Freesat Convert

will-in-estoril

In anticipation of the World Cup I decided to go HD. I started off by buying a relatively cheap $ky HD box from an auction site, in need of a repair, which I duly arranged. (Knowing that Thomson PSUs will fail this gave me some guarantee of a receiver which would last a few years.)

I have not subscribed to $ky for several years, but did have a viewing card in my standard digibox. The first difference I noticed was the sheer size and weight of the HD box, presumably to accommodate the hard disc, something redundant to me as a non-subscriber. Although the 3 HD channels I could watch had great picture quality, the SD channels left a lot to be desired.

Last week I took the plunge and opted for a Humax freesat box. Whilst I can only receive two HD channels I have no regrets at all. The receiver is small, neat and light.The overall picture quality is better across all channels.

(I now wish to upgrade my Technomate 'proper' satellite receiver to an HD equivalent, but that's another story!)

I am sure Channel 4 HD will go FTA. Freesat is a genuine alternative for those who do not want pay TV, yet want a simple to use receiver. I could not understand why $ky News was not on the EPG, but now I can. Murdoch et al must be terrified of Freesat, whose potential has not yet been fully realised.

BBC iPlayer is just around the corner.

shdfiaski

this is besr deas