There are three preset recording-quality modes, which trade length for image quality, and there's also a manual mode that allows you to select the highest possible quality according to the space available.
Using the eight-day programme guide that accompanies the digital tuner is the simplest way to set recordings, as all you need do is highlight the programme from the guide and the rest is done for you. The colourful guide is well presented and lets you view schedules for 12 channels at a time with the usual programme information. There are also one-touch, manual or VideoPlus+ options and you can set up to 32 different recordings at once.
The attractive icon-based menu system makes it incredibly easy to format, search, edit and playback recordings using a full range of functions. You can store hard drive recordings in titled folders and view them as thumbnails to make archiving easier. There are multiple editing functions that can be accessed when recording using VR mode -- including chapter divides, creating playlists or even combining copies. Comprehensive short cut keys on the versatile remote save you from unnecessarily entering the menus. Put simply, whether you are new to digital recording or not, operation is fool-proof.
Performance
Recording quality can only be as good as the original broadcast images produced by the recorder's integrated TV tuner and the RD-85DT is equipped with a perfectly fine Freeview tuner. Digital programmes appear solidly defined and detailed with distinct black levels creating impressive contrast. There is some background instability and colour and shadow gradations occasionally appear pixellated, but these are only slight flaws that are easily ignored.
Recording quality is excellent using all three quality modes. Both the highest quality XP and standard SP modes produce faithful copies that are virtually indistinguishable from the original. Using the lowest quality mode does see a loss of detail, but the difference is smaller than we expected. Sound quality is equally unaffected.
Although DVD images are sent to your television via an analogue connection, the picture is excellent. The same deep black levels produce strongly defined edges with a realistic sense of perspective that isn't lost in dark scenes. Colours are not fantastically vivid, but they do appear natural, especially skin tones. Using component outputs with progressive-scan video intensifies detail and cleans up background shimmer for a performance that equals most dedicated mid-range players.
Edited by Mary Lojkine
Additional editing by Nick Hide
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