Sanyo HVR-DX610

A large and rather bulky unit, the HVR-DX610 DVD/VCR combination recorder from Sanyo nevertheless presents itself as a functional and easy to use device. Without any especially impressive features to recommend it, the Sanyo still manages to distinguish itself through a simple and effective interface, allowing the synergy of VHS and DVD technologies to fully blossom.

As a recording combo, the DX610's feature-set is understandably geared towards, well, recording. One-touch record and a well implemented timer function give the recorder a versatile and well-rounded recording capability. Four quality modes for DVD and two for VHS provide a solid range of options when making recordings, although in our opinion, the lower modes delivered a quality that made them not worth using, unless recording length was of maximum importance.

The Sanyo performed quite well in our tests, and we found it to be quite easy to use. Dubbing back and forth between DVD and VHS was pleasantly simple, although we were unable permanently set quality modes, and having to reselect them for each copy began to get a little tedious. Recording quality was clear and sharp at the highest settings, but deteriorated quickly as settings were lowered. The tradeoff here is longer recordings, and we managed to squeeze a fairly standard six hours of footage onto a single DVD at the lowest setting. One gripe we had was the lack of support for DVD-R discs.

The interface on the Sanyo is really what impressed us. It was a little more disjointed than what we usually prefer, but our initial distaste passed in mere seconds, as we found operating the DX610 to be simple and intuitive. Switching settings around, changing outputs, flicking back and forth between TV, VCR and DVD, and basic DVD menu operation were all lightning fast, courtesy of the interface, and we found ourselves completing our testing in record time. A dull grey-buttons-on-grey plastic remote complements the unit's lack of style in general, but still manages to provide excellent operation with a functionally convenient button layout.

With its 430mm x 354mm x 91mm of bulk, we were a little disappointed to discover a fairly minimal set of connection options on the back panel. Digital video output was limited to component, while digital audio was limited to coaxial. S-Video and composite inputs and outputs were also present. DV input provides support for copying footage from digital handycams.

The HVR-DX610 provides a solid and easy-to-use option for users looking for a no-fuss, no-frills DVD/VCR combination. Perfect for transferring an aging VHS collection to DVD, or just as a versatile recording device, this model was a breeze to use.