I occasionally record from standard definition set top box to a VCR which gives excellent results for a VCR

To record any high definition programs in the future I expect to be able to connect a high definition set top box to my Pioneer recorder to record the high definition programs

Is this do-able ?

Will the recorder be able to convert the high definition single to standard definition as it records ?

Works exactly the same as your previous SD STB->VCR setup. The HD STB will already be converting them down when you output the signal, so no need for the DVDR to do any further conversion. You do realise that the HD channels you record will only be at best SD quality, but I guess it's the HD content that you are after and not so much the extra PQ?

Thanks for confirming that !

I'm only using a 26" CRT in my small lounge at the moment so standard definition picture quality is adequate

When I upgrade to 42" plasma I doubt if I could see much difference in picture quality between standard definition and high definition from three metres !

I not expecting to invest in plasma until next year so i have plenty of time to investigate