Sony was the first company to release a multi-format product in the standalone DVD recorders category. All Sony DVD recorders write both DVD-R/RW and DVD+R/RW formats. This makes the discs recorded on Sony highly compatible with other DVD players. You may consider the prices from Sony a bit too high; however, you'll be pleased to find out that this manufacturer puts more than a few upward features on the same deck.

Sony RDR-GX300

This unit fulfills both basic and superior functions for a standalone DVD recorder. Most DVD recorders will allow you to record more than one format for better compatibility, or playback in the progressive scan mode, or allow you to easily record from VHS tape or directly from TV, through a built-in TV tuner.

Sony DVD Recorder - RDR-GX300 Sony's new RDR-GX300 DVD Recorder is the component moment you have been waiting for. Record to DVD from your television and see the difference digital technology makes. The RDR-GX300 features DVD+RW/-RW/-R +R DVD Format Recording Compatibility, Precision Cinema Progressive™ 480P for Playback, and a User Friendly Graphic User Interface.The Timer Recording feature and Adjustable Recording Times (60-360 Minutes) enable simple TV to DVD recording. Additional features include a Variable Bit Rate for Linear and Non-Linear Editing, Video DAC with 108Mhz processing w/NSV, a 192 kHz 24 Bit Digital to Analog Converter, a Dolby® Digital and dts® Optical/Coaxial Output, and TV Virtual Surround with 4 Surround Modes.

Here are some of the not-so-common features of RDR-GX300:

• Timer programming through VCR Plus+ function;
• Simultaneous recording and playback;
• VBR recording technology;
• IR blaster for time shifting.

Downside: This model lacks a FireWire input for camcorder connection.

Sony RDR-GX7

A better appreciated model from Sony is RDR-GX7. This newer model adds an i.LINK (FireWire) input and a graphic interface that makes it more user-friendly. In exchange, you may miss the IR blaster of the RDR-GX300.

Sony RDR-GX7 DVD Recorder/Player Powerful standalone unit lets you make superior digital recordings and gives you massive archival capabilities! Record TV shows, move old video footage to DVD, and transfer home movies from a video camera, or download video through the i.LINK digital connection to make your own DVDs right on your TV!

The built-in TV tuner uses VCR Plus+ function for programming the recordings.

This Sony model offers a much better connectivity than the previous: progressive scan and component video outputs, composite and S-video in and out and FireWire port.

This model gives you the ability to transfer old laser discs on DVD support. RDR-GX7 is also a multi-region player.

Sony RDR-HX900

The built in 160 GB hard drive on this model gives even more versatility to your recordings: editing, easy transfer to removable DVD support, and some TiVo-like functions. This model includes a FireWire port and an IR blaster, two upper features that can hardly be found on the same unit.

Sony DVD Recorder - RDR-HX900 The RDR-HX900 DVD recorder is the perfect addition to your home theatre. Featuring a 160 GB hard disk drive, you can record and store up to 200 hours of your favorite TV shows. The RDR-HX900 also features his DVD recorder features DVD+RW/+R, DVD-RW/-R DVD recording compatibility, and up to 24 times High Speed Dubbing from Hard Disk Drive to DVD. The timer recording feature takes the hassle out of recording your favorite TV programs through an easy on-screen program guide. This DVD recorder also provides seamless integration through its front panel i.LINK® interface for DV/Digital 8® Camcorders connection for easy tape to disc content transfer.

In the good Sony tradition, the RDR-HX900 also writes multiple media formats: DVD-R/RW and DVD+R/RW.

Also read about Sony's RDR-VX500, a DVD/VCR combination recorder.