PVR recommendations please

Ainsley1

Need to get a new Freview box as the old one 'went to see it's maker'. It was a cheap and poor quality one that did not last very long but outside of guarantee. Things have moved on a bit so could do with advice.

We are looking for a Freeview+ machine (or similar free to watch system) that will interface to current non HD TV (i.e. scart), have HD ability for when we next change the TV, simultaneously record up to 250hours programmes (twin tuner?) and hopefully play back older recorded videos (DVD Ram), own made and purchased videos (all standard DVD).

Reliability is of prime consideration as we don't want to waste more money!

Would those with USB ports enable the other recorded video playback function? Would it be better to bite the bullet and pay (I expect) a lot more for a new TV (smallish size only say 30").

Any help will be most appreciated.
[also posted on TV forum]

jaybeetoo

Can you get one from your broadband supplier? Usually cheaper than buying one.

emptybox

I wouldn't be looking for a Freeview+HD box that can also play DVDs. You'd be limiting yourself to very expensive Panasonic machines, or secondhand DVD/HDD recorders that aren't proper PVRs.

penrhyn

Buy a YouView box from Humax, if lucky you may get a refurbished model from Humax Direct.
Humax Direct often have managers specials.

Ainsley1

OK, will see about BB supplier offers, if any!!
Seems like the BT/Humax DTR-T2100 is the best on market for the price ( <£200) according to several reviews - an improvement on the slightly older box w.r.t. fan noise, speed and lack of locking up.

Anyone else with comments? I suspect from one review the USB socket is only for engineering use and not mem stick....???

penrhyn

What about.

http://www1.humaxdirect.co.uk/Direct/Prod/ca06a6bf-c7f5-4ccd-8fe5-4b8e91f3b83a


PS why two threads?

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/65360821#Comment_65360821

Ainsley1

Why two threads? I wasn't sure which one would be best to get best comments!!

I might be wrong but the ones from Humax Direct seem to be the older models that do not have as good reviews from those I have seen?

Amazon seem to have a good price for the DT2100 at about £155

RumRat

If you can get hold of a Humax HDR-FOX T2 It still hasn't been beaten as a PVR and is better than the Youview version...

cookie365

What, is it not being made any more? I'd better look after mine a bit better then

Ainsley1

Rumrat, thanks for that comment. In which way is the Fox 2 better?

RumRat

Ainsley1 wrote: »

Rumrat, thanks for that comment. In which way is the Fox 2 better?

My Sister and a friend both have one and it doesn't seem as smooth as the T2 even though beneath the skin they are the same. The picture doesn't seem quite as good either. If you don't need the catch up bit, the original appears to be better.
They stopped making it, but, you might be lucky and find something or a refurbed one.
That said, the newer Humax boxes are still the leaders in the PVR market. I'm hoping my T2 lasts a while longer so I don't have to make the decision on a replacement...;)