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Panasonic DMR-EZ28K Review

Posted to Video Components 2009-05-31

If you are in the market for a DVD player that has recording capabilities, then the Panasonic DMR-EZ28K DVD recorder may be for you. This progressive scan recorder features an integrated ATSC/NTSC tuner, HDMI port, SD memory card slot, USB terminal, 1080p up-convert, and VIERALink compatibility. Though not the best in the lineup, it performs well with playback and recording. There are a few cons to owning this model, but all in all, you should still consider it.

The Panasonic DMR-EZ28K DVD recorder is 2.4-" x 16.9-" x 9.7-" in dimensions and weighs a comfortable 6.16 lbs. One particularly popular feature on this model is the hybrid digital tuner, which allows you to record both analog and digital TV shows to a DVD. Aside from the integrated tuner, another exciting feature is the 1080p up-conversion. This function automatically converts your standard definition DVDs into 1920 x 1080 resolutions for optimal HDTV viewing experience. This model also has an array of ports that comes standard with DVD recorders. Overall, it is decent for the price.

Rating:

out of 5

Value

As far as value goes in this product, there is much to be disputed. Although this model falls into the "middle of the market-" category, it lacks features that cheaper DVD recorders possess. Several competitors offer less-expensive models with hybrid digital tuners that record to both DVD and VHS. Something else that may annoy users is the lack of a volume button on the recorder's remote. Panasonic removed this feature to make room for other buttons. Another frustration is that the device occasionally freezes and users have to reset it to get it working again.

Features

Naturally, this DVD recorder reads virtually all CD and DVD formats and writes DVDs. The coolest feature is the integrated hybrid digital tuner, which allows you to do more than a regular DVR. Instead of just watching, now you can put your favorite shows onto DVD. Something else unique is the VIERALink function, which allows seamless integration of your VIERA-compatible TV channels with the DVD recorder. The HDMI port and1080 up-convert features are nice touches but have become common on most DVD recorders. As mentioned earlier, the Panasonic DMR-EZ28K comes with an array of ports: Component, DV Input, S-Video Input and Output, Video Input and Output, Audio Input and Output, Optical-Out, USB terminal, SD card slot, and of course HDMI. Nicely loaded, but again, these are mostly standard features.

Summary

If you are a big fan of Panasonic, then you may want to give the Panasonic DMR-EZ28K DVD recorder a try. It provides a pleasant entertainment experience for DVD viewing and recording, and the product is backed by a trusted manufacturer. It has its faults and benefits, however, so you should purchase based on your needs and opinions. Overall, though, this DVD recorder does not impress like its price suggests it should. If it had VHS capabilities too, then the price might be justified (see DMR-EZ48VK)

Pros

Hybrid digital tuner records analog and digital programming
Watch slideshows or listen to music from SD memory card or USB drive
VIERALink feature for seamless integration with a compatible TV
1080p up-conversion to make the most out of your standard-definition DVDs

Cons

Does not play MP3