Features:
- VCR Plus+ Silver programming
- Universal, illuminated remote control
- Auto clock set with 24-hour backup
- Commercial Advance and Movie Advance
- 1-month, 8-program timer
Description:
Panasonic's PV-V4620 is an easy-to-use VCR that combines a wealth of conveniences with truly impressive performance. Far from a no-frills deck, the PV-V4620 is outfitted with just about every feature imaginable, including automatic clock setting and tape head cleaning; VCR Plus+, which simplifies programmed timer recording; and a one-touch recording system that you can activate from either the remote handset or the unit itself. Commercial Advance is an excellent feature that marks the commercials on a recorded tape and then automatically winds past them during playback. A similar Movie Advance function allows the viewer to fast-forward to chosen scenes or segments of favorite films. These features are accompanied by an excellent onscreen menu system that can display in English, Spanish, or French. In addition to a comprehensive fluorescent display and transport (stop, play, rewind, etc.), the handsome faceplate includes a second audio-video input for quick connection of a camcorder or video game. Many otherwise excellent VCRs are compromised by remote controls that either lack important features, have poor ergonomics, or are impossible to use in a darkened room because they don't have lighted keys. Happily, the Light Tower remote supplied with the PV-V4620 leaves nothing to be desired. An ergonomic masterpiece, this substantial handset features buttons of various shapes and sizes for easy identification. And of course, the most frequently used keys are backlit, making low-light operation a nonissue. This versatile transmitter also controls most brands of televisions, cable boxes and digital satellite receivers. A broad base enables the handset to stand "tower- style" on virtually any flat surface. In terms of sound and image quality, the PV-V4620 is one of the best midpriced VCRs we've tested. Colors are at once rich and natural, with a nearly perfect balance between "warm" flesh tones and background blues and greens. True blacks (as opposed to deep navy) are capably rendered as is the contrast between dark and light surfaces. Resolution of fine details and a lack of video "noise" are other hallmarks of this player. That said, special effects (fast play, review, and pause) are merely adequate. We noticed some image "jump" and horizontal bars, which the best current models virtually eliminate. Panasonic notes that this machine is made in Japan (as opposed to the other Pacific Rim countries where most VCRs are manufactured). This fact, combined with the PV-V4620's unsurpassed assortment of luxury features, probably explains the premium pricing. Given its superb remote control and a host of indexing and editing functions, which should satisfy avid "time shifters," the PV-V4620 easily justifies its somewhat higher than average price. --Anthony Chiarella Pros:
- Excellent image quality from prerecorded and rental tapes
- Unusually comprehensive array of features should satisfy gadget lovers
- Multibrand remote adds convenience and versatility
Cons:
- Feature-laden VCR is more expensive than competing decks
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