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View Full Version : Hi-Def and Series2 Setup

jjacobus
10-15-2006, 02:18 PM
Need advice from someone who has set this up.

Just purchased Sony XBR HiDef seta
Upgrading Comcast box to include HiDef
Have Tivo Series 2
Will NOT be upgrading to Series 3 because of cost.

Currently, the cable box output passes through the Tivo and output from Tivo is into one of the inputs on the TV. So, Tivo controls channel selection on the cable box. This works well because I can record any channel I get (including premium) from Comcast. I just select "Live TV" to watch live TV. This is the standard setup as explained in the Tivo User's Guide.

I know the Tivo won't record in HiDef, but will it still record a program even though it is coming out of the cable box in HiDef? This may be a dumb question, but if the output signal from the cable box is incompatible with the Series 2 box, I can't send any HiDef signal through the box.

Another thing I'm unclear about is the Comcast box. My retailer said I'd be getting a different box (silver instead of black). Does this box have different outputs?

I know I'm not the first person to do this, but I don't get straight answers from Comcast. I just spent too much mony on the Sony and I want to make sure I can still use my Tivo. Thanks.
jjacobus
10-15-2006, 02:43 PM
Oopps!! Apparently, this has already been covered in Thread 315617.
Stylin
10-15-2006, 06:52 PM
Maybe post thread link for future followup.
Stephen Tu
10-15-2006, 08:45 PM
Strongly recommend getting Comcast DVR rather than STB. Cost only $5/month more, record dual tuner in HD (keep series 2 as 3rd tuner). Reasonable alternative until series 3 price drops.

If using HD STB, you can connect it same as current box. However to watch HD, you will have to bypass the Tivo, using the HD (component or HDMI/DVI) connection to your TV + route audio either direct to TV (needing RCA splitter) or using digital out to a receiver. Furthermore while you watch in HD you won't be able to record anything else on the Tivo.

The DVR solution is much more desirable.
bcrissman
10-16-2006, 10:11 AM
Comcast told me last night I'd have to pay $8.50/month for the HD Cable box and then $9.99/month on top of that for the DVR functionality, so I'm wondering where you're gettting that it would only cost $5 more per month?
classicsat
10-16-2006, 12:34 PM
You'd be getting a TiVo DVR.
Stephen Tu
10-16-2006, 01:51 PM
Comcast told me last night I'd have to pay $8.50/month for the HD Cable box and then $9.99/month on top of that for the DVR functionality, so I'm wondering where you're gettting that it would only cost $5 more per month?

SF Bay area. In most Comcast areas I've heard about, assuming you are digital cable subscriber, it's either +5/month for HD STB, or +9.99/month for DVR, not both. So DVR only $5/month more than HD STB. There is some variation by region but in most cases you should be able to argue yourself out of HD charge. You shouldn't be charged for both unless you are renting both boxes. If CSR giving you trouble just say you want to order just the DVR.