Other Source Component Reviews

Connections
Outputs:
Video: Component video (1), S-video (1), composite video (1)
Audio: Coaxial digital (1), optical digital (1), analog stereo (1)
Inputs:
Video: Composite video (2), S-video (2)
Audio: Analog stereo (2)
Additional: Four-pin IEEE 1394 (1), RF in (1)/out (1)

Features
Compatible Recording Formats: DVD-R/-RW, DVD+R/+RW, DVD+R DL
Compatible Playback Formats: DVD-R/-RW, DVD+R/+RW, DVD+R DL, CD, CD-R/-RW, Video CD, Super Video CD, MPEG-4, DivX, MP3, WMA, WAV, JPEG, BMP
Possible Recording Resolutions: 480i
Possible Playback Resolutions: 480p/480i
Built-in Decoding: None
Video Digital-to-Analog Converter: 10-bit/27-MHz
Audio Digital-to-Analog Converter: 24-bit/96-kHz
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 2.6 x 16.9 x 12.4
Weight (pounds): 9.9

Ratings: LiteOn HD-A740GX HDD/DVD Recorder

Build Quality: 86
• The HD-A740GX is one heavy deck
• The remote, meanwhile, feels like it could float away

Value: 88
• 400 clams was once a bargain for a DVD recorder; now it also nets a DVR with an audio/video/photo jukebox

Features: 87
• Outstanding multimedia capabilities, a DVD burner, and a large hard drive
• It needs a newer, deeper, richer program guide, or even Internet connectivity

Performance: 84
• DVD playback is mediocre at best
• Glitch-free DVD burning and playback of hard-drive content

Ergonomics: 85
• Editing file names takes too long
• Easy Guider and the other proprietary menus are fine

Overall Rating: 86
The HD-A740GX has much to recommend it, from the welcoming interface, to the high-capacity hard drive and the plethora of inputs. Audio/video mavens used to more masterful control might balk, but the attractive price puts multimedia within reach for the average Joe.

General Information
HD-A740GX HDD/DVD Recorder, $399
LiteOn IT
(510) 687-1800
www.liteonit.com/us
Blank media supplied by Ritek Advanced Media
(800) 823-2505
www.ritekusa.com