Rating: 
Summary: Simple Operation with S-Video TV
Review: This unit features S-Video inputs along with the usual composite inputs on both the front and back panel. The output also includes S-Video. There are component and digital outputs, but these only work with the DVD. The ability to play VHS on the S-Video output is an unusual feature, and was the reason I purchased this unit. So far I am delighted.Unlike a DVD, VHS video is a composite signal. To convert it to the separate signals required by S-Video requires an expensive "comb filter". Comb filters are generally omitted from VCR's and A/V receivers because of their cost, and because they are critical to picture quality. So I used to run both S-Video and composite video to my TV and switch channels on the TV. My new setup has S-Video from satellite TV to the JVC, and S-Video to the TV. I never touch the TV and don't need its remote because the JVC remote controls its power and volume. To play a DVD or VHS I just push "play". If I do neither, I get TV. Everything just works. I do have a slight complaint. When I plugged everything in, I got sound but no picture. It turns out that you must choose between composite or S-Video inputs via a menu selection. I feel this should have been explained on page 15 of the manual where it describes S-Video connections. If you have this problem, refer to page 79, and choose S-Video for the rear input. The feature set seems very extensive to me. In particular the unit displays JPEG images and plays WMA and MP3 audio from regular CD-R's. But I find I seldom use fancy features. Sound and picture quality are excellent. In summary, this is the unit to buy if you have a TV with S-Video inputs, or an A/V receiver lacking a comb filter or fancy switching. If you are running composite video or (gasp) RF, the extra money for this unit will be wasted.
Rating:
Summary: Simple Operation with S-Video TV
Review: This unit features S-Video inputs along with the usual composite inputs on both the front and back panel. The output also includes S-Video. There are component and digital outputs, but these only work with the DVD. The ability to play VHS on the S-Video output is an unusual feature, and was the reason I purchased this unit. So far I am delighted. Unlike a DVD, VHS video is a composite signal. To convert it to the separate signals required by S-Video requires an expensive "comb filter". Comb filters are generally omitted from VCR's and A/V receivers because of their cost, and because they are critical to picture quality. So I used to run both S-Video and composite video to my TV and switch channels on the TV. My new setup has S-Video from satellite TV to the JVC, and S-Video to the TV. I never touch the TV and don't need its remote because the JVC remote controls its power and volume. To play a DVD or VHS I just push "play". If I do neither, I get TV. Everything just works. I do have a slight complaint. When I plugged everything in, I got sound but no picture. It turns out that you must choose between composite or S-Video inputs via a menu selection. I feel this should have been explained on page 15 of the manual where it describes S-Video connections. If you have this problem, refer to page 79, and choose S-Video for the rear input. The feature set seems very extensive to me. In particular the unit displays JPEG images and plays WMA and MP3 audio from regular CD-R's. But I find I seldom use fancy features. Sound and picture quality are excellent. In summary, this is the unit to buy if you have a TV with S-Video inputs, or an A/V receiver lacking a comb filter or fancy switching. If you are running composite video or (gasp) RF, the extra money for this unit will be wasted.
Rating: 
Summary: This is junk...avoid
Review: We had this player for 11 months, and used it very lightly.
Suddenly it wouldn't eject a tape, and the authorized service center wanted $65 to fix it (only has a 90-day warranty on labor). Looks like we'll have a DVD-only player now.
My previous Panasonic VCR ran for over 10 years and one head replacement. This JVC combo product is a disappointment--I'd give it zero stars if possible.
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