Is there an easy to use vcr?


My tv and dvd sound are played through a good sound system, anchored by a Threshold S300 amplifier. So, my sound is good, coming through the small Magnepans. There is a need for a vcr, though I know they may be becoming dinosaurs. It is important that the vcr be easy to use - does such an item exist? A very old one that I have and which has died is a nightmare to program - an old Mitsubishi SVHS. It's been a while since any comments were made on Audiogon re vcrs and I hope my inquiry is not too offbase. Thanks.
jdh9
I used to have RCA VCR with minimal controls and very darn simple that I bought in 1994. It's already a candidate for the donation in not working order. I now use Sony which is far more complicated but basic functions are all the same since stone ages. If you want something extra like magnifying pictures(to see some sexy close-ups) or activate a recording session during the night(with cable-compatible model) or any other extra-features than you should probably learn through manuals.
Sony VCRs have probably the best longetivity and descent sound.
Panasonics are probably the easiest to use nowdays.
I have a JVC Super VHS that i would not recommend to anyone. It is hard to program and the manual sucks. Experiences like the one that i had with this device have shown me that writing a manual that is both informative and easy to follow is truly a fine art. Sean
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I have the next-to-the-top of the line Panasonic (PV-4622), and it's pretty easy to use. I haven't had any problems doing anything with it, and it's less than $100, if you dig a little on price-comparison sites. Oh, by the way...for some reason, it never dawned on me that Sean might have gear that he isn't happy with. Hmmmm.
Brian: I'm capable of making the same mistakes that anyone else can. I rushed into purchasing this unit and now i feel the pain from my lack of research. As such, i'll chalk this one up to being a bonehead and move forward with ( hopefully ) a lesson learned. Luckily, this "lesson" did not set me back several thousand dollars : ) Sean
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I bought a panasonic about 1 year ago and nobody can figure it out! I have a few degrees in physics and a pharmacy degree so I'm not technically challenged. The manual is inscrutable and I don't feel like starting a research project to master it. It replaced a 10 year old sony which was a breeze to use & program. I tried getting it back but the guy I gave it to wouldn't trade for the new one!