Panasonic DMR-EX97

Record two programmes simultaneously in HD, Since it has two tuners, the EX97 can record two different programmes at once. So there’s no need to worry about missing anything when two programmes overlap.

Easy settings for all your favourite series, TV series recording. By registering TV programs such as dramas with the Series recording function, they can be automatically recorded and stored each time they are broadcast. They can be automatically recorded and stored each time they are broadcast. This eliminated the possibility of forgetting to record each program, and lets you watch the programs at any preferred time.

High speed start up – Easy & Quick Operation. Improved processing speeds in the latest Panasonic DVD recorders mean that even traditionally slow operations like calling up the electronic Programme guides and direct navigator or opening the disc tray now happen almost instantly.

Unlock your stored content – External HDD Playback through USB - Panasonic DVD Recorders and home theatre systems are able to directly access content stored on external hard disk drives without the need for an intermediary PC/ This content can be music, photo or video files.

The DMR-EX97 is a Freeview hard disk recorder with DVD-recording functionality, which allows you to archive TV recordings and files onto disc. It’s aimed at those who like to make backup discs of their treasured programmes and hi-def camcorder videos.

There’s a 500GB hard disk on board and twin Freeview tuners that let you record one channel and watch another.

This is a brand new device which has been opened to check and make sure that the contents are all there.

The DMR-EX97 is well-made – the chassis and casing are fashioned from aluminium and it’s solidly bolted together. 

Jet-black styling with little flecks of silver give the unit a tasteful, understated look that should blend in nicely with other kit under your TV.

Pull down the flap and you’ll uncover a USB port that not only lets you play MPEG2, MP4, XviD, MKV, JPEG, MPO, MP3 and AAC files from flash drives, but also lets you connect an external HDD and increase storage capacity. On the rear is a simple range of sockets, including HDMI output, an Ethernet and RF in/out for the Freeview tuners.

Panasonic DMR-EX97 – Features

Twin Freeview HD tuners allow you to record one channel and watch another, or record two channels simultaneously. Unlike some PVRs, you can’t watch a third channel while recording two, which is rather restricting. However, you can flick between the two channels being recorded, or watch a recording from the start. Features such as Series Recording and Pause/Rewind live TV make it nigh-on impossible to miss the programmes you love. 

Programmes can be recorded onto the 500GB in their original quality, or you can choose different recording modes that reduce the quality while increasing recording time. In DR mode, programmes are recorded at the highest bit rate (15Mbps), allowing you to fit up to 129 hours of HD programmes onto the HDD, or 258 hours of SD. 

Setup is quick and easy – just hook up your aerial and HDMI, power it up and the installation wizard runs you through each step of the process. Channel tuning begins automatically and takes around three minutes.
 
It’s also worth noting that the DMR-EX97 is incredibly fast in operation. It boots up from standby in a few seconds and fires up tricky menu screens such as the EPG and video menu in one second flat. It also flips up and down channels and starts recording instantly.