This is a great unit. I saw them at Walmart at the end of last year, and they were about $200.00. NOW, they are gaining in popularity somehow, because they're now $248.00. I am trying to find the model that is a step up that has a hard drive built-in that holds 500gb of storage. Walmart USED to sell that model last year, and now they are out of them, except for one refurbished one. I am also looking online for places that may sell that unit.
The Magnavox MDR513H/F unit that I own and that was reviewed in this video does have an HD tuner. For confirmation, you can visit the Magnavox website and review the PDF manual for this unit. Also, it is able to up convert to both 1080i and 1080p.
@tacomatc1 I have NEWS for YOU, the Magnavox MDR513 and MDR515H HDD recorders have an ATSC digital tuner built inside them, and can record over the air HD signals on the hard drive. End of Story!!
This recorder has a built-in HD TV tuner which means it can receive over-the-air (free) HD broadcasts. You will need an antenna, although a standard one will work fine. You won't need one that is specially advertised as an "HD" antenna. I suspect they are all the same. If you purchase this recorder, I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. I have mine programmed to record shows almost every night.
I wanted to purchase this DVD recorder. I have a question, does this come with a digital converter. I will not have cable. Also, do I need an antenna?
@Squanbrom0314 The setup you describe is accurate. If you are using RCA cables (yellow, white, red), from your Cable Box to the DVR, set the DVR to record from L1. To watch the recorded show from the DVR onto your TV, connect cables from the DVR's video out to your TV and set the TV to the appropriate video source (i.e., L1, or L2, etc...). This setup will also allow you to watch your cable box shows without recording them first (i.e., passing thru the DVR). Hope this helps.
I gave you a thumb down because your reason of getting a dvd recorder makes no sense.. If you don't want to worry about dvd's or anything why not just get a DVR? Makes a whole lot more sense..
@RejectedManiac This is a DVR & DVD-recorder combined. The magnavox makes sense over other DVRs currently on the market because it can record to its internal hard drive without needing a monthly subscription service from a Tivo or a cable company, especially if you're happy with over-the-air broadcast and don't have cable. At an estimated $20 a month for Tivo recording service, this magnavox pays for itself in a year.
i recorded on a dvd but when i try to play it on a laptop or dvd player it wount play, like if it was blank, but on the dvd recorder it does do you know what am doing wrong ?
@9grande To watch the DVD on other players, you need to "finalize" the disc. It is under Setup --> Disc Edit --> Finalize. The more blank space remaining on your disc, the longer it will take to finalize. After a disc has been finalized, no more content can be added to it. You can also "auto-finalize" by going to Setup --> General Setting --> Auto-Finalize --> Choose either when the disc is full or at the end of timer recording, and select "On" for it to automatically finalize your discs.
@Automatic476 I haven't tried it since I don't have an xbox. The recorder accepts antenna (coaxial), RCA, and S-Video for input. Assuming the xbox has these for outputs and doesn't put any sort of copyright technology on their output jacks, it "should" work fine. Just be aware you'll be recording in Standard Definition because of the jacks. I just did a quick google search on this topic and others say it can work. Good luck!
@BrentAudi At first, I thought I would edit and transfer my recordings to DVD. But I end up recording so much on the hard drive that I now just watch it and delete it afterwards. I did experiment with the edit features. It's easy and basic. In edit / Scene Delete mode, the video plays forward. When you select "Start, it will begin highlighting the video. When the commercials ends, select "End". If you're happy with your selection, select "Delete" to remove that video portion.
Minor Update: Just realized that the recorder is able to record to the hard drive and allows you to view a different recording simultaneously. Discovered this by accident, in the past I didn't want to risk it. Forward and rewind scanning seemed a tad slower while it was recording, but the important thing is that it was able to record one episode while viewing another. :)
This review was extremely helpful. I had the question if I could record directly to a DVD rather than just the HD, you answered that question. No where in the specs did that it give that info. Plus as you mentioned, reading the manual is more complicated than actually setting up the machine. Thank you again.
Minor update: I had a power outage that lasted about 1 hour a few weeks ago. At the time, my Magnavox was on and recording. No other AV equipment was on. After the power came back, all of my other home theater equipment was fine except the Magnavox. It wouldn't power up. The good news, after leaving it unplugged for about 30 minutes, I plugged the Magnavox back in and it powered up and worked fine since then. Happy ending. :)
Great recap of the product! Hope you might answer or comment. I got the Magnavox MDR513H and thought I could input the cable line and the tuner inside the unit would act as a converter so I wouldn't need to have the cable converter box on at the same time. I tried all 3 channel set ups (Ant, Cable Ano, Dig) and I only see the local over air 12.1 type channels instead of like 169 for Nat Geo. Anyway to set up to convert cable input for all cable channels or do I have to have the box?
@MissSleepyMia I only use over-the-air broadcast, so I'm not completely sure, but I'd guess the internal tuner will only handle air broadcasts. You'll still have to use your own converter box to feed the signal into the recorder. This means that your converter must be pre-set to the correct channel when you record. If you find out otherwise, please let me know.
hi, thanks for sharing your experience with the unit. i was thinking about getting one but i'm a little afraid after watching a video of someone using it and kept freezing and loosing picture/audio. i don't know what cable or satellite provider your with but i also read where comcast and time warner doesn't recognize the unit through them since they want you to use tivo. just what to know if you're having any draw backs as of late since making this video.
@cuzitsnecessary So far I haven't run across any problems with my unit. I use over-the-air HD broadcast in my area and the only "problem" is when strong storms affect the reception. It looks like it can also record from RCA video and S-video. I'm not familiar with comcast but I would hazard a guess that RCA video is too old to support such copy-right protections? If it works, then the only bad thing is you're limited to is SD quality due to the older type video connection.
@cuzitsnecessary Before getting this unit, I did a lot of reading on an audio/video forum and many hardcore enthusiasts stood by this unit which made me decide to try it. I can't promise you'd be perfectly happy with it, just letting you know that it's worked for me fine so far. If I encounter any problems with it in the future, I'll post it in a comment on this page or do a follow-up video. Best of luck and feel free to post any comments or questions I might be able to help answer.
@VVWEtitantrons I assume you mean to set a programmed timed recording but have the source be something other than an over-the-air broadcast channel? Not sure, I haven't done it before but I would think so... let me get back to you.
@VVWEtitantrons I looked through the settings and it appears you can set up a line-in recording through the timer. However, it like it's limited to RCA video/audio or S-video. Hope this helps.
@88hfit88 Thank you so much! That takes a huge amount of uncertainty off my shoulders now.
Just so you know, your review is the reason why I went ahead and ordered this HDD DVD recorder. You discussed most of the key feature very well, and I deiced that I need this. I currently have just a DVD recorder, and changing discs to make sure there's room right before the show airs is a real pain. This device seems to get rid of the annoyance! :)
@VVWEtitantrons Wow, sincere thanks for your comments, that makes a big different for me. Now I feel pretty energized to do more reviews. I hope you enjoy your new recorder!
@xwishmasterx2 I haven't tried it, but I remember reading on avsforum dot com that people have replaced the hard drive by themselves. I don't think it allows hard drives to be connected like a chain, though.
@VVWEtitantrons If you record to DVD disc, it will record in standard definition. However, if you record to the hard drive, you can set the quality level up to HD quality. Your second question . . . you can set the timer to record different channels (at different times) and the unit will automatically change channels accordingly to record. Feel free to post any other questions and I'll try to answer them.
@88hfit88 Thanks so much for your help! I got another set of questions. You are able to record HD video through the component and HDMI connections on the device? Is it just for the output, rather than recording? Also, can you record through an HDMI cable, but not have it record in HD, or at least record from a HDMI cable and have it sent to a DVD-R? Also, is it possible to record in HD to the hard drive, and then later transfer the HD recording from the HDD to a DVD-R, but in non HD quality?
@VVWEtitantrons For input, you have the option of RCA video, S-Video, Antenna, and digital video (ie, 4-pin firewire). Component and HDMI is only for output. Basically, the only way to get HD video into the recorder is via the antenna (HD over the air broadcast, for example) or via the digital video port. I haven't tried the DV port yet. No matter how you input the video, it can be recorded onto a DVD-R but only in DVD quality. Hope this helps.
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This is a great unit. I saw them at Walmart at the end of last year, and they were about $200.00. NOW, they are gaining in popularity somehow, because they're now $248.00. I am trying to find the model that is a step up that has a hard drive built-in that holds 500gb of storage. Walmart USED to sell that model last year, and now they are out of them, except for one refurbished one. I am also looking online for places that may sell that unit.
purseonal2010 3 days ago
Comment removed
purseonal2010 3 days ago
The Magnavox MDR513H/F unit that I own and that was reviewed in this video does have an HD tuner. For confirmation, you can visit the Magnavox website and review the PDF manual for this unit. Also, it is able to up convert to both 1080i and 1080p.
88hfit88 4 weeks ago
THIS UNIT DOES NOT HAVE AN HD TUNER. BUT IT DOES UP-CONVERT TO 1080I
tacomatc1 1 month ago
@tacomatc1 I have NEWS for YOU, the Magnavox MDR513 and MDR515H HDD recorders have an ATSC digital tuner built inside them, and can record over the air HD signals on the hard drive. End of Story!!
hailherrosner 6 days ago
This recorder has a built-in HD TV tuner which means it can receive over-the-air (free) HD broadcasts. You will need an antenna, although a standard one will work fine. You won't need one that is specially advertised as an "HD" antenna. I suspect they are all the same. If you purchase this recorder, I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. I have mine programmed to record shows almost every night.
88hfit88 1 month ago
I wanted to purchase this DVD recorder. I have a question, does this come with a digital converter. I will not have cable. Also, do I need an antenna?
aneurauter 1 month ago
How does the setup with a cable box work? Wall jack > Cable Box> DVR> TV? and do you
use the DTV do record and not L1? because L1 is the only source that displays my channels.
thanks for your time!
Squanbrom0314 2 months ago
@Squanbrom0314 The setup you describe is accurate. If you are using RCA cables (yellow, white, red), from your Cable Box to the DVR, set the DVR to record from L1. To watch the recorded show from the DVR onto your TV, connect cables from the DVR's video out to your TV and set the TV to the appropriate video source (i.e., L1, or L2, etc...). This setup will also allow you to watch your cable box shows without recording them first (i.e., passing thru the DVR). Hope this helps.
88hfit88 2 months ago
@88hfit88 This helped alot thank, this set up works great!
Squanbrom0314 1 month ago
@Squanbrom0314
ttimgents 1 month ago
I gave you a thumb down because your reason of getting a dvd recorder makes no sense.. If you don't want to worry about dvd's or anything why not just get a DVR? Makes a whole lot more sense..
RejectedManiac 2 months ago
@RejectedManiac This is a DVR & DVD-recorder combined. The magnavox makes sense over other DVRs currently on the market because it can record to its internal hard drive without needing a monthly subscription service from a Tivo or a cable company, especially if you're happy with over-the-air broadcast and don't have cable. At an estimated $20 a month for Tivo recording service, this magnavox pays for itself in a year.
88hfit88 2 months ago
i recorded on a dvd but when i try to play it on a laptop or dvd player it wount play, like if it was blank, but on the dvd recorder it does do you know what am doing wrong ?
9grande 2 months ago
@9grande To watch the DVD on other players, you need to "finalize" the disc. It is under Setup --> Disc Edit --> Finalize. The more blank space remaining on your disc, the longer it will take to finalize. After a disc has been finalized, no more content can be added to it. You can also "auto-finalize" by going to Setup --> General Setting --> Auto-Finalize --> Choose either when the disc is full or at the end of timer recording, and select "On" for it to automatically finalize your discs.
88hfit88 2 months ago
does this record off an xbox 360?
Automatic476 2 months ago
@Automatic476 I haven't tried it since I don't have an xbox. The recorder accepts antenna (coaxial), RCA, and S-Video for input. Assuming the xbox has these for outputs and doesn't put any sort of copyright technology on their output jacks, it "should" work fine. Just be aware you'll be recording in Standard Definition because of the jacks. I just did a quick google search on this topic and others say it can work. Good luck!
88hfit88 2 months ago
@88hfit88 thx
Automatic476 2 months ago
Great Review! Thanks!
Have you used it to edit out commercials before dumping it to the DVD? If so, how easy was it.
Looking to get one as a Christmas gift to myself.
Thanks again for your review!
Brent
BrentAudi 3 months ago
@BrentAudi At first, I thought I would edit and transfer my recordings to DVD. But I end up recording so much on the hard drive that I now just watch it and delete it afterwards. I did experiment with the edit features. It's easy and basic. In edit / Scene Delete mode, the video plays forward. When you select "Start, it will begin highlighting the video. When the commercials ends, select "End". If you're happy with your selection, select "Delete" to remove that video portion.
88hfit88 3 months ago
@88hfit88 Thanks for the explanation! Sounds very easy!
Brent
BrentAudi 2 months ago
Minor Update: Just realized that the recorder is able to record to the hard drive and allows you to view a different recording simultaneously. Discovered this by accident, in the past I didn't want to risk it. Forward and rewind scanning seemed a tad slower while it was recording, but the important thing is that it was able to record one episode while viewing another. :)
88hfit88 3 months ago
Comment removed
giftingngiving 3 months ago
This review was extremely helpful. I had the question if I could record directly to a DVD rather than just the HD, you answered that question. No where in the specs did that it give that info. Plus as you mentioned, reading the manual is more complicated than actually setting up the machine. Thank you again.
Ken Furia
pleasing124@yahoo.com
330-948-2791 or cell 330-350-1112
pleasing124 3 months ago
@pleasing124 Glad to hear this review was useful. Hope you enjoy the recorder!
88hfit88 3 months ago
Minor update: I had a power outage that lasted about 1 hour a few weeks ago. At the time, my Magnavox was on and recording. No other AV equipment was on. After the power came back, all of my other home theater equipment was fine except the Magnavox. It wouldn't power up. The good news, after leaving it unplugged for about 30 minutes, I plugged the Magnavox back in and it powered up and worked fine since then. Happy ending. :)
88hfit88 4 months ago
Great recap of the product! Hope you might answer or comment. I got the Magnavox MDR513H and thought I could input the cable line and the tuner inside the unit would act as a converter so I wouldn't need to have the cable converter box on at the same time. I tried all 3 channel set ups (Ant, Cable Ano, Dig) and I only see the local over air 12.1 type channels instead of like 169 for Nat Geo. Anyway to set up to convert cable input for all cable channels or do I have to have the box?
MissSleepyMia 5 months ago
@MissSleepyMia I only use over-the-air broadcast, so I'm not completely sure, but I'd guess the internal tuner will only handle air broadcasts. You'll still have to use your own converter box to feed the signal into the recorder. This means that your converter must be pre-set to the correct channel when you record. If you find out otherwise, please let me know.
88hfit88 5 months ago
hi, thanks for sharing your experience with the unit. i was thinking about getting one but i'm a little afraid after watching a video of someone using it and kept freezing and loosing picture/audio. i don't know what cable or satellite provider your with but i also read where comcast and time warner doesn't recognize the unit through them since they want you to use tivo. just what to know if you're having any draw backs as of late since making this video.
cuzitsnecessary 6 months ago
@cuzitsnecessary So far I haven't run across any problems with my unit. I use over-the-air HD broadcast in my area and the only "problem" is when strong storms affect the reception. It looks like it can also record from RCA video and S-video. I'm not familiar with comcast but I would hazard a guess that RCA video is too old to support such copy-right protections? If it works, then the only bad thing is you're limited to is SD quality due to the older type video connection.
88hfit88 6 months ago
@88hfit88 Thanks!
cuzitsnecessary 6 months ago
@cuzitsnecessary Before getting this unit, I did a lot of reading on an audio/video forum and many hardcore enthusiasts stood by this unit which made me decide to try it. I can't promise you'd be perfectly happy with it, just letting you know that it's worked for me fine so far. If I encounter any problems with it in the future, I'll post it in a comment on this page or do a follow-up video. Best of luck and feel free to post any comments or questions I might be able to help answer.
88hfit88 6 months ago
Okay, I went ahead and ordered this recorder. My last question is, are you able to setup scheduled recordings through a line-in connection
VVWEtitantrons 6 months ago
@VVWEtitantrons I assume you mean to set a programmed timed recording but have the source be something other than an over-the-air broadcast channel? Not sure, I haven't done it before but I would think so... let me get back to you.
88hfit88 6 months ago
@88hfit88 Yes, that's exactly what I want to do. Thanks for taking the time to check it out for me! :)
VVWEtitantrons 6 months ago
@VVWEtitantrons I looked through the settings and it appears you can set up a line-in recording through the timer. However, it like it's limited to RCA video/audio or S-video. Hope this helps.
88hfit88 6 months ago
@88hfit88 Thank you so much! That takes a huge amount of uncertainty off my shoulders now.
Just so you know, your review is the reason why I went ahead and ordered this HDD DVD recorder. You discussed most of the key feature very well, and I deiced that I need this. I currently have just a DVD recorder, and changing discs to make sure there's room right before the show airs is a real pain. This device seems to get rid of the annoyance! :)
VVWEtitantrons 6 months ago
@VVWEtitantrons Wow, sincere thanks for your comments, that makes a big different for me. Now I feel pretty energized to do more reviews. I hope you enjoy your new recorder!
88hfit88 6 months ago
Can you change the hard drive or connect them like a chain?
xwishmasterx2 7 months ago
@xwishmasterx2 I haven't tried it, but I remember reading on avsforum dot com that people have replaced the hard drive by themselves. I don't think it allows hard drives to be connected like a chain, though.
88hfit88 7 months ago
I had one question, does this DVD recorder record in high definition?
Also, will it automatically tune to the correct channel if I have it setup to record something?
VVWEtitantrons 7 months ago
@VVWEtitantrons If you record to DVD disc, it will record in standard definition. However, if you record to the hard drive, you can set the quality level up to HD quality. Your second question . . . you can set the timer to record different channels (at different times) and the unit will automatically change channels accordingly to record. Feel free to post any other questions and I'll try to answer them.
88hfit88 7 months ago
@88hfit88 Thanks so much for your help! I got another set of questions. You are able to record HD video through the component and HDMI connections on the device? Is it just for the output, rather than recording? Also, can you record through an HDMI cable, but not have it record in HD, or at least record from a HDMI cable and have it sent to a DVD-R? Also, is it possible to record in HD to the hard drive, and then later transfer the HD recording from the HDD to a DVD-R, but in non HD quality?
VVWEtitantrons 7 months ago
@VVWEtitantrons For input, you have the option of RCA video, S-Video, Antenna, and digital video (ie, 4-pin firewire). Component and HDMI is only for output. Basically, the only way to get HD video into the recorder is via the antenna (HD over the air broadcast, for example) or via the digital video port. I haven't tried the DV port yet. No matter how you input the video, it can be recorded onto a DVD-R but only in DVD quality. Hope this helps.
88hfit88 7 months ago
I just got mine yesterday. SP the best mode!
MrUinfo 7 months ago
oooh boy i can't way to buy this :)
StumbleAudioJazz 8 months ago
@StumbleAudioJazz Been happy with it so far and no problems yet.
88hfit88 8 months ago
Comment removed
StumbleAudioJazz 8 months ago
Thank You =D
StumbleAudioJazz 8 months ago
Is a computer talking?
MrUinfo 8 months ago
Warp Speed Mr Sulu...
exactdigital 8 months ago