DTV HD vs Tivo series 3

[Varmus]

I have been using Tivo with DTV for several years now and, except for recent software bugs, I have loved it. However, I just bought an HDTV and am agonizing over whether to switch to cable in order to stay with Tivo. I tried an R15 a year or so ago and sent it back in a week.

Has anybody tried both the DTV HD DVR and Tivo series 3? How do they compare? Are they stable, easy to use, and record everything that is programmed? I would appreciate any advice.

We have Charter cable, which is really a horrible company. Thus, I am very wary of changing to cable - even to keep Tivo.

[gamo62]

I have been using Tivo with DTV for several years now and, except for recent software bugs, I have loved it. However, I just bought an HDTV and am agonizing over whether to switch to cable in order to stay with Tivo. I tried an R15 a year or so ago and sent it back in a week.

Has anybody tried both the DTV HD DVR and Tivo series 3? How do they compare? Are they stable, easy to use, and record everything that is programmed? I would appreciate any advice.

We have Charter cable, which is really a horrible company. Thus, I am very wary of changing to cable - even to keep Tivo.


DTV's box isn't bad. It isn't Tivo. But as of right now no MRV. But with the TivoHD's channels mostly being copy protected thus all but eliminating MRV and TTG, they are pretty much the same. Had I known then what I know now, I would have went with DTV.

[Doh]

I would also be interested in hearing about this, and I have a friend in this same situation. You might check out the HD directv forum (here, or perhaps on dbstalk). For example, JAP started this thread http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=382484

Also, I am confused as to who may need a new DTV dish...

[HiDefGator]

The Hr20's aren't bad. I've had three of them for 6+ months. Having all the HD choices on DTV doesn't suck either. I've never owned an S3 so I can't compare them directly. I have owned several DirecTivo's and the HR20 is as reliable as they were. The real Tivo will offer you more features but less HD with cable.

[Varmus]

The Hr20's aren't bad. I've had three of them for 6+ months. Having all the HD choices on DTV doesn't suck either. I've never owned an S3 so I can't compare them directly. I have owned several DirecTivo's and the HR20 is as reliable as they were. The real Tivo will offer you more features but less HD with cable.


What features does Tivo have that the HR20 does not? (and vice versa)

[kas25]

Do the HR 20's accept home movies, for example, in Mpeg 4 format. I have converted many for use on an Apple TV but would love for them to also work on a DVR.