What i would like to know is if it is possible for me to link up a samsung 709 dvd player to a philips phdvdr70 and record backups of all my dvds

No you cant.

You can get a filter box to place between them that will do the job, but it's not legal, as it removes the macrovision protection.

You've got two questions going there,
1) is it possible to link those two devices together
2) is it legal to make copies?

As Phil said you would need a Macrovision removal filter between the player and the recorder.
As for the legality of making copies, you need to research the laws in your Country, we're a technical support forum We don't supply Legal Advice!

Far as I know you copy what ever original you own, but dont sell it.

If you can get a macro free dvd player its easier.

The macrovision is switched off on my player

You should be ok then.

If you want to verify it, hook it up to your VCR and try recording from the DVD.

Originally posted by Mr Snatcher
Far as I know you copy what ever original you own, but dont sell it.

.. and what country's law are you basing this assumption on? Some countries have 'fair use' laws allowing limited copying, others do not allow copying under any circumstance. As I said check your country's laws.