Combi Boxes- Are there any good ones?

Boo_hoo

From what I have read, not one of these boxes does the job.

So I am wondering what the best solution is?

Get two boxes? One Freesat HD/PVR and One Freeview HD/PVR.

Build a HTPC? As it appears it will cost about the same. Do tuner cards off the same capabilities.

Wait for something better to come along.

tmcw

Me personally, I'd get a Freesat HD or FTA Linux HD sat box, wait to see if Saorsat launches, and if it does, put up an extra LNB (if dish big enough) or an extra dish.

STB

Boo_hoo wrote: »

From what I have read, not one of these boxes does the job.

So I am wondering what the best solution is?

Get two boxes? One Freesat HD/PVR and One Freeview HD/PVR.

Build a HTPC? As it appears it will cost about the same. Do tuner cards off the same capabilities.

Wait for something better to come along.

What is the job exactly.

ALL of them (listed in the sticky above) allow the receiving of both HD terrestrial and satellite WITHOUT subscription or payment to SKY or UPC or other money grabbing organisations.

Recording is the main limitation. But at €130 each you could buy 2 and record to your hearts desire.

lucernarian

I would say there is a much bigger limitation than recording. All of the combi boxes I've seen have no ability to use the Freesat EPG, but in particular they can't retune automatically were transponder channels to change.

Pangea

Is it possible that there will have be a Combi SAORVIEW and Freesat box?

PressTheButton

Pangea wrote: »

Is it possible that there will have be a Combi SAORVIEW and Freesat box?

Size of potential market in Ireland unlikely to entice manufacturers to develop a certified Saorview/Freesat combi STB. Approximately 90 per cent of Irish households watch television through cable providers or Sky (according to journalist Adrian Weckler of the Sunday Business Post in May 2010). If however one does become available here, I’m in the queue!

Boo_hoo

There already are a few Combination boxes(uncertified) but as I was implying they have their problems.

So I've decided to go with building a HTPC. More versatility and the option to later upgrade the TV card. Also more software options.

Pangea

PressTheButton wrote: »

Size of potential market in Ireland unlikely to entice manufacturers to develop a certified Saorview/Freesat combi STB. Approximately 90 per cent of Irish households watch television through cable providers or Sky (according to journalist Adrian Weckler of the Sunday Business Post in May 2010). If however one does become available here, I’m in the queue!

90% that makes me feel sick , how do people afford paying out so much money a month to these companies.
SKY still have a strong monopoly market here in Ireland too.