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Monday, January 26th, 2026

Record from Direct tv to vcr

Is there a way to record from direct tv HCR C71W mini genie to a vcr?

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Community Support

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255.7K Messages

17 hours ago

Yes, there is, @mumado. To record from a DIRECTV C71W Genie Mini to a VCR, you will need Composite AV cables (Red/White/Yellow). Please note that recordings will be limited to Standard Definition (480i).

How to Record:

1. Match Inputs: Set your TV to the VCR’s input (e.g., Video 2). Then, set your VCR to the input connected to your Genie Mini (e.g., Line 1).
2. Adjust Resolution: Press the RES button on your receiver until it is set to 480i.
3. Start Recording: Simply press Record on your VCR to capture the current program.

Scheduled Recordings:

- Single Program: Leave your receiver on the desired channel and set your VCR timer to record the correct input (e.g., Line 1) at the scheduled time.
- Multiple Programs: Use the Auto Tune feature on your receiver to ensure it switches channels automatically, then set your VCR timer to record those specific times. Charles, DIRECTV Community Team

ACE - Expert

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23.4K Messages

15 hours ago

To clarify the DirecTV C71KW is NOT a Mini Genie. It is a Client but that is the Gemini, because of the dual/twin status of being the only box that can use streaming apps.

Remember you'll be recording in real-time so that tuner from the main Genie will be in use while the recording is playing.

(edited)

ACE - Sage

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46.7K Messages

11 hours ago

The challenge you'll have with the C71K is that it does not have composite (analog) video outputs to feed your VCR. You'll need an HDMI-to-composite video adapter. 

ACE - Expert

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23.4K Messages

8 hours ago

If you have a regular Genie, or an actual Mini Genie Client, then some of those have options with A/V (including dongle on DirecTV side to traditional 3-plug on TV side). Genie-2 (HS17) your only option is whatever Clients can do.


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