The unit encodes and stores video information in the MPEG2 encoding format using hybrid VBR (Variable Bit Rate), which ensures superb picture quality by merging two earlier encoding technologies: Real Time VBR and Visibility Modulation Technology.
What it means for you is cool features like video noise reduction for actually improving upon the images coming off your VHS tapes. You get three record modes: XP (60 min.), SP (120 min.), and LP (240 min.); recording quality diminishes slightly as compression levels rise with the longer record times. Chapter search eliminates blind, tedious tape scanning.
If you're playing a finished recording, Direct Navigator lets you find a desired program quickly, and even if you're playing a disc in progress, the DMR-E10 will find blank recording space in a snap and play your most recent recording immediately.
The DMR-E10 functions as a full-featured DVD player, as well, with high-end progressive-scan video outputs and Dolby Digital and DTS surround-sound output (for use with a surround-decoding receiver) and Dolby Digital decoding (for use with a receiver with 5.1-channel analog inputs).
Progressive scanning (480P) output renders seamless, true-to-film picture playback of DVD movie discs (from discs with 24-frame-rate film source material), and virtual-battery operation uses an internal rechargeable battery to power the DMR-E10 during use, eliminating video- and audio-degrading AC power "noise" and recharging itself after hours.
A headphone jack is a welcome touch, and V.S.S. virtual surround provides enveloping sound even through headphones. Advanced V.S.S. also delivers a remarkable surround-sound effect while using only your front two speakers.
Chapter search helps you refresh your memory when you have only watched part of a movie and are viewing it again at a later time, and high-speed smooth-motion scan allows crystal-clear scan quality while locating desired locations on a disc.
Other features include a backlit universal remote control, a jog/shuttle dial, timer recording with VCR Plus+, five-year clock backup, one-touch recording, and compatibility with video CDs.
Two potential drawbacks to note: 1) the unit is not designed to play CD-R or CD-RW discs, whether audio- or MP3-encoded; and 2) the machine compresses all audio recordings with Dolby Digital 2.0 (which is MP3-like in nature). CD-quality PCM audio recording is not possible on this unit. You do get an audio meter, however, to help you maximize the bits allotted.
Video recording and home-theater-quality DVD playback are the priorities here, and that's where this piece excels.
Read a more detailed account of the features.
Model Brand TOSHIBA Model DR430 Type Type DVD Recorder Spec
DVD-R (Video Mode)/DVD+R (Video Mode)/DVD-RW (VR Video Mode)/DVD+RW (VR Mode) Video Formats: DVD Video / Video CD
Audio Formats: MP3 / LPCM / WMA / Audio CD
Image Formats: JPEG / JPEG Photo CDConnectors Component Out x 1
HDMI Out with HDMI-CEC x 1
Rear S-Video Input/Output x 1
Rear RCA-Video Input/Output x 1
Front Audio Input x 1
Rear Analog Audio Input/Output x 1
Coaxial Digital Audio Output x 1
Front DV Input x 1
Front USB Port x 1Video Audio D/A Converter: 192kHz/24-Bit
MP3 Playback: Yes
Dolby Digital Recording (2-Ch): Yes
L-PCM Recording XP: mode only
3D (Virtual Surround Sound): YesDimensions Weigh 16.54" x 2.32" x 10.20" (WxHxD) / 4.84 lbs Connector S-Video/HDMI Native Resolution 1080p
