The rise of DVD and the continuing popularity of the traditional VCR has given birth to a new home entertainment product, the DVD/VCR combo. Check out some of my picks in this new alternative to the home theater mix. Toshiba has been in the forefront in affordable DVD players and VCRs. The SDV296 DVD Player/VCR combo, combines a DVD player with DVD/CD/DVD-R/RW file compatibility and all the analog and digital AV outputs you need, including progressive scan video output and digital coaxial audio output for DVD playback, along with a fully functional 4 Head HiFi Stereo VCR. If you are replacing that old VCR, get a VCR and DVD player in one. NOTE: An external DTV converter box or a cable/satellite box with composite video output is required for recording television programming.

Anyone wanting a low cost DVD/VCR combo unit without sacrificing quality needs to look no further than the Toshiba SD-V392 DVD Video Player & Video Cassette Recorder. Complete with front A/V connections and front LCD display box, the SD-V392 is a great addition to any home entertainment system because of its looks, performance and cost. It is easy to use, and has a user's manual that will troubleshoot almost any problem.