Pioneer DVR-520H User Manual

DVD Recorder

DVR-420H DVR-520H

www.pioneerelectronics.com

Operating Instructions

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

The lightning flash with arrowhead, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

CAUTION:

TO PREVENT THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

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IMPORTANT NOTICE – THE SERIAL NUMBER FOR THIS EQUIPMENT IS LOCATED IN THE REAR.

PLEASE WRITE THIS SERIAL NUMBER ON YOUR ENCLOSED WARRANTY CARD AND KEEP IN A SECURE AREA. THIS IS FOR YOUR SECURITY.

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Information to User

Alteration or modifications carried out without appropriate authorization may invalidate the user’s right to operate the equipment.

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NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to

Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. – Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. – Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. – Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

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CAUTION : USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE

SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE.

CAUTION : THE USE OF OPTICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH THIS PRODUCT WILL INCREASE EYE HAZARD.

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WARNING – TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK

HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

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CAUTION: This product satisfies FCC regulations when shielded cables and connectors are used to connect the

unit to other equipment. To prevent electromagnetic interference with electric appliances such as radios and televisions, use shielded cables and connectors for connections.

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This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Cet appareil numérique de la Classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

READ INSTRUCTIONS — All the safety and

operating instructions should be read before the product is operated.

RETAIN INSTRUCTIONS — The safety and

operating instructions should be retained for future reference.

HEED WARNINGS — All warnings on the product

and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.

FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS — All operating and use

instructions should be followed.

CLEANING — The product should be cleaned only

with a polishing cloth or a soft dry cloth. Never clean with furniture wax, benzine, insecticides or other volatile liquids since they may corrode the cabinet.

ATTACHMENTS — Do not use attachments not

recommended by the product manufacturer as they may cause hazards.

WATER AND MOISTURE — Do not use this

product near water — for example, near a bathtub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a wet basement; or near a swimming pool; and the like.

ACCESSORIES — Do not place this product on an

unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer, or sold with the product. Any mounting of the product should follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and should use a mounting accessory recommended by the manufacturer.

CART — A product and cart combination should be

moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart combination to overturn.

VENTILATION — Slots and openings in the cabinet

are provided for ventilation and to ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect it from overheating, and these openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the manufacturer’s instructions have been adhered to.

POWER SOURCES — This product should be

operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or local power company.

LOCATION – The appliance should be installed in a

stable location.

NONUSE PERIODS – The power cord of the

appliance should be unplugged from the outlet when left un-used for a long period of time.

GROUNDING OR POLARIZATION

• If this product is equipped with a polarized alternating current line plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other), it will fit into the outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.

• If this product is equipped with a three-wire grounding type plug, a plug having a third (grounding) pin, it will only fit into a grounding type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the grounding type plug.

POWER-CORD PROTECTION — Power-supply

cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the product.

OUTDOOR ANTENNA GROUNDING — If an

outside antenna or cable system is connected to the product, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Article 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, provides information with regard to proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna-discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode. See Figure A.

LIGHTNING — For added protection for this

product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power-line surges.

POWER LINES — An outside antenna system

should not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching such power lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal.

OVERLOADING — Do not overload wall outlets,

extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.

ELECTRIC SERVICE EQUIPMENT

Fig. A

OBJECT AND LIQUID ENTRY — Never push

objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.

SERVICING — Do not attempt to service this

product yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

DAMAGE REQUIRING SERVICE — Unplug this

product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

• When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.

• If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the product.

• If the product has been exposed to rain or water.

• If the product does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions as an improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation.

• If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way.

• When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance — this indicates a need for service.

REPLACEMENT PARTS — When replacement parts

are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.

SAFETY CHECK — Upon completion of any service

or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the product is in proper operating condition.

WALL OR CEILING MOUNTING — The product

should not be mounted to a wall or ceiling.

HEAT — The product should be situated away from

heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

GROUND CLAMP

GROUND CLAMPS

POWER SERVICE GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM (NEC ART 250, PART H)

NEC — NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

ANTENNA LEAD IN WIRE

ANTENNA DISCHARGE UNIT (NEC SECTION 810-20)

GROUNDING CONDUCTORS (NEC SECTION 810-21)

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DANGER

VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN. AVOID DIRECT EXPOSURE TO BEAM.

This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

CAUTION – PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK DO

NOT USE THIS (POLARIZED) PLUG WITH AN EXTENSION CORD. RECEPTACLE OR OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE BLADES CAN BE FULLY INSERTED TO PREVENT BLADE EXPOSURE.

ATTENTION –

POUR PREVENIR LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES NE PAS UTILISER CETTE FICHE POLARISEE AVEC UN PROLONGATEUR UNE PRISE DE COURANT OU UNE AUTRE SORTIE DE COURANT, SAUF SI LES LAMES PEUVENT ETRE INSEREES A FOND SANS EN LAISSER AUCUNE PARTIE A DECOUVVERT.

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POWER-CORD CAUTION

Handle the power cord by the plug. Do not pull out the plug by tugging the cord and never touch the power cord when your hands are wet as this could cause a short circuit or electric shock. Do not place the unit, a piece of furniture, etc., on the power cord, or pinch the cord. Never make a knot in the cord or tie it with other cords. The power cords should be routed such that they are not likely to be stepped on. A damaged power cord can cause a fire or give you an electrical shock. Check the power cord once in a while. When you find it damaged, ask your nearest PIONEER authorized service center or your dealer for a replacement.

This product is for general household purposes. Any failure due to use for other than household purposes (such as long-term use for business purposes in a restaurant or use in a car or ship) and which requires repair will be charged for even during the warranty period.

This product includes FontAvenue® fonts licenced by NEC corporation. FontAvenue is a registered trademark of NEC Corporation.

WARNING: Handling the cord on this product or cords associated with accessories sold with the product will expose you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California and other governmental entities to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Wash hands after handling

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NOTE TO CATV SYSTEM INSTALLER

THIS REMINDER IS PROVIDED TO CALL THE CATV SYSTEM INSTALLER’S ATTENTION TO ARTICLE 82040 OF THE NEC THAT PROVIDES GUIDELINES FOR PROPER GROUNDING AND, IN PARTICULAR, SPECIFIES THAT THE CABLE GROUND SHALL BE

his product contains mercury. Disposal of this material may be regulated due to environmental considerations. For disposal or recycling information, please contact your local authorities or the Electronics Industries Alliance : www.eiae.org.

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CONNECTED TO THE GROUNDING SYSTEM OF THE BUILDING, AS CLOSE TO THE POINT OF CABLE ENTRY AS PRACTICAL.

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Recording equipment and copyright: You may use

this product only to reproduce or copy materials for which you own the copyright or have obtained permission to copy from the copyright owner or for which you otherwise have a legal right to reproduce or copy. Unless you own the copyright or have obtained permission from the copyright owner or otherwise have a legal right to reproduce or copy, you may be violating the law, including copyright law, and may be subject to payment of damages and other remedies.

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Selecting fine audio equipment such as the unit you’ve just purchased is only the start of your musical enjoyment. Now it’s time to consider how you can maximize the fun and excitement your equipment offers. This manufacturer and the Electronic Industries Association’s Consumer Electronics Group want you to get the most out of your equipment by playing it at a safe level. One that lets the sound come through loud and clear without annoying blaring or distortion-and, most importantly, without affecting your sensitive hearing.

Sound can be deceiving. Over time your hearing “comfort level” adapts to higher volumes of sound. So what sounds “normal” can actually be loud and harmful to your hearing. Guard against this by setting your equipment at a safe level BEFORE your hearing adapts.

To establish a safe level:

• Start your volume control at a low setting.

• Slowly increase the sound until you can hear it

comfortably and clearly, and without distortion.

Once you have established a comfortable sound level:

• Set the dial and leave it there.

We Want You Listening For A Lifetime

Used wisely, your new sound equipment will provide a lifetime of fun and enjoyment. Since hearing damage from loud noise is often undetectable until it is too late, this manufacturer and the Electronic Industries Association’s Consumer Electronics Group recommend you avoid prolonged exposure to excessive noise. This list of sound levels is included for your protection.

Decibel Level Example

30 Quiet library, soft whispers 40

Living room, refrigerator, bedroom away from traffic 50 Light traffic, normal conversation, quiet office 60 Air conditioner at 20 feet, sewing machine 70 Vacuum cleaner, hair dryer, noisy restaurant 80

Average city traffic, garbage disposals, alarm clock

at two feet.

THE FOLLOWING NOISES CAN BE DANGEROUS UNDER CONSTANT EXPOSURE

Subway, motorcycle, truck traffic, lawn mower

100 Garbage truck, chain saw, pneumatic drill 120 Rock band concert in front of speakers,

thunderclap

140 Gunshot blast, jet plane 180 Rocket launching pad

Information courtesy of the Deafness Research Foundation.

Taking a minute to do this now will help to prevent hearing damage or loss in the future. After all, we want you listening for a lifetime.

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Contents

01 Before you start

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

What’s in the box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Putting the batteries in the remote control . . . . . . . . 10

Using the remote control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Disc / content format playback compatibility . . . . . . 11

About the internal hard disk drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

02 Connecting up

Rear panel connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Front panel connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Easy connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Using other types of video output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Connecting to a cable box or satellite receiver (1). . . 17 Connecting to a cable box or satellite receiver (2). . . 18

Connecting to an AV amplifier or receiver. . . . . . . . . 19

Connecting other AV sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Plugging in. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

03 Controls and displays

Front panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Remote control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

04 Getting started

Switching on and setting up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Selecting the hard disk or DVD for playback and

recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Making your first recording. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Using the built-in TV tuner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Basic playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Using the Home Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Displaying disc information on-screen . . . . . . . . . . . 32

05 Playback

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Using the Disc Navigator to browse the contents

of a disc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Navigating discs and the HDD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Scanning discs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Playing in slow motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Frame advance/frame reverse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

The Play Mode menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Displaying and switching subtitles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Switching DVD soundtracks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Switching audio channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Switching camera angles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

06 Recording

About DVD recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

About HDD recording. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Recording time and picture quality. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Restrictions on video recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Setting the picture quality/recording time . . . . . . . . 45

Basic recording from the TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Setting a timer recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Timer recording FAQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Simultaneous recording and playback . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Recording from an external component . . . . . . . . . . 53

Automatic recording from a satellite tuner . . . . . . . . 54

Recording from a DV camcorder (DVR-520H only) . . 55 Recording from the DV output

(DVR-520H only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Playing your recordings on other DVD players . . . . . 56

Initializing a DVD-RW disc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

07 Copying and back-up

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

One Touch Copy* (HDD to DVD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

One Touch Copy* (DVD to HDD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Copying from HDD to DVD* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

HDD to DVD Copy List menu options . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Recording the Copy List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

HDD to DVD Copy List commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Copying from DVD to HDD* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

DVD to HDD Copy List menu options . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Recording the Copy List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

DVD to HDD Copy List commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Using disc back-up* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

08 Editing

The Disc Navigator screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Disc Navigator menu options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Editing VR mode Original, Video mode and HDD

content. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Editing HDD groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Creating and editing a VR mode Play List . . . . . . . . . 81

09 Disc History

Using the Disc History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

10 The PhotoViewer

Playing a slideshow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

11 The Disc Setup menu

Basic settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Initialize settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

HDD Initialize . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Finalize settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

12 The Video/Audio Adjust menu

Setting the picture quality for TV and external

inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Setting the picture quality for disc playback . . . . . . 92

Audio DRC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

13 The Initial Setup menu

Using the Initial Setup menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Basic settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Tuner settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Video Out settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Audio In settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Audio Out settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Language settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Recording settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Playback settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

14 Additional information

Resetting the recorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Setting up the remote to control your TV . . . . . . . . 106

Screen sizes and disc formats

Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Frequently asked questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

About DV (DVR-520H only). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Manual recording modes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Additional information for cable/satellite/STB

(set-top box) users . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Language code list. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Country code list . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

On-screen displays and recorder displays . . . . . . . 114

Handling discs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Storing discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Damaged discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Cleaning the pickup lens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Condensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Hints on installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

Moving the recorder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

Glossary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

015 Index

Before you start

Chapter 1

Before you start

Features

• HDD recording

You can record up to 102 hours of video (in EP mode) on the internal 80GB (gigabyte) hard disk (HDD).

With both recordable DVD and a high-capacity HDD in the same recorder, you have the flexibility to keep recordings on the HDD for quick access anytime, or record to DVD for archiving or playing on other DVD players.

• Copy between HDD and DVD

You can copy recordings from the HDD to recordable DVD, or from DVD to the HDD. Usually you can use the high-speed copy feature, which can copy an hour of video in under two minutes (when recorded in EP mode using a DVD-R Ver. 2.0 / 8x disc).

You can also choose to copy material at a different recording quality from the original. For example, you might want to copy a FINE mode (highest quality) recording on the HDD to SP (standard play) quality on a DVD so that you can fit other recordings on the same disc.

• One Touch Copy

One Touch Copy makes copying the currently playing title from HDD to DVD, or DVD to HDD as simple as pressing a button.

• Chase play

Using chase play you can start watching a recording before the recording has finished. For example, you could set a timer recording for a program that you’re going to miss the first 15 minutes of, then start watching while the recorder is still recording the program 15 minutes ahead of you.

• Simultaneous recording and playback

VR mode HDD

Playback and recording for both DVDs and the built-in hard disk drive (HDD) are completely independent. For example you can record a broadcast program to either a recordable DVD or the HDD, while watching another recording you already made on the same DVD or on the HDD.

HDD

VR mode HDD

• Disc Navigator

The on-screen Disc Navigator makes finding your way around the contents of a disc or the HDD easy. For recordable DVD and HDD content, moving thumbnail images are displayed for ease of use. The Disc Navigator is also where you can edit HDD and recordable DVD content.

• Disc History

The Disc History screen shows disc information, including how much free space remains for recording, for the last 30 recordable discs loaded in the recorder. Every time you load a recordable disc, the Disc History is automatically updated with the latest information.

• Home Menu

The Home Menu gives you on-screen access to all the recorder’s features in one convenient place, from setting up the recorder, to programming a timer recording and editing a recording.

• Progressive scan-compatible

Compared to standard interlaced video, progressive scan effectively doubles the amount of video information fed to your TV or monitor. The result is a stable, flicker-free image. (Check your TV/monitor for compatibility with this feature.)

• Cinema surround sound in your home

Connect this recorder to a Dolby Digital and/or DTScompatible AV amp/receiver to enjoy full surround sound effects from Dolby Digital and DTS DVD discs.

• Easy Timer Recording

Setting the recorder to record a program is simple from the Easy Timer Recording screen. Set the channel to record and the recording quality, then graphically set the start and end times of the recording. That’s it!

• Program up to 32 timer recordings

You can program the recorder to record up to 32 programs, up to a month in advance, using the

VCR Plus+ As well as single programs, you can specify daily or weekly recordings, too.

system*for easy programming if you want.

VCR Plus+ and PlusCode are registered trademarks

of Gemstar Development Corporation. The VCR Plus+ system is manufactured under license

from Gemstar Development Corporation.

Before you start

• One Touch Recording

Use One Touch Recording to start recording immediately in 30 minute blocks. Each time you press the  REC button, the recording time is extended by another 30 minutes.

• Optimized recording

Optimized recording adjusts the recording quality automatically if a timer recording will not fit onto a disc with the settings that you made.

• Auto Start Recording from satellite receiver or other set top box

With a satellite receiver or other set top box connected to the INPUT 1/AUTO START REC inputs of this recorder, you can start and stop recording automatically according to the timer settings of the set top box.

• High quality 16-bit Linear PCM audio

When recording using one of the high quality record settings (FINE or MN32), the audio is recorded in uncompressed 16-bit Linear PCM format. This delivers great sounding audio to accompany the high picture quality.

• Picture quality adjustment features

During playback, you can adjust various picture quality settings to improve the picture. You can also adjust the recording picture quality. For example, if you want to make a DVD copy of an old video tape, you can optimize the picture quality before transferring it to disc.

• Find what you want to watch quickly and easily

Unlike video tape that needs to be wound to the correct place, you can jump right to the part of a DVD disc or the HDD that you want to watch. Search for a point on a disc by title, chapter or time.

• Manual recording

In addition to the four preset recording quality modes (FINE, SP,LP and EP), the manual recording mode allows you to access 32 different recording quality/time settings, giving you precise control over the recording.

• Record to and from a DV camcorder (DVR-520H only)

This recorder has a built-in DV (Digital Video) input/ output jack for connection to a DV camcorder. This makes it ideal for transferring camcorder footage to DVD or HDD for editing. You can also transfer DVD or HDD content back to the camcorder if you need to.

• Safe, non-destructive editing

VR mode

When you edit a DVD-RW, the actual content of the disc (the Original content) is not touched. The edited version (the Play List content) just points to various parts of the Original content.

• Chapter marking

VR mode HDD

You can easily add chapter markers anywhere in your recordings for easy editing.

• Play Video mode recordings on a regular DVD

Video mode

player

Discs recorded using the Video mode can be played back on regular DVD players, including computer DVD drives

compatible with DVD-Video playback

‘DVD-Video format’ recording: The use of the DVD-

Video format for recording on DVD-R and DVD-RW discs is referred to as recording in ‘Video mode’ on Pioneer’s DVD recorders. Supporting playback of DVD-R / DVDRW discs is optional for manufacturers of DVD playback equipment, and there is DVD playback equipment that does not play DVD-R or DVD-RW discs recorded in the DVD-Video format. Note: ‘Finalization’ is required.

• WMA, MP3 and JPEG file playback

This recorder can play WMA and MP3 audio files and JPEG picture files on CD-R, CD-RW or CD-ROM discs.

• Disc Back-up

The disc back-up feature gives you a convenient way to back-up important material on DVD to another recordable DVD disc. The material is first copied to the HDD, then on to a second DVD disc.

• Recovery Recording

HDD

When a timer recording is set to use DVD but the disc loaded at the time of the recording is unrecordable, the program will automatically be recorded to the HDD.

• Auto Replace Recording

HDD

This feature is useful for regular timer recordings of a TV program which you don’t want to keep after watching. Each time the program is recorded, it replaces the one currently on the HDD. There’s no need to manually delete it later.

Note on copying: You may use this product only to reproduce or copy materials for

which you own the copyright or have obtained permission to copy from the copyright owner or for which you otherwise have a legal right to reproduce or copy. Unless you own the copyright or have obtained permission from the copyright owner or otherwise have a legal right to reproduce or copy, you may be violating the law, including copyright law, and may be subject to payment of damages and other remedies.

Before you start

What’s in the box

Please confirm that the following accessories are in the box when you open it.

• Remote control

• AA/R6P dry cell batteries x2

• Audio/video cable (red/white/yellow)

• RF antenna cable

• Power cable

• These operating instructions

• Warranty card

Putting the batteries in the remote control

1 Open the battery compartment cover on the back of the remote control.

2 Insert two AA/R6P batteries into the battery compartment following the indications ( the compartment.

3 Close the cover.

,) inside

Note

Incorrect use of batteries can result in hazards such as leakage and bursting. Please observe the following:

• Don’t mix new and old batteries together.

• Don’t use different kinds of batteries together— although they may look similar, different batteries may have different voltages.

• Make sure that the plus and minus ends of each battery match the indications in the battery compartment.

• Remove batteries from equipment that isn’t going to be used for a month or more.

• When disposing of used batteries, please comply with governmental regulations or environmental public instruction’s rules that apply in your country or area.

Using the remote control

Please keep in mind the following when using the remote control:

• Make sure that there are no obstacles between the remote and the remote sensor on the unit.

• Remote operation may become unreliable if strong sunlight or fluorescent light is shining on the unit’s remote sensor.

• Remote controllers for different devices can interfere with each other. Avoid using remotes for other equipment located close to this unit.

• Replace the batteries when you notice a fall off in the operating range of the remote.

• When the batteries run down or you change the batteries, the remote control mode and TV preset codes are automatically reset. See

Set on page 95 and Setting up the remote to control your TV on page 106 to reset them.

• Use within the operating range and angle, as shown.

Remote Control

23ft

• You can control this recorder using the remote sensor of another Pioneer component using the

CONTROL IN jack on the rear panel. See Rear panel connections on page 14 for more information.

Before you start

Disc / content format playback compatibility

General disc compatibility

This recorder is compatible with a wide range of disc types (media) and formats. Playable discs will generally feature one of the following logos on the disc and/or disc packaging. Note however that some disc types, such as recordable CD and DVD, may be in an unplayable format—see below for further compatibility information.

DVD-Video DVD-R DVD-RW

Audio CD CD-R

• Also compatible with KODAK Picture CD

•

is a trademark of DVD Format/Logo Licensing

Corporation.

• is a trademark of Fuji Photo Film Co. Ltd.

DVD-R/RW compatibility

This recorder will play and record DVD-R/RW discs. Compatible media:

• DVD-RW Ver. 1.1, Ver. 1.1 / 2x and Ver. 1.2 / 4x

• DVD-R Ver. 2.0 and Ver. 2.0 / 4x / 8x

Recording formats:

• DVD-R: DVD-Video format (Video mode)

• DVD-RW: Video Recording (VR) format and DVDVideo format (Video mode)

Older models of DVD recorders and DVD writers may reject DVD-RW Ver. 1.2 / 4x discs. To share DVD-RW discs between this recorder and an older recorder/writer, we recommend using Ver. 1.1 discs.

The following table shows older Pioneer DVD recorder compatibility with DVD-RW Ver. 1.2 / 4x discs

Model Playable Recordable

DVR-7000

DVR-810H/DVR-57H DVR-210/DVR-310/DVR-510H

Video CD

Fujicolor CD

Yes

1,2,3

CD-RW

Discs should be finalized in this recorder before playing. Unfinalized

VR mode and Video mode discs may not play.

Cannot read the CPRM information will show in the display when

you load a disc. However, this will not affect playback.

Copy-once protected disc titles will not play.

CD-R/RW compatibility

This recorder cannot record CD-R or CD-RW discs.

• Compatible formats: CD-Audio, Video CD, ISO 9660 CD-ROM* containing MP3, WMA or JPEG files * ISO 9660 Level 1 or 2 compliant. CD physical format:

Mode1, Mode2 XA Form1. Romeo and Joliet file systems are both compatible with this recorder.

• Multi-session playback: Yes (except CD-Audio and Video CD)

• Unfinalized disc playback: CD-Audio only

Compressed audio compatibility

• Compatible media: CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW

• Compatible formats: MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3 (MP3), Windows Media Audio (WMA)

• Sampling rates: 44.1 or 48kHz

• Bit-rates: Any (128Kbps or higher recommended)

• Variable bit-rate (VBR) MP3 playback: Yes

• VBR WMA playback: No

• WMA encoder compatibility: Windows Media Codec 8

(files encoded using Windows Media Codec 9 may be playable but some parts of the specification are not supported; specifically, Pro, Lossless, Voice and VBR)

• DRM (Digital Rights Management) file playback: No (see also DRM in the Glossary on page 116)

• File extensions: .mp3, .wma (these must be used for the recorder to recognize MP3 and WMA files – do not use for other file types)

• File structure: Up to 99 folders / 999 files (if these limits are exceeded, only files and folders up to these limits are playable)

Before you start

WMA (Windows Media Audio) compatibility

The Windows Media® logo printed on the box indicates that this recorder can playback Windows Media Audio content.

WMA is an acronym for Windows Media Audio and refers to an audio compression technology developed by Microsoft Corporation. WMA content can be encoded by

using Windows Media

Media

Player for Windows® XP, or Windows Media

Player 9 Series.

Microsoft, Windows Media, and the Windows logo are trademarks, or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

Player version 7, 7.1, Windows

JPEG file compatibility

• Compatible formats: Baseline JPEG and EXIF 2.2* still image files *File format used by digital still cameras

• Sampling ratio: 4:4:4, 4:4:2, 4:2:0

• Horizontal resolution: 160 – 5120 pixels

• Vertical resolution: 120 – 3840 pixels

• Progressive JPEG compatible: No

• File extensions: .jpg, jpeg, jif, jfif (must be used for the recorder to recognize JPEG files – do not use for other file types)

• File structure: The recorder can load up to 99 folders / 999 files at one time

that this on the disc then more can be reloaded)

PC-created disc compatibility

Discs recorded using a personal computer may not be playable in this unit due to the setting of the application software used to create the disc. In these particular instances, check with the software publisher for more detailed information.

Discs recorded in packet write mode (UDF format) are not compatible with this recorder.

Check the DVD-R/RW or CD-R/RW software disc boxes for additional compatibility information.

(if there are more files/folders

Frequently asked questions

• What’s the difference between DVD-R and DVD-RW?

The most important difference between DVD-R and DVD-RW is that DVD-R is a record-once medium, while DVD-RW is a re-recordable/erasable medium. You can re-record/erase a DVD-RW disc approximately 1,000 times.

For more information, see page 44.

• What’s VR mode?

VR (Video Recording) mode is a special mode designed for home DVD recording. It allows flexible editing of recorded material compared to ‘Video mode’. On the other hand, Video mode discs are more compatible with other DVD players.

• Can I play my recordable discs in a regular DVD player?

Generally, DVD-R discs and DVD-RW discs recorded in Video mode

but they must be ‘finalized’ first. This process fixes the contents of the disc to make them readable to other DVD players as DVD-Video discs.

DVD-RW discs recorded in VR mode are playable in some players.

This label indicates playback compatibility with DVD-RW discs recorded in VR mode (Video Recording format). However, for discs recorded with a record-only-once encrypted program, playback can only be achieved using the CPRM compatible device.

Note that Pioneer cannot guarantee that discs recorded using this recorder will play on other players.

‘DVD-Video format’ recording: The use of the DVDVideo format for recording on DVD-R and DVD-RW discs is referred to as recording in ‘Video mode’ on Pioneer’s DVD recorders. Supporting playback of DVD-R / DVDRW discs is optional for manufacturers of DVD playback equipment, and there is DVD playback equipment that does not play DVD-R or DVD-RW discs recorded in the DVD-Video format. Note: ‘Finalization’ is required.

This recorder supports the recording of ‘copy-once’ broadcast programs using the CPRM copy protection system (see CPRM on page 45) on CPRM-compliant DVD-RW discs in VR mode. CPRM recordings can only be played on players that are specifically compatible with CPRM.

are playable in a regular DVD player,

About DVD recording on

Before you start

• Do I need two DVD recorders for editing? What kind of editing can I do?

Unlike editing video tape, you only need one DVD recorder to edit discs. With DVD, you edit by making a ‘Play List’ of what to play and when to play it. On playback, the recorder plays the disc according to the Play List.

Original

Title 1

Chapter 1

Title 2Title 1

Chapter 1

Play List

Throughout this manual, you will often see the words Original and Play List to refer to the actual content and the edited version.

•

Original content refers to what’s actually recorded on the disc.

• Play List content refers to the edited version of the disc—how the Original content is to be played.

Title 3Title 2

Chapter 1 Chapter 1 Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 2

Chapter 2Chapter 1Chapter 2

About the internal hard disk drive

The internal hard disk drive (HDD) is a fragile piece of equipment. Please use the recorder following the guidelines below to protect against possible HDD failure.

We recommend that you back up your important recordings onto DVD-R/RW discs in order to protect against accidental loss.

• Do not move the recorder while it is on.

• Install and use the recorder on a stable, level surface.

• Do not block the rear vent/cooling fan.

• Do not use the recorder in excessively hot or humid places, or in places that may be subject to sudden changes in temperature. Sudden changes in temperature can cause condensation to form inside the recorder. This can be a cause of HDD failure.

• While the recorder is switched on, do not unplug from the wall socket or switch the electricity off from the breaker switch.

• Do not move the recorder immediately after switching it off. If you need to move the recorder, please follow the steps below:

1 After the message POWER OFF is shown in the display, wait at least two minutes.

2 Unplug from the wall socket. 3 Move the recorder.

• If there’s a power failure while the recorder is on there is a chance that some data on the HDD will be lost.

• The HDD is very delicate. If used improperly or in an unsuitable environment, it is possible that the HDD will fail after a few years of use. Signs of problems include playback unexpectedly freezing and noticeable block noise (mosaic) in the picture. However, sometimes there will be no warning signs of HDD failure.

If the HDD fails, no playback of recorded material will be possible. In this case it will be necessary to replace the HDD unit.

Connecting up

Chapter 2

Connecting up

Rear panel connections

1 32 4

OUTPUT 1

AUDIO

VIDEO

OUTPUT 2

VHF

UHF

INOUT

YPBP

COMPONENT VIDEO OUT

1 VHF/UHF IN/OUT

Connect your TV antenna to the VHF/UHF IN jack. The signal is passed through to the VHF/UHF OUT jack for connection to your TV.

2 COMPONENT VIDEO OUT

A high-quality video output for connecting to a TV or monitor with a component video input.

3 Audio/video outputs 1 and 2

Two sets of audio/video outputs (stereo analog audio; composite and S-video video) that you can use to connect TVs or monitors.

4 Audio/video inputs 1 and 3

Two sets of audio/video inputs (stereo analog audio; composite and S-video video) that you can use to connect to satellite receivers, TVs, VCR or other source component for recording.

5 CONTROL IN

Use to control this recorder from the remote sensor of another Pioneer component with a CONTROL OUT terminal and bearing the Pioneer  mark. Connect the

CONTROL OUT of the other component to the CONTROL IN of this recorder using a mini-plug cord.

6 OPTICAL DIGITAL OUT

A digital audio output for connecting to an AV amp/ receiver, Dolby Digital/DTS decoder or other equipment with optical digital input.

7 AC IN

Connect to a power outlet using the supplied power cable after making all other connections.

S-VIDEO

AUDIO

INPUT 3

VIDEO

INPUT 1/

S-VIDEO

AUTO START REC

CONTROL

OPTICAL

DIGITAL OUT

AC IN

5 6

Front panel connections



STANDBY/ON

DVDHDD

VIDEOS-VIDEO

PULL-OPEN

On the left side of the front panel a flip-down cover hides a third audio/video input, consisting of an S-video and standard (composite) video jack, and stereo analog audio jacks.

DVR-520H only: On the right side is the DV input/ output i.LINK connector. This is for connection to a DV camcorder.

OPEN/CLOSE REC

ONE TOUCH COPY

DV IN/OUT

Connecting up

Easy connections

The setup described here is a basic configuration that allows you to record TV programs on both this recorder and your VCR. When watching recordings from this recorder, set your TV to input 1; switch to input 2 to watch a video playing in the VCR.

Important

• This recorder is equipped with copy protection technology. Do not connect this recorder to your TV via a VCR (or your VCR via this recorder) using AV cables, as the picture from this recorder will not appear properly on your TV.

• Before making or changing any rear panel connections, make sure that all components are switched off and unplugged from the wall outlet.

A/V IN 2

A/V

OUT

VHF/UHF

VHF

YPBP

COMPONENT VIDEO OUT

AUDIO

VIDEO

S-VIDEO

OUTPUT 2

OUTPUT 1

INOUT

UHF

Antenna/cable TV wall outlet

1 Connect your TV antenna/cable TV outlet to the VHF/UHF IN jack on this recorder.

2 Use an RF antenna cable (one is supplied) to connect the VHF/UHF OUT jack on this recorder to the antenna input on your VCR.

• If you are not connecting a VCR in the chain, connect this recorder directly to your TV and skip the next step.

3 Use an RF antenna cable to connect the antenna output on your VCR to the antenna input on your TV.

A/V IN 1

OUT

VCR

INPUT 1/ AUTO START REC

OPTICAL

AUDIO

VIDEO

S-VIDEO

DIGITAL OUT

CONTROL

INPUT 3

AC IN

4 Connect the AUDIO and VIDEO OUTPUT jacks (1 or 2) to a set of audio/video inputs on your TV.

Use the supplied three-pin audio/video cable. It is colorcoded to help you match them up (red/white for the right/ left audio connections and yellow for video in/outs). Make sure you match up the left and right outputs with their corresponding inputs for correct stereo sound.

5 Connect your VCR to your TV (A/V IN 2 above) using a set of audio and video cables.

Note

• See the following page if you want to use S-video or component video cables for the video connection.

Connecting up

Using other types of video output

This recorder has standard (composite), S-video and component video outputs. The main difference between them is the quality of the picture. S-video delivers a better picture than composite video, while component video gives better picture quality still. The variety of outputs also gives you the flexibility of connecting your particular equipment using the best connection type available.

COMPONENT

INPUT

S-VIDEO

INPUT

OUTPUT 1

INOUT

VHF

UHF

YPBP

COMPONENT VIDEO OUT

AUDIO

VIDEO

S-VIDEO

OUTPUT 2

1 Connecting using an S-video output

S-video carries the picture as separate color and luminance (brightness) signals.

There are two S-video outputs for connection to TVs, monitors, VCRs or other equipment.

• Use an S-video cable (not supplied) to connect an S-VIDEO OUTPUT (1 or 2) to an S-video input on your TV, monitor (or other equipment).

INPUT 1/ AUTO START REC

OPTICAL

VIDEO

S-VIDEO

DIGITAL OUT

CONTROL

INPUT 3

AC IN

2 Connecting using the component video output

Component video carries the picture as two separate color signals, plus a luminance (brightness) signal.

See also Component Video Out on page 96 for how to set up the component video output for use with a progressive scan-compatible TV.

• Use a component video cable (not supplied) to connect the COMPONENT VIDEO OUT jacks to a component video input on your TV, monitor (or other equipment).

Connecting up

Connecting to a cable box or satellite receiver (1)

If you are using a cable box or satellite receiver with only a few scrambled channels, follow the setup on this page. If many or all the channels are scrambled, we recommend using the setup on the following page.

Using the setup on this page you can:

• Record unscrambled channels by selecting them on this recorder.

• Record scrambled channels by selecting them on the cable box/satellite tuner and using the Auto Start Recording feature (see Automatic recording from a satellite tuner on page 54).

• Watch one channel while recording another.

Important

• Do not connect this recorder ‘through’ your VCR, satellite receiver or cable box. Always connect each component directly to your TV or AV amp/receiver.

A/V IN 1

VHF/UHF

OUT

Cable box/ Satellite receiver

VHF

YPBP

COMPONENT VIDEO OUT

AUDIO

VIDEO

S-VIDEO

OUTPUT 2

OUTPUT 1

INOUT

UHF

Antenna/cable TV wall outlet

1 Connect RF antenna cables as shown.

This enables you to watch and record TV channels.

2 Connect the AUDIO and VIDEO OUTPUT jacks (1 or 2) on this recorder to a set of audio/video inputs on your TV using a set of A/V cables (as supplied).

This enables you to watch the output from this recorder.

3 Connect the audio/video output of your cable box/satellite tuner to the INPUT 1/AUTO START REC jacks on this recorder using a set of A/V cables.

This enables you to record scrambled TV channels.

VHF/UHF

AUDIO

INPUT 3

A/V OUT

INPUT 1/ AUTO START REC

OPTICAL

VIDEO

S-VIDEO

DIGITAL OUT

CONTROL

AC IN

Note

The diagram shows standard video connections, but you can alternatively use the S-video or component video connections if they’re available.

Connecting up

Connecting to a cable box or satellite receiver (2)

If many or all the channels you receive by cable or satellite are scrambled, we recommend using this setup. Using the setup on this page you can:

• Record any channel by selecting it on the cable box/satellite tuner.

• Record using the Auto Start Recording feature (see Automatic recording from a satellite tuner on page 54).

Important

• Do not connect this recorder ‘through’ your VCR, satellite receiver or cable box. Always connect each component directly to your TV or AV amp/receiver.

A/V

IN 1

VHF/UHF

OUTPUT 1

INOUT

UHF

VHF/UHF

OUT

VHF

YPBP

COMPONENT VIDEO OUT

VHF/UHF

AUDIO

VIDEO

S-VIDEO

OUTPUT 2

Antenna/cable TV wall outlet

1 Connect RF antenna cables as shown.

This enables you to watch and record TV channels.

2 Connect the AUDIO and VIDEO OUTPUT jacks (1 or 2) on this recorder to a set of audio/video inputs on your TV using a set of A/V cables (as supplied).

This enables you to watch discs.

3 Connect the audio/video output of your cable box/satellite tuner to the INPUT 1/AUTO START REC jacks on this recorder using a set of A/V cables.

This enables you to record scrambled TV channels.

AUDIO

INPUT 3

A/V

OUT

VIDEO

INPUT 1/ AUTO START REC

OPTICAL

S-VIDEO

DIGITAL OUT

CONTROL

Cable box/ Satellite receiver

AC IN

Note

• The setup on this page does not allow you to watch one channel and record another.

• The diagram shows standard video connections, but you can alternatively use the S-video or component video connections if they’re available.

Connecting up

Connecting to an AV amplifier or receiver

To enjoy multichannel surround sound you need to connect this recorder to an AV amp/receiver using the digital optical output. In addition to the digital connection, we recommend also connecting using the stereo analog connection.

You’ll probably also want to connect a video output to your AV amp/receiver. Use the standard (composite) video output (as shown here), or the S-video or component video connections.

See also speakers if the recorder is not set up to work with your AV amp/receiver.)

Audio Out settings on page 98 for how to set up the digital audio output. (Noise may be output from your

Important

• Do not connect this recorder to your TV ‘through’ your VCR or other component using A/V cables. Always connect it directly to your TV.

VHF/UHF

OUTPUT 1

INOUT

UHF

VHF

YPBP

COMPONENT VIDEO OUT

AUDIO

VIDEO

S-VIDEO

OUTPUT 2

INPUT 1/ AUTO START REC

OPTICAL

AUDIO

VIDEO

S-VIDEO

DIGITAL OUT

CONTROL

INPUT 3

Antenna/cable TV wall outlet

1 Connect RF antenna cables as shown.

This enables you to watch and record TV channels.

2 Connect the AUDIO and VIDEO OUTPUT jacks (1 or 2) on this recorder to a set of audio/video inputs on your AV amp/receiver.

3 Use an optical digital audio cable (not supplied) to connect the OPTICAL DIGITAL OUT jack on this recorder to an optical digital input on your AV amp/ receiver.

This enables you to listen to multichannel surround sound.

4 Connect the AV amp/receiver’s video output to a video input on your TV.

VIDEO

A/V IN 1

AC IN

DIGITAL IN

OPTICAL

AV amp/ receiver

Note

• The diagram shows standard video connections, but you can alternatively use the S-video or component video connections if they’re available.

• If your AV amp/receiver doesn’t have an optical digital input, but has a coaxial type, converter boxes that convert from optical to coaxial are available at specialist audio dealers.

VIDEO

OUT

Connecting up

Connecting other AV sources

Connecting a VCR or analog camcorder

Connecting a DV camcorder (DVR-520H only)

Using the front panel DV IN/OUT jack, it is possible to connect a DV camcorder or video deck, or DVD-R/RW recorder and digitally transfer DV tapes or DVD-R/RW discs to DVD-R/RW.

DV IN/OUT

AUDIO/VIDEO

OUTPUT

1 2

Analog camcorder

AUDIO/VIDEO

INPUT

VCR

AUDIO/VIDEO

INPUT

AUDIO/VIDEO

OUTPUT

1 Connect a set of audio and video outputs of your VCR or camcorder to a set of inputs on this recorder.

This enables you to record tapes from your VCR or camcorder.

• You can use standard video or S-video cables for the video connection.

• The front panel connections make convenient connections for a camcorder input.

2 Connect a set of audio and video inputs of your VCR or camcorder to a set of outputs on this recorder.

This enables you to record from this recorder to your VCR or camcorder.

• You can use standard video or S-video cables for the video connection.

Important

• This jack is for connection to DV equipment only. It is not compatible with digital satellite tuners or D-VHS video decks.

DV IN/OUT

IN/OUT

DV camcorder

1 Use a DV cable (not supplied) to connect the DV in/out jack of your DV camcorder/video deck to the front panel DV IN/OUT jack of this recorder.

Plugging in

After checking all the connections, plug in the recorder.

AC IN

1 Use the supplied power cable to connect this recorder to a power outlet.

Controls and displays

Chapter 3

Controls and displays

Front panel

1 2 3 4 65

STANDBY/ON

PULL-OPEN



DVDHDD

1  STANDBY/ON

Press to switch the recorder on/into standby.

2 HDD

Press to switch to the hard disk drive (HDD) for recording and playback. The button lights when HDD is selected.

3 DVD

Press to switch to DVD for recording and playback. The button lights when DVD is selected.

4 IR remote sensor (page 10)

5 Disc tray

6 Front panel display

See Display on page 22 for details. 7 DV IN/OUT jack (DVR-520H only) (page 14, 20, 53,

55, 56, 97, 111) Digital input/output jack for use with a DV camcorder.

8 +/– (page 28, 30) Use to change TV channels, skip chapters/tracks, etc.

OPEN/CLOSE REC

ONE TOUCH COPY

DV IN/OUT

781112131415 910

9 ONE TOUCH COPY (page 59)

Press to start One Touch Copy of the currently playing title to DVD or the HDD. See also the Note on copying on page 9.

10  REC

Press to start recording.

Press to stop recording.

12 

Press to start or restart playback.

13 

Press to stop playback.

14  OPEN/CLOSE

Press to open/close the disc tray. 15 Front panel inputs (page 14)

Pull the cover down where indicated to access the front panel input jacks. Especially convenient for connecting camcorders and other portable equipment.

Controls and displays

Display

4321 5 6 7 8

1  / 

Arrows indicate the copy direction between the HDD ( ) and DVD ( ).

2  PLAY /  REC indicators

Lights during playback / recording; blinks when playback / recording is paused.

3   (page 27) The ‘’ and ‘’ indicators light to indicate that the HDD or DVD is selected for recording/playback.

4PL(page 75, 81) Lights when a VR mode disc is loaded and the recorder is in Play List mode.

5PM

Lights to indicate PM (after midday) for the clock display. 62 3(page 95)

Shows the remote control mode (if nothing is displayed, the remote control mode is 1).

7 REM

Lights when the character display is showing the remaining available recording time.

8 (page 96) Lights when the component video output is set to progressive scan.

Lights when an unfinalized Video mode disc is loaded.

10 R / RW

Indicates the type of recordable DVD loaded: DVD-R or DVD-RW.

11 CH (page 28) Channel indicator for the built-in TV tuner.

9 10 1211 13

12 (page 47)

Lights when a timer recording has been set. (Indicator blinks if the timer has been set to DVD but there isn’t a recordable disc loaded, or the timer has been set to HDD but the HDD is not recordable.)

AUTO (page 54) Lights when Auto Start Recording has been set, and during Auto Start Recording.

13 Recording quality indicators (page 44)

FINE

Lights when the recording mode is set to FINE (best quality).

Lights when the recording mode is set to SP (standard play).

Lights when the recording mode is set to LP (long play).

Lights when the recording mode is set to EP (extended play).

Lights when the recording mode is set to MN (manual recording level) mode.

14 Character display

15 Channel recording indicators

(page 97) Indicates which channels are recorded when Dual Mono is selected.

SAP (page 29) Lights when the currently selected TV channel has a Second Audio Program channel.

16 OVER (page 98)

Lights when the analog audio input level is too high.

15 16

Controls and displays

Remote control

6 DVD (page 27) Press to select the DVD for recording or playback.

7 DVD playback functions

1 2

STANDBY/ON ONE TOUCH

5 7

DISC NAVIGATOR PLAY LIST

REV SCAN PLAY FWD SCAN

PAUSE STOPOK SKIPCMBACK



HDD DVD

SUBTITLE ANGLE PLAY MODE

AUDIO

GHI JKL MNO

PQRS TUV WXYZ

VCR Plus+

TOP MENU MENU

HOME MENU

CASE

SELECTION

REC

STOP REC REC MODE TIMER REC



DISC

HISTORY

TV CONTROL



INPUT

CHANNEL

SELECT

COPY

DEF

ABC

CLEAR

ENTER

NEXT STEP/SLOW

NAVI

CHP

MARK

VOLUME

DVD RECORDER

OPEN/CLOSE



INPUT SELECT

CHANNEL

RETURN



EASY TIMER

DISPLAY

1 ONE TOUCH COPY (page 59)

Press to start One Touch Copy of the currently playing title to DVD or the HDD. See also the Note on copying on page 9.

2 Remote control indicator

Lights when setting up the remote control for use with a TV (page 106) and when setting the remote control mode (page 95).

3  STANDBY/ON

Press to switch the recorder on/into standby.

4  OPEN/CLOSE

Press to open/close the disc tray. 5 HDD (page 27)

Press to select the hard disk (HDD) for recording or playback.

AUDIO (page 29, 42, 43) Changes the audio language or channel. (When the recorder is stopped, press to change the tuner audio.)

SUBTITLE (page 42) Displays/changes the subtitles included in multilingual DVD-Video discs.

ANGLE (page 43) Switches camera angles on discs with multi-angle scenes.

8 PLAY MODE (page 39) Press to display the Play Mode menu (for features such as search, repeat and program play).

9 Alphanumeric buttons and CLEAR

Use the number buttons for track/chapter/title selection; channel selection, and so on. The same buttons can also be used to enter names for titles, discs and so on.

Use CLEAR to clear an entry and start again. 10 INPUT SELECT (page 53)

Press to change the input to use for recording. 11 CHANNEL +/– (page 28)

Press to change the channel of the built-in TV tuner. 12 VCR Plus+ (page 50)

Press, then use the number buttons to enter a PlusCode

programming number for timer recording.

13 DISC NAVIGATOR (page 35, 73) / TOP MENU (page 30) Press to display the Disc Navigator screen, or the top menu if a DVD-Video disc is loaded.

14 PLAY LIST (page 75, 81) / MENU (page 30) Press to switch between Original and Play List content on VR mode discs, or display the disc menu if a DVD-Video disc is loaded.

15 /// (cursor buttons) and ENTER

Used to navigate all on-screen displays. Press ENTER to select the currently highlighted option.

16 HOME MENU (page 32) Press to display the Home Menu, from which you can navigate all the functions of the recorder.

17 RETURN

Press to go back one level in the on-screen menu or display.

Controls and displays

18 Playback controls (page 29)

 REV SCAN / FWD SCAN  (page 37) Press to start reverse or forward scanning. Press again to change the speed.

 PLAY

Press to start playback.

 PAUSE

Press to pause playback or recording.

 STOP

Press to stop playback.

CM BACK (commercial back)

Press repeatedly to skip progressively backward through the audio or video playing.

CM SKIP (commercial skip)

Press repeatedly to skip progressively forward through the audio or video playing.

 PREV / NEXT 

Press to skip to the previous or next title/chapter/ track/folder; or to display the previous or next menu page.

 STEP/SLOW  (page 38) During playback, press to start slow-motion playback; while paused, press to show the previous or next video frame.

19 Recording controls (page 28)

 REC

Press to start recording. Press repeatedly to set the recording time in blocks of 30 mins.

F STOP REC

Press to stop recording. REC MODE (page 45)

Press repeatedly to change the recording mode (picture quality).

TIMER REC (page 48) Press to set a timer recording from the standard Timer Recording screen.

EASY TIMER (page 47) Press to set a timer recording from the Easy Timer Recording screen.

20 DISC HISTORY (page 86)

Press to display summary information (disc name, recording time left, etc.) from the last 30 recordable discs loaded.

NAVI MARK (page 36) Press to select a thumbnail picture for the current title for use in the Disc Navigator screen.

CHP MARK (page 78) Press to insert a chapter marker when playing/ recording a VR mode DVD-RW disc or the HDD.

21 DISPLAY (page 32) Displays/changes the on-screen information displays.

22 TV CONTROL (page 106) After setting up, use these controls to control your TV.

Getting started

Chapter 4

Getting started

Switching on and setting up

When you switch the recorder on for the first time, you can make several basic settings using the Setup Navigator feature. This takes you through setting the clock, the internal TV tuner and the video and audio output settings.

If you’re using the recorder for the first time, we strongly recommend you use the Setup Navigator before starting to use the recorder.

1 Switch on your TV and set the video input to this recorder.

2 Press the  STANDBY/ON button on the remote control or the front panel to switch on.

When you switch on for the first time, your TV should display the Setup Navigator screen. (If the Setup Navigator doesn’t appear, you can also access it from the Initial Setup menu; see page 95).

3 Use the / (cursor up/down) buttons to select English or French as the OSD, subtitle, audio, and DVD menu language, then press ENTER.

STANDBY/ON



ENTER

DVD RECORDER

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

Language

Clock Set On Screen Display Front Panel Display Remote Control Set Setup Mavigator

Setup Mavigator

English français

4 Press ENTER again to start setting up using the Setup Navigator.

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

Clock Set

Complete this setup before you

On Screen Display

start using your recorder.

Front Panel Display Remote Control Set Setup Mavigator

Setup Mavigator

Start Cancel

Please use the Initial Setup if you want to make more detailed settings.

• If you don’t want to use the Setup Navigator, press  (cursor down) to select Cancel, then press ENTER to exit the Setup Navigator.

5 Use the / (cursor up/down) buttons to select ‘Antenna’ or ‘Cable’ depending on how you receive your terrestrial TV channels, then press ENTER.

You can also select Do not set if you don’t need the recorder to retune all the channels (if you’re using the Setup Navigator for a second time, for example).

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

Auto Channel Setting

Clock Set On Screen Display Front Panel Display Remote Control Set Setup Mavigator

Setup Mavigator

Antenna Cable Do not set

Getting started

After selecting Antenna or Cable the recorder starts automatic tuning. This takes a couple of minutes to complete.

Tuning

7/68

Cancel

6 Select ‘Auto’ for automatic time setting, then press ENTER.

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

Clock Setting

Clock Set On Screen Display Front Panel Display Remote Control Set Setup Mavigator

Setup Mavigator

Auto Manual

• Auto clock setting

Some TV channels broadcast time signals together with the program. This recorder can use these signals to set the clock automatically.

Set ‘Clock Set CH‘ to the channel preset number that broadcasts a time signal, then move the cursor down to ‘Start’ and press ENTER.

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

Auto Clock Setting

Clock Set On Screen Display

Date

Front Panel Display

Time

Remote Control Set

Clock Set CH

Setup Mavigator

Start

Use the / (cursor left/right) buttons to set your time zone.

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

Manual Clock Setting

Clock Set On Screen Display Front Panel Display

Time Zone

Remote Control Set Setup Mavigator

Setup Mavigator

D.S.T.

USA

Alaska

Off

1/2

Press  (cursor down) then use the / (cursor left/right) buttons to set D.S.T. to On or Off, then press ENTER.

Select On if you are currently using daylight saving time.

Set the current date and time.

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

Manual Clock Setting

Clock Set On Screen Display

Date

Front Panel Display Remote Control Set

Time

Setup Mavigator

Time Zone

D.S.T.

01 01 2004

12 00

USA Alaska

Off

2/2

THU

• Use the / (cursor up/down) buttons to change the value in the highlighted field.

• Use the / (cursor left/right) buttons to move from one field to another.

• Press ENTER to finish setting the time.

7 Select the kind of TV you have, ‘Wide (16:9)’ or ‘Standard (4:3)’.

The recorder takes a short while to set the time. After you see that the time has been set, select Next to proceed.

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

Auto Clock Setting

Clock Set On Screen Display

Date

Front Panel Display

Time

Remote Control Set

Clock Set CH

Setup Mavigator

11 20

2104 2004

Start

WED

If the time could not be set automatically, press RETURN to go back to the previous screen and select Manual.

• Manual clock setting

If no stations in your area are broadcasting time signals, you can set the clock manually.

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

TV Screen Size

Clock Set On Screen Display Front Panel Display Remote Control Set Setup Mavigator

Setup Mavigator

Wide (16:9) Standard (4:3)

Use the / (cursor up/down) buttons to select, then press ENTER.

8 Is your TV compatible with progressive scan video?

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

Progressive

Clock Set On Screen Display Front Panel Display Remote Control Set Setup Mavigator

Setup Mavigator

Compatible Not Compatible Don't Know

Getting started

HDD DVD





Use the / (cursor up/down) buttons to select Compatible, Not Compatible, or Don’t Know, then press ENTER.

• Note that progressive scan video is only output through the component video outputs (see page 16).

9 Is this recorder connected to an AV amp/receiver for digital audio?

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

AV Amp Digital Connect

Clock Set On Screen Display Front Panel Display Remote Control Set Setup Mavigator

Setup Mavigator

Connected Not Connected

Use the / (cursor up/down) buttons to select Connected, or Not Connected, then press ENTER.

• If you select Not Connected, that completes the setup. Press ENTER to exit the Setup Navigator, or select Go Back if you want to start again.

10 Select the digital audio formats your AV amp/ receiver is compatible with.

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

AV Amp Compatibility

Clock Set On Screen Display Front Panel Display Remote Control Set Setup Mavigator

Setup Mavigator

Dolby Digital Dolby Digital, DTS PCM only

12 That’s it! Press ENTER to finish setting up, or select ‘Go Back’ if you want to start again.

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

Clock Set On Screen Display

Setup is complete!

Front Panel Display

Enjoy using your DVD recorder!

Remote Control Set Setup Mavigator

Setup Mavigator

Finish Setup Go Back

Other settings you can make

After setting up using the Setup Navigator, you should be ready to start enjoying your DVD recorder. It’s possible, however, that you may want to make a couple of additional settings, depending on how the recorder is set up for TV broadcasts.

• Manual channel setting – This setting lets you skip channels where there is no station, as well as manually tune to stations. See page 96.

• VCR Plus+ channel setting – This setting lets you assign guide channels to ensure that the VCR Plus+ programming system works correctly. See Plus+ CH Setting on page 96.

That completes basic setup using the Setup Navigator.

• Setting up the remote to control your TV – You can set up the supplied remote control to control many brands of TV. See Setting up the remote to control your

TV on page 106.

Manual CH Setting on

VCR

Use the / (cursor up/down) buttons to select Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital, DTS or PCM only, then press ENTER.

• Check the operating instructions that came with your AV amp/receiver if you’re not sure what it’s compatible with.

11 Is your AV amp/receiver compatible with 96 kHz digital audio?

Initial Setup

Basic Tuner Video Out Audio In Audio Out Language Recording Playback

96kHz PCM Compatible

Clock Set On Screen Display Front Panel Display Remote Control Set Setup Mavigator

Setup Mavigator

Compatible Not Compatible Don't Know

Use the / (cursor up/down) buttons to select Compatible, Not Compatible, or Don’t Know, then press ENTER.

• Check the operating instructions that came with your AV amp/receiver if you’re not sure.

Selecting the hard disk or DVD for playback and recording

The HDD and DVD buttons (remote control and front panel) are used to select the hard disk (HDD) or DVD for playback and recording. The indicator in the front panel display shows which is currently selected.

ENTER

CHANNEL

Getting started

Making your first recording

This quick guide shows you how to make a basic recording of a TV program on either the HDD, or to a recordable DVD.

Recording is covered in much more detail in chapter 6 (

Recording).

STANDBY/ON



HDD DVD

OPEN/CLOSE



CHANNEL

• Antenna channels are numbered 2 through 69. Cable channels are numbered 1 through 125.

6 Press  REC to start recording.

• By default, the recording will be in SP (standard play) mode, which will give you around two hours of recording from a blank DVD disc.

• You can pause recording by pressing  PAUSE. Press  REC or  PAUSE again to restart recording.

7 When you want to stop recording, press

F STOP REC.

Playing back your recording

The TV program you just recorded should be on the HDD or DVD disc as a single title with one or more chapters.

• Press  PLAY to start playback.

If you want to stop playback before the end of the recording, press  STOP.

PLAY

STOP

REC

STOP REC



1 If they aren’t already on, switch on your TV and this recorder.

Press  STANDBY/ON to switch on.

• Make sure that the video input on your TV is set to this recorder.

2 Press HDD to record to the HDD, or DVD to record to a recordable DVD. If you choose to record to the HDD, skip to step 5 now.

3 Press  OPEN/CLOSE to open the disc tray.

4 Load a blank DVD-R or DVD-RW disc with the label side face-up, using the disc guide to align the disc.

• When you load a new, blank DVD-RW disc, the recorder will take a moment to initialize it for recording.

5 Use the CHANNEL +/– buttons to select the TV channel you want to record from.

• You can also use the +/– buttons on the front panel if the recorder is stopped.

Using the built-in TV tuner

Changing TV channels

There are three different ways to select TV channels. Note that you can’t change the TV channel during playback, recording or during recording standby.

• CHANNEL +/– buttons on the remote

• Number buttons on the remote – For example, to select channel 4, press 4 then ENTER; for channel 34, press 3, 4, ENTER; for channel 102, press 1, 0, 2, ENTER.

• +/– buttons on the front panel

Note

• Antenna channels are numbered 2 through 69. Cable channels are numbered 1 through 125.

• You can’t change TV channels during playback or recording, or while in recording standby.

Getting started

Changing audio channels

Some TV programs are broadcast with both a main and a Second Audio Program (SAP). You can change the TV audio using the AUDIO button.

AUDIO

• Press AUDIO to change the TV audio.

The current audio channel is displayed on-screen.

Mono SAP

Stereo

•IfSAP is selected, but there is no SAP channel being broadcast, you will still hear the main audio channel.

• If the sound is poor quality when set to Stereo, you can often improve it by changing to Mono.

Basic playback

This section shows you how to use your recorder for playback of discs (DVD, CD, etc.), and for playback of video from the HDD. More playback features, such as repeat and program play, are covered in the next chapter.

STANDBY/ON



OPEN/CLOSE



ENTER

Important

• Throughout this manual, the term ‘DVD’ means playback-only DVD-Video discs and DVD-R/RW. If a function is specific to a particular kind of DVD disc, it is specified.

• Some DVD-Video discs don’t allow certain playback controls to operate at certain points in the disc. This is not a malfunction.

1 Press  STANDBY/ON to switch on.

Also turn on your TV and make sure that it is set to the correct video input.

2 Press HDD to playback from the HDD, or DVD to play a DVD. If playing video from the HDD, skip to step 5 below.

3 Press  OPEN/CLOSE to open the disc tray.

4 Load a disc.

Load a disc with the label side facing up, using the disc tray guide to align the disc (if you’re loading a doublesided DVD-Video disc, load it with the side you want to play face down).

• If you want to play a DTS audio CD, please first read the note on page 31.

5 Press  PLAY to start playback.

• If you’re playing a DVD-Video or Video CD, a disc menu may appear when you start playback. Use the /// (cursor) buttons and ENTER to navigate DVD disc menus, and the number buttons and ENTER for Video CD menus.

• When playing video from the HDD, playback will automatically stop after the end of a title is reached.

• See the following sections for more details on playing specific kinds of discs.

6 To stop playback, press  STOP.

7 When you’ve finished using the recorder, eject the disc and switch the recorder back into standby.

• To open/close the disc tray, press  OPEN/CLOSE. Remove the disc before putting the recorder into standby.

• Press  STANDBY/ON to switch the recorder into standby.

PLAY

STOP



Getting started

Playing DVD discs

The table below shows the basic playback controls for DVD-Video, and recordable DVD discs.

PLAY

Press to start playback. If RESUME is displayed on-screen, playback starts from the place last stopped.

STOP

Press to stop playback. You can resume playback from the same point by pressing  PLAY. (Press  STOP again to cancel the resume function.)

PAUSE

Pauses playback, or restarts playback when paused.

REV SCAN FWD SCAN

PREV NEXT

TOP MENU MENU

ENTER

Press to start scanning. Press repeatedly to increase the scanning speed.

Press to skip to previous/next chapter/title. (You can also use the front panel +/– buttons to do this during playback.)

Except VR mode: During playback, enter a chapter number then press ENTER to skip directly to that chapter within the currently playing title.

CLEAR

On some discs, you can also use the number buttons to select numbered items in

ENTER

the disc menu. VR mode only: During playback, enter a title number then press ENTER. All: Press CLEAR to clear a number entry and start again.

SKIPCMBACK

(Commercial back/skip) Each press skips backward/forward progressively up to a maximum of 10 minutes forward or three minutes back.

STEP/SLOW

During playback, press to start slow-



motion playback. Press repeatedly to change the playback speed. While paused, press to advance a single frame in either direction.

Press to display the ‘top’ menu or menu of a DVD-Video disc (these are often the same).

Use the cursor buttons to navigate DVDVideo disc menus; press ENTER to select items.

Playing from the HDD

The table below shows the basic playback controls when playing video recorded on the hard disk (HDD).

PLAY

Press to start playback. If RESUME is displayed on-screen, playback starts from the place last stopped. Playback automatically stops after the end of a title is reached.

STOP

Press to stop playback. You can resume playback from the same point by pressing  PLAY. (Press  STOP again to cancel the resume function.)

PAUSE

Pauses playback, or restarts playback when paused.

REV SCAN FWD SCAN

PREV NEXT

Press to start scanning. Press repeatedly to increase the scanning speed.

Press to skip to previous/next chapter/title. (You can also use the front panel +/– buttons to do this during playback.)

During playback, enter a title number then press ENTER to skip directly to that title. Press CLEAR to clear a number entry and start again.

CLEAR

ENTER

SKIPCMBACK

(Commercial back/skip) Each press skips backward/forward progressively up to a maximum of 10 minutes forward or three minutes back.

STEP/SLOW

During playback, press to start slow-



motion playback. Press repeatedly to change the playback speed. While paused, press to advance a single frame in either direction.

RETURN

Press to return to the previous level of a DVD-Video disc menu.

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