Features:
- Hi-fi stereo with MTS decoder
- VCR Plus+ with Cable Eye cable box controller
- Front and rear audio-video inputs
- S-VHS quasi playback
- Full-function remote control
Description:
JVC's HR-VP770U is a clear-cut, above-entry-level VCR in both performance and price. This four-head, hi-fi model delivers upscale sound and image quality at a substantial discount from today's high-end models. Far from a no-frills deck, this machine offers a welcome assortment of convenience features. The handsome front panel includes a second video and stereo audio input for quick connection of a camcorder, and a versatile jog-shuttle control that allows viewing at up to seven times normal speed, in either forward or reverse. An external cable box controller enables the HR-VP770U remote handset to also operate a cable or satellite tuning box, thereby simplifying system operation. An elaborate network of onscreen displays and menus facilitates manual override of virtually every conceivable function, from recording to video calibration (which compensates for poor tape quality) to picture adjustment. There's even a tape-position indicator that's user defeatable and displays the current position of the tape relative to its beginning or end. And of course, JVC has included VCR Plus+ for one-step recording of programs found in your local listings. Despite this wealth of features, the HR-VP770U's strong suit is performance. Simply put, this machine delivers the best picture quality of any of the traditional VCRs (that is, VCRs that aren't S-VHS) we've seen. Colors are rich and vibrant, but even more impressive is the nearly perfect balance between red, green, and blue. Flesh tones are natural and neither too warm (red) nor jaundiced (yellow). Color dynamics--the difference between pure white and pure black--are equally impressive. Blacks are true black, not deep navy, while whites are free of color bleed. Detail resolution is also very good, at least by VCR standards, as the HR-VP770U brings into focus small background objects that would remain blurry on many VCRs. Finally, special effects (i.e., fast play and reverse) are totally free of the horizontal white bars which, with most machines, reside near the top and bottom of the screen; still images are virtually free of motion or jitter. We were also quite taken with the HR-VP770U's sound quality. While clearly not up to the standards of DVD and CD software, this VCR offers a balanced tonal presentation with crisp, clear highs; an informative midrange that flatters dialogue; and deep, powerful bass that seems perfectly suited to the demands of action blockbusters. The HR-VP770U conveys both stereo and Pro Logic tapes with the panoramic, enveloping soundstages that truly bring the theaterlike movie experience home. The only real problems with this machine are those of omission. One minor inconvenience is that jog-shuttle controls are absent on the remote, which means that you can only access them from the faceplate. The handset also lacks backlighting--a feature found on many less expensive players that makes it easier to operate your VCR in a darkened room. Still, if you're looking to add a low-priced VCR to a high-end home theater, you won't find better sound and image quality--or better value--than JVC's HR-VP770U. --Anthony Chiarella Pros:
- Superb image quality and special effects to flatter the finest home theaters
- Impressive stereo and Pro Logic surround sound
- Unusually versatile onscreen menus and comprehensive owner's manual
Cons:
- No backlight or jog-shuttle dial on remote control
| 
