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View Full Version : Alternative to TIVO

AZNBoiOnFIYA
12-12-04, 12:56 PM
is there a device that functions like a vcr that uses a hard drive and does not require any monthly fees?
Flip-Mode
12-12-04, 01:01 PM
TIVO is much more then just a vcr that uses an HD, it knows what its playing by show name, category ect. Those things you get only with the monthly subscription.
lilxvietxboi
12-12-04, 01:20 PM
IF you just want something to record tv, and if you have some sort of video in on a pci device or if you have vivo on your videocard, you can get beyondtv or sagetv or something.

Heres are two links that i visit to watch tv on my computer and record shows.
http://www.htpcnews.com/ (also check the forums out there)
http://www.htpcforums.com/

htpc = home theater personal computer

if you just want to watch shows like 24/alias/lost other shows get a bittorrent and just download, i think thats perfectly legal.
AZNBoiOnFIYA
12-12-04, 01:24 PM
i was thinking more along the lines of a dvr or something that functions exactly like a vcr but without the cassette. i dont care about the programming
cetoole
12-12-04, 03:33 PM
SageTV is good, get a PVR 250 (or 500 if you want dual tuners) and you are set.
Captain Slug
12-13-04, 10:19 AM
I've tried all of the alternatives, and nothing seems to beat TiVo in both ease of use and functionality. Especially in situations where you're not the only one that needs to record things.
And you won't have a monthly fee if you do up-front payment.

So, my questions are
1. Do you need to plan a recording in advance?
2. Will you have a broadband connection near your TV or wherever you're plugging the DVR in?
3. Do you record alot of programming?
4. Are you the only person that will be using this device?
aeiou
12-13-04, 12:13 PM
If you have enough power and hdd space on your computer already (at least 1GHZ with >256MB ram, at least 80GB hdd) I would go with a Compro card. I have the Gold+ version that is about $80, but they have card running from $30-100. No, they aren't as good as tivo, but they come pretty close and are a lot cheaper.

Here are some of their products at newegg: http://www.newegg.com/app/searchProductResult.asp?Submit=Go&Range=1&InnerManu=1804&DEPA=0&bop=and&description=compro&Order=price