When considering cable and satellite television service, one thing to really examine is the digital video recorder boxes offered by the company you are considering. While they basically function in the same way, you may get more bang for your buck if you go with a Dish Network DVR. Why? Because the DVR devices from Dish Network are generally considered top of the line, even on par with the pioneer of digital video recorders, TiVo.
The good thing to know going into the process is that you can usually obtain a Dish Network DVR at no cost if you are a new subscriber. The reason for this is that Dish TV is willing to provide you with the DVR hardware in exchange for you as the customer paying them for service for a period of two years. While there is an ongoing monthly service fee for the DVR, it is well worth it when you see how much time you will save, and how convenient it is to use.
The three main Dish Network DVR’s on the market are the DuoDVR ViP 722, the DuoDVR 625, and the Solo DVR ViP 612. Here is a brief review of what each has to offer.
The Dish DuoDVR ViP 722 is the most popular model currently available. This model hooks you into one HDTV, and one standard definition TV that can be in a separate room. Up to 55 hours of HD programming can be saved, or 350 hours of SD programming. The ViP 722 is a good choice if you have one HDTV, and another older TV in your home where you want to be able to access DVR content.
The Dish DuoDVR 625 supports viewing on two different standard definition TV’s at the same time, or viewing on one set while recording another show. This DVR holds up to 150 hours of content in standard definition format. The display resolution is 480i, and you can also use picture in picture or PIP, to watch two programs on one TV.
Finally, the Solo DVR ViP 612 is a good choice if you are looking to hook up one HDTV. The ViP612 hard drive holds up to 30 hours of HD, and 200 hours of standard def content like the ViP 722. Display resolutions supported include 480i, 480p, 720p, and 1080i. You also can hook your home phone line into any of the Dish Network DVR receivers and get on-screen caller ID as long as you have a subscription with your local telephone company like AT&T or Verizon.
Like TiVo or DVRs from the cable company, the Dish Network DVR is easy to use. The interactive menu is controlled with the same remote used to change channels. One touch recording allows you to quickly record something you are watching if you need to return to it later. Of course you can also pause live TV, skip commercial on recorded content, and fast forward or rewind with the touch of a button.
Overall, the Dish Network DVR is a top of the line recording device when compared to cable DVR’s and TiVo.
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As an employee with DISH I own a 722 HD receiver and I love it! It lets your have so many features. I have a DVR so I can record 350 hours of SD shows and 55 of HD shows. I also have the ability to have TV Everywhere. Having TV Everywhere with my 722 is wonderful! Having a TV in my pocket is great for when I’m on a light rail, in a doctor’s office, or even for my daughter when I’m at the store shopping. The 722 is a great product and I can wait to see what’s next.