Features:
- VHS hi-fi stereo
- SmartFile electronic indexing system
- Sony cable mouse
- S-Link control system
- Quasi S-VHS playback
Description:
This is an advanced VCR that may be best suited for those into heavy recording and organization. There are several advanced Sony technologies included in this feature-packed unit, including a SmartFile electronic indexing system, a cable mouse, and S-Link control system. While basic hookup is simple, navigating the extensive Guide Plus+ feature may be a bit complex for non-techies. Guide Plus+ allows you to input the program and channel guide from your cable and/or DSS system into your VCR for easy recording. Information on how to input the cable program guide is found in a 12-page chapter in the included manual. However, during our tests, it took us a few attempts before we got the channel selection guide to appear on screen. Once you get Guide Plus+ up and running, you can then record and organize taped programs through Sony's innovative SmartFile feature. The SmartFile technology codes special peel-off labels included with the unit, so that the VCR can automatically identify the recorded contents of a tape. A sensor on the front of the VCR reads the label after you insert the tape, and the VCR displays information on-screen about the contents (pulled from the Guide Plus+ technology) as well as any unused tape time. We found the picture quality to be crisp in playback mode. You can perform other functions, such as setting up the clock and playing back and recording tapes, quickly and easily from either the remote or the front of the unit. The large remote has a nice cursor ball that allows users to jump among various screen options. We found this interface much easier to use than the standard channel-up and -down buttons. The remote also has a shuttle ring that acts as a fast-forward and rewind button and that can change channels for recording. Additionally, the SLVM20HF comes with a cable mouse, which controls most brands of cable boxes and DSS receivers for recording. Front outputs allow for recording and playback from a camcorder. This unit comes with two different manuals to explain its multiple features and how they work. It's a lot of material to absorb in one sitting and takes several trials and much experimentation to fully explore and appreciate this advanced VCR. Pros:
- Multiple guides, VCR Plus+ recording option
- Large remote offers fast access to on-screen menu options
- Excellent picture
Cons:
- Too complicated for casual VCR user
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