Panasonic DMR-EX85

Excellent functionality, packed with features, fantastic value

No time shift buffer, single tuner only, no HD reception

More manufacturers should be following Panasonic's example with the DMR-EX85. A truly outstanding product, the omission of a time shift buffer is the only feature preventing this unit from being a near-perfect purchase.

Picture performance ; digital tuner ; SD card slot ; video upscaling

Only one tuner ; no DivX compatibility

It's got the depth to go with its drop-dead gorgeous looks. Outstanding

250GB storage space ; Universal disc compatibility ; Upscaling video ; User-friendly functionality ; Excellent recording and playback performance

Comparatively pricey ; Poor analogue tuner

DVD playback performance is just as impressive -- especially if you're using HDMI. Although upscaled images can't claim true high-definition quality, you'll get noticeably more detail, depth and motion control from your existing DVD collection without...

HDMI output with HD upscaling; multi-format DVD recording; easy to use; very good AV quality

No EPG or editing and dubbing of other programmes while recording; no set-top box control

gut

Gut

Seems to ignore Region Coding ; Good range of functions

Some of the functions buttons seem to duplicate which makes things seem unduly complex ; Haven't yet worked out how to set regular daily, weekly, M-F, timer recording sessioons. These are vaguley referred to in the handbook but no detail is given

Ease of use ; Great picture quality ; Nice fast switching of digital channels ; Good price for a 250GB

Didn't record a box office movie from Foxtel. I recorded the 1st 5 or so minutes then cut to adverts. (Although I think this maybe from Foxtels Side)