JVC HR-XVC37U Progressive-Scan DVD/VCR Combo (Silver)

Rating:
Summary: Near Miss
Review: Nice unit. Progressive scan VHS definitely looks better! Unfortunately the player I received had a couple of defects. First, and worst, the tracking didn't work well at all. This model automatically handles video tracking adjustments (like most these days) but mine couldn't seem to get a lock. The result was periods of really impressive resolution followed by unwatchable choppiness and jitters. Manual adjustments didn't help at all. Another tape issue: ejecting tapes was only possible if I held the tape door open by hand. Otherwise tapes slammed into the back of the door and re-inserted themselves. Really surprising for JVC, the pioneering force behind VHS.

The DVD side of the player seemed to do a fine job. I'm no videophile, but in comparison to the Samsung, Toshiba, and Onkyo players I own, this one did a great job. No complaints.

Good:
+ Progressive DVD *and* VHS
+ Everything (even broadcast TV) out one set of Component cables!
+ Combo unit saves space

Bad:
- My unit had issues with the tape player
- Remote control has a slightly odd layout

3 out of 5 stars

P.S. I am exchanging this unit for the same model. I really would like this to work. Will post an update when the new one arrives.

Rating:
Summary: pleased
Review: Replaced our Sony 350 combo with this one. The Sony when playing DVDs would sometimes freeze up and after a while finally eject the DVD. The Sony also took about a minute to start up a DVD, the JVC is almost immediate. The JVC is free of the Sony's problems. It plays all our DVDs and does a better job at playing JPEGs off the computer. Only complaint is to record on VCR is awkward to have to press 2 buttons on the remote. The time record - in intervals of 30 min - you have to press the button on the unit. The combocosts $50 less than the Sony and is 50% better. Very pleased, heartily recommend.

Rating:
Summary: I'm Pleased As Well
Review: Unit arrived in just about 4 days, which I thought was very good.
Shipped from Vann's in Montana to Texas. The unit performs fine,
although I had a phase effect on the vcr playing back a few tapes
recorded on it, but seemed to clear up after I bought new tapes.
As the previous reviewer mentioned the remote is a hassle sometimes, trying to record with actually 3 buttons REC-PLAY-PAUSE. The quality with playback on the dvd unit is fabulous
will play any of my purchased and burned dvds. Good solid unit
for the price. Oh Yeah I forgot, it's nice to be able to copy
my burned dvds to the vcr, cool.