DVD/VCR Combos

The Bottom Line: The inexpensive Samsung DVD-V9650 DVD/VCR combo unit has an HDMI output, a nice design, and DivX compatibility, but its soft video quality falls short of other HDMI players we've tested.

Specs: Stereo, Universal remote control, JPEG photo playback, S-VHS quasi playback, One-touch recording/playback

Editors' Take: CNET previews the Sony SLV-D570H, a DVD recorder to be released in July 2006.

Specs: Stereo, Progressive scanning

Editors' Take: CNET did not review this product, but it is similar to another product that we did review.

Specs: Surround sound, Universal remote control, JPEG photo playback, Progressive scanning, S-VHS quasi playback

The Bottom Line: Sonicblue's kit includes a host of useful features and sounds excellent on music and movies.

Specs: Surround sound, Remote control, Progressive scanning, One-touch recording/playback

The Bottom Line: If you can overlook the design and interface drawbacks, this combo deck has some nifty VCR features and progressive-scan output for owners of HD-ready TVs.

Specs: Stereo, Universal remote control, One-touch recording/playback

The Bottom Line: With a stylish look and solid performance, the XBV243 stands out from the rest of the DVD/VCR combo pack.

Specs: Stereo, Remote control, Auto eject, Auto rewind, S-VHS quasi playback, One-touch recording/playback

The Bottom Line: With a higher price and fewer features than what you'll find on competing players, you'd be better off with Samsung's DVD-V1000.

Specs: Stereo, Remote control, One-touch recording/playback

Specs: Stereo, Universal remote control, JPEG photo playback, Progressive scanning

Specs: Stereo, JPEG photo playback, Progressive scanning

Specs: Stereo, Remote control, JPEG photo playback, S-VHS quasi playback, One-touch recording/playback