While most low-priced VCRs feature small enclosures that look awkward next to other components, the W607 has a full-size chassis finished in an attractive dark gray. Its controls are laid out symmetrically around a central tape slot and luminescent display, producing an attractive combination of visual elegance, functional simplicity, and intuitive operation.

For easy connection of a camcorder or video game, a small, hinged door in the lower left-hand corner conceals a set of gold-plated video and stereo audio inputs. In addition, a prominent round button facilitates one-touch recording.

The W607 delivered some of the best-looking, sweetest-sounding movie experiences of any budget VCR we've tested. Images were rich and detailed with low noise and vibrant colors, although a slightly reddish tint to flesh tones indicated that the picture was definitely on the warm, bluish side. A softening of small background objects suggested a marginal loss of detail compared to more expensive decks.

As you might expect from a four-head machine, special effects (fast play, slow play and still frame) were clear and stable, with little image "jump" during freeze-frame viewing.

Given the growing popularity of home theater, the W607's excellent audio quality is a powerful asset. With both stereo and Dolby Pro Logic videos, the sonic presentation tested the boundaries of our listening room. From the shuddering bass of earthquakes through the most delicate, high-pitched tinkle of breaking glass, the audio spectrum was reproduced with a precision unusual in this price range.

Clearly, Toshiba has outfitted this machine with an extremely capable tuner; standard network programming through the W607's tuner yielded a noticeable improvement in audio and video quality