Not bad for a first DVD recorder.

I had the ES10 since December of 2005 and have not had a problem with it. The recorder is used daily for timer recordings, backing up some of the favorite videotapes, and interestingly enough - as a music player, which is underused in many applications anyway.

I bought this product as an open-box return unit, it was in good condition and only lacked the flimsy A/V cable. The strong point about this player and others that are capable of, is the ability to record on DVD-RAM discs. Although that particular format is not typically used for archival purposes, the format works well for timeshifting shows and using some special effects, like watching the beginning of a show while it is currently recording. For general archiving purposes, the machine takes DVD-R, -RW, and +R; however, not +RW format discs.

What I like about the ES10 is some of the capabilities using the DVD-RAM disc. Also, I like the eight-hour mode that has passable video quality, since it is like watching a VHS program at EP speed. The eight-hour mode is only chosen at the Setup menu, where a command replaces the six-hour mode (which provides slightly better image quality). The recorder can also be programmed to fully record the disc using variable encoding by time; which a prompt asks you on the program's duration and the recorder fills the whole disc with the time period. The progressive scan (480p) works well for television broadcasts, where the image is noticably improved from 480i. The recorder has three A/V inputs, which is not bad, but possibly a standard these days.

What I do not like about this recorder is the remote. Although the remote is simple to use, it lacks ergonomics and feels noticably crammed - especially by looking at the lettering. The current model DMR-ES15, has an improved remote control with larger buttons and better ergonomics. The tuner is slow to switch channels; which to most will not apply, but if the recorder is used to watch live television programs, it takes about two seconds to switch channels. Direct input requires entering a [0] key and then the number (for channels under 100), otherwise, you must press [Enter] on the remote or the request will be cancelled. If you have an older RF-only television, the ES10 will not switch its signals to RF, but it will pass through the cable signal; you still will have to purchase an A/V to RF converter. The unit is lacking buttons, it lacks skip/search buttons but has the other basic transport buttons; the channel buttons are located beneath the front flip door, next to input 2.

For a first recorder, the DMR-ES10 is a safe bet. Although it has some interface faults, it has been reliable and has not given trouble. Although the ES10 costs slightly more than budget-branded models, at least it won't leave you high and dry when you need to use it.