Panasonic DMR-ES20D DVD recorder

Posted by T3 Online on Tue 8 Nov 2005

A Panny recorder with something extra.

We'd been wondering when a DVD recorder featuring built-in Freeview would turn up, and it's Panasonic which has dipped its toe in the free-digital-TV end of the pool.

The ES20D doesn't have twin digital tuners, sadly, but you do get an analogue one thrown in, so you can watch one channel while recording another. Plus, in addition to providing the main advantages of digital telly - more widescreen programmes, more channels - the model also boasts a seven-day programme guide that enables you to set the recording timer in a matter of seconds. Good stuff, but then we'd expect nothing less.

Direct recording is just as easy. The "One Second Quick Start" feature Panasonic has introduced into its newer recorders means you don't miss the first 30 seconds of a show while the thing warms itself up. It's a nice touch, as is the multi-format recording capability and DVD-Audio playback (stereo only, mind, not 5.1).

The Freeview tuner is a piece of cake to set up, produces a thoroughly decent picture and is a real boon if you don't have a better alternative to plug into the box. Those who have cable, Sky or Freeview already may as well not bother, though - better to go for a slightly cheaper model without the Freeview tuner, such as Panny's £240 DMR-ES10.

£300 ain't cheap for a DVD recorder these days, but if you need a good 'un - and you don't have a better source than analogue telly - this is well worth considering.