If you want to use DVD-RAM, you're limited to XP and SP mode.
The other modes create video that is not to the DVD-Video spec, but rather to the DVD-VR spec. A common DVD-VR "less than 720" resolution is
480x480, which can't be watched in a standard DVD player. In "video mode", the DVD recorder records in the standard DVD-compliant 352x480 resolution.
I mostly use DVD recorders as convenient replacements for computers with capture cards. And the better DVD recorders (like this JVC) come with the added benefit of noise reduction, removing both chroma and grain noise. This same kind of NR is just not really possible with a computer card, especially the chroma noise removal.
After the DVDs are recorded, I often rip them to a computer, edit as needed, re-author (either with nice menus or as a menu-less disc), and then re-burn to archival media
... and save an ISO to an external archive hard drive.
That's my workflow, when using a DVD recorder.
There have also been issues with DVD-VR recording on the JVC decks. The
IRE can be pronouncedly lighter when using DVD-VR mode -- the source of many "my JVC is too washed out" complaints. I learned about this early on, back in summer 2004.
Since I only have about 60 DVD-RW, and can run out during busy times, it's not uncommon to use Verbatim 16x discs, and just throw them away when the project is done. For other times, the discs are used for samples, tests and other temporary needs. So I guarantee Mitsubishi-manufacturer 1x-16x Verbatim DVD-R work in the JVC lineage of LSI Logic chipset recorders, using at least several per month. Yours just does not want to cooperate for some reason. I wish I knew why.
I have about 10 DVD-RAM discs, Panasonic branded, forget the manufacturer and media ID. Discs are circa 2004. These get used only rarely.
Glad to know you're a 5-year reader/member, dyfan.
You've seen a lot of changes here, and you're about to see several more.
