Panasonic DMR-EZ485VK DVD Recorder / VCR Combo

The product (Panasonic DMR-EZ485V DVDR/VCR) is a good product, reasonable set of features, but misleading on capability descriptions. Purchased unit due to change-over to digital TV.  However, the VCR cannot record the digital TV broadcast - this lack of recording capability is well hidden in the manual and not mentioned in the specs on the box.  So a minor paradigm shift to recording to DVD discs and the DVD-RAM is promoted throughout the manual.  Panasonic even offers a discount for purchasing DVD media on-line at their web site.  Attempted to purchase after registering product and joining their "shopping club".  First, very limited types of DVD-RAM available on-line and second, the discount code not valid.  Sent a note to customer service and 3 days later a reply referred me to calling the direct shopping line. Finally reached someone who knew what I was talking about and she indicated that Panasonic Direct was out of inventory and not accepting orders and could not help with the discount code.  Frustrating and a waste of time.  Buy this product only if you can handle recording TV broadcasts DVD disks.