[jaetee]

Any suggestions for where to get an inexpensive DVD Recorder or a DVR? Would even consider a secondhand set if it was in good working condition. I just basically need to record shows occasionally when I am out and about.

Also I was wondering where to get a good S-Video/Audio output cable for my Powerbook. I have seen the MonsterCable iTV link (S-video and audio cables) for about $400, and was wondering if that is the only one to use if I want to watch DVDs from my laptop to my TV.

Thanks muchly.

[KnowItAll]

Don't bother with Monster. Way too expensive.

Found a shop on the first floor of Wanchai Computer Center with $50 component and S-video cables. A blind test showed that there was no visible difference between the two.

http://www.devlib.org/blog/2005/12/0...v-or-xbox-360/

[discobay]

If you want a cheap DVD recorder I wouldn't bother. They are far from being stable and mature. If you can splash out the cash then go for a Sony, Panasonic or Pioneer with a hard disk. Otherwise get a VHS vcr they're dirt cheap. I would go for an S-VHS model.

[jaetee]

Any ideas where to find a cheap decent VHS? I am looking to record shows that my friend in the US can view as well - what type of VHS do I need to get so that he can view it on his NTSC machine.

TIA.

[discobay]

It's more difficult to accomodate other countries. Does he own a multi-system vcr if not then he can probably only play NTSC which means you have to record in NTSC. This is not possible with the vcrs sold here.
VCRs sold here record in a variant of PAL. They can play NTSC mostly. The higher end ones can understand an NTSC signal too.

[jaetee]

Thanks DB - I guess I have to get a DVD recorder then, no?

[discobay]

No. If your aim is to send it to your friend who can only view NTSC then you might have a problem. You might want to try looking for a parallel import "sui for" from Japan who I think use NTSC. If you can get a VHS VCR or DVD recorder that is multi-system i.e. can understand PAL and all the other systems then you can record from HK tv/NOW/cable in NTSC format and post it to your mate.

[KnowItAll]

This is what an S-video connector looks like.

On the first floor of Wanchai Comp center, take a left turn as soon as you come up the escalator. You'll pass a high end video projector store... then turn right.

Forget the name of the shop but you'll see the cables on display. A S-Video generic will cost you around $50HK

[jaetee]

KIA - thanks, I see the S-video connection, but what about audio??

DB - if I get a Japanese VCR, will it work in HK??

[ohchk2001]

Will these DVD/harddrive recorders record DVDs that can play back on any DVD players?

Does these recorders offer like a second S-video out so you could record it to a video capture card on a computer?