1. Not all 4 head VCRs will do frame by frame in a nice way. Also, check with
the dealer about using it in frame by frame for extended periods of time. We
once bought a VCR that advertised frame by frame capability but had it break
down in a few months. The dealer then told us that it was never intended to be
used in that mode so heavily. The last VCR we purchased came from a dealer
specializing in professional video equipment and it cost us $2000. Works great,
though....
2. Examine your reasoning for buying a VCR. Digital video is comparably priced
and more flexible. If you already have a PCI based computer, a Miro DC20 card
costs around $600 and will record 640x480 at a reliable 30fps.