Sony RDR-HXD870

I really like the Sony RDR-HXD870.

It took a few attempts and a bit of head scratching over the manual before I could get it set up as I wanted it. I don't have access to Freeview, and the instructions seemed very much to be biased towards use as a freeview machine.

Once I had it set up as I wanted it, I found it to be excellent. The one major problem I have is with watching everything I've recorded. Quality at HQ+ is tremendous. Quality at HQ is fine for most things, and it certainly means that I can fill the disc very full indeed.

Linking the unit with my set top box took a couple of failed attempts before I could work it out - and, bizarrely, the settings all changed after a brief session with a PlayStation. This shouldn't have affected anything, but it did. The problem was sorted, however, with the excellent assistance of the Sony UK helpline. They insisted on providing their help live (so to speak) with me following their instructions as they talked me through it. Well worth it, though.

And the machine would have been well worth the full price, let alone the reduced price I paid by buying it on eBay. A bargain twice over.

I have been using this machine solidly for nearly a year now. I have no hesitation in recommending it.

A good quality product that works efficiently.