Review on 📺 High-Performance Magnavox MDR535 HDD and DVD Recorder with SD Digital Tuner, 500GB Storage (Black) by Martin Alvarez

This DVR offers digital video recorder (DVR) functionality for over-the-air TV without the ongoing costs of cable, satellite or TiVo. The only major downside is that setting up a recording schedule is similar to old VCRs — you look up the program schedule yourself (TV Guide has a free scheduler app on your tablet or smartphone); set time and channel; and mark the recording with the remote control. This DVR seems to be as sensitive as my TV when it comes to finding and programming channels available in my area. And the DVR provides an RF antenna signal loop for the TV if your TV can receive digital TV (meaning the TV isn't much more than 10 years old). It has HDMI output, HD component outputs and even the old standard S-Video and old style analogue video as well as stereo sound and digital audio output. When watching TV using the DVR as the receiving device, you can (currently) stop, save and fast forward live video. You can use your TV to watch live video with your own tuner and record another channel with your DVR. When you record in HQ (highest quality but takes up more space on the DVR) the footage appears in HIgh Definition which to me looks about the same on my TV as it does live view. You can also use this device to record either live or from a program previously recorded on your hard drive; to a recordable DVD that can be played on a DVR or other DVD player. However, this will be a standard definition DVD, not HD. In my opinion the only real downside is that the device can actually use an ethernet connection so you can access your recordings from your computer or play videos from the internet. But for the price I'm very happy with what I have. I was so impressed that I ordered a second bedroom unit. A very minor issue is that the remote's button layout is a bit cluttered. Reliability Recommendation: I'm a retired electronics engineer. The hotter and more complex the electronics, the more likely it is that any manufacturer's device will fail. You can't help as modern electronics are complex, but you can make sure it has adequate ventilation so it doesn't overheat and die prematurely: (1) Open the back of your TV or stereo where the electronics reside with it they can get into ventilation. . I drilled 2" or 3" diameter holes to allow for ventilation - you can't see them from the front, so go ahead and put "Swiss Cheese" in the back of the cabinet. It's best to do this when your wife isn't around, and don't forget to vacuum up the shavings before she gets back. (2) Don't stack the electronics directly on top of each other - use a few 1x2 or even 1 inch pieces of wood. square metal tubing to allow at least 3/4 inch vertical clearance when stacking electronic components. Position these spacers front to back for better airflow along the edges for the legs to rest on. (3) Organize cords and wiring neatly—at least when getting in and out of the shelves that house the electronics. A bundle or two of wires allows more room for airflow in and out of the closet than a tangle of wires and cables. due to constant and regular disputes between networks and local TV stations, as well as satellite and cable companies, which during these disputes led to the loss of a beloved network station, there is a relatively simple and ultimately MUCH CHEAPER solution - I made an over-the-air antenna I installed it in my attic (with amplifier) and used the existing cable glands in the attic to power my television. This gives me all HDTV broadcast networks, plus each has 2 or 3 lower resolution channels, usually with old syndicated shows or movies. And digital television television is nothing but the old-style television television. Off air works great, no snow or noise. The HDTV network picture is actually slightly better than cable or satellite. Most of the missing programming that my wife and I enjoy on HGTV, History Channel and Discovery are available over the internet, for example on Revain Prime for free. The only remaining niche in the cable cut was on-air VCR, which doesn't require a subscription. This DVR meets this requirement perfectly! Update: After a few months of use I've noticed two minor but somewhat annoying issues: (1) When I'm watching a pre-recorded show off my hard drive and the DVR is also recording live in the show at the same time, when watching there are occasional jitters short breaks. (2) I noticed that the audio is out of sync with the video when playing the video. It wasn't obvious at first. Cut Cable: I have no regrets about cutting the cable - I save about $60 every month! I am not affiliated with Magnavox, Revain, Funai or any other company. I am a recently retired electronics engineer