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View Full Version : Is DirectTV DVR Tivo?

Tangleman
12-16-2008, 11:43 AM
If I get a DirectTV DVR, is that Tivo? As a followup question, if I get a DirectTV DVR, would I pay the monthly subscription fee to Tivo or to DirectTV?

I'm trying to find out if I am limited to only purchasing a DVR through DirectTV, or if I can shop around at retail stores to find the best price in a DirectTV Tivo unit.

If I buy one from a retail store, I'm guessing I would then have to activate it with DirectTV? How would that whole process work?

Thanks.
litzdog911
12-16-2008, 12:03 PM
No, the newer DirecTV DVRs do not use Tivo software. A new HD-compatible Tivo-based DirecTV DVR has been announced for "late 2009" release, though. Monthly fees are the same for an older DirecTivo DVR or the newer DVRs. No matter where you buy the DVR you'll have to activate it on your DirecTV account by calling them at 1-800-DIRECTV.
Tangleman
12-16-2008, 12:39 PM
Ok. Thanks. The reason for the question is that I'm working on buying my parents, who have DirectTV, a Tivo. I'm trying to decide if it would be better to buy a DirectTV Tivo at a retail store, or just give him the money to buy one through DirectTV. Any opinions on this, as far as which software would be better, more supported, and less expensive?
cowboys2002
12-16-2008, 12:40 PM
You can't buy a DirecTivo from a retailer. They stopped making them years ago. And DTV mainly leases boxes to subscribers now.
cowboys2002
12-16-2008, 12:41 PM
May I add if you want a Tivo TODAY and the ability to record HD content, you need OTA and/or cable service with cablecards.
Russ Arcuri
12-16-2008, 01:07 PM
Ok. Thanks. The reason for the question is that I'm working on buying my parents, who have DirectTV, a Tivo. I'm trying to decide if it would be better to buy a DirectTV Tivo at a retail store, or just give him the money to buy one through DirectTV. Any opinions on this, as far as which software would be better, more supported, and less expensive?

You could look for a used DirecTiVo on eBay or Craigslist, which would work fine for standard definition use with DirecTV. You just can't buy them new anymore. If you want a high definition TiVo for use with DirecTV, you'll have to wait for the new box that may come out in 2009 but more likely won't come out until 2010.
xq89olp
12-16-2008, 04:05 PM
Or you can check out Weaknees.com. They have Tivo softwared Direct DVRs for sale.