The LED display doesn't show you nearly as much as with more expensive machines. You can't tell if you're recording SP or EP, for example. Just record something and see how fast goes on Rewind or Fast Forward.

Another interesting "feature" is that when I hit the "menu" button on the remote, it doesn't work unless I hit "play" first. That's just plain weird.

So, the lesson is that if you want a cheesy, minimal machine that's a pain to use, spend a little money. I which I had spent more and I will on my next VCR, if I buy another one.

holy crap! (Rating: 5.00)
Review : you all must have faulty models or early models or something, because this vcr is the best one i've ever had! the picture is amazing! the sound is very good. i like how you can switch the audio options from stereo to mono. this was good since i use this vcr on a mono speakered daewoo 13" tv. before the daewoo, i had it on a huge 20" 1983 sanyo model. it gave even that heap o' junk good sound and picture. i have had no problems with this vcr since the day i bought it exactly 1 year and 4 months ago. there is an rf problem when you turn the vcr off and on, but i don't care. i just leave it on all the time. i don't care if i can't control my tv with the remote. i can just use my tv remote.

great vcr at a great price. if you are looking for a great low-priced stereo vcr and you happen to come across this one, buy it immediately! i'm serious!