Streaming Networks iRecord

The idea of iRecord is exceptionally appealing: Plug the brainlessly simple device into your video source (receiver, VCR, DVD player, what-have-you), and attach any USB device (iPod, PSP, or thumbdrive) to the integrated USB port. Push the record button and the iRecord encodes the analog video into digital format and plops it on your drive. Sadly, the idea of the iRecord translates badly into the real world. Audio and video output are both poor: Picture quality is limited to a fuzzy 320 x 240 pixels and audio is plagued with loud buzzes and artifacts. Plus, the lack of pass-through ports means you'll need a moderately sophisticated A/V setup if you actually want to see and hear what you're recording while you're recording it. The final insult: At $200, the iRecord is about $170 overpriced.

WIRED Encodes files in iPod-friendly H.264/MP4 (video) or MP3 (audio) format. Simple to use, with only power and record buttons. Records from any analog source, including copy-protected media like DVDs.

TIRED Only standard-definition content supported, and can't downscale: Only includes RCA and S-video inputs. Without a pass-through port you'll probably need an A/V receiver to use it properly. Buggy functionality, with abrupt "drive full" errors when our drive was 97 percent empty. Cheap, plastic body. Puts lame, five-second "iRecord" logo overlay at beginning of every recording.

• Video Components: Media streaming and storage
• Manufacturer: Streaming Networks
• Price: $200