Request info on Panasonic DVD/PCR

[Johnccollins]

This may be a little off topic but since I would hope to use it to make 
video DVDs and possibly for archiving video clips, I hope it will fit 
in. I am looking to buy a combo DVD/hard drive recorder for use 
primarily with TV cable ( I am moving back to Cable from the Dish 
system and plan to sell the Dish stuff on eBay). We have been using the 
Dish 508 PVR and it is really great--have been spoiled by the 
convenience of recording to HD.

So Panasonic's current model (discontinued but still available) is the 
DMR-HS2 which has a 40G HD, records to DVD-R and DVD-RAM, but no DV in 
(does have S-vid i/o). Generally it is now available for around $500. 
Buying this kind of unit avoids the monthly charges connected with 
other systems such as TIVO etc.

But, of course, the new model is more to my liking--120 G and same DVD 
recording but with DV (FW) in. So my questions are:
	1. Does anybody on the list have any experience with the DMR-HS2 and 
is there anyway to use it with a computer video output?
	2. Will the DV/FW input work for my objectives on the new model? It 
does not have DV out but my understanding is that since FW is 2 way--I 
should be able to go both ways. Are there any problems that I haven't 
thought of?
	3. If the answer to #2 is OK, what are the limits on FW cable length? 
--the physical location is not that convenient.
	4. Does any body know of a better way of accomplishing my plans. That 
is to combine the TV  HD recording features with my desire to have the 
DVD burner for video.

Oh yes, I forgot to mention the new model DMR-E100HS runs $900 up to 
about 1200 list.


John in Tucson
G3 B&W 450 w/1 Gb ram
OS X.2.6