Can I buy a DVR and get good results with digital cable service without paying a monthly upcharge to comcrap? Or is it better to go with a direct TV package? Is a subscription service the only way to go?



I was pretty good with recording in VHS, but this newfangled stuff is confusing!

a dvr works just as good with cable. Although there is nothing like having your dvr go out and getting a new one the same day with comcast. if your dvr goes out if you bought the extended warranty you need to send it out for service. hats my $.02

Do you need to pay a monthly subscription?

You can get one without a monthly service charge, but like a VCR, you have to program the times. With a service (tivo, dish, comcast, etc.) you can easily browse shows and choose by title/genre/actor/etc., record only new episodes or reruns, set up priority (so if 2 shows are showing at once, it picks the one you want the most) and it'll automatically set it up. Many can now record 2 shows at once, but those usually cost a bit more. Additionally, like RX7 LEB FER URASIA mentioned, with the monthly charge you get the customer service.



I've had to replace a TiVo unit back when I had it (and a remote another time), and I've had to replace my Dish DVR/receiver once as well. It's a hard drive, and susceptible to damage like any computer.



As for it being confusing, once it's plugged in and set up, they're very user friendly. Tivo was easier to use than Dish DVR for me, but I haven't used Direct TV or Comcast DVRs.



If you're the type that can build and program your own computer, you can make a DVR from computer parts, there are instructions online.

Neat. I'ma go google right now.

I don't think we would watch TV if we didn't have a DVR. It's just not in Amy and I to sit down in front of the TV at a scheduled time. Some nights we are hope by 5pm and some we are home till 11 pm.



I use Directv though and they don't charge me for the DVR service. I got a package when we bought the service that includes it.

with comcast the dvr is great.you can record shows and movies while watching another channel or using on demand. I love comcast. and there internet is the best i had there 16 mbps internet in naples and now at my moms i use att at 50kbps download its a night mare to even wacth videos on you tube.

I'm going to go with comcast and get the dvr and the Internet so I can finally get online again with the ps3

I honestly don't think I've ever heard that from anyone before.



Probably because up until recently, Comcast was the only provider in our area. Everyone here hates them.

Yeah, you don't hear that much. My Dad was just grousing about how the service intermittently goes out for no reason, like frequently!



I told him my only quibble with them is price. The service is bulletproof, and the high-speed internet rocks. It's just pricey. My bill just jumped from 87 to 131 bucks. I guess our special deal is over. I need to call them and threaten to go with DirectTV.