Ken,
Of the three D/A Converters I have, the DTVPal Plus is the only one which has a VCR Timer.
When first getting it, yes, I did some recordings, but, it was really a pain duplicating the Programs on each one. I jump around the channels a lot from week to week.
I have since updated my HT and now have ATSC recorders. All three of the D/A's basically just sit in the spare rooms now, wait for a Guest, or a conflict in who wants to watch what.
I have to admit, the DTVPal Plus drove me nuts at first. It has a mind of it's own, coming on (by it's self) to update the EPG and no telling what else. But overall, it is a good piece of equipment, and saved a very good Analog TV from the junk pile, as have the others.
On the TR-40...
I don't own one of those, I only had it listed as having the VCR Timer Feature. There actually weren't all that many of the original D/A's that had that function.
However there are
other resources which may provide you with the information you seek, including problems and other comments.
Have a good Day !

S.W.