Well I am loving Dish network so far. Their HD lineup is amazing, and it all looks fantastic with my Optoma HD72! The ViP 622 has been almost flawless so far with only a couple minor glitches. It is a HUGE improvement over the Motorola 6412 Phase 3 I was using from Adelphia.

I actually ended buying an OTA antenna, the Antennas Direct DB4, because I got too annoyed with the quality of the Dish HD locals on some programming. On most stuff OTA HD looks about the same as the Dish HD locals, but on certain programs there's a noticable quality difference, to my eyes at least. Late night "live" shows are the best example of this (Letterman, Conan, Leno). With movement especially the Dish HD locals don't look as smooth, and since I'm now able to A/B the OTA HD locals with the Dish HD locals it is even more noticable.

The nice thing is the ViP 622 integrates with an OTA antenna really easily so it's an easy fix. The OTA HD channels map right next to the Dish HD locals on the channel lineup. For example, the Dish HD local for CBS in my area is 002-00. The OTA HD local for CBS is 002-01. I can actually record 3 programs at the same time now (2 satellite, 1 OTA) and watch a previously recorded program at the same time!

Well I am loving Dish network so far. Their HD lineup is amazing, and it all looks fantastic with my Optoma HD72! The ViP 622 has been almost flawless so far with only a couple minor glitches. It is a HUGE improvement over the Motorola 6412 Phase 3 I was using from Adelphia.

I actually ended buying an OTA antenna, the Antennas Direct DB4, because I got too annoyed with the quality of the Dish HD locals on some programming. On most stuff OTA HD looks about the same as the Dish HD locals, but on certain programs there's a noticable quality difference, to my eyes at least. Late night "live" shows are the best example of this (Letterman, Conan, Leno). With movement especially the Dish HD locals don't look as smooth, and since I'm now able to A/B the OTA HD locals with the Dish HD locals it is even more noticable.

The nice thing is the ViP 622 integrates with an OTA antenna really easily so it's an easy fix. The OTA HD channels map right next to the Dish HD locals on the channel lineup. For example, the Dish HD local for CBS in my area is 002-00. The OTA HD local for CBS is 002-01. I can actually record 3 programs at the same time now (2 satellite, 1 OTA) and watch a previously recorded program at the same time!


Are you saying you are paying dish for local HD channels just to have EPG data for your local OTA HD channels? It was my understanding that the 622 doesn't provide EPG data for local OTA HD channels which is seems like a poor decision.

I haven't tried cancelling the HD locals so I'm not sure if the EPG data would be there for the OTA HD locals or not. I have read elsewhere that it is not provided unless you pay for the HD locals. Actually, though, the main reason I pay for the HD locals is to have a backup plan in case my OTA antenna loses the signal for some reason, and so that I can record 2 network programs (or watch one and record another) at the same time.

Actually the HD locals are free if you subscribe to locals. Once you subscribe to locals you get the guide for OTA. I also really like the satellite locals maped as subchannel zero. In my opinion Dish hit a home run with the 622.

Plus Dish just lowererd the price of the 622 to $199 with an additional rebate of $100 available. I complained to my wife that I paid $200 extra and she said "cmon Rick if you want to be first you have to expect to pay a little extra."

Rick R

Keep in mind that you can actually record three network programs at the same time while watching a fourth recorded one. Simply record two from satellite feeds and the third from the OTA tuner.

Bob

Keep in mind that you can actually record three network programs at the same time while watching a fourth recorded one. Simply record two from satellite feeds and the third from the OTA tuner.

Bob
True - I should have worded my 2nd post better. I should have said "so I can record more than one network at the same time" rather than "so I can record 2 networks at the same time." I am aware I can record 3 while watching a previously recorded program, as I noted in the first post. Thanks for clarifying that for everyone.

There's really only one thing so far that I don't like about the ViP622, which is that you can't clear the "Pause" or "Fast Forward/Rewind" status bar at the bottom of the screen while you're performing those functions. It goes away if you're in slow motion FF or RW, but not when you're paused or using the 4x, 15x, 60x, or 300x FF or RW. Maybe they'll change that with a future software release or something.

Maybe they'll change that with a future software release or something.
something you may not want with dish. they are notorious for releasing software that screws up their receivers.

I have been waiting for Dish to deliever a nice HD DVR. It sounds like my waiting is over.

Just spoke with a sales rep. I liked everthing he said - except - he said that this DVR will NOT record stuff coming through OTA. Does he have that right?

If this is true - that means I basically have to pay the $5 to get the locals in HD. I would prefer to avoid that.

Thanks,

Rick

By the way... the sales rep said that you get the guide even if you do not subscribe to the locals.

Just spoke with a sales rep. I liked everthing he said - except - he said that this DVR will NOT record stuff coming through OTA. Does he have that right?

No he has that wrong. You can record digital OTA. The 622 has three tuners, two satellite and one OTA. You can record all three simultaneously while playing back two other programs. One playback for TV1 and one playback for TV2. Using the TV2 output the 622 can control a second SD TV in your house saving a second STB fee.

Rick R

Thanks for the correction - I thought that was the way it worked.

Using the TV2 output the 622 can control a second SD TV in your house saving a second STB fee.

Just curious - how practical is this suggestion in reality? Say the second TV is on another floor. Wouldn't you need to run between floors to change chanels. Maybe I am misssing something.

Thanks

Just curious - how practical is this suggestion in reality? Say the second TV is on another floor. Wouldn't you need to run between floors to change chanels. Maybe I am misssing something.
The 622 comes with two remotes:
http://netscape.com.com/i/blog2/20060106/ViP622_440-1136600162625-200_150.jpg

If your TVs are on different floors/rooms, an IR repeater would take care of getting the signal from the 2nd TV to the box.

Just curious - how practical is this suggestion in reality? Say the second TV is on another floor. Wouldn't you need to run between floors to change chanels. Maybe I am misssing something.

The 622 comes with two remotes:
If your TVs are on different floors/rooms, an IR repeater would take care of getting the signal from the 2nd TV to the box.

The second remote with the 622 is UHF (radio waves) so there is no need for an IR repeater. It will work between floors/rooms hopefully without any problems.

If all the above doesn't convince you to go Dish then add PIP in HD, CEO- Charlie (Ergen) Chats, to let you know whats new from Dish, and channel 9415 & 9410, two non-corporate sponsored news stations that just might let you in on what is actually going on in the world.
I get my vip622 DVR installed on the 23rd for $199 minus $10 off a 29 channel HD program package for ten months. This is a lease however, but with the new equipment arivials, this is a good thing. P. S. the 622 is mpeg 4!!!

I've had my VIP pair (622 upstairs in my little suite and 211 downstairs for my Mom and the bigger screen Sceptre) for a couple of months now and believe I have everything going properly now. I switched to the Dish HD boxes from Tivo SD as soon as they came out because the Tivo did a horrible job of playing back recorded HD programming on my Toshiba.

Other than a few service-related complaints and one minor (usually) equipment-related complaint, I'm very pleased with my purchase, even though my monthly bills have been through the roof... far more than promised or anticipated. Additionally, the advertised equipment costs and programming packages are muuuuch lower than I got. I just say make sure you get your sales rep to itemize your bill for you before you agree, so that you know exactly what your payments will be the first three months or so.

The ViP622 does a perfectly lovely job of recording HD programming. I can see no degradation of the picture quality either from my OTA yagi or the many Dish HD channels (which seems to expand weekly!) My only complaint is an audio glitch both in live and recorded programming which sets up a fast echo at times. Sometimes it's quite annoying, sometimes nonexistent. I have not tried to get Dish assistance on this problem, so I can't really complain. It may be related to the poor installation (as follows).

My installation guy was an idiot. EVERY time he came, he told me I couldn't do what I had already contracted Dish to have him do. This began with installation of my original 811 receiver (couldn't install because my HDTV hadn't arrived yet, and he supposedly couldn't install it connected only to an SD set). I was naiive about the facts and allowed him to leave, then when my TV arrived a few days later I had to requeue with him and wait a couple of weeks for him to install the equipment. Then he told me he couldn't upgrade my mom's SD receiver (though they had already shipped it to me). Next trip was to install the 622... couldn't do that because it required an additional cable through the attic (duh... I thought that was why he was here!) But I had anticipated him and had already run the cable myself... so he changed his story and told me it required a special antenna and he didn't have one (duh... I thought that was why he was here!). Finally he came back and installed an antenna, but left it pointing in entirely the wrong direction! Lucky for me, my brother has a unit for his RV and was familiar with aligning the antenna, so he managed to fix things (unless of course this is still the source of the echo, mentioned above). So finally by the time we got the bigger screen downstairs and upgraded to the 211, I just had my brother come by and make sure everything was ok, then the installation guy came by and checked it out and got my signature.

Sorry about all that, just needed to spew a few public remarks.

Bottom line is, now I'm thrilled with the 622, but the 211 has to have daily reboots just like the 811 did. All in all I guess I'm getting a lot for my money if the billing department ever gets things staight... hah!

I do recommend the ViP sets, but I also recommend you go through a local sales and installation service if possible, rather than messing with the idiot contractors Dish seems to employ. It would probably mean you had someone locally to ask when things didn't work quite right.

Wishing you good viewing

Ed

We just had the ViP622 installed and paired it with our Sony Bravia 40" and it is really fantastic! I am having one problem though, and that is that the 622 is outputting everything with a 16:9, 720P signal (as set through my HD setup on the receiver), but not all the programming is being displayed in this fashion, ie SD broadcasts are still only displaying 4:3 with black vertical bars. I can use some of the display options on the TV to fill the screen, but then the guide is unusable when I bring it up as it is stretched as well. I'm a little bugged, because the TV actually has auto-sensing options for different signals it receives, and if the receiver were outputting the true formats it would properly scale the images to fill the screen and I wouldn't have to do a thing. Any thoughts or recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Since you have set the output mode to 720p, everything that the 622 receives is converted to 720p. For example if a SD 4x3 picture is received it adds black bars on the sides and outputs the picture upconverted to 720p. This is how it works. Most if not all STB work this way.

Dish said that they were considering a pass through mode where what ever the 622 received (1080i, 720p, 480i, 480p) would be output to your TV. This just means that the TV converts the program to the TVs native mode instead of the 622.

As you noted, I think, if you get a SD picture with letterboxed 16x9 and black bars on all sides you can hit the "*" button on the remote to zoom this to fill the screen. You have to hit the "*" again to return it to normal before you watch something else or use the guide.

Rick R

Thanks for the reply Rick. I guess that's what I'd like them to implement then, as I would much rather have the TV do the converting as far as the aspect ratio, as it has the (in my mind) better capability to fill the screen depending on whether the source is a 4:3 or 16:9 format. Are you aware of the best place for me to voice my opinion to DishNetwork? Thanks again.

The second remote with the 622 is UHF (radio waves) so there is no need for an IR repeater. It will work between floors/rooms hopefully without any problems.
the bigger issue is the cable between the 622 and the other room... apparently, Dish does not mention this and installers are quite hesitant to fish cable thru the walls... granted you can get by with one coax cable, but i consider this TV2 output to be utterly useless unless TV2 is in the same room.
ironically, when you specify you want Dish in two rooms, they will primarily "suggest" their dual output receivers...

Since the TV in the other room presumably already has a cable going to it from the satellite switch, all you need is another cable from the 622 to the satellite switch area. Connect this new cable to the 622's TV2 output on one end and the connect the other end to the cable going to the TV in the other room. Then connect the other end of this cable to the TV antenna input of the TV in the other room.

This saves $5 a month, gets HD channels to the other TV, and enables DVR capability to the other TV.

Rick R

Since the TV in the other room presumably already has a cable going to it from the satellite switch, all you need is another cable from the 622 to the satellite switch area. Connect this new cable to the 622's TV2 output on one end and the connect the other end to the cable going to the TV in the other room. Then connect the other end of this cable to the TV antenna input of the TV in the other room.

This saves $5 a month, gets HD channels to the other TV, and enables DVR capability to the other TV.

Rick R

I assume you mean this gets downrezzed HD channels to the other room?

yes, the 622 does not output HD but to one tv.

I have a 625 and am awaiting my new HD 622. Right now there is one cable going from my dish to the reciver and split before it goes into the box giving the box two (2) different points of reception. I assume they are going to use this same cable setup for the 622 HD box. If so, am I loosing any PQ. I do have another cable coming into that room that I could use, but I would like to reserve it for OTA antenna if I decide to get one for the outside.

I live in Wentzville MO on MO N near MO Z (in case you are familiar with St. Louis area), anyone know if I will need an outside antenna. I know about the websites, but they are wrong. I had OTA HD with an indoor antenna a year ago, but it sometimes flickered on some channels.

Any ideas about either question.

I have a 625 and am awaiting my new HD 622. Right now there is one cable going from my dish to the reciver and split before it goes into the box giving the box two (2) different points of reception. I assume they are going to use this same cable setup for the 622 HD box. If so, am I loosing any PQ. I do have another cable coming into that room that I could use, but I would like to reserve it for OTA antenna if I decide to get one for the outside.

My 622 has the same two cables one from the satellite switch that is split into two just before the 622. A second cable for OTA from the antenna.

Rick R

a computer to burn to a DVD?

Dish said that they were considering a pass through mode where what ever the 622 received (1080i, 720p, 480i, 480p) would be output to your TV. This just means that the TV converts the program to the TVs native mode instead of the 622.

As you noted, I think, if you get a SD picture with letterboxed 16x9 and black bars on all sides you can hit the "*" button on the remote to zoom this to fill the screen. You have to hit the "*" again to return it to normal before you watch something else or use the guide.

Rick R


The zoom will not fill the screen for 4x3's.

Any word on implementing native mode passthrough?

Actually the HD locals are free if you subscribe to locals. Once you subscribe to locals you get the guide for OTA. I also really like the satellite locals maped as subchannel zero. In my opinion Dish hit a home run with the 622.

Plus Dish just lowererd the price of the 622 to $199 with an additional rebate of $100 available. I complained to my wife that I paid $200 extra and she said "cmon Rick if you want to be first you have to expect to pay a little extra."

Rick R

I'm thinking of switching from Time Warner to Dish...they are offering the 622 for $200, then taking off $20 a month for 10 months to cover the cost. So it's essentially free after 10 months.

The only thing holding me back is locals...not sure what my OTA reception is like, and my GF loves all the CW shows. Also the TiVo lawsuit gives me pause.

I'm not sure but I think it's $10 off for 10 months.
During the last Charlie Chats, Charlie said not to worry about the Tivo lawsuit. He said Dish has pattens that outdate those of Tivo.
You can try this site to find out what chanells you can receive ota.
http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.aspx

I'm not sure but I think it's $10 off for 10 months.
During the last Charlie Chats, Charlie said not to worry about the Tivo lawsuit. He said Dish has pattens that outdate those of Tivo.

It is $10 off regular package and $10 off HD so a total of $20 off for 10 months.

No Charlie did not say that. He lost the patent suit with Tivo. He said they were working on new software to keep the DVR functions without the need to use Tivo's patented tricks.

If I understand correctly, Tivo's patents in question allow earlier DVRs more recording/playback functions using the less powerful processors. Hopefully with the newer DVRs such as the 622, the processing power is much improved that E* does not have to borrow the Tivo's patented DVR tricks.

E* is also showing off a working external HDD for extra 622 storage capacity at CEDIA. I hope this one becomes available soon.

This DVR is excellent almost as good as my HD Tivo . . . . . . . . . .

But unfortunately I can't add more hard drive in it for more HD recording hours. 30 hours of HD recording time is not enough.

HD Tivo is easily upgradeable and limited only to the size of hard drive(s) you can afford. Thats why my HD Tivo still gets all of my season passes.

By the way... the sales rep said that you get the guide even if you do not subscribe to the locals.

Funny, I subscribe to my locals (SD only), and in the five days since I got the 622, I still don't get programming on OTA locals.

Well I am loving Dish network so far. Their HD lineup is amazing, and it all looks fantastic with my Optoma HD72! The ViP 622 has been almost flawless so far with only a couple minor glitches. It is a HUGE improvement over the Motorola 6412 Phase 3 I was using from Adelphia.

I actually ended buying an OTA antenna, the Antennas Direct DB4, because I got too annoyed with the quality of the Dish HD locals on some programming. On most stuff OTA HD looks about the same as the Dish HD locals, but on certain programs there's a noticable quality difference, to my eyes at least. Late night "live" shows are the best example of this (Letterman, Conan, Leno). With movement especially the Dish HD locals don't look as smooth, and since I'm now able to A/B the OTA HD locals with the Dish HD locals it is even more noticable.

The nice thing is the ViP 622 integrates with an OTA antenna really easily so it's an easy fix. The OTA HD channels map right next to the Dish HD locals on the channel lineup. For example, the Dish HD local for CBS in my area is 002-00. The OTA HD local for CBS is 002-01. I can actually record 3 programs at the same time now (2 satellite, 1 OTA) and watch a previously recorded program at the same time!

Totally agree. It's a great unit - flawless operation so far. It hasn't skipped a recording, crashed, hung, etc. The 1080i playback looks just as sharp as my Sony HD-200 did, which is saying something. And Dish Networks is just better than DirecTV. Much better HD programming, and Dish does a split-dish installation in the northwest for HD, which is something I needed given line of sight issues. And dishes are much smaller, lighter, and easier to install than the DirecTV AT9.

This DVR is excellent almost as good as my HD Tivo . . . . . . . . . .

But unfortunately I can't add more hard drive in it for more HD recording hours. 30 hours of HD recording time is not enough.

HD Tivo is easily upgradeable and limited only to the size of hard drive(s) you can afford. Thats why my HD Tivo still gets all of my season passes.
Hang in there, an external HD is coming soon.

This DVR is excellent almost as good as my HD Tivo . . . . . . . . . .

But unfortunately I can't add more hard drive in it for more HD recording hours. 30 hours of HD recording time is not enough.

HD Tivo is easily upgradeable and limited only to the size of hard drive(s) you can afford. Thats why my HD Tivo still gets all of my season passes.

Dish says they are going to add an external hard drive capability very soon to the vip622.

Dish says they are going to add an external hard drive capability very soon to the vip622.

Just switched over Dish...was a Comcast subscriber then turned into Time Warner. Both with the same dual tuner 6412.

Just got my 622 today...I'll update as I get experienced with it. First impressions: VERY RESPONSIVE. The 6412 was pig slow, and often experienced delays in button pushing up to 2 or 3 minutes.

PQ...comparing channels I used to have with cable to the same channels now (TNTHD, SHOHD, HBOHD, HD locals) Dish's seems to be a tad softer, but nothing I can't deal with. The additional channels (there are many) are worth it.

I'm going to have to setup an OTA antennae in order to get the CWHD, but that should be pretty straightforward.

Just got my 622 today...I'll update as I get experienced with it. First impressions: VERY RESPONSIVE. The 6412 was pig slow, and often experienced delays in button pushing up to 2 or 3 minutes.

PQ...comparing channels I used to have with cable to the same channels now (TNTHD, SHOHD, HBOHD, HD locals) Dish's seems to be a tad softer, but nothing I can't deal with. The additional channels (there are many) are worth it.

I'm going to have to setup an OTA antennae in order to get the CWHD, but that should be pretty straightforward.
Getting the ViP622 after using the 6412 PIII for a couple years was a serious breath of fresh air! I haven't regretted switching to satellite at all so far.
It's interesting that you noted the "softness" of some of the Dish HD channels vs the same cable HD channels. I hadn't cancelled my cable subscription when I got the ViP622 so I was able to A/B them using a Denon AV Receiver with component video inputs. I personally couldn't see any difference between the Dish HD channels and the cable HD channels, even though I had a preconceived assumption that the Dish HD channels would be softer. FYI I have a 96'" FP setup using an Optoma HD72 projector. I A/B'd Discovery HD, ESPN-HD, HDNET & HDNET Movies and I couldn't detect any noticable difference. I guess everyone has different setups and it's possible that it's easier to see the difference depending on what equipment you're using.
The OTA antenna integration on the ViP622 is awesome - it becomes just like a 3 tuner DVR rather than just 2. I was a novice with setting up OTA antennas and it was really a breeze for me.

Getting the ViP622 after using the 6412 PIII for a couple years was a serious breath of fresh air! I haven't regretted switching to satellite at all so far.
It's interesting that you noted the "softness" of some of the Dish HD channels vs the same cable HD channels. I hadn't cancelled my cable subscription when I got the ViP622 so I was able to A/B them using a Denon AV Receiver with component video inputs. I personally couldn't see any difference between the Dish HD channels and the cable HD channels, even though I had a preconceived assumption that the Dish HD channels would be softer. FYI I have a 96'" FP setup using an Optoma HD72 projector. I A/B'd Discovery HD, ESPN-HD, HDNET & HDNET Movies and I couldn't detect any noticable difference. I guess everyone has different setups and it's possible that it's easier to see the difference depending on what equipment you're using.
The OTA antenna integration on the ViP622 is awesome - it becomes just like a 3 tuner DVR rather than just 2. I was a novice with setting up OTA antennas and it was really a breeze for me.


I have to agree, this PVR blows doors off the 6412. I have, however, had 3 lockups so far that required rebooting and interrupting recordings. All 3 seemed to happend when I was recording via OTA as well as one Sat tuner. When trying to watch live content the receiver slowed then completely froze. I could hear audio, but couldn't see anything. This happened when I first set up OTA channels and tried a test recording. It happened again when trying to record Dancing with the Stars via SAT, and Jericho via OTA. 3rd time it happened while recording Kidnapped via OTA and CSI NY via SAT.

I'll do a search and see if this a recurring problem and if there's a fix/workaround. Otherwise I'll call support tomorrow and see what I can do about it.

I'll do a search and see if this a recurring problem and if there's a fix/workaround. Otherwise I'll call support tomorrow and see what I can do about it.
The first thing I would try is a "soft" reboot. Go to the ViP622 and open the panel on the right side. Hold the power button in for about 5 seconds or so and the box will reboot. You'll know when it reboots - just keep holding the button until it does. Good luck!

The first thing I would try is a "soft" reboot. Go to the ViP622 and open the panel on the right side. Hold the power button in for about 5 seconds or so and the box will reboot. You'll know when it reboots - just keep holding the button until it does. Good luck!


Thanks...I did have to do that a few times. The 'problem' seems to have resolved itself. I recorded 3 shows simultaneously for the first time last night and watched a 4th recording with no problems.

I was visiting my brother last weekend who is just completing his new house and had just had Dish installed with the ViP622. He made the comment that the drive space was expandable via USB but I wasn't clear if he meant that the capability was already there or if it was coming.

Although I haven't seriously considered satellite in several years because of the HD offerings by Comcast and all the channels I could get OTA (we have 8 or more), when my brother showed me how many HD channels he was getting it got my attention. Since I've felt like we've been getting gouged by Comcast despite subscribing to them for our phone, broadband, and TV, and having to put up with very glitchy performance from the 6412 and 3412 DVRs, I've decided I need to look at the possibility of moving to Dish more seriously.

I have a couple concerns, however, the first of which could be a deal-breaker.

1) I really don't want to lose the ability I currently have to capture HD clips of recorded content onto my notebook PC. Will the expandable capability of the 622's USB port allow me to extract HD content to a PC? Or will I have to buy my own 622 so I can have it R5000-HD (http://www.nextcomwireless.com/r5000/home.htm)'d?

2) I understand that the 622 has three tuners (2 satellite, 1 OTA) that can be recorded from simultaneously, but will I still have any ability to record two non-local HD channels at the same time (such as two separate ball games on ESPN-HD and ESPN2HD)?

3) I suspect that I'll still have analog cable even if I cancel our digital TV package from Comcast because of the cable coming into the house for phone and broadband. Can anyone confirm that one way or the other? (I still use some 3 or 4 analog tuners between my 3 ReplayTVs and ATi AIW video cards.)

If we don't want any of the premium channels, should we expect our bill to be less than our Comcast bill (the digital TV portion)?

Thanks!

Tim

1) The only current use of the USB port is viewing pictures on your HDTV from a digital camera.
2) Yes, one satellite tunner for ESPN HD and one satellite tunner for ESPN2 HD. Still leaves you the OTA tunner to record or watch something else if you need to.
3) I don't know about this. However Adelphia (now Time Warner) knocked on my door once to tell me I could sign up for cable internet access even if I subscribe to satellite. I said no thanks as my DSL is fine for me.

Rick R

Getting the ViP622 after using the 6412 PIII for a couple years was a serious breath of fresh air! I haven't regretted switching to satellite at all so far.
It's interesting that you noted the "softness" of some of the Dish HD channels vs the same cable HD channels. I hadn't cancelled my cable subscription when I got the ViP622 so I was able to A/B them using a Denon AV Receiver with component video inputs. I personally couldn't see any difference between the Dish HD channels and the cable HD channels, even though I had a preconceived assumption that the Dish HD channels would be softer. FYI I have a 96'" FP setup using an Optoma HD72 projector. I A/B'd Discovery HD, ESPN-HD, HDNET & HDNET Movies and I couldn't detect any noticable difference. I guess everyone has different setups and it's possible that it's easier to see the difference depending on what equipment you're using.
The OTA antenna integration on the ViP622 is awesome - it becomes just like a 3 tuner DVR rather than just 2. I was a novice with setting up OTA antennas and it was really a breeze for me.

The softness issue may stem from the HDMI output of the 6412 phase III having a higher contrast which also crushes blacks (my pet peve) so when its compared to a DVR that doesn't crush blacks, it may appear softer. Component output on the 6412 looks a little softer compared to HDMI, but it might also be more correct.

My concern about the 622 is that there are times where I'd like to record dual OTA channels as Dish doesn't offer HD in my area. With 1 OTA tuner, I wouldn't be able to do this.

1) I really don't want to lose the ability I currently have to capture HD clips of recorded content onto my notebook PC. Will the expandable capability of the 622's USB port allow me to extract HD content to a PC? Or will I have to buy my own 622 so I can have it R5000-HD (http://www.nextcomwireless.com/r5000/home.htm)'d?
Currently the only way to extract HD content is with the R5000 modification. Of course you could extract non HD content using the S-Video output.

3) I suspect that I'll still have analog cable even if I cancel our digital TV package from Comcast because of the cable coming into the house for phone and broadband. Can anyone confirm that one way or the other? (I still use some 3 or 4 analog tuners between my 3 ReplayTVs and ATi AIW video cards.)?
I'm with Time Warner and I ended up keeping them for broadband internet when I switched to Dish Network for TV. I kept my Moto 6412 because they aren't charging me for it and it still receives HD locals and Discovery HD for some reason. If they start charging me a "DVR Fee" or something I'll probably bring it back (depending on how much it is) but for now it's nice to have a free backup for my HD locals in case we have a big snowstorm or something this winter. I'm not receiving any other channels though.


If we don't want any of the premium channels, should we expect our bill to be less than our Comcast bill (the digital TV portion)?
I'm not sure - it really depends on what package you get. I have the most expensive HD package before you jump to premium channels and it's $86.24 per month after taxes. I have to pay a $5 per month charge, though, because I don't have the ViP622 connected to a phone line. Even though that is a little more than my cable bill was, I now have about 20 more HD channels (all the Voom channels, ESPN2HD, Universal HD, Food HD, HGHD) than I had with cable, and a much much better DVR to use as well.

I'm considering doing the R5000 modification so I can extract HD content too. In my opinion, even with the cost of the DVR and the cost of the R5000 mod, it would still be worth it to get the ViP622 and be free from the POC Moto 6412!!

Thanks for the help, myapplebuddy!

Were you not being charged a fee for the 6412 because of your many complaints? Maybe I could do the same with the 3412.

When you say you're not getting any channels besides the locals and Disc-HD on the 6412 with your broadband connection, do you mean no other HD channels? Or no other channels at all (not even the non-HD ones)?

Do we have to buy the 622 straight up in order to have it R5000'd? Or would Dish allow us to do it with the one we get for free after rebate when we sign up?

Thanks!

Tim

Thanks for the help, myapplebuddy!

Were you not being charged a fee for the 6412 because of your many complaints? Maybe I could do the same with the 3412.

When you say you're not getting any channels besides the locals and Disc-HD on the 6412 with your broadband connection, do you mean no other HD channels? Or no other channels at all (not even the non-HD ones)?

Do we have to buy the 622 straight up in order to have it R5000'd? Or would Dish allow us to do it with the one we get for free after rebate when we sign up?

Thanks!

Tim
I have no idea why I'm not being charged for the 6412. Maybe it's because I dont' pay for any cable services so they figure it's useless anyways. I can't use any of its DVR functions either. I'm literally only using it as a backup for our HD locals and Discovery HD in case the satellite ever goes out. And yes those are the only channels I'm getting. I don't get any other HD or non-HD channels. When I originally got the 6412, it came with HD locals and Discovery HD for free. I guess just having the box and any cable signal gives me at least those channels for free!

I'm not sure about whether you have to buy the ViP622 or not. I'm a bit confused about that actually because I had to pay $300 to get the ViP622 but as far as I know Dish still owns it. I might just do the modification and then if they later want to charge me or yell at me for it I'll just deal with it then.

I have a DISH installer coming to my house this Saturday. I still have time to consider a Vip622 for my older 65 Mits HD, (component only), to replace my Sony HD200 receiver that I presently use with DirectTV.

My question is,what kind of HD pic improvement, (if any??), would there be over the Sony HD200. I was hoping for some improvement with satellite channels, especially ESPN-HD,( to much compression for me from Direct TV). Sony HD200 OTA looks pretty good to me, I've owned this receiver for about 3-4 years. Any help is appreciated...............

I'm not sure about whether you have to buy the ViP622 or not. I'm a bit confused about that actually because I had to pay $300 to get the ViP622 but as far as I know Dish still owns it. I might just do the modification and then if they later want to charge me or yell at me for it I'll just deal with it then.


It depends. If you paid the $300, but they credit you back $30 a month for 10 months, then I think they still own it. If you paid up front and have no credits coming back, it's yours.

I paid $200, but they are crediting it back to me over 10 months. So we'll see.

...I'm not sure about whether you have to buy the ViP622 or not. I'm a bit confused about that actually because I had to pay $300 to get the ViP622 but as far as I know Dish still owns it. I might just do the modification and then if they later want to charge me or yell at me for it I'll just deal with it then.

The $299 you paid for the Vip622 was an "upgrade fee" not purchase price which should be at least $699 at that time. You are still leasing the 622 so it is the property of E*. I would still go ahead with the mod if I were you and don't want to wait. The most you have to do is remove the mod if you have to send it back to E*.

You do have to assume some level of risk, if E* finds out and then insists you pay the full price because the 622 is opened. For that reason I will wait for E*'s external storage solution.

I have a DISH installer coming to my house this Saturday. I still have time to consider a Vip622 for my older 65 Mits HD, (component only), to replace my Sony HD200 receiver that I presently use with DirectTV.

My question is,what kind of HD pic improvement, (if any??), would there be over the Sony HD200. I was hoping for some improvement with satellite channels, especially ESPN-HD,( to much compression for me from Direct TV). Sony HD200 OTA looks pretty good to me, I've owned this receiver for about 3-4 years. Any help is appreciated...............
Why would you not want a 622? Are you keeping D* also? Would it be a second 622? You can get a 211 HD receiver for a second tuner if you want. And yes, Dish has better picture quality than D*.

Why would you not want a 622? Are you keeping D* also? Would it be a second 622? You can get a 211 HD receiver for a second tuner if you want. And yes, Dish has better picture quality than D*.

Hi Bill,

At first I was going to get the 211HD receiver but I have opted to go with the 622. Its a $199.00 lease for me since I am switching from D*, plus a monthly fee of $5.95. Maybe it is the same deal for existing customers?? The wife is also getting a SD DVR for the living room. I can't remember the model #??

My main concern was what type of pic. to expect from DISH? You've answered that :D ... I also see that DISH HD programing package has about 25 HD channels to offer. Very nice....

Thanks for the reply!..............

And a $200 programing credit- free DVR. Enjoy. BTW, the 622 is a SD DVR for a second TV at the same time. However I am ticked off with E* because they said we would have HD-RSNs soon when I signed up 3 months ago, still waiting. :mad:

I'm thinking of switching to Dish Network and have a question about the 622...

I will have only 1 HD television hooked up to the 622. What I want to know is, can I record a program in HD (either Sat feed or OTA) and watch a different program also in HD (either Sat feed or OTA) on the same television. In other words are the multiple tuners all HD, or do I give up HD viewing if I'm recording HD at the same time???

Thanks.

I'm thinking of switching to Dish Network and have a question about the 622...

I will have only 1 HD television hooked up to the 622. What I want to know is, can I record a program in HD (either Sat feed or OTA) and watch a different program also in HD (either Sat feed or OTA) on the same television. In other words are the multiple tuners all HD, or do I give up HD viewing if I'm recording HD at the same time???

Thanks.

Yep you can record HD from all tuners....

In fact you can record 3 HD programs at once - 1 OTA and 2 SAT while viewing an HD program you have already recorded.

Thanks for your quick reply. :)

Looks like I'll be making the switch.

Can you tell me if E* has any sort of time period that if I'm unhappy with the PQ that I can cancel without penalty. I will be signing up for the 18 month commitment and paying the $199 for the 622. If I see a noticeable (and I mean NOTICEABLE) difference in quality from Brighthouse, I want to have a few days at least to be able to cancel and return the equipment.

I asked a rep from E* and they didn't weren't too convincing in their response. It seemed like they were just telling me what I wanted to hear so I would sign up.

"ummm, yes sir. you can, ummm, return and, ummm, cancel without any, uh, problems. " :rolleyes:

I'm pretty sure it's 30 days. The only reservation I'm having is the wonky HDMI output which in the past has failed within months of install due to a poor hardware connection to the system motherboard. It's a pretty severe failure rate from what I've read on various boards.

This DVR is rivaling my Momitsu dvd player for worst consumer electronics device I've ever had the displeasure of using. Audio is always going out. Have to reset the unit at least once a day. Searching for programs is much more difficult than with Tivo. Constantly records repeats even though it's not supposed. to. Watching a program while recording another is a crapshoot. High definition switches to standard definition out of nowhere. Dialogue disappears...someone explain that one. I'm on my second unit, and it's behaving worse than our first.

I have to agree, this PVR blows doors off the 6412. I have, however, had 3 lockups so far that required rebooting and interrupting recordings. All 3 seemed to happend when I was recording via OTA as well as one Sat tuner. When trying to watch live content the receiver slowed then completely froze. I could hear audio, but couldn't see anything. This happened when I first set up OTA channels and tried a test recording. It happened again when trying to record Dancing with the Stars via SAT, and Jericho via OTA. 3rd time it happened while recording Kidnapped via OTA and CSI NY via SAT.

I'll do a search and see if this a recurring problem and if there's a fix/workaround. Otherwise I'll call support tomorrow and see what I can do about it.

I've had the 'frozen pic' w/live audio but never needed to reboot.

Has anyone had problems with E* OTA tuner. I have a antenna installed on the roof . When I use the OTA turner on my samsung DLP I have no problem with reception. Use the VIP622 OTA turner I can not lock a signal on three stations( signal goes to 98 then 0) any suggestions. BTW this is second box I have had. HDMI probelm aslo.

I have had no problems with the 622's OTA tuner. I have three OTA STB in my house. My Dish 6000 in the bedroom, my MIT MDR-200 OTA only STB with firewire for recording to DVHS, and my 622.

I had observed previously thet the MIT MDR-200 was superior to the 6000 for OTA. Stations would break up on the 6000 but were solid on the MIT MDR-200. Now I have observed that the 622 is superior to the MIT MDR-200 for OTA. I have observed several channels that were fine on the 622 but were not good on the MIT MDR-200.

Rick R

I have had no problems with the 622's OTA tuner. I have three OTA STB in my house. My Dish 6000 in the bedroom, my MIT MDR-200 OTA only STB with firewire for recording to DVHS, and my 622.

I had observed previously thet the MIT MDR-200 was superior to the 6000 for OTA. Stations would break up on the 6000 but were solid on the MIT MDR-200. Now I have observed that the 622 is superior to the MIT MDR-200 for OTA. I have observed several channels that were fine on the 622 but were not good on the MIT MDR-200.

Rick R

Ok, Thanks. I guess I will keep messing with it until I get it fixed. Driving me crazy.

Fred

I finally got installed Saturday with my new VIP622. All I can say is wow. Coming from a comcast 6412 box, this is a truly liberating experience. Responsive menus, a fast forward speed that will blind you, a remote that actually does control all of my components, 30 hours of HD DVR, recording 3 HD channels at once (using the onboard terrestrial tuner), I can go on and on.

The E* PQ is great also. I wish I had switched back long ago.

JAB

I finally got installed Saturday with my new VIP622. All I can say is wow. Coming from a comcast 6412 box, this is a truly liberating experience. Responsive menus, a fast forward speed that will blind you, a remote that actually does control all of my components, 30 hours of HD DVR, recording 3 HD channels at once (using the onboard terrestrial tuner), I can go on and on.

The E* PQ is great also. I wish I had switched back long ago.

JAB


Still loving it as well, although i had my first experience dealing with rain/wind knocking out my signal :-( That's any sat service though, not just Dish. The only thing I miss about cable, it handled the weather better.

I'm loving my 622 as well.. it's already came in handy for watching a recorded show in the bedroom when the wife wanted to watch something else that was recorded. No HD on TV2, but better than nothing!

The only thing I've noticed with both my 622 and 211, after making changes to local channels (adding or removing a channel, chaning channel name), the box either becomes unresponsive, or will not actually show the OTA signal (black screen). A reboot has always fixed this. Now that I have my antennas where I want them with all channels coming in, it's not an issue.. but I was just wondering if others experienced the same problem?

Luckily, I haven't had the service go out yet due to weather (it's rained off and on), but I'm sure I just cursed myself. :)

Still loving it as well, although i had my first experience dealing with rain/wind knocking out my signal :-( That's any sat service though, not just Dish. The only thing I miss about cable, it handled the weather better.

Not in my neighborhood. :confused: The cable was a joke. Everytime the weather changes, so does the signal strength. I fought comcast for 2 1/2 years on this issue and finally got fed up and went back to E* :o .

The one thing I do miss about the comcast box was the ability to transfer programs from the DVR to my PC via firewire. I like archiving some programs like concerts. I hope someone will find a way to do this with the 622, or at lease implement an external hard drive solution for archiving.

JAB

Not in my neighborhood. :confused: The cable was a joke. Everytime the weather changes, so does the signal strength. I fought comcast for 2 1/2 years on this issue and finally got fed up and went back to E* :o .

The one thing I do miss about the comcast box was the ability to transfer programs from the DVR to my PC via firewire. I like archiving some programs like concerts. I hope someone will find a way to do this with the 622, or at lease implement an external hard drive solution for archiving.

JAB


Someone in another form mentioned that E* is about to active USB archiving, but I haven't been able to confirm that.

Here's his reply (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8826105&highlight=iteki+usb+confirmed#post8826105) :

Apparently it's coming in december.

Someone in another form mentioned that E* is about to active USB archiving, but I haven't been able to confirm that.

Here's his reply (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8826105&highlight=iteki+usb+confirmed#post8826105) :

Apparently it's coming in december.
Yahoo! That will be fabulous!

Thanks for the info!
JAB

I'm loving my 622 as well.. it's already came in handy for watching a recorded show in the bedroom when the wife wanted to watch something else that was recorded. No HD on TV2, but better than nothing!

The only thing I've noticed with both my 622 and 211, after making changes to local channels (adding or removing a channel, chaning channel name), the box either becomes unresponsive, or will not actually show the OTA signal (black screen). A reboot has always fixed this. Now that I have my antennas where I want them with all channels coming in, it's not an issue.. but I was just wondering if others experienced the same problem?

Luckily, I haven't had the service go out yet due to weather (it's rained off and on), but I'm sure I just cursed myself. :)

Think this will help my problem
My sisiter is having a problem with OTA channels throgh component. Is there a setting that the box is supposed to be on? They were working at 1 time now she is getting nothing on OTA any help would be appreciated. I am a TIVO guy so this is like foreign language to me.

Someone in another form mentioned that E* is about to active USB archiving, but I haven't been able to confirm that.

Here's his reply (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8826105&highlight=iteki+usb+confirmed#post8826105) :

Apparently it's coming in december.They did not specify which December. :D

They are currently busy with the distants fun so don't fret if this gets pushed back.

Well I'm going on my second week with the 622 now and I'm noticing audio sync issues on RAVE HD. Maybe other channels too, but definately RAVE. Has anyone else seen this? I'm using component video with optical audio.

Thanks,
JAB

Dear Mr. White,



Thank you for your e-mail. At this time, we do not have any information on if or when such a service will be available from Dish Network. Tune into our monthly Charlie Chats for any announcements or log onto our website for any press releases.



We hope we have properly addressed your concerns. If you have further questions you can respond to this e-mail or access our online technical support at the following link: http://tech.dishnetwork.com/departmental_content/techportal/index.shtml.



Thanks,



Matt J.

Technical E-mail Support

Dish Network



**When responding, please include all previous e-mail correspondences so that we can reference your original concerns**





-----Original Message-----
From:]
Sent: Sunday, November 19, 2006 10:56 PM
To: Tech
Subject: Technical Support, XXXXXXXX



Full Name: David White

Account Number: XXXX-



Question: I own a Vip622 HD DVR and was wondering if and when there would

be any way to add ext. storage to this unit 30 hrs of record time is

pretty limiting. Exspecially when I can record 2 HD shows at once. I enjoy

the HD packages and the amount of HD shows, I just can't record all the

shows I want to due to the small size of the hard drive inside the unit.

Thanks!

David White

[QUOTE=myapplebuddy]I'm not sure - it really depends on what package you get. I have the most expensive HD package before you jump to premium channels and it's $86.24 per month after taxes. I have to pay a $5 per month charge, though, because I don't have the ViP622 connected to a phone line.QUOTE]

What is up with this $5 charge? I know the Dish web site says you have to be connected to a land based phone. I've got VOIP phone service. One customer Service person told me that the VOIP phone connection will avoid the $5 fee. But I cant seem to get a straight answer out of them what this fee I all about, which is making me wonder if the receiver will even work properly.

I appreciate any feedback on this!

[QUOTE=myapplebuddy]I'm not sure - it really depends on what package you get. I have the most expensive HD package before you jump to premium channels and it's $86.24 per month after taxes. I have to pay a $5 per month charge, though, because I don't have the ViP622 connected to a phone line.QUOTE]

What is up with this $5 charge? I know the Dish web site says you have to be connected to a land based phone. I've got VOIP phone service. One customer Service person told me that the VOIP phone connection will avoid the $5 fee. But I cant seem to get a straight answer out of them what this fee I all about, which is making me wonder if the receiver will even work properly.

I appreciate any feedback on this!

The 622 will work fine without a phone line hooked up. Don't think of it as a $5 charge if the phone line isn't hooked up -- think of it as a $5 credit if the phone line IS hooked up. E* requires a phone line hooked up to dual tuner receivers (or pay the $5), if I remember correctly.

This will also make PPV orders more convenient, not having to call-in or go to the website, if you plan on ever ordering anything, that is.

I have a friend with VOIP that could not have a phone line hooked up b/c of the VOIP.... When they called and explained the situation to Dish, they waived the $5 fee in their case...

I've got the 322 dual-tuner, and if you go into the menu, you will find a setting for what time the tuner calls out back to them every day. I think the default is set at something like 3:00 AM, but I changed it to 6:00 AM, because that's a time where I am absolutely never online (yeah, I've got lame dial-up). I have been able to confirm that it actually does do this at this set time everyday. As far as I know, they use this to find out what you've been watching for "marketing" purposes. Sort of a "Big Brother" kind of thing. I think the receiver has some sort of memory for this. So, basically, YOU'RE paying THEM for them to keep track of what YOU watch. And they're likely using this info and possibly even selling it to who knows who (maybe even the government, for all we know - it certainly wouldn't surprise me these days).

Anyhow, I've been experimenting lately with unhooking the phone line for days at a time, because I've got a set number of local calls I can make with my phone co. call pack, and the daily calls to E* always push me over the limit, and I have to pay more for the extra calls. I've been doing it for a couple of months now, and so far I haven't had any notices or changes to my bill. I usually make sure it's hooked up 1 or 2 days a week, at the very least. The only thing I get is an on-screen notice (on each tuner) when I turn it on the next day after it's been unplugged, saying "You must have the receiver continually connected to a phone line in order to not pay the fee, blah, blah". I just hit "enter" and it goes away.

I know that some people who have D* have said that they get by with only one day a month, but I haven't gone that long with E* yet.

So, you can take that for whatever it's worth.

Am considering the E* upgrade offer to the 622 and adding one of the metal packages.

Is the metal programming (presume MPEG4) compatible with the 942(MPEG2?) that I bought last year? I'd like to run the 942 for the 2d HDTV. Thanks in advance.

Thanks to all for the feedback.

I just signed up for Dish HD Gold package with VIP622 HD/DVR receiver. I think maybe I was confused about the requirement for a "land based" telephone to remain connected. I believe that analog or VOIP satisfies this requirement - just not a cell phone. I told the customer service person at allsat dot com that I was using VOIP, and they said that was fine. Plus I ran a line from my VOIP network to my current DirectTV receiver, and the on-screen caller ID feature is working fine, so it appears that this receiver doesn't distinguish between analog line and VOIP either.

I'm excited about my new Dish service, but I am going to kind of miss calling direct TV every 6 months and threatening to switch to Dish if they don't give me free movie channels and other discounts :)

[QUOTE=DMH1]Am considering the E* upgrade offer to the 622 and adding one of the metal packages.QUOTE]

Dude,
I'm totally waiting for the Metal packages too! I'm holding out for the Iron Maiden Supreme Deluxe myself but I'd settle for the Judas Priest Gold Edition. :D


MK

I've also recently switched to the 622 coming from DirecTV. I thought I would have a tough time coming from a TIVO based receiver, well, got right over it. Now I'm loving it.

I signed up for Dish service with a 622 box and so far things are going great!

One tip I wanted to share which I happened to figure out about a week ago... if you have one of these, you've probably noticed that the unit gets ridiculously hot. I was getting a little worried between the 622 and my Xbox360 in the same cabinet generating a ton of heat, but then I found a neat trick that seems to work perfectly. I stole (er borrowed) my girlfriend's Antec Laptop Cooler thing, set the fans on high, put it under the 622, and plugged the cooler in to the 622's front USB port. This reduced the temperature of the unit a TON, and there don't seem to be any problems with power drain through the USB being used full time.

Also if anyone has the time, I'm looking to buy a new home theater audio system because my current one is incompatible with the 622 remote (and also my system sucks). Does anyone have any suggestions for a budget home audio setup that is also compatible with the 622 remote?

I'm wondering since I can't add Hard drive space to this thing has anybody been able to achive any HD any how are you doing it if you are?
Thanks in advance.

Also if anyone has the time, I'm looking to buy a new home theater audio system because my current one is incompatible with the 622 remote (and also my system sucks). Does anyone have any suggestions for a budget home audio setup that is also compatible with the 622 remote?
Just my 2 cents worth...I wouldn't buy an audio system based on whether it's compatable with the 622 remote. Instead, buy a Home Theater Master MX-500 remote and buy whatever audio system sounds good to your ears for your budget. The MX-500 is truly an amazing remote, especially for the price.