the AVS dvd recorder section is the best for information and user comments/complaints.
[ invalid url ]
as you're probably aware, spending more on the name brands such as Panasonic, Sony, Samsung won't guarantee a trouble free, reliable recorder, many are 100% pleased with the Funai made recorders from Philips, Magnavox, etc.
Also use only quality media (basically that means only Taiyo Yuden and Verbatim).

[Link]