[KoolKat]

What's the make of the combi?Look in the settings to see if you have to change from PAL>NTSC.Some have an auto function but is default set at PAL.Others you have to change manually.Thats why its black & white on playback.
You may just be stuck with a PAL only combi..in which case take it back and just get a good DvD recorder...NOT a combi.
Then ,when you can,get a good 6 head VCR with S-VHS output.
Try JVC(the makers of VHS) as they have the best built in time base correctors imo.

K_K