Sagem DTR64160T

The basics

The Sagem DTR64160T is a standard definition Freeview recorder with 160GB hard drive (for up to 80 hours’ TV) and two tuners. Pause, rewind and chase playback are all possible, with two Scart outputs for multiple connections.

The good

Like a Fairy Godmother waving her wand, this magical media hub transforms your analogue pumpkin of a telly into a high-speed digital chariot. A hefty 160GB of storage can seat four a pinch, while twin tuners mean that Cinderella can go to the ball and still record both Strictly Come Dancing and How Clean Is Your House. The DTR64160T offers series record and digital text access, plus an eight-day programme guide. Stand-by mode sips less than 2W of power and Sagem even chucks in a Scart cable in the box.

The bad

If you’re not home by midnight, you might find the Sagem a bit noisy when recording late night shows, although thankfully it’s whisper quiet in stand-by. There are no HDMI connections or High Def options for this standard definition box.

The bottom line

A simple, dependable set-top box that upgrades the sorriest analogue system to a generous digital TV centre. A great choice for the bedroom or second TV.