subject: Considerations When Buying Digital TV Recorders [print this page] Considerations When Buying Digital TV Recorders
If you are one of those people to invest in digital TV recorders then you need to be reassured that you are buying the right one for you. A starting point is the hard drive. This is where this device differs from VCRs or DVD recorder - you don't need a disc or cassette to record onto. Instead it stores the programmes as data onto the unit's hard drive, much like your computer. The amount of memory from one model to another varies enormously, and you will find that the price is directly proportional to the amount of memory it has. Another factor to consider is that the amount of memory available will reduce considerably if you record in HD.
Whilst all digital TV recorders have electronic programming guides they tend to vary in layout. You should check that the type of on screen guide that is offered by the model you are looking at is easy to navigate and offers what you are looking for. There are some models that have very poorly designed guides that lead to frustration when trying to navigate.
Some digital TV recorders have twin tuners. This means that you are able to record two programmes at once while watching another that you have previously recorded. Some models allow to record two programmes while watching another.
Most models will constantly record programmes while you are watching. This allows you do such things as pause live television if the telephone rings or are otherwise interrupted. When you return, simply resume watching your programme where you left off. Also, you have the option to rewind a programme you are watching. Have you ever not quite heard a vital bit of dialogue which has left you confused for the remainder of the programme? Well, most digital TV recorders will allow you to rewind to the bit you missed and it will all make much more sense to you.
Another feature to check is what is known as "chase play". This means you start recording a programme, but unlike VCRs or DVD recorders, you do not have to wait until it has finished recording before you start watching. This means you can start watching a programme a few minutes after it has started. This is useful if you know you are going to be too late home to catch the first few minutes of a programme. Or, alternatively, if you find the ads particularly irritating you can fast forward through them.
