[Corey11]

I would like to purchase a series 2 to record from a dish network receiver. Do you need to activate Tivos if you are just using them as a recorder and not using the Tivo service? Is this even possible?

 

[GoHokies!]

"Using them as a recorder" = "Using the Tivo service", so no.

Unactivated S2 boxes don't work. Full stop.

 

[wolflord11]

GoHokies is correct. The Series 2 Tivo units will not work without a Subscription.

So you will need to have a Subscription with Tivo to use the unit.

And welcome to the Forum.

 

[FatesWebb]

actually, they will work as 30 minute rewind, and fast forward, no permanent recordings. but you can rewind live tv. That was how I used mine for the first 6 months before activation.

 

[classicsat]

The TiVo service is more than guide data, despite that is essentially all that is delivered by the daily call. The "service" includes the right and ability to use all the networking and recording features, and access to the guide data. Not subscribing eliminates those "rights".

 

[parzec]

Actually -- not entirely true. Depending on how you classify the Toshiba DVD Recording Models -- they provide 2 days of guide data, program information and the ability to record with no subscription. It is called Tivo Basic, and these units are available on Ebay. I have one and it works great. This is probaly what you would need for your purposes.

Also, I have a 540 model series 2 on 7.1b and I am using it for manual recording, 30 minute buffer and live pause - but it does not have guide data. It is not connected to the internet or phone line to avoid an interruption of this feature from any unwanted software updates.

So the answer is YES, it is *possible* to use a Series 2 for manual record.

 

[classicsat]

Technically, I am correct. For those Toshiba and Pioneer units, those manufacturers "subscribed" to the Basic level service for you.

For other Series 2/3units, they aren't supposed to work without service, but could if the TiVo is physically disconnected from the phone or network before the service is canceled on it. You cannot purchase such a Series 2 and use it without service.