Blu-ray Recorders
Blu-ray recorders combine high-definition playback and TV program recording. These devices play 4K UHD Blu-ray, HD Blu-ray, and DVD discs while recording your favorite shows to an internal hard drive or a rewritable disc. Equipped with a dual DTT tuner, they allow you to record two programs simultaneously or watch one channel while recording another. Learn more
High-definition playback and recording
A Blu-ray recorder stands out from a simple player thanks to its recording capability. The device captures the HD DTT signal to archive your movies, series, and documentaries directly onto its internal hard drive, typically ranging from 500 GB to 1 TB depending on the model. This storage capacity lets you keep several dozen hours of high-definition content.
Recent models include a dual tuner that offers real flexibility in use. You can record two channels in parallel, or watch one program while another records in the background. No more scheduling conflicts between your favorite shows.
Compatibility and supported formats
These devices ensure full backward compatibility with your older media: DVD, audio CD, and of course all Blu-ray formats (4K UHD, 1080p HD, 3D). Most Blu-ray recorders also play media files from a USB flash drive or external hard drive: MKV, AVI, MP4 videos; FLAC, WAV, MP3 music; and JPEG photos.
Picture technologies and 4K upscaling
4K UHD upscaling is a major asset. The video processor analyzes and enhances the resolution of SD, HD, or Full HD content to display it in Ultra HD on your 4K TV. The result is a more detailed and natural image, even with your older DVDs.
HDR (High Dynamic Range) formats such as HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision are supported by high-end models. These technologies improve contrast and the dynamic range of colors for an image closer to what the human eye perceives.
High-resolution audio
The Blu-ray recorder decodes advanced audio formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby TrueHD, and DTS-HD Master Audio. Connected to a compatible soundbar or home theater amp, it delivers immersive multichannel sound. Some models also support playback of high-resolution audio files (DSD, ALAC) for audiophiles.
Choosing and using
Your choice of Blu-ray recorder depends on your needs. The hard drive capacity determines how many programs you can archive. Support for various HDR formats matters if you have a compatible TV. The presence of streaming apps can replace a secondary TV box.
The user interface has evolved to simplify recording schedules. Some models offer keyword search to automatically record your favorite series, regardless of their time slot.
