DTV HDTV Tivo...

footballcoach · 01-31-2007, 07:17 PM

Hi,

I'm in a time crunch and I apologize in advance because I know this question is likely asked more often than any other. Normally, I do a ton of research on the products I buy, but I just simply don't have the time to get past the learning curve and need an easy answer this time.

I need to get a DirecTV HDTV Tivo tomorrow. I would appreciate any info you can give me on what to get and where. I have looked at the DTV DVR's and reviews are slamming the unit and frankly we have had our Sony DirecTivo now for nearly 6 years and we still love the thing. In my book, Tivo is the only way to go.

I just bought a brand new 73" Diamond Mits tonight and need HDTV for our Super Bowl party.

Any info you guys can give me would be much appreciated. I'm leaving for work soon, but will check this thread and I hope I can get some good advice on how best to proceed.

Thanks,

-footballcoach

dishrich · 01-31-2007, 07:31 PM

Doubt you'll be able to get one in a DAY (nothing like waiting 'til the last minute, eh...

)

I assume you know there is only ONE model, the HR10-250 - makes things pretty easy for looking.
Better start off looking on e-bay or craigslist, or check the classifieds on the various DBS boards. Since they have not been made for quite some time, you're most likely going to end up getting a used one.

Hey, here's one RIGHT here on THIS very board - maybe you two can "hook-up"
http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb...d.php?t=339068

Good luck on your quest.

footballcoach · 01-31-2007, 07:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dishrich

Doubt you'll be able to get one in a DAY (nothing like waiting 'til the last minute, eh...

)

I assume you know there is only ONE model, the HR10-250 - makes things pretty easy for looking.
Better start off looking on e-bay or craigslist, or check the classifieds on the various DBS boards. Since they have not been made for quite some time, you're most likely going to end up getting a used one.

Hey, here's one RIGHT here on THIS very board - maybe you two can "hook-up"
http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb...d.php?t=339068

Good luck on your quest.

Thanks I will see what I can do. I guess I don't need it tomorrow, but would like it before Sunday.

Are there other options perhaps? For example: Can one buy an H20 DirecTV HDTV receiver and hook it up to an HD Tivo? Are there problems or issues with going this route instead?

Thanks again...

-footballcoach

HiDefGator · 01-31-2007, 08:17 PM

For recording DirecTV HD your only options are the HR10 or the HR20. Nothing else will get you there.

footballcoach · 01-31-2007, 08:21 PM

Bummer!

Im sure I am preaching the choir here, but DirecTV was a lot better off with Tivo-enabled units. It's really disappointing...

-footballcoach

rlj5242 · 02-01-2007, 07:45 AM

Unless you are in the LA or NY DMA's you will need to use an antenna for the "Big Game". Your Mitsu should have an ATSC tuner in it. Connect the appropriate antenna and you are ready to watch the game. For any more help on this subject, posting your location like the rest of us do will be required.

-Robert

bonscott87 · 02-01-2007, 09:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by footballcoach

Bummer!

Im sure I am preaching the choir here, but DirecTV was a lot better off with Tivo-enabled units. It's really disappointing...

-footballcoach

How do you know? Have you tried the HR20?

You can probably get an H20 or HR20 today at a Best Buy or CC if you need one that bad and can't wait.

In any event, your new TV may have an OTA tuner in it. Plug it into an antenna and you should have the game in HD, assuming your local CBS is in HD and you can pick it up.

Check www.antennaweb.org

If you are close enough to the CBS tower even a set of rabbit ears can work.

Billy66 · 02-01-2007, 09:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by footballcoach

Bummer!

Im sure I am preaching the choir here, but DirecTV was a lot better off with Tivo-enabled units. It's really disappointing...

-footballcoach

No, it sounds like *you* are better off if DTV offers TiVo enabled units. I don't think you get to speak for them.

footballcoach · 02-01-2007, 10:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bonscott87

How do you know? Have you tried the HR20?

You can probably get an H20 or HR20 today at a Best Buy or CC if you need one that bad and can't wait.

In any event, your new TV may have an OTA tuner in it. Plug it into an antenna and you should have the game in HD, assuming your local CBS is in HD and you can pick it up.

Check www.antennaweb.org

If you are close enough to the CBS tower even a set of rabbit ears can work.

Thanks bonscott87. No, I have not used an HR20. My comments were based on many reviews I read about the unit having issues, but you are right...I haven't tried it so my opinion doesn't count for much.

New set does have OTA antenna, but I live near Denver and I'm sure you guys have heard about all the problems we have had getting the towers up. I believe there are a few local stations that have limited range towers in Downtown Denver, but it's been a while since I have checked that. Thanks for the reminder...I'll look into that option today.

Billy66...no need to be hostile. I'm not speaking for anyone. I'm assuming since this is a Tivo community that most folks here like Tivo. I know I do and I wish to support them. My criticism was directed at DirecTV which I have had many problems with in the past and whom I feel do not treat their existing customers who have been with them a long time as well as they should. But that is another matter entirely.

Anyway, it is my personal opinion that DirecTV is weaker for not offering Tivo units and instead providing their own solution, but again...that's my opinion.

-footballcoach

Billy66 · 02-01-2007, 10:50 AM

Didn't mean to seem hostile footballcoach. My apologies.

I think we agree actually.

rlj5242 · 02-01-2007, 12:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by footballcoach

New set does have OTA antenna, but I live near Denver and I'm sure you guys have heard about all the problems we have had getting the towers up. I believe there are a few local stations that have limited range towers in Downtown Denver, but it's been a while since I have checked that. Thanks for the reminder...I'll look into that option today.

Have you checked the parent forum? Specifically, the Denver OTA thread?

-Robert

footballcoach · 02-01-2007, 07:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Billy66

Didn't mean to seem hostile footballcoach. My apologies.

I think we agree actually.

No worries Billy66! And no need to apologize. I probably just read your message wrong. It's all good.

I bit the bullet and just bought an HR20S from Circuit City today (Boo!). I think it was darn near the last one in Denver. Illustrating my point in a previous post...If I had been a new customer I would have only paid $199 for the unit. But since I have been giving DirecTV my money for 10 solid years I get the "privilege" of paying $299 for it.

They have to realize sooner or later that their existing customers are the ones making their business run. Those are the people that should be getting the better (or at least as-good) deals. Especially on the hardware.

Oh well...wish me luck.

PJO1966 · 02-01-2007, 07:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by footballcoach

No worries Billy66! And no need to apologize. I probably just read your message wrong. It's all good.

I bit the bullet and just bought an HR20S from Circuit City today (Boo!). I think it was darn near the last one in Denver. Illustrating my point in a previous post...If I had been a new customer I would have only paid $199 for the unit. But since I have been giving DirecTV my money for 10 solid years I get the "privilege" of paying $299 for it.

They have to realize sooner or later that their existing customers are the ones making their business run. Those are the people that should be getting the better (or at least as-good) deals. Especially on the hardware.

Oh well...wish me luck.

I had an HR20 and had many problems with it. If you don't like it, you can always return it on Monday.

bluesman64 · 02-01-2007, 08:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by footballcoach

New set does have OTA antenna, but I live near Denver and I'm sure you guys have heard about all the problems we have had getting the towers up. I believe there are a few local stations that have limited range towers in Downtown Denver, but it's been a while since I have checked that. Thanks for the reminder...I'll look into that option today.

-footballcoach

I live in Denver proper and get great reception with my rooftop antenna. I have friends in Highlands Ranch who have also been able to pick up the Denver locals in HD OTA. Definitely try it - much better pq than what D* will deliver - no compression! (plus with this crazy weather no worries that the dish will get filled up with snow and block out the game)

Xandor · 02-01-2007, 09:15 PM

You could also try craigslist. I see one that someone in Lone Tree, CO is selling for 400.