Getting rid of DTV... need DVR suggestions

[Fingolfin269]

OK, here is the situation. My DTV contract is up and I'm going to pull the plug to see how 'bad' it is without cable in my life. I do have Comcast internet and the basic TV package so I know I can pull the locals in HD plus some additional channels.

What is the best option for a DVR? Options...

1) Tivo (or other similar product)
2) I have a PS3 and 360 attached to the TV. Any opportunity for a DVR here? FYI, I do have Netflix streaming and will probably sign up for Hulu+.
3) I'm somewhat interested in looking into low-cost HTPC options but am not really sure where to start. It's been a long time since I've built a PC and don't really have as much time for it these days.

 

[NutBucket]

All you need for a basic HTPC that will record programs is Core2 or similar with a tuner and some way to output to your TV. Win7 has DVR functionality built-in more or less. Of course there are other alternatives software wise but I'm not really familiar with them.

Another solution is a subscription-less set top box. Like a Tivo, but with no monthly fees. Something like this: http://www.crutchfield.com/p_659CM74...r_dvr&skipvs=T

Unfortunately since it isn't on the market yet the quality is unknown.

 

[Fingolfin269]

All you need for a basic HTPC that will record programs is Core2 or similar with a tuner and some way to output to your TV. Win7 has DVR functionality built-in more or less. Of course there are other alternatives software wise but I'm not really familiar with them.

Another solution is a subscription-less set top box. Like a Tivo, but with no monthly fees. Something like this: http://www.crutchfield.com/p_659CM74...r_dvr&skipvs=T

Unfortunately since it isn't on the market yet the quality is unknown.

I rarely use my desktop anymore and it's a decent machine. The problem is distance more than anything else. Not sure I really want to put a computer in the living room. Do you have any tuner suggestions if I decide to give it a shot? It does seem like something so cheap to put together should be readily available in the market though. Something in a package that doesn't look like a desktop in the living room... do you know of anything like this?

 

[NutBucket]

I was planning on getting a SFF Dell..like a Vostro 260s. Doesn't seem like it would stick out too badly compared to the other components I've got.

As for tuners, I'm not really sure what the good ones are. Assuming you have a decent antenna I don't know how different they really are.

 

[notposting]

Are your devices wired? You can use 7MC on the desktop and utilize the 360 as a Media Center Extender. I use the HDHomerun for Comcast Limited Basic, it has dual tuners via network.

 

[Plugers]

For a case, Google vesa mount PC case. I have a M350 and it mounts a mITX system to the back of your TV. Grab an i3 and an MITX board with HDMI out and you're all set.

 

[Fingolfin269]

Are your devices wired? You can use 7MC on the desktop and utilize the 360 as a Media Center Extender. I use the HDHomerun for Comcast Limited Basic, it has dual tuners via network.

The main TV is wired so I'm definitely going to have to take a look at that. Which version of the HDHomerun are you using?

 

[Fingolfin269]

For a case, Google vesa mount PC case. I have a M350 and it mounts a mITX system to the back of your TV. Grab an i3 and an MITX board with HDMI out and you're all set.

Interesting concept on this. I'll need to see if I can find one that will fit my ginormous tv.

 

[Plugers]

The main TV is wired so I'm definitely going to have to take a look at that. Which version of the HDHomerun are you using?

Sounds like he's using the standard QAM/ATSC dual tuner, as am I. I'm looking to get the HDHomeRun Prime soon though. If you're not wanting to pay for cable, get the standard, If you are getting cable, get the Prime. It will let you receive all the encrypted channels your pay for in you plan.

 

[bearxor]

Yeah, I would suggest just getting a HDHR and using your 360 as a MCE. it works really well, actually. After the initial setup on your desktop, you don't even have to touch MCE on your desktop if you don't want to. Just make sure you have plenty of room for your recordings.

A HDHR will also allow you to watch live tv on a laptop if you want to carry it around to another room wirelessly.

Shameless plug - I have a HDHR for sale:
http://forums.anandtech.com/showthread.php?t=2203844

 

[notposting]

Yeah, I use the standard HDHR. And then basically what the others above said about it. Hopefully your cable co has the locals in clear-QAM (they should but...). A Netflix streaming subscription rounds out the viewing as well (and works on the Xbox). And it might not be perfect, but $8/mo versus cable co fees works for me

 

[Fingolfin269]

Thanks guys. I called DTV yesterday and of course they gave me a great deal to stay since I'm out of contract so I took it. Cuts my bill significantly but also allows me to hang on to ESPN, the regional sports networks, and HBO which are the only reasons I even want cable/sat.

Bearxor, thanks for the plug. YHPM!