Argos buying guide to tv and recordings - 3 of 5

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Recording Introduction

With a DVD recorder you can build up a library of your favourite television shows, using blank DVD discs. DVD-R and DVD+R discs give you a low-cost way to make permanent recordings, since they can only be used once. DVD-RW, DVD+RW, and the rarer DVD-RAM can be used over and over again. Most DVD recorders can use any type of disc, but it is advisable to check compatibility.

For the best of both worlds, choose a DVD combi recorder – a DVD recorder with a hard disk too. You'll be able to build your library of DVDs, but also record, pause, or rewind TV without a blank DVD in the recorder. And wherever you see the Freeview logo, the recorder can receive Freeview channels too.

You also get the benefits of the Electronic Programme Guide found in all digital TV recorders. So you have the choice of recording a show on the hard disk, then backing it up to DVD if you want to keep it.

Of course, all DVD and combi recorders can play back commercial DVDs too. But if you want to experience the new High Definition formats, consider a HD-DVD
or Blu-ray player. Both types use the highest High Definition image quality – 1080 lines – for amazing pictures and sound. These discs hold much more information than normal DVDs, meaning there's potential for even more interactive features and extra content. Sony’s Playstation 3 comes with a built-in Blu-ray disc player.

For more on High Definition, click here.

Digital TV recorders are incredibly easy to use. You just select the programmes you want to record from a guide on screen – and there's no fast forwarding or rewinding when you want to watch them! Best of all, they receive digital signals, so they'll let you use older non-digital TVs even beyond the digital switchover.

Confused by the digital switchover? Click here for the facts.

Digital TV recorders use a hard disk to store the programmes you want. They work with an Electronic Programme Guide (EPG), an onscreen TV listing – all you have to do is pick the programmes to record with your remote, up to a week or more ahead. It's simple.

Where you see the Freeview logo, it means the recorder can receive Freeview channels – giving you up to 70 TV and radio stations without needing a separate set top box.

With Freeview playback digital TV recorders you can pause live TV broadcasts by simply pressing a button – you can even rewind the channel to create your very own instant replays – great for when your team's just scored!

Whatever you choose from our range, you're guaranteed an exciting viewing experience for years to come!