Panasonic DVD/VCR Combination Deck: Hits a Grandslam!
Written: Aug 09 '02
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Pros: 3-in-one Home Theatre Player,
Cons: Bulky
The Bottom Line: Wonderfull product for the price and features
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| roosthui's Full Review: Panasonic PV-D4762 DVD Player / VCR Combo |
Just In Perspective...
When I saw the details for this particular model I melted. It was exactly what I wanted; A quality DVD and VCR combination for a reasonable price. Unfortunately I have already bought myself a DVD player, and have a VCR so even for the modest price I couldn't justify the cost. Instead I write this review for the world to read as an informed observer, wishing I had done things differently.
Unfortunately as with all technology DVD is subject to the laws of the universe. One of those laws seems to be that once you purchase any piece of technology it is already out of date. Instead of indefinitely holding off the big purchase I would tend to encourage anyone in this situation to dive in. As it has been said: "There is no better time than now."
Now that we all understand that we DO have to buy a DVD player to actually enjoy its function, regardless of its feature list, lets turn our attention to Panasonic for a minute or two (if you're a slow reader like me ;) reserve 5!) Specifically the Panasonic PV-D4762 DVD/VCR Combination Deck , god I love long titles. Before we get started I encourage you to check the manufacturer's page for a feature loaded guide...
http://www.prodcat.panasonic.com/shop/NewDesign/ModelTemplate.asp?ModelID=13079
Combonation Deck
The "coolest" feature of this model is that it's really like two: The VCR and the DVD player. Are all your Electronics fighting for a space on the TV stand, or do you just need something new to impress your friends with? Either way can't loose.
The only pitfall of this feature is that it ends up a bit cluttered on the box and gives the user a feeling of being bulky. Well, bulky it is. There is no way that it can compete with the new super slim DVD models. On the other hand no matter how 'slim' they may be you can't find two seperate boxes that take less space than this one. This isn't even starting with the issue of your TV having a jungle of cables behind its otherwise uncomprimising view.
DVD Features
Of first and foremost importance when buying a DVD is whether it plays DVDs. Yes, now we have a DVD player. It is important to remeber the real reason you want this: It plays DVDs and Videos, everything else is extra!. But hey, that's the most interesting part!
One neat feature that Panasonic includes is the 5 speed smooth motion scan up to 100x regular viewing speed. Remember having to mess around for ten minutes trying to back up to the 10 second part you missed. This little feature makes that a breeze. Or when trying to fast forward faster through the sex scene with kids around; well, no more naughty images!
Also featured is progressive scan and multiple viewing options. If you aren't a "technology junkie" and truly believe you are missing half the screen you can even make it go back to "normal". The only truth is you sacrifising quality and are actually missing the sides of the movie! Good luck fighting over that one.
VCR Features
As I have said with the DVD player, the most important part of the VCR is that it can reliably play tapes; and that it can! Extra: It's a 4-head Hi-Fi player with a head cleaner included. Also there is VHS tape position display to see just exactly wher you are.
Remote
Included in your package is a Universal Light Tower Illuminated Remote. Trust me you can do everything with this remote except make time itself stop before work in the morning. As gorgeous as it's player it fits in your hand with a metallic silver plastic cover.
Outputs
The whole unit is Home Theatre ready, and begging to be adopted. Straight from the features list there is Optical Ouput for Dolby Digital and DTS Composite, Component, S-Video and Digital Audio Outputs. In other words: "You got it, it can do it".
Remember how I said 3-in-one? Well, this baby can also be your stereo. It has CD, MP3, CD-R (burned CDs), and CD-RW (re-writable burned CDs) playback capability. Next time lightning strikes and you need to replace the whole stash, it's just one purchase!
Product Features List
4-Head Hi-Fi VCR Yes
Front A/V Input Yes
Composite, Component and S-Video-outs Yes
Digital Audio-Out Yes
Head Cleaner Yes
MP3/CD/CD-R/CD-RW Playback Yes
DVD High Speed, Smooth Motion Scan: 5 speeds up to x100 Yes
DVD Auto Switching Field/Frame Still Yes
Multiple DVD Viewing Options Yes
DVD Repeat Play , Skip Forward/Reverse Yes
Ready to Play Yes
VHS Tape Position Display Yes
Home Theater Ready Yes
Auto Clock Set with Backup Yes
Optical Ouput for Dolby Digital ® and dts ® Composite, Component, S-Video and Digital Audio Outputs Yes
Multi-Brand Universal Tower Remote Control Included
Trilingual On-Screen Display Yes
Progressive Scan Yes
Commercial Advance®/Movie Advance® Yes
Multi-Brand Universal Light Tower® Illuminated Remote Included
Conclusion...
This is a great unit for the price, especially if you are looking at replacing both VCR and DVD units or want the DVD but still would like to be able to play you classic tapes. Good Luck!
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 350
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Epinions.com ID:
roosthui
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Location: Aurora, Ontario, Canada
Reviews written: 48
Trusted by: 6 members
About Me:
Hey, my dream is to go to medical school, and I appreciate everyone's help.
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