Sony SLV-779HF Hi-Fi VHS VCR

Sony HiFi Stereo VCR with VCR+, MTS Stereo TV reception, Auto Head Cleaner, Multibrand TV Remote Control and Cable Box Mouse Satellite Control System, Front audio/video inputs, trilingual on-screen menus, frame advance/slow motion, auto channel set, 8 event/1month program timer, 181 cable ready tuner

For quick setup and a clear picture, Sony's SLV-779HF is a cut above bargain basement VCRs. This model's expanded features will even satisfy home-theater buffs looking for brand-name quality at a reasonable price.

Sony has made this VCR surprisingly simple to set up. With the help of color-coded wire hookups, it took us only about 10 minutes to connect this unit to a stereo TV. Direct cable portals also enabled a quick and easy start-up. The SLV-779HF also has a self-setting clock to avoid the infamous flashing "12:00" on your VCR. We noticed that the display is also large enough to read from across the room, a great feature for the couch-potato crowd.

The unit offers much more than just recording and playback features. To take full advantage of functions beyond basic play, you may need to consult the hefty but well-written 100-page manual. One of the more practical extras is an on-screen icon bar that lets you know how far along you are in a movie. Controlled through the remote, the bar corresponds with a time code that lets you easily access a particular spot on the tape. Menus are available in English, Spanish, and French. This VCR is also equipped with the popular VCR Plus+ feature, which allows you to record your favorite TV programs by entering printed PlusCode numbers from your local TV listings.

You can also preset channels and hook up the unit to a cable box, DSS receiver, or VHF/UHF antenna. Front jacks allow you to record, edit, and play back tapes from a camcorder or second VCR.

The remote control is slim and easy to hold, but some of the basic functions may prove confusing for users. While it's fairly simple to navigate the various functions, there is no Enter button that lets you execute specific tasks. Instead, the Play button performs this function. We spent a few frustrating moments searching for an Enter or similar button before realizing this.

The above-average audio and video performance of the Sony SLV-779HF makes this VCR a solid buy in its price range.

Pros:

• Excellent picture quality
• Easy basic setup
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Thorough but daunting instruction manual

This four-head Sony VCR contains all the extras, including VCR Plus+ programming, auto channel programming, auto clock set, and parental control. Sony SmartSearch makes it easier than ever to zip past commercials and coming attractions. Press the button once to go into high-speed picture search. Press again and the VCR stops, rewinds a few seconds, and plays. This VCR also contains Active Picture Control, which tests each tape and adjusts both playback and recording for high picture sharpness and low video noise.