Sony SLV-D380P

Test each half separately

A working DVD tray says nothing about VHS loading or tape playback. Ask for a demonstration of both functions and verify that switching between DVD and VCR actually produces picture and sound.

The manual describes recording from connected equipment. Do not assume DVD recording, a modern digital tuner or unrestricted disc-to-tape copying merely because the case contains two media mechanisms.

Use a VHS-capable output

Sony explicitly warns that the VCR signal is not supplied through its DVD-only component video and digital audio connections. For VHS, start with the shared analog line A/V connection described in the operating instructions.

For an HDMI-only television, conversion must begin with the VHS-capable analog output. Buying a converter for a DVD-only output will not recover the tape signal. Verify RMT-V504A or another remote against exact-model evidence before purchase.

• Connect a VCR to a modern TV
• Check a used VCR before buying

Used-equipment cautions

Inspect the cassette path from outside and ask for clean ejection. If DVD works but VHS is blank, check mode selection and cable choice before assuming the tape heads have failed.

The cabinet contains electrical hazards and a laser assembly. Leave internal work to a qualified technician; no internal adjustment or cleaning procedure is recommended here.