VCR is broken ...Upgrade HDD or DVDR?

[mwdtnwu]

The VCR (with Japanese tuner) finally died.

It is time to upgrade. Anyone out there that knows about DVD R & HDD recorders?

What are good reliable models, cost and a good place to buy?

Thanks for the help.

[okisteve]

We bought a Toshiba HDD/DVD recorder. I hate it - only the kids know how to program it. It cost around $300 3 years ago but I'd bet they are cheaper now. Make sure you get something that has an English language manual if you don't read Japanese.

[TheLastDon]

Do you want one with a Japanese Tuner? If you do I would recommend HDD/DVR combo with the Digital tuner. The price depends on the size of the hard drive.
I haven't seen a Japanese model with English menu but Sony has the simplest one to navigate.

[mwdtnwu]

Yes Digital tuner would be great.

[TheLastDon]

Do you plan on staying in Japan a long time because the digital tuner is not going to work in the states.

Yamada Denki or Kojima are the discount electronic stores, those would be the best places to try. There was a lady who works at Yamada Denki in Awase who speaks pretty good English.

You can also check Amazon.co.jp and search the electronics section for HDD/DVR players to get an idea on the price.