Buying a VCR in 2021

[drfsupercenter]

My trusty JVC SVHS deck with the built-in TBC has been broken some time, so I think it's time to get another one.

Most of the models on the VCR buying guide are very expensive ($500+) now because they're so old and sought after.

I found a couple JVC HM-DH30000U for less than most of the other SVHS models - D-VHS is supposed to be even better, right?

But I've also read some of lordsmurf's posts where he says the 30000U isn't that good - so I'm curious why it's on the list.

Are some of the SVHS decks better than the 30000U? Is there anything *bad* about the 30000U? Can anyone find one of the preferred models for less?

I need NTSC btw.

Edit: One of the 30000U sellers gave me an offer, that would be right around $300 shipped for a working one.

That's like $200 less than the next model on the list, assuming I'm not buying "for parts" units. I'm just concerned by some of the posts from 10 years ago saying there are reasons to not buy that.