I know DVRs are available with TiVo (and another monthly service, I
believe). I know they're available as part of a cable/satellite
package. I don't want either of those. I want a DVR that acts just
like a VCR (meaning that I can just hook it up to a TV and my regular
cable without anything more). I don't need a service to tell me
what's on -- I'm willing to just enter, e.g., "record 10 p.m. to 11
p.m. every Tuesday on xyz channel." I don't want to pay a monthly (or
lifetime) fee and I don't want to have to subscribe to anything
special (satellite, digital cable, etc.)
That (all of that!) said, I'm looking for 3 reputable online sources
to *research* (and maybe buy) such a DVR that provide *good info*
about what DVR options exist (along with detailed specs for those
DVRs) *separate from additional monthly charges.*
Thanks! |
Request for Question Clarification by
maniac-ga
on
04 May 2005 18:05 PDT
Hello jackiell,
Are you looking for a set top box or would an add on for a computer be acceptable?
The market appears to be divided into the following categories:
- TiVo or cable / satellite service package (with monthly fee)
- DVR for multiple cameras (e.g., security system)
- TV tuner / encoder for a computer
The last one appears to be closest to what you ask for but requires a
relatively modest computer (one requires 800 Mhz Pentium III or
better) to dedicate to the application.
--Maniac
|
Clarification of Question by
jackiell-ga
on
05 May 2005 06:02 PDT
Hi Maniac,
I'm interested in bypassing the monthly/lifetime fee and it's not for
a security system, so I guess, yes, #3 is the closest option. I could
buy a separate PC if I needed to, I suppose. Please let me know what
you think/find out!
Thanks!
|
Clarification of Question by
jackiell-ga
on
05 May 2005 11:22 PDT
Just to clarify my clarification: are there options other than the 3
listed? I'd rather not have to dedicate a PC to it (and deal with the
associated jerry rigging of the system). (Plus, it'd probably be
cheaper just to pay the $300 lifetime fee to TiVo.)
Many thanks!
|
Request for Question Clarification by
maniac-ga
on
05 May 2005 18:15 PDT
Hello jackiell,
Based on what you describe (no PC to reuse...), I suggest you go with
one of the set top boxes. You might be able to pick up a suitable PC
but it is not likely. The security system device would be quite
capable but likely cost MUCH more than a home unit.
--Maniac
|
Clarification of Question by
jackiell-ga
on
16 May 2005 13:11 PDT
Hi Maniac,
I guess it sounds like building my own TiVo or similar is out. So,
I'll modify the question somewhat: what does anyone know about the
free TiVo service that I've heard rumblings about? I think I read in
Consumer Reports (??) a while back that they offer a free service but
don't advertise it and it's not nearly as good as the $12.95/mo.
service. I'd like to get some multiple-user feedback on the free
service (vs. just one or two people giving me their experiences.)
What does it offer? What does it omit? What are the plusses and
minuses?
Is that info available anywhere on the web?
Thanks!
Jackie
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