Hacking the TiVo
by Muska & Lipman/Premier-Trade
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (11 August, 2003)
list price: $29.99 -- our price: $29.99
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Reviews (12)

No new information
Most, if not all, of the information in the book could be found free on http://www.tivocommunity.com.If you find the information in Tivo Community difficult to understand you probably shouldn't be hacking your Tivo, and this book isn't worth $20.

tricky
If you are the type of person who builds PCs from scratch parts and you are also a Linux expert, this book is for you. Anyone else should take a long look before they buy it.

If you have a series2 Tivo read the bulleted points on page 223. Beware that one of the required items is very, very difficult to obtain.

Great book - told me what I wanted to know and more!
I'd seen reviews of multiple books about TiVo, but I have a Series 2, so this was the only book that covered it. It was great! Within a few hours, I'd upgraded my Series 2 to 200+ hours of recording time, and it was easy. Hacking the Series 2s isn't covered in any other TiVo book, and I bought the Keegan book at a bookstore, but it was no help. Von Hagen's books could be a little better organized, but it worked for me. I recommend it highly! ... Read more

Isbn: 1592001114
Sales Rank: 205560
Subjects:  1. Computer Books: General    2. Computers    3. Security    4. Technology & Industrial Arts    5. Television & Video    6. Computers / Programming / General   

TiVo Hacks (Hacks)
by O'Reilly
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (22 August, 2003)
list price: $24.95 -- our price: $16.47
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Reviews (11)

Serious hackers only need apply
The majority of the book is working the TiVo at the operating system level to alter the software or to transfer movies. This is advanced stuff that requires a good deal of technical skill. The first chapter of the book does have some hacks that are done from the interface itself, like enabling the advanced season pass. The second chapter covers adding more disk space to your TiVo. Then beyond that you get into the advanced topics; putting your TiVo on your network, changing the software, transferring movies around, and then authoring code for the TiVo.

The book is very focused. The text is well written and the graphics are used effectively. The section on adding disk space is very well done and is better than anything I have read on the web for doing the same type of work.

I recommend this book for people who are familiar with Linux and hardware hacking and are interested in extending their TiVos. For just the average TiVo user you may want to review the table of contents to make sure that you are getting enough out of your purchase.

Not for everyone
Tivo is a software service, coupled with a digital video recorder, which changes the way one watches TV.O'Reilly's "Tivo Hacks", part of their outstanding "Hacks" series, explores how to tinker with these magical little boxes."Tivo Hacks" follows the same format as the other titles in the "Hacks" series.Each chapter is an enumerated series of tips and tricks that will have your Tivo doing summersaults by the time you're finished going through all of them.

It is the first two chapters that the vast majority of Tivo owners will find the most useful.The first chapter explores hacks that may be performed with the remote control.This includes such hacks as the indispensable "30-Second Skip" hack, the powerful "Enabling Advanced WishLists" hack, and the why-would-you-ever-want-to-do-this "Italicizing Everything" hack.

The second chapter carefully details how to add more hours to your Tivo.This section carefully walks the more intrepid souls through removing and installing the necessary hard drives, backing up your original drives, and making your new drives Tivo-friendly."Tivo Hacks" carefully explains each task step-by-step, as well as detailing the tools and materials you will need.The book certainly makes what may seem a daunting procedure very doable.

Tivo is essentially a Linux box.The remaining chapters offer hacks which exploit this fact, and these are definitely for the more technically minded.Herein we find out how to work with Tivo's shell, how to install software on Tivo, how to get Tivo speaking to other computers, how to bring the Internet to Tivo, and many more things that expand the capabilities of your Tivo.The book concludes with a chapter on writing and compiling code for Tivo.As in the first two chapters, each hack is carefully explained and due caution is clearly noted where applicable.Example code for hacks is given in Perl, Tcl, and C.

The author does a fine job throughout in making each hack clear and understandable.If you fancy yourself a bit of a hacker, then after reading this book you should feel comfortable undertaking any of these hacks.

Is this book for you?Well, if you have a Series 2 Tivo, really only the first two chapters are of much interest.The Series 1 boxes are much more "hackable" than the newer Series 2 boxes, and as a result the majority of the rest of the hacks will not work on the Series 2.This book, certainly beyond the first chapter at least, requires a certain level of technical ability, and as such is not for your average Tivo owner.In other words, I probably wouldn't purchase a copy as a gift for Uncle Irwin and Aunt Martha to go along with their shiny new Tivo.On the other hand, if you fit the target audience and want to get the most out of your Tivo, particularly if you want to expand the number of hours in your Tivo, this book will certainly come in handy.While you can certainly find most of the information in this book on the Internet, there is definitely something to be said for having it all in one place so that you may easily flip through it and reference it.

Nicely organized and easy to read
I have not read the other tivo books yet, but I think this one is pretty good.Yes, you can get all the information online from the forums, but this book does a nice job of organizing it all in one place that you can flip through in your leisure.I found the pictures helpful too.The other reviewers seemed a bit harsh on this book, but maybe since I borrowed it from the library, I'm a bit more forgiving. ... Read more

Isbn: 0596005539
Sales Rank: 244238
Subjects:  1. Computer Bks - Languages / Programming    2. Computer Books: General    3. Computer Programs    4. Digital media    5. Equipment and supplies    6. Home entertainment systems    7. Interactive multimedia    8. Programming - General    9. Programming - Systems Analysis & Design    10. Technology    11. Television    12. Television & Video    13. Videotape Recording    14. Computer Hardware & Operating Systems    15. Computer games    16. Multimedia   

Hacking TiVo: The Expansion, Enhancement and Development Starter Kit with CD-ROM
by John Wiley & Sons
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 October, 2003)
list price: $29.99 -- our price: $12.00
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Editorial Review

In Hacking TiVo, Jeff Keegan proves that the TiVo television-recording device is far more than an enhancement to the passive lifestyle. By showing his readers how to use known tricks and all-purpose resourcefulness (plus some online community resources), Keegan shows how to make the TiVo perform far beyond its advertised purpose. He provides a chef's tour of the versatile appliance, calling attention to non-invasive tricks (like entering Select-Play-Select-3-0-Select to skip exactly 30 seconds ahead in a recording to bypass an ad) before moving on to more drastic kinds of fun. By the time you're through with Keegan's guide to the TiVo, you'll have it working as a more or less complete Unix workstation, accessible over the Internet via the excellent TivoWeb interface, and showing home videos, telephone caller ID information, and instant-messaging communications on your television screen.

This book mostly is concerned with software hacks, which will void your TiVo warranty as surely as anything involving a soldering iron, but which have the advantage of usually being reversible. Though he says the hacks in this book will work on TiVo Series1 and Series2, he doesn't explain how to defeat the systems' anti-intrusion mechanisms (which prevent the installation of software, and thus preclude the performance of about half the hacks in this book). This appears to be an exclusion for legal reasons, and he points out that the information is easily found on the Internet. --David Wall

Topics covered: How to make your TiVo do more of what you want. Instructions show how to add a bigger hard drive (for greater recording time), access the TiVo's bash command line, use unsupported command sequences, and share files between your TiVo and your networked personal computer. Particularly neat sections deal with using TivoWeb and putting Caller ID information on-screen. ... Read more

Reviews (40)

** Caution:for non-super technical people BEWARE**
First:the majority of the content is not compatible with the current TIVO system, series 2 *** I got SKUNKED!
Second: This book is really for someone with very strong technical skills, particularly a Unix background.

I am fairly technical with a Computer Science degree and would not attempt to do anything with this book and passed it to another fairly tech savvy friend and he gave it right back to me.There is a page or two that has cute shortcuts for the remote but you can get that info off a TIVO user group site.I regard this purchase as a total ripoff.I'll be happy to send you this book to you for $5 + shipping.email: funbeach6@yahoo.com

Very Limited Usefulness
This really is not a book on Hacking Tivo, rather a book on "Hacking First Generation Tivo's."I have a series 2 DVR and expected to see some hacks that would prove worthwhile for my DVR, however there is little for owners of Tivos manufactured in the last two years.Very simple recommendation-if you have a first generation Tivo buy the book, otherwise pass.

Not as comprensive as others for Series 2
I bought this book and "Hacking the Tivo, Second Edition".The two books cover a similar range of hacks and include Linux boot CDs.However there are key Series 2 hacks that are not covered in this book.For example, video extraction is a very valued hack.I want to transfer videos between my Series 2 Tivo and my PC.

"Hacking Tivo" backs away from this hack on Series Two claiming "legal reasons".Bah!"Hacking the Tivo, Second Edition" shows you how to do this and shows the likely reason why "Hacking Tivo" avoided it.It's harder!"Hacking the Tivo, Second Edition" is written by someone who loves every aspect of hacking the machine and it shows.Get this one instead. ... Read more

Isbn: 0764543369
Subjects:  1. Automatic control    2. Computer Books: General    3. Computer programs    4. Computers    5. Equipment and supplies    6. General    7. Interactive television    8. Technology & Industrial Arts    9. Television    10. Television & Video    11. Video recordings    12. Image processing   

How to Do Everything with Your TiVo (How to Do Everything)
by McGraw-Hill Osborne Media
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (26 May, 2004)
list price: $24.99 -- our price: $16.49
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Reviews (1)

many TiVo uses
You should find this an easy read, in learning how to effectively use your TiVo. The company has spent a lot of time in trying to make the user experience as simple as possible.

Carter gives hardware tips as to various accessory items you might want to hook up your TiVo to. Plus, you can find out how to use various listings offered by third parties. Notably AOL, which offers a neat Remote Scheduling of its TV listings. Talk about convenient.

For those of you with DVD players, and especially recorders, sections of the book describe how you can hook these up to the TiVo and get everything working with each other. And remembering that a TiVo is a special type of personal computer, you get instructions on how to upgrade its disk. Very good for the heavy user. ... Read more

Isbn: 0072231408
Sales Rank: 89762
Subjects:  1. Computer Books: General    2. Computer Science    3. Electronics - General    4. Equipment and supplies    5. Interactive television    6. Internet - General    7. Technology    8. Technology & Industrial Arts    9. Television    10. Television & Video    11. Television Engineering    12. Technology / Electronics / General   

High-Tech Toys for Your TV: Secrets of TiVo, Xbox, ReplayTV, UltimateTV and More
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (15 March, 2002)
list price: $24.99 -- our price: $16.49
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Reviews (3)

Definitely the future of entertainment
While I rigorously maintain my status as a rider on the leading wave of software technologies, I am way behind the curve when it comes to entertainment. Before I read this book, I had only a glancing understanding of the latest technologies in capturing and replaying television broadcasts and other interactive entertainment devices (IED). Even though the information is now dated, I found the book well worth reading.
Like everything else, the advance of technology in this area is amazing, it seems that the only thing that can slow it down is legal action. Each of the descriptions starts at the most elementary of levels, yet is thorough enough so that when I was finished, I understood the advantages and disadvantages of each enhancement. Kovsky is also very diligent in pointing out the costs and explaining some of the difficulties that can be encountered when setting up and interfacing the various types of IED's. Pointers to some of the best improvements that you can do to enhance your experience are also included.
If you are new to the arena of high technology entertainment, then this is an excellent place to begin your education. Be warned however, you will be tempted to purchase some of the equipment that is described.

Great Book
This book was given to me as a gift.For someone who likes the latest gadgets but is too busy to keep up with all the product offerings, this is the perfect book.Written in clear english with a touch of personality, it is very informative and helpful.I would think that anyone who doesn't have time to shop the personal electronic stores full of people who have no idea of what they are trying to sell would love this book.

TV Tech
Everything you've always wanted to know about TV high tech tools and how to get the most out of your viewing experience is presented in this book. The straight forward, concise and to the point style leaves no room for misunderstanding. Kovsky, who has been a tech journalist for many years obviously knows what he's writing about and explains things like TiVo, game consoles, and video convergence devices with an insiders expertise. I found High-Tech Toys For Your TV very readable and extremely informative. It's a good read but an even better resource for all us TV hounds. ... Read more

Isbn: 0789726688
Sales Rank: 214312
Subjects:  1. Computer Books: General    2. Computer games    3. Convergence (Telecommunication    4. Convergence (Telecommunication)    5. Equipment, Appliances & Supplies    6. Interactive multimedia    7. Interactive television    8. Technology    9. Technology & Industrial Arts    10. Television & Video    11. Television Engineering    12. Television interactive toys    13. Video & Electronic - General    14. Computers / Input-Output Equipment   

TiVo For Dummies
by For Dummies
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (05 April, 2004)
list price: $21.99 -- our price: $14.95
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Reviews (2)

A Big Help
This book is the place to start if you don't know anything about Tivo.I certainly did not when I received a Tivo box as a gift.Figuring out how it would fit in with cable box, video tape recorder, and dvd player was daunting.The booklet that comes with the Tivo player is a good reference but Rathbone's book provides a much more readable explanation of how everything works.It not only provides clear explanations on how to set up the equipment in a variety of configurations but also explains how to get the most advantage from using Tivo.The setup and operating menus are covered as well as how to "educate" Tivo to go out and select programming most suited to individual taste.

This book would be most useful if read before first getting Tivo as it covers the different options available.Also it explains what upgrades are available along with the URL's for ordering upgrade parts.

The book is laid out with the clarity typical of the "For Dummies" line with clear diagrams, tables, and illustrations.I suspect some smart manufacturer might start including a copy right in the box along with the spare cables and fold-out assembly poster.

Title should be "Getting the Most Out of Your TiVo"
An up-front caveat - I served as the Technical Editor for this book, so I can share the blame for any outright errors... I have no financial stake in sales of the book.That said, on with the review.

When I was first approached regarding "TiVo For Dummies", I was skeptical.I was an experienced TiVo user and I thought that the TiVo manual was pretty good. I wondered what such a book could add to be worth paying for.The answer turned out to be "a lot".

As easy as TiVo is to use, it is sufficiently different from the familiar VCR as to confuse many who are new to the concept of a PVR.I have seen many newcomers to "The TiVolution" plea for help with such subjects as: wiring to an existing system, setting up a Season Pass for unusual situations, tweaking the TiVo's settings to match personal preferences, using the networking options and expanding storage capacity.Andy Rathbone covers all these topics and more in a breezy, comforting style that is never condescending (the "For Dummies" in the title is not to be taken literally.)

"TiVo For Dummies" opens with a helpful introduction to the world of PVRs, and TiVo in particular.TiVo is a hard thing to explain to someone who hasn't used one."It's a VCR with a hard disk!"Yawn. "Pause Live TV!" In the past, this has been argued as a big selling point of TiVo, but to my mind, it is one of the less interesting features. "Record your favorite shows, no matter when they're on!"Now you're talking."Record shows you like that you didn't even know were on!"Say what???(This is one of my favorite reasons to love TiVo.)Rathbone explains TiVo in a way that most readers will "get" - a worthy result in itself.

After discussion of the various types of TiVo boxes, the book walks you through installation and setup, with detailed explanations of many different configurations that go far beyond the manual's "reference book" approach.Next comes the most useful part - how to best take advantage of TiVo's many features to enhance your life.Really, most people who have TiVo will tell you that it makes TV so much more enjoyable, especiallyas you are freed from the tyranny of the networks' schedules. Rathbone illustrates clever uses of TiVo's options, some I had never considered before.

The next several chapters cover the TiVo Home Media Option (HMO), which uses a network connection to share recorded shows with other TiVos in your house and to view pictures and listen to music stored on your PC.At the time the book was written, HMO was an extra-cost option, but now it is free with the standard service. Rathbone walks you through setting up the network and enabling the feature, and then discusses various TiVo and non-TiVo tools for sending pictures and music to the TiVo.

The last major section of the book talks about upgrading the disk space on a TiVo, (easy to do if you are comfortable with adding a disk to a PC), and troubleshooting common problems.

The book ends with a collection of short chapters filled with tips and tricks, and some reference material, such as the differences between TiVo and a generic PVR.

If you are looking for information about "hacking" your TiVo, modifying it to do strange new things, this book is not for you - there are a couple of other good books on that topic, such as "Hacking TiVo" by Jeff Keegan.But if you are relatively new to TiVo, "TiVo For Dummies" will significantly enhance your TiVo experience and will reduce, if not eliminate, the small frustrations that some run into. Giving TiVo as a gift?"TiVo for Dummies" makes a great accompaniement!

And if you don't have a TiVo yet - read this book and see what you're missing!Chances are, you will soon be joining the TiVolution on your own. ... Read more

Isbn: 0764569236
Sales Rank: 19286
Subjects:  1. Computer Books: General    2. Computer software    3. Computers    4. Equipment and supplies    5. General    6. Interactive television    7. Microcomputers    8. Technology & Industrial Arts    9. Television    10. Television & Video    11. Video recording    12. Videotape Recording    13. Multimedia    14. Performing Arts / Television / General    15. Television technology   

Leo Laporte's Guide to TiVo
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (07 October, 2004)
list price: $29.99 -- our price: $19.79
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Reviews (5)

OK, but NOT FOR HACKING
This seems like a nice book for beginners to TiVo.There are occasionally intersting nuggets inside, so I don't totally hate it.For my purposes, though, it was awful.Leo LaPorte is technically savvy, but this book's description is DEFINITELY MISLEADING.It will NOT teach you how to get your Series 2 DirecTivo on the web.For that you will need "Hacking the Tivo" and a lot of time on dealdatabase.com's forums.

Featuring 432 pages of informed "user friendly" information
TiVO is one of the most increasingly popular electronic home entertainment systems in the market today. With a computer chip that makes video tape obsolte, and with the enhanced visual images that only a digital system can provided, TiVo is well on its way to making VHS video recorders as obsolete as their BetaMax predecssors. In Leo Laporte's Guide To TiVo, Leo Laporte clearly describes the hacks, upgrades, and improvements that most TiVo users are likely to perform and focuses on the things that will make life with your TiVo worth living - things such as adding a CallerID display to your television, adding a new hard drive, remote control hacks that anyone can perform and adding Web capabilities. Featuring 432 pages of informed and informative "user friendly information, Leo Laporte's Guide To TiVo is a "must" for anyone seeking to maximize what their TiVo system can offer them.

This book saved me time and grief in my upgrade.
I had a spare 120 gig drive left over from another project and found
out that I could use it to upgrade my series 1 Tivo machine.That was January 2004.I read various websites on the subject.I thought about it; read some more; thought about it some more; and never got anywhere.Finally, I read the section on InstantCake in this Leo's book and realized that this was best solution for my situation.Lucky me.I ran the program and initialized the drive for TIVO before I opened the box.My Tivo had been reconditioned and I discovered that the drive(s) configuration didn't match what I had expected from my serial number.No matter.I just pulled out the old drives and installed the new drive.It worked right away although I had to figure out how to get both LNB's working,
change the daily call phone number, and TURN OFF TIVO SUGGESTIONS (my TIVO started recording everything until I remembered that I had
to turn it off when I first got the machine.)This book saved me
time and trouble.

The only downside is what I call "sidebar-itis."This problem is not unique to this book, but it gets harder and harder to read these books with all these sidebars disrupting and distracting you
like a guy sitting behind you in a movie blabbering away.Otherwise, very useful ... Read more

Isbn: 0789731959
Sales Rank: 45999
Subjects:  1. Computer Bks - General Information    2. Computer Books: General    3. Computer Engineering    4. Computers    5. Hardware - General    6. Microcomputers    7. Television & Video    8. Videotape Recording    9. Computers / Input-Output Equipment   

HUMAX DVD-R/RW Recorder/TiVo Series2 DVR Combo DRT800
by Humax
Average Customer Review:
Electronics

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Editorial Review

The Humax DRT800 DVD recorder with Series2 TiVo service was designed to eliminate the confusion and complexity of DVD recording with a streamlined design and seamless integration with TiVo digital video recording and an attendant 80-hour hard-drive. The integration of a full-featured DVD recorder/player means you'll have the choice of recording shows to the unit's hard disk or to a write-once DVD-R or rewritable DVD-RW.

Your commercial DVDs will always look great using the set's progressive-scan video outputs (optimized for high-definition and HD-ready televisions). Front-panel audio/video inputs include a DV (digital video) IEEE 1394 jack for your DV camcorder, making it easy to copy from camcorder tapes to long-lasting DVD--perfect for sharing footage with loved ones. You can archive from the unit's hard disk to DVD, too, and the DRT800 even saves you time by letting you burn a DVD in the background while you're still recording and watching live TV.

The TiVo service included with the ($12.95 per month for the first box and $6.95 per month for additional boxes) offers the popular service features available only from TiVo. TiVo lets you search for your favorite TV show, and with the push of a button, set the DRT800 to record it automatically every time it's on. Record up to 80 hours of television entertainment without the hassles of videotape, control live television (pause, rewind, slow-motion, instant replay any channel, anytime), and schedule recordings online.

The DVR section also offers an electronic program guide (EPG), which keeps the DVR up-to-date with 14 days of program data; Season Pass recordings, with which the DVR automatically records every episode of a favorite program all season long; WishList searches to find and record all programs that feature a favorite actor, director, team, or topic; TiVo Suggestions, which automatically records shows based on your recording preferences; and smart recording, which detects line-up changes, adjusts recording times as needed and automatically, and even skips reruns.

If you're already set up for a home network, you can use the DRT800 as an extension of your network, streaming JPEG images or MP3 music files from your PC to the DRT800 for media enjoyment in the comfort of your living room. A home network also gives you access to recorded programs on multiple TiVo DVRs, too.

The DRT800's ergonomically engineered remote control puts the power to pause, rewind, slo-mo, and record right in the palm of your hand. Plus, its varied input/output connections confer multiple configuration options and a pair of USB ports grant the option of future feature expansion.

What's in the Box
DVD recorder/TiVo DVR, a 25-foot RJ-11 phone cord, a phone-line splitter, a stereo analog audio/composite-video interconnect, an RF coaxial cable, a serial (data) control cable, an IR control cable, an AC power cord, a remote control, remote batteries, a blank recordable DVD-RW disc, a user's manual, and warranty information.

Note: TiVo service is required and is available for $12.95 per month ($6.95 per month for additional boxes) or $299 for Product Lifetime. ... Read more

Features

• Browse up to 14 days of program data with the Electronic Program Guide
• Digitally records up to 80 hours of programming onto the 80GB hard drive
• MULTIPLE PLAYBACK FORMAT COMPATIBLE?including DVD Video, DVD-R/RW, CD-R/RW, A/V CD
• Control live TV by pausing and rewinding it, and create slow-motion and instant replays of any channel at anytime
• Season Pass function automatically records every episode of a favorite program all season long

Reviews (15)

Not compatible with DirecTV D10 satellite receiver.
DirecTV says the only stand-alone satellite receiver it's distributing at this time is the DirecTV (no manufacturer's name) D10-300. The Humax DRT800 doesn't "know" the IR codes for the D10-300, and no other control link is available, so the Humax can't change its channels.That makes the Humax unusable for DirecTV TiVo prgramming-unless you find some other (older model) DirecTV receiver to hook it up to.

I was also disappointed to find that the Humax can't burn programs from dual-tuner Series 2 TiVo units on the same network. Format incompatibility.

Similar image quality/hard-drive issues
Just wanted to second the comments made concerning the quality of the image as well as the machine malfunctioning.We purchased the TIVO DRT800 at the beginning of January and immediately noticed picture quality issues.Sometime in early February the machine started to skip/generally malfunction and by mid-February just plain didn't work.As others mentioned after 2 hours on the phone with Humax we were forced to put a $500 deposit down to receive a new machine until we shipped ours back.We returned the broken one in the last couple days and are hoping that the deposit is refunded without issue or more time spent on the phone with Humax.

Keeping our fingers crossed that machine #2 does not malfunction as well!!

it's fine
I was reluctant to switch to this from my beloved Tivo-only unit after reading the reviews saying it has poor image quality and is quite noisy.I bought it anyway and I'm very glad I did.It is SLIGHTLY louder than my original Tivo, but it isn't obtrusive and I sleep in the same room.After the first few hours I ceased to notice the difference.As for image quality, it's absolutely fine.I have a nine year old television with a 32 inch screen and all the reviews led me to believe that I'd be sacrificing image quality to upgrade.It's as good or better than my original Tivo.No problems at all.The only reason I gave it four stars instead of five is because the case had dark fingerprints on it and the plastic on the front was a little scratched--as if it isn't new, though it supposedly is.But, it works perfectly and since I don't spend time looking at it...Anyway, if you're worried about noise or image quality after reading some of the other (way too long) reviews, don't be, it's fine.Oh, and recording onto disk is easy.And no, it doesn't take as long to record as it does to watch the show! (People have the pettiest complaints.)I recorded West Wing on it last night, best quality, and it was done in twenty-five minutes, all while I watched something else. ... Read more

Asin: B00065ZK7M
Subjects:  1. TiVo    2. PVR (Personal video recorder)   

TiVo TCD540040 Series2 40-Hour Digital Video Recorder
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $199.99 -- our price: Too Low To Display
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

TiVo's Series2 DVR delivers plenty of recording capacity in addition to offeringentertainment services like digital music, digital photos, remote scheduling,and hassle-free favorites recording. All this and the famed luxury of being ableto pause and view instant replays of live television, too.
TiVo DVRs record television programming directly to an onboard digital ATA/IDEhard drive, eliminating the hassles of videotape (imprecise tape searching, headcleaning, steadily degrading picture, fuzzy sound, etc.). This Series2 TiVo, modelTDC540040, offers 40 GB storage for up to 40 hours of recording time in TiVo'sbest-looking chassis yet.

The Series2 has 2 USB ports, offering people with home networks the ability to stream photos and music to their TiVo, or send programs from one TiVo to another. This connectivityalso lets TiVo subscribers access exciting entertainment services throughthe TiVo Home Media Features, which consists of the TiVo Digital MusicPlayer, TiVo Digital Photo Viewer, and Multi-Room Viewing. The TiVo Digital Music Player lets you enjoy your computer's MP3 collectionthrough your home entertainment sound system. Access and control yourentire digital music collection via your TV; shuffle your music libraryby artist, album, or type of music; and create a custom playlist on yourcomputer or use third-party software to develop playlists for every mood. The TiVo Digital Photo Viewer accesses digital photos stored on yourcomputer and showcases them on your TV. View photo albums and slideshowson your TV screen, easily navigate, search, and view your computer's entiredigital photo library, play and control slideshows of photo albums, anduse the remote control to select and view individual photos.

TiVo's Series2 DVR allows users to view photosand listen to music stored on their computer or other peripheral device.

With the Multi-Room Viewing feature, userscan pause live TV and resume viewing in another room.

Multi-Room Viewing is designed for households with two Series2 DVRs andallows you to record a show on one DVR and send it to another if yourkids are watching in the living room, say, and you're watching in thebedroom. You can also start a program on one DVR and pick up where youleft off on your other DVR, as well as access the Now Playing list ofa connected Series2 DVR at any time. You can also find and schedule recordings even when you're away fromhome. With Online Scheduling, you'll have the freedom to schedule programsfrom anywhere you have a computer with an Internet connection. Just signin to TiVo Central Online to access the same recording options you haveat home. The Series2 DVR is compatible with virtually every television available.It also works with VCRs, TV antennas, cable systems, and satellite systems.A patented universal remote control simplifies program recording and controlsmultiple TiVos within the home (2 devices can share your existing phoneline). Connections include: 3 video inputs and outputs (S-video, composite-video,and RF coaxial), 1 set of stereo RCA analog audio inputs, and 2 sets ofstereo audio outputs.

TiVo subscribers can pay $12.95 per month or a one-time product lifetime feeof $299. Other benefits of TiVo service include but are by no means limitedto: Season Pass (TiVo automatically finds and records every episode of a seriesall season long, even if the network schedule changes), WishList (TiVo findsand records programs that feature your favorite actor, director, team, or eventopic), Smart Recording (TiVo detects line-up changes for you and suggests programsto match your interests, if desired), and Showcases (exclusive entertainmentplus recording shortcuts from some of the most popular networks on TV). Youcan even train TiVo to autorecord more shows you'll love when you use the ThumbsUp and Thumbs Down buttons on the supplied remote. Parental controls let youlock channels or set ratings limits based on content.

What's in the Box
TiVo DVR, user's manual, 1 stereo analog audio/video interconnect, 1 RJ-11 phone"Y" splitter, 1 dual IR blaster cable, 1 AC power cord, one 25-footRJ-11 telephone cable, 2 AA batteries, 1 RG-6 coaxial cable, 1 DB-9 serial cable,a user's manual, and warranty information. ... Read more

Features

• 2 USB ports offer broadband connectivity and the ability to stream digital music and photos from a computer to TiVo
• TiVo service includes Season Pass, WishList, program guide, digital music, digital photos, and online scheduling
• Everything required for installation is supplied; subscription to TiVo service is additional requirement
• Measures 15 x 3 x 11.5 inches (W x H x D)
• Up to 40 hours of digital audio/video recording capacity (NTSC); works with antenna, cable, digital cable, satellite, and combinations

Reviews (72)

Do NOT buy this as a gift!
I have been a happy Tivo customer for several years. Recently I purchased a 40 hour unit as a gift for my mom. Tivo fails to mention that when you buy the DVR, you can't actually digitally record anything without also buying the monthly service. It's a usless box without the service, so if you want to give this as a gift, don't, unless you want to stick the gift receiver with a useless box or a big bill. Who wants to get a gift with such a huge string attached?

Tivo 40 Hour, LOVE IT!
I just purchased my first Tivo after a couple of years of "looking" because my brother said I just had to get one!Well I did!And... HE WAS RIGHT!I've only had it up and running for less than a week, and it has already changed the way my ENTIRE FAMILY watches televison.There is no more "channel surfing" or regular tv watcing.It is all about watching what you want (you have tivo record it) when you want to! Even my "non-tecno" wife is getting a good grasp of it.It is fun to watch her hit all the right buttons and go to what show she wants! My daughter now asks to watch the "playlist" (one of the menus on the Tivo!)I really am enjoying this machine!If you are on the fence about purchasing one of these, then hop on down, and zip over to Best Buy (my favorite!) and pick one up... or of course AMAZON works too (my 2nd favorite)!

Great product!
Don't get scared when you look at the price of this product. It is $200 but it is well worth your money. With TiVo, you are able to rewind, pause or stop live television. How cool is that? You are also able to record any tv show that you want and what is even cooler is that you can enable it to that TiVo records every single episode for the certain Tv show that you want it to record. Now thats even cooler! TiVo couldn't be easier to work your way around, there is of course a tv guide installed into it so you don't need to look up times for shows in a magazine/newspaper tv guide anymore. And with this certain TiVo package, you can record up to 80 hours of tv shows. Now thats a lot! Go TiVo!

PROS:
1.Pause/rewind/stop live televion.
2.Record any tv show you want or enable it to record every episode for that certain show for you.
3. Can store 80 hours of recorded televion.
4. Installed TV Guide.

Cons:
Remote to TiVo isn't isn't fully responsive.

Get TiVo now! ... Read more

Asin: B00029ZE2S
Subjects:  1. tivo2, tivo 2, series 2, series two, tevo, 540040, tcd54    2. dvr, tapeless recorder, tapeless, 40-hr, tcd-540040    3. R540040, 40 hr, pvr, personal video recorder, tcd54040    4. series 2, tivo two, r540040, 54004A, 540040, ti-vo, 2004    5. r-540040, tevo, pause tv, r54004a, 40hr, 40hour, new    6. TiVo    7. PVR (Personal video recorder)   

TiVo R240060 60-Hour Digital Video Recorder
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $299.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

TiVo's Series2 DVR delivers more recording capacity at a lower cost than original TiVo models. TiVo DVRs record television programming directly to a digital hard drive, eliminating the hassles of videotape. This Series2 TiVo offers 60 hours of recording time in TiVo's small, sleek chassis (15 inches wide by 11.5 inches deep and 3 inches high).

TiVo automatically records your favorite shows.

The Series2 has two USB ports for ready connectivity with home networks. This connectivity also gives TiVo subscribers optional access to exciting entertainment services like music, digital photos, and multiroom viewing and scheduling via the Web. The TiVo DVR Series2 is compatible with virtually every television. It also works with VCRs, TV antennas, cable systems, and satellite systems. A patented remote control simplifies program recording and controls multiple TiVos within the home (two devices can share your existing phone line). Connections include three video inputs and outputs (S-video, composite-video, and RF coaxial), one set of stereo RCA analog audio inputs, and two sets of stereo audio outputs. A standard female RJ-11 telephone jack is the channel by which the Series2 accesses the TiVo service, or you can use a USB cable to connect via broadband.

TiVo subscribers can pay $12.95 per month or a one-time product lifetime fee of $299. Among the many benefits of TiVo service are these: Season Pass (TiVo automatically finds and records every episode of a series all season long, even if the network schedule changes), WishList (TiVo finds and records programs that feature your favorite actor, director, team, or even topic), Smart Recording (TiVo detects lineup changes for you and suggests programs to match your interests, if desired), and Showcases (exclusive entertainment plus recording shortcuts from some of the most popular networks on TV).

Now, through your home network you can access TiVo's Home Media Features. This services provides remote scheduling capabilities from anywhere you have Internet access; MP3 streaming from your PC to your TiVo so you can listen to music through your home theater sound system; digital image viewing from your PC so that you can create slideshows on your TV; and multiroom viewing, which allows you to connect two TiVo Series2 DVRs in your home so that you can record on one and watch on another. ... Read more

Features

• Works with antenna, cable, digital cable, satellite, and combinations
• Everything required for installation is supplied
• TiVo service fee is not included
• Up to 60 hours of digital audio/video recording capacity
• 2 USB ports offer ready connectivity with home networks

Reviews (198)

Must have for busy people and families
This product is great. We now have two. Transferring shows between them or to the computer is a breeze. Last Thanksgiving we had a slideshow of all of the pictures we'd taken in the last year showing on our TV in the background. This was a hit with everyone, especially with family we don't see often.

Great concept, problems with product, lots of hidden gotchas
I never had a DVR (aside from my computer) before, so when I finally managed to get my Tivo all hooked up, I was really impressed. I especially love the "Season Pass" feature which will pick out all the times your favorites program airs, and let you schedule recording for all of them in a few clicks.

But then the headaches began...

(1.) First of all, how many of us have the telephone line near our TVs? Normally, the TV and electronic gadgets are on one side of the room, and the phone is on the other - right? Tivo needs a phone line to get it's program information - at least initially. So if your house is configured like mine, be prepared to have phone line extensions strewn all across your living room while you spend up to a day downloading and installing all the program information by phone.

So of course, I almost began to drool when I read in the Manual that you can actually connect the Tivo to your local or wireless network.

(2.) Problem is, you most likely will NOT be able to connect your Tivo to your local or wireless network. I took Tivo's own approved list of hardware (direct network adapters or wireless receivers) to my local geek toy store, and bought the top recommended networking connection on the list. That didn't work, so I returned it and bought the next recommended item on Tivo's list. That didn't work either, so over the course of the next two weeks I tried three (yes, 3) more. Nothing. I finally gave up, and had to buy a long extension cord for my phone line and install it more perminent-like.

(3.) The main reason I'm here today, is because I found this page while searching for an explanation to the weird high pitched whistle noise my Tivo began making last night (after only 2 months of ownership). Turns out this is apparently an increasingly common problem - which I never heard of until today - and even more unfortunately seems to indicate that my Tivo will be totally dead in the next few days. Right now, it's literally delaying everything I do (trying to view my cable box's program guide, etc) by 30 seconds or more (the normal lag time should be around 1 or 2 seconds)

So, since I've already paid for the lifetime membership, I'm now searching for a relatively cheap way I can fix the problem myself. Do I need to replace the harddrive, the case fans, ..or what? By the way, if Tivo goes out of business, how will I get my program guide? Tivo doesn't grab the FREE TV Guide data from your cable like the no-subscription-required Panasonics can.

(4.) Oh, and also wanted to warn people about one more thing that only starts happening after you've had your Tivo for a few weeks - which is actually intentional on the part of Tivo - but which isn't mentioned anywhere in any of their manuals or documentation, for obvious reasons...

After a few weeks (if your Tivo still works), you'll start to get little on-screen pop-up alerts RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF YOUR FAVORITE PROGRAM which stay there for atleast 30 seconds until you click it or patiently wait for it to go away. And what are these prompts? ADVERTISING which actually is made to look like a really important subscriber announcement from Tivo. Maybe it's important to THEM, but I'd rather NOT see it in the middle of my TV screen. Actually, that's yet another example of Tivo's dumb implimentation: You'll only see this advertising if you're watching live TV instead of the recorded programming... and since most people with Tivos are watching the recorded programs instead of live TV, Tivo's sponsors are paying for ads that few people will ever see... Great business ideas - yes?)

In addition to these on-screen ads which interrupt your viewing, when you go to your Tivo menu, you'll find atleast TWO links to advertisements. The really bad thing about these links in particular is that they are positioned in the place where your other normal Tivo menu options are listed. So instead of selecting your "To Do List" or upcoming recordings, you might accidently find yourself watching a series of advertisements - WHICH YOU CANNOT DELETE OR REMOVE.

OK, so that's all I have to say at this point. Seems to me that Tivo had a great idea, but terrible implimentation. I don't know about their customer service, but I probably also won't even bother, if it's going to cost me $100 to $150 to ship them back their own defective product anyway.

If I can't fix the Tivo, and I'm not in the mood to pay double-or-triple in trying to get it fixed, then it's apparently just become one nice looking but useless paperweight... to which I have a lifetime subscription.

aviod at all costs!!
I got this for christmas, my first reaction was "awesome i've wanted this for awhile now!" so me and a friend started to hook this up the other day we started at 3:30 PM we finally got it hooked up at 8:30!! yep 5 hours, and i had to drive to radio shack to buy a bigger phone cable, because we brought the tv and the tivo into the kitchen to try and hook it up there but we couldn't because we needed the digital cable box... ok fine so we started over and it still didn't work! at this point im starting to get really angry we head to radio shack and get everything we need and finally we hook it up only to find out the six button on the remote doesn't work! then i tried to fast forward threw the commercials its so slow that buy the time you did you miss half of the program your supposed to be watching!! i can go on forever about this bad product... just skip it ... Read more

Asin: B00006HCJI
Subjects:  1. series two, r 140060, dvr, tapeless recorder, tevo    2. tv, pause tv, r140060, 140060    3. record, sixty hour, no tape    4. TiVo    5. PVR (Personal video recorder)    6. Replay TV   

TiVo R24008A 80-Hour Digital Video Recorder
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $299.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Early Adopters Pick: November 2002. The only digital video recorder with a content ranking system, Season Pass program recording, and WishList program recording.

TiVo's Series2 DVR delivers more recording capacity at a lower cost and also offers the latest in networked home entertainment. TiVo DVRs record television programming directly to a digital hard drive, eliminating the hassles of videotape. The TiVo Series2 offers up to 80 hours of recording time in TiVo's small, sleek chassis (15 inches wide by 11.5 inches deep and 3 inches high).

TiVo automatically records your favorite shows.

The TiVo DVR Series2 is compatible with virtually every television available. It also works with VCRs, TV antennas, cable systems, and satellite systems. A patented remote control simplifies program recording and controls multiple TiVos within the home (two devices can share your existing phone line). Connections include three video inputs and outputs (S-video, composite-video, and RF coaxial), one set of stereo RCA analog audio inputs, and two sets of stereo audio outputs. A standard female RJ-11 telephone jack is the channel by which the Series2 accesses the TiVo service.

TiVo subscribers can pay $12.95 per month or a one-time product lifetime fee of $299. Benefits of TiVo service include, but are not limited to, Season Pass (TiVo automatically finds and records every episode of a series all season long, even if the network schedule changes); WishList (TiVo finds and records programs that feature your favorite actor, director, team, or even topic); Smart Recording (TiVo detects lineup changes for you and suggests programs to match your interests, if desired); and Showcases (exclusive entertainment plus recording shortcuts from some of the most popular networks on TV).

Now, you through your home network you can access TiVo's Home Media Features. This services provides remote scheduling capabilities from anywhere you have Internet access; MP3 streaming from your PC to your TiVo so you can listen to music through your home theater sound system; digital image viewing from your PC so that you can create slideshows on your TV; and multiroom viewing, which allows you to connect two TiVo Series2 DVRs in your home so that you can record on one and watch on another. ... Read more

Features

• TiVo service fee is not included
• Up to 80 hours of digital audio/video recording capacity
• Works with antenna, cable, digital cable, satellite, and combinations
• Everything required for installation is supplied
• TiVo service eliminates the hassles of VCRs and timers

Reviews (198)

Must have for busy people and families
This product is great. We now have two. Transferring shows between them or to the computer is a breeze. Last Thanksgiving we had a slideshow of all of the pictures we'd taken in the last year showing on our TV in the background. This was a hit with everyone, especially with family we don't see often.

Great concept, problems with product, lots of hidden gotchas
I never had a DVR (aside from my computer) before, so when I finally managed to get my Tivo all hooked up, I was really impressed. I especially love the "Season Pass" feature which will pick out all the times your favorites program airs, and let you schedule recording for all of them in a few clicks.

But then the headaches began...

(1.) First of all, how many of us have the telephone line near our TVs? Normally, the TV and electronic gadgets are on one side of the room, and the phone is on the other - right? Tivo needs a phone line to get it's program information - at least initially. So if your house is configured like mine, be prepared to have phone line extensions strewn all across your living room while you spend up to a day downloading and installing all the program information by phone.

So of course, I almost began to drool when I read in the Manual that you can actually connect the Tivo to your local or wireless network.

(2.) Problem is, you most likely will NOT be able to connect your Tivo to your local or wireless network. I took Tivo's own approved list of hardware (direct network adapters or wireless receivers) to my local geek toy store, and bought the top recommended networking connection on the list. That didn't work, so I returned it and bought the next recommended item on Tivo's list. That didn't work either, so over the course of the next two weeks I tried three (yes, 3) more. Nothing. I finally gave up, and had to buy a long extension cord for my phone line and install it more perminent-like.

(3.) The main reason I'm here today, is because I found this page while searching for an explanation to the weird high pitched whistle noise my Tivo began making last night (after only 2 months of ownership). Turns out this is apparently an increasingly common problem - which I never heard of until today - and even more unfortunately seems to indicate that my Tivo will be totally dead in the next few days. Right now, it's literally delaying everything I do (trying to view my cable box's program guide, etc) by 30 seconds or more (the normal lag time should be around 1 or 2 seconds)

So, since I've already paid for the lifetime membership, I'm now searching for a relatively cheap way I can fix the problem myself. Do I need to replace the harddrive, the case fans, ..or what? By the way, if Tivo goes out of business, how will I get my program guide? Tivo doesn't grab the FREE TV Guide data from your cable like the no-subscription-required Panasonics can.

(4.) Oh, and also wanted to warn people about one more thing that only starts happening after you've had your Tivo for a few weeks - which is actually intentional on the part of Tivo - but which isn't mentioned anywhere in any of their manuals or documentation, for obvious reasons...

After a few weeks (if your Tivo still works), you'll start to get little on-screen pop-up alerts RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF YOUR FAVORITE PROGRAM which stay there for atleast 30 seconds until you click it or patiently wait for it to go away. And what are these prompts? ADVERTISING which actually is made to look like a really important subscriber announcement from Tivo. Maybe it's important to THEM, but I'd rather NOT see it in the middle of my TV screen. Actually, that's yet another example of Tivo's dumb implimentation: You'll only see this advertising if you're watching live TV instead of the recorded programming... and since most people with Tivos are watching the recorded programs instead of live TV, Tivo's sponsors are paying for ads that few people will ever see... Great business ideas - yes?)

In addition to these on-screen ads which interrupt your viewing, when you go to your Tivo menu, you'll find atleast TWO links to advertisements. The really bad thing about these links in particular is that they are positioned in the place where your other normal Tivo menu options are listed. So instead of selecting your "To Do List" or upcoming recordings, you might accidently find yourself watching a series of advertisements - WHICH YOU CANNOT DELETE OR REMOVE.

OK, so that's all I have to say at this point. Seems to me that Tivo had a great idea, but terrible implimentation. I don't know about their customer service, but I probably also won't even bother, if it's going to cost me $100 to $150 to ship them back their own defective product anyway.

If I can't fix the Tivo, and I'm not in the mood to pay double-or-triple in trying to get it fixed, then it's apparently just become one nice looking but useless paperweight... to which I have a lifetime subscription.

aviod at all costs!!
I got this for christmas, my first reaction was "awesome i've wanted this for awhile now!" so me and a friend started to hook this up the other day we started at 3:30 PM we finally got it hooked up at 8:30!! yep 5 hours, and i had to drive to radio shack to buy a bigger phone cable, because we brought the tv and the tivo into the kitchen to try and hook it up there but we couldn't because we needed the digital cable box... ok fine so we started over and it still didn't work! at this point im starting to get really angry we head to radio shack and get everything we need and finally we hook it up only to find out the six button on the remote doesn't work! then i tried to fast forward threw the commercials its so slow that buy the time you did you miss half of the program your supposed to be watching!! i can go on forever about this bad product... just skip it ... Read more

Asin: B00006LIQL
Subjects:  1. r-24008A, tevo, pause tv,    2. dvr, tapeless recorder, tapeless, ti-vo, tivoe    3. R240080, 80 hr, pvr, personal video recorder    4. r24008A, 24008A, r240080, 240080    5. TiVo    6. PVR (Personal video recorder)   

Sony SVR-3000 Digital Network Recorder
Average Customer Review:
Electronics

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• TiVo Live TV guide shows 14 day listings for shows
• Pause Live TV
• Slow Motion and Instant Replay
• Records Up to 80 Hours Of Television Programming
• Simultaneous Record And Playback from digital memory storage

Reviews (8)

The problem is with the TIVO service
I previously reviewed this at 5 stars, but there is a huge problem due to the fact that this is a sony unit and tivo software.

Whenever you have a problem with the TIVo in anyway, you must first decide who to call. If it is a hardware problem you call SONY to get it fixed. If it is a software problem you call TIVO to get it fixed. This is only a slight problem. Yes it would be better if you call the same number everytime, but it really isn't a big deal. The big problem lies whenever you have a SOFTWARE problem. TIVO will ALWAYS try and pass the buck off to SONY. Their customer support is awful, and sony customer support is much better. However just because Sony has better support doesn't mean they have the know how to take care of software problems that occur with the TIVO service.

I would much prefer for someone else (like SONY) to provide the software and service to this unit. It doesn't look like this is ever going to happen so you are stuck with the TIVO service.

My advice to anyone having problems is this:
It shouldn't be too difficult to figure out if it is hardware or software. If it doesn't even turn on (for example) it is a hardware problem. If it is a software problem call TIVO. The number isn't available anywhere at www.tivo.com because they want you to call sony first. Sony is aware of this, so it is easier to get the number from www.sony.com or the number listed for sony at www.tivo.com. Once you get tivo's number, it will be difficult getting a live operator because they want you to get your questions answered in the FAQ section. Once you get to talk to someone at tivo (wait is only about 5 minutes) they will put you on hold and come back on the line and say something like "I just talked to my supervisor and he/she told me it was a hardware problem and you need to call sony". Insist that it is a software problem, you will then be placed on hold for a tivo technical assistant (this is who you want). Generally you will be on hold for 45 to 60 minutes. Once you get to talk to them, they will be able to help you. The only difficulty is getting them on the phone because they do not have a direct number and anyone else will refer you to sony.

SONY SVR-3000 = 5 stars
TIVO SERVICE= 1 stars
overall = 3 stars

One Problem After Another!
I am a Sony fan, generally, and even own some Sony stock, but not based upon my experience with this unit!Four months after receiving it, the hard drive failed, and I had to send it back to Sony for repairs (at about $90 and had to pay shipping!).It was sent back and worked fine.Now, 5 months later, same problem!

We also have another TIVO recorder and have had no problems.I do not recommend this player!

No going back
I can't imagine watching TV the old way.The unit works perfectly and I highly recommend it.It's my favorite gadget! ... Read more

Asin: B00007FON9
Sales Rank: 68195
Subjects:  1. TiVo    2. PVR (Personal video recorder)   

Toshiba SD-H400 Combination Progressive-Scan DVD Player and TiVo Digital Media Server
by Toshiba
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $449.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Early Adopters Pick: June 2003. This is the first combination DVD player-TiVo digital video recorder.

Toshiba's SD-H400 digital media server offers the convenience of no-fee PVR service with the option for immediate upgrades alongside high-quality, progressive-scan DVD-Video playback--all from a single, easy-to-use component. The SD-H400 houses an 80 GB TiVo Series2 PVR that comes with TiVo Basic service, providing free, limited TiVo features right out of the box, with no subscription fees.

TiVo Basic service offers the ability to control live TV through features like pause, fast forward, rewind, and slow motion playback of live television; three days of electronic program guide; and manual recording capability by time and channel. The SD-H400 is the first device to offer TiVo Basic service.

The SD-H400's DVD-video section is equipped with a 10-bit/54 MHz video digital-to-analog converter for maximum color purity, detail, and resolution. When connected to a television via the unit's ColorStream Pro component-video outputs, you'll be ready to enjoy Toshiba's Digital Cinema Progressive technology with either DVDs or TiVo PVR playback. The SD-H400 can also play formats such as DVD-R, DVD-RW, video CD, CD, CD-R, CD-RW, and MP3 CDs.

Because the SD-H400 is built on TiVo Series2 technology, you have the ability to upgrade to full TiVo service to enjoy features such as Season Pass (the ability to record every episode of a program no matter when it airs, automatically), WishList (which finds and records programs that feature your favorite actor, director, or genre), Search by Title (which helps you find any show when all you know is its title), 14 days of program guide data, richer recording options, and an easy-to-use scheduling interface. (Full TiVo service costs $12.95 a month or $299 for a lifetime subscription; visit www.TiVo.com for detailed information.)

Another upgrade available to the Toshiba SD-H400 is the TiVo Home Media Option, a premium package of networked home entertainment. This configuration takes full advantage of the SD-H400's capabilities as a digital media server. The Home Media Option--an upgrade available via phone or broadband connection--lets you use the SD-H400's USB port to connect the SD-H400 to your wired or wireless home network and PC.

The Home Media Option adds the following features to the SD-H400: streaming MP3 files and digital photo viewing from a PC or Macintosh for playback through your TV or home-entertainment system, remote scheduling (through which you can schedule TiVo recordings from anywhere you can access the Internet), and connection to another TiVo Series2 PVR within your home (so you can share programs between the two units--for, say, viewing a program in the bedroom that was recorded in the family room, and vice versa). ... Read more

Features

• Progressive-scan DVD player with integrated personal video recorder
• Includes no-fee TiVo Basic service with the ability to pause live TV and store programs to the unit's 80 GB hard drive
• Offers manual recording capability by time and channel
• Compatible with DVD-R, DVD-RW, video CD, CD, CD-R, CD-RW, and MP3 CDs
• Upgradeable to full TiVo service and TiVo home-networking capabilities (through paid services)

Reviews (36)

Declining asset...jt
As is my general experience with Toshiba products, this is a quality item.It is constructed to outlast the warranty, which is an important consideration in the increasingly disposable world of consumer electronics. As an early adopter, this product introduced TiVo into my home. Now, I wouldn't have a TV without it. TiVo reduces the frustration and increases both the pleasure and the usefulness of television.

However, my advice is to skip the DVD player/TiVo combination and buy the Toshiba TiVo/DVD burner combination (Toshiba RS-TX60 DVD Recorder with 160 GB TiVo Series2 Digital Video Recorder), which enables one to burn the keepers (at 24X) without the mare's nest of cables that crisscross my video room.

This unit works flawlessly except for a time lag when shifting from TiVo/live broadcast to DVD, which is quite long --- too long for my taste. I hope that this defect is removed in the newer model. As soon as someone scorns my advice and buys my used SD-H400, I'll report my thoughts on the burner model...jt

Great product for the money
Let me start this review by saying that I ran across this item at a QVC Outlet store and it was EXTREMELY inexpensive - about $70. I had never had TiVo before so I figured for that price - "what the hell?" That said, since then I've added another Series2 TiVo to my home and just love TiVo...

The Good:
- I've seen other reviews of this product that criticize the remote, but I really like it. It is fairly large, but the layout of the nav and select buttons is very intuitive. That said, there are about 20 buttons that I never use.
- TiVo in general, rules. Not so much specific to this product, but I, like numerous others before me, agree that "TiVo will change your life". The days of scheduling time home for your own "must see TV" are over - watch it when you have time, skip the filler and commercials!
- Wireless TiVo (Home Media Option) is excellent - I had NO PROBLEMS getting this set up on my wireless network (unlike some other reviewers). One key is to follow TiVo's recommendation forwireless adapters TO THE LETTER. Plain-jane USB wireless adapters won't work - buy one of the recommended models. Once set up, you can stream music from your PC and view your digital pictures through the TiVo, two excellent features.
- My unit has worked flawlessly since I got it - no freezes, crashes or other problems.

The Bad:
- I'm really irritated by the DVD copy protection setup on this unit. If you want to watch a DVD, you can't have a VCR inline or the Macrovision copy protection is triggered, brightening and darkening the screen to deter taping of DVD's. Problem is, there's a good chance you might want to tape some shows from your TiVo, which means you need to jury-rig a setup to work around this nasty little problem. It's kind of moronic, which is typical of the Movie industry.
- Switching from TiVo mode to DVD mode takes too long.
- It's a fairly large unit, depthwise, and you may want to measure your cabinets before purchase. Mine was slightly too shallow and I needed to get the drill out for "modifications" in order to make it fit.
- This is one of the few TiVo models that has "Basic TiVo" built-in. Admittedly, Basic TiVo is an extremely hobbled version of the full TiVo service, but if you don't want to spend the money each month, this can be a nice feature. In addition, it gives you time to get used to the TiVo and its main functions before setting up the full service.

All in all, I'm very, very satisfied with the product and service.

I LOVE THIS THING!
This Tivo unit rocks. It is great. No problems with it yet, and we have had it for over 3 months. We thought TIVO was just glorified VCR recording, but we were wrong. It changed the way we watch TV.

The set-up is easy, and the phone support has been great.

A VERY good deal, INHO. ... Read more

Asin: B0000AA9E8
Subjects:  1. tosheba, toshbia, tosheeba, sdh400    2. sdh-400, sdh40, shd400, shd-400    3. sdh-40, sd-h4, tv record, tevo    4. tapeless, dvr, digital video recorder    5. multi media, multimedia    6. DVD Player (Digital Versatile Disc Players)    7. TiVo    8. PVR (Personal video recorder)   

Apex ADR1000 Progressive-Scan DVD Player with 40-Hour Digital Video Recording
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $249.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Enjoy the best of both worlds with the Apex ADR-1000's top-of-the-line DVD playback and state-of-the-art hard-disk video recording. The player's premium-quality progressive-scan outputs provide seamless, dynamic DVD images (viewable on high-definition and HD-ready TVs). The ADR-1000 also decodes the popular MP3 and Windows Media Audio music formats. And, if you burn pictures from a digital camera to CD-Rs and CD-RWs, you can even use it for watching slideshows right on a TV. Apex's active full screen function (AFF) helps resize widescreen (16:9 aspect ratio) video images to fill 4:3 aspect-ratio sets. For recording, the ADR-1000 offers a full 40 GB, 40-hour capacity and the ability to time shift your viewing or program the unit to begin recording at a set time.

Whether your living room is currently home to an HDTV or you're merely thinking of "someday," the ADR-1000 stands ready to deliver the full potential of DVDs. Progressive scanning, referred to as 480p for the number of horizontal lines that compose the video image, creates a picture using twice the scan lines of a conventional DVD picture, giving you higher resolution and sharper images while eliminating nearly all motion artifacts. In any case, standard composite- and S-video outputs bring compatibility with nearly any television.

A set of left/right analog-audio outputs channels audio to Dolby Pro Logic receivers and stereo televisions. Both Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1-channel surround-sound signals can be routed through the player's digital-audio outputs (one each optical and coaxial) for direct connection to a full-featured audio/video receiver. ... Read more

Features

• Includes Apex Full-screen Function for viewing widescreen movies in full-screen on 4:3 TVs
• Single-disc progressive-scan DVD player renders seamless images on HD and HD-ready TVs
• 40 GB hard drive stores up to 40 hours of programming (offers time-shifted viewing, timed recording)
• Plays MP3 and WMA CDs, JPEG and Kodak picture CDs
• Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1-channel digital output (for immersive surround sound when used with a compatible AV receiver)

Reviews (1)

Does anybody have a rating on this?????
Seems like this has been out a while, but i haven't seen one review on it.Anybody? ... Read more

Asin: B00008N6XF
Subjects:  1. adr1000, adr-1000, 1000, adr1, adr10, adr100    2. adr-100, ad-r1000, ad-r100, a-dr1000    3. ard1000, dvr, 40hr, tapeless, progresive    4. dvd combo, dvr/dvd, dv-r, record    5. DVD Player (Digital Versatile Disc Players)    6. Replay TV    7. PVR (Personal video recorder)   

Philips HDR212 TiVo 20 Hour Digital Video Recorder
by Philips
Average Customer Review:
Electronics

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Enjoy tapeless recording with up to 20 hours of storage space
• Features instant replay of live TV and interactive program menu
• Automatically records your favorite TV shows and suggests new ones
• Includes remote control, 4 picture-quality settings, multiple browse modes
• Compatible with most antenna, cable, and satellite TV sources

Reviews (28)

You have to have this.
If you're even bothering to VISIT this site, you are a person that needs Tivo.I bought our Tivo two years ago, and it has transformed our lives.Seriously.We never, ever bother to rush home to avoid missing Friends.We never pick up a TV Guide.We never miss new episodes of Trading Spaces or Modern Marvels.Sopranos?Got it.Sex and the City?We've seen every one.

The funniest thing about having Tivo is that it changes your television conversations with others... I might tell someone about a cool new show (something Tivo selected FOR me that I wound up liking, for example), and the person will ask, "What channel is it on?"

I have no clue.

"Well, WHEN is it on?"

No idea.Tivo takes care of everything!I watch WHAT I want WHEN I want.Channels... times... superfluous!

Tivo takes EVERY SINGLE responsibility or burden off of you, the television watcher.Cliched as it may sound, Tivo really is "TV Your Way!"It's easier than a VCR with better quality, control, and versatility... I can certainly understand why the media isn't advertising it (have I MENTIONED that I haven't watched a TV commercial in TWO YEARS?), but I can't understand anyone not having this in his or her home.

It streamlines your television viewing, and saves you time, turning television into an active and dynamic pasttime, instead of the modern-day opiate of the masses.Sound good to you?If you get it, I cannot imagine you regretting it!

Tivo, great if it worked!
10/30/03

My Philips TiVo 20 hour Tivo was working great for about four or five hours until the hard drive started acting up.Now the Hard drive seems to be messed up some how and all I can see now is a bunch of lines and blank screen.Now I have to go through the trouble of getting it fixed.This SUCKS because I just spent $150.00 for it and now the stupid thing won't work!

When it works
I love the concept of the product.It's great when it works.Today, I'm sending it in because they say the hard drive needs to be replaced.I don't know if I will send it in.The exchange price is almost the cost of a new one.Funny how it waited one month after the warrenty was up.This one is really the fourth one that I've had.The first three didn't work out of the box.In order to get this one, I had a very patient Best Buy employee go through their stock until we found one that did work.In the end, there was only one left on the shelf. ... Read more

Asin: B00004UE2J
Sales Rank: 28120
Subjects:  1. TiVo    2. PVR (Personal video recorder)   

Philips HDR312 TiVo 30-Hour Digital Video Recorder
by Philips
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $299.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Unlike analog VCRs, Philips's HDR312 personal TV receiver uses TiVo technology to store compressed audio-video data to a computer hard disk. When you're ready to watch a preselected program, the HDR312 retrieves it upon command from a list of shows you've recorded.

Among the most revolutionary aspects of the Philips/TiVo server is the ability to pause live broadcasts and either resume a program where you left off or return to the program in real time. For example, while watching live sporting events, you can replay the last eight seconds of the action. You can then return to the live broadcast at any time. Using the palm-size remote, you can rewind and fast-forward pretaped programs, skipping through recorded commercials if you choose.

Philips supplies all the necessary cables for setting up the HDR312, including a 50-foot phone line and splitter. You don't need a separate phone line; simply connect the splitter to the wall, connect your phone and receiver cable to the splitter, and you're in business. The phone line is vital, however, for downloading TV listings; recording shows; and receiving TiVo's Suggestions feature, which suggests programs you might enjoy based on your previous selections, and TiVolution Magazine, which offers recommendations on the best programs to watch. After the initial download, the receiver spends about five minutes updating your programming data each night.

TiVo's onscreen setup guide includes easy step-by-step instructions. TiVo charges $12.95 a month for its weekly listing service, TiVolution Magazine, and its Suggestions feature, or you can pay a one-time service charge of $299.

Once you've selected a program to record, you have four choices of picture quality: basic, medium, high, or best. The higher settings take up more storage space, which translates into fewer hours of available record time. ... Read more

Features

• Jump-to-live button on remote
• 225 channels featuring movies, sports, and pay-per-view programming
• Up to 30 hours of storage capacity
• 8-second instant replay feature
• Pause, fast-forward, and rewind

Reviews (226)

Great unit . . Lousy Tech Support/Service
I have had a philips hdr312 TIVO unit for about 18 months.I LOVE TIVO. It is amazing and my family are all TIVO lovers. Even my wife, who hates all my electronics, loves tivo. The pause, rewind and Fast forward are awesome.We never start to watch our show until 20 minutes into it so we can zoom through comercials and still end at normal time.

Now the negative . . my units modem went bad, I sent it to Philips, cost $99 + 25 for shipping.Recieved it back 2 weeks later saying "no repair made, no problem found". Unit was still broken, called service and they agreed I should ship it back (another $25).Again, 2 weeks later returned "no repair made, no problem found".Agian I called philips, they agreed and said they would swap unit with a refurbished unit. I asked that they pay for shipping, they agreed and told me I would recieve a UPS call tag via email with 3-5 days. 3 weeks later and a dozen phone calls, still no call tag and each time I called I was promised by a supervisor I would get it the next day. One Tech support guy told me he's seen this take up to 30 days to get a UPS call tag and suggested I just pay for shipping myself if I do not want to wait. I asked them how is it that if I wanted to return something to L.L. BEAM, UPS would be at my house the next day, yet philips can't seem to get one to me for 3 weeks now.His response "were not L.L.BEAM"

At that point, I finally researched the company and contacted the President of the US division. He was wonderful. He was appauled at my story and within 1 hour of talking to him, (still amazed I got him on the phone)I had someone call me to inform me they were shipping overnight a brand new HDR612(The next model up). The unit arrived Friday, but I was not home, so I am waiting for redelivery tommorow.

I was happy to see management was very upset with the service I recieved and how quickly they reacted to my situation. Hopefully, this might shake up the service department and no one else will go through what I went through.

To the President of Philips . . Thank You!

12 out of 14 work just fine!
I see quite a few comments on this page about modems and hard drives dying on Series 1 or Series 2 Philips DVR's (aka, Tivos). Between my family and friends, I know of 12 Tivos that have had NO hard drive or modem problems whatsoever! The first one was purchased almost 4 years ago, too!
The two Tivos that we have had problems with are both Philips Series 1 models. Both have had modem failures. Both have been connected to phone lines that have experienced surges -- my brother's during a thunderstorm and mine due to a 40+ year old wall jack that corroded. I think the folks with multiple Tivo failures need to look at their phone systems!
I do agree, though, that having to pay $80 just to talk to a techie about my dead modem was a bit excessive. I will not do that again. $25 or $60 modem replacement kits are available.

Tivo great, Phillips stinks.
No doubt Tivo is the invention of the millenium, if you love TV (especially sports) like I do. But Phillips Tivo units are the worst electronic product I think I have ever purchased. There is a reason their warranty is 'limited' and after 90 days you will pay something to get it fixed. Every Phillips Tivo unit I've had, including the new 7000 unit, has broken in under a year, but over the 90 day full guarantee. And don't think you are actually going to talk to someone at Phillips, not without giving them your credit card # you aren't. Unfortunately, it appears the new Directv Tivo units are made by Phillips. Ugh. Bad choice, Directv. ... Read more

Asin: B00002SWHH
Subjects:  1. Television Receivers, tv receiver,hrd-312    2. Servers (Server), Recorders, Recorder    3. hdr-312, hd312, PVR, DVR, personal receiver    4. hd-312, personal recorder, digital recorder    5. HDR, 312, Ti Vo, 30 hour, 30 hr,hrd312    6. TiVo    7. PVR (Personal video recorder)