I have one. It feeds my 5 HD receivers..

Now if FOX could just figure out why the logo is staying on...

My record light is on but my DVR is not scheduled to record anything. It has been on al day today. Has anyone experienced this before? I plan to reboot the box b ut I Was wondering if there is anything else that I should try first.

Originally posted by bdfox18doe
Now if FOX could just figure out why the logo is staying on...

Local issue, call the station and bitch. :)

It's actually less distracting during football than it is during regular network programming.

Originally posted by CPanther95
Local issue, call the station and bitch. :)

Nope. FOX control issue..as we can't insert the bug during network time..

I can make it go away, but I'd have to reboot the spilcer on-air, and I don't think you'd like that.. :D

New FOX bug position is perfect on my setup. Why the green instead of red?

The splicer needs a full power cycle as it is having some issues..I think it missed its meds today...takes 4 minutes or so..We may do it at the end of the game before Baseball..

During the Giants vs Cowboys game the picture didn't look all that great. The grass was real blotchy. What resolution was the feed in? I can never tell with my Sony 30" what the feed is as it upsamples everything to 1080i anyway.

PAT

Originally posted by PTgraphics
During the Giants vs Cowboys game the picture didn't look all that great. The grass was real blotchy. What resolution was the feed in? I can never tell with my Sony 30" what the feed is as it upsamples everything to 1080i anyway.

PAT

CBS uses 1080i. Fox, ABC, and ESPN use 720p. If NBC ever did any HD sports, it would be 1080i.

I've noticed that SD improves on the 8000HD-DVR box when it gets a "good" boot.
On a bad boot it's not watchable.....so I unplug & replug (repeatedly if necessary) until it's good again.
1st generation technology....no doubt.
I'm sure it will get better :)

Wonder what rebooting would do to improve PQ. I'm not saying it doesn't - after all, it is SA hardware.

I've noticed that SD improves on the 8000HD-DVR box when it gets a "good" boot.

Also, make sure the second tuner (PIP) isn't on an HD channel.

If anyone is interested, I heard that C-SET will start airing Saturday night at midnight (ch. 150). They will be showing 68 Bobcats games this year as well as other local high school and college sports.

Hopefully C-SET will begin to do HD relatively quickly. Also, in addition to channel 150, there are 2 VOD channels somewhere in the 800's that aren't yet active.

Originally posted by doppler1
Hopefully C-SET will begin to do HD relatively quickly.


That would be nice, but I highly doubt it.

Ive had to rebbot evryday since this saturday. Pic is completely frozen and will not change when I turn the tv on. Looks like another half day off from work to wait on time warner. Sure is nice to use 4 vacation days waiting on TW. Wish directtv would offer a free hd receiver.

I've noticed several times lately when I turn the TV on that it starts on channel 02 instead of the channel I left it on. I think the box may have been rebooting itself while turned off because I never watch channel 02 (analog cbs). It hasn't rebooted while I was watching it in a week and a half or so. Did anyone ever get an answer out of the TW guys on this issue?

Originally posted by chief17
I've noticed several times lately when I turn the TV on that it starts on channel 02 instead of the channel I left it on. I think the box may have been rebooting itself while turned off because I never watch channel 02 (analog cbs). It hasn't rebooted while I was watching it in a week and a half or so. Did anyone ever get an answer out of the TW guys on this issue?

That's the default start channel. If you go into settings you can select a channel for the box to start with each time you turn it on.

Is there anything else in the works for HD now that we have ESPN HD?

Originally posted by namcap
Is there anything else in the works for HD now that we have ESPN HD?

I know. I have it set to start on the channel you had it on when it was last turned off, but it has started on channel 02 several times lately.

Originally posted by chief17
I've noticed several times lately when I turn the TV on that it starts on channel 02 instead of the channel I left it on. I think the box may have been rebooting itself while turned off because I never watch channel 02 (analog cbs). It hasn't rebooted while I was watching it in a week and a half or so. Did anyone ever get an answer out of the TW guys on this issue?

Yes this has happened to me a couple of times in the last week. I have the last channel viewed as my start option & I to very rarely watch channel 2 as it's about the worse reception of any of the analog stations. This tells me the box has rebooted since the last time I watched it.

Originally posted by chief17
That would be nice, but I highly doubt it.

My boss at a local TV station is doing the camera spotting for the in house camera feed (scoreboards and tv's around the coliseum) at bobcats games this year. He said their are no plans for HD on CSET anytime soon.... Maybe in the new arena, but i wouldnt count on it...

Looks like the 8000HD's got upgraded to version 159 last night. I didn't notice anything new, but hopefully this version will take care of the reboots.

I just read all the new posts and don't see anyone with this problem. I am having problems with audio dropouts and some video dropouts. Mostly audio though. I've tried rebooting the box.

Also didn't see any new news about the gray bars. Any one know when or if they will ever fix this? I really hate the black bars.

does anyone know if the Movies on Demand, or pay per movies are shown in HD? Or DVD quality (480) at least?

If so, do they also broadcast in DD 5:1?

Originally posted by jl0810
does anyone know if the Movies on Demand, or pay per movies are shown in HD? Or DVD quality (480) at least?

If so, do they also broadcast in DD 5:1?

They are not shown in HD.

There was a hidden channel for MODHD for a while, but I don't think it is there anymore. All the channels are at least 480...okay, I know what you meant, and no, they are all 480i 4:3 (the widescreen ones are just 4:3 with bars). I may be mistaken, but I believe they do broadcast in DD.

I still prefer to rent the movies because they provide better PQ and the proper aspect ratio.

anyone notice last night for a while 285 was not showing espnhd but oln, or was it just me?

Just a heads-up on some of the shows scheduled for Friday night. A number of them are showing up as repeats in the guide and not showing in the sceduled recordings list because they are postponed episodes from last week when the Presidential debate was on.

Originally posted by sbirnie
anyone notice last night for a while 285 was not showing espnhd but oln, or was it just me?

I didn't see this last night, but it did the same earlier in the week. I was on about beer five or six, and thought it was just me...

as Homer would say: mmmm...Beer! :D

So why no HD for the Charger/Falcons game over on CBS? Its not just me is it?

Why does 60 minutes run long every Sunday? I want to watch my Cold Case but it get's delayed every week... Errrrrrr...

CBS screws up my Cold Case every Sunday...

Sorry had to vent.

You can go back to watching TV now.

Originally posted by rcase13
Why does 60 minutes run long every Sunday? I want to watch my Cold Case but it get's delayed every week... Errrrrrr...

CBS screws up my Cold Case every Sunday...

Sorry had to vent.

You can go back to watching TV now.
One word: FOOTBALL!
:D

I am watching Sunday Night Football on ESPN (in HD). From 9:00-10:00 I was also recording Desperate Housewives (also in HD) with the other tuner on the HD-DVR. During that time I was getting TERRIBLE freezing and audio dropouts on the football game. Every 7 or 8 seconds there was studdering or freezing of some kind. It was unwatchable.... I had to go in another room and watch on another TV. At 10:00 I set the second tuner to record something on a non HD channel and I haven't noticed the problem at all since then. Has anyone else noticed this, or is it just me? Does Time Warner not provide enough bandwidth to record/watch 2 HD channels at the same time? I already have an amp installed and they say my signal level is very good, so I imagine that others are having this problem as well.

I have the same problem. I think I may have tracked my problems down though. When I record two HD channels I will get more freezes and audio dropouts than normal. Not to bad though. I try to avoid hitting the last button while recording. This really throws my box for a loop.

My two big problems have been solved or at least I know the source of the problems. I split my signal so I could watch the SD channels directly. My signal must not be strong enough to handle this because My audio dropouts and video freezes increased significantly. Alas I will have to be happy with the gray bars. I really really hate the gray bars. It's almost enough to give up the box... Almost... :)

Now the bulk of my freezes and dropouts are only on one channel. HD-CBS. This is unfortunate because they have my favorite show... Cold Case.

Now when are we getting Bravo HD?

Never Happy...

Ive had to reboot my box about 10 times this weekend. The box has rebooted by itself about 15. TW has put an amp on my line and it hasnt helped. Now I get to meet TW for the 8th time since May. The next time I meet TW it will be to let them pick up their equipment.

Originally posted by rcase13
I have the same problem. I think I may have tracked my problems down though. When I record two HD channels I will get more freezes and audio dropouts than normal.

I guess I didn't make it obvious enough in my first post, but I think that is whats causing my problems too. I assume it's a bandwidth issue. It's a shame that TW doesn't provide enough to watch (or record) 2 HD shows at once since that is one of the advertised features of the DVR box I am paying for. As soon as i stopped recording the HD show on the second tuner I didn't have another dropout.

"I assume it's a bandwidth issue. It's a shame that TW doesn't provide enough to watch (or record) 2 HD shows at once since that is one of the advertised features of the DVR box I am paying for."

Incorrect assumption - it's a buffering issue within the box. That is why when watching an HD, you check the PIP (second tuner) to make sure it isn't on an HD as well.

I'm still getting fairly frequent spontaneous reboots and/or going into a condition where codes flash on the LED display of my DVR's (one SD, one HD, both do the same thing). The box is unuseable while it's in this condition, and a reboot will usually bring it back although sometimes I have to unplug the box to get it to recover. Anyone else seeing this or are my boxes both just about to die?

Originally posted by Baler
Incorrect assumption - it's a buffering issue within the box. That is why when watching an HD, you check the PIP (second tuner) to make sure it isn't on an HD as well.

Ok, well does anyone know if TW aware of the issue? Is is something that can be taken care of with a firmware update? Hopefully they are working with SA to get it fixed. I would like to be able to watch one HD show and record another one at the same time since that is what the box is supposed to do.



Faustus: I am still getting some reboots on my HD-DVR box but I don't think I am experiencing as many as some of the other users (Davew0670 for example) are. I still think my box is rebooting once every other day or so when I am not home because occasionally when I turn it on it starts on ch. 02. i have not had the other issue you mentioned with the flashing codes.

Originally posted by shine5555
I have the SA2000HD box from TWC @ this time. They have been promising the new SA3100 box to me for over three weeks now. They keep calling me back and changing the appt. At this time I do not even have an appt. anymore.

Can any on tell me the level they get on their box? I get –9 to –11 all the time. –9 is in yellow and –11 is in red. I ask because the digital channels (150-165?) and the HBO channels (300-317) all look really poor. I get a lot of pixalation and the jitters; it is very hard to watch. A neighbor had Direct TV and his digital channels look a lot better than TWC’s digital channels. Of course my analog channels also look poor. The HD channels look good though. I think the SA3100 box is going to fix this, or at least that is what I have been told.

I live in the Huntersville area and use a Toshiba 34hx81. I hope we can keep this thread going. Any one knows whom to email at Fox and ABC? All my favorite shows are on those channels. As of late I watch a lot more CBS.

- Scott


huntersville here also! anyone used dish network? they have a free hd rec with installation.

Originally posted by shine5555
I have the SA2000HD box from TWC @ this time. They have been promising the new SA3100 box to me for over three weeks now. They keep calling me back and changing the appt. At this time I do not even have an appt. anymore.

Can any on tell me the level they get on their box? I get –9 to –11 all the time. –9 is in yellow and –11 is in red. I ask because the digital channels (150-165?) and the HBO channels (300-317) all look really poor. I get a lot of pixalation and the jitters; it is very hard to watch. A neighbor had Direct TV and his digital channels look a lot better than TWC’s digital channels. Of course my analog channels also look poor. The HD channels look good though. I think the SA3100 box is going to fix this, or at least that is what I have been told.

I live in the Huntersville area and use a Toshiba 34hx81. I hope we can keep this thread going. Any one knows whom to email at Fox and ABC? All my favorite shows are on those channels. As of late I watch a lot more CBS.

- Scott


huntersville here also! anyone used dish network? they have a free hd rec with installation.

I've had the same issues with re-boots for my HD-DVR, and have noticed the same thing on Sunday nights. I'll watch football on ESPN-HD, and record The Wire on HBO-HD. The pauses and 'glitches' are more frequent. So I've done nothing but re-iterate to you all the same problems, but here's something else...

My signal on 225 (CBS-HD) has been awful for weeks, especially during CBS HD programs. TWC attributes this to a weak signal coming from the pole outside the house. In fact, last week the service guy replaced the line because there was "water in the line." Damned squirrels! He also indicated that the signal had been split off once it came in the house, and that - obviously - is weakening what gets to the box. He suggested running new lines, all of them "home runs" all the way to the box outside the house.

I asked them on a previous visit if a line amp might help. The service guy said that just creates "other problems." Saying all that to say this: Obviously first generation HD-DVR's have issues, but another issue could be the strength of signal coming into the house.

TWC will be here today. I'll re-post if "home runs" do the trick.

While I was having all kinds of problems with the HD-DVR initially, I have had few if any reboots in the last couple of weeks. I believe a lot of it was attributable to the first box I had which has since been replaced. For what it's worth, I have also not had any problems recording two HD programs at the same time. Only problem I have now is occassional dropouts (maybe one an hour for a second or so). Although it's tough to swap boxes (and therefore lose all the recordings you've got on there), it might be worth a shot.

i'm a new subscriber to TWC HD....and a user of the SA8000HD

Heard alot of negative posts about the box, including reboots, and other issues....

for what it's worth, my box has been problem free - and I often record two HD channels at once.....so there are good boxes out there - mine certainly is testimony to this...good luck getting one that works...there is hope

(btw, my runs are all home runs - since I'm a DirectTV convert, and all DirectTv lines *must* be home runs, i just simply leverage those lines from the outside box - i know this has to help some)

Just wanted to give FOX a great big thumbs up on their HD coverage. Doing all of the baseball games and footbal on Sundays is quite a feat! Not to mention the fact that the picture quality is outstanding! Hats off to the network and our local affiliate! Thanks!

Ya welcome!

Yes, great job fox... and that was a great series between the Sox and Yanks. ;)

I have a question though. Every once in a while I see a shot that is in HD but has some kind of intereference lines running through it. It only appears to happen with shots from particular cameras. I noticed it a lot with shots of the crowd. Has anyone else noticed this, or is it just me?

Originally posted by chief17
I have a question though. Every once in a while I see a shot that is in HD but has some kind of intereference lines running through it. It only appears to happen with shots from particular cameras. I noticed it a lot with shots of the crowd. Has anyone else noticed this, or is it just me?
I assume it's because not ALL the cameras they use for the broadcast are HD cameras, at least right now. So you're probably watching a feed from an SD camera. But considering all the sporting events (baseball AND all NFL games) Fox is doing in HD, I can forgive a few lower definition crowd shots.

But I agree that Fox's HD sports coverage has been superb. I don't even like baseball, but my wife and I watched a lot of the past couple of games just because it looked so darn good -- and, of course, because of the inherent drama involved.

No, I'm sure it was happening on shots from HD cameras. I don't think they had any SD cameras... at least I didn't notice any.

Has anyone had trouble receiving the HD networks over cable in the Statesville/Mooresville area? I'm on Adelphia and the network stations (ABC, Fox, CBS, NBC) have been dropping out over the past two days. I still receive ESPN-HD and INHD/INHD2, however.

I imagine it is just a matter of time before they have them back up, but I wanted to see if anyone else has experienced this problem in my area. I found it strange that it was just the network channels, but the other 3 work fine (or at least they did when I checked this morning *crosses his fingers*);)

Is anyone rec. HD pic on CBS (225) or any signal on 226 or 227?

Originally posted by rcasenc
Is anyone rec. HD pic on CBS (225) or any signal on 226 or 227?

I'm recording CSI on WBTV (CBS) 225. Once again they forgot to flip the HD switch!!

CBS takes the award for forgetting to flip the HD switch!

Same situation here on 225, 226 and 227

okay -good..i thought my box was screwed up

I've been recording all the new CSI's (reg, Miami, NY) and I would say about 50% have been SD (even though they say they are being broadcast in HD)

What's the deal? This is pretty unacceptable?

"Relax, Homer has everything under control at the station." ...Flanders.

WBTV (CBS) has had an equipment failure on the digital side of thier network. Because of this failure, they only have the capability to broadcast one digital channel instead of three, and the one they can broadcast at this time is only in SD. Called the station today, and was given this information. They are working to correct the problem, but have no ETR. Until this is fixed, no CBS HD!!!

Thanks for posting that uscgamecocks - I was just about to ask what had happened. Hopefully they will be able to get the HD feed back up quickly.

...apparently not in time for the Panthers game....oh, how I miss Fox

The same could happen to us as well, as our system, just like virtually
all other stations, have no HD redundancy. So, that comment cannot be supported.

Originally posted by bdfox18doe
The same could happen to us as well, as our system, just like virtually
all other stations, have no HD redundancy. So, that comment cannot be supported.

Could happen, but hasn't happened to WCCB preventing an HD Panther game. Take your kudos Bob, whenever you can - whether they are earned or not. :)

You have to feel for WBTV though. They get only 2 Panther games and this happens now. The ironic thing is I'm actually watching the game more now than usual because switching to an HD game makes the SD game look like crap everytime I switch back. Don't tell WBTV that though. ;)

Originally posted by CPanther95
Could happen, but hasn't happened to WCCB

at least not "YET" and will at some point..if the FOX splicer were to fail, I don't know how quickly we could get around the problem.

But thanks for the kudos anyway..

I don't think the Panther/Chargers game was in HD anyway....The truck and the cameras looked like they have been around a while.

Bob...I have noticed that FOX used a portable uplink to backhaul the games. CBS was using the Vvyx. Can they feed HD on Vvyx?

FOX also used the newly installed fiber for their cameras instead of triax. The CBS cameras were using triax.

t123

Originally posted by Check123
I don't think the Panther/Chargers game was in HD anyway....The truck and the cameras looked like they have been around a while.

...well that's even worse ! Game not in HD, and couldn't broadcast it even if it was. I'm not out to beat up CBS/WBBT - but Fox is certainly setting a standard that the "Old 3" don't seem able to, or interested to, keep up with. I've only been observing HD for 3 months - but I think in those 3 months you can certainly get a feel for the networks that "get it", and the ones who don't (NBC Sports). Also it does seem to transcend to the local affililates

Originally posted by jl0810
...well that's even worse ! Game not in HD, and couldn't broadcast it even if it was. I'm not out to beat up CBS/WBBT - but Fox is certainly setting a standard that the "Old 3" don't seem able to, or interested to, keep up with. I've only been observing HD for 3 months - but I think in those 3 months you can certainly get a feel for the networks that "get it", and the ones who don't (NBC Sports). Also it does seem to transcend to the local affililates

Hold up on the WBTV bash. Neither WBTV nor WCCB have the capability to broadcast an HD program without network help.......HD truck. So it is really a CBS deal and not a local problem.

My bash was shared for "CBS/WBBT"

Originally posted by jl0810
My bash was shared for "CBS/WBBT"

Well just don't forget that CBS/WBTV was broadcasting HD years ahead of Fox/WCCB. I don't think CBS/WBTV is behind anyone when it comes to HD. And now that Fox/WCCB has finally joined the other networks we all have a good deal here in Charlotte.

Like I said - this is from 3 months or so of watching HD here..and comes from my casual observance..i don't have stats, or numbers to back it up....

All I know is that when there's a sporting event on Fox...i generally can expect:

1. It will be broadcast in HD
2. It will have 5.1 sound
3. The quality will be superior - to my untrained eye

Nothing against CBS - i just think Fox is better (much better) in this area.

The comments here prove a point here as to why there is very little participation from the broadcast community overall on AVS forum,
and especially here in Charlotte.

WBTv has done an excellent job overall with CBS HD. But, the first time there are problems the bashing starts. Especially by those who have no clue (to say the least) as to what is required to make HD happen on a regular, consistent basis. Am I defending WBTV? Yes, as I was part of
the engineering team who put WBTv-DT on air back in 1997..
While I have not spoken with them, based on what I've seen of their signal,
it's a local multiplexor problem and not a CBS reception issue. And equipment will fail, I can't wait until we have a failure and the ingrates begin the bashing....

Originally posted by bdfox18doe
Especially by those who have no clue (to say the least) as to what is required to make HD happen on a regular, consistent basis.

The point is simple - the avg joe is not an engineer and could care less what it takes to make HD happen...we just simply expect things to "work". Just as I don't care what happens when I place an order on Amazon.com - i just expect there to be a package at my door in 5 days or so.

Is this unreasonable? Of course!!!! But that's the beauty of being a consumer in competitive marketplace. Those who make it "work" (or as least try to be proactive and explain why things aren't working) will be rewarded.

Originally posted by bdfox18doe
The comments here prove a point here as to why there is very little participation from the broadcast community overall on AVS forum,
and especially here in Charlotte.

WBTv has done an excellent job overall with CBS HD. But, the first time there are problems the bashing starts. Especially by those who have no clue (to say the least) as to what is required to make HD happen on a regular, consistent basis. Am I defending WBTV? Yes, as I was part of
the engineering team who put WBTv-DT on air back in 1997..
While I have not spoken with them, based on what I've seen of their signal,
it's a local multiplexor problem and not a CBS reception issue. And equipment will fail, I can't wait until we have a failure and the ingrates begin the bashing....

I totally agree with Bob's comments. It is always easy to find fault but when something goes right nobody says a word. This is also why TWC does not post as people have a tendency to complain far out of proportion to actual problems. As Bob says, when WCCB goes down stand back as someone will certainly find fault. Personally, I think Charlotte is really lucky to have such great stations which have all gotten on the HD bandwagon. This is new technology and problems will occur. You should have been around when we went from B & W to Color.

Originally posted by HughScot
Personally, I think Charlotte is really lucky to have such great stations which have all gotten on the HD bandwagon.

Don't disagree...although I imagine we have alot of "keep up with Joneses" going on - which the HD viewers all benefit from. Making HD available is not some luxury feature - it's a pure business decision

As I said earlier - kudos to Fox for raising the bar - i'm sure on a macro level their quality HD has some bottom line impacts (i'm sure some accountant has figured it out) which will entice the others to get with the program, literally

Anyone else's cable box reading the wrong time? Minus 1 hour?

Originally posted by jl0810
(i'm sure some accountant has figured it out)

Yep. It's called BCBS.....:)

I was looking at another website today and read this. I guess everybody knows about this already? Just in case.


For those of you who subscribe to Time Warner Cable's High Definition DVR service, they just announced today that Scientific Atlanta will make the DVI active on those boxes in the first quarter of 2005. This will occur via an automated firmware update. Whether this means early January or late March is anyone's guess, however this is big news for HD-DVR subscribers. While component video output of HD signals is certainly presentable on these boxes, it will be nice to eliminate the digital to analogue conversion and send the signal directly to a digital display.

Please post the link where you read this.
Thanks in advance.
I wonder if they will also activate the SD output (in color).

Originally posted by dropzone7
I was looking at another website today and read this. I guess everybody knows about this already? Just in case.


For those of you who subscribe to Time Warner Cable's High Definition DVR service, they just announced today that Scientific Atlanta will make the DVI active on those boxes in the first quarter of 2005. This will occur via an automated firmware update. Whether this means early January or late March is anyone's guess, however this is big news for HD-DVR subscribers. While component video output of HD signals is certainly presentable on these boxes, it will be nice to eliminate the digital to analogue conversion and send the signal directly to a digital display.

That's good but what I'd rather hear is that our TWC is going to come out with the SA8300HD-DVR box that they are currently handing out in portions of NY, TX and FL. It has HDMI and an improved picture, etc.

Well HughScot I guess it's time to upgrade our AVR-4802's to the new AVR-5805 (SRP: $6,000) so we can switch between DVI inputs.

Now where do I get $6000...

Seriously though, even though the DVI will be active, I probably wouldn't use it just for this reason.

"Well HughScot I guess it's time to upgrade our AVR-4802's to the new AVR-5805 (SRP: $6,000) so we can switch between DVI inputs."

You can purchase a DVI digital switch for about $200 - $300.

cheers Jim

Originally posted by jim28277
[BYou can purchase a DVI digital switch for about $200 - $300.

cheers Jim [/B]

Shhhh!!!! Don't tell my wife! :D :D

I am getting ready to buy a HDTV and am currently using both a standalone Tivo and timewarner cables DVR/Cable box combo. I got TWC's DVR cause my old Tivo began acting up. To me, the only thing the TWC DVR has over my first generation tivo is digital audio (5.1 surround capability). My tivo can only record analog (Dolby pro-logic II). However, this is my second TWC DVR and it is a piece of junk. My old Tivo is more reliable than this brand new box. It skips and reboots if you have it record and watch at the same time. Forget about recording two shows at once.

So my question is, what kind of box will I be getting from TWC to record HDTV broadcasts? Scientific America? I hope the components inside their HD DVRs are better than their standard def. recorder.

Also, an HDTV signal is much better than SD, so want it be much easier to see a loss of PQ when watching HDTV signals recorded from one of these DVRs (since it is compressed even more to save disk space)? What are your thoughts on this? I was thinking of buying an HDTV that had a built in tuner so I can recieve signals over the air for shows were quality is an up-most importance (i.e. football games). How does OTA compare to TWC's cable signal?

Thanks,

Originally posted by Panzer948
I am getting ready to buy a HDTV and am currently using both a standalone Tivo and timewarner cables DVR/Cable box combo. I got TWC's DVR cause my old Tivo began acting up. To me, the only thing the TWC DVR has over my first generation tivo is digital audio (5.1 surround capability). My tivo can only record analog (Dolby pro-logic II). However, this is my second TWC DVR and it is a piece of junk. My old Tivo is more reliable than this brand new box. It skips and reboots if you have it record and watch at the same time. Forget about recording two shows at once.

So my question is, what kind of box will I be getting from TWC to record HDTV broadcasts? Scientific America? I hope the components inside their HD DVRs are better than their standard def. recorder.

Also, an HDTV signal is much better than SD, so want it be much easier to see a loss of PQ when watching HDTV signals recorded from one of these DVRs (since it is compressed even more to save disk space)? What are your thoughts on this? I was thinking of buying an HDTV that had a built in tuner so I can recieve signals over the air for shows were quality is an up-most importance (i.e. football games). How does OTA compare to TWC's cable signal?

Thanks,

If you want to record HD it is a good box. The PQ is excellent and virtually the equal of OTA and I have both so I can compare. It is a Scientific Atlanta box and it does have its issues. If you read the last ten pages or so of this thread you will get a good idea of the pros and cons. The NTSC signal is poor when viewed via the box. A new SA box will be available from TWC in the next couple of months and it is the SA8300HD-DVR. If you do a search for it you will see it is in use in parts of NY, FL and TX and people say it is an improvement over the SA8000.

Is anyone else having problems with ESPN gameplan? I'm not able to even get a signal? Oh ya, I'm using the Pioneer HD set... non HDPVR.

Edit: I'm not able to get HBOHD, SHOHD, and very bad pixalization on INHD1 and INHD2.

Originally posted by namcap
Is anyone else having problems with ESPN gameplan? I'm not able to even get a signal? Oh ya, I'm using the Pioneer HD set... non HDPVR.

Edit: I'm not able to get HBOHD, SHOHD, and very bad pixalization on INHD1 and INHD2.

No problem here - that sounds like a signal problem, and you might want to give customer service a call.

I did...one week ago! I'm having my HD box changed this Tuesday to the HDPVR. This Wed their going to look my SA Explorer 8000 PVR. Customer service calls are the worst part about TWC. I will have to wait a full week before this issue is resolved. Good Grief.

Originally posted by namcap
I did...one week ago! I'm having my HD box changed this Tuesday to the HDPVR. This Wed their going to look my SA Explorer 8000 PVR. Customer service calls are the worst part about TWC. I will have to wait a full week before this issue is resolved. Good Grief.

You could pick up the box yourself and not have to wait a week.

Originally posted by HughScot
If you want to record HD it is a good box. The PQ is excellent and virtually the equal of OTA and I have both so I can compare. It is a Scientific Atlanta box and it does have its issues. If you read the last ten pages or so of this thread you will get a good idea of the pros and cons. The NTSC signal is poor when viewed via the box. A new SA box will be available from TWC in the next couple of months and it is the SA8300HD-DVR. If you do a search for it you will see it is in use in parts of NY, FL and TX and people say it is an improvement over the SA8000.

Thanks Hugh for answering my questions. I have hope now and am looking forward to enjoying HDTV.

Originally posted by HughScot
You could pick up the box yourself and not have to wait a week.

I asked that very same question and they said they do not allow that. Would this be BS that I should not take? Are their offices open on Sunday?

Originally posted by namcap
I asked that very same question and they said they do not allow that. Would this be BS that I should not take? Are their offices open on Sunday?

It seems to vary to CSR rep, so I don't think there is a solid answer. With regards to Sunday hours, it looks like only Carolina Place is open on Sundays from 12:30-6. They do box swaps, but of course there is no way to be sure they would have 8000HD's.

Congrats CBS! Another great Carolina Panthers HD game.

No Saving Private Ryan on WSOC tonight. WSOC has joined a list of other cowardly stations and is preempting the ABC feature movie. Even though its been shown unedited twice before, WSOC is worried this time about FCC fines. Just Pitiful.

Originally posted by swamphhh
No Saving Private Ryan on WSOC tonight. WSOC has joined a list of other cowardly stations and is preempting the ABC feature movie. Even though its been shown unedited twice before, WSOC is worried this time about FCC fines. Just Pitiful.

I agree that it really is bad on the part of WSOC-TV but I don't believe it has been shown before totally unedited, but I could be wrong. WSOC is not worried about being fined. It all has to do with the strong "religious right" that exists in this area of the country. Sort of like Boston when they use to ban books. WSOC airs garbage in the form of Soap Operas which will complete your child's sex education but when something really good comes along they ban it.

Hugh Campbell

I was really looking forward to watching SPR tonight on HD.

Such a shame.

I'm very upset at their decision! I made it a point to HDPVR this while I was away this week. I hate playing politics.

Kind of ironic the station whose newscast seem to put forth the most sensationalism and "how young puppies will spell your doom" newscasts is now going conservative.

Originally posted by namcap
I asked that very same question and they said they do not allow that. Would this be BS that I should not take? Are their offices open on Sunday?

I called before and they told me that they could swap it out. I took the box up there and they said they couldn't swap it out. I just stood there with a dumb/sad look on my face, and she said "I don't even think we have anymore in stock", I continued to stand there with a dumb/sad look on my face and politely asked her if she could check to make sure, then she said "I'll check and make sure we are out of them", then she came back and gave me a new box that she said was the last one. So, just take it in to the office, be really nice, tell them someone said you could when you called, and maybe they will swap it out for you. :) Kill them with kindness...

I'm expereincing a problem with my box and I'm wondering if any other guys are having the problem. After I stop watching a recorded show my screen shows a guy on who wants to be a millionaire and then the screen freezes. It happens every time. In some cases I see a lady walking down a hall with a book. It's either one of the two screens. Are others experiencing this problem? Is there a firmware update that corrects it?

What is the HBO - East HD channel number, I don't use the set top box. My TV has the built-in tuner.

318

Hi swamphhh,

Thank you for the quick respond. I did try and it didn't work. I have TNT HD on channel 92.5, and discovery HD on 92.6. I do believe I have HBO HD, but couldn't find it.

Has anyone heard any concrete info. about when this box will be available in Charlotte? Please, anyone, let us all know if you hear anything. I really enjoy my SA 8000HD but I'm growing tired of the picture and sound breakups that occur when I'm recording one HD channel while watching another. I just don't think the processor is up to the task and I'm hoping the 8300 will fix this shortcoming.

Well, I'm brand new to the world of HDTV. I got a Sony KDF 55 with a HD tuner - I was pleased to had HD day 1 :)

I got my SA Explore 8000 yesterday - and was interested to know how many hours of HD and SD it can record realistically. I have a series 1 Tivo and know that various qualities take different amounts of space.

While this thing says "up to 40 hours" my guess is that that is not in 1080i :)

Originally posted by Darksaber
While this thing says "up to 40 hours" my guess is that that is not in 1080i :)

It will hold about 20 hours in HD.

one more question - does the unit have to be "on" in order to record? Anotherwords the green light on.....I'm coming from a Tivo that was on all the time ....

Thanks

No it does not have to be on.

I thought that the CBS game (Auburn vs. Alabama) was in HD today?

Great! The switch has been fliped and we now have HD.....

Fox Charlotte (WCCB) has a large fixed logo in the bottom right hand corner and this is the first time I have seen it. It is so intrusive as to call attention to itself constantly. It is a red box with the word Fox in white in the center and the word Charlotte below it. This has to go. It's the worst one I have seen. This is on channel 240 via TWC.

Not our doing. This logo is inserted under FOX network control, and takes the place of the FOX logo seen on the analog feed. It's been there since the splicer was placed on-line, except for sports programming.

Originally posted by bdfox18doe
Not our doing. This logo is inserted under FOX network control, and takes the place of the FOX logo seen on the analog feed. It's been there since the splicer was placed on-line, except for sports programming.

I must only watch sports on Fox then as I have not seen it until tonight. I would hate to have a set subject to burn in like a Plasma set. It really is the worst I have seen to date. Please tell Fox Network that people don't like it, as if they care. Glad it's not on sports programming.

Bob,
Can you remove it?
I assume it is under local control since it says "Charlotte" on it.
TIA

Does anyone know if the SA8300 box will have the option to change the sidebar color to black instead of grey? That sure would be nice. I can't stand those grey sidebars.

Oh and yes, that FOX logo is really annoying.


Happy Thanksgiving! :)

Originally posted by cajunlab
Bob,
Can you remove it?
I assume it is under local control since it says "Charlotte" on it.
TIA

Originally posted by bdfox18doe
Not our doing. This logo is inserted under FOX network control

Originally posted by cajunlab
Can you remove it?
I assume it is under local control since it says "Charlotte" on it.
TIA

Nope. It is inserted and removed via commands from FOX TOC in LA..:(

Then...can you request they remove it?
Please...

I feel your pain...

Originally posted by dropzone7
I was looking at another website today and read this. I guess everybody knows about this already? Just in case.


For those of you who subscribe to Time Warner Cable's High Definition DVR service, they just announced today that Scientific Atlanta will make the DVI active on those boxes in the first quarter of 2005. This will occur via an automated firmware update. Whether this means early January or late March is anyone's guess, however this is big news for HD-DVR subscribers. While component video output of HD signals is certainly presentable on these boxes, it will be nice to eliminate the digital to analogue conversion and send the signal directly to a digital display.

Others around the country are already experiencing this port being turned on by other Time Warner locations. Are the DVI ports enabled on our units today? I have heard that ..."Yes, it works with Austin Time Warner Cable with software version 1.85.8.4" How do I check the code revision on our units? (The information contained in the other threads must apply to the SARA software as it does not work on my passport unit (Hold Pause for 7 seconds, then Page+))

Bob,
Who should we write, call or email to get the logo removed?
I'd hate to just call the receptionist & hope.
Getting the info to the right person might make the difference.
At LEAST they could make it transparent or moving /dynamic to reduce burn in.
Just added plasma......now it matters.

For those who would like to see the logo changed,please PM me here with
a sane, professionally written request and I will forward it on to those who wield control of said logo.

Open Question: When do you think that we will hear anything about the addition of ESPN 2 HD to TWC Charlotte? I see that ESPN is starting to tout their Jan 6 debut throughout their website.

Does anyone know why WBTV always ends their HD football telecasts at exactly 7:00 PM on Sunday nights (switching over to 480i SD with sidebars) even though the games typically run for another half hour or so - in HD?

Apparently this is a local problem since there are no other CBS local programming areas reporting this phenomenon over on the programming forum. Or, am I the only football fan in the Charlotte area annoyed by this??

Archiguy,
You are not alone....technology along the lines of dumb timers on traffic lights......(no cars coming & it turns anyway).
INHD1 & INHD2 are down for me....anyone else?

Originally posted by archiguy
Does anyone know why WBTV always ends their HD football telecasts at exactly 7:00 PM on Sunday nights (switching over to 480i SD with sidebars) even though the games typically run for another half hour or so - in HD?

Apparently this is a local problem since there are no other CBS local programming areas reporting this phenomenon over on the programming forum. Or, am I the only football fan in the Charlotte area annoyed by this??

It drives me frigging crazy and I've written to WBTV to no avail. It's not just on Sun. night either. It's like they don't put enough dimes in the meter. I guess they have the switch on auto and whenever something runs over it's our loss. They do the same thing at 11 PM when an HD program runs over.

Hugh

There was about 11 minutes left in the game last night when WBTV flipped the switch. :(

Well, a few days ago I got a message on screen that there is a problem with my hard drive in the SA box. Just great! Everything I had recorded is gone. Not to mention I have to disaasemble my entertainment center to take the box out and go switch it for another one. Does anyone know if the Pioneer DVR is available from Charlotte, TWC yet?

I've had 3 HD-DVR's die on me in the past week. The two replacement units were refurbs and neither lasted 24 hours. Guess I'll have to insist on a new one when I take this latest one back. The first unit lasted 6 mos so, its not like I'm suffocating the things so they overheat.

INHD1 & INHD2 are still down...TW Shelby system....anyone else?

Originally posted by cajunlab
INHD1 & INHD2 are still down...TW Shelby system....anyone else?

No problem here in Uptown Charlotte.

Originally posted by HughScot
It drives me frigging crazy and I've written to WBTV to no avail. It's not just on Sun. night either. It's like they don't put enough dimes in the meter. I guess they have the switch on auto and whenever something runs over it's our loss. They do the same thing at 11 PM when an HD program runs over.

Hugh The same thing has happened to me recently on ABC /WSOC as well. "Boston Legal" and "NYPD Blue" are both switching to a really bad non-HD picture for the last minute or so. It's really ugly!:eek:

Originally posted by Bookworm
The same thing has happened to me recently on ABC /WSOC as well. "Boston Legal" and "NYPD Blue" are both switching to a really bad non-HD picture for the last minute or so. It's really ugly!:eek:

I think this is different than the WBTV problem...

This is the way it works...TV stations that do news normally have at least two control rooms, master control and studio control. Most of the day everything is controlled by master. Spots, syndicated shows, satellite feed and so on. During the news control is handed off to studio control where they switch cameras, remote feeds and taped packages.

In order for channel 9 (or 3 or 36 for that matter) to insert the live news cut in promo during that last break of the hour they have to switch control from master to the studio control room. They bring up the network feed in the studio control. If you watch closely you can see them do it.

Obviously the studio control room is SD. I guess there is so little time until the top of the hour they don't bother switching back.

As for the BTV problem, I sent an e-mail to a buddy of mine that works there. He confirmed a computer is setup to switch to SD at a pre-determined time. He was going to find out if there was anything they could do about it.

test123

Originally posted by Check123
I think this is different than the WBTV problem...
As for the BTV problem, I sent an e-mail to a buddy of mine that works there. He confirmed a computer is setup to switch to SD at a pre-determined time. He was going to find out if there was anything they could do about it.

test123

I have called and written real letters and never get any satisfaction from WBTV, they are very old fashioned over there and change is just not in their vocabulary. It makes the programming really suck but they will eventually have to eliminate the problem as it will be the only progamming in the future......several years from now.

HD reception and it's quirks are like the early days of CB radio right now.(which replaced 2 cans and a string:)).
WBTV's less than graceful switchover, FOX's master-blaster logo torch, & an old favorite the 16:9 to 4:3 flip-flop.
It will get better....

Which one of you called CBS and complained? :) I noticed they switched the football game to SD right at 7:00 (like always)... about 10 minutes later it switched back to HD. Thats a first. :D

Anyone else getting really frequent (every 15-30 seconds) audio and video breakups on ESPN Sunday Night Football tonight? I had to switch to the non-hd channel because it was driving me crazy. :( Is this a problem with bandwidth, or this 8000 HD-DVR box?

(I changed the other tuner was not on an HD channel but it didn't help)

Same here, Chief17 and it's very annoying...

Originally posted by chief17
Which one of you called CBS and complained? :) I noticed they switched the football game to SD right at 7:00 (like always)... about 10 minutes later it switched back to HD. Thats a first. :D
I noticed that too! :)

Originally posted by chief17 Anyone else getting really frequent (every 15-30 seconds) audio and video breakups on ESPN Sunday Night Football tonight? I had to switch to the non-hd channel because it was driving me crazy. Is this a problem with bandwidth, or this 8000 HD-DVR box?
Unfortunately, for me, I called and cancelled the HDTV tier on Monday not thinking about ESPN HD being included with the two INHDs and HDNETs so all I have is the SD channel, big let down in quality. :(

Has anyone checked the DVI output of the SA HD DVR box lately?

Just wondering if they might have already enabled it.

nope, but I'm curious too. Maybe I'll do it tonight.

Originally posted by chief17
Anyone else getting really frequent (every 15-30 seconds) audio and video breakups on ESPN Sunday Night Football tonight? I had to switch to the non-hd channel because it was driving me crazy. :( Is this a problem with bandwidth, or this 8000 HD-DVR box?

(I changed the other tuner was not on an HD channel but it didn't help)

Yep, I've noticed this too. ESPN-HD seems to be the most frequent, if not only, culprit. I don't notice these dropouts on my SA3250HD STB, nor on my DISH 6000 STB. Thus, I believe it to be a fault with the Explorer 8000HD. Funny how ESPN seems to be the only offender; how odd....

Notice if you change channels then change right back the lip synch delay corrects itself.
It's like changing the channel forces a re-synch, clearing up sound too.
I had a rebooting issue Sat..fine now (SA8000DVR).

Originally posted by cajunlab
Notice if you change channels then change right back the lip synch delay corrects itself.
It's like changing the channel forces a re-synch, clearing up sound too.
I had a rebooting issue Sat..fine now (SA8000DVR).

It's not a lip synch problem. ESPN digital has horrendous dropouts of audio and video at the same time.

Hugh

See the Columbia local thread. They are having a major issue with lip sync
and the hd dvr there on TWC..

Originally posted by bdfox18doe
See the Columbia local thread. They are having a major issue with lip sync
and the hd dvr there on TWC..

Just keep in mind that they are using SARA software and we are using Pioneer. I would assume this could make a difference.

Hugh

We've had FOX drop the level on the logo considerably..we'd like your feedback please..and Thanks.!

Originally posted by bdfox18doe
We've had FOX drop the level on the logo considerably..we'd like your feedback please..and Thanks.!

It still looks bad to me. The "Fox" is very large on an objectionable bright red background. It is the worst full time logo I've ever seen. It might be smaller but I can't see any real change in offensiveness.

Hugh

Originally posted by chief17
Anyone else getting really frequent (every 15-30 seconds) audio and video breakups on ESPN Sunday Night Football tonight? I had to switch to the non-hd channel because it was driving me crazy. :( Is this a problem with bandwidth, or this 8000 HD-DVR box?

(I changed the other tuner was not on an HD channel but it didn't help)

Amen, my brother!!! I've called several times, too. I hate you all are dealing with it, but I'm somewhat relieved I'm not the only one... I was beginning to think it was just me.

Thanks for sharing my pain!

Originally posted by chief17
Which one of you called CBS and complained? :) I noticed they switched the football game to SD right at 7:00 (like always)... about 10 minutes later it switched back to HD. Thats a first. :D

I hate to brag, and I'm not trying to pat myself on the back, but I called and asked them to switch it. The guy I talked to didn't seem to believe me and asked who I was. I told him "I was a viewer!" He said he'd look into it, and I figured that was his blow-off line, but lo and behold, they switched back to 16x9.

BTW, I'm now "Master Control-certified" at two of the four locals: WBTV and WCNC. I dogged the NBC6 folks a ton during the NASCAR season explaining that "I understand the race is not in High-Def, but trust me, it is in 16x9."

I'm not sure if I should be proud, or considered a loser... :D

WBTv's HD switching is controlled via the automation that runs the programming and commercials from the file server..If the event occurs outside of the normal, pre-set hours, it has to be manually changed.
I know this because The engineer who used to program the system now works for us here..

Our HD switching is tied to the analog feed, so no timer or human intervention is required. If the FOX HD feed isn't there for some reason, there is a problem in either the feed or the splicer.

"I'm not sure if I should be proud, or considered a loser... "

From the forum stand point, proud. However, most Tv stations would chose the second choice.. :D

Hey guys, just wondering if any of the Charlotte stations plan to do their local news in HD anytime soon? WRAL in Raleigh has been doing so for a while now and it is great! Even the local sports highlights are in High Def! I can't believe that Charlotte is trailing Raleigh in this area!!! Anybody got any info?

We won't be..as the return on investment is a negative number..

Originally posted by herrfish1
Hey guys, just wondering if any of the Charlotte stations plan to do their local news in HD anytime soon? WRAL in Raleigh has been doing so for a while now and it is great! Even the local sports highlights are in High Def! I can't believe that Charlotte is trailing Raleigh in this area!!! Anybody got any info?

Haven't heard that... it would be sweet though.

The audio and video dropouts on espnhd seem to be getting worse. I now get a lot of "studdering" even watching a non-hd program. I can't wait for that new box to come out.

I also had another problem with the box a few days ago... I think I "confused" it... I was recording two shows at once and tried to stop one of the recordings and change the channel. The box would not change channels at all... the little bar would pop up on the bottom of the screen and say I was on a different channel, but it wouldn't actually change channels. I even turned the box off and the picture stayed on the screen (the power light on the box was off)... wtf?? Went to bed and the next day it was fine again. :confused:

Originally posted by chief17
The audio and video dropouts on espnhd seem to be getting worse. I now get a lot of "studdering" even watching a non-hd program. I can't wait for that new box to come out.

I also had another problem with the box a few days ago... I think I "confused" it... I was recording two shows at once and tried to stop one of the recordings and change the channel. The box would not change channels at all... the little bar would pop up on the bottom of the screen and say I was on a different channel, but it wouldn't actually change channels. I even turned the box off and the picture stayed on the screen (the power light on the box was off)... wtf?? Went to bed and the next day it was fine again. :confused:

I have some of the same things happening. I get it on more than one station. A lot of freezing. The screen will freeze or go gray and not come back for several seconds if at all. Is this a sign that a new HDDVR box is needed, or is this just a bad feed?

Most likely you have problems in your cable drop..Call TWC, Dave Kruger..

Odd everything has been fine for months. The only change is the Premium RR I added last week. Hmmm maybe it's just too much. We have the phone service as well.

I just installed my Time Warner 8000HD DVR about 2 weeks ago. Although I like the HD pictures, the constant video and audio pauses irratate me. Is this the newst box? How can I bring up some diagnostics to tell me the quality of signal I'm getting?

My display is a TH-50PHD7UY.

Thanks for any help you can give!

Geoff

Last night my box would not keep up in real time. I was switching in between channels and would have to hit the live button every time. Kept going to back to the original spot I started watching. I get constant video drops. I have about 50/50 chance of watching what I change the channel to, except for espn, which hardly ever comes in.

Hamster - unfortunatly that's pretty standard with the 8000. There's talk about another receiver (8300) that is being released in other areas that should be better than the 8000, but it isn't in the Charlotte area yet.

Get used to loss of sound, video freezes, and sound and video being out of sync.

On a note from an earlier post - I tried the DVI out on the 8000 this weekend and it's still not turned on.

I also tried to call and tell them I heard the 8300 was out in Charlotte and asked if I could have it installed, but to no avail - they said it isn't here yet. :)

Thanks, that's what I thought. The audio out of sync is REALLY annoying. I also get frustrated with how long it takes to bring up a channel and surf channels.

I used to be a D* customer, but Ihate the idea of signing a commitment term. Maybe it's time to give my money to someone esle like Dish or Voom.

Anybody notice the new TWC pricing? They have eliminated the old packages and substituted packages called DIGIPiC 1000, 2000 & 4000. And they don't seem to have a 3 multiplex option like the old Digital Silver plan. My current pricing doesn't match their plans so I'm curious about when and what they will switch me to. The only good news is that they are giving you the corresponding InDemand channel for subscribed premiums. Something they should have done long ago if you ask me. Never understood why I had to pay extra to get HBO in Demand when I already give them $12/m for HBO proper.

BTW, rcase13,
How's the RR Premium? I swear they have throttled back the regular RR lately. Probably to get me to pay for the new service. And its working too as I'm about to move to that faster service.

I swear they have throttled back the regular RR lately.



wow! last night, my brother and I were just discussing that our internent connection seemed really slow as of late. He lives downtown and I live in huntersville. I cant wait for verizon to get their internet service here.

Originally posted by swamphhh
I swear they have throttled back the regular RR lately. Probably to get me to pay for the new service. And its working too as I'm about to move to that faster service.

There have been quite a few rumors that RR will increase their speeds from 3mbps to 5mbps, with a 512kbps upload speed. A couple areas (NYC, and somewhere in California) have already been upgraded. While that obviously doesn't mean that all areas will see the new speeds, I'm optimistic.

It also makes me wonder if that's why they discontinued / are discontinuing the Motorola CDLP network here...I miss my Cybersurfr Wave already, but if they bump the speeds up, I guess I will live.

I had heard the same thing, that they were bumping the speeds. But I thought it was going to be for the standard service and they would then throttle back to create a new slower 'lite" service for like $19.99. That's what I read someplace at least. But what It seems they have done is to throttle back the standard service and to now want $25 extra to get the 6mbps/512kpbs speeds. Tricky, Tricky.

Originally posted by swamphhh
I had heard the same thing, that they were bumping the speeds. But I thought it was going to be for the standard service and they would then throttle back to create a new slower 'lite" service for like $19.99. That's what I read someplace at least. But what It seems they have done is to throttle back the standard service and to now want $25 extra to get the 6mbps/512kpbs speeds. Tricky, Tricky.

They never throttled speeds...they are still 3mbps down, 384 up. If you run a speedtest, you should be pretty close to that. Many people have speculated that they don't want to create the lite tier because it would cannabolize their higher priced "regular" service.

Hamster and others...

The 8000 needs a strong signal - have TWC come out and make it work. Mine was freezing, rebooting, missing channels... when they put a booster on the line and ran a new line from the post to the house ... all problems went away.

Originally posted by Darksaber
Hamster and others...

The 8000 needs a strong signal - have TWC come out and make it work. Mine was freezing, rebooting, missing channels... when they put a booster on the line and ran a new line from the post to the house ... all problems went away.

They already came out and put a booster on mine and I am still having problems. They seem to be getting worse too. :(

Ive had 7 visits, 3 box swaps and an amp installed by TW and still have horrible problems. I get a blank screen if I try to record one channel and watch a different channel. Some days I have to reboot my box as much as 10 times.

I'm paying them >$200/month and have my phone service w/ them which eats up bandwidth on RR. You would think they would just throw in the premium RR service if you are already signed up for Digital Phone, RR, and Cable. I've noticed a decrease in sound quality if I'm running ********** while on the phone. 512 upload speed would be great for xbox live......could actually get on some 16 player servers....

My understanding was that TW did include the extra 128kbps when you purchase the VOIP service from them...too bad, it wouldn't be too difficult for them to do. I'd still consider the phone service if they dropped the price $10/month or created a package with a similar effect.

Regarding **********, try a torrent client like bittornado (sp?) that allows you to limit upload traffic, and keep it at no more than 30KB/s.

Hmmmm, interesting to read of all these reception problems. I split my cable signal 5 ways, including an HD STB and an HD DVR, and have had no problems with signal strength at all. I do not have RR, though. Perhaps that just puts too great a "strain" on the incoming signal, resulting in some of these problems?

http://www.allyourtv.com/0405season/news/november/11282004transitional.html

"A middle-level executive at Time Warner has approached several cable companies and broached the idea of restricting the ability of customers who use those company's Digital Video Recorders to record several popular Time Warner TV programs.

The term being used by the executive is"transitional fair use," and the scenerio laid out goes roughly along these lines:

Viewers would be able to record an episode with their DVR, but there would be a time limit on how long it would be available for viewing. The executive was pushing for an expiration date that coincided with the premiere of the next episode. The consensus of the cable executived was that it needed to be between 2-4 weeks. "

Originally posted by swamphhh
BTW, rcase13,
How's the RR Premium? I swear they have throttled back the regular RR lately. Probably to get me to pay for the new service. And its working too as I'm about to move to that faster service.

The higher speeds seem to be working fine. I really only wanted the upload speed though. The download is nice though! They don't lie it's 6Mbs. Only a few sites will allow this rate though. 800MB files really fly now! :)

Now if I can just get my freezing and gray screens on my HDDVR fixed! They come out Friday. Cross your fingers!

Now if I can just get my freezing and gray screens on my HDDVR fixed! They come out Friday. Cross your fingers!

good luck! let me know if they fix it.

Adelphia cable in mooresville has the 8300. I just set one up for my dad. Adelphia doesnt charge $40 for a "tech" to plug it up either.

Originally posted by mduskin
http://www.allyourtv.com/0405season/news/november/11282004transitional.html

"A middle-level executive at Time Warner has approached several cable companies and broached the idea of restricting the ability of customers who use those company's Digital Video Recorders to record several popular Time Warner TV programs.

The term being used by the executive is"transitional fair use," and the scenerio laid out goes roughly along these lines:

Viewers would be able to record an episode with their DVR, but there would be a time limit on how long it would be available for viewing. The executive was pushing for an expiration date that coincided with the premiere of the next episode. The consensus of the cable executived was that it needed to be between 2-4 weeks. "


This stinks. These people are just determined to kill DVRs. Never mind the fact that I watch more programs now than before the various DVRs I've owned. What really gets me is that this is a Time Warner initiative. I hope they don't intend this to be for TWC customers. I can understand the concern in regard to people that use machines in which the program can be removed. But with a TWC DVR, you pretty much have a closed system. I pay a lot of money to TW to regard an episode of the Sopranos. The cable fee, the DVR fee, the HBO fee. How does it hurt them to restrict the time I can watch something on their system?

Originally posted by mduskin
[BViewers would be able to record an episode with their DVR, but there would be a time limit on how long it would be available for viewing. The executive was pushing for an expiration date that coincided with the premiere of the next episode. The consensus of the cable executived was that it needed to be between 2-4 weeks. " [/B]

What on earth could they hope to gain by restricting customers' use of these devices in this manner? I mean, besides a bunch of angry customers? I can't see this going anywhere.

That's why I love my 3 standalone Tivos.......

besides, it's not really TWC pushing such nonsense, it's the greedy program syndicators..

Originally posted by bdfox18doe
That's why I love my 3 standalone Tivos.......

besides, it's not really TWC pushing such nonsense, it's the greedy program syndicators..

Unfortunately, TiVo's are not immune to such a policy...
TiVo Community Post (http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?threadid=208141)

Mine are..they don't have service..

Bob:

What's up with Fox's HD broadcast today? The audio had been intermittent, especially since the start of the 2nd half. The picture has been freezing some, but the audio problem seems much more significant. The audio is not breaking up during commercial breaks, and I've put forth the "tried and true TWC Customer Service cure-all" re-booting of the box...

Please help, and I'd prefer not to switch over to CBS until the second game.

I haven't had the tv on until now Teddy, I'll keep an eye on it..

glad it's not just me that's having audio problems. It's really annoying to have to watch the nonHD feed, heh HD looks sooo much better.

Originally posted by TeddyTV
Bob:

What's up with Fox's HD broadcast today? The audio had been intermittent, especially since the start of the 2nd half. The picture has been freezing some, but the audio problem seems much more significant. The audio is not breaking up during commercial breaks, and I've put forth the "tried and true TWC Customer Service cure-all" re-booting of the box...

Please help, and I'd prefer not to switch over to CBS until the second game.

It's not a TWC problem the audio is dropping out for seconds on both OTA and TWC but not during commercials. It is the worst I've ever experienced......video is fine but audio drops out for 5 to 10 seconds and happens several times a minute. Has been continuous for at least the last hour during the game.

Hugh

Originally posted by HughScot
It's not a TWC problem the audio is dropping out for seconds on both OTA and TWC but not during commercials. Hugh

Yeah, that's why I mentioned I'd re-booted the box. I've gotten to the point where I generally assume it's a cable issue, and go from there. The frustrating part - and I don't intend to indict anyone - is no one will ever claim culpability. The poor girl in the news room at 18 said the Master Control folks said everything was fine coming from the station, and she wanted me to call Fox in L.A., obviously that's not my responsibility and obviously everything wasn't fine. But again, I understand if that was how the signal was coming in from Pico, then there may not be anything the guys on Independence can do.

Bob, I appreciate the way you were open to everyone's suggestions regarding the Fox bug. In the future would it be possible for the station to run a crawl noting that the technical problem is on Fox LA's end, and that people are indeed working on the situation. Thus, we know it's not cable... it's not the station... and someone is indeed looking out for the viewer.

Sign me curious, but not currently bitter... Thanks.

Sorry there were problems, both we and FOX strive to stay on top of such things, unlike many stations..
Most of the time it is cable,unfortunately, but not always. Not that the CSR's
would know or admit to if it were.

1) You should not have been told to call LA..and Our MCO's don't monitor the HD audio, only the video due to delay issues. I'll address that with news..

2) No, we can't run crawls on the hd..it would have to go on the analog as
well and that won't do. We don't have the ability to run crawls on the HD
only..it's a $$$ issue..

3) Usually I watch quite a bit..and catch these things..just not today..and it was a national problem coming from LA..

Thanks Bob, I'm very appreciative of your participation in the forum and for your candor in answering questions!

C'mon everybody, group hug!

Geez, sorry for killing the thread... I was only kidding about the group hug!

As John Cleese would say: "And now, for something completely different."

Any word from Time Weenie regarding ESPN2-HD? It took long enough just to get ESPN-HD, but I'm hoping maybe both entities were forward thinking and included ESPN's next HD venture into the deal they made back in September.

Originally posted by TeddyTV
Any word from Time Weenie ..

He-He..that's agood one I hadn't heard..(Sorry there Mr. Krueger Sir..)
:D

The only thing I care about is the studdering sound and video. I don't want anymore channels yet. That just means I'd have more channels to be upset about. I want to know when they're replacing the 8000 with the 8300 here in Chlt..

I have been having problems with the CBS HD channel since last Saturday. Most of the time the picture & sound are breaking up. It happens on all 3 of the CBS digital channels. I was wondering if other folks were also having this problem or if its a problem with my SA8000HD and or reception?

I'm seriously thinking of cancelling my HD service simply because all of the problems are not worth the price they are charging. In my opinion, picture quality and sound should be flawless when your paying what I do. Time Warner is my biggest bill every month and it's getting more and more difficult to justify it to the wife when I'm constantly having to reboot the box, replace the box or unplug the box. It's so hot and cold, when it's good it's great and when it's bad it's terrible. I realize this technology is still kind of in it's infancy so I have been patient but my patience is fading and I don't feel that the quality is as it should be.

Originally posted by e137811
I have been having problems with the CBS HD channel since last Saturday. Most of the time the picture & sound are breaking up. It happens on all 3 of the CBS digital channels. I was wondering if other folks were also having this problem or if its a problem with my SA8000HD and or reception?

I had the same problem with just the three CBS/WBTV channels a few weeks back. Eventually, one of the main Tech guys looked into it, and said there was a "bad node" (sp.?) between my neighborhood and the head end. Specifically it was "the 114 node" here in Concord.

I remember because I liked using "the 114 node" in conversation with every other TWC person I came in contact with, I figured it'd catch 'em off-guard if I spoke a little of their language. :D

Originally posted by dropzone7
I'm seriously thinking of cancelling my HD service simply because all of the problems are not worth the price they are charging. In my opinion, picture quality and sound should be flawless when your paying what I do. Time Warner is my biggest bill every month and it's getting more and more difficult to justify it to the wife when I'm constantly having to reboot the box, replace the box or unplug the box. It's so hot and cold, when it's good it's great and when it's bad it's terrible. I realize this technology is still kind of in it's infancy so I have been patient but my patience is fading and I don't feel that the quality is as it should be.

And the question you are asking?

Originally posted by e137811
I have been having problems with the CBS HD channel since last Saturday. Most of the time the picture & sound are breaking up. It happens on all 3 of the CBS digital channels. I was wondering if other folks were also having this problem or if its a problem with my SA8000HD and or reception?

I haven't noticed any problems, but I don't think I've watched much CBS lately either (repeats). I did watch The Amazing Race Tuesday on channel 227 (digital SD) with the SA 8000HD and saw no problems.

Originally posted by sbirnie
The only thing I care about is the studdering sound and video. I don't want anymore channels yet. That just means I'd have more channels to be upset about. I want to know when they're replacing the 8000 with the 8300 here in Chlt..

I'm not holding my breath...

Seriously, I have read most of the 8300HD threads in the HDTV Recorders forum, and I don't think I have seen any mention of an 8300HD running Passport software. I hope I just missed such a post and am mistaken, but...

Originally posted by doppler1
I'm not holding my breath...

Seriously, I have read most of the 8300HD threads in the HDTV Recorders forum, and I don't think I have seen any mention of an 8300HD running Passport software. I hope I just missed such a post and am mistaken, but...

Leave it to my Cabarrus County education, but you've lost me here. Is it the SA-8000 box that has issues, or the Passport software? I'll give TWC some latitude regarding the 8000 box. As someone else posted earlier, we were the folks begging, pleading and demanding HD-DVR's, and this (the SA-8000) is a first generation HD-DVR box, right? So will the next generation box be the deal or is updated software that will rid us of pixelization, freezing and lack of cold beer? Oh wait, a trip to Food Lion will take care of a lack of cold beer, but I digress...

As Homer would say:

mmmmm....Beer!:D

Originally posted by TeddyTV
Leave it to my Cabarrus County education, but you've lost me here. Is it the SA-8000 box that has issues, or the Passport software? I'll give TWC some latitude regarding the 8000 box. As someone else posted earlier, we were the folks begging, pleading and demanding HD-DVR's, and this (the SA-8000) is a first generation HD-DVR box, right? So will the next generation box be the deal or is updated software that will rid us of pixelization, freezing and lack of cold beer? Oh wait, a trip to Food Lion will take care of a lack of cold beer, but I digress...
Below is my very basic understanding of cable networks/software platforms...feel free to correct anything that is inaccurate.

As you are probably aware, there are many different software platforms that the cable network can be based on. I believe that the various TWC divisions use either Pioneer or Scientific Atlanta. Charlotte uses a Pioneer based cable system, and therefore, all of the cable boxes will run Pioneer Passport, and specifically Passport Echo for the DVR's. Syracuse, NY, for example, runs the Scientific Atlanta network, and their cable boxes will run SARA (Scientific Atlanta Resident Application, if i am not mistaken).

Pioneer then takes their Passport software and programs it to run on whatever hardware equipment that the cable companies so desire (I believe Passport will run on various Pace, Motorola, Scientific Atlanta, and Pioneer hardware), and I assume that Scientific Atlanta does the same or similar with SARA.

Pioneer no longer manufactures cable boxes (I believe they plan(ed) on focusing on CableCard), and TWC now generally buy's cable boxes from Scientific Atlanta. Since SA is the manufacturer of the hardware, it is reasonable to assume that they will have SARA software completed well before Pioneer is able to get Passport implemented onto the new hardware platform.

Once TWC gets their hands on a new piece of hardware, take for instance the 8300HD running SARA software, they will test it in a small number of markets before release. The SARA 8300HD was tested in Syracuse, NY, and has since trickled its way into other divisions, but it could take a long time even for all of the other SA divisions to receive the 8300HD's. Once (if?) TWC gets a hold of Passport Echo for the 8300HD, it will probably go through a similar process, and it may take a long time for Charlotte to see the 8300HD unless we are a test city, which is why it is important to note that nobody has reported seeing an 8300HD running Passport, if that is in fact true.

Now to answer the "real" question...is it the hardware or the software that is causing the issues, and the answer is: I don't know - probably a little of both. Some issues are related to software, others to hardware. The 8300HD offers significant benefits over the 8000HD, such as a faster processor and more memory, which helps speed up the user interface. In addition, the SARA 8300HD has a [mostly] working HDMI port. The SARA 8300HD also has the component and SD analog outs working at the same time, like the non-DVR Pioneer Voyager box Charlotte uses does. There is also reportedly an issue with the 8000HD running Passport (I'm not sure if it is an issue with the SARA version) where the 8000HD only outputs ~870 resolvable lines of a 1080i program, which may help explain sub-par HD quality of the 8000HD. How this was discovered or measured, I don't know. I just know that it has been stated in threads in the HDTV Recorders section and that the HD output of the 8000HD appears to me to be inferior to that of the Pioneer Voyager.

Overall, I am quite pleased with the 8000HD and since the last software upgrade, I haven't had any major issues...plus the ability to record in HD causes me to forgive what few problems due arise. It is possible that a software update could help with some of the freezing, etc, but a good portion of that is also probably related to signal problems. There are also other features that could come out of a software upgrade, such as the search by title function. That said, the minute that a newer, supposedly better HD-DVR is released in Charlotte, I am sure I'll want it, as it's always best to have the latest and "greatest." :)

"...........and it may take a long time for Charlotte to see the 8300HD unless we are a test city, "

I don't think it will be a "long time" before they roll out the 8300 in the Charlotte area.

Hugh

i hooked up an 8300 for my dad. he lives 10 miles up the road from me. Wish I had adelphia:(

Originally posted by HughScot
And the question you are asking?

No question, just an observation unless you can tell me when the service will improve. I got an email from a lady at Time Warner in South Carolina offering to have someone come out and check the line coming into the house. Very nice but its' been done. I think the problem is in the box and or the software or programming of the box.

Originally posted by HughScot
I don't think it will be a "long time" before they roll out the 8300 in the Charlotte area.

Well, that's good to hear -- as you usually know more than the rest of us. :)
I was just basing that assumption on the fact that I have yet to hear of a Passport 8300HD in use.

I don't think it will be a "long time" before they roll out the 8300 in the Charlotte area.

If the rumors are true, some of the 8300HDs have already been sighted in the Charlotte area, at TWC's secret test location known as "node 114"

Just hooked up the 8300HD last night, picture looks sharper and am happy with the new smaller time on the front of the box and some new DVR features. Still ahte the grey bars.

Since my 8000 had to be replaced 3 times and the DVR hardly ever worked, im crossing my fingers that this one will out last the new year.

Is it just me, or is 18-1 down right now?

CPanther95,

It's not just you. I can't get anything on 18-1 either.

I guess that's good news - keeps me off the roof on Christmas Eve anyway. ;)

Just hope it's fixed for the game today.

I'm receiving 18-1 now.

splicer buuurrrrrppppp....It's been gassy lately..

Why am I getting the OLN on ESPN-HD instead of the college bowl games? Is it just me or is this happening to anyone else? :(

Originally posted by TV Zombie
Just hooked up the 8300HD last night, picture looks sharper and am happy with the new smaller time on the front of the box and some new DVR features. Still ahte the grey bars.


Welcome Zombie,

If you don't mind me asking, are you talking about running the 8300HD on Time-Warner in Charlotte? (Which is the topic you posted in) So far nobody has confirmed an 8300 running on a Pioneer system. If you are using it, it would be welcome news to many people here. Also, it raises the question as to how others get in on the fun.

--Tzvi

Also, it raises the question as to how others get in on the fun.


^ My question exactly. :D Is TW-Charlotte now distributing these? If so, will they allow you to pick one up or do you have to pay them $40 to come out and "install" it? I am anxious to get rid of this 8000 since I have already had 2 die on me in the few months they have been out.

I am pretty dissappointed to hear that the 8300 still has the grey sidebars. I find them very bright/distracting/annoying. I wouldn't think it would be that hard to add an option in the menu to change them to black. Hopefully this can (and will) be added in a future software upgrade.

I just want a box that works

Originally posted by chief17
I am pretty dissappointed to hear that the 8300 still has the grey sidebars. I find them very bright/distracting/annoying. I wouldn't think it would be that hard to add an option in the menu to change them to black. Hopefully this can (and will) be added in a future software upgrade.

Lemme ask you a question: Can you set your cable box to "4:3 stretch" but leave your TV set in the "Normal" mode. Normal being the operative term here, as in what's "normal" to me might seem odd, strange and even outlandish to others...

For example, when my Sony is set to "Normal" mode, it displays 16:9 signals in 16:9, and displays 4:3 signals in 4:3 with black sidebars. If I change the setting on my TV to "Fill" then, of course, a 4:3 signal is stretched to fill the screen. (I also have options to "Zoom" and "Wide Zoom," but have never used those.)

When my cable box is set to "4:3 Stretch" and the TV is in "Normal" mode, I have 4:3 signals in 4:3 with black sidebars. Maybe this helps, or maybe its just how my TV is set up.

Originally posted by TeddyTV
Lemme ask you a question: Can you set your cable box to "4:3 stretch" but leave your TV set in the "Normal" mode. Normal being the operative term here, as in what's "normal" to me might seem odd, strange and even outlandish to others...

For example, when my Sony is set to "Normal" mode, it displays 16:9 signals in 16:9, and displays 4:3 signals in 4:3 with black sidebars. If I change the setting on my TV to "Fill" then, of course, a 4:3 signal is stretched to fill the screen. (I also have options to "Zoom" and "Wide Zoom," but have never used those.)

When my cable box is set to "4:3 Stretch" and the TV is in "Normal" mode, I have 4:3 signals in 4:3 with black sidebars. Maybe this helps, or maybe its just how my TV is set up.

I'm not sure I completley follow that, but thanks for the suggestion... I will try it tonight. I have a Sony (42WE610) as well so maybe that will work.

IT WORKS!! Thanks for the tip Teddy... Anyone wanting to get rid of those grey bars should give this a shot. :D

The downside is that I had to enable all output formats from the box (480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i) to get it to work. This really seems to cause problems with the box when changing between analog 4:3 channels and HD 16:9 channels. It now takes about 5 seconds or so for the box to change (lots of flickering on the screen during this time). And sometimes it changes the aspect ratio of 16:9 channels... I switched to ESPNHD last night and it was stretching the picture! The HD pillar bars that are normally on the sides (of ESPNHD) were stretched off the screen... not visible at all. If you change channels and then go back, it displays fine. I tried this several times and it did the same thing every time.

This morning I turned it on and there were grey bars on the top and bottom... compressing the image vertically. :? I changed channels and the bars went away.

Bottom line is this box is a piece of sh1t. I expect a little more for the $135/month (~$1620/year!) I am paying. I don't want to have them bring me another one though... it will probably die within a month (like the first two I had).

Originally posted by chief17
IT WORKS!! Thanks for the tip Teddy... Anyone wanting to get rid of those grey bars should give this a shot. :D

The downside is that I had to enable all output formats from the box (480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i) to get it to work. This really seems to cause problems with the box when changing between analog 4:3 channels and HD 16:9 channels. It now takes about 5 seconds or so for the box to change (lots of flickering on the screen during this time).

Glad it worked for you, I haven't experimented too much with changing the output formats, only in terms of trying to compare PQ. I've never considered it as a reason for why changing channels takes so long, I thought that had more to do with the DVR, but I'm sure you're right. So I learned something as well. My trigger finger has slowed ever since I got the HD-DVR, but I can live with that.

And sometimes it changes the aspect ratio of 16:9 channels... I switched to ESPNHD last night and it was stretching the picture! The HD pillar bars that are normally on the sides (of ESPNHD) were stretched off the screen... not visible at all. If you change channels and then go back, it displays fine. I tried this several times and it did the same thing every time. This morning I turned it on and there were grey bars on the top and bottom... compressing the image vertically. :? I changed channels and the bars went away.[/B]

I have noticed this scenario with ESPN-HD, and have just manually gone to the "Aspect Ratio" under Advanced Settings, and reset it to display 16:9 correctly. It's like you have to remind the box to keep up...

As for the grey bars on the top and bottom, I've never seen that. I might call TWC and demand they update my box immediately!!!:D

Does anyone know if the DVI ort on the 8000HD in the CLT area is workin yet?

Hey TZvi,
Sorry for the delay in responding. The 8300HD dvr is not pioneer its still SA with passport software. I picked mine up from TW on Thursday of last week. (been out of town for the holidays since posting) so I ahvent been able to play with the box. New to all the HD stuff so forgive if I seem not up on the lingo.

A friend of mine tipped me off that they were available from TW.

Ill ahve more to say once I get to actually test the programs that I recorded while gone, and watch it, but its still working after a week, so Yeah for me. :)

Can anyone explain why all new Tv's boxes and DVD players are being made in silver? Just curious.

Originally posted by TV Zombie
Hey TZvi,
Sorry for the delay in responding. The 8300HD dvr is not pioneer its still SA with passport software. I picked mine up from TW on Thursday of last week. (been out of town for the holidays since posting) so I ahvent been able to play with the box. New to all the HD stuff so forgive if I seem not up on the lingo.

A friend of mine tipped me off that they were available from TW.

Ill ahve more to say once I get to actually test the programs that I recorded while gone, and watch it, but its still working after a week, so Yeah for me. :)

Can anyone explain why all new Tv's boxes and DVD players are being made in silver? Just curious.

What is your location? I don't believe you are in the Charlotte area but then I could be wrong.

Hugh

Well, I got an 8300HD box yesterday and first impressions are good. I believe the picture is sharper than my 8000HD was. Also, the first thing I noticed is that I can cycle through channels faster now. The old box would stutter and not display the channel number like it was trying to catch up to me if I held the button down. I'm not sure what would have changed there because I kept the same remote I had. I guess the software makes a difference. Wow, the box is much smaller than the 8000HD which was a monster! I like the smaller time display and the signal type display in the same area as the time display (1080i, 720p, etc.) It will take a few days to evaluate for sure, I have some scheduled recordings so we shall see how they turn out. Again, first impressions are a clearer, crisper picture.

I am in Charlotte.

Agree with Dropzone, love the smaller box, just hate that its silver but thats a minor thing. As i stated in my first post, the picture is clearer for me as well.

So far so good.

Can we just go to a TWC location to swap the 8000HD for the 8300HD?

I also heard the new box was out a couple of weeks ago. " UPDATE: I just called TWC and asked if they would be installing the 8300, they stated that is the box they are now installing. So good news for all."

I am getting ready to pickup my 1st HDTV this weekend and had a question. My unit will have a built in tuner, so since TWC can't install my HD box till next wednesday, I was thinking of picking up an indoor HDTV antenna to tie me over and for use as a backup if the cable ever goes out, etc. I live near Mt. Island Lake off Hwy 16 (just north of the city limits in Meck County), what antenna would you guys recommend I get to pull in all the local Charlotte stations broadcasting in HD.

Thanks

That's what I did. I called the main customer service number and asked if it was released yet. First the lady told me that only the techs have these right now. I told her that I did not have time to wait for a person that might not show up. I told her to look at my account and she saw all the missed appointments by their techs. She put me on hold for a few minutes and then came back on the line. She noted on my account that I would be coming by the Arrowood office to pick up a box. I got there, gave them my name, they looked up the note and gave me the box. No problem. Also, there was a stack about 7' tall of these and other boxes behind the counter. Just make sure you call before showing up. That way your covered. I hooked it up when I got home and of course had to call the customer service number so they could do thier thing to activate. Presto! Clearer HD picture with DVR.

Allright, that was pretty darn easy! Called customer service, and he basically told me that as long as the exchange office has the box in stock, they will swap it. Went to Eastland Promenade location on Albemarle road, and they had it (don't know how many - I didn't see any of them around), and gave me the box without any issues. As far as I know, customer service didn't note my account or anything.

As far as the box goes, it is slightly smaller, has the normal component and composite outs, HDMI, SATA, and 2 Firewire ports. As others have noted, it is gray, but I guess I can live with that.

More later after I get a chance to play with it.

Are all the video outputs enabled this time? thanks

Now that I had an hour or two to play with it, I can definitely say that the 8300HD is superior to the 8000HD.

To answer dvdguru's question regarding the outputs, I don't know. I don't have an HDMI to DVI converter, so I haven't had and won't have a chance to try until I order the converter. Similarly, I don't have any devices that use the Firewire outputs, so I haven't tried that either.

The front display of the 8300HD is much improved, showing information regarding output format (480i/p, 720p, or 1080i), and the word record when recording, as well as HDTV for HDTV material (of course). This should help the HDTV newcomers avoid some of the confusion over whether or not a program is in HD, so long as they are using the correct inputs. In addition, the clock is much smaller than the almost annoyingly large clock on the 8000HD.
http://www.markssite.com/AVS/8300HD_Front.JPG

In addition, when you select output formats 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, it will actually output at the source resolution, whereas if you selected 480i and anything else, it would always output at the anything else. The only exception to this rule is the digital channels, which seen to always output at 480p for some reason. Regardless of all that, it hardly matters, as the SD output, and especially the analog SD, still looks pretty horrible through the component outs. The good news, however, is that the component and SD outputs are active at the same time, similar to how the Pioneer box worked, and the PQ through the composite is fairly decent.

Along similar lines, the HD output of the 8300HD is much improved over that of the 8000HD, providing noticeably sharper images on the HD channels--at least for 1080i programming.

Finally, channel changes are much faster on the 8300HD compared to the 8000HD, and the Passport included on the 8300HD provides the new search function in the guide, making it much easier to find a show that you would like to record.
http://www.markssite.com/AVS/8300HD_Search.JPG
(sorry about the img quality, I just used a digital camera)

Other than those few things, the 8300HD seems to operate exactly the same as the 8000HD.

And to add to the other nice things said about the 8300HD, in playing with my new one, which I also received at the Arrowood Office, after calling the main TWC-Charlotte phone number to verify that it was availble, I found it is much easier to archive shows to a VCR. Just record what your watching though the box whether it's live or DVRed.

So far I'm loving the ease of use and better picture!:D

Ok, just got mine on Albamarle Road. I don't have much time to play with it right now before dinner but here's a few things. The composite output is working :) So is the HDMI output according to phil at TWC. The channel changes are VERY quick now and no sound droputs so far. This box looks to be a winner so far compared to the 8000HD. Fingers crossed :) I'll mess with it some more after coming back from dinner...

Can anyone compare the SA 8300 with the Pioneer box on SD and HD picture quality. I am currently using the DVI port on the Pioneer and am pretty pleased with the PQ. I don't want to take a step back in picture quality but the ability to record shows would be nice. Thanks!

Can anyone who currently has the 8300 confirm that you can still get to a diagnostic screen showing disk spaced used and disk space remaining?

On the 8000 this is available by holding down a couple of buttons on the front of the box and from then on (until the box is next turned off) tuning to channel 611. This feature is extremely important.

archiguy: Yes, you can...same way, but the buttons are in a different place.

The PIP feature also works much better than on the 8000HD too. It was slow and stuttering on that box but is pretty quick so far on this one.

Wow. I just called about making an exchange, and the tech said that there is a connector that will allow you to add a hard disk (USB or Firewire?) to expand your storage....

While that would be great.... I can't believe that that is really true?

It's neither USB nor Firewire, its SATA (Serial ATA). Did the tech insinuate that that particular feature is currently active?

Just picked up my new HDTV and TWC is coming Wednesday with my new 8300 box. I want to get the cables in advance. Can a new owner (renter, lol) of the 8300 tell me for sure that the HDMI connection is working. If so, are you pleased with the PQ or component is just as good. I don't mind getting component as I will use them for my DVD player anyway, just don't want to spend the $$ on HDMI if not crucial.

Also, if I use HDMI for video signal, can I still connect a digital audio connection from the 8300 to my AV receiver, or are these disabled if HDMI is used. I don't want to use TV speakers for audio

Also, can any old indoor HD antenna work to receive over the air broadcasts if you live in Meck. Co.

Thanks

For optimum results, you need an external antenna. It may work ok with an indoor, but you'd be better off with one in the attic or out on the roof.

I'm using the HDMI output and it's very clear, sharp, etc so I'm sticking with that for the cable box and my 59avi dvd player. BUT, there's the "handshake problem" showing up. From what I've read in the hd recording forum there's supposed to be an update that can fix this issue. Hopefully TWC reads this and sets up the update as the problem is annoying.

Other than that this box is leaps and bounds better than the older boxes. PIP that WORKS, composite output WORKS, Hdmi output WORKS, faster channel changing, etc etc. If the handshake issue is dealt with I'll be a happy camper.

Thanks, but whats this "handshake problem"?

also,
Since you are using HDMI, which I know carries audio. Does the 8300 also output audio on a separate digital connection. I would like to hook that up directly to my AV receiver.

Originally posted by doppler1
It's neither USB nor Firewire, its SATA (Serial ATA). Did the tech insinuate that that particular feature is currently active?

I was told that the add-on hard drive storage will be via the IEEE 1394 connector (firewire) as darksaber stated. And it's not currently active, but it's coming soon (and no, I don't know exactly when).

What will be interesting is whether they will activate the firewire ports for dumping recorded content to D-VHS for archiving. Firewire is active and working (after a fashion - nothing flagged "copy freely" [HD network locals] is able to be copied) with the SA3250HD now.

I'm using HDMI to the TV and Digital audio (coax) to the a/v receiver. There is also an optical audio output on the box. Can't tell a huge difference between the HDMI and component - will do some further analysis during the football game tonight. Haven't noticed this "handshake" issue yet.

Big improvement over the 8000.

I'm VERY interested in the SATA connection. Does anyone know for sure if it is active?

Originally posted by archiguy
I was told that the add-on hard drive storage will be via the IEEE 1394 connector (firewire) as darksaber stated. And it's not currently active, but it's coming soon (and no, I don't know exactly when).

What will be interesting is whether they will activate the firewire ports for dumping recorded content to D-VHS for archiving. Firewire is active and working (after a fashion - nothing flagged "copy freely" [HD network locals] is able to be copied) with the SA3250HD now.

Either way, same net result :)

All of the Scientific Atlanta literature says that the SATA port is for external expansion (I know, I know, we are running Passport, but why not use SATA if it's available?). Has anyone confirmed that the Firewire to D-VHS is/is not currently active on the 8300HD?

Originally posted by AnthonyM
Can anyone compare the SA 8300 with the Pioneer box on SD and HD picture quality. I am currently using the DVI port on the Pioneer and am pretty pleased with the PQ. I don't want to take a step back in picture quality but the ability to record shows would be nice. Thanks!

Any feedback?

Originally posted by AnthonyM
Any feedback?

It's been about six months since I've had the Pioneer Voyager box, so it's really hard to say. The other consideration is that I've never used either the Voyager or the 8300HD with DVI/HDMI, so anything I say won't necessarily be a fair comparison.

What I can tell you is that the HD PQ of the 8300HD is far superior to that of the 8000HD. Whether the 8300HD PQ rivals that of the Voyager, it's hard for me to say because of the 6 months, but I think so (but you have to keep in mind that the pretty bad PQ of the 8000HD may have lowered my standards).

Got the 8300 yesterday. Picture quality doesnt seem as good (component hookup) but at least I can actually watch my TV without it rebooting, locking up or no picture at all. Im satisfied for now.

Originally posted by Panzer948
Thanks, but whats this "handshake problem"?

I missed this one, too. Can someone explain?

Originally posted by Davew0670
Got the 8300 yesterday. Picture quality doesnt seem as good (component hookup) but at least I can actually watch my TV without it rebooting, locking up or no picture at all. Im satisfied for now.

That's strange. I was using the 8000 box before and I see a noticeable improvement with the 8300. I also use component connections. Not to state the obvious but have you checked out your cables and also the line coming into the house? I had a bad line outside that was causing me problems a few years back. Or maybe you got a bad box. I would not trade my 8300 box for the 8000. This is close to the picture quality I was getting with my old non-DVR Pioneer box.

maybe its my eyes. i'm going to go back and check my connections today. I thought the hd channels looked a little grainier with the 8300. Not bad enough to go back to the 8000...EVER. I'll never have an 8000 in my possesion again. FYI..I had to go the albemarle rd location to pick up the box. Carolina place and morehead are both out.

Has anyone Meck County resident had any sucsess with a simple $40 to $50 indoor amplified antenna to receive HDTV signals. Was thinking of picking up one today to back up my cable connection. I live near Mt. Island Lake.

Thanks