DVD Recorder...

[has]

I'm taking the plunge & finally going to buy one. However, my tele is only an analogue at the mo. Would the DVD Recorder still just plug into the tv (via a scart lead?) & would everything work OK?

[Buenchico]

All current models of DVD recorders should have a digital tuner built into them. (Just look for a 'Freeview' label to be sure).

When you connect the DVD recorder to your TV, your TV might automatically recognise the new incoming signal and switch to its 'AV' setting, so that you'll see the output from the DVD recorders tuner on your TV. Alternatively, you might have to press the 'AV' button on your TV's handset. (Note: Different TV manufacturer use different labels for 'AV'. Your TV handset might label the button as 'AV', 'Aux', 'Ext', 'Line in', 'In' or similar).

Once your TV set is displaying the output of the DVD recorder's tuner, you'll be able to watch Freeview channels. (That, of course, assumes that you're in a Freeview reception area, with a good enough aerial). i.e. the DVD recorder will do the same job as a Freeview 'digibox'. You'll change channels by using the DVD recorder's remote control, rather than the TV one.

You'll be able to record Freeview channels simply by programming the DVD recorder through its handset. You should note, however, that you won't be able to watch one Freeview channel while recording another. To do so would require two digital tuners (and you'll only have one). You will, though, be able to watch analogue TV (until your local transmitter is turned off) while recording Freeview.

Chris

[has]

Many thanks for the brilliant answer Chris, much appreciated & now I'm better informed.

[Postdog]

Is there a specific reason for wanting a DVD recorder?

The reason I ask is that I get the impression you are unsure of what is out there, in which case you might not be aware of Freeview PVR's. These work in the same way as a Sky + box, but for Freeview, not sky.

There are differing models, but many come with twin freeview tuners, allowing you to record two freeview chanels (or record one, watch one) at the same time, or even record and watch a recording at the same time.

The other beauty of these is that recording is on hard drive, and, depending on the size you get, hold hours of programmes.