Do you think £200 would do it?
I know what you're saying about multi-region...what I should have said was 'a recorder that's easily available pre-modded or has a handset hack'. Sorry, should have been more clear.
It doesn't have to have amazing picture or sound quality. Ease of use is more important.
Perhaps even a pointer to a good internet retailer who sells multi-region devices might be useful?
I know that back when I used to hang around here there were a few good retailers around that everyone used, but as I say, I'm out of the loop these days, and I haven't a clue where to start.