Sony RDR-GX7 DVD Recorder / Player (Sony-RDRGX7)

Reviewed by: dargentini

Duration of ownership:

Strengths: Easy to use on screen menu system. Smooth bug free software operation. Great control over video input quality to improve recorded results. Good playback video control adjustments to match output to TV.

Weaknesses: Confusing small button remote.

Overall Evaluation: This is a fine DVD recorder and the 3rd one I've tried in two years. I have made the best looking recordings I ever have using this machine. All of it's input and playback control settings can be viewed in real time to verify the results before you record to DVD. When copying old VHS tapes or recording TV broadcasts you can control noise reduction, color, contrast, hue, and brightness before burning. This is especially useful when archiving old material that needs some correction to look its best. You can also make similar adjustments to the playback output to match your TV monitor for best picture. Another great feature is that all video sources can be directed to the component video outputs and can be switched between progressive or interlaced formats. My DVD copies now look better than the original source tapes. I didn't think this was possible until using the Sony. One last bit of info is to correct some confusion over disk recording formats and finalizing. On the Sony, like most other recorders, +RW disks finalize as part of the recording process. -RW and -R need to be finalized before they can be read on other players. There is a finalize disk option in the disk info menu to do this. Finally, use +RW -RW (video mode)and -R disks for general TV recording and tape copying and reserve -RW(VR mode) for more edit heavy jobs such as DV dubing. Windows XP should have a patch this year that allows for VR disk compatibility. Overall a fine bargain now that it's come down in price to $300.