Best value in HD DVR

[berg3200]

I just realized this new Optoma H31 projector I bought is HD ready so I thought I'd update my directv receiver.

I need the DVR but don't need alot of record hours (I've been happy with the 35 hours I have now)....and I'd like a popular dependable basic HD receiver.

The Optoma has DVI and HDMI outputs....HDMI the way to go?

Could I get some model numbers on some "good value" receivers (new or used).

THANKS.

[berg3200]

Wait a minute....I just did some more searching and now I realize I can buy an HDTV tuner instead?

Really, I just want to watch NFL games in HD.

I just saw a Samsung "tuner" that is both over the air and Directv....I suppose I could use that and keep my current DVR (as long as I didn't care about recording the HD)....or.....

buy an HDTV tuner for local over the air broadcasts?

I think the latter sounds like the best way to go, so let me update my question....

What tuner(s) can you suggest?

How critical is the antenna with HD? (less? more? critical than anaolg?)

THANKS MUCH.

[classicsat]

I'd get the DirecTV HD receiver, it gives you a few more options.

[John T Smith]

If you want to stick with D*Tivo, you will need to find a model HR10-250

Check eBay, or forum sponsor Weaknees

Or, scour the stores in your area... various people have reported finding them at different stores (WalMart, CompUSA, Best Buy, etc)

PS - if you do buy the HR10-250, it has a different forum for HD
http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=36

[berg3200]

Looks like a real mess the more I learn about this.

Do you think Directv will always have the TIVO interface available or are they trying to phase it out?

I don't want to have to learn another system.

[ebonovic]

Looks like a real mess the more I learn about this.

Do you think Directv will always have the TIVO interface available or are they trying to phase it out?

I don't want to have to learn another system.

They have already started to phase it out.
No DirecTivo has been manufactured in over a year...

And there are zero plans to re-introduce it.

[John T Smith]

I don't want to have to learn another system.
You'd better find a spare unit NOW, on eBay or from a forum sponsor, so you'll have one ready when your current hard drive dies (and die it will... I've been using a personal computer of one brand/model or another since 1982, and know that all hard drives stop working... eventually)

[berg3200]

I'd like to learn more about the differences between the 2 systems...I suppose the interface that Directv is using now is something they developed themselves?

Is there a web site that actually shows sample screens etc and notes the differences? (Easier seen than read about).

What is the new interface called? and I'll assume then ALL the new Directv models
are using it.

Thanks.

[poppagene]

Wait a minute....I just did some more searching and now I realize I can buy an HDTV tuner instead?

Really, I just want to watch NFL games in HD.

I just saw a Samsung "tuner" that is both over the air and Directv....I suppose I could use that and keep my current DVR (as long as I didn't care about recording the HD)....or.....

buy an HDTV tuner for local over the air broadcasts?

I think the latter sounds like the best way to go, so let me update my question....

What tuner(s) can you suggest?

How critical is the antenna with HD? (less? more? critical than anaolg?)

THANKS MUCH.

I'd get a hughes htl-hd unit on ebay. It can tune in directv, ota atsc and ota ntsc as well as nonhd cable. It works fine for just ota hd without a directv subscription and has a dvi interface for your projector. It also has a working serial port that a standalone tivo can access.

[Jerry_K]

I just put up antennas for HD over the air. Two Radio Shack 15-2160 yagi antennas, available in Radio Shack stores only. $25 each and they are working great. I have one pointed at Baltimore stations and one pointed at Washington/Annapolis stations. I have them hooked up to the two antenna inputs on my new HD TV. The TV is a Mitsubishi and I found a great deal on eBay for a Mitsubishi DVHS VCR. I can record high def shows very easily. It's no TiVo but it works for the occasional recording.