Video recorders are available with a choice of two sound systems:

Mono - is the single band sound system of more basic video recorders. All recordings or videos played back through a mono video will be reproduced in mono even if the machine is connected to a stereo TV

Nicam - will record and playback programmes in crystal clear Nicam stereo sound allowing you to enjoy full rich stereo sound effects when connected to a Nicam stereo TV using a scart lead. Alternatively a Nicam video can be connected to a stereo Hi-Fi system.

Video + - is a system that allows you to pre-program your machine to record TV programmes. In most TV listing magazines and newspaper listings every programme is designated a specific code number. By entering these codes into your video's memory using the remote control, it will automatically activate the record function so you'll never have to miss a favourite show or scramble around for the instruction manual again.

PCD (Programme Delivery Control) - can automatically adjust your timer recording instructions to make sure that you record all the programme you want - even if it starts late or overruns due to an unexpected change to a broadcasters schedule such as a news flash or extra time in the football.

Tape Library System - lets you keep track of what's on your tapes by storing date, time and details of what's been recorded.

Set top box control - can be easily programmed to change channels on your digital set top box. This means you can programme your video to record more than one digital channel while you are out.

The picture quality of your video is determined by the amount of "heads" it has.

Two head video - More basic machines feature a two head mechanism and produce standard quality pictures that are perfectly adequate for every day viewing.

Four head video -Four head video recorders produce a better quality picture than their more basic rivals and they also allow better control over the tape for improved pause and still frame activity. All Nicam stereo machines include the better four head system as standard.

Super VHS (S-VHS) - For the ultimate in video quality you may wish to consider an S-VHS video. Programmes recorded on an S-VHS tape in an S-VHS machine will be as near to professional quality video as you are ever likely to get from a home video recorder. Pictures show more horizontal lines of resolution giving a much sharper on-screen image.

These will be offered to you after you choose to buy a video recorder. Please note you will only be offered products that are compatible with the product you have bought.

Scart leads - Nearly all new televisions, video recorders and DVD players have scart sockets. This means that you can connect them together easily, and get full sound and visual capability. Even if your new purchase comes with a scart lead you may require an extra one to be able to connect to extra units such as a satellite or cable system. You may want to maximize your video recorders capability by buying a "Gold" scart lead. On these scart leads, the connectors are gold plated and the inner conductors are oxygen free - thereby maximizing the sound and vision potential AND ensuring durability over time. Obviously the length of cable will also make a difference to cost.

Phono leads - Enables you to connect your video to your stereo (with the appropriate connections on your stereo) for premium sound quality.

Video head cleaner - Tapes can leave magnetised particles on the heads of video recorders, which may cause a loss of picture and audio quality. Comet advise using a head cleaner after every 25 hours of use to ensure high quality sound and picture reproduction.

Video tapes - Tapes should be replaced regularly, to avoid damaging your new video player and also to enhance the quality of your recording.
The E180 has 3 hours of recording/playback and comes in a pack of 4.
The E240 has 4 hours of recording/playback and comes in pack of 3.