I'm Very Disappointed

I bought this model to replace the previous LG DVD/VHS recorder that, after 5 months, wouldn't read, play, FF or rewind DVDs properly without freezing up.
After one week the new model (RC897T) started to shut down timer recordings from regular cable after 5 to 43 minutes and displayed a message "Copy Protected" and did not record any more. The first 40 minutes recorded and manual recording was possible so it wasn't a copy protect issue.
I also was shocked to find out that unlike the first model LG I could not use the VCR if the DVD was recording and the same with VCR recording you can't use the DVD. Only one can be used at a time, unlike my $99 Wal Mart brand(Funai).
There is one other odd feature. The display button does not show info on screen when recording on VHS as it does while recording on DVD. And when you hit record on the VHS the only indication of recording is on the unit display and not on screen as expected. This makes the front display the only way to set Quick Recordings and you can not check the tape status or time left on tape.
I just got home with my 3rd LG in 7 months and the same display issues exist and as of yet no recordings have been attempted.
Otherwise the setup was as easy as you might expect for the basic hookup.