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.
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.
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.
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.