No they are not as advanced as pc's. They will not remove the encyption off the dvd. Nor will they shrink the dvd to fit from a dvd-9 to a dvd-5. Use a pc.
They will with a video stabilizer. I user DVD RedPro. There are less expensive ones. I learned after already purchased.
Its true they won't strip the CSS/Macro, but with a good stabilizer they are an effective backup tool. You obviously don't get the same menus, but they do make one (menu). I've found that a 3hr+ movie sometimes looks better recorded on LP speed than it does Shrunk under 50%. The VHS is quite easier than a PC. (My 1st post!!)
ohhh but they will if you get a Macrovision decoder box!! Do a google and you will be surprised. here is a couple links http://www.facetvideo.com/xcart/customer/home.php http://www.stardevelopment.com/index.htm These work just like the old VCR ones.. You put the Video cable into the box and run a Video cable out to your recorder.. Simple and it works ;-)
I knew about the clarifiers,I just didnt know if they worked well or not.You can find them on e-bay for dirt cheap. Thanks for the tip,BB,and bud