How old are the tapes used to record from TV? When I used tape I used to loose track of how many times I'd recorded and erased them.

If replacement is the option you decide to go for, I was advised by a retailer against getting a combined VCR/DVD unit on the premise that if one unit dies you have to replace both. Have you considered a hard drive recorder instead of tape?

On the subject of brands I have several components and appliances made by LG which are giving good service for a reasonable price.