Connecting vcr,dvd recorder & cable/tv?

Hard to be specific without knowing more about which connections each device has (models vary). There are even issues of which cable converter boxes feature stereo sound on the RF outputs, the Stereo L/R connectors or both (some have stereo sound on one output and monaural sound on the other).

You might find diagrams suggesting connections in the devices' user manuals. Some manufacturers provide downloadable user manuals on their web sites for the convenience of customers that aren't able to locate the paper manuals. A few cable and satellite operators provide connection diagrams on their web sites.

When the source and destination devices have the same type of connection you should use the better connection. In order starting from the best available on your devices use HDMI, component, S-video, RF or composite for the visual portion of the signal. HDMI also carries audio signals, you might also be able to use optical fiber or electrical L/R stereo connections for your audio.

With some equipment you might need a switch box available at many video game dealers and other electronic retailers.

There may be functions in your DVD recorder that prevent it from copying many commercially produced video recordings.