Pioneer DVR-320S DVD Recorder

I needed a DVD Recorder and in the past have used other recordable devices from Pioneer and Sony. I was suprised to see the local electronics retailer had it on sale for $249, so the purchase became a no-brainer. To date I have had only one problem and this was with the copy protection on the device, I wanted to make a backup of an old VHS tape that I can no longer buy and the macrovision copy protection burst into action and spoiled that.

I wanted a device that could handle the maximum possible array of inputs and with composite, s-video and IEEE-1394 (i-link) the 320 fitted the build. Using it is simplicity itself, with the menus being very elegant and straight forward.

For those not familiar with the IEEE-1394 (Apple people know it as Firewire) this interface is the standard on the current generation of miniDV camcorders, brands like Sharp, Sony, Canon, etc. This interface allows a totally digital transfer from camcorder to disc maintaining the highest possible quality, making this recorder a must consider for users of those camcorders. 1394 is also capable of controlling the camcorder's playback functions so as to synchronise recording.

The 320 uses DVD-r discs, making it compatible with most DVD players out there - it can also be used with DVD-RW discs. As a single in device in the home it also has the advantage of being able to play MP3 CD's WMA CDs and JPEG CDs.

Audio output is available in optical or coaxial digital as well as analog and the device seems able to hook up to just about anything you may have in the home. There is a wide range of adjustment for colour control and frame synchronisation available through the advanced menu settings.

Image quality is very good and there is an auto chapter creation facility. Overall I would recommend it to anyone - Pioneer is a well known and trusted brand with a history of quality engineering.