The person who recommended getting a different unit with a tuner in it is correct.

there is absolutely no other way!!!! Cause I really dont want to spend 200 or more for one.

It would be helpful to know the brand & model #'s of the TV & VCR.

You could buy an outboard tv tuner. But that would cost as much to buy as the dvd/vcr unit with a tuner. And probably be a PITA to operate.

The reason the tuner units are a bit more expensive is that buy federal law they need to include both the regular analog tuner and the newer digital or HDTV tuner.

You do know that on February 19, 2009 that the regular analog broadcasts will be turned off. After that date the only over the air broadcasting will be done digitally. The analog tuners won't receive anything. You will then have to buy a tuner adapter or a new digital tuner unit anyway.

So, either buck up now and buy the digital tuner model you really want or scout around on eBay and buy a used analog tuner model.

OK, Here is my question. I have a great plasma TV, have cable TV and receive the signal through a cable converter box. I want to get a DVD/VCR recorder combo mainly to put some old VHS onto DVD. Is there any advantage to getting one with a tuner vs one without a tuner? I have found the better deals on the ones with a tuner, but they are still slightly more than ones without and don't know if there is any reason for me spend the extra few dollars. thanks in advance