Toshiba D-R2 Recorder Review

The Toshiba D-R2 DVD player/recorder from Toshiba combines a versatile digital video recorder with a high-end DVD player. You'll enjoy a stunningly realistic picture and warm, natural sound from your DVD library as well as programs you record. The D-R2 is a powerful addition to your home theater.

The multidrive recorders on the Toshiba D-R2 allow you to record onto DVD-R discs or rerecordable DVD-RW and DVD-RAM discs. DVD-R copies of recordings made by the D-R2 will play on almost all DVD players and DVD-compatible computers.

Toshiba's time slip playback feature allows you to watch a program that is being recorded from the beginning while the rest of the show records. You can also use the time slip feature to pause a live broadcast that you are recording, and then resume watching it from where you left it, whenever you want.

Setting up a recording is simple, and will seem comfortably familiar to VCR users. The D-R2 uses Gemstar's VCR Plus technology, which lets you select the programs you want to record by name, without having to worry about setting the right time and channel. You can schedule up to 32 different shows with this timer recording feature.

The programs that you have recorded are logged in to an adjustable menu that displays the date, time, and channel that you recorded. You will also see a still-video image of the show you recorded in the menu. You can rename the listings and create chapters within the recordings that allow you to easily skip to your favorite scenes or to dub a cleaned-up copy of the show you've recorded onto DVD. The easy-to-use menu also features a live action window that lets you monitor the program you are currently recording or playing.

In addition to high-quality recordings, you'll get the most out of your DVD library. The D-R2 utilizes Toshiba's ColorStream Pro progressive-scan video technology to yield vivid colors, clean resolution, and reduced onscreen distortion. Digital cinema progressive scanning, or 3:2 pulldown, reproduces your DVDs in theaterlike clarity. While the Toshiba D-R2 is compatible with both analog and digital televisions, you will get the optimum effect by linking the player with a high-definition-compatible television.

In addition to playing a full range of DVDs, the D-R2 plays CDs and MP3 audio files, so you can enjoy your favorite music. You can also view digital JPEG photos from CDs created in your computer with the D-R2.

The Toshiba D-R2 features rear-panel composite audio and video inputs, and RCA inputs on the front panel to connect your camcorder for dubbing onto DVD. An additional digital IEEE1394 FireWire jack is included on the front panel for an instant connection with digital camcorders. The FireWire connection automatically synchs up with your camcorder and creates a customized onscreen menu for dubbing.

What's in the Box?

What Features Does the Toshiba D-R2 Have?

• Progressive scan: Yes

• Playback formats: DVD, CD, VCD, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD-RW, CD-R, CD-RW, WMA, MP3, and JPEG

• Integrated amplifier: No

• Integrated receiver: No

• Front-panel operation: Yes

• Multi-angle viewing: No

• Black-level adjustment: Yes

• Chapter preview: Yes

• Custom bookmarks: Yes

• Frame advance: Yes

• Still/freeze frame: Yes

• Jog/shuttle dial on unit: No

• Karaoke: No

• Parental controls: Yes

• Play exchange: No

• Recording capability: Yes

• Resume play: Yes

• Reverse-frame step: No

• Slow motion: Yes

• Text display: Yes

• VCR capability: No

• Audio outputs: 1 analog, 1 optical

• Headphone jack: Information not available

• Video outputs: 1 S-video, 1 RCA-video, 1 Y out

• Surround-sound output or Virtual surround sound: Yes

• THX-certified: No

• Item width: 16.93 inches

• Item height: 2.72 inches

• Item depth: 12.56 inches

• Warranty: 1 year parts, 90 days labor

Conclusion

Note:

Best DVD Recorder Reviews Rating

6.5/10

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Toshiba D-R2 Recorder Review
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