Replacing the excellent PVR9200T is this model - the PVR9200TB - which is essentially the same PVR in black with a Freeview Playback badge slapped on the front.

First impressions are misleading, as the PVR9200TB is nothing special looks-wise in its black box construction. Similarly, connections aren't anything to get excited about, as its outputs comprise just two Scarts (one RGB), two analogue stereo, composite video and optical digital. There is, however, a USB port for data transfer to and from the PC, a phono output for vinyl freaks and a CAM slot for Top Up TV.

Ace in the hole

Despite the slightly disappointing connectivity, lacking component video outputs and even S-video, its twin digital tuners are the aces up its sleeve. This digital duo (both fed from the same aerial lead) give you the flexibility to watch one channel while recording another or record from two separate channels at the same time.

The PVR9200TB's functions are also versatile, with picture-in-picture of two feeds and the ability to view a previous recording from the 160GB hard drive while recording two others. A 'chasing playback' feature would have been a nice bonus, but the PVR9200TB does incorporate a timeshift function, which gives you the option of pausing live TV and being able to watch up to 2hrs of shifted footage.

Irritating commercial breaks are at the mercy of the PVR9200TB's editing scythe, as basic editing can be performed directly on the machine. The bookmarking feature is also neat.

Even with these many features, the PVR9200TB is no slouch, operating with a speed that leaves competitors for dust, taking the slow grind out of channel hopping, menu access and seven-day EPG use. Teletext also appears with an alarming quickness.

The PVR9200TB keeps the ease of use flag flying when it comes to setting recordings. The touch of a button records what you're currently viewing or you can select any programme on the EPG, which also has a categorised search function. Recordings retain the format of the original broadcast - if the programme's in widescreen, it'll record in widescreen.

Picture quality can be a little more of a wild card, however, at the mercy of Freeview broadcasts which can range from razor-sharp to clumpily hazy, but the PVR9200TB does the best with what its given, blessed with some impressive amplified signal-boosting technology.

Broadcast news

Recordings themselves are near broadcast quality, albeit with some minor blocking around edges, especially on fast motion, but not obviously distracting. Colours impress too, being a rainbow of vibrancy. Sound is exceptional through either analogue or digital connections, too.

The PVR9200TB is a pleasure to use and provides a superb visual and aural experience. Its speed puts other PVRs to shame and the inclusion of a USB port is a step in the right direction for archiving a variety of material. All in all, the PVR9200TB is a superb performer and proves the notion that looks can be deceiving.