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The CyberHome DVR1600 is measures just over 13.7 by 9 by 1.7 inches. And at a mere $115, it won't take a chunk out of your wallet, either.
In view of its low price, we anticipated a DVD recorder with a minimum of features, but we got more than we expected. For example, the DVR1600 has composite, S-Video, and component outputs; composite inputs on both front and rear; and an S-Video input on the rear. It even has a FireWire input--standard issue on higher-priced competing models--so you can transfer video from a digital camcorder. The on-screen menu lets you control the camcorder with the DVR1600's remote, simplifying the task of transferring selected parts of a video.
The labels for the ports on the rear of the recorder are labeled with glow-in-the-dark paint, which makes finding the ports easier when you're scrabbling around behind the TV.
The unit records only to write-once DVD+R and rewritable +RW discs, though it can also read DVD-R discs. It can't read DVD-RAM discs at all.
The DVR1600's image quality was middling at best (nonetheless, a step up from VHS quality). Contrast seemed good and colors were accurate, but even recordings made at the highest quality setting imparted a shimmering pattern to sharp edges--a flaw that was especially noticeable in cartoons.
Another negative: The DVR1600's remote control is awkward and unintuitive, with buttons laid out in a grid rather like those on a pocket calculator. Since finding specific controls by touch was virtually impossible, we found ourselves continually glancing from the screen to the remote--which made scheduling a real bear. And because the unit lacks support for an electronic program guide or for VCR Plus+ codes, you have to do your scheduling manually.
We wouldn't recommend the DVR1600 for general use, but its low cost and small size make it adequate as a second recorder for light use. Just don't expect to be able to set up recordings quickly with the awkward remote.
Upshot: The DVR1600 records middling-quality video, but it doesn't cost much more than a DVD player, making it an acceptable choice to serve as a second DVD recorder.
Melissa Perenson
