What DVR can I buy that does not require a subscription service?
I want a DVR to record my favorite TV shows. The one I have now runs nearly $20/mo through my cable company. I would rather purchase my own unit and record (even if it has to be real time). Are there options out there that do not require me to pay for a monthly service? I just want to buy hardware and do the recording myself. I don't want TiVo or any of the other 3rd party devices/services nor do I want to pay for a unit from my cable company. I just want an answer on what DVR I can purchase that will not require a subscription service.
Thanks!
Gefen made a device that would record HDMI (Gefen HD Personal Recorder). They are available on-line but they have stopped making new ones for the time being. Fairly expensive ~$1000 retail only an 80 Gb Harddrive, you may be able to find cheaper. I believe this would record any HDMI source but I don't think you can schedule recordings and 80Gb is fairly small when recording HD.
Moxi.com offer a HD DVR $599 (no subscription needed). Cable TV only. They also have extenders that allow you to watch content on other TV. I found them to be a little clunky. 500 Gb in the main device that can be expanded via an external USB harddrive.
Ceton Inc offers InfiniTV $400 is a computer card that allows you to use Window Media Center as a DVR no monthly fee <-- My option at the momment works very well and there is great support through the company and The Green Button online forum (Cable TV only). Four tuners and virtually storage limited by how much you want to spend.
SiliconDust is in the process of get a network version of the Ceton card that would allow you share the tuners on a network of computers. (Cable TV only). Not sure when it comes out but i'll probably end up with one when they come out.
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