LG RC797T DVD/VHS Recorder: Disappointing Features with Inflated Price

Although the prices of many DVD/VHS recorders are dropping their prices, there are still many that have not. The reason that some of them are holding firm with expensive price tags is because they must have a built in digital ATSC tuner as well as an analog TV tuner. Considering the expensive pricing of these devices, they should at least have extra features that make them well worth their cost. The LG RC797T will leave consumers feeling cheated and disappointed. It does not have an electronic programming guide when using the ATSC program data and images are not displayed in high definition.

The LG RC797T has a list of drawbacks that make it an unworthy buy. The lack of LP recording mode and S-Video input will leave many consumers craving more. There is an included IR blaster if you would like to control your satellite or cable box for timer recording. However, most consumers already own a Digital Video Recorder that is capable of completing this task. The overall design of this device is very dull and plain looking. It does not have the same sleek or compact design that many other DVD recorders possess. The included remote control is not user friendly, but it is somewhat usable for basic navigation. Many of the buttons are extremely small and feel cramped for the average user. You will find yourself pecking and hunting for the correct buttons to select.

It is easy to get lost while going through menu navigation on the LG RC797T. The Easy menu works well for dubbing VHS to DVD, but the other options are too confusing to go through. Operating the interface can become a hassle at times, because there are too many menu choices hidden within other menu choices. Most consumers prefer simple interfaces that allow you to find what you need in an instant. Having to search for these basic functions can prove to be tiring and aggravating. The higher you pay for a consumer gadget, the more user friendly it should be.

The video quality of the LG RC797T will appear very degraded in many instances. The fact that it does not have a high definition tuner can be easily seen when viewing some images. Although many shows still broadcast over standard definition, it still would have been a nice feature to have. The recording quality of programs using the ATSC tuner is about average and it will not produce some of the best recordings available. DVD playback on this unit are extremely disappointing. Some videos will appear jagged and fuzzy. If you have been searching for a well functioning upscaling DVD player, then please look elsewhere.

The inflated pricing of the LG RC797T and the horrible video quality make this product a unworthy. There are too many issues and flaws to justify adding it to your gadget collection. Don't settle for a product that will leave you craving better features and a user friendly interface. There are so many other devices available on the consumer electronic market that will provide you with a much more enjoyable experience. Sadly, the LG RC797T is not the one to do this.