear panel of the DVD Recorder to their corresponding Digital Audio Input jacks on your A/V Receiver:
Manufactured under license under U.S. Patent #: 5,451,942 & other U.S. and worldwide patents issued & pending. DTS and DTS Digital Out are registered trademarks and the DTS logos and Symbol are trademarks of DTS, Inc. 1996-2007 DTS, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Connecting External Devices
Case1 : Connecting an external devices to the AV3 jacks
You can connect other audio/video equipment to your DVD Recorder using audio/video cables if the appropriate outputs are available on the equipment chosen.
1. Connect one end of the video cable into the VIDEO input jack on the front of the DVD Recorder. 2. Plug the other end of the video cable into the appropriate output connector on the other system (VCR, STB or Camcorder, etc). 3. Connect one end of the audio cable supplied into the AUDIO input jacks on the front of the DVD Recorder. Take care to respect the colour coding of the left and right channels. 4. Plug the other end of the audio cable into the appropriate output connectors on the other system (VCR,STB or Camcorder, etc).
Manufactured under licence from Dolby Laboratories. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
Rear(L) Front(L) Subwoofer Centre
Case 2 : Connecting a DV Device to the DV IN jack (DVD-SR275M only)

Rear(R) Front(R)

If your DV Device has a DV output jack, connect it to the DV input jack of your DVD Recorder. If your camcorder has a DV output jack, see page 57 or 63 for more information.
To Digital Audio Input of an A/V Receiver with a Dolby, MPEG2 or DTS Digital Decoder
M If the input is not selected automatically, use
INPUT SEL. button to select proper input.

English - 22

On-Screen Menu Navigation

Auto Scanning Country Channel type Scan Mode Start frequency End frequency
: United Kingdom : : Digital All
signal. - All : Receives signals including the scrambled signal.
: CH 21/474000kHz : CH 69/858000kHz

Cancel

Start frequency/End frequency
7. Press the button to select Start, then press OK button. Auto Scan will be started.

(Channel type : Digital)

M You can select RADIO mode by pressing the TV/RADIO button on
the remote control. This button used to toggle the TV and RADIO mode.

(Channel type : Analog)

English - 26

Digital Manual Setup

To tune-in new channels, the DVD Recorder has been provided with the option Manual Scan where the channel data can be entered by user. To setup, follow steps 1~3 on page 26. 4. Press the buttons to select Digital Manual Setup, then press OK button.
Manual Scanning Country Channel type Scan Mode Channel Number Frequency Bandwidth Signal status 0%

Start Cancel

: : : : : :
United Kingdom Digital All CH 5 178750kHz 8MHz
5. Select the Channel Number which you want to find using buttons. Select Frequency and input the Frequency of the channel you want to find by pressing the number button. Select Bandwidth which you want to find using buttons. When the valid frequency is input, the bandwidth is selected automatically. You can select the value of 6,7 or 8 MHz. After select option. Press OK button to start the scanning process.

Analogue Manual Setup

To setup, follow steps 1~3 on page 26
4. Press the buttons to select Analogue Manual Setup, then press OK button.
Program : Press repeatedly to select the programme position
(01 to 99) for the channel and press the OK button.
Channel : Tune the channel using buttons. AFT : Fine tunes the channel to obtain a clearer picture. If the picture
is not clear, select Off and press the OK button. When the fine tuning bar appears, press the buttons to obtain a clearer picture, then press the OK button. Normally, select "NICAM." If the sound from the NICAM broadcast is not clear, select "Standard" and then press the OK button. broadcasting signal. If not detected, you can edit name by using buttons.
Manual Set Program 01 Channel --AFT On Tuner Audio NICAM Station Name --->Move sOk
Tuner Audio : Sets the channels for the NICAM broadcast.
Station Name : Display station name automatically detected in
Tuner Preset Title List Timer Edit Disc Setting Setup Auto Preset Digital Manual Setup Digital Channel List Digital Favorite Channel Analog Manual Setup Analog Channel List

Changing the Password

Parental Title List Timer Edit Disc Setting Setup Programme Grade Rating Level Change Password : Off : Off 12:00
1. Press the buttons to select Change Password, then press the OK button. 2. Enter a new 4-digit password using the number buttons on the remote control. The Confirm the password message will be displayed.
3. Enter your new password again using the number buttons on the remote control.

English - 33

Setting up the Front Display
Options Title List Timer Edit Disc Setting Setup Language Parental Front Display 12:00 : Autouto A Bright Dimmer Off
This function allows you to adjusts the lighting of the front panel display. Auto : Adjusts to low lighting when power is off. Bright : Maintains bright lighting when power is off. Dimmer : Maintains low lighting regardless of whether power is on or off. Off : Turn off the lighting when power is off. Maintains the lighting when power is on.
Setting up the Video Options
Setup 12:00 Tuner Preset Clock Set Video Audio Features Options
Title List Timer Edit Disc Setting Setup
This function allows you to setup the video setting. This function depends on disc type. It may not work for some disc types. 1. With the unit in Stop mode, press the MENU button. 2. Press the buttons to select Setup, then press the OK button. 3. Press the buttons to select Video, then press the OK button. Video setup menu will be displayed. 4. Press the buttons to select the desired video option, then press the OK button. 5. Press the buttons to select the desired item, then press the OK button.

TV Type

Video Title List Timer Edit Disc Setting Setup TV Type Picture Control AV 1 Output Component Out Progressive : 4:316:9 Box Letter : Standard Box 4:3 Letter : Video Pan Scan 4:3 : On : On 12:00
Depending on the type of television you have, you may want to adjust the screen setting. (aspect ratio)
16:9 : You can view the full 16:9 picture on your wide screen TV. 4:3 Letter Box : Select when you want to see the total 16:9 ratio screen
DVD supplies, even though you have a TV with a 4:3 ratio screen. Black bars will appear at the top and bottom of the screen.
4:3 Pan Scan : Select this for conventional size TV when you want to see
the central portion of the 16:9 screen. (Extreme left and right side of movie picture will be cut off.)

English - 34

Resolution(HDMI) (DVD-SR275M only)
Video Title List Timer Edit DV Dubbing Disc Setting Setup
>Move sOk rReturn eExit
12:00 TV Type : 4:3 Letter Box Resolution(HDMI) : Auto Auto Video(HDMI) : YCbCr x 1080p x Picture Control : Standard 1080i 1280 AV 1 Output : Video x 720p Component Out : On 720 x 576p Progressive : On

Audio Track ENG MPEG

>Change

English - 40

Setting the Favourite Channel
You can immediately register the present channel to the Digital Favourite Channel List.
1. Press the FAV LIST button while you are viewing a programme. 2. To add the current channel to the Digital Favourite channels, press the YELLOW (C) button. (To display all favourite list, press the FAV LIST button. Each time FAV LIST button is pressed, favourite list will be toggled.) To remove a favourite channel from the Digital Favourite channel list, press the RED(A) button.
To watch the favourite channel Press the FAV LIST button and then select the channel. Press the OK button to watch that channel.
M You can make up to 8 Digital favourite channel. (TV favourite list:
4, Radio favourite list:4)
Changing the Subtitle Language

Subtitle ENG

When the current broadcasting programme provides subtitle, press the SUBTITLE button. If Subtitle is available on current programme, menu bar is displayed on the upper side. 1. Press the SUBTITLE button. 2. Press the buttons to select a desired subtitle, then press the OK

button.

Using the digital text service

B B C i 100

Wednesday 3 Aug News Multiscreen News Headlines Sport Weather Finance BBCi INDEX Today on BBCi Today's regional headlines from BBC News. 160 Press TEXT to exit
When the current broadcasting programme provides digital text service, you can use digital text service. 1. Press the TEXT button, the main menu of digital text will be displayed. 2. Press the or number button to select desired digital text, then press the OK button.
M Press the EXIT button to exit the main menu of digital text.
Press the TEXT button to exit the digital text mode.

English - 41

DTV Guide
12:00 TUE 1 JAN 2008 12:00 - 12.25 Blue Peter

TUE 1 JAN

001 BBC ONE 002 BBC TWO 007 CBBC Channel 030 CBBC Channel 040 BBC NEWS BBCi A
The electronic programme guide gives you a channel list for the channels. 1. Press the GUIDE button while you are viewing a programme. (DTV)
12:30 Blue Peter --Basli Brush BBCi --The Weekest Link ---
13:00 Neighbours BBC News

13:30 Look North

Beg. Borrow or Steal Strictly Come Dancing: It T Blue Peter BBC News BBCi Out There ---

Tracy Beake

BBC News

Timer Rec

PREVIOUS/NEXT DAY

INFORMATION

RED(A) button (Timer Record) : Setting the Timer Record. (l)button : Go to next day (l)button : Go to previous day
It displays programme from now to 8 days after.
button : select the programme and station. INFO button (Information) : View the detail information
M The contents of cell could be displayed with a delay according to the

broadcasting.

Subtitle languages may not work depending on the disc type. This is only available during playback. You can also operate this function by pressing the SUBTITLE button on the remote control. 1. Press the ANYKEY button during playback. 2. Press the buttons to select Subtitle, then press the buttons to select the desired subtitle language. 3. Press the OK button.
M The subtitle display may be different depending on the disc type.
Some discs allow you to select the language for the disc menu only. To make the sub--menu disappear,press the ANYKEY or RETURN
Changing the Camera Angle
If a DVD-VIDEO contains multiple angles of a particular scene, you can use the Angle function. If the disc contains multiple angles, the A appears on the screen. 1. Press the ANYKEY button during playback. 2. Press the buttons to select Angle, then press the buttons or number (0~9) buttons to select the desired angle scene. 3. Press the OK button.
M This function is disc-dependent, and may not work all DVDs.
with a multi-camera angle system. button again.
This function does not work when a DVD has not been recorded To make the sub-menu disappear, press the ANYKEY or RETURN

English - 48

Playing an Audio CD/MP3
Buttons on the Remote Control used for Audio CD(CD-DA)/MP3 playback
1. : Selects a track (song). 2. OK button : Plays the selected track (song). 3. SKIP ( 4. SKIP ( ) button : Moves to the next track. ) button : Moves to the previous track. ) buttons : Forward scan : FF,
5. Press the SEARCH ( Reverse scan : FR 7. STOP ( 8. PAUSE (
6. PLAY ( ) button : Plays a track(song). ) button : Stops a track(song). ) button : Pauses Playback. To Playback, press the PLAY button.
Playing an Audio CD(CD-DA)
1. Insert an audio CD (CD-DA) into the disc tray.
The audio CD menu appears and the tracks (songs) are played

automatically.

Music Q TRACK01.CDA

9 1/15

12:00 Surround : Off Play q9 TRACK01.CDA 9 TRACK02.CDA 9 TRACK03.CDA 9 TRACK04.CDA 9 TRACK05.CDA 9 TRACK06.CDA 00:00:19
2. Press the buttons to select the track (song) you want to hear, and then press the OK button.
Audio CD(CD-DA) Screen Elements
Current track (song) : Displays the number of the track currently being played. This shows the operating state of a disc and a playback time corresponding to a portion that is currently played.

Simple editing (erasing titles/changing title name).
M You can initialise discs automatically using EZ REC MODE.

(see page 29).

English - 53

Recording Mode

Select one of eight recording modes by pressing the REC MODE button repeatedly while the unit is in Stop mode for the desired recording time and picture quality. In general, picture quality improves as the recording time decreases. In AUTO mode, the most suitable record mode is adjusted automatically, according to remaining time on the disc and length of the timer recording. This function is selected only one mode in HQ, HSP, SP, LSP, ESP, LP, EP and SLP modes and you can use this mode for timer recording. Recording Mode HQ (high quality mode) HSP SP (standard quality mode) LSP ESP LP (long recording mode) EP SLP (long duration mode) Recording Times DVD-RW/-R Approx. 1 hour Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes Approx. 2 hours Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes Approx. 3 hours Approx. 4 hours Approx. 6 hours Approx. 8 hours
The dual layer DVDRs have approximately double the capacity of single layer DVDRs.
M Recording time may vary according to specific conditions.
as the internal firmware uses a portion of the memory.
1GB = 1,000,000,000 bytes; actual formatted capacity may be less DVB-T recording is possible only on AUTO mode. On DVB-T recording, recording mode will be automatically
determined depending on the quality of the video (or audio).

English - 54

Unrecordable pictures
Pictures with copy protection cannot be recorded on this DVD Recorder. When the DVD Recorder receives a copy- guard signal while recording, recording stops and the following message appears on the screen.
You cannot record copy protected movie.
Concerning Copy Control Signals
TV broadcasts that contain copy control signals may have one of the following three signal types, Copy-Free, Copy-Once and Copy-Never. If you want to record a copy-once type programme, use DVD-RW with CPRM in VR Mode and DVD-RAM discs. Signal type Copy-Free O O O O Copy-Once O* Copy-Never
DVD-RAM(Ver.2.0) DVD+RW DVD+R DVD-RW(Ver.1.1) DVD-RW(Ver.1.1) with CPRM VR mode V mode DVD-R
Once Copy Once has been recorded, recording cannot be done anymore. * Compatible with CPRM
Content Protection for Recordable Media (CPRM)
CPRM is a mechanism that ties a recording to the media on which it is recorded. It is supported by some DVD Recorders, but not by many DVD players. Each blank recordable DVD has a unique 64-bit media ID etched in the BCA. When protected content is recorded onto the disc, it can be encrypted with a 56-bit C2 (Cryptomeria) cipher derived from the media ID. During playback, the ID is read from the BCA and used to generate a key to decrypt the contents of the disc. If the contents of the disc are copied to other media, the ID will be absent or wrong and the data will not be decryptable. Disc contents cannot be copied to other media.

M The timer counter decreases by the minute from the recording time
set to 0:00, then the DVD Recorder stops recording.

Making a Timer Recording

1. Check the antenna cable is connected. 2. Check the remaining time of the disc. 3. Check the date and time are correct. Make sure the Clock (Setup-Present Time) must be set before you proceed with a timer recording. (See pages 24~25) 1. With the unit in Stop mode, press the MENU button. 2. Press the buttons to select Timer, then press the OK button. 3. Press the buttons to select Timer-Standard, then press the OK button.

English - 58

4. Set timer recording option.
Fill the input items using the buttons and number buttons.
: Moves to the previous/next item. , 0~9 : Sets a value.
Date : Timer Recording allows setting the recording time within one
month period. Set the recording day. (month/day)
Sun Mon-Fri Mon-Sat Sun-Sat Today

30/01 29/01 02/01 01/01

Start/End Time : Start and end time of the timer recording. Prog. : The video input source (AV1, AV2 or AV3), or the broadcasting
channel you want to make a timer recording from. To convert DTV/Analogue, press DTV/ANALOG button of the remote control. On the DTV mode, you can change TV or RADIO by pressing the TV/RADIO button on the remote control.
Timer - Standard No. Date 01 No.01 --/-Start --:-End --:-Prog. Mode -----PDC ---

12:00 Edit

--/---Date --:-- --:-- ---- --Start End Prog. Mode PDC --/---:-- --:-- ---- ----Today --:-- 00 --:--11 ---- --- SP Off 12 : 12 : Prog. 1 --/-----:---:----------------
Recording Mode (DVD) AUTO : Select when you want to set video quality automatically. In AUTO mode, the most suitable record mode is adjusted automatically, according to remaining time on the disc and length of the timer recording. This function is selected only one mode in HQ, HSP, SP, LSP, ESP, LP, EP and SLP modes and you can use this mode for timer recording. HQ : Approx. 1 hour HSP : Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes SP (standard quality) : Approx. 2 hours LSP : Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes ESP : Approx. 3 hour LP (low quality) : Approx. 4 hour EP (extended mode) : Approx. 6 hour SLP (long duration mode) : Approx. 8 hours The dual layer DVDRs have approximately double the capacity of single layer DVDRs.
--/---:-06 VIDEO Plus+ --/---:--

>Adjust

M When you are recording at EP mode on a DVD-RW(V mode)/-R disc,
it may not record the full 6 hours because the unit uses the VBR(Variable Bit Rate) ENCODING system. For example, if you record a programme with a lot of action, it uses a higher bit rate which in turn consumes more disc memory.
DVB-T Timer recording is possible only on AUTO mode. On DVB-T recording, recording mode will be automatically

Backspace : Deletes the character before the cursor. Space : Enters a blank and moves the cursor one forward (to the right). Delete : Deletes the character at the cursor position. Clear : Deletes all the character inputs. Finish : Registers the character inputs.
5. Press the buttons to select Finish, then press the OK button. A disc name is given to the disc.
M To edit the disc name, you need to clear disc protection in advance.
Depending on the kind of disc, the displayed screen may be

different.

Disc Protection
Disc Setting Title List Timer Edit Disc Setting Setup Disc Name : Disc Disc Protect : Not Protected Disc Format : VR Mode Disc Finalise : Unfinalised Disc Information Erase All Titles 12:00
(VR mode) DVD-SR275M only
Disc Protect allows you to protect your discs from being formatted or deleted due to unintended operations. 1. With the unit in Stop mode, press the MENU button. 2. Press the buttons to select Disc Setting, then press the OK button. 3. Press the buttons to select Disc Protect, then press the OK button. 4. Press the button to select Protected, then press the OK button.

English - 74

Formatting a Disc

<DVD-RAM>

Disc Setting Title List Timer Edit Disc Setting Setup Disc Name : Disc Disc Protect : Not Protected Disc Format : VR Mode Disc Finalise : Unfinalised Select the recording format. Disc Information Erase All Titles

VR Mode Video Mode

Use these instructions to format a disc. The Disc Protection should be cleared.
2. Press the buttons to select Disc Setting, then press the OK button. 3. Press the buttons to select Disc Format, then press the OK button.

<DVD-RW>

You will be prompted with the confirmation message All of the data
will be erased (even protected titles). Do you want to format this disc?.

DVD-RAM/-RW

You will be prompted with the confirmation message Select the
recording format. (When using a DVD-RAM disc, you can select VR mode only) You will be prompted with the confirmation message All of the data will be erased (even protected titles). Do you want to format this disc?. to format disc?.
You will be prompted with the confirmation message Do you want
4. Press the buttons to select OK, then press the OK button. The disc is formatted.
M You can change the disc mode only one time when the unused
DVD-R disc is inserted. DVD-VR mode DISC DVD-RAM DVD-RW DVD-R DVD-V mode DVD-RW DVD-R
DVD-VR and DVD-V mode are defined according to their recording format.

English - 75

Finalising a Disc
After you record titles onto a DVD-RW/R disc with your DVD Recorder, it needs to be finalised before it can be played back on external devices.

Correct Disposal of This Product (Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment) (Applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems) This marking shown on the product or its literature, indicates that it should not be disposed with other household wastes at the end of its working life. To prevent possible harm to the environment or human health from uncontrolled waste disposal, please separate this from other types of wastes and recycle it responsibly to promote the sustainable reuse of material resources. Household users should contact either the retailer where they purchased this product, or their local government office, for details of where and how they can take this item for environmentally safe recycling. Business users should contact their supplier and check the terms and conditions of the purchase contract. This product should not be mixed with other commercial wastes for disposal.

AK68-01575A

N and issue date : 90301 - 01/03/2009 Circulation : 500000 Page : 70 Frequency : Monthly Size : 90 % Which_90301_71_313.pdf 2056 cm2 Web Site: http://www.which.co.uk
We help you choose between DVD recorders and hard-disk-based PVRs-and reveal the Best Buys
ecording TV the digital quick easy and offers tricks and benefits that range

in is a , of

simply weren' possible with

t. ( )

the VCR DVD recorders and personal video recorders PVRs deliver excellent picture and sound quality and they often feature on-screen electronic programme guides EPGs that list whole weeks TV and let you select button your recordings the touch Digital recorders put you firmly control offering the ability rewind and pause live TV skip adverts start
, , ( ) a at. of a in to , or ,
watching programme before finished recording They can store lot shows-often hundreds hours -and they include innovations such as `series linking; which automatically
it' s a. a of of. in a or a a
with family and friends Each DVD

can store only two hours

good quality recordings though Combination recorders include
TV series records each episode The choice between PVR DVD recorder down your needs though you can' decide there are also combination models that can record both DVDs and built-in hard diskDVD recorders store TV shows on removable discs and are ideal you want archive share your recordings
is to t if , to a if to or

Recording TV

recording systems that offer the large storage capacities available on PVRs as well as the ability archive any shows

harddisk

the digital World quick

in is a

easy and offers range tricks and benefits
you wish keep DVD However they have only one digital tuner so time can record only one show Ifs also worth noting that DVD recorders are generally harder use

to. to , ,. at a to

even the best DVD recorders carat match

dedicated PVR for ease

operation

DVD recorders

Panasonic

DMREX768EB-K

. in if

RDRHXD890

it' s ,. ,

RDRHXD995

This combination model delivers great picture and sound quality The hard disk TV can record 35 hours highest quality and this doubles you use the next best quality which still very use good reasonably easy though the EPG cramped and you can' record TV direct DVD When we looked was cheapest Currys
of , is ,. It is to , is , t to. it at. ,
Picture and sound quality are good on this combination model and use The' pause live relatively easy TV' function works strangely recording the hard disk rather than using

to to a

traditional memory buffer which inconvenient Its on-screen menus are read logical and the display easy was cheapest Currys

is ,. to. is. It at

WORTH KNOWING Make sure you use the eco mode standby will use lot energy

in it or , a of.

WORTH KNOWING has USB input so you can transfer MP3s Jpegs the hard Bisk from an external device

a It to or.

Want more? For reviews more than 50 DVD recorders see
This combination model relatively use and offers good picture easy and sound quality though using the HDMI output produce an `upscaled' an HDTV picture when connected doesn' improve picture quality Like the the `pause live TV' function HXD890 strange on this model When we looked was cheapest John Lewis
to to. t 2 , ( ). is at. it ,
WE LIKE You can add an additional
card reader access Setanta Top-Up TV pay-TV services
Avallable Currys and Cornet Hard disk 160GB Analogue tuner No DVD-Ram recording Yes Freeview EPG No
Avallable Currys and Cornet Hard disk 160GB Analogue tuner Yes DVD-Ram recording No Freeview EPG Yes
www.which.co.uk dvdrecorders
Avallable John Lewis Currys and Cornet Hard disk 250GB Anabgue tuner Yes DV D.Ram recor ng No Freeview EPG Yes

70 March 2009

www.which.co.uk

Copyright (Which) No reproduction without authorisation
N and issue date : 90301 - 01/03/2009 Circulation : 500000 Page : 71 Frequency : Monthly Size : 90 % Which_90301_71_313.pdf 2056 cm2 Web Site: http://www.which.co.uk

DVD RECORDERS

SPECIFICATION

WHICH? TEST PERFORMANCE

PANASONIC DMR-EX768EB-K

225 225

SONY RDR-HXD890
* * * * * * *; * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
SONY RDR-HXD995 TOSHIBA D-R18DT-K-TB

D n / a

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LG RHT397H

* * * *

r7k7k7k

* * * * * *

* *: * *

PANASONIC DMR-EX78EB-K

* * * * *

TOSHIBA RD-88DT-K-TB
SONY RDR-HXD790 SAMSUNG DVD-SR275M XEU
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
D n / a i * * * * * * * * * * *' * * * * 1 * * * * * * *
10 SAMSUNG DVD-SH871M XEU

* * * * * * * * *

PHILIPS DVDR552OH 05

*: * * *

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
USING THE TABLE The more stars the better
models are guide For the latest prices go

a. , to

Test performance

www.whichcompare

=. D ,
Specification Price For Best Buys we give the cheapest widely available high street online price as we went press Prices for other

or to.

co.uk Type DVD recorder C= Combination DVD recorder and PVR Recording time Hard disk recording time

highest quality

Contacts
Freesat www.freesat.co.uk
r--- ----------------------------. ' l
Playback picture sound Picture sound quality for pre-recorded DVDs Recorded playback picture sound Picture sound quality for programmes the device has recorded Recorded

/ /. / /

playback picture Long play For programmes the device has recorded long-play mode Ease

( ) in of

Ignores price and based on Picture and sound quality both recorded and playback 60%%

is : ,

use How easy the recorder set up and use Power use How much power the recorder uses standby and when recording

is to in

10%% 10%%

Features Power use

recorder

Typical

Which should you choose?
Freeview www.freeview.co.uk
Humax 8800 www.humaxdigital.co.uk

recording time

Have large hard disks that can typically store 100-200 hours programming

5454; www.Ige.co.uk

Panasonic 7357 www.panasonic.co.uk Philips 0845 6010354; www.philips.co.uk Sagem 900; www.sagem.com Samsung 864 www.samsung.com uk

Standalone recorders can only record two hours on disc highest quality Combination models have capacities similar PVR5

at a. to.

use Best Buys typically Generally harder rate three stars but many score lower
use Best Buys are Generally easy use usually rated four stars for ease

to. of

Versatile

recording Archiving

Have only one digital tuner so can record time only one programme
Sharp 277; www.sharp.co.uk Sony 0870 5111999; www.sony.co.uk
Toshiba 4424 www.toshiba.co.uk
Twin-tuner PVRs can record two programmes and let you watch recorded show all the same time

a at , t

sharing
Are suitable for archiving programmes you want keep Discs can be lent and friends you want share recordings

to. to if to

family-you'
Aren' suitable for long-term archiving need transfer recordings VCR DVD for archiving sharing

to ll to or or

TVonics 30 551; www.tvonics.com
Wharfedale 0011 www.wharfedale.co.uk

Analogue

reception-good for those who can'
May have both analogue and digital tuners receive digital TV
Have only digital tuners so are no gond for those who can' get digital TV

www.whichcompare.co.uk

March 2009 171
N and issue date : 90301 - 01/03/2009 Circulation : 500000 Page : 72 Frequency : Monthly Size : 90 % Which_90301_71_313.pdf 2056 cm2 Web Site: http://www.which.co.uk

Personal video recorders

Twin-tuner PVRs allow you record two TV programmes once while

to at ,

simultaneously playing back an earlier recording Some PVRs can record two programmes while you watch third show live PVRs are only suitable for digital TV viewers We've tested PVRs for Freeview and the Humax FoxsatHDR-the first PVR for
episodes- before its hard disk full There' no deterioration picture and sound quality when you

is. s in

record shows-the quality the same as you were watching TV live PVRs aren' suitable for long-term

is if. t

Foxsat-HDR

, It of of

Humax PVR9300T 194

a to of. is to

Freesat Sky satellite subscribers have the option
the Sky and Sky HD PVRs and Virgin Media cable viewers can sign

of + ,

box up fora PVRs have large hard disks that offer lots storage -the largest model we've tested can record 250 hours TV equivalent two

V +. of of to ,

you archive programmes you can transfer PVR DVD VCR recordings AH PVRs can record and playback digital subtitles and the Humax Foxsat-HDR the first PVR available that supports digital audio description-it can record and playback the additional soundtrack audio

if , ,

storage though so
commentary provided for those with impaired vision

of to ,

work with the The first PVR designed Freesat satellite TV service this model 143 hours standard can record up 35 hours definition TV HD TV Standard definition and HD recordings can be made the same time has two USB ports that can be used for you can archive archiving recordings DVD recorder VCR using the Scart output This model very easy set up and use and the EPG well laid out Power consumption reasonable and there' low-standby-power mode When we looked was cheapest John Lewis and Comet
or. at It or a or to. is is ,. is ,. s a it at ,.
This Humax PVR has large hard disk 200 hours TV that can record up set up and very straightforward use though some advanced features understand The EPG are tricky well laid out but loses the guide when switched standby and takes sluggish 13 minutes repopulate The remote control easy find your way around but functions you won' need every day are accessed via small badly labelled buttons This model has recently had software upgrade which has reduced the fan noise When we looked was cheapest John Lewis
, to. is it , to a to. is to t , ,. a ,. at. it ,

WORTH KNOWING This

To read reviews ail the PVRs we've tested go
the first PVR with digital audio description
WORTH KNOWING add possible card reader for accessing pay-TV channels from Setanta Top-Up TV

It' s to a or.

Eastenders

www.which.co.uk pvrs

Available cornet John Lewis Hard drive 320GB HD Yen Record two channels watch third Yes
Available Argos Cornet John Lewis Hard drive 320GB HD No Record two channels watch third Yes

, , a ,

Which? online TV power use
the least the home appliances The average 32-inch TV uses around 100 watts but you can cut that by 20%% more by following the simple tips our video guide cutting your TV' power

TVs are one

energyefficient

of in. , or in to s

good option for PS3 users
The Sony PlayTV an add-on box PS3 that for the Sony PlayStation has two built-in Freeview tuners and turns the PS3 Into PVR its wireless PlayTV' appeal lies capabilities and remote-viewing features Armed with Sony PSP handheld games console access PlayTV and possible control over the internet can also be set up remotely you already own PS3 and are considering PVR for recording digital TV the cost-effec PIayTV add-on tive choice-at save you more than 120 on the average Best Buy price To read our full review PlayTV

is 3 ( ) a. in s a. it' s , to it.
consumption Go www.which co.uk cuttvpoweruse see Which? technology expert Mike Briggs make your TV less explain how drain on our energy resources

. to. / to to. of a

Recordings

MEMBER BENEFIT

Which? members can make great savings with Hughes Direct
Hughes Direct giving Which? members some exclusive discounts offering the Best Buy PVR Humax PVR9300T for 164 and Best Buy DVD recorders the Panasonic DMR-EX768EB-K and Sony RDR-HXD890 for 194 each for delivery Offers plus are subject stock availability

is , , 5. ( ) to

call AII goods are guaranteed 10%% below be minimum

. or to of a

and prices are valid until 30 April 2009 To find out more details about this offer and
other member-only discounts from Hughes Direct log on www.hughesdirect.co.uk which

to , /

high-street prices published Which? product reports you find the same product cheaper elsewhere including delivery within seven days purchase Hughes Direct promises refund 110%% the difference

in. If ( ) of , to of.

www.which.co.uk playtv

March 2009

N and issue date : 90301 - 01/03/2009 Circulation : 500000 Page : 73 Frequency : Monthly Size : 90 % Which_90301_71_313.pdf 2056 cm2 Web Site: http://www.which.co.uk

Humax PVR9150T 127

a it , to of

Which'

The PVR9150T has 160GB BUY hard disk which means can record up 100 hours television very easy set up and use though difficult understand some the advanced features The EPG well laid out and easy find your way around as the decent-sized remote control Like the PVR9300T however less common functions are accessed via small poorly labelled buttons located under flap The instruction manual well laid out and the on-screen menus are intuitive and easy navigate was cheapest Comet
. It' s to , it' s to of. is to , is. , , , a. is to. It at.

TVonics DTR-Z250 176

5 Is , ( ) is , it ,

TVonics DTR-Z500 194

of a it a
Like the DTR-Z500 this model very small but its hard disk smaller 250GB records around 125 hours television Its twin tuners allow you record one live programme while record two watching another programmes once while playing back third you' ve recorded previously The EPG well laid out and allows you view programme schedules up seven days advance The guide lost when the PVR switched standby but repopulates only four minutes when switched back on When we looked was cheapest John Lewis
at of. to to or , at a. is to to in. is is to , it in. it at. ,

PVRs have

hard disks Chat offer lots

WE LIKE

low-standbypower
mode which reduces power 1.9 watts consumption
WORTH KNOWING This the same as the TVonics DTR-Z500 but with smaller hard disk
Available Argos Cornet Hard drive 160GB HD No Record two channels watch third Yes
Available Currys John Lewis Hard drive 250GB HD No Record two channels watch third No
storage the largest model we' ve tested cati record 250 hours TV
This TVonics PVR may be small about the size paperback book -but has massive 500GB hard disk that can record around 250 hours television However you can' add card reader for accessing pay-TV channels from Setanta Top-Up TV reasonably easy PVR set up and use with versatile and well-presented EPG and straightforward recording and playback The remote control sensibly laid out with useful' Timer' and Library' buttons Digital subtitles can be recorded and turned on off as required but audio description not supported was cheapest John Lewis
of. t , a or. It' to s a a ,. is , '. / is. It at.
WORTH KNOWING This PVR has the date Iargest hard disk we've seen
Available Currys John Lewis Hard drive 500GB HD No Record two channels watch third No

SD: 143 HD: 35

HUMAX Foxsat-HDR
HUMAX PVR-9300T HUMAX PVR-9150T
TVONICS DTR-Z250 TVONICS DTR-Z500 SHARP TU-R252H SHARP TU-R162H DIGIHOME DTR160 SONY PIayTV

127 176

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Freesat

Yes Yes Yes

200.100

Freeview Freeview Freeview Freeview Freeview Freeview Freeview Freeview Freeview Freeview Freeview

194 166

Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes

Yes Yes

80 Depends on PS3 capacity 240

10 WHARFEDALE TU-500DTR

SAGEM DTR67250T

12 SAGEM DTR64160T

definition Sertes Iink
Records an entre series with the touch button
Specification Price See p71 Max recording SD standard definition HD high

. = = ,

Digital service Whether the PVR receives Freeview Freesat Playback white recording Whether
you can record two the same programmes time while watching third previously recorded programme View TV while recording Whether you can record two
programmes and watch third live channel the same time
Power use Energy efficiency the PVR
Test performance Features Versatility and features each box

Score Features

30%% 60%%

Power use