Plextor Convertx PVR

This isn't the first time we've seen a Plextor Convertx PVR. This latest upgrade includes all the features found on its predecessor, but now comes with an integrated analogue TV tuner.

As well as being able to take an input from this tuner the Convertx accepts signals via S-video and composite connections, so you could connect it to your Freeview or Sky box to record digital channels.

A fully-featured remote control is included along with a Scart-to-composite adapter. Set-up is easy, and we had the Convertx hooked up to receive signals via composite video and analogue TV signals in minutes.

The video can then be converted to a variety of preset formats on the fly, including many versions of Divx.

Intervideo's WinDVR handles the recording process. It's not the most user-friendly software, but the basic settings are relatively easy to master.

The Convertx falls down a little when it comes to scheduling recordings. Although it will happily change channels when a recording is due if you're using an analogue aerial input, things get more complicated when sourcing the video from a Freeview or satellite set-top box, because it has no way of changing the channel from an external source.

Media Center PCs get around this by using an infrared blaster that mimics the set-top box's remote control to change channels. An infrared blaster isn't currently available for the Convertx.

If you want a quick method of transferring video and recording analogue TV shows to your PC, the Convertx gets the job done with the minimum of fuss, but the addition of an infrared blaster, or digital TV tuner, would greatly increase its appeal.