Possible to use a Tivo without a subscription?

[Cuda1447]

If I buy a tivo system do I absolutely have to get the subscription for the guide? Is it possible to just set up a time I want to record and not have a tv guide?

If so how difficult is it to do? I read mixed reports on google about some people saying its not possibe, others saying it is... and a bunch of idiotic stuff. Seemed like no one really knew what they were talking about, so I figured I'd ask the smartest place in the world...

 

[slackerinabox]

When I had it (series 1), you were able to set up manual recordings. But it's tedious and, really, what is the points? Get a cable company dvr for $7 a month with no hardware charges .

 

[Cuda1447]

Originally posted by: freedomsbeat212
When I had it (series 1), you were able to set up manual recordings. But it's tedious and, really, what is the points? Get a cable company dvr for $7 a month with no hardware charges .

Verizon Fios, but that may be worth it. Good suggestion, thanks

 

[jonnyjack]

to answer the OP's original question...yes, you do need a subscription to use it. even manual recordings will not work without.

there is a model that has "tivo basic", which is free, built-in which is discontinued, i believe it was on toshiba hardware.

 

[cavingjan]

None of the series 2 or series 3 tivos will work without the subscription service.

 

[torpid]

If you can find an old series 1 you might be able to do it.