Digital Trends

Pioneer DVR-633H-S

September 19th, 2005 | by Douglas MacLean

Conclusions

Overall, this unit performed very well, and with a price around $450 it is a good purchase.  At the most superficial level, the unit looks good with its slim profile, and it fits in with any home theater system.  For the more substantial aspects, the performance was above average.  On the pro side, features like the large hard drive and dual layer DVD burning support will make this the centerpiece of your home theater.  There was great attention to details and user satisfaction, as demonstrated by the online help and free inclusion of the TV Guide system.  The major drawback is that only a few of the recording modes are practical; most of the ones that provide a lot of storage do not provide great playback, but that is more a restriction of the technology than the unit.  The G-Link was just about useless in practical use.  If you have kids or pets, it will be moved to the point where it will not function (and taping it down just seemed a bit messy). 

If you are looking for a digital recorder to replace that aging VCR, then this is one to seriously consider.  While a bit higher priced than other units, the performance justified the cost.