When deciding to purchase a dvd/vcr combo the only things that concern me is the picture quality,ease of operation and the price. This inexpensive easy to use unit has an excellent dvd and vcr picture playback quality that is probably second to none. Remember-This is a dvd player and not a dvd recorder. Also keep in mind that this unit does not have a built in tuner. This means that in order for the unit to function you will need a separate tuner(such as a cable box or satellite box) THAT HAS audio/video jack outputs along with a television THAT HAS audio/video jack inputs. I am sure that the unit being tunerless is what makes for a better picture.

While there is nothing exceptionally bad about Sony SLV-D281P DVD/VCR combo player, there is also nothing exceptionally good about this unit either. Like in the previous reviews, this is a player and not a recorder unless you are using the VCR side. VCR side still function as a recorder as always. There is also no tuner in this unit and thus, there is no cable input or output in this machine. I found that somewhat disappointing and real pain since I usually like to connect my cable to the VCR and then to the TV. Instead, all the connections are done with RCA cables but you have to buy an another set of RCA cables initially since Sony provides only one set of cables. This will allowed you hook up the RCA cables from the cable converter box to this unit. You still need to buy another set to connect this unit to your TV set. In case I forget, you have to buy another set of cables to connect the DVD player half to your TV. Of course, to connect the unit to the audio system will require... Read more

I'm very happy with this player. We use it all day long. I bought it for my 3 year old daughter's room. Her tv is not hooked up to cable. We just use it for her to watch her videos and DVDs. She can watch Sesame Street tapes all day and we keep them playing. This machine is up to the task. Obviously, we haven't recorded on it, but the picture plays very clearly and the sound is great. Remote is easy to use as well. Wonderful seller. Fast shipping. Would recommend.