Sharp packs DVD, DVR, tapes into one

Sharp on Thursday revitalized its AQUOS video recorders with the DV-ACV52. The Japanese firm's hybrid device can record and output most video in just about any modern storage format: a digital TV tuner captures over-the-air HD broadcasts to a 250GB hard drive, including on a schedule for DVR functionality; the same drive can be used to store video recorded from its DVD drive, VHS deck, and DV or HDV cameras attached through an integrated FireWire (i.Link) jack. The system can also write to either DVD discs or VHS tapes.

Output for full HD sources is provided through HDMI as well as the Japan-specific D4 port. RCA and S-video handle analog video, and audio is piped either through standard RCA output or an optical link.

This latest addition to Sharp's recorders is set to debut in its native country on May 21st, when it will ship for $925. A US launch is less than likely given the company's near-exclusive focus on TVs in the country. [via Akihabara]