So, I'm still wondering why my 8300hd is randomly recording incompletely? As in, 37min of a 1hr show, or 13 mins or 43mins.. I thought it was space at first, I do have a WD DVR Expander attached. I have had the short rec issue with 95%, 80% and even at 70% full. Last night it rec'd Idol and House fine then 37mins of Fringe, and then the Fox News as programmed. Its not like it gets full-ish and cuts short everything, it literally just seems to randomly stop recording on a whim.

I have defragged and reboot several times, to no avail. Anyone had this issue and found an answer?

ThanksThis has been reported in the past and I think it was a problem associated with the FOX network signal. If it only happens on the FOX network, replacing the DVR probbly will not fix the problem. I don't know if there was a fix for the problem.

Yeah, my plan is to get a Tivo, if I ever finish watching the 100 shows on there. That's the catch, do i wave goodbye to them and delete them or just stick it out til it either dies, or I 'catch up'...

You could always get an inexpensive DVD burner and some RW disks.

I bought an open box Toshiba from BB.com for about $40......

Yeah, when I've exchanged units at my cableco, they just set it in a cabinet with a bunch of others, no tagging.

If I wanted more space, I think I'd go this route rather than the external drive which from reading that thread seems problematical.

I have a 500G HDD hooked up by SATA port. From time to time it won't play back. It continues to record fine, but it won't play back. I learned long ago that by unplugging the power cord from the back, wait 20 seconds and plug it back in, eveything will work fine again for a few more months.

Not sure why it happens, but the fix is quick. Maybe it's the SARA updates?

Brock

I have a 500G HDD hooked up by SATA port. From time to time it won't play back. It continues to record fine, but it won't play back. I learned long ago that by unplugging the power cord from the back, wait 20 seconds and plug it back in, eveything will work fine again for a few more months.

Not sure why it happens, but the fix is quick. Maybe it's the SARA updates?

BrockOurs does the same but all we have to do is start playback of a different program, then switch back to the one we wanted to watch in the first place. No unplugging/plugging needed!

Ours does the same but all we have to do is start playback of a different program, then switch back to the one we wanted to watch in the first place. No unplugging/plugging needed!

That happens from time to time even without an external drive.

That's the plan I'm thinking about. When the 8300 goes, I'm thinking about getting a TIVO. I suppose you could get a TIVO now, do all your recording on it, and concurrently watch what's on the 8300 until it runs dry.
Not a bad idea, I could always add the external to the TIVO after I clear it out from the DVR shows.

This has been reported in the past and I think it was a problem associated with the FOX network signal. If it only happens on the FOX network, replacing the DVR probbly will not fix the problem. I don't know if there was a fix for the problem.
It seems to be *mostly* FOX, but it has done it on other networks also.

You could always get an inexpensive DVD burner and some RW disks.

I bought an open box Toshiba from BB.com for about $40......

But then I'm downsampling to SD... If I was gonna do something like that, I'd just download the 720p torrents off the web. Thanks for the input tho.

I am confused, I thought I understood how SARA handled three way conflicts, but when I looked at this Thursday's schedule I realized I didn't. Last week, there were no conflicts. I have CSI, Grey's Anatomy, Southland, Harper's Island, and Private Practice scheduled to record using "All Episodes, first run" on 3 different DVRs. For the past few weeks, Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice have been repeats so there were no conflicts, but this week all the shows are new which creates a three way conflict. CSI is 61 minutes long and Grey's Anatomy is 62 minutes long. On 2 DVRs, CSI and Harper's Island on CBS (channel 11) are not scheduled to record and there are no placeholders for those two shows, but on the other DVR, Southland on NBC (channel 12) is not scheduled to record but there is a placeholder for Southland for Thursday April 30. I expected the DVRs to handle the three way conflict the same and expected placeholders for the shows that are not going to record. Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice are on ABC (channel 13).
I don't understand all the details, either.

SARA 1.89.x.x, also does not delete the scheduled recording if it is a weekly recording. There is a placeholder for the next week so it does the same thing as SARA 1.91.x.x. It looks like only a daily recording that conflicts has its series of scheduled recordings deleted. For weekly recordings, a new placeholder for the following week is created as soon as the show starts to record. After midnight, the previous day schedule is deleted and the day schedule for next week is added. This new day schedule is later updated with the shows to be recorded highlighted. I think it is during this process it determine new conflicts and decides how to handle them. If there is a conflict, and the show that it decides to NOT record has a placeholder, it extends the placeholder by a week instead of converting it to an actual scheduled recording. More testing needs to be done to verify this.

SARA needs a way to tell it what shows to record when there are conflicts.

I have a weird issue and this is my second box and it's doing the same thing. I have an external hard drive hooked up to my box and it works fine, no skips at all. Once in a while, I won't be able to access my recordings on my external. A reset fixes this.

But I also get weird red and blue flashing where everything on my screen will flash red, go normal, then go blue, back to normal, etc. Is this just another defective box or does someone know what this could be? Resetting the box fixes this also, but it is happening more frequently.

Thanks in advance.

Not a bad idea, I could always add the external to the TIVO after I clear it out from the DVR shows.


It seems to be *mostly* FOX, but it has done it on other networks also.

I have had the same problems with Fox shows. When recording Terminator and Doll House back to back, it seems to miss recording either one. One week it's one, the next week could be the other.:confused: It does set a placeholder for the next week though. Go figure.:mad:

I finally resorted to recording one of them on the Seattle time shift channel 3 hours later the same night. Not what I want, but I guess it works for now. Cable companies are such dinosaurs!:D

Brock

1.89.xx - losing captions repeatedly and the only solution is a box reboot (the fact that I can do these is one of two reasons I had a box swapped out!)

What is wrong? Do I need to write the developers?

Also, recently, I got a new box and saw OLD software...1.65.xx.xx I think! The guide was slightly different, and that's how I knew! Cox didn't even know how to handle that one. Of course, I'm the only one between me and Cox that can get into SARA's diagnostic mode, too.

I'm hoping someone here can help.

I was a comcast customer for many years using an 8300HD with an external drive. Never had a problem. I moved and the cable provider is now cablevision. I plugged my drive into the new cablevision 8300hd and I did not get any message regarding reformating the drive. The picture just glitched a little. I rebooted the 8300 hd and some type of count down started and after it was done the 8300 hd came back online. However, I dont know if the drive was reformated or even recognized. How can I test to see if the drive is working? If not, is there a manual way to initiate the reformatting of the external drive?

I'm hoping someone here can help.

I was a comcast customer for many years using an 8300HD with an external drive. Never had a problem. I moved and the cable provider is now cablevision. I plugged my drive into the new cablevision 8300hd and I did not get any message regarding reformating the drive. The picture just glitched a little. I rebooted the 8300 hd and some type of count down started and after it was done the 8300 hd came back online. However, I dont know if the drive was reformated or even recognized. How can I test to see if the drive is working? If not, is there a manual way to initiate the reformatting of the external drive?
Don't have a specific answer, but there is a lot of info in the First Post you might want to look through, especially for reformatting info.

Don't have a specific answer, but there is a lot of info in the First Post you might want to look through, especially for reformatting info.


I dont see an answer in there. Nothing on what the countdown means or how to force a reformat of the external drive.

Why the dolby digital is so quiet on this cable box even when set to WIDE, and connected to a optical cable to a 5.1 reciever.

I'm hoping someone here can help.

I was a comcast customer for many years using an 8300HD with an external drive. Never had a problem. I moved and the cable provider is now cablevision. I plugged my drive into the new cablevision 8300hd and I did not get any message regarding reformating the drive. The picture just glitched a little. I rebooted the 8300 hd and some type of count down started and after it was done the 8300 hd came back online. However, I dont know if the drive was reformated or even recognized. How can I test to see if the drive is working? If not, is there a manual way to initiate the reformatting of the external drive?You may want to post in the "8300HD and External SATA - It Works!!" thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=5277957#post5277957

Also, you may want to post in your local Cablevision thread and make sure Cablevision supports external drives.

Also, you may want to post in your local Cablevision thread and make sure Cablevision supports external drives.


They do.

I'm hoping someone here can help.

I was a comcast customer for many years using an 8300HD with an external drive. Never had a problem. I moved and the cable provider is now cablevision. I plugged my drive into the new cablevision 8300hd and I did not get any message regarding reformating the drive. The picture just glitched a little. I rebooted the 8300 hd and some type of count down started and after it was done the 8300 hd came back online. However, I dont know if the drive was reformated or even recognized. How can I test to see if the drive is working? If not, is there a manual way to initiate the reformatting of the external drive?

Somehow I didn't see your question in the eSATA thread? Anyway you need to format your drive on a PC, then hook it up again and it will work.

xnappo

P.S. geez cablevision supports esata, is rolling out DOCSIS3 and has said they will never cap. What kind of cable company are they!?

I set my DVR to record Survivor and Supernatural on my 8300hd yesterday in northern VA/Fairfax cox digital cable, and took a nap, woke up around 9.57pm to turn on the TV and saw 2 red lines which meant Supernatural 9-10pm and an NBA game starting 9.30pm were recording. Then around 10.02pm I go to the list and Survivor and Supernatural aren't there like they were never recorded. I go to channel 3 CW to make sure it isn't blacked out because I've seen blacked out channels seem like they're recording with a red line but then nothing is recorded, and the picture and sound is fine. I thought maybe the recordings are there but not showing up on list so I waited until other programs recorded to see when the list said 98% full. I'm using an external 750gb esata drive so it takes about 5 hours non-HD to fill up 1% of capacity, and hours later it went to 98% as if the 2 hours of Survivor/Supernatural never recorded. Later I did a hard reboot to see if the 2 recordings suddenly appeared and of course they didn't, no effect. So what happened? I don't think I've ever seen anything quite like that with seeming recordings disappearing.

hi all,
i just got this box.im new to HD
anyway the box won't let me set resolution to auto.
it seems there is no pass through option.
also i remove the 48- 48p 72p options to get it to 1080i
and the box still goes hunting around. seems it wont upconvert
what do i do ?

Are you saying that when you have the box connected with an HDMI cable, setup won't let you choose Auto HDMI? There is no longer a passthrough choice--it was replaced by the AutoHDMI choice.

Are you saying that when you have the box connected with an HDMI cable, setup won't let you choose Auto HDMI? There is no longer a passthrough choice--it was replaced by the AutoHDMI choice.
thats right i cant chose it.

is the pass through option "auto" also in the 8300HD ?
i havbe the HDC.

Yes the 8300HD box has the autoHDMI choice.

great because in the 8300 HDC you dont have a choice.
also for HDMI audio
it seems you cant change the volume in the box.

great because in the 8300 HDC you dont have a choice.
also for HDMI audio
it seems you cant change the volume in the box.

The volume controls in the 8300, etc., apply only to analog audio. If you use a digital connection for audio, you need to control the volume through a TV or AVR.

Is there any way to stream the output of the 8300HD to another TV in the same house (via wifi) using a 3rd party box? I'd rather not have PCs in the middle of the configuration...

Want to be able to watch shows recorded on my 8300HD that's in my living room on my TV in the bedroom.

Thanks!
Eph

Hey Gang,

I think I know the answer to this question (take the box to Cox and exchange it for a new one), but here goes...

I'm having to do a hard reboot about every other day because I get the "Unrecoverable Write Error" and cannot pause, record, access the DVR list or anything else. Doing the hard reboot procedure temporarily fixes the problem for a day or two but then it happens again.

Is this indicative of a chronically screwed up drive and I need to go exchange it?

Any advise would be appreciated, thanks!!

Tom

You could try reformatting the hard drive first. If that doesn't resolve the problem, you will either have to have the box replaced or replace the hard drive yourself. Here are the reformat instructions from the first page of this thread:

"Last Resort (Reformat). If for some reason you can't get STB to do what you want and you've rebooted it by unplugging it, etc., this is a "last resort" item - say just before taking unit back, you can try reformatting the HDD. The format operation resets all data on the DVR, including all recordings, preferences and scheduled recordings. It is a "factory fresh" reset.

When doing the format procedure, there are times where it won't always "take" and will have to be redone again. The procedure is to get the mail light blinking from the remote control by holding down the pause button. Once blinking do not press anything else except the page down (page -) button on the remote three times while watching the display. The display should say something like HDD-1 and then HDD-2 or HDD-F. Once on the setting you want (typically the third press) leave it alone and put the remote down. In a few minutes, the DVR will reboot and reformat on it's own. Once complete in about 10 to 15 minutes (depending on RDC and FDC signal level quality) the unit will be available to be turned on, but it's best to leave it off and come back at a later time after it has completely downloaded all of the guide data and info.
Press and hold PAUSE until Mail led is lit.
Press PAGE down or (-), and then press LIST three times.
Turn box off. When turned back on, formatting will begin. "

Is there any way to stream the output of the 8300HD to another TV in the same house (via wifi) using a 3rd party box? I'd rather not have PCs in the middle of the configuration...You might want to look in the Home A/V Distribution & Networking (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=36) forum if you have not seen it.


Although I am not sure that there is not already an HDMI or component wireless solution, the next simplest way might be CAT-5 (or 5e or 6, etc.) Baluns for HDMI or component - whichever you have a 2 output AVR, splitter, or switch for. If you go component, you will need something for the audio as well...

Sometimes you can run HDMI to the main TV - but when that TV is off still get component out to the (presumably) smaller TV, although this varies with cable company, headend setup, and TV HDMI implementation.

However, Baluns are expensive and I am not sure how/if they play with standard consumer Ethernet devices. It might get even more expensive if you need to get separate wireless devices to carry it.

v/r,
C-F

i looked at a friends 8300 HD , TWC in new york.
the only output option there was 1080i.
i didnt see a pass through option .
am i missing something

Hi folks, just got my 8300HD yesterday. It rebooted itself 3 times last night, in a 5 hour span. This morning it rebooted twice, after being on for 1 hour. Do I have to return this thing? I've had a dish DVR for years and never had an issue, I thought I'd save money and avoid rain fade by going with strictly cable. So far I'm not impressed, help!

Hey Gang,

I think I know the answer to this question (take the box to Cox and exchange it for a new one), but here goes...

I'm having to do a hard reboot about every other day because I get the "Unrecoverable Write Error" and cannot pause, record, access the DVR list or anything else. Doing the hard reboot procedure temporarily fixes the problem for a day or two but then it happens again.

Is this indicative of a chronically screwed up drive and I need to go exchange it?

Any advise would be appreciated, thanks!!

Tom

too many bad sectors on your hard drive. i wouldn't try reformat, it will not get better. just swap box out.

Hi folks, just got my 8300HD yesterday. It rebooted itself 3 times last night, in a 5 hour span. This morning it rebooted twice, after being on for 1 hour. Do I have to return this thing? I've had a dish DVR for years and never had an issue, I thought I'd save money and avoid rain fade by going with strictly cable. So far I'm not impressed, help!
This is an indication of poor signal strength (too much or too little). If it is low you may have too many splitter in line. You can use an amplified splitter or get your cable supplier to adjust the signal. If it is too high, adding a spliter should help.

Use the diagnostic pages on the PVR to check the signal strength. The procedures are listed in the FAQ on this message board.

Hang in there as this problem is fixable.

Thanks for the reply! I used the diagnostics page and it showed Current Qam readings of -6 level and 35db S/N. The S/N seems marginal, the FAQs said it should be 33 or above. Do you think this could be the problem? I was planning on swapping out the box, as this was what the Comcast csr suggested.

Hi Guys,

My PVR is a little messed up, i have some shows set to record "all episodes all timeslots", but its causing some issues and my pvr isn't allowing me to cancel all of them. Is there any way for me to just clear the schedule on my pvr so I can start from scratch?

Thanks for the reply! I used the diagnostics page and it showed Current Qam readings of -6 level and 35db S/N. The S/N seems marginal, the FAQs said it should be 33 or above. Do you think this could be the problem? I was planning on swapping out the box, as this was what the Comcast csr suggested.
Those readings are reasonable and within normal tolerances. The box will display and poor readings in orange. Swapping the box would be your next step.

Hi Guys,

My PVR is a little messed up, i have some shows set to record "all episodes all timeslots", but its causing some issues and my pvr isn't allowing me to cancel all of them. Is there any way for me to just clear the schedule on my pvr so I can start from scratch?
A reboot should reset the box. Do this by unplugging the PVR for a minute and then plugging it back in. If this does not help then try a cold reboot (see the FAQ), and if that does not help then you can reformat your PVR, but you will loose all your recordings.

Those readings are reasonable and within normal tolerances. The box will display and poor readings in orange. Swapping the box would be your next step.

Picked up the new box today, it's been running for 45 minutes. So far so good, time will tell!


Update - 5 hours and one recording later and the new box is still working! I really miss the 30 second skip, but other than that it appears to be a good one.

Day 2 with the new box, still no problems! Question, would I get a noticably better picture if I used an HDMI cable? Right now I'm using the supplied component cable, I don't want to buy a new cable if it isn't necessary. Anyone try both?

Day 2 with the new box, still no problems! Question, would I get a noticably better picture if I used an HDMI cable? Right now I'm using the supplied component cable, I don't want to buy a new cable if it isn't necessary. Anyone try both?
I expect you'll get opposite opinions on this question. When I first went HD, I went from HDMI to component only because of some very infrequent handshake problems between the STB and the TV. I immediately went back to HDMI as the picture quality with HDMI was much better. I would recommend HDMI over component.

Thanks for the reply! I may just have to try it, as I find the PQ on cable to be slightly less sharp with component cables than I was used to with satellite.

Yes, HDMI does indeed look a little sharper than the component hookup. Now I need to decide if I stay with cable or switch to Directv. I have Dish now, but they charge out the wazzoo to upgrade equipment and I'll need a new HDDVR, new dish, etc. Directv will give me an HDDVR, 3 regular receivers, and installation all free. Would the Directv HD look that much better than the Comcast HD? If so I may go for it, especially since the DVR is supposed to be much better than the 8300.

... Would the Directv HD look that much better than the Comcast HD? If so I may go for it, especially since the DVR is supposed to be much better than the 8300.
Since I've never had Directv, I can't say if their HD will look better but you will get more HD channels. Also, I have found that the quality of the TV is disproportional to the quality of an analog picture. Directv is all digital.:)

Yes, HDMI does indeed look a little sharper than the component hookup. Now I need to decide if I stay with cable or switch to Directv. I have Dish now, but they charge out the wazzoo to upgrade equipment and I'll need a new HDDVR, new dish, etc. Directv will give me an HDDVR, 3 regular receivers, and installation all free. Would the Directv HD look that much better than the Comcast HD? If so I may go for it, especially since the DVR is supposed to be much better than the 8300.
I don't know if Comcast plans to offer new IPG software anytime soon, but it's more the 8300 software that is lacking, not the hardware.

I suspect image quality will be comparable, but don't get lured by "free" hardware. I don't know what Comcast will cost you and I have no dog in the hunt. Just make sure that when you compare prices, you compare them over the 2-year term that is required for the "free" DirecTV hardware, and then compare the 3rd year non-discounted prices. I suspect you'll still see a savings, but it won't be near as much as it looks when considering DirecTV's 12-month discounts.

I, too, am thinking of switching from Cox, but I'm waiting until I get back from a 3-month vacation and then until Cox releases their new software shortly after that. They've already added new channels, but that was never an issue for me because there is very little HD content that I am interested in on most cablenets.

For years Dish was my primary service, with basic cable as a backup. With my switch to HDTV I had to choose which way to go. I'm evaluating cable now, but could still go with Direct or even upgrade my Dish. They all have pros and cons, making it a difficult choice. My biggest issue is rain fade, here in SW Florida rainy season lasts from now until October. I typically lose my Dish signal for 5 to 10 minutes during a downpour, very annoying. Cable won't have that issue, but when and if it goes down it would typically be for much longer. Right now it seems my options are:

Stay with cable, replace 8300 with Tivo if necessary to get better DVR functions (30 second skip, new episode only timers, etc.

Stay with Dish, but I'd need to pay for upgrades to equipment. Rain fade might still be an issue, but maybe less with newer oval dish? DVR said to be the best of the lot (next to Tivo). More HD than cable, slightly better picture?

Go with Directv, free install and equipment. Rain fade again maybe an issue, who knows? More HD channels than cable, DVR better than 8300. Better picture than cable?

Whichever way I decide I'm going with an outdoor antenna for a backup, as the price of having both cable and satellite is no longer working for me. I have until June 4th to decide with Dish before the next bill is due, decisions , decisions!

Now I need to decide if I stay with cable or switch to Directv. I have Dish now, but they charge out the wazzoo to upgrade equipment and I'll need a new HDDVR, new dish, etc. Directv will give me an HDDVR, 3 regular receivers, and installation all free. Would the Directv HD look that much better than the Comcast HD? If so I may go for it, especially since the DVR is supposed to be much better than the 8300.

I switched from TW to D* a year ago and the D* DVR is way better than the 8300, but then the On Demand feature from D* is not nearly as good and you have the commitment to make.

I was just down in NJ and couldn't believe the mediocre HD on TW!!

All-in-all, I'm more than satisfied with my switch to D*!!

Greetings. Not sure if you guys can help with this or not, but it's worth a shot.

I recently got a floor model Sharp LC46D85U that did not come with a remote. I have successfully programmed my 8300HD remote to control the TV functions, EXCEPT I cannot open the menu on the TV, so I can't adjust any of the picture settings and such.

When I press the "settings" button on the remote, it sends the signal to the cable box instead of the TV, even when I am in "TV Mode".

Is there any way I can fix this or are there any other suggestions? Thanks!


j

The TV doesn't have any buttons on it that let you get to the menu without the remote?

The TV doesn't have any buttons on it that let you get to the menu without the remote?

It does, but it's insanely tedious, especially since you can't see what results you are producing without walking back across the room after every change. If I could just get the menu button to actually transmit to the TV when I'm in TV mode instead of insisting I want the 8300 menu, it would be much easier.

I'm hoping there is some kind of procedure to change this behavior like there is with the volume and channel buttons.

Thanks!

j

The standard remotes for the 8300 won't get you the TV's menu. Try a universal remote or see if you can buy a replacement remote from the manufacturer.

Try a universal remote or see if you can buy a replacement remote from the manufacturer.

You might want to Google the TV or remote #.....I just bought a replacement remote for my aunt's old JVC TV and it was about 1/3 the cost of the actual JVC original part.

Stay with cable, replace 8300 with Tivo if necessary to get better DVR functions (30 second skip, new episode only timers, etc.
You should also consider a programmable universal remote which will allow you to program a 30 second or longer skip. You will also be able to hide all the other remotes.

I just got a new HDTV and would like to perform a low tech calibration of the new picture settings by hooking up both sets to the same box. I connected the new set via HDMI and the old via component. I do not get any signal (except audio) on the old HDTV connected to the component video. Are there any advanced tricks to enable dual output?

Also the 3:00 am buffer purges and/or other times the IPG data is downloaded has been driving me crazy since Aug 2008 and Cox doesn't give a damn (10+ calls)! Is this bug only present in SARA 1.89.27.1? Tucson was running SARA 1.89.18.1 before Aug 2008 and wasn't a problem then. This bug appears to be a problem with the HDMI handshake, it can be reproduced at times other than IPG downloads by rewinding or pausing the DVR, turning off the HDTV connected via HDMI and then turning on the power to the HDTV. All contents of the buffer are deleted, you are kicked to live TV, and until you change the channel pausing or re-winding the 8300 HD is not possible. If you have a 2nd TV, you can hook it up via coax S-Video or composite and watch the 8300 skip to live and kill the buffer.

I just got a new HDTV and would like to perform a low tech calibration of the new picture settings by hooking up both sets to the same box. I connected the new set via HDMI and the old via component. I do not get any signal (except audio) on the old HDTV connected to the component video. Are there any advanced tricks to enable dual output?




As simple as this sounds, visually make sure that your HDMI connection is fully intact/attached properly. I had a similar situation with another component, where I had both coax cables and HDMI, AND when putting the unit back in place the HDMI came loose. Since the audio cables where in place, I had sound, but no video. It drove me crazy because I initially tried to verify a good connection via feeling behind the units and did not pick up on it (actually see the loose/non connected HDMI) until I went to add another cable as a replacement. Just a thought so you don't fall in the same trap I did.

Some software versions (or cablecos) disable the Component connection when HDMI is also attached.

Anyone know if there's a way to delete all the recordings at once on a scientific atlanta explorer 8240hdc?

I have a bunch of random programs and deleting them all one by one is getting old.

Anyone know if there's a way to delete all the recordings at once on a scientific atlanta explorer 8240hdc?

I have a bunch of random programs and deleting them all one by one is getting old.I don't think there is a way to delete all the recordings without also deleting all the settings and all scheduled recordings.

To delete everything (recordings, settings and scheduled recordings) you can
do the following which is described in the first post. I am not recommending that you do this, just posting it as FYI.

Last Resort (Reformat). If for some reason you can't get STB to do what you want and you've rebooted it by unplugging it, etc., this is a "last resort" item - say just before taking unit back, you can try reformatting the HDD. The format operation resets all data on the DVR, including all recordings, preferences and scheduled recordings. It is a "factory fresh" reset.

When doing the format procedure, there are times where it won't always "take" and will have to be redone again. The procedure is to get the mail light blinking from the remote control by holding down the pause button. Once blinking do not press anything else except the page down (page -) button on the remote three times while watching the display. The display should say something like HDD-1 and then HDD-2 or HDD-F. Once on the setting you want (typically the third press) leave it alone and put the remote down. In a few minutes, the DVR will reboot and reformat on it's own. Once complete in about 10 to 15 minutes (depending on RDC and FDC signal level quality) the unit will be available to be turned on, but it's best to leave it off and come back at a later time after it has completely downloaded all of the guide data and info.

1) Press and hold PAUSE until Mail led is lit.
2) Press PAGE down or (-), and then press LIST three times.
3) Turn box off. When turned back on, formatting will begin.

AFAIK, RussB is correct. Obviously, it is far easier to keep up with recording management on some sort of regular schedule.

I have been with TWC and this 8300 box for a while now....

D* is channel for channel a better picture....In So Fl. some of the lower tier channels a barely watchable....but it seems the HD channels are about the same.

I have basic cable package included in my condo....so going back to D* would be a wallet buster....

I have searched this forum for an answer to ...

When I record shows to my DVD recorder , the volume is probably only 50% of the original ...Why

Thanx and sorry if this answer is somewhere else and I missed it...

question on recordings...

I rarely if ever watch live TV, I watch what the DVR has already recorded (I HATE commercials)... I have noticed tho, near all of my HD recordings seem to have lower quality than what I would expect. most of them seem to have some "blurriness" for lack of better word. dunno how best to describe but its like watching lower quality AVI, where similar colors next to each other seem to blur together and form kinda circles and wave patterns. the picture is not nearly as crisp as what I would expect from true HD signal. I notice this on several channels and recordings and not just one. perhaps it is just certain shows? for example I know it happens when I watch a recorded episode of NCIS.

my question then is, are the recordings on this DVR compressed from the original signal? and if so how much? I have read elsewhere that the original ComCast signal (I have comcast in lower palm beach county/boca raton, fl if that matters) is NOT compressed which should produce an extremely very crisp picture, at least live.

question on recordings...

I rarely if ever watch live TV, I watch what the DVR has already recorded (I HATE commercials)... I have noticed tho, near all of my HD recordings seem to have lower quality than what I would expect. most of them seem to have some "blurriness" for lack of better word. dunno how best to describe but its like watching lower quality AVI, where similar colors next to each other seem to blur together and form kinda circles and wave patterns. the picture is not nearly as crisp as what I would expect from true HD signal. I notice this on several channels and recordings and not just one. perhaps it is just certain shows? for example I know it happens when I watch a recorded episode of NCIS.

my question then is, are the recordings on this DVR compressed from the original signal? and if so how much? I have read elsewhere that the original ComCast signal (I have comcast in lower palm beach county/boca raton, fl if that matters) is NOT compressed which should produce an extremely very crisp picture, at least live.

It sounds like what you are seeing macroblocking and it is caused by compression. With a DVR there is no such thing as "LIVE" as what you see is always what is on the hard disc. You can verify this by turning on a non-dvr attached TV elsewhere in the house and listen to the delayed audio coming from the DVR set. Considering that 1hr of HD video occupies about 10gb of disk space on the dvr I don't think it is being recompressed, however there is compression done at the network level, the affiliate level and the cable co. level before if reaches you. OTA Live will factor out only one leg - This is why live local broadcasts will look the best OTA, you only have one leg of compression to deal with.

so if i watch an HD signal on a non-dvr it will still be compressed - but less so? and then watching a live signal on a DVR is absolutely no different than watching a show recorded days ago on the same DVR? and as I think, I do believe the best quality is from a local network channel rather than a station like USA or TNT, but not 100% on that

so if i watch an HD signal on a non-dvr it will still be compressed - but less so? and then watching a live signal on a DVR is absolutely no different than watching a show recorded days ago on the same DVR? and as I think, I do believe the best quality is from a local network channel rather than a station like USA or TNT, but not 100% on that

First of all, ALL HD is compressed at some point. The station may get a 45 mbps signal and they compress it down to 19.3 mbps for transmission. However, they may compress it even further, as KPHO and others do, to make room for a sub-channel. Most (all?) cablebnets also don't pass the full 19.3, so it's rare these days to get the highest quality possible.

Cableco's, including Cox, further complicate the matter by stuffing more than 2 channels per QAM because of bandwidth limitations. A QAM is designed to hold 2 full HD channels (38+ mbps), so anything more than that can compromise quality.

Here, Cox tries to minimize the quality impact by stuffing HD channels that already pass less than the standard. In the case of KPHO and others, they take that 14, combine it with another 14, and then a 10 to fill the 38. If that is all those channels are passing, then Cox is not compromising their quality. However, if a network is passing 14 and Cox trims it to only 10, quality can suffer.

Now, as for recordings. The image you see live and the image you see form a recording should be the same, allowing for some hardware blips now and then. The image you see with a DVR and the one you see with a non-DVR can differ ever so slightly because of different video processors, etc., but should essentially be the same. The same is true for cable vs satellite. People will argue about which is better, cable at Mpeg2 or DirecTV at Mpeg4, etc., but the difference is usually quite subtle and mostly due to improvements in processors, etc. Cable gets hew hardware, so they look better. DirecTV then gets new hardware and they look better. Then the cycle repeats. Technology is usually a leapfrog environment.

Anyway, the quality between channels, and programs, can be extreme, even though both are HD. NCIS is a ferfect example because it is shot somewhat soft whereas CSI: Miami is pumped so high it's ready to burst. ABC uses 720p so it can get away with 14 mbps and still look really good (Lost) while CBS uses 1080i and doesn't look near as good at that same 14 mbps rate. Then too, what is being broadcast plays a role. A standard procedural, like House, may look really good at 14 mbps while the NFL, with all it's action, won't.

I don't know if this helps explain anything or not, but if your recordings look worse than the same program live, then something seems to be wrong. The recording should look the same as what you see if you watch live through the DVR, allowing for, as I mentioned, a few hardware blips now and again. Do not try to compare one channel to another though, or even one program to anotherm, there are to many variables, but it's not the DVR.

First of all, ALL HD is compressed at some point. The station may get a 45 mbps signal and they compress it down to 19.3 mbps for transmission. However, they may compress it even further, as KPHO and others do, to make room for a sub-channel. Most (all?) cablebnets also don't pass the full 19.3, so it's rare these days to get the highest quality possible.

Cableco's, including Cox, further complicate the matter by stuffing more than 2 channels per QAM because of bandwidth limitations. A QAM is designed to hold 2 full HD channels (38+ mbps), so anything more than that can compromise quality.

Here, Cox tries to minimize the quality impact by stuffing HD channels that already pass less than the standard. In the case of KPHO and others, they take that 14, combine it with another 14, and then a 10 to fill the 38. If that is all those channels are passing, then Cox is not compromising their quality. However, if a network is passing 14 and Cox trims it to only 10, quality can suffer.

Now, as for recordings. The image you see live and the image you see form a recording should be the same, allowing for some hardware blips now and then. The image you see with a DVR and the one you see with a non-DVR can differ ever so slightly because of different video processors, etc., but should essentially be the same. The same is true for cable vs satellite. People will argue about which is better, cable at Mpeg2 or DirecTV at Mpeg4, etc., but the difference is usually quite subtle and mostly due to improvements in processors, etc. Cable gets hew hardware, so they look better. DirecTV then gets new hardware and they look better. Then the cycle repeats. Technology is usually a leapfrog environment.

Anyway, the quality between channels, and programs, can be extreme, even though both are HD. NCIS is a ferfect example because it is shot somewhat soft whereas CSI: Miami is pumped so high it's ready to burst. ABC uses 720p so it can get away with 14 mbps and still look really good (Lost) while CBS uses 1080i and doesn't look near as good at that same 14 mbps rate. Then too, what is being broadcast plays a role. A standard procedural, like House, may look really good at 14 mbps while the NFL, with all it's action, won't.

I don't know if this helps explain anything or not, but if your recordings look worse than the same program live, then something seems to be wrong. The recording should look the same as what you see if you watch live through the DVR, allowing for, as I mentioned, a few hardware blips now and again. Do not try to compare one channel to another though, or even one program to anotherm, there are to many variables, but it's not the DVR.

I understand completely about comparing one show to another and especially one channel to another can be "apples-and-oranges". I had thought though that on a DVR watching "live" would be better than watching "taped" but now understand that too - we are always watching time-shifting, regardless. and as I mentioned NCIS seems to be one of the worse that I can view (relatively speaking) as it is full of the blurs and waves and swirls.

my intention was to attempt recording of some shows (away from the DVR), i thought i would need to do so live to get best quality, but now i see it doesnt matter... cool, i can continue to not watch shows live :-)

NCIS seems to be one of the worse that I can view (relatively speaking) as it is full of the blurs and waves and swirls.
Not sure where you are and who your cableco is, but my NCIS doesn't exhibit these problems, at least not the way you've described them. The image is a little soft, but still quite good. Are you catching reruns on a cablenet perhaps?

Not sure where you are and who your cableco is, but my NCIS doesn't exhibit these problems, at least not the way you've described them. The image is a little soft, but still quite good. Are you catching reruns on a cablenet perhaps?

I'll have to wait til next week to confirm 100% I did not watch a re-run/syndication episode I had previously recorded but the episode i watched last night exhibited the described problems. I did say "relative" as an "un-trained eye" may not catch what I am seeing, I am a bit discerning in the PQ. To me at least, the waves are evident in the face close-ups and in the backgrounds when the background is out-of-focus. I'll check with the local forum as well to see if others are experiencing it.

I'll have to wait til next week to confirm 100% I did not watch a re-run/syndication episode I had previously recorded but the episode i watched last night exhibited the described problems. I did say "relative" as an "un-trained eye" may not catch what I am seeing, I am a bit discerning in the PQ. To me at least, the waves are evident in the face close-ups and in the backgrounds when the background is out-of-focus. I'll check with the local forum as well to see if others are experiencing it.

Although I switched from TW to D* a year ago, I remember having a problem with recordings on my 8300 which were completely resolved with a reboot.

If you've tried that and I missed it, I do apologize!

I used to be able to use both the HDMI and Component out at the same time, but now the 8300HD will no longer allow me to do this. Is there a workaround?
Thanks

I used to be able to use both the HDMI and Component out at the same time, but now the 8300HD will no longer allow me to do this. Is there a workaround?
Thanks

Funny timing that you just posted this today, but I have the same question. I was running component cables for awhile through my Slingbox and then to the TV.

Now I have an HDMI cable to my TV which makes the picture sharper, and the component cables to the slingbox, but the slingbox is no longer seeing the picture anymore.

Dual output would be the ideal here - is there a way of go into some kind of advanced settings to enable this?

Same for me. I discovered this with my SlingBox also. Now I have to remove the HDMI from the back of my TV for the Sling to have a picture.

Not sure where you are and who your cableco is, but my NCIS doesn't exhibit these problems, at least not the way you've described them. The image is a little soft, but still quite good. Are you catching reruns on a cablenet perhaps?

OK, watching this weeks NCIS right now, off the local ComCast CBS-HD channel. and the PQ issues are there. fuzzy backgrounds, color-blurs in facial close-ups, some of the waves in background walls. as a comparison I switched over to the local NBC-HD (americas got talent) and that picture was much better. not a fair test of course, but just to prove myself that the TV itself and overall cable signal wasnt a problem

I used to be able to use both the HDMI and Component out at the same time, but now the 8300HD will no longer allow me to do this. Is there a workaround?I have found no in-house work-around once that [functionality] is implemented. The [media companies] are "closing the analog hole", and this is probably one strategy towards that. You may be able to get to a real technician at the cable company to turn [that effect] off if it was a side-effect of a software update and not intended.

Alternately, here I can turn off the PJ on HDMI and the component outputs work (without physical removal of the cable), so your HDMI sink (AVR or TV) may be still "active" on the HDMI while the sink is ["off" - but really in "standby"]. Or if that is an available setting for the [mythical cable technician] that may be a compromise for the cable company.

OK, watching this weeks NCIS right now, off the local ComCast CBS-HD channel. and the PQ issues are there. fuzzy backgrounds, color-blurs in facial close-ups, some of the waves in background walls. as a comparison I switched over to the local NBC-HD (americas got talent) and that picture was much better. not a fair test of course, but just to prove myself that the TV itself and overall cable signal wasnt a problemIf your TV has a digital tuner, a comparison to the OTA feed would provide more information.

v/r,
C-F

Just got a SA8300 hooked up to my new HDTV with HDMI

i've noticed when I watch certain channels, it will freeze for a couple seconds, then continue normally... approximately 5-10 minutes later, it will do it again...then continue normally

it is annoying and very regular

some channels do not do it at all. What is the problem? Is it just the cable signal?

First thing is probably to try out component cables (just need the cheap ones which should have come with the DVR).
If the problem remains, it could be:
1- the DVR
2- the cable itself - somewhere [upstream] of the DVR. It could be a signal strength problem anywhere from the short cable to the wall all the way to the cable company head-end.
3- the channel feed to the cable company from those channels.

If the problem goes away, it is in the HDMI chain. The complexity of that protocol and the different manufacturers' implementations makes most consumer troubleshooting similar to practicing magic. You could try different cables, or if you are running longer lengths - better cables (from Monoprice or one of the forum sponsors, not the high-dollar ones unless you just want...).

v/r,
C-F

comcast tells me that me county only supports the SA 8300HD. they are coming on Thurs. My tv is a samsung ln40b530 and the manual states that I might have problems with a stb that is not 1.3. Does that make any sense. I have read the online manuals for the SA 8300 and can't find any reference to what HDMi spec they are.

Thanks

In the sense that they only [currently] offer the SA 8xxxHDx series of DVR/STB, it does not matter. You could go with the cable co, and get the 8300HD / 8xxxHDC. try HDMI with a low priced HDMI cable from one of the forum sponsors. if it gives you trouble, try component and digital (coaxial or optical). If neither of those satisfy you, you can purchase a TIVOfor areas with SDV potentially acquire a tuning adapter loose SDV channels You could go with a satellite provider... You could move...

v/r,
C-F

This is my first post so I apologize if this is out of place or redundant but I've searched far and wide for help on this.
I just set up my first HDTV and HDMI capable AVR. Cox cable in Fairfax provided me with an SA8300HD DVR. It was connected via HDMI to my AVR and then HDMI to my Panasonic G10 plasma. After a day, it started giving the unrecoverable write error whenever I pressed any function related to DVR recording. I returned it and exchanged for another one. Same thing happened. So, then I called a tech to the house who checked all the signals and said it was a freak coincidence of two boxes with bad hard drives. An hour after he left, it happened again. Today a tech came to my house and replaced the box and said that my brand new Pioneer 1019AH-K was sending a signal via the HDMI cable causing the SA8300 to shut down and fail. So I agreed to change the connections and run HDMI from the SA8300 DVR box directly to the TV instead of the AVR and use a digital audio cable to the AVR for surround sound. Amazingly, the error just showed up again...on the 4th SA8300HD in 3 weeks!!!!! Does anyone know what I am doing wrong in my setup?

This is my first post so I apologize if this is out of place or redundant but I've searched far and wide for help on this.
I just set up my first HDTV and HDMI capable AVR. Cox cable in Fairfax provided me with an SA8300HD DVR. It was connected via HDMI to my AVR and then HDMI to my Panasonic G10 plasma. After a day, it started giving the unrecoverable write error whenever I pressed any function related to DVR recording. I returned it and exchanged for another one. Same thing happened. So, then I called a tech to the house who checked all the signals and said it was a freak coincidence of two boxes with bad hard drives. An hour after he left, it happened again. Today a tech came to my house and replaced the box and said that my brand new Pioneer 1019AH-K was sending a signal via the HDMI cable causing the SA8300 to shut down and fail. So I agreed to change the connections and run HDMI from the SA8300 DVR box directly to the TV instead of the AVR and use a digital audio cable to the AVR for surround sound. Amazingly, the error just showed up again...on the 4th SA8300HD in 3 weeks!!!!! Does anyone know what I am doing wrong in my setup?
The first post in this thread has a lot of good information. You can try doing a hard reboot and see if that error message happens again. Another thing you can try is using component cables and see what happens.

The first post in this thread has a lot of good information. You can try doing a hard reboot and see if that error message happens again. Another thing you can try is using component cables and see what happens.
Thanks for the advice. I've done the hard reboot after which it works for a while and then later goes back to the error. I will try the component cable method and ditch the HDMI connection. Any chance it is a bad HDMI cable? I did get it from monoprice, but perhaps...

I am wondering how far out in advance can you set a recording? Is it only within a week?

Can I manually record whatever is on from 8-9 on channel 3 every friday?

I am wondering how far out in advance can you set a recording? Is it only within a week?

Can I manually record whatever is on from 8-9 on channel 3 every friday?

Yes...choose that chanel and that time slot in the guide..there should be a choice for same day same time (dont recall what its called) no matter what is on...

Yes...choose that chanel and that time slot in the guide..there should be a choice for same day same time (dont recall what its called) no matter what is on...

Just to be clear, don't use the guide button to do this. You have to use the manual recording feature (using the dvr button). If you use the guide button, it will only record if the selected program is the the same week after week.

Thanks all! Looks like manual record can go out two weeks also.

vegggas,
I noticed that you have "SARA 1.89.18.1 & 1.90.x.x (Cablecard)" in your signature. Does that imply that the SARA version for the HDC 1.90.x.x versions are tied to the specific installed CableCard or CC firmware?

I never bothered to look at the version on my HDC until this weekend when I was moving things around to disconnect some unused outlets and reduce the impact of the splitter in the main room with the two DVR...

v/r,
C-F

vegggas,
I noticed that you have "SARA 1.89.18.1 & 1.90.x.x (Cablecard)" in your signature. Does that imply that the SARA version for the HDC 1.90.x.x versions are tied to the specific installed CableCard or CC firmware?
v/r,
C-F
I had to update my old signature... The 400 character limit forced me to delete the link to the external drive thread:mad:
I'm not sure exactly what you are asking, but there are differing SARA, OS and ROM versions for the 8300HD and 8300HDC due to the Cablecard and seperable security feature.

vegggas

I had to update my old signature... The 400 character limit forced me to delete the link to the external drive thread:mad:

I hate that limit, but I guess I understand it. I wish the hyperlinks didn't count.

just received a 8300 from comcast and the guide only goes out 1 week. I thought it was supposed to have two weeks of programming. Is that correct and is there any fix other than returning the box for another (used, thats all comcast offers) box?
I am in Carroll County Md. They also tell me that the box can't be updated remotely (firmware) and I don't know what firmware it is running
thanks

just received a 8300 from comcast and the guide only goes out 1 week. I thought it was supposed to have two weeks of programming. Is that correct and is there any fix other than returning the box for another (used, thats all comcast offers) box?
I am in Carroll County Md. They also tell me that the box can't be updated remotely (firmware) and I don't know what firmware it is running
thanks

There is info in the first post on how to find the firmware version, not that it matters much these days. Cableco's push new firmware, so the box is always up to date with the latest the cableco offers. Most (?) cableco's only offer 1 week's worth of guide data though, so that's not going to be fixed with either new firmware or a different box. Not sure where you got the idea they offer 2 weeks of data, but when/if they do, you'll automatically receive it.

There is info in the first post on how to find the firmware version, not that it matters much these days. Cableco's push new firmware, so the box is always up to date with the latest the cableco offers. Most (?) cableco's only offer 1 week's worth of guide data though, so that's not going to be fixed with either new firmware or a different box. Not sure where you got the idea they offer 2 weeks of data, but when/if they do, you'll automatically receive it.

a customer service person told me that it should be 2 weeks but he was probably wrong. I tried the options in post 1 to get to the firmware but they did not work, perhaps I did it wrong. Customer service also told me that they can't update this over the wire, but he could be wrong about that also

Thanks

a customer service person told me that it should be 2 weeks but he was probably wrong. I tried the options in post 1 to get to the firmware but they did not work, perhaps I did it wrong. Customer service also told me that they can't update this over the wire, but he could be wrong about that also

Thanks

Did you look at the part in the 1st post regarding identifying what software you have? I thought Comcast used SARA, but I could be wrong? If they do, it's pretty simple to press and hold the Pause button on the remote until the Mail LED lights, then press Page Up or Down. Unless they've disabled that, it should still work, if you have SARA.

However, I don't believe the version is germane to your problem. If you have 1 week, then obviously the CSR was wrong and may be talking about a change coming in the future. They could have also been confused with the Tivo software they offer, it might have 2 weeks data. Anyway, firmware and guide updates are definitely done "over the wire", otherwise everyone would have to return their box to get changes and that just doesn't happen. I suspect there was a miscommunication here.

Did you look at the part in the 1st post regarding identifying what software you have? I thought Comcast used SARA, but I could be wrong? If they do, it's pretty simple to press and hold the Pause button on the remote until the Mail LED lights, then press Page Up or Down. Unless they've disabled that, it should still work, if you have SARA.

However, I don't believe the version is germane to your problem. If you have 1 week, then obviously the CSR was wrong and may be talking about a change coming in the future. They could have also been confused with the Tivo software they offer, it might have 2 weeks data. Anyway, firmware and guide updates are definitely done "over the wire", otherwise everyone would have to return their box to get changes and that just doesn't happen. I suspect there was a miscommunication here.

Yeah, shocking that a customer service rep in India wouldn't know what the hell they are talking about.

I had to update my old signature... The 400 character limit forced me to delete the link to the external drive thread:mad:
I'm not sure exactly what you are asking, but there are differing SARA, OS and ROM versions for the 8300HD and 8300HDC due to the Cablecard and seperable security feature.

vegggasSorry, just wondering if the .x.x might mean the firmware in the box was associated/[tied] to the firmware in the CableCard that is [bolted] into the STB. I see you have numbers in there now, so I trust the two firmware(s) are not associated.

v/r,
C-F

I am using Comcast 8300 with SARA 1.90.5.a103.

The issue that I am having began a few months ago after the Comcast "technician" decided that I needed to replace my DVR to correct a problem. The new DVR does not respond predictably to inputs from the remote...for example, I want to FF through a commercial...I push FF...nothing happens for a few seconds so I push FF again...nothing happens so I push FF again...now I get 3 quick FF pushes...which is OK, because it is not nearly as bad as when I want to stop FF. I have changed the DVR 4 times in the last 2 months and each of the new units have exhibited the same described behavior.

I ready to throw the remote at the TV in frustration...any ideas from the SARA experts?

I am using Comcast 8300 with SARA 1.90.5.a103.

The issue that I am having began a few months ago after the Comcast "technician" decided that I needed to replace my DVR to correct a problem. The new DVR does not respond predictably to inputs from the remote...for example, I want to FF through a commercial...I push FF...nothing happens for a few seconds so I push FF again...nothing happens so I push FF again...now I get 3 quick FF pushes...which is OK, because it is not nearly as bad as when I want to stop FF. I have changed the DVR 4 times in the last 2 months and each of the new units have exhibited the same described behavior.

I ready to throw the remote at the TV in frustration...any ideas from the SARA experts?The inputs are queued and then processed when the DVR gets to them. Don't keep pressing the button. Either keep track of what you press or wait until the DVR responds.

You have a 8300 HDC which uses a cable card. You can try to get a 8300 HD which may respond quicker. Houcton Comcast stores sometimes have them but not often.

Don't keep pressing the button. Either keep track of what you press or wait until the DVR responds.

Hence the problem...I push the button and nothing happens...I assume that I didn't push the button all the way down...so I push again.

It is far worse when I FF through the entire next segment and into the next set of commercials before the unit reacts to a stop.

Hence the problem...I push the button and nothing happens...I assume that I didn't push the button all the way down...so I push again.

It is far worse when I FF through the entire next segment and into the next set of commercials before the unit reacts to a stop.

I have this happen sometimes too, but under 2 repeatable conditions.

Wherever my remote batteries get low, the DVR responds slowly or not at all. Since you have replaced your DVR, I assume you also replaced your remote and this is not your problem, but it never hurts to mention just in case.

Believe it or not, but the other time is during the Christmas season. I have my DVR in a cabinet with a beveled-glass door. We locate our Christmas tree just to the side of the cabinet. During the holidays I have to open the door to get a direct LOS to the DVR or the reflections often interfere with the remote signals. I can close the door and have problems. Open it and the problems go away. Wierd!

Otherwise, my DVR is very responsive to the remote. I did notice slowness while using TWCs Navigator in North Carolina last month, but that was the software, not the hardware. The same hardware worked fine before they switched to Navigator.

I have this happen sometimes too

Thanks DoubleDAZ, I have mine set up as a direct shot but I will change batteries to make sure that isn't the issue.

I am encountering this issue in spades while watching TDF. The commercials come often and I cannot use the fastest FF speed without over-running the next entire segment...so I go slow forward speed so i can get it stopped when programming resumes.

Can anyone comment on the HD-Tivo DVR with cable card? I was contemplating buying the DVR if I can avoid throwing the remote at the TV.

Thanks DoubleDAZ, I have mine set up as a direct shot but I will change batteries to make sure that isn't the issue.

I am encountering this issue in spades while watching TDF. The commercials come often and I cannot use the fastest FF speed without over-running the next entire segment...so I go slow forward speed so i can get it stopped when programming resumes.

Can anyone comment on the HD-Tivo DVR with cable card? I was contemplating buying the DVR if I can avoid throwing the remote at the TV.

I hope you are not saying it responds differently to different channels???

Anyway, never heard any problems like this with the HD-Tvo. Of course, other than the few instances I mentioned, I've never had troubles with the 8300, but then I don't have the cablecard version.

I have this happen sometimes too, but under 2 repeatable conditions.

Wherever my remote batteries get low, the DVR responds slowly or not at all. Since you have replaced your DVR, I assume you also replaced your remote and this is not your problem, but it never hurts to mention just in case.

Believe it or not, but the other time is during the Christmas season. I have my DVR in a cabinet with a beveled-glass door. We locate our Christmas tree just to the side of the cabinet. During the holidays I have to open the door to get a direct LOS to the DVR or the reflections often interfere with the remote signals. I can close the door and have problems. Open it and the problems go away. Wierd!

Otherwise, my DVR is very responsive to the remote. I did notice slowness while using TWCs Navigator in North Carolina last month, but that was the software, not the hardware. The same hardware worked fine before they switched to Navigator.

Just so you know ... I have a SA-8300HD and a new Panny Plasma and it works fine. Also worked with my old Samsung plasma.

However, I also wonder if it's just a remote control issue. If direct sunlight is hitting the IR sensor on the DVR, try a little "blinder" or relocate the DVR for testing. Mine doesn't but some plasma interfere ... try pushing the DVR back a little beyond the "plane" of the plasma display. Some overhead home lighting interferes. Try it at night with the lights off (or maybe even the TV off).

Thanks DoubleDAZ, I have mine set up as a direct shot but I will change batteries to make sure that isn't the issue.

I am encountering this issue in spades while watching TDF. The commercials come often and I cannot use the fastest FF speed without over-running the next entire segment...so I go slow forward speed so i can get it stopped when programming resumes.

Can anyone comment on the HD-Tivo DVR with cable card? I was contemplating buying the DVR if I can avoid throwing the remote at the TV.I don't use the fastest FF speed to skip commercials. When I tried using the fatest FF speed, it would overshoot where the program restarted so much I would spend more time rewinding than I saved. So I use the third fastest FF speed to skip commercials. While I am fast forwarding, as soon as I see the program has restarted, I press the pause button. Then, I press the replay key 3 times and then the play key. I am usually close to where the program restarts. Then I use either the FF key or Rew key slowest speed for a few seconds to get to the exact point where the program restarts and press play.

I love channels that have the Mature Audience warning or the "city scape like the CSIs. Going at three FFs when you see those cues you can press play and pretty much land on the beginning.

I don't use the fastest FF speed to skip commercials. When I tried using the fatest FF speed, it would overshoot where the program restarted so much I would spend more time rewinding than I saved. So I use the third fastest FF speed to skip commercials. While I am fast forwarding, as soon as I see the program has restarted, I press the pause button. Then, I press the replay key 3 times and then the play key. I am usually close to where the program restarts. Then I use either the FF key or Rew key slowest speed for a few seconds to get to the exact point where the program restarts and press play.

I notice I have a pretty drastically different picture (much brighter) just running the TV through a direct coaxial cable connection versus the SA8300 component connection. It's also that way if I run the input from the STB through the DVD recorder through to the TV. Is there an explanation for this?

I hope you are not saying it responds differently to different channels???

Anyway, never heard any problems like this with the HD-Tvo. Of course, other than the few instances I mentioned, I've never had troubles with the 8300, but then I don't have the cablecard version.

No...just too many commercials...I have been using an 8300HD for years without ever seeing this issue and I use 4 FF presses to blast through commercials...It only started after I got "upgraded" unknowingly to the HDC version. I have had (and been charged for) 4 on-site visits and the "technicians" have not yet fixed a single problem. I am also experiencing the intermittent drop-outs described earlier in this thread.

I am reluctant to go Tivo because I doubt the reliability of the Comcast service...and don't get me started on compression artifacts.

I have had (and been charged for) 4 on-site visits.......

Unfortunately, you're not kidding, are you? I could see them charging you if they told you on the first one that's just the way it is. But how do they justify charging you if they try to fix it and, for all intents and purposes, admit there is a problem? :(

Unfortunately, you're not kidding, are you? I could see them charging you if they told you on the first one that's just the way it is. But how do they justify charging you if they try to fix it and, for all intents and purposes, admit there is a problem? :(

I saved some recordings to demonstrate the issues that I was observing...the "technician" had no clue...which is why I have a new DVR that doesn't work...I am sure that you have helped far more people solve problems than all the "technicians" in Houston combined...

I am sure that you have helped far more people solve problems than all the "technicians" in Houston combined...

I credit RussB with helping all those in Houston. Hi Russ. ;)

I credit RussB with helping all those in Houston. Hi Russ. ;)Hi Dave.

How was your trip?

For anyone in Houston, click on the Houston link in my signature

I am using Comcast 8300 with SARA 1.90.5.a103.

The issue that I am having began a few months ago after the Comcast "technician" decided that I needed to replace my DVR to correct a problem. The new DVR does not respond predictably to inputs from the remote...for example, I want to FF through a commercial...I push FF...nothing happens for a few seconds so I push FF again...nothing happens so I push FF again...now I get 3 quick FF pushes...which is OK, because it is not nearly as bad as when I want to stop FF. I have changed the DVR 4 times in the last 2 months and each of the new units have exhibited the same described behavior.

I ready to throw the remote at the TV in frustration...any ideas from the SARA experts?I get this behavior fairly regularly with my 8300, but ONLY when it is first powered on. Once it begins to respond properly to the remote, then it continues perfectly as long as it remains on.

I suspect (though I haven't tested my theory) that the problem occurs while the 8300 is initializing the interface to my external eSATA drive. The only ready way to test that theory is to remove the external drive for a while, but I haven't been willing to do that.

I notice I have a pretty drastically different picture (much brighter) just running the TV through a direct coaxial cable connection versus the SA8300 component connection. It's also that way if I run the input from the STB through the DVD recorder through to the TV. Is there an explanation for this?You are talking about the internal ATSC/QAM tuner verses an external tuner going through component cables? Maybe the TV needs some adjustment for the component input. I have always heard that a benefit of a 'better' TV was the ability to calibrate each input to each input to each source.

v/r,
C-F

How was your trip?

Trip was just great, 3 months to the day, and we weren't even really tired or bored. Got to meet 6 internet friends in person, which was a treat in itself, and we got to visit the entire east coast from Montreal and Toronto all the way down to Key West. We (I) drove 18,700+ miles and spent a little over $7,000. We took our time, made several itinerary changes along the way, and just had a ball. A separate trip to Cooperstown to watch our grandsons play in a tournament at Dreams Park was a special treat and we're going back next year for the younger grandson to play. We also have 2 major trips a year planned through 2011, next being to Yosemite in the fall. Retirement is all it's cracked up to be. :)

I credit RussB with helping all those in Houston. Hi Russ. ;)

Yeah...Russ is always helpful...but I really miss Werner...

Why do we accept the sorry DVR and the lousy service? We need to rise up and get Comcast to fix these issues...

Duh, to me! I don't know if I have a "better" TV (Panasonic), but you are exactly right. If I tune to each input, adjusting the TV settings apply to that input only. I had the coax/antenna and DVD inputs on vivid, the STB input on standard. Thanks for solving my "mystery".

You are talking about the internal ATSC/QAM tuner verses an external tuner going through component cables? Maybe the TV needs some adjustment for the component input. I have always heard that a benefit of a 'better' TV was the ability to calibrate each input to each input to each source.

v/r,
C-F

I've yet to figure out how to record a program while I'm already in the middle of it. Let's say I'm 15 minutes into 'Lost' and decide I want to record the entire hour. I select it from the IPG, but all I get is from that point on, not from the beginning. I thought if the program was still in the buffer that I would be able to record it from the beginning. Am I wrong or am I missing something? If this has been asked and answered in another thread, please point me in the right direction. Thanks.

I looked and didn't see a good answer to this, I realize this is from an old post, so an answer could be somewhere in the middle of this thread where my eyes glazed over, if I missed it I apologize. I am having this same issue, or something like it. Recently upgraded from an 8000 to an 8300HDC, on the old unit, if I hit record while watching a program it would record all that I watched, so if I tuned in from the beginning, i got all of the show recorded.

So far I have tried this twice with the new unit, and got a different result both times. First time we were watching an ep of NCIS, wife had to go to work so I hit record, agreed to the screens to record the hour and away it went. Later that night went to watch it and it only recorded 45 minutes, which is fine since she saw the first half hour anyway. Problem is it recorded the first 45 minutes, which is what was in the buffer when i hit record, but it didn't record the rest of the show that aired after it started recording.

The second time I was watching a concert, decided i should record it for the wife who was already deep asleep. I had viewed it since the start and could rewind all the way to the beginning, but it would only record from the point I hit record, not any of the show that was already in the buffer. I know it was set to record the entire hour, i even stopped it and setup the recording again to make sure. I even tried rewinding all the way to the begining and hitting record there, but it didn't make a difference, it still only recorded 35 minutes of the hour show.

I looked and didn't see a good answer to this.......................it didn't make a difference, it still only recorded 35 minutes of the hour show.

Been a long time since I hit Record int he middle of a program, so I have no idea what it does these days. I do know that at one time it worked fine and then it didn't after a software upgrade. Since I mostly watch only recorded stuff these days, I'll have to set up a test, unless someone else chimes in. In any event, I don't think it's anything you are doing or anything wrong with your unit, it's just the way it is at the moment.

Been a long time since I hit Record int he middle of a program, so I have no idea what it does these days. I do know that at one time it worked fine and then it didn't after a software upgrade. Since I mostly watch only recorded stuff these days, I'll have to set up a test, unless someone else chimes in. In any event, I don't think it's anything you are doing or anything wrong with your unit, it's just the way it is at the moment.

Just did it last night. It will record as much of the show (up to 60 minutes) as are on the hard-drive. If you switched channels during a commercial, you only get the last part. Now, if you PiP two channels, some strange things may happen.

tried it again today, while it was recording the list showed the recording as 32 minutes, which was how much was left when I hit record, but, after it was done recording, it changed to 54 minutes, which was how long I had been on the channel. Not sure if it added the buffer after it was done recording or if it is just trying to drive me crazy.

One segment of one of the 7-segment LED displays (numbers) is out on my 8300HD. Kind of annoying.

Any thoughts on what I can do?

Thanks,
Eph

Why not just exchange the box for another?

Why not just exchange the box for another?

Because, as I understand it, they'll replace it with an 8300HDC which doesn't work well with Navigator and external SATA boxes.

Because, as I understand it, they'll replace it with an 8300HDC which doesn't work well with Navigator and external SATA boxes.

You should be able to request an older 8300 as long as they have some returns on the shelf. It won't be new, but should still work. The problem is you will lose all your recordings. Otherwise you will just have to live with the broken display. I rarely even look at my display, so I proably wouldn't even notice a missing part.

One segment of one of the 7-segment LED displays (numbers) is out on my 8300HD. Kind of annoying.

Any thoughts on what I can do?

Thanks,
EphYou can press the "INFO" key to get the time and channel on the TV screen. You may want to go ahead and watch the recordings on the 8300HD and after you finish watching everything try to find another 8300HD.
I agree with DoubleDAZ.

You can press the "INFO" key to get the time and channel on the TV screen. You may want to go ahead and watch the recordings on the 8300HD and after you finish watching everything try to find another 8300HD.
I agree with DoubleDAZ.

I assume I'd have to watch ALL the shows, including those on my external drive, correct? The index is stored on the unit for all shows, right?

I assume I'd have to watch ALL the shows, including those on my external drive, correct? The index is stored on the unit for all shows, right?Yes. You will be able to move the external drive to your new 8300 but you won't be able to watch the programs that were recorded on it. They are box-specific. If you want to save any of them, you'll have to copy them to tape/DVD via the analog output on your old box.

Sorry about having to as this often asked question, but although I have read many posts on the subject, I just want to be sure that I will be doing the right setup between my Yamaha rxv-800/5.1 (without hdmi) and soon to arrive Panasonic p50v10.

It is my understanding that one can't connect the SA 3800 to the TV via hdmi (for video, I'm not expecting to play sound through the TV) while connecting the STB to the AVR via optical or coax cables (for surround sound though the AVR) as this will cause some kind of conflict ans things won't work right. Therefore I intend to use component cables between the STB and the TV, and to use either coax or opt cable from the STB to the AVR. (BTW, my out going cables from the AVR to the assorted speakers are RCA's, what I don't understand is how does the digital going in signal supply surround sound signals via the outgoing analog cables?). As my present SA 3800 surround/video setup to my old TV and to the Yamaha AVR works well in terms of surround sound, I would imagine that when the new HD/plasma TV is in place, I will only have to attach component cables and leave the sound supplying cables as is?

I'm sure that you see the confusing that I'm exhibiting; but I hope that you can muddle through this and help me out. Thanks.

I don't fully understan all your questions. I assume you mean SA8300. IIRC, the 8300 has only a coax digital output, no optical. I am pretty sure I had HDMI running to the TV and a coax to the AVR. However, I had so many glitches with HDMI that I threw in the towel and went back to component. I don't know what you mean by "conflict" but you should probably turn the TV speakers off. It should have an option for this.

Unless I misunderstand the surround sound question, I see no reason to change any of your AVR speaker connections.

Sorry about having to as this often asked question, but although I have read many posts on the subject, I just want to be sure that I will be doing the right setup between my Yamaha rxv-800/5.1 (without hdmi) and soon to arrive Panasonic p50v10.

It is my understanding that one can't connect the SA 3800 to the TV via hdmi (for video, I'm not expecting to play sound through the TV) while connecting the STB to the AVR via optical or coax cables (for surround sound though the AVR) as this will cause some kind of conflict ans things won't work right. Therefore I intend to use component cables between the STB and the TV, and to use either coax or opt cable from the STB to the AVR. (BTW, my out going cables from the AVR to the assorted speakers are RCA's, what I don't understand is how does the digital going in signal supply surround sound signals via the outgoing analog cables?). As my present SA 3800 surround/video setup to my old TV and to the Yamaha AVR works well in terms of surround sound, I would imagine that when the new HD/plasma TV is in place, I will only have to attach component cables and leave the sound supplying cables as is?

I'm sure that you see the confusing that I'm exhibiting; but I hope that you can muddle through this and help me out. Thanks.

Thanks, BigA. You've confirmed that my approach will be OK: Component to TV, coax to AVR. BTW, the SA 8300HD Digital Video Recorder, does have both coax and opt out.

Thanks, BigA. You've confirmed that my approach will be OK: Component to TV, coax to AVR. BTW, the SA 8300HD Digital Video Recorder, does have both coax and opt out.

Yeah, that's right. I was thinking of my DVD recorder which only has optical out such that I had to use the coax from the STB. I only remembered that I had to use coax out from the STB because my AVR only had one of each.

Sorry about having to as this often asked question, but although I have read many posts on the subject, I just want to be sure that I will be doing the right setup between my Yamaha rxv-800/5.1 (without hdmi) and soon to arrive Panasonic p50v10.

It is my understanding that one can't connect the SA 3800 to the TV via hdmi (for video, I'm not expecting to play sound through the TV) while connecting the STB to the AVR via optical or coax cables (for surround sound though the AVR) as this will cause some kind of conflict ans things won't work right. Therefore I intend to use component cables between the STB and the TV, and to use either coax or opt cable from the STB to the AVR. (BTW, my out going cables from the AVR to the assorted speakers are RCA's, what I don't understand is how does the digital going in signal supply surround sound signals via the outgoing analog cables?). As my present SA 3800 surround/video setup to my old TV and to the Yamaha AVR works well in terms of surround sound, I would imagine that when the new HD/plasma TV is in place, I will only have to attach component cables and leave the sound supplying cables as is?

I'm sure that you see the confusing that I'm exhibiting; but I hope that you can muddle through this and help me out. Thanks.

I don't fully understan all your questions. I assume you mean SA8300. IIRC, the 8300 has only a coax digital output, no optical. I am pretty sure I had HDMI running to the TV and a coax to the AVR. However, I had so many glitches with HDMI that I threw in the towel and went back to component. I don't know what you mean by "conflict" but you should probably turn the TV speakers off. It should have an option for this.

Unless I misunderstand the surround sound question, I see no reason to change any of your AVR speaker connections.

Perhapes not all 8300HDs used by a given cableco have an optical audio out, but mine does and I use it just fine. If your's only has Coax, there is nothing wrong with that.

That said, simply disconnecting your old TV and connecting your new TV should work just fine. There is no need to change anything. Using HDMI can present some problems getting the 8300 to pass the right audio to the AVR, but AFAIK many people use HDMI for video and coax/optical for audio. As BIG^^STV found out though, sometimes it's simply not worth the hassle of trying to get allthe settings right. Using Component presents no problems and is the easiest setup for many.

RCA cables from the ACR to the speakers have nothing to do with the surround logic, they simply connect the AVR to the speaker. The surround logic is in the AVR and it determines what sound goes to which speaker/speakers to give you the surround effect. Now, if you used RCA cables from the 8300 to the AVR, you wouldn't get digital audio. Perhaps that's the confusing part with discussing audi connections.

Sorry about having to as this often asked question, but although I have read many posts on the subject, I just want to be sure that I will be doing the right setup between my Yamaha rxv-800/5.1 (without hdmi) and soon to arrive Panasonic p50v10.

It is my understanding that one can't connect the SA 3800 to the TV via hdmi (for video, I'm not expecting to play sound through the TV) while connecting the STB to the AVR via optical or coax cables (for surround sound though the AVR) as this will cause some kind of conflict ans things won't work right. Therefore I intend to use component cables between the STB and the TV, and to use either coax or opt cable from the STB to the AVR. (BTW, my out going cables from the AVR to the assorted speakers are RCA's, what I don't understand is how does the digital going in signal supply surround sound signals via the outgoing analog cables?). As my present SA 3800 surround/video setup to my old TV and to the Yamaha AVR works well in terms of surround sound, I would imagine that when the new HD/plasma TV is in place, I will only have to attach component cables and leave the sound supplying cables as is?

I'm sure that you see the confusing that I'm exhibiting; but I hope that you can muddle through this and help me out. Thanks.

I have been using the same 8300HD for 5 years (actually I have 2, but that's beside the point). Over the years, I have hooked it up to 2 different plasmas and 2 different AVRs. I think I have used every port on it at one time or the other (including HDMI). I have never found a combination that DIDN'T work. I have run cables directly to the TV (for video) and to the AVR (for sound) and more recently ... the Onkyo 607 AVR is the Center of the system (not the Panny 850).

Since the 8300 only does 720p, HDMI looks about the same as Component (maybe a little better). The TV will automatically upscale it to 1080p if it can anyway. When using HMDI, there is an option in Setup that tells it how to output the sound (by HDMI along with the video ... or by Optical or Digital Coax). HDMI sometimes applies some back-channel control with the connected devices (that might not act the way you expect).

When you read that this or that doesn't work together, it largely depends on whether the AVR is the central controller or the TV is.

I would say the decision on which should be the "Center Control" should be made in this order of priority:
1. Between each device, the highest quality port is used.
2. Everything works with good looking video and proper multi-channel sound.
3. Remote can be programmed to easily control everything (on/off and switch inputs)
4. If you have to use analog component cables, how can you minimize length.

So, I've done a search and tried the recommended "hard boot" but no avail. Here's my issue:

My SA 8300HD is with the WOW cable provider. I have 13 HD movies/shows recorded currently, and use a MyDVR expander too. Everything seemed fine (percent of disk space used, 13%, is accurate, etc.) until I tried to play the movie I wanted to watch tonight (SpiderMan 3 from a December recording). The list info is there, but when I go to watch it gives me a generic Playback Channel 800 screen, period (which has a how to use "list" and "channel up/down"). After some frustration I checked the other 12 recordings and 5 of them are also "missing" although clearly listed in the list screen, with duration and record date data. All are set for "until I delete". These are neither the oldest nor newest recordings (those play fine). As i said, I then tried the hard reboot proecedures a couple of times and still the same thing. Recent recordings are there, and much older ones too. Any help is appreciated. thanks

I have been having an issue with my 8300 HDC (Time Warner Cable, Northeast Ohio) where if I press either the pause button, the replay button, or the rewind button while watching live TV, the output of the box turns blank, it loses its buffer, and I have to switch to another channel and then back to continue watching the program. The PTV OS is listed as "OS, Home Server CableCARD Edition 1.2", FLASH is "DVR1.5.3_8300HDC_LR_F.p.3701", and App(s) is "saixod v37016", as well as "compass v1.1.0b23". I typically send video to my Samsung LCD via HDMI (using a cable from monoprice), and the audio to my Yamaha AVR via optical; but I recently switched to component and coaxial to see if it made a difference -- it didn't. At any rate, it's very frustrating that the box has been behaving like this, and we've already exchanged it 4 times in the past 9 months. I have gone through the various re-initializations (Reboot, Forced Reboot, Hard Reboot, and Last Resort (Reformat)), but the symptom is never eradicated. Is there anything else I can do?

...

Now, if you used RCA cables from the 8300 to the AVR, you wouldn't get digital audio. Perhaps that's the confusing part with discussing audi connections.

Won't be using RCA cables from STB to AVR, will be using either coax or opt cables (and components to TV)...so I guess all will be well regarding surround sound and video.

... if I press either the pause button, the replay button, or the rewind button while watching live TV, the output of the box turns blank, it loses its buffer, and I have to switch to another channel and then back to continue watching the program. ... we've already exchanged it 4 times in the past 9 months. I have gone through the various re-initializations (Reboot, Forced Reboot, Hard Reboot, and Last Resort (Reformat)), but the symptom is never eradicated. Is there anything else I can do?Unfortunately, I think it may be a [stall] in the video or buffer [bits of code] - or a "corrupt" buffer and if so, it could mean that nothing will recover it.

Alternatively, there was talk of the way NAVIGATOR handles it's buffers which included the notion that sometimes the buffers are dropped. Maybe there is something there that "times out" on the buffer. Locally, we get the "Press any button to watch TV" screen-saver, but YMMV.

Treating the symptom only: you may try engaging the PIP and swapping the PIP and main screen and back again - rather than switching channels. I assume you have tried bringing up the Guide and List windows.

Preemptive measures: you could just try switching-pausing-playing when you settle on the channel you want to watch.


(Knock on wood) I only see the "blank stare" occasionally, but more often with the HDC when starting a recording. I do see a pause when moving from [Live] to [Buffered] with the pause/replay/rewind - which still makes me skeptical of the assertion that "everything is buffered".

v/r,
C-F

...The list info is there, but when I go to watch it gives me a generic Playback Channel 800 screen, period (which has a how to use "list" and "channel up/down"). After some frustration I checked the other 12 recordings and 5 of them are also "missing" although clearly listed in the list screen, with duration and record date data....

It sounds like your external hard drive is not being recognized, so you only have access to the recordings on the internal drive. It may be a sleep or a cable problem. You can verify that it is working through the information screens. If the second drive is not listed, try recycling power on the drive and see if it comes back up. This sometimes happens when the DVR reboots while the external drive is in sleep mode.

It sounds like your external hard drive is not being recognized, so you only have access to the recordings on the internal drive. It may be a sleep or a cable problem. You can verify that it is working through the information screens. If the second drive is not listed, try recycling power on the drive and see if it comes back up. This sometimes happens when the DVR reboots while the external drive is in sleep mode.

Should have thought of that, very good point. You might even have to disconnect the drive, reboot, reconnect, and so on.

It sounds like your external hard drive is not being recognized, so you only have access to the recordings on the internal drive. It may be a sleep or a cable problem. You can verify that it is working through the information screens. If the second drive is not listed, try recycling power on the drive and see if it comes back up. This sometimes happens when the DVR reboots while the external drive is in sleep mode.

Thanks. Rebooted the external too, but will try again. I'll also check the info screens but things on the list screen like "recording capacity" are correctly showing percentages based on combined capacity (I think...13% is be too low for about 25 hrs of HD, or even 16 hours, assuming the missing shows are not part of that math; with internal hd the percentage should be 80%). Will let you know. thanks

Edit: Rebooted everything, including esata cables, etc. Diag screen shows both drives fine. ?

The setup when I get my new Panny p50v10 will be SA 8300HDTV (Comcast)components to my TV and coax cable from 8300 to Yamaha rxv-800...this will be for 5.1 surround sound and no sound from TV. Question is when setting up the 8300, what sound and video settings should I use? And, are there any settings that should be used for the AVR?

I use pass through for the video, but the options might vary with the software for your STB. IIRC, the only audio option is fixed or variable (sound level). I use fixed so that the only audio level adjustment is through the AVR.

You'll have to experiment with what you like on your TV settings wrt screen sizing of SD. I like SD to fill the screen and have my Panasonic set to "full" when it gets an sd program. Some people like to leave it at 4:3 with sidebars.

The setup when I get my new Panny p50v10 will be SA 8300HDTV (Comcast)components to my TV and coax cable from 8300 to Yamaha rxv-800...this will be for 5.1 surround sound and no sound from TV. Question is when setting up the 8300, what sound and video settings should I use? And, are there any settings that should be used for the AVR?

I use pass through for the video, but the options might vary with the software for your STB. IIRC, the only audio option is fixed or variable (sound level). I use fixed so that the only audio level adjustment is through the AVR.

You'll have to experiment with what you like on your TV settings wrt screen sizing of SD. I like SD to fill the screen and have my Panasonic set to "full" when it gets an sd program. Some people like to leave it at 4:3 with sidebars.

I think the audio option being referred to is the "Audio: Digital Out" option and that should be set to "Dolby Digital".

With a new TV, I recommend using Pass-Through for video to let the TV do the scaling. I use Pass-Through with my older HDTV, but I only enable 480i, 480p, and 1080i. On my setup, I could not see a difference with 720p and the reformatting while changing channels bothered me.

There is more info in the First Post on audio and video settings.

I might be wrong, but I think those audio option might only be active when using HDMI. The poster indicated he was going to use component connections. In any event, they don't appear on my menu, only the volume fixed or variable.

I think the audio option being referred to is the "Audio: Digital Out" option and that should be set to "Dolby Digital".

With a new TV, I recommend using Pass-Through for video to let the TV do the scaling. I use Pass-Through with my older HDTV, but I only enable 480i, 480p, and 1080i. On my setup, I could not see a difference with 720p and the reformatting while changing channels bothered me.

There is more info in the First Post on audio and video settings.

I might be wrong, but I think those audio option might only be active when using HDMI. The poster indicated he was going to use component connections. In any event, they don't appear on my menu, only the volume fixed or variable.

It's up to the cableco. I use Component and I have them.

I have a SA 8300HD DVR and I know that the Cavalry CAXE 1TB (silver case) works well, as reported by users. Does anyone know if the newer CAXM 1TB (black case) is also compatible with my DVR--and without any issues?

Grateful for answers from anyone with hands-on experience.

... Preemptive measures: you could just try switching-pausing-playing when you settle on the channel you want to watch.

(Knock on wood) I only see the "blank stare" occasionally, but more often with the HDC when starting a recording. I do see a pause when moving from [Live] to [Buffered] with the pause/replay/rewind - which still makes me skeptical of the assertion that "everything is buffered".Sorry for the bad form, but knocking did not help, as we have missed Eureka! three weeks and six recordings in a row (would not pick up the later repeat either) with the HD (took the HDC out of play to turn it in), and this week it missed Mental as well. Earlier attempts generated "This channel not available", so I thought it was signal and SDV related and pruned a couple splitters and rooms in the line. Funny thing is that last night, we saw [TheAngryPenguin's] issues with the buffer on SyFy until a hard reboot, after which the buffer acted normally - but no joy with recording. Checked the software versions, which have not changed since Dec 06. Since we recently rearranged things, it may be a heat issue, which will be the next thing addressed.

v/r,
C-F

Sorry for the bad form, but knocking did not help, as we have missed Eureka! three weeks and six recordings in a row................Since we recently rearranged things, it may be a heat issue, which will be the next thing addressed.

My daughter had similar problems when she lived in El Paso 2 years ago. She is now back in NC with TWC/Navigator and hasn't complained once. I suspect TWC simply isn't maintaining their SARA-based systems and El Paso seems to be one of the worst, if not the worst. When we visited, I tried to figure things out, but never could. Sorry I'm of no help.

From what I read about using the SA8300 and the Panny V10, I was lead to believe that hdmi/coax doesn't work well for surround sound through the AVR. Well, it seems to be right, but I want to check it out.

Just got the p50V10 from Vann's. Great legitimate price and only took 5 days to go from MT to SoFL, including Sat and Sun. Didn't come double boxed, as Vann said it would, but on checking it out, all seems to be working well (started the color slide show and will be watching TV tonight with contrast and brightness down).

I hooked the STB to the TV via HDMI, sound was good and picture even better. But as I need to use my Yamaha rxv-800 for surround sound, I also hooked in a coax cable from the STB to the AVR. When I turned on the AVR, the sound for non-HD stations was of good volume and came out of the center chanel and rear speakers, but not the two mains. For HD stations, the sound was significantly diminished through the same speakers. Although this will not be my final setup, and I didn't do any setting changes to the STB as the STB was already set up for digital out (...but I will have to check on that!), is it this normal for the given conditions? I really would like this to work as I was hoping that it will allow me to view and listen to the TV (only), or watch the TV and listen to surround sound when available (mute the TV). I'm wondering if the SA8300HD was set up for digital out, things would work for the audio...probably not. Too lazy a nd too tired to check this out...will do tomorrow when I check out my component setup.

My next setup, and the one that should work (with not chance of sound from the TV), would be to use components from the STB to the TV and digital coax from the STB to the AVR. Of course, I'll be sure to set the STB to dig out/dolby digital. Comments, please.

My next setup, and the one that should work (with not chance of sound from the TV), would be to use components from the STB to the TV and digital coax from the STB to the AVR. Of course, I'll be sure to set the STB to dig out/dolby digital. Comments, please.

AFAIK, when you plug in the HDMI cable, the 8300's Audio: Digital Out changes from Dolby Digital to HDMI. I believe you simply have to change it back. When you do that, you may lose audio to the TV and will have to constantly change that setting based upon where you want the audio.

However, depending on setup, this may not always work properly. If you have to revert to Component for video, you can still get audio to the TV via L-R RCA audio cables. I had mine wired this way untilI decided to always use the AVR. I think it's still wired, but I haven't used TV audio in years.

AFAIK, when you plug in the HDMI cable, the 8300's Audio: Digital Out changes from Dolby Digital to HDMI. I believe you simply have to change it back. When you do that, you may lose audio to the TV and will have to constantly change that setting based upon where you want the audio.

However, depending on setup, this may not always work properly. If you have to revert to Component for video, you can still get audio to the TV via L-R RCA audio cables. I had mine wired this way untilI decided to always use the AVR. I think it's still wired, but I haven't used TV audio in years.

With hdmi and coax and dolby digital, not getting sound from my 2 main speakers. This was my first setup with the new 50v10, and only went to prove that hdmi and coax tot he AVR doesn't work. Tomorrow I'll try it out the right way: components and coax. BTW, coax better than r/l becasue it will give you dolby dig.

BTW, coax better than r/l because it will give you dolby dig.

Gee, I didn't know that. ;)

Seriously, of course I know that. However, you said you are using Coax to the AVR, so you can't use it again to the TV. Therefore, you have to use either Optical (if your TV has an input) or L-R RCA, unless your DRV has 2 Coax Outs.

Okay, you've made me curious. I have several HDMI cables laying around and I am going to try it- HDMI to the TV and coax to the AVR. Unfortunately my AVR is at the Sony repair facility (under warranty thankfully) so it will be a couple of weeks. In any event, you might be better off with component anyway. The HDMI caused me enough grief to give up on them.

BTW, I loved the boxes my Panasonics came in from Vanns. So easy to handle and open.

With hdmi and coax and dolby digital, not getting sound from my 2 main speakers. This was my first setup with the new 50v10, and only went to prove that hdmi and coax tot he AVR doesn't work. Tomorrow I'll try it out the right way: components and coax. BTW, coax better than r/l becasue it will give you dolby dig.

Gee, I didn't know that. ;)

Seriously, of course I know that. However, you said you are using Coax to the AVR, so you can't use it again to the TV. Therefore, you have to use either Optical (if your TV has an input) or L-R RCA, unless your DRV has 2 Coax Outs.

Sorry for being so pedantic, 2xDAZ...I should have known better.

Anyway, let me restate what's happening. Coax: Stb to AVR (no hdmi on avr), HDMI: STB to TV. With this set up, no full surround sound as no sound out of the 2 main speakers, and a lower volume of sound when in an HD broadcast. No intent to run coax to TV. As I believe it has been said, hdmi and coax can't be run in this manner at the same time because of sound issues. Today I will run the setup as originally intended: Components from STB to TV, Coax from STB to AVR. With the first setup I was hoping against hope that it would work so that I wouldn't have to use the AVR for sound unless surround sound ws being broadcasted.

Sorry for being so pedantic, 2xDAZ...I should have known better.

Anyway, let me restate what's happening. Coax: Stb to AVR (no hdmi on avr), HDMI: STB to TV. With this set up, no full surround sound as no sound out of the 2 main speakers, and a lower volume of sound when in an HD broadcast. No intent to run coax to TV. As I believe it has been said, hdmi and coax can't be run in this manner at the same time because of sound issues. Today I will run the setup as originally intended: Components from STB to TV, Coax from STB to AVR. With the first setup I was hoping against hope that it would work so that I wouldn't have to use the AVR for sound unless surround sound ws being broadcasted.

No problem, just trying to make sure we're on the same page. The Component to TV/Coax to AVR should work fine unless there is something wrong with the Coax on the DVR or AVR. The L-R RCA suggestion was only to get audio to the TV so you don't have to use the AVR all the time, that is still one of your goals, is it not? Like I said, I had the same goal way back when, but have since opted for AVR digital audio full-time.

"No problem, just trying to make sure we're on the same page. The Component to TV/Coax to AVR should work fine unless there is something wrong with the Coax on the DVR or AVR. The L-R RCA suggestion was only to get audio to the TV so you don't have to use the AVR all the time, that is still one of your goals, is it not? Like I said, I had the same goal way back when, but have since opted for AVR digital audio full-time"

Yep, we are on the same page. The L/R suggestion (in combo with components to TV)was originally misunderstood...a very good suggestion.

My daughter had similar problems when she lived in El Paso 2 years ago. She is now back in NC with TWC/Navigator and hasn't complained once. I suspect TWC simply isn't maintaining their SARA-based systems and El Paso seems to be one of the worst, if not the worst. Wen we visited, I tried to figure things out, but never could. Sorry I'm of no help.
Sorry for the untimely follow-up -- I was half-expecting an e-mail notification from my post, as I know for sure that I selected the "Instant Notification" option, but it was never delivered. At any rate... If the root cause is a "[stall] in the video or buffer [bits of code] - or a "corrupt" buffer", would heat potentially be the culprit? The reason I ask is that while the box is well ventilated, it does seem somewhat warm. Unfortunately, I spec'd out my HMDI cable to be absolutely no longer than necessary, so moving the box outside of my entertainment center to an even more-ventilated area is currently impossible. Quite honestly, this particular issue was never apparent until a recent update that TWC pushed out a few months ago (where they seemed to have only made changes to the OnDemand stuff and preparations for SDV). I've tried the PIP thing, and even tried zeroing both tuners unto Music Choice channels for at least 30 minutes just to clear out the bits in the buffer, but that hasn't seemed to help. At this point, I'm not sure what else to do other than perhaps break open the box and run SpinRite on the HD, but I have reservations in doing so because from what I have read, it's a no-no. I am definitely open to other suggestions!

My hook up: SA 83000HDC (via comcast), coax dig cable out to AVR (Yamaha rxv 800), HDMI to TV (Panasonic p50V10), STB audio set to digital (format set to HDMI/DVI auto) so that I can use my AVR's surround sound system (setting STB audio to hdmi will give sound through the TV, but not the AVR). All these audio systems work fine.

My problem: In the past, with this set up, I have been able to select a music channel and be able to listen to it while the TV is off and the STB and AVR are on. When I set up my new TV, this doesn't work anymore. After getting the music channel I want, music does come from the AVR, BUT when I turn the TV off, the music stops within 1-2 seconds. This is consistent, and occurs even when I just use the STB (with audio set to digital) and the AVR. The only thing I can think of is that the when this all worked with my old TV, The STB was a 8300HD, not and 8300HDC???

My hook up: SA 83000HDC (via comcast), coax dig cable out to AVR (Yamaha rxv 800), HDMI to TV (Panasonic p50V10), STB audio set to digital (format set to HDMI/DVI auto) so that I can use my AVR's surround sound system (setting STB audio to hdmi will give sound through the TV, but not the AVR). All these audio systems work fine.

My problem: In the past, with this set up, I have been able to select a music channel and be able to listen to it while the TV is off and the STB and AVR are on. When I set up my new TV, this doesn't work anymore. After getting the music channel I want, music does come from the AVR, BUT when I turn the TV off, the music stops within 1-2 seconds. This is consistent, and occurs even when I just use the STB (with audio set to digital) and the AVR. The only thing I can think of is that the when this all worked with my old TV, The STB was a 8300HD, not and 8300HDC???

I would suspect the TV. If it's what I think it is, this is just another problem with HDMI. The TV does not "completely" turn off the HDMI Out and the DVR gets an HDCP error. If you had another TV connected, you would see the error on the screen. It really doesn't matter what the channel is, you lose audio to the AVR when you turn off the TV. You can check this by:

1. Turn everything off.
2. Disconnect the HDMI cable from the DVR.
3. Turn DVR and AVR on.
4. Do you hear the audio?

If this is what the problem is, some folks have solved it with an HDMI switcher that effectively kills the HDMI power when the TV is turned off. This way the DVR doesn't "think" there is a non-compliant device connected and continues to pass audio. Some used the AVR (HDMI from DVR to AVR and HDMI from AVR to TV) to do basically the same thing (not all AVRs work though). Others switched to Component/L-R RCA Audio connections (DVR to TV).

HDMI is not simply a single-cable connection. There is communication taking place that tells the DVR that an HDCP-compliant device is connected and what audio the device is capable of decoding. The HDMI standard is fairly loose and implemented in slightly different ways causing any number of problems.

Good reply, Dave. Before I read your message, I did a little experimentation.

1. Unhook hdmi from cable box, leave coax to avr...everything plays through the AVR...as it should, thus implicating the hdmi handshake thingy
2. Replace hdmi with component cables from stb to tv (also L/R RCAs from stb to tv, keeping coax from stb to avr), Format at Passthrough and Audio at Digital...everything works as it should, including turning off tv and playing sound through avr...again implicating hdmi handshake.

So, I guess the bottom line is sticking with components if I want avr sound without the tv on. But, then again, I'm goiing to see what Comcast has to say about their programming the stb.

So, I guess the bottom line is sticking with components if I want avr sound without the tv on. But, then again, I'm goiing to see what Comcast has to say about their programming the stb.

That's always worth a shot, but in this case, I don't think you'll get anywhere. This problem has been around since HDMI first came up and the DVR software has changed many times. Some brand/model TVs simply do not turn off "all" power, probably because of the way their "stand-by" circuitry is designed.

Is my 8300 sound system screwed up? I bought a new Sony AV receiver a couple of months ago and after a while I noticed it got no sound on a channel that I infrequently watched. Then I got no sound on the NBC channel. I also noticed that some commercial sound dropped out on channels where the sound was otherwise fine. The 8300 was connected to the AV by digital coax and component cables to the TV. Sound output via two channel RCA plugs to the TV was perfectly fine.

So I sent the AV to Sony and told them it was bad. They said nothing was wrong and sent it back. I argued and argued.

But then I thought I would try HDMI and see what would happen. I go no sound with just running HDMI from the 8300 to the AV and AV to the TV. BUT, if I also connected the digital coax cable from the 8300 to the AV, I got sound on ALL channels. If I pulled the HDMI cable, sound went away on all channels. It was as if the coax and HDMI were co-dependent. Note my 8300 software has no audio options other than volume level fixed or variable.

I definitely do not want to trade my 8300 in. I had to jump through hoops to get the one I have as my cable company is now only buying Moxi boxes.

Anyone have any ideas?

Anyone have any ideas?

Well, I would try a hard reboot, the one where you press/hold the Power button when plugging power back in. It's almost as if you are stuck on Audio: Digital Out = HDMI.

Well, I would try a hard reboot, the one where you press/hold the Power button when plugging power back in. It's almost as if you are stuck on Audio: Digital Out = HDMI.

Thanks, I tried that early on with no change. So it must be more of a hardware problem than software problem I guess. I am am right that I should be able to get audio via HDMI only or audio via coax or optical only, aren't I?

That's always worth a shot, but in this case, I don't think you'll get anywhere. This problem has been around since HDMI first came up and the DVR software has changed many times. Some brand/model TVs simply do not turn off "all" power, probably because of the way their "stand-by" circuitry is designed.


Just spoke with the Concierge. They feel that the problem is related to "Viera Link," which I don't believe that I am using at the moment. They say that when one turns off the tv (that is connected to the stb via hdmi), all functions are turned off. I find it hard to believe that turning off the TV will prevent the sound signals from the STB to the AVR??? They suggest that I turn off Viera Link (its default is ON). Problem now is that I've replaced the hdmi with components and have tucked everything back in place...thus making the testing of HDMI a big PITA. Since I now get the music that I want (without the TV being on), I think I'll just sit for a while before I go back and retry the HDMI setup (without VL).

I got no sound with just running HDMI from the 8300 to the AV and AV to the TV.
I don't know if you get sound with just the HDMI to the AVR. I suspect it might depend on the setup.

BUT, if I also connected the digital coax cable from the 8300 to the AV, I got sound on ALL channels.
This makes sense if I'm right inmy comment above.

If I pulled the HDMI cable, sound went away on all channels.
If you pulled the HDMI from the AVR, the DVR still thinks there is a device attached, so no sound. If you could see the TV, there might have been an HDCP error notice.

I am right that I should be able to get audio via HDMI only or audio via coax or optical only, aren't I?
Again, it all depends on the setup and HDMI implementation. There are too many variables. But, you should get audio via Coax/Optical with Component because there are no HDCP issues to contend with.

I re-read your OP. I missed it at first, but are you saying the setup worked fine when you initially got the Sony AVR? And then the audio problem started with one channel and gradually spread to all channels? When you got the AVR back from Sony did you reconnet Component/Coax or is that when you tried HDMI?

This doesn't seem to make much sense unless there is a faulty Coax cable/connection or something like that. Since you know the audio functions themsleves seem to work, I'd look for a connection problem, either bad cable or loose connector. I'd start all over with a reboot to clear everything. Then I'd reconnect with Component and Coax, start testing channels, wiggling cables, etc. If you want to play with HDMI again, I'd connect the DVR directly to the TV, not through the AVR.

You should have done what I do. I leave all the wires there and just pull the HDMI loose from the TV if I want to go component. I have every possible connection imaginable including a DVD recorder with multiple connection going in and out. The area behind my TV is unimaginable with tons of wires. My wife just looks at it and shakes her head.

Just spoke with the Concierge. They feel that the problem is related to "Viera Link," which I don't believe that I am using at the moment. They say that when one turns off the tv (that is connected to the stb via hdmi), all functions are turned off. I find it hard to believe that turning off the TV will prevent the sound signals from the STB to the AVR??? They suggest that I turn off Viera Link (its default is ON). Problem now is that I've replaced the hdmi with components and have tucked everything back in place...thus making the testing of HDMI a big PITA. Since I now get the music that I want (without the TV being on), I think I'll just sit for a while before I go back and retry the HDMI setup (without VL).

Dave, I've pretty much tried everything. I tried both optical and coax with the same bad result on two channels. I don't know when it started, but it got worse. The first I noticed it was a little watched channel so I don't know whether it was bad from the get go. Then I discovered NBC was bad. Then NBC was okay, but CBS was out. Yes, I tried the component when I got it back from Sony, hoping against hop I guess, then as a last gasp went to HDMI. So, something is definitely wrong with either the AV unit or the STB.

I'm not all that familiar with HDMI. I just assumed that it was all one needed for both sound and video.

At this point I guess I will just stick with using the HDMI set up as it seems to work. I just hate the extreme lag when switching from an SD channel to an HD channel and vice versa. The Sony AV is fairly cheap and it just doesn't seem worth arguing with Sony anymore although I think I caused so much trouble that they would probably send a new unit. But, I'd be mighty embarrassed if it turns out it was STB all along.

Thanks for trying to help. If you think of anything else post it.

I don't know if you get sound with just the HDMI to the AVR. I suspect it might depend on the setup.


This makes sense if I'm right inmy comment above.


If you pulled the HDMI from the AVR, the DVR still thinks there is a device attached, so no sound. If you could see the TV, there might have been an HDCP error notice.


Again, it all depends on the setup and HDMI implementation. There are too many variables. But, you should get audio via Coax/Optical with Component because there are no HDCP issues to contend with.

I re-read your OP. I missed it at first, but are you saying the setup worked fine when you initially got the Sony AVR? And then the audio problem started with one channel and gradually spread to all channels? When you got the AVR back from Sony did you reconnet Component/Coax or is that when you tried HDMI?

This doesn't seem to make much sense unless there is a faulty Coax cable/connection or something like that. Since you know the audio functions themsleves seem to work, I'd look for a connection problem, either bad cable or loose connector. I'd start all over with a reboot to clear everything. Then I'd reconnect with Component and Coax, start testing channels, wiggling cables, etc. If you want to play with HDMI again, I'd connect the DVR directly to the TV, not through the AVR.

Sure doesn't make sense to me, working on some channels and not others with Component while using HDMI with Coax works on all channels. I assume you still have the HDMI going to AVR then to TV. You might cut down on the lag some by going from DVR directly to TV, but then you might run up against other HDMI problems, especially since you have no way to change the Audio: Digital Out settings.

Me? This would bug me enough to try to get the cableco to give me another 8300 to test. I don't think there is anything wrong with the AVR. I assume the Sony didn't replace another AVR. BTW, what is wrong with the Moxi's? My sister had an SD Moxi the last time I visited and it seemed okay, even had some guide options I wish my 8300 with SARA had.

I'll try the HDMI direct to TV, but I got a hunch the sound will screw up again.

I had a Moxie in between 8300's before they had a major upgrade of the software. When I had it, it was just flat horrible, but I understand it is much better now. I think it also provides a much last problematic external storage capability. I'll probably stick with the 8300 until something goes goes bad.

Sure doesn't make sense to me, working on some channels and not others with Component while using HDMI with Coax works on all channels. I assume you still have the HDMI going to AVR then to TV. You might cut down on the lag some by going from DVR directly to TV, but then you might run up against other HDMI problems, especially since you have no way to change the Audio: Digital Out settings.

Me? This would bug me enough to try to get the cableco to give me another 8300 to test. I don't think there is anything wrong with the AVR. I assume the Sony didn't replace another AVR. BTW, what is wrong with the Moxi's? My sister had an SD Moxi the last time I visited and it seemed okay, even had some guide options I wish my 8300 with SARA had.

I'll try the HDMI direct to TV, but I got a hunch the sound will screw up again.
Not sure it's even worth it, especially if it's any hassle at all. I'm surprised no one else had any ideas. Don't know how many read this thread anymore though.

Just got comcast Hd last month and of course I got a used 8300.

It seems that if I am recording any program, NBC HD, CBS HD will stutter and freeze up every few seconds. sometimes other stations also but pretty constantly these two. If I stop recording then they play correctly
I originally thought it was a problem with these stations but just recently realized that it was happening when I was recording something else

I have done some resets but if it helped it did not last long

Thanks

I accidentally hit the red "c" button twice while watching a show and a pop-up menu came up on the bottom of the screen. I selected some icons and it displayed the local weather and headlines and new movie releases on the bottom of the screen. Anyone else notice this?

I accidentally hit the red "c" button twice while watching a show and a pop-up menu came up on the bottom of the screen. I selected some icons and it displayed the local weather and headlines and new movie releases on the bottom of the screen. Anyone else notice this?

Yes, it's a new Cablevision specific feature that works on all of their boxes called iO shortcuts.

On the 8300 DVR side we Cablevision subs who also get our internet through them will have the ability to remotely schedule our DVR's. It is in the process of being rolled out over the next 2 weeks. We go to the TV listings part of the www.optimum.net home page and we can search for programs using actors, titles or other keyword and when you select the program it will give you the option to record in on your DVR if it airs in the next 7 days. Some systems already have it, I thought my system was getting it this morning but I don't have it yet.

Yes, it's a new Cablevision specific feature that works on all of their boxes called iO shortcuts.

On the 8300 DVR side we Cablevision subs who also get our internet through them will have the ability to remotely schedule our DVR's. Thanks for that info - The remote scheduling is working here in Northern NJ. It even let's me select which DVR to record on.

Hey guys, what's the most reliable DVR Extender (external hard drive) these days?

Apricorn? WD? Someone else?

I tried an Apricorn a while back, but it died... so I'm not sure about trying another one.

BTW, I've got an 8300HD with Comcast. Thanks!

Hey guys, what's the most reliable DVR Extender (external hard drive) these days?

Apricorn? WD? Someone else?

I tried an Apricorn a while back, but it died... so I'm not sure about trying another one.

BTW, I've got an 8300HD with Comcast. Thanks!

Suggest you ask this in the SATA thread (link in first post), better thread to get answers.

Dave,
Is there anything we can do to improve the situation of weekly scheduled programming which starts late, or ends later than on-the-hour (or half hour)?

Every week we've been scheduling the prior (or later) show allowing us to "catch" the entire desired program...Is this what everyone does? If there is nothing better we can do, has Cox (Phoenix, SARA same as you) commited to fix the IPG?

Do you have any idea if Tivo has similar program guide problems? How about Windows MCE?
Thanks, Joe

Dave,
Is there anything we can do to improve the situation of weekly scheduled programming which starts late, or ends later than on-the-hour (or half hour)?

Every week we've been scheduling the prior (or later) show allowing us to "catch" the entire desired program...Is this what everyone does? If there is nothing better we can do, has Cox (Phoenix, SARA same as you) commited to fix the IPG?

Do you have any idea if Tivo has similar program guide problems? How about Windows MCE?

Cox is committed to release a new IPG, but I have no specific ETA. I do not know the current status of try2way which, AFAIK, will be required for any new IPG. I sent off an email earlier today asking just these questions, but it's been months since I've talked to anyone at Cox, so I may not get any reply. :(

Anyway, as everyone knows, the problem with the current IPG is that modifications to start/stop times only hold when a program is scheduled more frequently than once a week. Anything less and the start/stop times are changed to reflect those in the IPG when the recording placeholder changes to a scheduled recording once the IPG is updated.

There are 2 workarounds that I know of. One, as you mentioned, is to record programs before and/or after the desired program. The other is to make a list of the offenders and modify those scheduled recordings each week. However, the real solution is not so much an IPG "fix" as it is for all channels to use the same clock and star/stop programs on time.

This wasn't a problem back when commercials covered the time between programs. Now, however, many channels run such commercials before the program ends so that the end of one and the start of the next flow without interruption. I find that Syfy, USA, and TNT are the biggest offenders for me. Of course, there really is no incentive for anyone to fix the problem, so the only real alternative is the DVR software solution we'd all like to see.

AFIAK, Tivo does not have the same problem, partly because their IPG includes 2 weeks of data and partly because, I suspect, their programmers didn't code the system to reset the start/stop times of scheduled recordings. We all know how poorly SARA was designed. I don't totally blame the programmers, I blame whomever wrote the software design specs, but any really good programmer would have seen the problem and raised the issue even though it wasn't their job. Of course, they could have raised the issue and been over-ridden. :)

I do not know anything about the Tivo HD or Windows MCE.

Dave,
Is there anything we can do to improve the situation of weekly scheduled programming which starts late, or ends later than on-the-hour (or half hour)?

Every week we've been scheduling the prior (or later) show allowing us to "catch" the entire desired program...Is this what everyone does? If there is nothing better we can do, has Cox (Phoenix, SARA same as you) commited to fix the IPG?

Do you have any idea if Tivo has similar program guide problems? How about Windows MCE?
Thanks, JoeIn addition to Dave's suggestions, I go to the
"Scheduled Recordings" page every week and add 3 minutes to most of the cable programs that I record. The cable programs seem to run a little longer than the times listed in the electronic program guide. For sporting events, I add 1 hour.

I use to record the later (following) show, but I realized there was about 20 seconds that were missing between the end of the first show and the beginning of the following show. Most of the time, the 20 missing seconds were the preview of the next week's episode of the first show recorded.

Dave,
Appreciate the quick and thorough reply. Good to know Im not the only one suffering, the networks U mentioned have also plagued us trying to watch thier new summer programming.

Do U get the actual start/stop times by monitoring (last week's) program "live" as it starts, or can U pull the info in advance from the web (TitanTV, etc.)?

Thanks again, Joe

Hello,

Brand new user -- with a question re: the Cablevision SA 8300.

I tape, unfortunately, far too much -- currently, on VHS. I'm looking to upgrade to the Cablevision DVR. Ideally, I'd like to record a show and then burn it to a DVD (as otherwise, with my schedule, I'll quickly run out of space on the DVR).

Here is what I want to do -- not sure about the feasibility and/or equipment I need...

I'd like to record a show. Then I'd like to burn that show(s) onto a DVD, for later viewing on a regular DVD player.

This way, when I get way behind in my watching, I won't have stacks of VHS tapes; I'll have a far more compact pile....

From the user guide, there's a composite cable from the 8300 out to a DVD recorder (so it says) - but the user guide also says DVD recording is not supported -- a true conundrum.

Thanks!

Do U get the actual start/stop times by monitoring (last week's) program "live" as it starts, or can U pull the info in advance from the web (TitanTV, etc.)?

I don't use TitanTV for this because their times are the same as the IPG. Like Russ, I mostly just pad either the start or stop time or both by a minute or so. But, since I record some back to back, I actually pad the stop time of one and adjust the start time of the next so I don't miss something during that 20 seconds Russ mentioned. I will try to record into the first commercial and then start the next at that time. Most times I really don't care because I don't watch previews for the next week anyway. I've learned which of my programs have something worth catching and which simply go to credits/previews. I used to really hate to miss even a single second, but I've gotten over that. :)

I've been doing what you want for years. When you say the guide says it is not supported, do you mean the booklet?

If you have something recorded on the DVR, Hit the DVR button on your remote and then hit the program you have recorded. A series of options will appear: play, erase, etc. One of the options should be "record to VCR". That's what you want. Hit that and it will begin sending the signal to the DVD recorder (it obviously doesn't know the difference between a VCR and DVD recorder) via the composite out. Note you will not be able to record in HD. As a reference, go to the first page of this thread for all info on using the 8300.

You can test this out on you VCR before you buy a DVD recorder. Just check and see if you are getting a signal to the VCR.

Hello,

Brand new user -- with a question re: the Cablevision SA 8300.

I tape, unfortunately, far too much -- currently, on VHS. I'm looking to upgrade to the Cablevision DVR. Ideally, I'd like to record a show and then burn it to a DVD (as otherwise, with my schedule, I'll quickly run out of space on the DVR).

Here is what I want to do -- not sure about the feasibility and/or equipment I need...

I'd like to record a show. Then I'd like to burn that show(s) onto a DVD, for later viewing on a regular DVD player.

This way, when I get way behind in my watching, I won't have stacks of VHS tapes; I'll have a far more compact pile....

From the user guide, there's a composite cable from the 8300 out to a DVD recorder (so it says) - but the user guide also says DVD recording is not supported -- a true conundrum.

Thanks!

I don't use TitanTV for this because their times are the same as the IPG. Like Russ, I mostly just pad either the start or stop time or both by a minute or so. But, since I record some back to back, I actually pad the stop time of one and adjust the start time of the next so I don't miss something during that 20 seconds Russ mentioned. I will try to record into the first commercial and then start the next at that time. Most times I really don't care because I don't watch previews for the next week anyway. I've learned which of my programs have something worth catching and which simply go to credits/previews. I used to really hate to miss even a single second, but I've gotten over that. :)I agree with this, especially the last sentence, except for 2 shows. I try to watch all of Lost and 24 including the previews.

but the user guide also says DVD recording is not supported -- a true conundrum.
Yes, it is a conundrum and also inaccurate. The point is they don't support direct DVD recording. However, as Big explained, there are ways to accomplish what you want, though not in HD.

As a reference, go to the first page of this thread for all info on using the 8300.
The First Post does include instructions on making anamorphic DVDs. However, they may not work with your version of the software, so a little experimentation maybe needed.

If all you really need though is to move content to a DVD, the "Copy To VCR" feature is a simple task and will get you what you want. Even there though, you should try one to see if it's good enough for you.

Just a thought. Using the VCR would allow you to put more than one program on a tape. You could, for example, set aside a tape for a given show and then record 6-8 hours of that show on a single tape. You'd simply record the first hour, set the tape aside until next week, and then record the next hour, repeating the process for subsequent weeks. I don't know if you can do the same with DVD recorders, but you already have the VCR and tapes, so you might want to try this to see how it works before you invest in a DVD recorder.

DVD recorders can work the same way. When I am using mine just for portability to watch on another tv and not permanently save, I use DVD R/W media. You can take it out, put it back all you want up to a max of 8 hours. If you are watching it using the same DVD, you don't even have to finalize the disc and can remove one recording at a time to free up space. After watching, you can erase it and use it again. It's much more handy to use a DVD as you can skip ahead easier and faster and go to other recordings easier.


Just a thought. Using the VCR would allow you to put more than one program on a tape. You could, for example, set aside a tape for a given show and then record 6-8 hours of that show on a single tape. You'd simply record the first hour, set the tape aside until next week, and then record the next hour, repeating the process for subsequent weeks. I don't know if you can do the same with DVD recorders, but you already have the VCR and tapes, so you might want to try this to see how it works before you invest in a DVD recorder.

DVD recorders can work the same way. When I am using mine just for portability to watch on another tv and not permanently save, I use DVD R/W media. You can take it out, put it back all you want up to a max of 8 hours. If you are watching it using the same DVD, you don't even have to finalize the disc and can remove one recording at a time to free up space. After watching, you can erase it and use it again. It's much more handy to use a DVD as you can skip ahead easier and faster and go to other recordings easier.

Thanks for the clarification, I was hoping that was the way it was, but figured I should ask.

BTW. Are there Blu-Ray DVD players that can also record standard DVDs for this purpose or is that asking too much?

Yes, it is a conundrum and also inaccurate. The point is they don't support direct DVD recording. However, as Big explained, there are ways to accomplish what you want, though not in HD.


Big & DDaz...

I don't have the 8300 yet OR the DVD recorder -- I was holding off on both to ensure this would work.

Let me confirm this:

You're saying I can definitely 1) Record two programs simultaneously to the DVR; 2) when I want, I can copy them over to a DVR-R/W in my DVD recorder; and 3) I can then watch that TV program on a DVD player.

If I can do that - for certain - using the SA 8300 HD on Cablevision's system - I'm golden! I don't care about not being able to record in HD. Is there anything the cable company can do to thwart this operation?

Re: the conundrum - the link on Cablevision's site explains there's a composite cable out to a DVD recorder (I'd included the link, but I'm unable to post links, apparently).

On Cisco's site, the question about recording programs from the DVR to a DVD recorder is asked - specifically - about the 8000 (but, the page definitely makes it seem as though the answer applies to both)

Well, I won't guarantee it because one can never tell for sure. However, I know my Scientific Atlanta SA8300 booklet says you can do this and I have done it for years. I see no reason why your cable company wouldn't want you to do this. I've never read anything about any cable company disabling this feature.

Big & DDaz...

I don't have the 8300 yet OR the DVD recorder -- I was holding off on both to ensure this would work.

Let me confirm this:

You're saying I can definitely 1) Record two programs simultaneously to the DVR; 2) when I want, I can copy them over to a DVR-R/W in my DVD recorder; and 3) I can then watch that TV program on a DVD player.

If I can do that - for certain - using the SA 8300 HD on Cablevision's system - I'm golden! I don't care about not being able to record in HD. Is there anything the cable company can do to thwart this operation?

Re: the conundrum - the link on Cablevision's site explains there's a composite cable out to a DVD recorder (I'd included the link, but I'm unable to post links, apparently).

On Cisco's site, the question about recording programs from the DVR to a DVD recorder is asked - specifically - about the 8000 (but, the page definitely makes it seem as though the answer applies to both)

I've never heard of this. Occasionally I research Bluray in the hope that a standalone recorder will become available in the US. I suppose they could come out with one that only records regular DVDs but that seems unlikely. Apparently the whole DVD recorder business is a bust because so few people want them because apparently it is too "hard" for the average person to deal with. I guess for many people the advent of the DVR negated the need for a DVD recorder.

Myself, I'm sort of a hobbyist/collector who saves some of my team's games and tons of classic movies so the recorder has been great.

Thanks for the clarification, I was hoping that was the way it was, but figured I should ask.

BTW. Are there Blu-Ray DVD players that can also record standard DVDs for this purpose or is that asking too much?

You're saying I can definitely 1) Record two programs simultaneously to the DVR; 2) when I want, I can copy them over to a DVR-R/W in my DVD recorder; and 3) I can then watch that TV program on a DVD player.

If I can do that - for certain - using the SA 8300 HD on Cablevision's system - I'm golden! I don't care about not being able to record in HD. Is there anything the cable company can do to thwart this operation?
Like Big, I cannot guarantee, but the only thing a cableco could do, I think, is disable the "Copy To VCR' function and I have never heard anyone say they did this. If you know someone with an 8300, simply ask them to see if that option is available for a recording. If it is, then you are indeed "golden".

specifically - about the 8000

AFAIK, the 8000 was a different animal and I don't know if it had the Copy To VCR function, especially when that question might have been asked. However, I still think they were talking about recording direct to DVD or copying to DVD in HD.

In any event, even "without" the Copy To VCR function, you could still "play" the recording and record it over the Composite or S-Video connection. The difference is you can't watch something else while it is playing. With the Copy To VCR function, you can watch live TV while it is recording to DVD.

I've never heard of this.
I didn't think so.

Like Big, I cannot guarantee, but the only thing a cableco could do, I think, is disable the "Copy To VCR' function and I have never heard anyone say they did this. If you know someone with an 8300, simply ask them to see if that option is available for a recording. If it is, then you are indeed "golden".


Reply post, so I can have my 3 - so I can post a link in the next one...

Like Big, I cannot guarantee, but the only thing a cableco could do, I think, is disable the "Copy To VCR' function and I have never heard anyone say they did this. If you know someone with an 8300, simply ask them to see if that option is available for a recording. If it is, then you are indeed "golden".

I know - from my conversations with Cablevision - that the "Copy to VCR" function *IS* still available.

Here is the link from Cablevision's site - explaining how to do this:

http://optimum.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/optimum.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=1517&p_created=1122323818&p_sid=Co76HqGj&p_accessibility=0&p_redirect=&p_lva=&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPSZwX3NvcnRfYnk9JnBfZ3JpZHNvcnQ9JnBfcm93X2NudD0 1LDUmcF9wcm9kcz0mcF9jYXRzPSZwX3B2PSZwX2N2PSZwX3NlYXJjaF90eXB lPWFuc3dlcnMuc2VhcmNoX25sJnBfcGFnZT0xJnBfc2VhcmNoX3RleHQ9ZHZ yIHZjcg**&p_li=&p_topview=1

So, that would make it seem that the DVDrecorder option is available too?

(One last question/concern - I've read that DVD recorders can be *finicky* about recording, due to copyrights. Does that pertain to TV shows, as well?)_

I know - from my conversations with Cablevision - that the "Copy to VCR" function *IS* still available.

Here is the link from Cablevision's site - explaining how to do this:

http://optimum.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/optimum.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=1517&p_created=1122323818&p_sid=Co76HqGj&p_accessibility=0&p_redirect=&p_lva=&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPSZwX3NvcnRfYnk9JnBfZ3JpZHNvcnQ9JnBfcm93X2NudD0 1LDUmcF9wcm9kcz0mcF9jYXRzPSZwX3B2PSZwX2N2PSZwX3NlYXJjaF90eXB lPWFuc3dlcnMuc2VhcmNoX25sJnBfcGFnZT0xJnBfc2VhcmNoX3RleHQ9ZHZ yIHZjcg**&p_li=&p_topview=1

So, that would make it seem that the DVDrecorder option is available too?

Those instructions are correct. You will not find any specific DVD recorder option, it's just that whatever you connect via Composite will record using the "Copy To VCR" option. You could connect a PC as long as it had the correct input connection.

(One last question/concern - I've read that DVD recorders can be *finicky* about recording, due to copyrights. Does that pertain to TV shows, as well?)_

AFAIK, this only applies when trying to record in HD using Component or HDMI connections. Then, DRM rules apply and not all programming will be able to be recorded. This is to keep pure digitial copies from being pirated.

Those instructions are correct. You will not find any specific DVD recorder option, it's just that whatever you connect via Composite will record using the "Copy To VCR" option. You could connect a PC as long as it had the correct input connection.



That is truly great news!

A few final questions...

When copying from the DVR to the DVD - it copies in 'real-time?' It doesn't burn at a faster rate, correct?

Can I set this up to be done remotely?

Here's the crux of the issue - as I mentioned, I tape A LOT, and then, I'm able to watch A LOT sporadically; but it's quite likely I'd blow right by the 100 hours on the DVR. So, I want to offload them to DVD, so I can watch in my leisure.

If it tapes at the same rate - that's not great; but it'll do (beats having 20-30 VCR tapes sitting around...) But, can I select a number of shows (say 4-5) to be burned to the DVD while I'm at work, for example? If I can do that - then I'll be fine...Or, do I have to record one; stop it; record the next one; set it again, etc...

Copy to VCR will only do one recording at a time and in real time only. You have to be there to set each one.

blech - ok...that's a slight negative...


On a completely different page, then...

How does a DVD recorder with hard drive work then? Is that what's not compatible with the 8300? Is it compatible with Cablevision's set-top non-DVR box?

A DVD recorder with an HD simply first records whatever you input to the HD. Then you can transfer this material to a DVD. The HD comes in handy if you want to edit the material.

One other thought that might help you. What material are you recording? If some or all of this material is basic cable stuff, you could record it directly to a disk on your DVD recorder, i.e. just set it up like you would a VCR. I do a lot of recording that way and then watch it on another DVD player/TV. That way you can do multiple scheduled recordings. Just split the cable input, one to the DVD recorder, one to the SA8300.

blech - ok...that's a slight negative...


On a completely different page, then...

How does a DVD recorder with hard drive work then? Is that what's not compatible with the 8300? Is it compatible with Cablevision's set-top non-DVR box?

One other thought that might help you. What material are you recording? If some or all of this material is basic cable stuff, you could record it directly to a disk on your DVD recorder, i.e. just set it up like you would a VCR. I do a lot of recording that way and then watch it on another DVD player/TV. That way you can do multiple scheduled recordings. Just split the cable input, one to the DVD recorder, one to the SA8300.


Right - it's all basic cable stuff.

I'm wondering if I even NEED the 8300 - since I don't have it yet. My suspicion, though, is the DVD recorder with hard drive can only record one show at a time (not two, like the SA8300 can...)

Well, I think your issues are almost resolved. You should do some research on what the capabilities of a DVD with HD are. There might be some with dual tuners. Mine doesn't have an HD so I am not that familiar with them. Go to something like Amazon and see what's on the market then see what the specs are.

Right - it's all basic cable stuff.

I'm wondering if I even NEED the 8300 - since I don't have it yet. My suspicion, though, is the DVD recorder with hard drive can only record one show at a time (not two, like the SA8300 can...)

Right - it's all basic cable stuff.

I'm wondering if I even NEED the 8300 - since I don't have it yet. My suspicion, though, is the DVD recorder with hard drive can only record one show at a time (not two, like the SA8300 can...)

I think it might help if you'd outline your setup a bit. For example, do you split the cable so you can record one program on the VCR while watching another on the TV or does everything go through the VCR?

If all you are recording is the same stuff you'd put on your VCR, then, no, you do not need the 8300. All you have to do is swap the VCR for a DVD recorder, same connections, same procedures, etc.

The advantage to the 8300, besides HD, is the capability to record 2 programs while watching a previous recording. There is also a non-HD version of the 8300, but I don't know if Cablevision uses those.

Then, too, depending on how much Cablevision charges for the 8300 (it's $12/mo for SD and $18/mo for HD here, plus a $5/mo service fee), you might even be able to buy 2 DVD recorders and save money in the long run.

I don't know anything about the HDD versions of DVD recorders, but it would seem kind of silly if you couldn't set them up to burn multiple programs to the DVD from the HDD. I'd suspect you could also manage your recordings and put episodes of the same program on the same DVD.

There is also a non-HD version of the 8300, but I don't know if Cablevision uses those.

Then, too, depending on how much Cablevision charges for the 8300....

Cablevision does offer the SA8300 in both SD and HD versions but they cost the same. Box and remote is $6.75 (for any of their digital boxes DVR or not) the DVR has an additional $9.95 monthly DVR service charge. So $16.70 for the SA8300. All of us Cablevision subs are supposed to have the ability to remotely schedule our SA8300 DVR by September 1.

I think it might help if you'd outline your setup a bit. For example, do you split the cable so you can record one program on the VCR while watching another on the TV or does everything go through the VCR?

If all you are recording is the same stuff you'd put on your VCR, then, no, you do not need the 8300. All you have to do is swap the VCR for a DVD recorder, same connections, same procedures, etc.

The advantage to the 8300, besides HD, is the capability to record 2 programs while watching a previous recording. There is also a non-HD version of the 8300, but I don't know if Cablevision uses those.

Then, too, depending on how much Cablevision charges for the 8300 (it's $12/mo for SD and $18/mo for HD here, plus a $5/mo service fee), you might even be able to buy 2 DVD recorders and save money in the long run.

I don't know anything about the HDD versions of DVD recorders, but it would seem kind of silly if you couldn't set them up to burn multiple programs to the DVD from the HDD. I'd suspect you could also manage your recordings and put episodes of the same program on the same DVD.



I do split my cable - one goes to the VCR and one goes to the set-top (non-DVR) cable box. The VCR also goes to the TV (TV has multiple inputs).

I know a non-HDD DVD recorder won't work - from what I was told...let's say, I wanted to record from 8-9 on Channel 4, 9-10 on Channel 7 and 10-11 on Channel 4; and then, the next day, from 9-10 on Channel 5; I was told that the DVD/R-W would 'restart' from the beginning each time and re-record over itself.

So, basically - if I'm understanding, a HDD-DVD recorder *basically* is just like an 8300 (or a TIVO), only with a built-in DVD recorder...that *would* be basically all I'd need, I imagine...

Chris

DVD recorders can work the same way. When I am using mine just for portability to watch on another tv and not permanently save, I use DVD R/W media. You can take it out, put it back all you want up to a max of 8 hours. If you are watching it using the same DVD, you don't even have to finalize the disc and can remove one recording at a time to free up space. After watching, you can erase it and use it again. It's much more handy to use a DVD as you can skip ahead easier and faster and go to other recordings easier.

I know a non-HDD DVD recorder won't work - from what I was told...let's say, I wanted to record from 8-9 on Channel 4, 9-10 on Channel 7 and 10-11 on Channel 4; and then, the next day, from 9-10 on Channel 5; I was told that the DVD/R-W would 'restart' from the beginning each time and re-record over itself.
It appears that Big disagrees with this assertion, at least with his setup. Perhaps he'll comment some more to make sure we are all on the same page.

So, basically - if I'm understanding, a HDD-DVD recorder *basically* is just like an 8300 (or a TIVO), only with a built-in DVD recorder...that *would* be basically all I'd need, I imagine...
It would appear so. I may have to look into one of these because I do not want to pay Cox any more money.

I do split my cable - one goes to the VCR and one goes to the set-top (non-DVR) cable box. The VCR also goes to the TV (TV has multiple inputs).
Then you already know just how to hook up the DVD recorder and everything should work the same way. Since you don't care about HD, you'd only need an 8300 to record 2 programs at the same time. I don't know how much HDD DVD recorders cost or how big the HDD is, but this looks like the best solution for your needs.

BTW, I did a quick check on Amazon for prices and they seem to run the gamut from fairly inexpensive for just a basic recorder without a tuner to more for one with a digital tuner and then quite a bit more to throw in an HDD. I didn't see any with dual-tuners and, since you don't have a cbale box, you need to make sure you get a recorder with a cable-ready tuner. The best deal I saw appeared to be an out of stock Magnavox with HDD (http://www.amazon.com/Magnavox-HDD-amp-Recorder-%2528H2160MW9%2529/dp/B0020ZW8P8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1251474005&sr=8-1).

You were told wrong. The DVD recorder works just like a VCR. It has a schedule feature that lets you select the day/time/channel you want to record; daily, weekly, one-time, etc. for multiple programs. It will record until full, just like a VCR. At lowest quality it will hold 8 hours. It never records over itself until you reformat the disc once you are done viewing what you have recorded.

I suppose that a DVD recorder is all you "need". However, I couldn't live without a DVR myself. It has a lot more functionality than just a DVD recorder.


I do split my cable - one goes to the VCR and one goes to the set-top (non-DVR) cable box. The VCR also goes to the TV (TV has multiple inputs).

I know a non-HDD DVD recorder won't work - from what I was told...let's say, I wanted to record from 8-9 on Channel 4, 9-10 on Channel 7 and 10-11 on Channel 4; and then, the next day, from 9-10 on Channel 5; I was told that the DVD/R-W would 'restart' from the beginning each time and re-record over itself.

So, basically - if I'm understanding, a HDD-DVD recorder *basically* is just like an 8300 (or a TIVO), only with a built-in DVD recorder...that *would* be basically all I'd need, I imagine...

Chris

I suppose that a DVD recorder is all you "need". However, I couldn't live without a DVR myself. It has a lot more functionality than just a DVD recorder.
I must say I agree with this comment. Of course, without knowing more about lifestyle, it's hard to say if a DVR would suffice in this case. It sounds to me like viewing opportunites come and go in spurts, relatively long periods where there is no time to watch TV followed by periods where one can catch up with some or all of it. Plus, there appears to be a need to be able to watch on mulitple TVs, not just the one connected to the DVR. To each his own I guess. I will be interested in what model DVD recorder is purchased and if it does the trick.

BTW, I did a quick check on Amazon for prices and they seem to run the gamut from fairly inexpensive for just a basic recorder without a tuner to more for one with a digital tuner and then quite a bit more to throw in an HDD. I didn't see any with dual-tuners and, since you don't have a cbale box, you need to make sure you get a recorder with a cable-ready tuner. The best deal I saw appeared to be an out of stock Magnavox with HDD (http://www.amazon.com/Magnavox-HDD-amp-Recorder-%2528H2160MW9%2529/dp/B0020ZW8P8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1251474005&sr=8-1).


I have a cable box - but, I would run the cable from the wall into the DVD recorder. Do I *need* a tuner?

This is something that has long confused me. With Cablevision - for example - in my home, there are 4 TVs hooked up to the wall cable. Two of the TVs have cable boxes and two don't. In the cases where there are cable boxes, the cable signal has been spliced - one goes to the VCR, which then goes to the TV; the other goes to the cable box, and then to the TV. For the two TVs that *aren't* hooked up to cable boxes, the cable just goes to the VCR, then the TV.

So - I cannot simply hook up any DVD recorder w/ hard drive as I would a VCR...I need to ensure it has a tuner (or a dual tuner?)

FWIW, I was unaffected by the changeover to digital signal earlier this summer - even the TVs that go from the wall to the VCR to the TV didn't see any interruption.

Chris

I have a cable box - but, I would run the cable from the wall into the DVD recorder. Do I *need* a tuner?

This is something that has long confused me. With Cablevision - for example - in my home, there are 4 TVs hooked up to the wall cable. Two of the TVs have cable boxes and two don't. In the cases where there are cable boxes, the cable signal has been spliced - one goes to the VCR, which then goes to the TV; the other goes to the cable box, and then to the TV. For the two TVs that *aren't* hooked up to cable boxes, the cable just goes to the VCR, then the TV.

So - I cannot simply hook up any DVD recorder w/ hard drive as I would a VCR...I need to ensure it has a tuner (or a dual tuner?)

FWIW, I was unaffected by the changeover to digital signal earlier this summer - even the TVs that go from the wall to the VCR to the TV didn't see any interruption.

Chris

The TVs and VCR you have are cable-ready. That means their tuners can receive basic and expanded basic cable service without needing a box. The DTV transition only affected over-the0air signals received vai antenna.

Like VCRs, DVD recorders came/come in several flavors.

There were/are those designed simply to copy from a camcorder or VCR via a Video In connection. These cannot receive signals from an antenna or cable.

Some may have had an Antenna In to receive local channels with an antenna or an RF In to receive signals from a cable box. With VCRs like this, the cable box had to be set for Ch 3 or 4 and then you needed a VCR Commander-type device to change channels on the cable box in order to record different programs on different channels.

Then there are those, like your VCR, with a cable-ready tuner that can receive signals from an antenna or cable with or without a box. This is the model you want.

Just make sure you check to make sure whatever you has the cable-ready tuner so you can just remove the VCR and connect the recorder in it's place. Check out this model from Wal-Mart (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=4810683). Look down at the specs for the TV Tuner. This is the minimum you need for what you want to do. It's probable that any model you are considering already meets this requirement, just make sure you know what you are getting.

In the cases where there are cable boxes, the cable signal has been spliced - one goes to the VCR, which then goes to the TV; the other goes to the cable box, and then to the TV.

The cable boxes are only needed so you can receive more than the basic and expanded basic channels, such as PPV channels, digital/HD channels, and premium movie channels, like HBO. If you don't watch any of those, you really don't need any cable boxes as long as all your TVs can get signals direct from the cable.

Just make sure you check to make sure whatever you has the cable-ready tuner so you can just remove the VCR and connect the recorder in it's place. Check out this model from Wal-Mart (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=4810683). Look down at the specs for the TV Tuner. This is the minimum you need for what you want to do. It's probable that any model you are considering already meets this requirement, just make sure you know what you are getting.


So, this vcr from Walmart: http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=10104532 also has ONE tuner - and would be sufficient to replace a VCR...however, if I wanted the ability to record two programs simultaneously (like a DVR) it would need to have TWO tuners...that's what you're saying?

The cable boxes are only needed so you can receive more than the basic and expanded basic channels, such as PPV channels, digital/HD channels, and premium movie channels, like HBO. If you don't watch any of those, you really don't need any cable boxes as long as all your TVs can get signals direct from the cable.This is changing. Comcast is in the process of converting most of its channels from analog to digital including basic and expanded basic. This will require either a DTA Converter box or a more expensive set top box for most channels except the local channels and other channels selected by the cable company which will also be broadcast in analog. I think the other cable providers will also do this.

This is changing. Comcast is in the process of converting most of its channels from analog to digital including basic and expanded basic. This will require either a DTA Converter box or a more expensive set top box for most channels except the local channels and other channels selected by the cable company which will also be broadcast in analog. I think the other cable providers will also do this.

I assume if one has a newer piece of equipment with a QAM tuner, one wouldn't need a converter box or STB. Is this correct?

So, this vcr (you meant dvd) from Walmart: http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=10104532 also has ONE tuner - and would be sufficient to replace a VCR...however, if I wanted the ability to record two programs simultaneously (like a DVR) it would need to have TWO tuners...that's what you're saying?

Yes, that is what I'm saying.

This unit also has a digital tuner, so you can receive your locals with an antenna and potentially get better quality than you will with cable for those channels. Read the reviews, if you haven't, and you'll get more info. From the quick check I did, this is probably the unit I would get, not that that means much.

The biggest advantages to a DVR are the 2 tuners and the program guide that makes recording easier. But, if all you want is a VCR-like recorder with an HDD, this one looks mightly good to me. Cox here charges $12 for an SD DVR plus $5 for the service. At $17/mo, I could pay for this unit in 14 months. In fact, I'm now thinking of getting 2, one for the bedroom and one for my daughter to go along with 2 new LCDs. I don't even care about the DVD recording portion.

I assume if one has a newer piece of equipment with a QAM tuner, one wouldn't need a converter box or STB. Is this correct?

If all one needs is local channels, then, yes. It's unknown what other channels will remain unencrypted in the long run. You could end up with just 2-22 at some point.

This is changing. Comcast is in the process of converting most of its channels from analog to digital including basic and expanded basic. This will require either a DTA Converter box or a more expensive set top box for most channels except the local channels and other channels selected by the cable company which will also be broadcast in analog. I think the other cable providers will also do this.

Absolutely, but that applies with the VCR he has as well as the DVD recorder he wants to get. Whatever he would have to do for the VCR, he will have to do for the DVD. I assume these converters will be free or real cheap.

I assume if one has a newer piece of equipment with a QAM tuner, one wouldn't need a converter box or STB. Is this correct?I am not sure if that is correct. I think the FCC recently ruled that inexpensive DTAs could unencrypt the QAM channels inside the DTA instead of having to use seperable security. If the cable providers take advantage of this, they could encrypt the QAM channels so a converter box or STB could be required.

The biggest advantages to a DVR are the 2 tuners and the program guide that makes recording easier. But, if all you want is a VCR-like recorder with an HDD, this one looks mightly good to me. Cox here charges $12 for an SD DVR plus $5 for the service. At $17/mo, I could pay for this unit in 14 months. In fact, I'm not thinking of getting 2, one for the bedroom and one for my daughter to go along with 2 new LCDs. I don't even care about the DVD recording portion.


Yeah - it looks good to me too...Cablevision charges about $10 extra a month; but, even still...this would work better. If I can find a DVD recorder with 2 tuners, I'd be golden.

Do the DVRs still just take ONE cable line in though (and, internally split the signal to the 2 tuners) or do you need two cable lines into the DVR?

If there is such a DVD with two tuners, it would only take one cable connection, much like a DVR only requires one. There's a thread on AVS about DVD recorders. I suggest that you go there and ask your questions about DVD recorders with an HDD there inasmuch as those trying to help you here are not that familiar with them.

Yeah - it looks good to me too...Cablevision charges about $10 extra a month; but, even still...this would work better. If I can find a DVD recorder with 2 tuners, I'd be golden.

Do the DVRs still just take ONE cable line in though (and, internally split the signal to the 2 tuners) or do you need two cable lines into the DVR?

Yeah - it looks good to me too...Cablevision charges about $10 extra a month; but, even still...this would work better. If I can find a DVD recorder with 2 tuners, I'd be golden.
If you do find one, I think you might find it expensive. Be careful though, some sites advertise dual-tuners when all they mean is an OTA tuner and cable-ready tuner, not the same thing.

When looking at prices, don't forget to look for both the hardware fee and the recording service fee. I think someone said Cablevision's recording fee alone was $9.95/mo. Here it is $5, but we pay more for the hardware. The point is you have to compare total cost to compute how long before it pays for itself.

Do the DVRs still just take ONE cable line in though (and, internally split the signal to the 2 tuners) or do you need two cable lines into the DVR?

One cable line. BTW, the term dual-tuner doesn't mean there are 2 separate physical tuners. It simply means there is circuitry inside that allows 2 different programs to be recorded at the same time. Also, you can usually playback a recording while you are recording something else. So even with this single-tuner unit, you can still record something while watching another recording.

Yes, that is what I'm saying.

In fact, I'm *not* thinking of getting 2, one for the bedroom and one for my daughter to go along with 2 new LCDs. I don't even care about the DVD recording portion.

(Assume you meant "now" not "not") Dave, with that set up are you going to lose HD? Will the recorder record and play back in HD?

There's a thread on AVS about DVD recorders. I suggest that you go there and ask your questions about DVD recorders with an HDD there inasmuch as those trying to help you here are not that familiar with them.

I agree, they might be able to pinpoint a better model, etc., and this is getting pretty far off-topic for this thread. :)

(Assume you meant "now" not "not") Dave, with that set up are you going to lose HD? Will the recorder record and play back in HD?

Thanks, that was a typo and I fixed it.

Yes, I will lose HD, but I don't have HD on those sets now, so no harm done. They will both be in bedrooms and I'm just not interested in paying Cox another $46 ($23 times 2) for HD DVRs in those rooms for the relatively few times anyone will really watch in there. My daughter doesn't care about HD for her soaps and things (they aren't in HD anyway) and I can watch the occassional series episode in SD if it means some peace and quiet. My daughter and 3-year old granddaughter live with us now, and while that's truly a blessing, there are going to be times after the fall seasons starts when the main viewing area will be rather rowdy. When I watch TV, I watch TV whereas my wife and daughter only half watch, if you know what I mean. :)

Absolutely, but that applies with the VCR he has as well as the DVD recorder he wants to get. Whatever he would have to do for the VCR, he will have to do for the DVD. I assume these converters will be free or real cheap.The converters will be free for the first and maybe the second and any more will be cheap but this may vary with the cable system. I think a couple of years ago the FCC changed the type of tuner that new VCRs and DVD recorders must use. If they have a tuner it must be digital. This will alter the way they can be used.

If there is such a DVD with two tuners, it would only take one cable connection, much like a DVR only requires one. There's a thread on AVS about DVD recorders. I suggest that you go there and ask your questions about DVD recorders with an HDD there inasmuch as those trying to help you here are not that familiar with them.


I was going to start a new thread -- then, I went to Best Buy yesterday, and finally made a decision (when it seemed like nothing else would do what I was trying to accomplish).

Due to copyrights and limits on the DVD recorders, etc., I'm going to continue recording via VCR, and then, I'll purchase a VCR-to-DVD recorder with tuner. I can record, effectively, three VCR tapes to DVD every day, and thus, I'll reduce my "pile" of VCR tapes (which is, ultimately, my primary goal). Plus, I'll have a DVD recorder WITH tuner, should I decide to move to that method in the future.

My only concern was the fact that the clerks told me the DVD-RWs had a "two-hour capacity" - when that isn't apparently true -- they have a variable capacity, depending upon recording quality (like VCR tapes). That was the only remaining concern I had.

So, although we got WELL off the topic of SA8300, I thank you all for your help -- I'm sure I'll be changing my methodology eventually....I just need technology to catch up to me :)

Due to copyrights and limits on the DVD recorders, etc........

Ok, now you have my interest. Just what did Best Buy tell you about copyrights and limits??????

And don't worry about being OT, we can handle a few more posts (given that no one else is posting about anything). :)

Also, you're usually better off on AVS finding a thread that (kind of) fits your question rather than starting a new thread. Even if it's the wrong thread, liek this one, you'll get some answers and/or pointers to a better thread where the "experts" are.

Ok, now you have my interest. Just what did Best Buy tell you about copyrights and limits??????

And don't worry about being OT, we can handle a few more posts (given that no one else is posting about anything). :)

Also, you're usually better off on AVS finding a thread that (kind of) fits your question rather than starting a new thread. Even if it's the wrong thread, liek this one, you'll get some answers and/or pointers to a better thread where the "experts" are.



Fair 'nuff...

BB told me that "some" TV shows are copyright protected, and there's no way to know until you try to tape them (and they don't).

"Limits" was the wrong word; I should've opted for "Limitations" -- I meant, specifically, how the DVRs can only record one show at a time to a DVD; and BB doesn't even sell a DVR w/ Hard Drive.

So, those things led me to think that the best option was one where I could 1) reduce the # of VCR tapes I currently have; and 2) continue to record the way I *know* works, while still (in a roundabout way) accomplishing my end-result (having shows on DVD).

The only change I made to my initial post was - instead of getting the Panasonic recorder w/ tuner; I'm going to get the Sony recorder w/o tuner - two reasons: 1. The Panasonic is $300 and the Sony is $160; and 2. neither of the Best Buy recorders w/ tuner got good reviews. Anywhere. So, it limits me slightly, but - since I'm continuing to record on VCR anyway, the recorder will continue to get use.

I'm only going to Best Buy b/c I celebrated my 40th birthday a few weeks ago, and ended up with nearly $300 in gift cards....

Ugh..

BB told me that "some" TV shows are copyright protected, and there's no way to know until you try to tape them (and they don't).
I figured that was what it was about. For future reference, AFAIK, while what they said is technically true, whatever you can record on your VCR, you can record on your DVD recorder as long as you use the same Cable In connection. Copyright (DRM if you want to read up) only comes into play when you start using digital connections like HDMI and quite possibly the digital OTA tuner.

"Limits" was the wrong word; I should've opted for "Limitations" -- I meant, specifically, how the DVRs can only record one show at a time to a DVD; and BB doesn't even sell a DVR w/ Hard Drive.
True (I thought we said that) and fair enough.

So, those things led me to think that the best option was one where I could 1) reduce the # of VCR tapes I currently have; and 2) continue to record the way I *know* works, while still (in a roundabout way) accomplishing my end-result (having shows on DVD).
Hey, at least you have a lot better understanding of things than you had before. At least now you know what you're getting and why. :)

The only change I made----------------the recorder will continue to get use.
Can't argue the logic.

I'm only going to Best Buy b/c I celebrated my 40th birthday a few weeks ago, and ended up with nearly $300 in gift cards.....
Funny, that's when I go there too these days. :D

I've recorded every channel of programming including premium channels to DVD. There are no limitations.

You do know that with your present VCR and a plain DVD recorder you can transfer your tapes to DVD, don't you? No need to buy a combo unit.

Well, if you have a BB card I guess you have to use it on something. However, better buys are available over the internet including the always reliable Amazon. I've bought both my DVD recorder from internet sellers.

Given what you said you wanted to use the recorder for, I think you are making a big mistake not getting a recorder with a tuner. Sure, just for transferring you tapes, it will do. But in the long run don't you want to record to the DVD and watch later? You'd need a tuner. Come to think of it, are you sure they make a DVD recorder without a tuner? That makes little sense, but I guess it is possible.

Fair 'nuff...

BB told me that "some" TV shows are copyright protected, and there's no way to know until you try to tape them (and they don't).

"Limits" was the wrong word; I should've opted for "Limitations" -- I meant, specifically, how the DVRs can only record one show at a time to a DVD; and BB doesn't even sell a DVR w/ Hard Drive.

So, those things led me to think that the best option was one where I could 1) reduce the # of VCR tapes I currently have; and 2) continue to record the way I *know* works, while still (in a roundabout way) accomplishing my end-result (having shows on DVD).

The only change I made to my initial post was - instead of getting the Panasonic recorder w/ tuner; I'm going to get the Sony recorder w/o tuner - two reasons: 1. The Panasonic is $300 and the Sony is $160; and 2. neither of the Best Buy recorders w/ tuner got good reviews. Anywhere. So, it limits me slightly, but - since I'm continuing to record on VCR anyway, the recorder will continue to get use.

I'm only going to Best Buy b/c I celebrated my 40th birthday a few weeks ago, and ended up with nearly $300 in gift cards....

Ugh..

I've recorded every channel of programming including premium channels to DVD. There are no limitations.

You do know that with your present VCR and a plain DVD recorder you can transfer your tapes to DVD, don't you? No need to buy a combo unit.

Well, if you have a BB card I guess you have to use it on something. However, better buys are available over the internet including the always reliable Amazon. I've bought both my DVD recorder from internet sellers.

Given what you said you wanted to use the recorder for, I think you are making a big mistake not getting a recorder with a tuner. Sure, just for transferring you tapes, it will do. But in the long run don't you want to record to the DVD and watch later? You'd need a tuner. Come to think of it, are you sure they make a DVD recorder without a tuner? That makes little sense, but I guess it is possible.



Well - now you're causing me to rethink everything :)

They do make DVD recorders w/o tuners - and I don't know why. But, for half the price and the fact that the Panasonic and LG got such horrid ratings, and the Sony got great ones, I'm okay with spending less money on the unit.

Eventually, I'll buy a DVD recorder with HD - so I can offload to DVD at my leisure...but, those need to come down in price. I'd rather spend $140 now, for something that *will* work - even with limitations; than $300 on something that may work, and may be useful in the future...

You do know that with your present VCR and a plain DVD recorder you can transfer your tapes to DVD, don't you? No need to buy a combo unit.
A combo unit does have to advantage of being able to do the recordings while the current VCR is being used to record something else. Plus, it could be located in a separate room and provide an DVD playback option in that room. Not sure of the price difference or what BB offers.

Well, if you have a BB card I guess you have to use it on something. However, better buys are available over the internet including the always reliable Amazon. I've bought both my DVD recorder from internet sellers.
Yeah, I've over-paid in order to use a gift card too. Unless you need something else from BB, this is as good a use as any I guess.

Given what you said you wanted to use the recorder for, I think you are making a big mistake not getting a recorder with a tuner. Sure, just for transferring your tapes, it will do. But in the long run don't you want to record to the DVD and watch later? You'd need a tuner. Come to think of it, are you sure they make a DVD recorder without a tuner? That makes little sense, but I guess it is possible.
I don't know which model Sony recorder is being considered here, but the VX560, the only one currently available on Sony's site, does not have a tuner and requires an STB in order to record from cable or sat. The process would be to record on the current VCR, transfer the tape to the Sony, and copy it to DVD separately.

The one caution I have is to make sure you can actually record multiple tapes to a single DVD. This Sony has a One-Touch dubbing feature that will simply copy 1 tape to 1 DVD (or vice versa). I didn't go into the User's Guide to see if you can manually record mulitple tapes, but since the unit supports 2-8 hr recording, I assume you can. However, it could be that if you want to use 8-hour mode, the tape has to be 8 hours too. Might want to read the User's Guide on the precise process before you buy.

They do make DVD recorders w/o tuners - and I don't know why. But, for half the price and the fact that the Panasonic and LG got such horrid ratings, and the Sony got great ones, I'm okay with spending less money on the unit.
As I indicated above, you are correct regarding tuners.

Eventually, I'll buy a DVD recorder with HD - so I can offload to DVD at my leisure...but, those need to come down in price. I'd rather spend $140 now, for something that *will* work - even with limitations; than $300 on something that may work, and may be useful in the future...
The limiting factor here seems to be Best Buy because I gave you a link to a unit with HDD at Walmart for $230. I, on the otherhand, am looking for recorders to put in other rooms so I can record/view different programs from what I record on my main DVR. Since you do not want to retire your VCR, will be satisfied with the limitations of the Sony, and don't need something in other rooms, I see nothing wrong with your approach to use the gift cards and get what you can use from BB. It's not what I'd do, but then I don't need to spend $300 worth of gift cards. :)

Due to copyrights and limits on the DVD recorders, etc.....

It's been a while since I bought my Toshiba DVD recorder, but there are other threads on this very topic and I'm almost positive that some brands were much more problematic with copyright issues than others!!!

I've been very satisfied with the minimal copyright problems with my Toshiba.

I know it's off-topic, but as an interesting aside, I'm now with D* and I was surprised when some channels refused to allow me to burn DVDs until I replaced the HDMI from my satellite box to the TV with component cables.

I have an SA8300HD with SARA software, and the DVR feature was recently turned on. If I have recorded a program and start to play it back later but don't finish watching it, is there a way to resume playback at the stopping point a day or two later? I find that I have to fast-forward through the entire saved program to get back to where I'd left off.

Thanks for your help!

You would get a better quality recording if you record directly to DVD rather than recording to tape then transferring to DVD. DVD's have better resolution than videotape.

Depends. If you start a playback of another recording, no. If you turn of the 8300 while not on the playback channel, no. If you leave the 8300 on the entire time, yes. If you turn off the 8300 while on the playback channel, yes, but you must never change channels to two consecutive non-playback channels. That's the way my software works anyway. It's kind of poor that the software doesn't allow permanent, multiple bookmarks, but one learns to live with it.

I have an SA8300HD with SARA software, and the DVR feature was recently turned on. If I have recorded a program and start to play it back later but don't finish watching it, is there a way to resume playback at the stopping point a day or two later? I find that I have to fast-forward through the entire saved program to get back to where I'd left off.

Thanks for your help!

It's kind of poor that the software doesn't allow permanent, multiple bookmarks, but one learns to live with it.

Our version of SARA on Cablevision has permanent, multiple bookmarks. It's available, your cableco just needs to upgrade to it.

LOL! I have Charter. It'll be a cold day in hell. Actually I think they have only been buying Moxies so I suspect they are not interested in any 8300 upgrades.

Our version of SARA on Cablevision has permanent, multiple bookmarks. It's available, your cableco just needs to upgrade to it.

Our version of SARA on Cablevision has permanent, multiple bookmarks. It's available, your cableco just needs to upgrade to it.
time warner:eek:

Depends. If you start a playback of another recording, no. If you turn of the 8300 while not on the playback channel, no. If you leave the 8300 on the entire time, yes. If you turn off the 8300 while on the playback channel, yes, but you must never change channels to two consecutive non-playback channels. That's the way my software works anyway. It's kind of poor that the software doesn't allow permanent, multiple bookmarks, but one learns to live with it.If you follow all the restrictions make sure you press play on the playback channel even if it looks like there is no picture.

Yeah, I've over-paid in order to use a gift card too. Unless you need something else from BB, this is as good a use as any I guess.


Back to the drawing board.

Showed up at BB with my gift cards *and* the 10% coupon they'd sent me in the mail.

And...they're sold out of the SONY recorder; none left in ANY stores. They did have an "open box" item - but nothing else: no manual, no cables, no remote...

On the positive side, I can now purchase the recorder from anywhere (probably getting one WITH a tuner for the same price as the one w/o at Best Buy).

On the negative side, I have no idea what I'm going to do with $300 in Best Buy gift cards now! (I suppose I *could* buy video games, if necessary - at least, new, they're the same price everywhere...)

Ugh...I hate gift cards for this very reason -- just give me cash, since I probably know the best place to get the best deal!

Regifting? Or perhaps using them to buy birthday and Christmas presents for others?

Good luck with your purchase. Hope you have visited the DVD recorder threads on the AVS Forum.

Back to the drawing board.

Showed up at BB with my gift cards *and* the 10% coupon they'd sent me in the mail.

And...they're sold out of the SONY recorder; none left in ANY stores. They did have an "open box" item - but nothing else: no manual, no cables, no remote...

On the positive side, I can now purchase the recorder from anywhere (probably getting one WITH a tuner for the same price as the one w/o at Best Buy).

On the negative side, I have no idea what I'm going to do with $300 in Best Buy gift cards now! (I suppose I *could* buy video games, if necessary - at least, new, they're the same price everywhere...)

Ugh...I hate gift cards for this very reason -- just give me cash, since I probably know the best place to get the best deal!

Hope you have visited the DVD recorder threads on the AVS Forum.


Heading there tonite...

And...they're sold out of the SONY recorder; none left in ANY stores. They did have an "open box" item - but nothing else: no manual, no cables, no remote...
Did you try bestbuy.com? Gift certs should be good there too.

Ugh...I hate gift cards for this very reason -- just give me cash, since I probably know the best place to get the best deal!

I generally do Wal-Mart gift cards because everyone I know shops there for at least some stuff. My grandsons now have Pre-paid Visa cards and we put money on those for them. That way they can buy whatever wherever.

Back to the drawing board.

And...they're sold out of the SONY recorder; none left in ANY stores. They did have an "open box" item - but nothing else: no manual, no cables, no remote...



Make sure you go to the DVD Recorder forums...I think SONY was often mentioned as being prone to copyright problems, but it's been a while since I visited there......

The best gift cards I found were at gifts.com. You buy a gift card and give the recipient the link to it, then they exchange it for a gift card from one of the following merchants of their choice:

A.J. Wright
AMC Theatres
Applebee's
Aquarium Restaurant
Baby Gap
Bahama Breeze®
Banana Republic
BananaRepublic.com
Barnes & Noble Booksellers
Barnes & Noble.com
Bass Pro Shops
Black Angus Steakhouse
Brookstone.com
Cabela's.com
Cadillac Authentic Mexican Restaurant
Chart House
Cheesecake Factory
Chili's
Courtyard by Marriott
Crate and Barrel
Crutchfield.com
CVS
Darden Restaurants
Dick's Sporting Goods.com
Drs. Foster & Smith
Edwards Theatres
F.Y.E. Music, Movies, Games and More
Fandango.com
Gap
Gap Kids
Gap Maternity
Gap.com
GapBaby.com
GapKids.com
GapMaternity.com
Grotto
H&M
HomeGoods
iTunes
J.Crew
Kemah Boardwalk
Kohl's
L.L.Bean.com
La Griglia
Landry's Seafood House
Landrys Restaurants
Lands' End.com
LongHorn® Steakhouse
Lord & Taylor
Macy's
Macys.com
Marriott
Marriott Vacation Club Int'l (rentals only)
Marshalls
Morton's The Steakhouse
Muer Seafood Restaurants
NASCAR.com
NFLShop.com
NHL.com
Nickelodeon.com
Nike
Old Navy
OldNavy.com
Olive Garden®
Omaha Steaks.com
On the Border Mexican Grill
Overstock.com
P.F. Chang's China Bistro
Panera Bread
Pei Wei
Pesce
Piperlime
Piperlime.com
Pottery Barn
Pottery Barn Kids
Pottery Barn Teen
Red Door Spas
Red Lobster®
Red Robin
Regal Entertainment Group Theatres
Renaissance Hotels & Resorts
Residence Inn
Romano's Macaroni Grill
Ruby Tuesday
Saltgrass Steak House
Sears
Sephora.com
Shoebuy.com
Spa & Salon Wish
Spa Finder
Sports Authority.com
Staples
Starbucks Coffee
Sunglass Hut
T.G.I. Friday’s
T.J. Maxx
Texas Roadhouse
The Crab House
TownePlace Suites
United Artists Theatres
Vic and Anthony's Steakhouse
West Elm
Williams-Sonoma
Williams-Sonoma Home
Willie G's Seafood and Steakhouse
Wine.com

Okay while we are a light year away from topic, I was just thinking, whatever happened to just a check or cash? I even sent one of my kids money via Paypal the other day, instant and free. Gift cards are simply a business ploy that we've all fallen into like lemmings.

Did you try bestbuy.com? Gift certs should be good there too.



I generally do Wal-Mart gift cards because everyone I know shops there for at least some stuff. My grandsons now have Pre-paid Visa cards and we put money on those for them. That way they can buy whatever wherever.

Okay while we are a light year away from topic, I was just thinking, whatever happened to just a check or cash? I even sent one of my kids money via Paypal the other day, instant and free. Gift cards are simply a business ploy that we've all fallen into like lemmings.
I use gift cards for 2 reasons; I can charge the gift and use their money for 25 days and I get 1% cash back. I pay for all this in the prices they charge for merchandise, so I might as well take advantage of it. Also, checks are a pain, you have to cash them and they can get lost (remember I used to deliver mail). Cash is a no-go because my grandsons live in North Carolina and I am in Arizona. Plus, the kids really like using the card and tracking how much they have left via the internet. etc. One of my grandsons even checked his balance on his Blackberry, something he bought for himself BTW. Darned kids have more toys than I do. :)

Back to the drawing board.

Showed up at BB with my gift cards *and* the 10% coupon they'd sent me in the mail.

And...they're sold out of the SONY recorder; none left in ANY stores. They did have an "open box" item - but nothing else: no manual, no cables, no remote...

On the positive side, I can now purchase the recorder from anywhere (probably getting one WITH a tuner for the same price as the one w/o at Best Buy).

On the negative side, I have no idea what I'm going to do with $300 in Best Buy gift cards now! (I suppose I *could* buy video games, if necessary - at least, new, they're the same price everywhere...)

Ugh...I hate gift cards for this very reason -- just give me cash, since I probably know the best place to get the best deal!
You should look at the following post:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17096828#post17096828

I set my 8300hd to 1080i fixed and currently have 13 hours of saved recordings. Recording Spaced Used: 29%. This would give me around 40 hours of HD recordings? It is the original hard drive, how is this possible?

I set my 8300hd to 1080i fixed and currently have 13 hours of saved recordings. Recording Spaced Used: 29%. This would give me around 40 hours of HD recordings? It is the original hard drive, how is this possible?

Are all the recordings from HD channels? Even though you have the box upconvert, a show recorded from a SD channel will still not take up the space of a true HD recording.

Are all the recordings from HD channels? Even though you have the box upconvert, a show recorded from a SD channel will still not take up the space of a true HD recording.

yes
i only tape hd programs
i have 13 eps of Criminal Minds on ch 746
i set another 14 or 15 shows to record over this long weekend
i guess i will see if the 29% used is accurate when i return

(likely CV compresses A&E to 4-5 Mbps)

(likely CV compresses A&E to 4-5 Mbps)

So then you already knew the reason. ;)

possibly off-topic, but I could use some advice w/my 8300HD DVR. I have had an external drive which seems to be working fine for some time now. However, lately, when I play a recent recording, about 10% of the time, the DVR plays back the content from an older, different recording. The older recording is always a different name, channel, etc. I've done hard and soft reboot but no luck getting my recent recording back. Any suggestions?? For what it's worth, once the new recording is corrupt, I've had no luck restoring it.

thanks.

I set my 8300hd to 1080i fixed and currently have 13 hours of saved recordings. Recording Spaced Used: 29%. This would give me around 40 hours of HD recordings? It is the original hard drive, how is this possible?
Sounds about right for an 8300HD with a 320GB drive, which is what it might have if it's fairly new.