Good VCR/DVD Recorder machine around $200
 

So my VCR died and ate a few tapes. Yes I still use VCRs to record some shows and most of the time I record a show if I'm not going to be at home and tape over it later. I'm not interested in DVRs since they don't make one that can't be used without a subscription.

I looked at the prices of VCRs and the lowest price of a name brand is $59. I've been looking to transfer all my old taped shows to DVD so I will need a new VCR. Considering the price of the VCRs I saw and the price of a DVD recorder, it is cheaper just to get one combined into one machine. (I have a spindel of DVD+R disks so I'm leaing towards one that uses those) I'm looking for a name brand (Memorax, RCA, Panasonic, Sharp, etc.) so I don't end up with a piece of crap. I'm looking to pick it up in a local store (Walmart, Best Buy, Circuit City, Target) so i don't have to deal with mailing it back if I need to get a replacement.

Any recommendations for ones that range around $200? I've seen there are many there around that range.

Don't sweat it. The good VCRs just aren't made anymore. Pick up whatever, they're now all about the same for build quality and video quality. The only combo units I ever really put ahead of another for video quality were LG/Zenith. Not sure where they fall for pricing, though. Or if they are still superior. I bought a Govideo for $100 (not a DVD burner) since video quality wasn't an issue, it's been fine.

To avoid the tape-eating issue, get a magnetic (dry) VCR cleaner tape and run it every 20-30 hours of use. It will prolong the life of your tapes, and VCR.

I think I just saw a closeout at Ecost.com on a Go Video brand VCR/DVDR for around $129. I don't think it was a refurb, just an older model.