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Panasonic DMR-EA18K: Review

Posted to Video Components 2010-03-09

With HD up-conversion, the Panasonic DMR-EA18K DVD recorder is worth considering. Any standard definition recording, through the use of video data interpolation, can be scaled up to the 1080 x 1920 HD format video. This improves the color quality and picture sharpness on virtually any DVD.

Replacing your VCR with an affordable DVD recorder couldn't be easier. The DMR-EA18K connects with your TV (HD or non-HD) through a variety of jacks including composite (RCA), S-Video, Component or HDMI. Panasonic includes the VIERALink technology with this DVD recorder to make attachment of the device to a Panasonic Viera television easier, with TV channel data flowing automatically to the DVD recorder via a HDMI cable. An SD memory card slot and DVI/USB interface are available on the recorder to allow for connection of digital cameras to display photos or videos onto the TV.

Rating:

3.0 out of 5

Performance

DVD writing speed varies depending on the medium that is used, with fastest speeds available with DVD-R Version 2.1 discs at 1-16x speeds. Average speeds across other mediums including DVD-RW, DVD+R and DVD-+R(DL) are between 2.4x and 8x speed. Discs are recorded in DVD video formats, so a full disc burn in XP mode will take 1hour, with LP mode taking 4 hours. Dolby digital two channel provides adequate sound capture, but further enhancements could be made to capture higher HD sound outputs that are available on some digital stations.

Ergonomics

The DMR-EA18K is only available in black, so choices of color for integration into an existing home cinema design are limited. The unit operates between 41-104 degrees and weights approximately 6.16 pounds. Measurements of the unit are approximately 2.5 inches high, 16 inches wide and 9 inches deep, so it will slot into a cabinet that has space designed for a DVD player easily. Power requirements for the recorder are AC 120v, 60hz, and consumption while in operation is 25watts.

Summary

There isn't any standout feature of this DVD recorder apart from HD up-conversion that warrants a rush out and buy now recommendation. However, the price is great. No storage capabilities on the unit mean you need to burn directly to DVD, a long process if you are burning an entire disc worth of content. Good support for DVD media is included though.

Pros

Good DVD media support
Long wait for DVD production
VIERALink
No standout features
Basic recorder

Cons

There are no cons for this product

Recommended accessory:

Monster Cable MC 500HD-2M : HDMI 500hd 2 Meter Standard Speed HDMI Cable