Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Emerson ZV427EM5 DVD/VCR Combo Recorder/Player. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the unit to ensure proper functionality and to maximize your viewing and recording experience.
Important Safety Information
- Power Source: Connect the unit only to the specified power supply.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit. Do not block ventilation openings.
- Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture to prevent fire or electric shock.
- Servicing: Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Package Contents
Verify that your package contains the following items:
- Emerson ZV427EM5 DVD/VCR Combo Unit
- Universal Remote Control
- AAA Batteries (2) for Remote Control
- AV Cables (Composite Video/Audio)
- Instruction Manual (this document)
Unit Overview
Familiarize yourself with the front and rear panels of the Emerson ZV427EM5.

Figure 1: Front Panel View. This image displays the front of the Emerson ZV427EM5 unit, showing the DVD tray on the right, the VCR slot on the left, and various control buttons and indicators below them. The Emerson logo is visible on the left side.

Figure 2: Front, Rear, and Remote Control. This image provides a comprehensive view, including the front panel of the unit, its rear panel with all connection ports (HDMI, component, composite, coaxial), and the included universal remote control. This helps identify all physical interfaces.
Setup
1. Connecting to a Television
The Emerson ZV427EM5 offers multiple connection options to your television. Choose the best available option for your TV.
HDMI Connection (Recommended for 1080p Output)
- Connect one end of an HDMI cable (not included) to the HDMI OUT port on the rear of the ZV427EM5.
- Connect the other end of the HDMI cable to an available HDMI IN port on your television.
- Select the corresponding HDMI input on your television using its remote control.
Component Video Connection (YPbPr)
- Connect component video cables (red, green, blue) from the COMPONENT VIDEO OUT ports on the ZV427EM5 to the corresponding COMPONENT VIDEO IN ports on your television.
- Connect analog audio cables (red for right, white for left) from the AUDIO OUT (L/R) ports on the ZV427EM5 to the corresponding AUDIO IN (L/R) ports on your television.
- Select the corresponding component input on your television.
Composite Video Connection (Standard AV)
- Connect the yellow video cable from the VIDEO OUT port on the ZV427EM5 to the yellow VIDEO IN port on your television.
- Connect the red and white audio cables from the AUDIO OUT (L/R) ports on the ZV427EM5 to the corresponding AUDIO IN (L/R) ports on your television.
- Select the corresponding AV input on your television.
2. Power Connection
Plug the AC power cord from the ZV427EM5 into a standard electrical outlet.
3. Remote Control Setup
Insert the two AAA batteries into the universal remote control, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
Operating Instructions
Basic DVD Playback
- Press the POWER button to turn on the unit.
- Press the DVD button on the remote or front panel to select DVD mode.
- Press the OPEN/CLOSE button to open the DVD tray.
- Place a DVD disc onto the tray with the label side facing up.
- Press OPEN/CLOSE again to close the tray. The disc will load and playback should begin automatically or display a menu.
- Use the PLAY, PAUSE, STOP, FAST FORWARD, and REWIND buttons for control.
Basic VCR Playback
- Press the POWER button to turn on the unit.
- Press the VCR button on the remote or front panel to select VCR mode.
- Insert a VHS tape into the VCR slot. The unit will automatically load the tape.
- Playback should begin automatically, or you may need to press the PLAY button.
- Use the PLAY, PAUSE, STOP, FAST FORWARD, and REWIND buttons for control.
- To adjust tracking, use the TRACKING buttons on the remote if the picture quality is poor.
Recording from VHS to DVD
This unit allows you to transfer content from VHS tapes to recordable DVD discs.
- Insert the VHS tape you wish to record into the VCR slot.
- Insert a blank recordable DVD (DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW) into the DVD tray.
- Press the VCR button to select VCR mode.
- Press the PLAY button on the VCR to start playing the VHS tape.
- While the VHS tape is playing, press the RECORD button on the remote or front panel. The unit will begin recording the VHS content onto the DVD.
- To stop recording, press the STOP button.
- Finalizing the DVD: After recording, it is crucial to finalize the DVD to make it playable on other DVD players. Refer to the on-screen menu for the "Finalize Disc" option. This process may take several minutes.
Note on Recording Speeds: The unit supports 5-speed recording for up to 6 hours. Adjusting the recording speed (SP, LP, EP, etc.) will affect video quality and the amount of content that can be stored on a single DVD. Consult the on-screen menu for recording speed options.
Progressive Scan Video Out
The ZV427EM5 features Progressive Scan Video Out, which provides a smoother, flicker-free image when connected via component video or HDMI to a compatible television. This enhances the visual quality of DVD playback.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Unit
- Wipe the exterior of the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol sprays.
- Avoid getting dust or debris into the DVD tray or VCR slot.
Disc and Tape Care
- Handle discs by their edges to avoid fingerprints on the playing surface.
- Store discs in their cases when not in use.
- Keep VHS tapes away from strong magnetic fields and extreme temperatures.
Troubleshooting
Before contacting customer support, please refer to the following common issues and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Power cord not connected; power outlet not active. | Ensure power cord is securely plugged in. Test the outlet with another device. |
| No picture/sound | Incorrect input selected on TV; loose AV/HDMI cables. | Select the correct input on your TV. Check all cable connections. |
| VCR picture distorted/lines | Tracking issues; dirty VCR heads; damaged tape. | Use the TRACKING buttons on the remote. Try a different tape. If persistent, VCR heads may need cleaning by a professional. |
| DVD not playing | Disc is dirty, scratched, or incompatible format. | Clean the disc with a soft cloth. Try a different disc. Ensure the disc format is supported (DVD-Video, CD-Audio). |
| Cannot record to DVD | Disc is not recordable; disc is full; disc not finalized. | Use a blank recordable DVD (DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW). Ensure enough space is available. Finalize the disc after recording. |
| No TV tuner | This model does not include an internal TV tuner. | To record TV broadcasts, you will need to connect an external TV tuner or cable/satellite box to the unit's input jacks. |
Specifications
- Model Name: ZV427EM5
- Brand: Emerson
- Media Type: DVD, VHS
- Resolution (Output): Up to 1920x1080 (via HDMI)
- Special Feature: Progressive Scan
- Connector Type: HDMI, Component Video (YPbPr), Composite Video (RCA), Coaxial RF (Input/Output)
- Audio Output Mode: Stereo
- Recording Speeds: 5-speed (up to 6 hours on DVD)
- Included Components: Universal Remote Control
- Batteries Required: 2 AAA (for remote)
- Item Weight: 12.6 pounds
- Package Dimensions: 21 x 14.8 x 7.1 inches
- Date First Available: April 22, 2015
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Emerson website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Manufacturer: Emerson





