I mean the set-top kind as opposed to for your computer. I was considering getting a recorder so I could get some of the stuff off my DVR, and also maybe to put some of my VHS on DVD. I have no intention, as far as I know, of breaking the law - just asking about the DRM situation with these devices. Is there anything on them to keep me from recording stuff from my DVR? How about commercial DVDs?
You can’t digitally copy a DVD with a DVD recorder. Many DVD recorders respect Macrovision copy protection, so recording a VHS tape can be a problem. However, any DVDs you create will be free of DRM.