Is it possible that D*'s issue with LiL picture quality is because of the use of lower resolution than E*? I'm not sure if the numbers but have read on other threads that E* sends higher resolution HD than D*. Is it that or just the different compression being used?
I'm not sure, I haven't seen any transport stream capture info yet. I suspect that they are both doing the same thing though. In SF they both grab the signals OTA over by PacBell Park(or whatever it's called now-where the Giants play) and I'd imagine the only difference may be the actual brand of the equipment they use.

E*'s higher resolution is with the national channels.

I just got an email from DirecTV telling me that the HR20 is available now from Best Buy but the link to BB is no good.

I got the same mail, and I called Customer Retention at 1-800-824-9081 and spoke to Jamie. I told her I wanted the HR-20 and asked what kind of a deal she could give me. She offered a free DVR and dish, the relocation of my existing DVR to my bedroom, and four months of HD service for free (then the $9.95 fee starts) in exchange for a two year commitment. No handling, delivery, setup or hardware charges. I took the offer. Unit goes in Thursday.

I live in metro Seattle.

I'm sorry too, but there are other reasons to watch football than rooting for a single team. Living in the Detroit area, I gave up on the Lions years ago. I've been watching football for years just to see good teams and good games, regardless of who is playing.

I'll trade you Isiah Thomas for Matt Millen.

Just had D install my HR20 today. Up in running in less than 15 minutes (I already had the 5LNB dish).

No charge ($20 for S/H).

Definitely available outside the LA area.

marty

Just had D install my HR20 today. Up in running in less than 15 minutes (I already had the 5LNB dish).

No charge ($20 for S/H).

Definitely available outside the LA area.

marty

I'm in Pleasanton in SF Bay Area and got the email today saying it's available. I called and have this set up for 9/16. Could have it as soon as next Tuesday but I am going on vacation. Only $20 for me as well.

Paul

MFG, PMA, anybody else from the SF Bay Area: I have called D twice, and both times they insist that the HR20 is ONLY available for installation in the LA Area. I did have one say that "independent installers" may be installing them, but not D*.

How/who did you talk to to get the HR20 installed? I am a long, long time sub with the HR10, so I don't think I need to pay $399 from Best Buy, etc.

MFG, PMA, anybody else from the SF Bay Area: I have called D twice, and both times they insist that the HR20 is ONLY available for installation in the LA Area. I did have one say that "independent installers" may be installing them, but not D*.

How/who did you talk to to get the HR20 installed? I am a long, long time sub with the HR10, so I don't think I need to pay $399 from Best Buy, etc.

HD DVRs are free for anyone who subscribes to ST and SF. Just call up and ask for the ST/SF deal. If they have an HR20 available that is what they will bring out for the "install". If you don't already have a 5LNB dish it will have to be installed as well.

MFG, PMA, anybody else from the SF Bay Area: I have called D twice, and both times they insist that the HR20 is ONLY available for installation in the LA Area. I did have one say that "independent installers" may be installing them, but not D*.

How/who did you talk to to get the HR20 installed? I am a long, long time sub with the HR10, so I don't think I need to pay $399 from Best Buy, etc.

dandrewk:
Earlier in this thread is a number that takes you directly to retention. An actual human answers and you don't have to go through the uninformed CSR's.

Paul

dandrewk:
Earlier in this thread is a number that takes you directly to retention. An actual human answers and you don't have to go through the uninformed CSR's.

Paul

Thanks Paul. I called 800-824-9081. They are extremely helpful and knowledgeable. The first rep did some checking but could not verify that the units are in the Bay Area, as the local office was not picking up the phone. She suggested I call any local retailer/installer and see if they have the HR20, and then call them back. All they needed was verification, D* would still install the unit.

So I found a local installer that was open today and verified the stock. I called back, talked to a different rep and got signed up for installation this Wednesday.

Cost - $19.95, includes installation. I not only keep my current HR10, but they will relocate it to another room as part of the deal.

I am pretty happy with all this. :D:D

Thanks Paul. I called 800-824-9081. They are extremely helpful and knowledgeable. The first rep did some checking but could not verify that the units are in the Bay Area, as the local office was not picking up the phone. She suggested I call any local retailer/installer and see if they have the HR20, and then call them back. All they needed was verification, D* would still install the unit.

So I found a local installer that was open today and verified the stock. I called back, talked to a different rep and got signed up for installation this Wednesday.

Cost - $19.95, includes installation. I not only keep my current HR10, but they will relocate it to another room as part of the deal.

I am pretty happy with all this. :D:D


Good news. I have always talked with rentention. Always stay away from Tier 1.

marty

I'm in the Napa Valley, is this considered to be in the Bay area? If so what exactly is the ST/SF deal. I got an email the other day but I don't recall seeing any deal offered.

Paul

Napa Valley is in the SF DMA so it should be available. There was no deal in that email that I saw, I did finally find the HR20 at Best Buy but it shows as out of stock everywhere in the bay area.

Getting a deal with DirecTV is a lot like dealing with a car salesman, different deals for different people based on a lot of factors and possibly even what sort of day the CSR is having.

I'm tempted to order the HR20 now, but there is no real advantage for me yet, other than being able to get FSNBA-HD.

I'm in the Napa Valley, is this considered to be in the Bay area? If so what exactly is the ST/SF deal. I got an email the other day but I don't recall seeing any deal offered.

Paul

If you subscribe to NFL Sunday Ticket and the SuperFan HD package (ST/SF) call customer retention and tell them you would like to order an HD DVR since you are such a great customer. They will send it to you at no charge or for a shipping charge, depending on how much you feel like negotiating. Below is a link to the thread.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=686376&goto=newpost

Napa Valley is in the SF DMA so it should be available. There was no deal in that email that I saw, I did finally find the HR20 at Best Buy but it shows as out of stock everywhere in the bay area.

Getting a deal with DirecTV is a lot like dealing with a car salesman, different deals for different people based on a lot of factors and possibly even what sort of day the CSR is having.

I'm tempted to order the HR20 now, but there is no real advantage for me yet, other than being able to get FSNBA-HD.

Keenan - I was just going to ask about FSN. So it is available in HD from D*? I couldn't find any info on the website.

Good news. I have always talked with rentention. Always stay away from Tier 1.

marty

How does it look, btw? If you have/had the HR10, any improvements in PQ?

Keenan - I was just going to ask about FSN. So it is available in HD from D*? I couldn't find any info on the website.
I haven't seen it myself, but it is available. It shows up on ch 96 for games only, it's not a full time channel yet.

How does it look, btw? If you have/had the HR10, any improvements in PQ?
I've been wondering how the local channels look as well, maybe we can invite ourselves over to mfb's place for a look-see. :p :D

Anyone not on the west coast get one of these yet?

D* says it will be available in September in my area (Washington DC) thru Best Buy but the person I spoke to wasnt too keen on working me a deal and Ive been a D* customer for 8+ years.

I'm a bit disapointed to say the least...

Anyone not on the west coast get one of these yet?

D* says it will be available in September in my area (Washington DC) thru Best Buy but the person I spoke to wasnt too keen on working me a deal and Ive been a D* customer for 8+ years.

I'm a bit disapointed to say the least...

Did you speak to a tier 1 csr or to retention? That is where you will get the best deal.

Anyone not on the west coast get one of these yet?

D* says it will be available in September in my area (Washington DC) thru Best Buy but the person I spoke to wasnt too keen on working me a deal and Ive been a D* customer for 8+ years.

I'm a bit disapointed to say the least...

You may want to call around to local installers and ask if they have the HR20 yet. Look in the phone book, or go to the D* website. If you find -any- installer who says he has one, you're in!

Call 800-824-9081, ask about the availability of the HR20 in you area. Tell them that you already know a local source has them. Then mention you are an 8 year sub and want to know if they can offer any discount.

I am a 12 year sub, I got it for the $19.95 handling fee. You should get something similar.

Did you speak to a tier 1 csr or to retention? That is where you will get the best deal.

They transfered me to some person who can answer idiotic questions.

How do I get to "retention"?

They transfered me to some person who can answer idiotic questions.

How do I get to "retention"?

800-824-9081

I'm kind of on the fence if I want to get this DVR or the Pannasonic EH55S. I like the idea of being able to move the files from the HD to a DVD with the Panny. The price though is higher then I would like to pay at the moment. The HR20 seems like a nice deal at $399, but am still unsure if I want to pay X amount per month to use it, or am I wrong on that?

Yeah I just spoke to D* retention and they did offer me the H10-250 for s&h BUT said that when I was able to swap it out for the HR20 that I would have to pay the full $399 for the new unit. I said no thanks since it is rumored to be available for $100 less online... frustrating :(

Yeah I just spoke to D* retention and they did offer me the H10-250 for s&h BUT said that when I was able to swap it out for the HR20 that I would have to pay the full $399 for the new unit. I said no thanks since it is rumored to be available for $100 less online... frustrating :(


Wow! So D* offered to give you an HR10, that originally cost $1000, for free ... but then expected you to pay asking price for the HR20 at a future date? The nerve! I'm outraged at such a travesty ... how is D* allowed to get away with this??? .... Unbelievable!!! :rolleyes:

<shaking head in disbelief> :D

My HR20 and new dish are scheduled for install on sept 23rd. I hope that most of the remaining bug are fixed by then.

Yeah I just spoke to D* retention and they did offer me the H10-250 for s&h BUT said that when I was able to swap it out for the HR20 that I would have to pay the full $399 for the new unit. I said no thanks since it is rumored to be available for $100 less online... frustrating :(

How long have you been a customer? They only offer deals to long timers or those who subscribe to NFL Sunday Ticket.

If you are a long time or ST sub, call again. It's very much like car shopping. If you can't get a deal you like at one dealer, try another. D* apparently gives lots of leeway to its retentions CSR's, so it's up to the individual you talk to.

Got an e-mail from Directv on 9/1/06 stated could get the new dvr at bestbuy.com, I contacted directv customer service and stated I had a previous deal with retention that I could get one for $150 when available, the rep stated it was not available in my area yet and the only way I could get one was through bestbuy.com. I am a little bit upset but I am patient that is basically available nationally now but I can't get what I was offered. I told him I would wait until it was available for the deal I got. Just from a business standpoint I know they have sold me the receiver cheaper than what bestbuy is selling it for but if they would send me one now they could start getting their dvr usage fee now instead of a month from now or whenever. Maybe new customers will pay the retail price of $399. but I haggled with retention and told them E* deal was $199 for hd dvr and basically free hd programming for 12 months. If people out their compare they might just leave directv alone and switch. I am patient though just as long as I get this thing before the new fall seasons of shows.
jdmac29

Can anyone confirm or add to this post? I'm trying to figure out if I should upgrade now or wait - I only had the HR10-250 installed a few months ago. thanks.


This is my first post here. long looker at the AVS forum

Miked2303, looking for some advice.

In my humble opinion. Directv is evolving its equipment as soon as they possibly can to supply its customer base. From what I gather they ( Directv ) will be replacing (swapping at no charge) the HR10-250's on a swap out basis after the first of this coming new year.

Just enjoy the unit you have now and be patient. There is actually no need to really demand this product until they get get the bugs worked out although they have done a wonderful job with HR20 so far. with the new satellites going up in March or April of 2007. Directv has placed itself well in the marketplace.

The "I want it NOW!" will just not work, unless you want to be the first kid on the block with the new toy. If that is the case then you will have to pay for it .

Those that are patient will get the swap out for free.

I like free so I will patiently wait.

Noting some of the earlier posts on this thread, is there a consolidated list of the known bugs for the HR20? I've seen something regarding the optical output not working unless you plug in a RCA cable to the audio out. Is that all there is?

Noting some of the earlier posts on this thread, is there a consolidated list of the known bugs for the HR20? I've seen something regarding the optical output not working unless you plug in a RCA cable to the audio out. Is that all there is?

The link below deals with all of the positive and Negitive issues of the HR20

http://www.dbstalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=112

How long have you been a customer? They only offer deals to long timers or those who subscribe to NFL Sunday Ticket.

If you are a long time or ST sub, call again. It's very much like car shopping. If you can't get a deal you like at one dealer, try another. D* apparently gives lots of leeway to its retentions CSR's, so it's up to the individual you talk to.

7 years off and on and not a st sub... I guess that makes the difference... I guess I'll wait for a bigger roll out and call back

I was set for a switch to E* but with the merger talks and court problems I have gotten cold feet

Does the 5 LNB dish work with all the old equipment?

I am thinking of just getting the new dish installed now so that when the HR20 arrives, I will be set.

Does the 5 LNB dish work with all the old equipment?

I am thinking of just getting the new dish installed now so that when the HR20 arrives, I will be set.

Yes

I'm kind of on the fence if I want to get this DVR or the Pannasonic EH55S. I like the idea of being able to move the files from the HD to a DVD with the Panny. The price though is higher then I would like to pay at the moment. The HR20 seems like a nice deal at $399, but am still unsure if I want to pay X amount per month to use it, or am I wrong on that?
Are you comparing the Panny to the HR20? One is HD the other is not.

Can anyone confirm or add to this post? I'm trying to figure out if I should upgrade now or wait - I only had the HR10-250 installed a few months ago. thanks.



Just got off the phone with customer retention. I just got 2 H20s two months ago because I really wanted the RSN (FSNBayArea), she said no problem to me switching out one of them for the new HR20 at $19.95 installed.

No luck trying to squeeze a 2nd HR20 out of them for free, though she did offer a 2nd one at 1/2 off. Not bad.

My scheduled install is 9/14, I'll let you know how it goes.

I've been a D* sub for 7 years and have "preferred" status, for those of you hoping to get the same deal.

I've been a D* sub for 7 years and have "preferred" status, for those of you hoping to get the same deal.

Oh Yeah..... I have been with D for over 10 years, full package, Football, all of it. Furthermore D's placed me in the Super Secret Perferred Status! I get Massages from the El Segundo Office from a Hot Blond named Heidi! Happy Endings?;)

Just got off the phone with customer retention. I just got 2 H20s two months ago because I really wanted the RSN (FSNBayArea), she said no problem to me switching out one of them for the new HR20 at $19.95 installed.

No luck trying to squeeze a 2nd HR20 out of them for free, though she did offer a 2nd one at 1/2 off. Not bad.

My scheduled install is 9/14, I'll let you know how it goes.

I've been a D* sub for 7 years and have "preferred" status, for those of you hoping to get the same deal.

I dont understand how you are getting the HR20 around the bay area. I have called 3x and everytime I call they tell me that the HR20 is not available yet. I have even asked them to come out and install the 5 LNB dish and the response I get is that since the HR20 is not released yet, I can not get the 5 LNB installed. At which I respond to with saying what if I were to order the H20. Then, their response is that I shold buy the dish from Best Buy. These people are unbelievable!!! I have had directv for 5+ years and am a preferred customer but these responses are just ridiculous.

Is there a preferred customer phone line?

I dont understand how you are getting the HR20 around the bay area. I have called 3x and everytime I call they tell me that the HR20 is not available yet. I have even asked them to come out and install the 5 LNB dish and the response I get is that since the HR20 is not released yet, I can not get the 5 LNB installed. At which I respond to with saying what if I were to order the H20. Then, their response is that I shold buy the dish from Best Buy. These people are unbelievable!!! I have had directv for 5+ years and am a preferred customer but these responses are just ridiculous.

Is there a preferred customer phone line?

It sounds like you are talking to the regular csr's. You should be talking to retention.

I dont understand how you are getting the HR20 around the bay area. I have called 3x and everytime I call they tell me that the HR20 is not available yet. I have even asked them to come out and install the 5 LNB dish and the response I get is that since the HR20 is not released yet, I can not get the 5 LNB installed. At which I respond to with saying what if I were to order the H20. Then, their response is that I shold buy the dish from Best Buy. These people are unbelievable!!! I have had directv for 5+ years and am a preferred customer but these responses are just ridiculous.

Is there a preferred customer phone line?


They don't know what they are talking about. I got an H20 and 5 lnb in December.

Need a recorder though to replace my Ultimate TV and move the H20 to other tv...hope I can get it half price.....

Oh, and when I called to order the H20 and 5 lnb dish, I signed up for another 2 years and paid a total of 15 dollars and change for everything.

I dont understand how you are getting the HR20 around the bay area. I have called 3x and everytime I call they tell me that the HR20 is not available yet. I have even asked them to come out and install the 5 LNB dish and the response I get is that since the HR20 is not released yet, I can not get the 5 LNB installed. At which I respond to with saying what if I were to order the H20. Then, their response is that I shold buy the dish from Best Buy. These people are unbelievable!!! I have had directv for 5+ years and am a preferred customer but these responses are just ridiculous.

Is there a preferred customer phone line?


800-824-9081 is the number I called for customer retention. Don't ask for it, tell them that you were told by a previous csr that they would upgrade you when it became available. Good Luck.

Read the posts here. You can -NOT- get the regular D* csr's to schedule installs of the HR20 outside of the LA area. You -HAVE- to call customer retention. Anything else is a waste of time.

Oh Yeah..... I have been with D for over 10 years, full package, Football, all of it. Furthermore D's placed me in the Super Secret Perferred Status! I get Massages from the El Segundo Office from a Hot Blond named Heidi! Happy Endings?;)

:D That's funny! Actually, the csr that gave me the deal's name IS Heidi!!! I didn't want to gloat, but my DOUBLE super secret preferred status has brought me many happy endings!!! ;)

So what kind of "free" upgrades have people been able to get?

I have a couple of DTivos (SD) and a Samsung HDTV box.

Been a customer forever but never subscribed to Sunday Ticket. But pay over $70 for a package which includes HBO.

Ok, here is my experience in dealing with customer retention today. Currently I have the H10, and a regular receiver. I have been with DTV for 4 years and still have one year left on a contract for the HD service I signed up for last fall.

This past weekend I got a new plasma TV (Hitachi) and I got a DTV receiver from bestbuy for $99. I assumed it was a H10 like I already have. Last night I checked out these forums and saw posts on the H20 and the HR20 and decided to see what kind of deal I would get. Then I looked at my new receiver box (unopened) and it said it was H20.

I called retention twice this morning and they said the only way to get the H20 or HR20 for the Cincinnati area was through bestbuy. They told me the best deal available was $399 for the HR20 through BestBuy. Plus another $99 for the new dish and install. I could use the H20 with the dish I have now, but ut would not be able to receive local channels because they are only available on MPEG4. I was not ready to pay that price.

I called back this afternoon and spoke with a different retention agent. I told her that I needed a new receiver for my new TV and was checking out the best deals I could get through DTV and that I was checking out Time Warner as well. She asked what kind of receiver I wanted and I said I preferably wanted one with DVR. She said they have the new DVR coming out shortly and I told her I was interested in the new DVR which is the HR20. She asked if she could put me on hold so she could check out the specials. She then came back a few minutes later and said the HR20 will be coming out the end of the September and that she could give it to me for $199 + 19.99$ install fee plus $10 off my bill for 6 months. I told her that was acceptable to me and she said that she would note the offer on my account and that I would have to call the end of the month to get it scheduled for install. I heard somewhere that BestBuy has the exclusive on this product outside the LA area until Sept 11th. I will call back next week and see if I can schedule an install.

As a side not, I told her I did not have a phone line in my house and absolutely would not install a line and she said that was not a problem, that the receiver gets everything it needs through the satellite.

I am happy. I get the unit for less than half price. Just thought I would share my experience.

Many thanks to all those who have posted the good advice...

I wasn't even aware that it was available yet in the SF area, but after reading the last couple pages, I gave retention a call, and got hooked up with an HR20 for just the 20 bucks shipping. Install date of 9/14 (same as you, Antioch guy- Martinez here). The lady I spoke to was very nice, and gave me absolutely no hassle at all. It was by far the most painless experience I have had with D* when it comes to upgrades. Not sure if it was mainly because I have been a Sunday Ticket sub since '98 (and superfan this year and last), but that didn't always help me in the past.

I have called customer retention 4 times and each time they tell me that the HR20 is not available in my area. I live in Vallejo. How are you other guys in the bay area getting them to set up an install date? The best I got out of them was my last call. I had to haggle with the guy and he told me if I got it from Best Buy or them (which I can't get from them yet) they would credit me $299, he said that was the price of the unit. I said great. Now I go online to look at Best Buy and the price is $399. Not only that but none of the stores in my area have the unit in stock. What gives? I really wanted it before the foootball season starts. I have ST and SF and was really looking forward to having the highlights downloaded to my dvr to watch.

Mixed messages from D* are nothing new. It seems like you could call 10 times and get 10 different stories. When I called earlier, she said that her system showed it as being available in the L.A. market only, but I persisted, and she went and talked with her supervisor. Upon returning, she told me that her supervisor informed her that as of today they were available nationwide and proceeded to set up my order and install date.

Keep hammering away-you'll eventually get an answer you like.

I have a unit now and installed from just outside Chicago. It is working perfectly fine. :)

Read the posts here. You can -NOT- get the regular D* csr's to schedule installs of the HR20 outside of the LA area. You -HAVE- to call customer retention. Anything else is a waste of time.


yeah well that's not going so swimmingly either. so far i've called retention 6 times, and each and every time they insist it's not available outside of LA. they have no problem giving it to me for free ($19.99 shipping), but absolutely insist it's not available in NY and they CANNOT order it...

Not only that vurbana, but as everyone is all too aware, the HR20-700 isn't even available yet either. Well, at least not for the majority of D*'s customers, and definitely not for me...

My apologies to all of you valiant defenders of D*. :)

Just as an update, HR20 installed today - so far so good! 3 weeks as promised!

yeah well that's not going so swimmingly either. so far i've called retention 6 times, and each and every time they insist it's not available outside of LA. they have no problem giving it to me for free ($19.99 shipping), but absolutely insist it's not available in NY and they CANNOT order it...


Well after my 10th call I finally got an install date. Sat. Sept 16th. The last woman I spoke to had the same response as all the other csr's. The only difference was she actually looked into it further. When I told her I knew people in my area were getting it installed she attempted to call the local installer in my area. She was never able to get in contact with them but she set up an install date anyway. She placed the hr20-700 on the work order and said if they have it they will install it. If they don't they will just reschedule. I told her I was sure they would have it and thanked her immensely for her help. By the way I am a 7 year customer, I currently don't have a dvr just the h20, I am considered a prefered customer, and have ST and SF. The deal I got was a free hr20, just had to pay the $19.95 s&h. Also got the HD package free for 4 months. She was even going to send out a 5 LNB dish but I told her I already had one. As a side note I was already receiving a $20 a month credit and a $50 instant credit from when I ordered ST & SF. The deals are out there people, just be persistent. Thanks to all the guys posting in these forums. You guys have really been a big help. :cool:

:D That's funny! Actually, the csr that gave me the deal's name IS Heidi!!! I didn't want to gloat, but my DOUBLE super secret preferred status has brought me many happy endings!!! ;)

But as you said, she would not give you the double discount ;)

For all you folks getting installs - make SURE you let the system download the software update ASAP. Otherwise, you will be in for a long succession of reboots. The updates fix this.

Well after my 10th call I finally got an install date. Sat. Sept 16th. The last woman I spoke to had the same response as all the other csr's. The only difference was she actually looked into it further. When I told her I knew people in my area were getting it installed she attempted to call the local installer in my area. She was never able to get in contact with them but she set up an install date anyway. She placed the hr20-700 on the work order and said if they have it they will install it. If they don't they will just reschedule. I told her I was sure they would have it and thanked her immensely for her help. By the way I am a 7 year customer, I currently don't have a dvr just the h20, I am considered a prefered customer, and have ST and SF. The deal I got was a free hr20, just had to pay the $19.95 s&h. Also got the HD package free for 4 months. She was even going to send out a 5 LNB dish but I told her I already had one. As a side note I was already receiving a $20 a month credit and a $50 instant credit from when I ordered ST & SF. The deals are out there people, just be persistent. Thanks to all the guys posting in these forums. You guys have really been a big help. :cool:


yeah i know, be persistent. i'll tell you though. for someone who's given directv thousands upon thousands of dollars over the years, i shouldn't have to keep calling back retention like i was spinning a roulette wheel here. they either have it or they dont. if they dont they order it and schedule a date. to tell me that i have to get it at best buy only for $300-400 just to LEASE it is outrageous. the left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing, and it's frustrating the hell out of me.

Lease?

How much is the lease?

Is it different depending on whether you pay $400 at Best Buy or get the $20 shipping deal?

all directv hardware is leased now. what i mean is if you were to buy this thing for full retail price in best buy, you are leasing it and must return it to directv if/when you leave them. for $400, i say i own it. now, if all i'm paying is $20 shipping, they can gladly have it back if/when i leave. but not if i paid $400 for it.

Is there a monthly lease fee in addition to the $6 DVR fee and the $5 mirror fee?

I believe you can actually buy the thing from D*. The first (non retention) CSR offered a price of $799, dish not included.

Install October 1st!

Finally I got an HD-DVR!!!!!!!!!!!!

For all you folks getting installs - make SURE you let the system download the software update ASAP. Otherwise, you will be in for a long succession of reboots. The updates fix this.

Thank you, Sir. Will do. If for some reason it doesn't download automatically, 02468 at the welcome screen will force the download, correct?

Thank you, Sir. Will do. If for some reason it doesn't download automatically, 02468 at the welcome screen will force the download, correct?

Yes, that should do it. Although it will probably offer the update within minutes of activation.

Just tried calling to get an upgrade and the woman tried to charge me $399. I'm already leasing an HD-TIVO, why the heck would I pay that?

Is it just a matter of calling and calling until I get lucky?

They started at 399 with me...and I ended up getting it for free after a lot of chatting...

I haven't gotten any other deals through them since a 100 dollar rebate and some programming stuff when I went HD in Jan. of '05.

I called about 6 times to get an HR10-250 this summer and got nowhere....got this on my first shot. The CSR was a sweetheart from Alabama.

This msg is for anyone who can help me.

I have the HR10-250 that I bought two years ago for $1,000. I've been very happy with it except for its slow response time and lengthy "Please wait" screens. I receive all HD local broadcasts via my OTA antenna and am not interested in receiving them via satellite.

What compelling reason is there for me to upgrade to the HR20-700? The main difference that I see between the HR10 and the HR20 is that the HR20 can decode MPEG4 programs. From what I understand, MPEG4 is used only for local channels transmitted via satellite. Am I right or wrong about this?

If I'm right, and I'm not interested in receiving local channels via satellte, then why would I need MPEG4? Will future HD satellite channels require MPEG4 decoding? If so, then I see the need. Some of the other issues I've seen discussed, such as the lack of dual buffering, don't matter to me.

One thing I don't like about the HR20, although I haven't tried it, is the remote. I love the layout and feel of the TiVo remote and can easily use it without looking. The HR20 remote is a lot different.

I'd like to hear mainly from anyone who has upgraded from the HR10 to the HR20 and whether or not they think it was worth it - even if the upgrade was free.

This msg is for anyone who can help me.

What compelling reason is there for me to upgrade to the HR20-700?


None. Especially since the OTA tuners on the HR20s are not enabled yet.

Will future HD satellite channels require MPEG4 decoding?


Eventually (probably at least a year from now.) Currently the only thing up in MPEG4 (other than LiL) are some of the HD regional sports nets, and these are on spotbeams so you can forget about "out-of-market" reception.

Thanks. I think I'll keep what I have until I'm forced to upgrade to receive more HD channels. Plus, I just checked the specs for the HR20 and it has two satellite tuners but only one ATSC tuner. I frequently record two OTA programs at the same time. The HR20 can't do that even if its ATSC tuner was activated.

Thanks. I think I'll keep what I have until I'm forced to upgrade to receive more HD channels. Plus, I just checked the specs for the HR20 and it has two satellite tuners but only one ATSC tuner. I frequently record two OTA programs at the same time. The HR20 can't do that even if its ATSC tuner was activated.

The "published" HR20 specs are wrong, there are two ATSC tuners and you will be able to record two OTA channels at the same time - this according to somebody (Earl aka ebonovic) that has actually peeked inside the case. That having been said, my plan is to wait until the H20/HR20s and AT9s are absolutely necessary. There's no sense incurring the 2yr "penalty" prematurely. :)

If you don't like the speed of the HR10, you would love the HR20. Faster channel changes, and zero "please wait" screens.

I upgraded for 400 bucks and I love it.

But after examining your needs, it is not for you!

This msg is for anyone who can help me.

I have the HR10-250 that I bought two years ago for $1,000. I've been very happy with it except for its slow response time and lengthy "Please wait" screens. I receive all HD local broadcasts via my OTA antenna and am not interested in receiving them via satellite.

What compelling reason is there for me to upgrade to the HR20-700? The main difference that I see between the HR10 and the HR20 is that the HR20 can decode MPEG4 programs. From what I understand, MPEG4 is used only for local channels transmitted via satellite. Am I right or wrong about this?

If I'm right, and I'm not interested in receiving local channels via satellte, then why would I need MPEG4? Will future HD satellite channels require MPEG4 decoding? If so, then I see the need. Some of the other issues I've seen discussed, such as the lack of dual buffering, don't matter to me.

One thing I don't like about the HR20, although I haven't tried it, is the remote. I love the layout and feel of the TiVo remote and can easily use it without looking. The HR20 remote is a lot different.

I'd like to hear mainly from anyone who has upgraded from the HR10 to the HR20 and whether or not they think it was worth it - even if the upgrade was free.

Thanks to a dirty little bastard burglar last week, I'm currently replacing my HD projector, screen and H10-250. I'm in Denver and the H20-700 is not yet available but I see that you can order it via Bestbuy online.

Since my insurance is providing me the $399.99 I would, of course, like to buy the latest and greatest. If I roder the H20-700 via Best buy and plug it in here in Denver, will it sill work? I understand that without the 5 LNB dish I won't get MPEG-4 but at least I'll be a step closer and the dish becomes available.

Hello everyone,

This is my first post. I've been a long time lurker, researching home theater audio systems, HDTV plasmas (thanks to the expertise on the site, I went with the Pioneer 5070), and now the HR20.

Let me first begin with the circumstances of how attained the HR20. Firstly, I live in Ft. Lauderdale and wasn't even aware that such a unit existed. Having newly purchased a 50 inch plasma, I moved my old 37 inch LCD to the bedroom along with the H10 that used to be in the family room, with the intention of seeing what DirecTV would do for me on an HD-DVR.

So I called DirecTV, spent a good 2 hours going from CSR to CSR until I was finally satisfied with their offer. I am an A+ member, and in exchange for purchasing the NFL Sunday Ticket program, they gave me a free lease on an HD-DVR, $5 off my total bill for 6 months, and $10 off my total bill for a year. This all took place on August 29, and they gave me an install date of September 6. Also, I made sure to request a 5LNB dish because I felt it practical to do so. Why have someone come out twice if I will eventually need that dish in the future anyhow?

Well, the installer came with the 5LNB dish and the HD-DVR just as scheduled. I was ecstatic with the novelty of the DVR. After the installer left, I checked out my station lineup and lo and behold! I now get HD local channels through my satellite. I wasn't even aware that they were offered in my area. I used to get them through an OTA antenna, but would get a lot of hiccups in the signal.

When watching HD signal on my new HR20-700s, I notice something funny about the picture quality. Sometimes, it seems like the framerate drops when I watch the new locals. It skips. It's so faint that I think I might be imagining it. But I'm not. Right now, I'm watching the Colts vs. Giants game on NBC-HD. But while the image quality seems crisper and sharper than watching a football game on ESPN-HD, it does seem to be different, more digitized and a little skippy. Is anyone else experiencing this? Is it some sort of glitch in the recording process or is it a problem inherent in the MPEG4 encoding?

Thanks in advance,
FlumLum

Do you NEED the 5 lnb dish to use the HR20? I have the older 3 lnb dish and dont really want to upgrade the dish just this moment. Sorry for the n00b question.

Do you NEED the 5 lnb dish to use the HR20? I have the older 3 lnb dish and dont really want to upgrade the dish just this moment. Sorry for the n00b question.

You do not need to use the 5 lnb dish, but you cannot get the local channels in hd or the local rsn's in hd in your area if they are available. The other hd channels will come in fine.

well as of right now I have the HR10 and I recieve the local channels in HD in channels 80-87 or something around that range. I would think I'd get those channels too since they are being broadcasted over satellite. Correct?

You do not need to use the 5 lnb dish, but you cannot get the local channels in hd or the local rsn's in hd in your area if they are available. The other hd channels will come in fine.


So the H20 will work fine in a market where it is not officially released?

I'm sort of in the same position as a previous poster. I got the HR10 over 2 years ago for $1000. I love it and use it all the time. I get all the HD locals OTA. When the time comes for me to switch out the boxes to a HR20 are they going to charge me $400 to "upgrade"?! I thought they were going to help out those who spent all that money on the box intially?

Vuce, I've heard ppl paying anywhere from 200 to the full 400 to upgrade. And ive heard of ppl getting it for free. So call directv and see what u can get them to do for you. It will probably take some effort to get it for free.

I am a customer in San Diego for 4 years. Called CR 800-824-9081 today and asked for an upgrade to HD. I currently own an old Phillips DVR (Tivo) with no HD, no HBO, etc. Nothing but regular programming.
The guy on the other end said I was a "good customer" for a "long time". I told him my "friends" had been "good customers" and were given the $19.95 deal. He said he'd check and sure enough, in a few minutes, he said I'd be given the $0 - pay $19.95 shipping for the whole package, HR20 and 5 LNB dish. A two year contract was mandatory, but 4 months free of HD programming (no Sunday ticket necessary).
He called the installation company to make sure they had the right equipment and verified an install in 13 days.
Thanks for this forum and all who posted - it paid off big for me.

my plan is to wait until the H20/HR20s and AT9s are absolutely necessary. There's no sense incurring the 2yr "penalty" prematurely. :)


yeah but look at it this way: if you start the 2yr penalty now, you'll be out before you know it and are free to test the provider waters that much quicker...

Just a question? Will the HR-20 still decode the Mpeg-2 HD? I got the free upgrade and it's a 20 but I live in an area where Locals in HD won't be available for a long time, maybe forever. I just don't want to have any issues if I take this upgrade. thanks

Yes, it will be fine for all the mpeg-2 stuff. That is what all the national HD channels (70-89) still use, as well as the sunday ticket feeds.

I am a customer in San Diego for 4 years. Called CR 800-824-9081 today and asked for an upgrade to HD. I currently own an old Phillips DVR (Tivo) with no HD, no HBO, etc. Nothing but regular programming.
The guy on the other end said I was a "good customer" for a "long time". I told him my "friends" had been "good customers" and were given the $19.95 deal. He said he'd check and sure enough, in a few minutes, he said I'd be given the $0 - pay $19.95 shipping for the whole package, HR20 and 5 LNB dish. A two year contract was mandatory, but 4 months free of HD programming (no Sunday ticket necessary).
He called the installation company to make sure they had the right equipment and verified an install in 13 days.
Thanks for this forum and all who posted - it paid off big for me.

Many thanks, mrg2k! I live in northern Virginia and have been a customer for about 5-6 years or so. I had to call the number that you posted twice, but, eventually, I got the same deal and am very happy.

The first D* CSR told me the HR20 was not available in my area, but that she could give me an HR10 for $399 with a promise that I would be given a "reasonable" offer for turning in my HR10 for an HR20 down the road. When pressed, she said that a "reasonable" offer would be about $99. :eek: I tried to explain to her that it didn't make sense for me to spend $399 now and then another $99 to upgrade in a month or so, and that I knew that other people were getting a better offer. She told me that the best she could do was a $100 credit. I politely declined and hung up.

I called back about a minute later and got a second D* CSR. She told me that the HR20 would be available in my area in a few weeks. She said that she could order it for me with an installation date about 2 weeks out, but that I should call back a few days before the installation to confirm that I would be getting an HR20. She then told me that it was $399, so I thought I was back where I was with the first CSR. :mad: However, when I told her that I knew people were getting a better deal, she started offering me credits. Finally, when it was at the point where she was offering the HR20 for $125 plus shipping and handling, she asked if that was good enough. When I said no, she said, "what kind of deal do you want?" I then said that I wanted the $19.95 deal that others were getting: I wanted the HR20 and new 5 lnb dish installed for a total of $19.95, free HD service for four months, and that I would be willing to make a 2-year commitment to get that deal. She hesitated for a few seconds and then said that she could give it to me since I've been a long-standing customer with a good history. :)

Anyway, many thanks to mrg2k and others on this forum who have posted similar stories. You gave me the information that I needed to get a good deal.

Does anyone on the east coast have a HR20-700 yet?

I am on the waiting list to get my free HR20-700 from D* but they wont ship it. They tell me I have to wait untill its available in my area (Wash DC) and they will have a D* tech bring it out. I have to get the 700 because (according to D*) the 250 wont record my local HD channels (just like the H10-250).

I was told if I bought it at BestBuy they would refund up to $300 (I already have the KaKU dish) so I am hoping to find out if anyone not on the west coast is using one of these yet?

Thanx to anyone with the knowledge to share...

Lookin' for some help here. I've never gotten a "deal" on anything from them before, but i called on Friday and we agreed they would put in a 5LNB dish, DVR, and a Multiswitch....Well, I just looked at my order, and the dish and DVR are on there, but I see nothing about the multiswitch....Is it assumed that the installer will be bringing a Multiswitch, or is it built in on the 5LNB dish?

Lookin' for some help here. I've never gotten a "deal" on anything from them before, but i called on Friday and we agreed they would put in a 5LNB dish, DVR, and a Multiswitch....Well, I just looked at my order, and the dish and DVR are on there, but I see nothing about the multiswitch....Is it assumed that the installer will be bringing a Multiswitch, or is it built in on the 5LNB dish?

There is one built in. You need a separate one only if you are using many receivers.

So the H20 will work fine in a market where it is not officially released?

Yes. I is available in BB here in CT, but not released by D* yet around here.

There is one built in. You need a separate one only if you are using many receivers.

I will need a minimum of 5 "outputs"...2 for the DVR, and 3 for the other 3 receivers in the house...6 if I keep all the receivers activated.

I will need a minimum of 5 "outputs"...2 for the DVR, and 3 for the other 3 receivers in the house...6 if I keep all the receivers activated.

I think it only supports 4 outputs, so you will need a multswitch for your setup.

I think it only supports 4 outputs, so you will need a multswitch for your setup.

I currently have a SD Tivo, an HD Receiver with 5LNB, and an SD receiver active. That equals 4 outputs. My HD DVR "install" is this friday, the 15th. I am replacing my HD receiver with the HD DVR. I will then have 5 outputs. I FULLY expect another multiswitch as part of the "install". Otherwise why would they "install" my HD DVR if they are not going to provide the basics to get signals to it? We will see, I guess.

Just in case any one missed it in the HDTV hardware forum, it appears that D* has now decided to recall all of the HR20s not yet installed. :(

HR20 recall reported (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=63907)

Thanks everyone for posting your experiences. I am not a ST or SF subscriber, just the regular package for 5+ years. Anyway, I called retention today, explained that I was in the market for an hd dvr. They told me about the hr20 and how it had just released in LA for $400 a pop, then said that I could call in next week and they would hook me up for $200 installed. After I fibbed a little and told them my local cable co. was offering hd dvr for free, he "checked with his supervisor" and said they would give me the $20 deal and even waived the $20! So, after all is said and done I'm getting:
hr20
5lnb dish
install
4 months hd pack
handling fee waived
3 months HB0 & showtime for $2
all on my first call

Thanks all!

Just in case any one missed it in the HDTV hardware forum, it appears that D* has now decided to recall all of the HR20s not yet installed. :(

HR20 recall reported (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=63907)The report is not true. Read the end of the thread.

I live in Los Angeles. Just got off the phone with a DTV retention person who swears up and down that only Best Buy and several local dealers can sell the HR20's in LA. That DirectTV themselves cannot sell the units right now. Told her I was an eight-year customer. It didn't matter to her. Told her about the bulletin board posts where people were ordering the HR20s through DirectTV. She said it couldn't be true. I'm a ST and SF subscriber with a HR250 box I've been complaining about since I've purchased it. Is it really as simple as calling retention over and over again until I hear what I want to hear? Could this woman really have given me this much misinformation?

yeah but look at it this way: if you start the 2yr penalty now, you'll be out before you know it and are free to test the provider waters that much quicker...

... except you never know if something's gonna happen tommorrow that could be the proverbial last straw ... ;) not that it matters, since the HR20 in it's current non-functional ATSC tuner state is kinda of useless around these parts anyway. :)

Does anyone on the east coast have a HR20-700 yet?

I am on the waiting list to get my free HR20-700 from D* but they wont ship it. They tell me I have to wait untill its available in my area (Wash DC) and they will have a D* tech bring it out. I have to get the 700 because (according to D*) the 250 wont record my local HD channels (just like the H10-250).

I was told if I bought it at BestBuy they would refund up to $300 (I already have the KaKU dish) so I am hoping to find out if anyone not on the west coast is using one of these yet?

Thanx to anyone with the knowledge to share...

same problem here in nyc. they absolutely refuse to send one to me. tomorrow is a new day, however, and i WILL be successful... :mad:

anyone know what the policy is for lifetime tivo subscriptions? I signed up for that way back when DirecTV first started selling Tivos and it's been a huge money saver. We have 6 Tivo's now (2 are HD tivos) and over time will replace them each with MPEG-4 capable HD-DVRs. Will we suddenly have to start paying a monthly DVR fee?

Is there a schedule somewhere of when MPEG-4 is going to roll out into the different markets?

And what ever happened to the plans for the DVR that was going have a bunch of inputs and let you watch your recorded shows from any of your tvs with thin clients? The system that originally was being developed for Zoom. Has that been abandoned or is it still in the works?

Will we suddenly have to start paying a monthly DVR fee?

Is there a schedule somewhere of when MPEG-4 is going to roll out into the different markets?

1) TiVo service has nothing to do with the HR20-700, so you should be able to reach the logical conclusion wrt monthly fees.

2) AFIAK, There are no specific dates announced for MPEG4 rollouts but there are lists over at www.dbstalk.com for both DBS providers

3) I have no idea about the home networked DVRs ....

it's true it's no longer a tivo, but I believe the lifetime tivo subscription was paid to D*, not directly to Tivo, so basically was a lifetime D* DVR subscription. I could make a case that DirecTV forcing me to switch away from Tivo should not end my lifetime subscription.

Good luck with that ...

same problem here in nyc. they absolutely refuse to send one to me. tomorrow is a new day, however, and i WILL be successful... :mad:


woohoo! as predicted, SUCCESS! installer will be here next wednesday to "install" the hr20. $20 "shipping" fee was the total cost.

they stood fast on their insistence that someone needs to come out rather than just shipping the damn thing, but i had had enough at that point and agreed. i may make him run a new line to the bedroom just as compensation...

I called to upgrade to the new HD-DVR. I live in Los Angeles.
For $19.95, I get:

A free 5 LNB oval dish, istalled
A free HD-DVR, installed.
Move the current HD receiver to another room.

THEN, when she asked if there was anything else she could do, I jokingly asked for a free subscription to the NFL Package. DONE! Unbelievable! :D

woohoo! as predicted, SUCCESS! installer will be here next wednesday to "install" the hr20. $20 "shipping" fee was the total cost.

they stood fast on their insistence that someone needs to come out rather than just shipping the damn thing, but i had had enough at that point and agreed. i may make him run a new line to the bedroom just as compensation...

I also have achieved success. The tech will be here on Friday Am to "install" my new HR20 (they just refuse to ship the thing). I will have everything ready so all he has to do is call in and get it online. I am very anxious to get this thing. I hope its worth the price.... OH WAIT, THATS RIGHT, I GET IT FOR FREE!!!

Whoo, friggin' Hooo :D

I called to upgrade to the new HD-DVR. I live in Los Angeles.
For $19.95, I get:

A free 5 LNB oval dish, istalled
A free HD-DVR, installed.
Move the current HD receiver to another room.

THEN, when she asked if there was anything else she could do, I jokingly asked for a free subscription to the NFL Package. DONE! Unbelievable! :D
WOW. Nicely done.

Best offer $149 plus shipping..I did not accept! Pls advise?

Dish were giving me free reciever/free installation, plus $350 for programming credit! Dumb me waited for DTV. If they dont give me free? I'll move to Dish, I guess

Apparently, once you get the retention department on the line, they look at your account history - prompt payments, length of service (over 10 years in my case), current package, etc, and I believe, based on some type of combination of parameters, most importantly LENGTH of service, they are able to offer different packages to different customers. When I initially had the CSR on the phone, I did not ask for anything, I simply stated I wanted to get a HD DVR. She said "ok, they are $399, but I can waive that for such a good customer."

I called to upgrade to the new HD-DVR. I live in Los Angeles.
For $19.95, I get:

A free 5 LNB oval dish, istalled
A free HD-DVR, installed.
Move the current HD receiver to another room.

THEN, when she asked if there was anything else she could do, I jokingly asked for a free subscription to the NFL Package. DONE! Unbelievable! :D


Sunday Ticket? or Superfan?

I got offered Superfan for "free" with my deal...so I decided to try out the ST for the first time...I love it, but had to pay for the "base ST" package.

If you got them to give you Sunday Ticket, I'm impressed.

it's true it's no longer a tivo, but I believe the lifetime tivo subscription was paid to D*, not directly to Tivo, so basically was a lifetime D* DVR subscription. I could make a case that DirecTV forcing me to switch away from Tivo should not end my lifetime subscription.
I have read somewhere (can't remember where right now) that our lifetime DirecTV DVR subscriptions carry over to the R15 and HR20 units without question. A quick call to DirecTV should confirm this.

Personally, I will wait as long as possible before gettinng an HR20, since we get our OTA HD locals just fine.

The report is not true. Read the end of the thread.
Thanks for the update, and the correction. Although the timestamp on my post is about an hour after the timestamp on Earl's message correcting the report, I didn't see his message posted there when I read the thread and I did read it as far as it went at that time. I'm glad it turned out to be a fabrication on the part of one of the sellers of the unit.

Best offer $149 plus shipping..I did not accept! Pls advise?

Dish were giving me free reciever/free installation, plus $350 for programming credit! Dumb me waited for DTV. If they dont give me free? I'll move to Dish, I guess

I am curious - since you are willing to switch to Dish just because they gave you a better deal, it is apparent you have no need for local HD programming. If that's the case, why are you even considering the HR20?

Anyone here gotten a good deal on an HR20 that already has the 5 lnb and H20? I got that for free but still have 15 months left on my required contract....but my ultimate tv is getting pretty damn old.

Anyone here gotten a good deal on an HR20 that already has the 5 lnb and H20? I got that for free but still have 15 months left on my required contract....but my ultimate tv is getting pretty damn old.


yep, that would be me. got switched over to the 5lnb dish and an h20 about two months ago for the cost of shipping ($19.99). actually that was my main point as to why they needed to give me the hr20 for free. when i originally wanted to upgrade to the 5lnb, i kept insisting i wanted an hd dvr. they wouldn't give me another tivo box and said the hr20 wasn't available yet, so the h20 would have to do.

when i called back yesterday i explained to them that it was the hr20 i wanted all along, and they should accomodate me. they agreed...

Man, any other tips or specifics to mention? I've said it all. even just plain said "I want this deal....."

I've gotten a $199 offer, but since then it has been "it's not availble yet except through bestbuy.com". I thought I had it, but he was offering the non-DVR model....what a let down.


I'm in Dallas, TX. Anyone else in Dallas have some luck?

seems so crazy. once someone gets a CSR on the line that knows what the deal is can we just conference call each other in and just deal with him/her? man, that would make my life easier.

I've been waiting since I got my first DTC-100 (way back when) for this....I'm so close.


ny

Sunday Ticket? or Superfan?

I got offered Superfan for "free" with my deal...so I decided to try out the ST for the first time...I love it, but had to pay for the "base ST" package.

If you got them to give you Sunday Ticket, I'm impressed.

I got the $249 Sunday Ticket for free AND Superfan.

Just got the hr20 for $19.99 installed Friday between 1 - 5 in Owasso, OK. He assured me it got locals OTA with the HR20. I tried to tell him it didn't, but he insisted it did, and was even going to throw in a free OTA antenna. They system wouldn't let him add the antenna, so I know it doesn't get them. When they show up on Friday, I'm going to blow a gasket that I can't get my locals in HD like I can with my current HD300. I smell some programming credits coming my way!

I already got $20 off for 6 months because of the TNT-HD issue.

I picked up the hr20-700 last Friday and the OTA is disabled for now, possible software update coming in October. Is your city on the list from directv to get hd locals through the satellite in mpeg 4? The installers don't know alot right now, I had a tech out to look at my hr20 yesterday and he had never seen the receiver and said they don't even have these in the warehouse. My hr20 is working pretty good right now though.
jdmac29
Just got the hr20 for $19.99 installed Friday between 1 - 5 in Owasso, OK. He assured me it got locals OTA with the HR20. I tried to tell him it didn't, but he insisted it did, and was even going to throw in a free OTA antenna. They system wouldn't let him add the antenna, so I know it doesn't get them. When they show up on Friday, I'm going to blow a gasket that I can't get my locals in HD like I can with my current HD300. I smell some programming credits coming my way!

I already got $20 off for 6 months because of the TNT-HD issue.

No, Owasso gets Tulsa, OK locals. They were one of the last for D* to activate. It'll be next spring at the earliest.

yep, that would be me. got switched over to the 5lnb dish and an h20 about two months ago for the cost of shipping ($19.99). actually that was my main point as to why they needed to give me the hr20 for free. when i originally wanted to upgrade to the 5lnb, i kept insisting i wanted an hd dvr. they wouldn't give me another tivo box and said the hr20 wasn't available yet, so the h20 would have to do.

when i called back yesterday i explained to them that it was the hr20 i wanted all along, and they should accomodate me. they agreed...

Cool, thank you much...I'll give them a call.


...or five

Just for asking the first person I spoke with they offered to upgrade me to the DirecTV Plus HD DVR for $99. The catch is they want to take my H10-250. Thanks but no thanks, I want to give that one to my kids and get Sponge Bob off my system.

Otherwise it was $299.

I am a 2+ year subscriber of DirectTV. Never had ST but have had the Baseball Extra Inning package for 2.5 years. Have only had the TC Plus package. I have two SD Tivo units, two basic SD units, and the H20 for two months I bought at Costco for $85.

My first call a week ago to Retention, I was told by a nice Rep that it was not available yet in my area, except through Best Buy, but that she would give the HR20 to me for $250 and $10 off for the next 12 months. I told her about the deals I had seen on the web, but that was it.

Today, my 2nd call, I was told right off the bat that it had just been released today and the new price on the HR20 was now officially $299. After all was said and done, I got it for $150 plus tax and $19.95 S&H, and $10 off bill for 12 months, and $10 off HD pack for 4 months. I get to keep my H20 as long as I use it or turn it in, but he said I could not return it to Costco.

Also, I get the LNB5 dish and install too. That's the story.

I just signed up for D* and the guy told me that today was the day that they started releasing the HR20 to everyone :D , so I got it and another regular dvr for my SD TV for a total of ~210.00 and a free IPOD shuffle. The HR20 was 199 after the 100 instant off, and he somehow got an instant rebate for my other dvr so it was free. I was unable to get that price online - the web was giving me issues so I called the number on the web page where I was putting in my order and they put me through and got me set up. :cool: There system was really slow tonight, I'm thinking that the word has gotten out.

Matt

I'm gonna call D* today! Get rid of one of my H20's

Does this receiver REQUIRE a phone line? Or, is it like all the rest where they tell you that, but you don't really need it?

I got the e-mail telling me the HR-20 was now available to me and called first thing. The first CSR told me the best she could do was $299-minus a $50 discount. I asked to be transferred to Retention and got a sweetheart CSR. Because I want to keep my HR10, the deal I got was to pay the $299 plus shipping and tax, then I'd get a $100 mail in rebate plus she credit my account $199. So, it cost me about $34 to get it. It will be installed on 9/30. If the installer shows up, that is. I've had previous problems with these guys just not showing up.

I got the e-mail telling me the HR-20 was now available to me and called first thing. The first CSR told me the best she could do was $299-minus a $50 discount. I asked to be transferred to Retention and got a sweetheart CSR. Because I want to keep my HR10, the deal I got was to pay the $299 plus shipping and tax, then I'd get a $100 mail in rebate plus she credit my account $199. So, it cost me about $34 to get it. It will be installed on 9/30. If the installer shows up, that is. I've had previous problems with these guys just not showing up.

It sounds like your local installer is Halsted.

Phone line needed for only ordering PPV with remote.


Does this receiver REQUIRE a phone line? Or, is it like all the rest where they tell you that, but you don't really need it?

Great...thank you. As this is my first DVR/TiVo, I wasn't sure if those functions would require a phone line.

I called and ordered mine today and it will be installed on Saturday here in Atlanta. She offered it to me for $299 at first but I asked if she could go lower since I have been with D***TV for 10 years. So she said $199 was the best she could do. I took it considering I did not have an HR10 previously installed. Heck, my previous SD D***TV Tivo unit cost me $250 a few years ago.

How much bigger is the new dish again?

Does it require a new multiswitch which will support the new DVR as well as my SD Tivos?

It sounds like your local installer is Halsted.
No, actually it's DirecTech out of Avon.

Directv is FORCING me to get a new HR20 HD DVR on saturday.

I just moved and set up the movers connection for today, but they cancelled because "they didn't have my equipment" yet. I asked what they were talking about, and they told me I was getting a HD DVR but they were out of stock today. I told them I didn't want one or ask for one and they could just hook up my HD Tivo to the new dish.

That's when things got ugly. They told me they weren't allowed to hook up HD Tivos to the 5lnb dish because it was D*'s rule. He even told me the HD Tivo wouldn't work with the new wiring (which sounded like BS, but I'm no wire expert). He said it's some wire set up for more powerful audio and video or some nonsense (Anybody see a difference in wiring with the new setup?)

So I just got p*ssed off and told him I'd bring my old 3lnb dish and they could set me up with that instead.. they "couldn't" cause that meant changing the ticket order.

So one FRIGGIN hour later on hold... And they're crediting me a bunch of credits for my complaining, coming saturday to hook up the new HD DVR and a standard Mpg 4 receiver at no charge (for installation or the receivers) and they aren't taking my old HD Tivo because I own it. (and I will be promptly hooking it up to the new sat dish to see if they were full of crap)

So I guess I can't complain too much. I'll let you guys know how the HR20 compares with the 10-250. They aren't taking my Tivo, that's for sure. That's mine, I paid for it.

So it seems like if you move and you have a hd tivo, they will set you up with a free HR20 (so far it seems free, I'll raise hell if it isn't)

Anyone know why TIVO did'nt make the Series 3 unit satellite compatible? The Series 2 TIVO units are. I know D***TV chose not to use their DVR anymore but that does not restrict TIVO from making theirs compatible with satellite does it? If TIVO decided not to make it compatible on their own then it seems like they made a big mistake, alot of D***TV customers will be lost. I'm looking forward to my HR20 on Saturday, but I think I am going to miss my TIVO and I guess for good since I will never go back to cable.

had to pay full price for mine+tax+shipping with CC but they credited my account the total amount and I got to keep my HDTivo. Install set for tues in MD.Im returning my H20 after install.

Directv is FORCING me to get a new HR20 HD DVR on saturday.

....

That's when things got ugly. They told me they weren't allowed to hook up HD Tivos to the 5lnb dish because it was D*'s rule. He even told me the HD Tivo wouldn't work with the new wiring (which sounded like BS, but I'm no wire expert). He said it's some wire set up for more powerful audio and video or some nonsense (Anybody see a difference in wiring with the new setup?)


This is complete nonsense; I have three generations of DVRs (Sony SA-T60, Hughes HR10, & D* HR20) hooked to my AT9, and they all work perfectly. If you have more than four tuners (two per DVR), you will need the the Zinwell WB68 broadband multiswitch - mine was added to my work order when I asked for it (and, like the Dish, it was free). With the WB68, the four cables from the AT9 can provide signal to up to eight tuners. D* gave me no trouble whatsoever about keeping my older TiVos online.
.....


So I guess I can't complain too much. I'll let you guys know how the HR20 compares with the 10-250. They aren't taking my Tivo, that's for sure. That's mine, I paid for it.

So it seems like if you move and you have a hd tivo, they will set you up with a free HR20 (so far it seems free, I'll raise hell if it isn't)

Do complain - they will activate your HR10 & give you free programing for your trouble, if you yell loudly enugh.


regards, billb....

got my HR20 for almost a week now and already i've noticed some bugs;

1. i recorded a football game in HD, yet it never showed up on my 'list' at first. then eventually it did, only to have only about 30 secs recorded. i originally thought i made a boo boo but with the other bugs i've found, i don't think this is the case.

2. i tried to schedule a record for prison break and vanished in hd. the scheduler showed starting at 8:18pm and 9:18pm. i thought this was just some funky timing thing. turns out, the shows got recorded almost midway through, sure enough at around 8:18 and 9:18.

3. the fan on the unit remains on even AFTER you power it down. quite loud at night with everything turned off. the only way to shut off the fan is to disconnect the power.

otherwise, i do like the unit quite a bit. its quick, menu's are very clean and nice, etc. i've left the unit on even after leaving the house now hoping it would get a software update to remedy these issues. crossing fingers.

for what its worth, i got this unit + the 5LNB dish + the 4 x 8 switch for $20 (handling). i am able to get locals in HD with this unit and the 5lnb dish.

anyone else experiencing some bugs?

how does the pq of the mpeg 4 ompare to the pq of mpg 2?

Monday I was told $250 off the HR20 was the best they could do. I called back yesterday and was told that the price had already dropped from $400 down to $300. I still got the $250 off, but they also included $10 off HBO for the next 6 months. This includes installation of the 5 LNB dish along with a multi-switch and I have to pay tax and shipping.

Later last night I called to have my new H20 activated. I upgraded from the middle package to premier. I received 4 free months of HD and Superfan for free. No commitment on how long I'll keep premier, but was told there is a 2 year commitment for all HD receivers.

I'm happy... Thanks for everyone's help!

Sully

BTW, I'm in Clayton, NC (near Raleigh)...

Just wondering if there was any way around to not have to pay the leased fee every month on the HR20 receiver? say, if you bought the receiver elsewhere or something?

I had dvr previously when i signed up lsat year through sunday ticket deal but since i upgraded to HD, i didnt get dvr with it since it was too expensive. now i kinda miss being able to pause one game while watching another or just pausing live tv period. and with the hr20, seems tempting to upgrade :)

right now, i have the h20 + 5lnb dish (got it since june/july)

how does the pq of the mpeg 4 ompare to the pq of mpg 2?


From switching back and forth between the network feeds (Mpeg2) vs. local channel HD (Mpeg4) on Sunday NFL, I thought the Mpeg4 was sharper, more saturated and had considerably less grain.

Well I called and they offered to let me lease it for $299 plus $20. They really looked into my location for awhile (Santa Clara County).

I wouldn't own the equipment but I would have to pay $300 up front. I pointed out my cable company leases their HD DVR with no upfront costs. "Victoria" said "Well that's their policy, not our policy."

I guess being a customer for well over 5 years, paying $73 a month doesn't qualify me as a good enough customer to get the free deals some of the other AVS members have been reporting here.

Anyone know why TIVO did'nt make the Series 3 unit satellite compatible? .

Thats a real good question. I was all ready for fork out $799 plus another $199 to transfer my subscription, when I found out it wont even change the channels on a satellite receiver, let alone record hd from it, so I called DirecTv and found out they just released their HR20 HD DVR, and they offered me a $150 credit, $10 off my bill for 12 months, and a free 5 lnb dish installed in two days, if I would drive to my local Best Buy and pay $299 for one. That was a no brainer for me, I drove right down there. Works great. HD looks great, records HD great. Since the local ATSC tuner software isnt installed yet, and I cant get locals on it, DirecTv enabled my locals in SD, and turned in a waiver request for national HD feeds to get my by until the tuner is activated. Ive always had a Tivo, but they lost me when they tried to force me to digital (1/2 analog) cable. I wont do it.

I agree I think TIVO really screwed up on this one. I have always sung their praises and would have paid extra to have their unit over the HR20 simply because I feel the product was exceptional. I think I may have heard that TIVO signed an agreement or something with the cable companies, or maybe that is just a rumor, but it doesn't really make sense since the Series 2 could work with cable or satellite. The only thing I can think of is maybe the MPEG4 compression may have complicated things. Still I am disappointed that I have to say goodbye to TIVO, it is unfortunate if they have gone to the darkside (i.e. cable). Glad to hear you like the HR20 though, hopefully it will be a worthy replacement to TIVO.

My bugs have been mostly sound problems. Changing channels sometimes I get sound sometime I don't. Does not matter if it is HDMI, rca cable, or fiber optic.
I did get home yesterday and hit the power button and I did not have a picture and nothing would function so I hit reset and about 5 or 10 minutes later everythign was fine. This is my 2nd go around with the sound, tonight I will unplug the unit for a few minutes and plug it back in, I did this before and that fixed the sound. So far it has recorded everything I have asked. I have hit record while watching live tv and then hit rewind and then play and sometime the sound does not come on, I hit rewind a little farther and then hit play and it is there.
Hopefully next software will fix some of these issues. I am really happy with the unit since this is my first dvr, I just feel it will take awhile to get the bugs out. My understanding when directv introduced the h10-250 tivo hd dvr it had problems at first also. My fan runs constantly too, also my hard drive makes noises like it is writing something to it and that is when nothing is being recorded. Heck it has a 90 day warranty. I like the menus too, this is my first directv branded receiver, before I had rca, hughes, and samsung.
Let us know if the new software fix takes care of your problems.


got my HR20 for almost a week now and already i've noticed some bugs;

1. i recorded a football game in HD, yet it never showed up on my 'list' at first. then eventually it did, only to have only about 30 secs recorded. i originally thought i made a boo boo but with the other bugs i've found, i don't think this is the case.

2. i tried to schedule a record for prison break and vanished in hd. the scheduler showed starting at 8:18pm and 9:18pm. i thought this was just some funky timing thing. turns out, the shows got recorded almost midway through, sure enough at around 8:18 and 9:18.

3. the fan on the unit remains on even AFTER you power it down. quite loud at night with everything turned off. the only way to shut off the fan is to disconnect the power.

otherwise, i do like the unit quite a bit. its quick, menu's are very clean and nice, etc. i've left the unit on even after leaving the house now hoping it would get a software update to remedy these issues. crossing fingers.

for what its worth, i got this unit + the 5LNB dish + the 4 x 8 switch for $20 (handling). i am able to get locals in HD with this unit and the 5lnb dish.

anyone else experiencing some bugs?

The 8:18 Prison Break/9:18 Vanished "Bug" was due to President Bush's 9/11 address.

Last second rescheduling (often due to political appearances) commonly plays havoc on DVR users, so I wouldn't pin this one on the HR20.

I've had nothing but problems since I moved (new installs and whatnot), but now everything's working... but only SD locals. I want to switch to the HR20, but I fear the bugs will make my life more interesting, and less fun. Still, I'd love to get my shows in HD again. Grumble. Stupid Mpeg4.

Well I called a second time and they offered no discount so I asked how could I get the free deals like so many others. She checked and offered me $10 off HBO for 6 months and $10 off Total Choice for 12 months so the net price would be $120 plus $20 shipping.

I took it (for now because the AT9 dish may present a problem for my townhome).

I guess Total Choice and HBO (and 3 receivers for a total of $73 a month) just does not rate me enough to be a good enough customer to get more of a discount.

Anyways, my 3-LNB oval is on a wall mount and it's 18x24. The AT9 is 24x29 and said to be heavier so it may not be mountable on the wall? Anyone finding this to be the case?

They put mine in the ground and quik-creted it in. I got it for $99 plus shipping/handling, the first guy said he could knock 100 off of the price and I told him to let me talk to retention. Those are the only people who can get stuff done around D*, they're like the special forces of D*.

I just got my HR20 installed about a half hour ago. Woo hoo! I seem to be having an issue, however. For some reason, the signal from the HR20 refuses to get to my TV when I hook it up via the HDMI cable. On component, it is fine, though. I have a 50 inch Samsung DLP (HLP 5063 if I am remembering correctly). I never had a single issue with HDMI when my HR10-250 was there, but now all I get is either "no signal" or some other message, something to the effect of "unsupported connection". This is my TV displaying these messages, not the HR20. I have the resolution output set to 720p as well.

Has anyone else experienced anything like this with the HR20?

I just got my HR20 installed about a half hour ago. Woo hoo! I seem to be having an issue, however. For some reason, the signal from the HR20 refuses to get to my TV when I hook it up via the HDMI cable. On component, it is fine, though. I have a 50 inch Samsung DLP (HLP 5063 if I am remembering correctly). I never had a single issue with HDMI when my HR10-250 was there, but now all I get is either "no signal" or some other message, something to the effect of "unsupported connection". This is my TV displaying these messages, not the HR20. I have the resolution output set to 720p as well.

Has anyone else experienced anything like this with the HR20?

Didn't the installer take care of that? You may have a bad Box?

Does the HR20 come with an HDMI-to-DVI adapter and cable?

Does it come with component cables?

Didn't the installer take care of that? You may have a bad Box?

He only had 2 HR20's with him. The first one we hooked up kept locking up, so he got the other one. Neither one was outputting a picture (or sound) over HDMI. Works fine using components, though. I just read a thread over at dbstalk.com specifically regarding the issues a lot of people are having with HDMI, so it isn't necessarily a "bad box".

wco- no, there was no HDMI-DVI cable in the box, or a regular HDMI cable, for that matter. The cheapo component video cables are included, however.

My installer called today at 2:15 for a 1-5 install and said the equipment didn't come in. Funny, they re-scheduled me for tomorrow morning. If it's not here now, how's it going to be here tomorrow morning?

I smell a ST and SF freebie coming.

I live in Florida and ordered my H20-700S online from BB last week. I got 2 emails within 3 days of order saying my item was on backorder. Today I got an email saying my item has shipped w/ tracking #. I guess this means the whole country can get them now....this may be late info for some of ya....just wanted to yell w00t!! w00t!! :) :D

I called DTV today and without saying anything they immediately offered the HR20 to me for 99 shiped / installed (I have been subscribing to them for 10 years with Center Ice for 10 years as well). The main reason I didn't go for it right away is that as far as I know the ASTC is still disabled. I watch quite a few shows (in HD) on WB / UPN which they don't offer - so unless I keep my HR10-250 active I will lose those channels in HD. So I told them thanks but no thanks.

Anyway, when I got home from work I had a message from DTV saying they value me as a customer, I have been a long time / loyal subscriber so asked me to call back to see if we can work something out. I am sure I can get it for free (just shipping) and/or some free HD programming. But my main reason for not getting it is the lack of ATSC support.

So my question is does anyone know if there is a timeframe when they plan to do a software update to enable the ASTC tuners?

I am going to call them back on Monday and if they offer it to me for free (just shipping) I will do it - but I don't want to keep the HR10-250 subscribed for WB/UPN (CW next week by me). I will try to see if I remove the access card if I can still get the OTA locals but was just wondering if anyone had any info on when they would enable the OTA tuner.

Does the HR20 come with an HDMI-to-DVI adapter and cable?

Does it come with component cables?

No HDMI-DVI adaptor...and no HDMI cable :(

Edit: Whoops! Basic RGB component cables...Thanks Davenlr

FarJo, they let me keep my old receivers. All I had to do was go to Best Buy, purchase the new DVR, and they gave me two hundred and seventy dollars credit on my bill, and threw in a free 5 lnb dish with installation. Cost me about $52 total, and I still have my old stuff, didnt have to contract for two years. Figured that was a good deal, since I really was getting sick of watching the HD shows in SD widescreen on my old Tivo. If I want to watch network HD, I just switch over to my old receiver and watch it live. DirecTv threw in my SD locals temporarily until the tuner gets activated, and also sent out waivers for the New York HD feeds, in case I qualify. All in all, Im very happy with the setup. It works great so far. No surprises. Im sure you can talk them into letting you keep your old receiver. I had to get to customer retention to get all the credits but it was worth the few hours on the phone.

wco, it comes with Video, and RGB component cables. No DVI or HDMI.

You would think HDMI cable would be cheaper to include than a set of component cables.

Then again, I guess component would be the lowest common denominator, something more people could use than HDMI.

Anyone know if the 5lnb dish is required for the new mpeg 4 birds/HD locals or if a 3lnb will work? When I placed my order (to be installed tomorrow) I asked for a 5lnb (I'm in LA) and she said no problem but on the confirmation letter they sent out it states a 3lnb dish. I only have two receivers, both of them will be DVR's but I may add a 3rd down the road.

I thought I read somewhere the 5lnb was required?

Thanks

From the picture of the back of the unit, I see there's a Serial ATA plug. Does that mean we can add a hard drive to expand storage?

http://www.directv.com/images/assets/Landing/HR20/HR20SpecSheet.pdf

edit: nevermind. I see at the bottom that says "for future use". Interesting prospect though. But, maybe 50 hrs of mpeg 4 HD recording might be adequate. The 30 hrs of the 10-250 was never adequate for me. I considered the Weaknees upgrades, but just couldn't stomach the price.

Anyone know if the 5lnb dish is required for the new mpeg 4 birds/HD locals or if a 3lnb will work? ... I thought I read somewhere the 5lnb was required?

Thanks

The receiver works fine with a 3 lnb dish, Im using it that way now. It asks during guided setup. As for Mpeg4, if the channels arent on the two new sats, it will work. If they are, you wouldnt be able to watch them. I dont know if the LA locals are on the old sats or the new ones. If they are on the new ones, you wont be able to receive them, and since the OTA tuners are not active, you would need another ATSC tuner to watch HD locals.

The receiver works fine with a 3 lnb dish, Im using it that way now. It asks during guided setup. As for Mpeg4, if the channels arent on the two new sats, it will work. If they are, you wouldnt be able to watch them. I dont know if the LA locals are on the old sats or the new ones. If they are on the new ones, you wont be able to receive them, and since the OTA tuners are not active, you would need another ATSC tuner to watch HD locals.

Anyone know if the SF HD locals are on the new satellites? I thought all the HD LIL MPEG4 channels were on the new satellites.

If they're not on the new satellites, they will be eventually right? Either additional HD LIL channels for each DMA (like PBS, WB, etc.) or new national HD channels?

I anticipate a difficult install for the AT9 but I assume that would be the future?

DirecTv threw in my SD locals temporarily until the tuner gets activated, and also sent out waivers for the New York HD feeds, in case I qualify.

So wait, when you get the HD locals they no longer provide the SD locals? That doesn't make any sense. Forgetting about the fact they only carry 4 of the dozens that they currently provide in SD but I would assume many subscribers have multiple receivers (I have 4) with the rest being SD receivers - so does that mean you would lose locals on the other receivers? Maybe I am misreading your statement so wanted to clarify.

So wait, when you get the HD locals they no longer provide the SD locals? That doesn't make any sense. Forgetting about the fact they only carry 4 of the dozens that they currently provide in SD but I would assume many subscribers have multiple receivers (I have 4) with the rest being SD receivers - so does that mean you would lose locals on the other receivers? Maybe I am misreading your statement so wanted to clarify.

Not sure about NY, however in the DFW market I get SD locals, MPEG4 locals, and DNS network HD feeds with my HR-20.

First of all, if they're only providing component, is there any content which gets downrezzed or isn't output through component? Maybe HBO?

Second, is there a S-video? Is that S-Video active at the same time the component or HDMI is being used?

It would be nice if you could connect both component/HDMI and S-Video so that for SD recordings, you switch the input to the one with S-Video. Then you can use the different zoom modes on the HDTV to stretch out the SD recordings or live broadcasts.

Anyone know if the SF HD locals are on the new satellites? I thought all the HD LIL MPEG4 channels were on the new satellites.

If they're not on the new satellites, they will be eventually right? Either additional HD LIL channels for each DMA (like PBS, WB, etc.) or new national HD channels?

I anticipate a difficult install for the AT9 but I assume that would be the future?
Yes, they are. KPIX, KNTV, KTVU, KGO and I believe KRON is also live in the bay area. Aslo, DirecTV is providing games-only from FSNBA-HD on channel 96. You will need the AT9 to receive those channels.

First of all, if they're only providing component, is there any content which gets downrezzed or isn't output through component? Maybe HBO?

Second, is there a S-video? Is that S-Video active at the same time the component or HDMI is being used?

It would be nice if you could connect both component/HDMI and S-Video so that for SD recordings, you switch the input to the one with S-Video. Then you can use the different zoom modes on the HDTV to stretch out the SD recordings or live broadcasts.
Whatever is passed through HDMI is also passed through component, no down-rezzing.

Yes, they are. KPIX, KNTV, KTVU, KGO and I believe KRON is also live in the bay area. Aslo, DirecTV is providing games-only from FSNBA-HD on channel 96. You will need the AT9 to receive those channels.


Hmm, in that case, I may be able to dump Comcast.

Although, I guess Comcast has the better pic. quality right?

Hmm, in that case, I may be able to dump Comcast.

Although, I guess Comcast has the better pic. quality right?
I haven't seen DirecTV's local HD yet. I know that Dish's local HD, also MPEG4 like DirecTV's, looked bad at first but it is really very decent now, not as quite as good as Comcast's, but very close.

Hmm, in that case, I may be able to dump Comcast.

Although, I guess Comcast has the better pic. quality right?

It depends on where you live; in southwest San Mateo (SF Bay area), Comcast HD pq is generally the pits. I had a Comcast box so I could get NBC HD (no OTA line of site, no waiver), and much of what I saw on it was awful beyond description. That box is now in the garage awaiting return to Comcast. Some of what I see on D* rivals the best OTA - and some is, indeed, HDlite. The MPEG4 locals aren't quite as good as the best SF Bay area OTA, but they aren't shabby, either.

I'm also starting to like my HR20; the user interface is inferior to the HR10, but it has its own charms. In particular, I like the speed and the 90 minute buffer. The pq is also marginally better than the HR10, and I'm eager to see what its OTA performance is like. I think I'll add a Weaknees 500GB upgrade to my HR10 & retire my old, tired SA-T60.


regards, billb....

I think it may not only be Comcast or the local stations here.

Today's Notre Dame game had a lot of noise, something that isn't uncommon on Foxsports BA.

Seems a lot of variance in HD feeds from various sources.

OK, I'm in Los Angeles, and the installer just left; up and running with the new HD-DVR, HR-20-700S. When I scroll the networks, I have 3 choices:

Local Channel 7 (SD, local ABC feed)
KABC (Also local ABC feed, channel 7, but the HD FEED)
Channel 83 (National ABC HD feed)

Question is: Which of the 2 HD channels is the new MPEG4 version???? :confused:

Hi All, I have read through all 15 pages of this post and I have seen this question asked 3 times, but no response as of yet. It appears as if the HR20 does not have a dual buffer. Does anyone know if the box has the capability and they will turn it on at future date or can be added by a software upgrade?

This is really a deal breaker for me on purchasing this box. Any help is appreciated. Thanks!!

~mike

OK, I'm in Los Angeles, and the installer just left; up and running with the new HD-DVR, HR-20-700S. When I scroll the networks, I have 3 choices:

Local Channel 7 (SD, local ABC feed)
KABC (Also local ABC feed, channel 7, but the HD FEED)
Channel 83 (National ABC HD feed)

Question is: Which of the 2 HD channels is the new MPEG4 version???? :confused:

The sd feed is obviously not the mpeg4 feed. Channel 83 is the CONUS feed, so it too is in mpeg2. The second one is the mpeg4 feed. In the guide you will have an ABC logo in the upper left hand corner instead of the D* logo.

Hi All, I have read through all 15 pages of this post and I have seen this question asked 3 times, but no response as of yet. It appears as if the HR20 does not have a dual buffer. Does anyone know if the box has the capability and they will turn it on at future date or can be added by a software upgrade?

This is really a deal breaker for me on purchasing this box. Any help is appreciated. Thanks!!

~mike

In the review I read it said that the dual buffers might be activated at some point, but there are no plans to for now.

Chip, thanks for the quick reply!

One more question: the HDMI connection looks REALLY bad in dark scenes; VERY inky, muddy, no shadow detail. MUCH, MUCH worse then the LG HD receiver box it replaced. Component image is MUCH better on then the HDMI connection. Weird. Why?

Yes, they are. KPIX, KNTV, KTVU, KGO and I believe KRON is also live in the bay area. Aslo, DirecTV is providing games-only from FSNBA-HD on channel 96. You will need the AT9 to receive those channels.

You are correct except for that KRON 4 is not live. It is pre-recorded hd content that they replay. I just got my HR20 installed today. This is my first DVR so I don't have anything to compare to. But I love it. I works great, set it to record COPS on KTVU 2 and went to get something to eat. Came home and voila! Two episodes of COPS in HD. Maybe it's just me but the picture seems beter on the HR20 compared to the H20. Also I used to have audio sync issues on the local HD channels but they are now gone. Anyone else see this?

I think it may not only be Comcast or the local stations here.

Today's Notre Dame game had a lot of noise, something that isn't uncommon on Foxsports BA.

Seems a lot of variance in HD feeds from various sources.

The delivery of HD from Comcast doesn't vary much where I am - it's consistently inferior. Where in the bay area do you live?


regards, billb....

You are correct except for that KRON 4 is not live. It is pre-recorded hd content that they replay. I just got my HR20 installed today. This is my first DVR so I don't have anything to compare to. But I love it. I works great, set it to record COPS on KTVU 2 and went to get something to eat. Came home and voila! Two episodes of COPS in HD. Maybe it's just me but the picture seems beter on the HR20 compared to the H20. Also I used to have audio sync issues on the local HD channels but they are now gone. Anyone else see this?
By "live" I meant that it was being provided by DirecTV to the SF market along with the 4 major net stations.

In the review I read it said that the dual buffers might be activated at some point, but there are no plans to for now.


Thanks Raul, so it appears as if the unit does have the capability then? Can anyone else confirm or supply a link of any reviews that mentions it?

Thanks again!

I'm in San Jose.

For all you deaf Home Theatre buffs, I hooked up my HR20 and hooked it into my amp with the Toslink, and it worked fine, but it just didnt sound as good as the HNS receiver it replaced. Just before Nascar today, I thought I would check it out, and find out what the problem was, turns out the Dolby Digital it turned OFF by default, and I was using Prologic. Just a heads up for anyone buying a new one, guided setup doesnt enable it by default.
Sounds 100% better now.

Damn they rescheduled me just 15 minutes before they were suppose to come out.

Now it's Thursday PM.

Damn they rescheduled me just 15 minutes before they were suppose to come out.

Now it's Thursday PM.

Same here, rescheduled to Tuesday. WTF?

Installers probably want to watch football. Surprised they even scheduled Sunday in the first place.

In many states, they can't do that without restitution. I know in California, missed/cancelled appointments without due notice results in a fine to paid to the customer.

I would nail them on it, as they don't necessarily remind you of the law.

What is due notice?

They called at 12:45 and they were suppose to be out between 1-5.

Depends on local law. I just tried a Google search, but can't seem to find the right keywords.

In California the law came about at frustrations towards cable installers. They no longer can say "sometime during the day", they have to narrow it down into six hour windows, along with repercussions for being late or last minute cancellations.

Even without the law, I would scream if they cancelled at the last minute. My time is valuable to me, and if I am going to wait around for somebody who decides at the last minute not to show, I think I should be compensated for the massive inconvenience.

Doctors/Dentists etc. have been doing it forever. Just try and cancel an appointment a few minutes before it is scheduled. You will be charged for the visit whether you are there or not.

OK, I'm in Los Angeles, and the installer just left; up and running with the new HD-DVR, HR-20-700S. When I scroll the networks, I have 3 choices:

Local Channel 7 (SD, local ABC feed)
KABC (Also local ABC feed, channel 7, but the HD FEED)
Channel 83 (National ABC HD feed)

Question is: Which of the 2 HD channels is the new MPEG4 version???? :confused:

It's the ones labeled 2 KCBS, 4 KNBC... not the ones that say LA2, LA4 or 2-1, 4-1...

mike... regarding the dual buffers... Earl Bonovich, the resident dbstalk HR20 guru/man with the inside info said that D* is looking into it, but have not said that it is coming.. if it's a deal breaker, you need to get an HR10 or a series 3 tivo with cable..

DBS Talk Topic on Dual Buffers (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=62118)

For all you deaf Home Theatre buffs, I hooked up my HR20 and hooked it into my amp with the Toslink, and it worked fine, but it just didnt sound as good as the HNS receiver it replaced. Just before Nascar today, I thought I would check it out, and find out what the problem was, turns out the Dolby Digital it turned OFF by default, and I was using Prologic. Just a heads up for anyone buying a new one, guided setup doesnt enable it by default.
Sounds 100% better now.


Also after the software update is downloaded you must reset your reciever. I hadn't and the only output I was getting was PCM. Did a search in the D* forums and found out that you must reset your reciever after the update.

Called DirecTV today. My commitment ended last week. I asked about the HR20, and the retention CSR told me that the promotional price was only available to people who currently own an HR10-250. Since I didn't have one, she could offer me an HR20 for $299, and I should jump on the price because it will be going back to $399 once the promotional period is over. I told her that I had been with DirecTV since 2000, and have always subscribed to HBO, Sunday Ticket/Superfan, and NBA League Pass.

She said she was sorry, but I had to have an HR10-250 to get a discount. :mad:

Called DirecTV today. My commitment ended last week. I asked about the HR20, and the retention CSR told me that the promotional price was only available to people who currently own an HR10-250. Since I didn't have one, she could offer me an HR20 for $299, and I should jump on the price because it will be going back to $399 once the promotional period is over. I told her that I had been with DirecTV since 2000, and have always subscribed to HBO, Sunday Ticket/Superfan, and NBA League Pass.

She said she was sorry, but I had to have an HR10-250 to get a discount. :mad:

Did you call retention? They will give the best deals available. 1-800-824-9081 Good luck.

This is from Directv's website:

"ATSC tuner functionality for viewing digital and HD broadcasts received from an off-air antenna will not be available until later this year. A software download will be pushed to the HR20 via the satellite before the end of the year to enable this functionality."

Just look at the details for the Directv Plus HD DVR and scroll to the bottom.

Does anyone else's hard drive make a chirping or hissing noise even when no recording is going on? Everything works pretty good on this new dvr just not sure I should be hearing that much noise even when the receiver is turned off and not recording anything?

Installer brought out HR20 Yesterday. His work order called for him to install new 5 LNB dish and move a lot of wiring. All that had already happened when they installed the H20 a few weeks ago, so I had him put a splitter and a new line to the new location from my OTA antenna instead. Inside wiring was not a big issue as it is being installed in an addition with no drywall up yet, so access was no problem.

First box was bad, so he left and came back later with a new box. This box installed without issue, and was basically functional right off the bat, though with a number of glitches. About three hours later the box downloaded new software. I did a reset, and now appears to be working fine. It's taking me awhile to translate the tivo functions I am used to to the lexicon of the HR20, but for the most part it does okay.

I miss the double buffer with the easy flop from one tuner to the other, but otherwise it is very fast, much faster than the hr10-250. The manual seems to imply that you could record two programs off the DTV tuners and another off the OTA tuner at the same time. Is this a misprint? Can I expect to record three shows at the same time? (I realize the OTA tuners are not active at this time)

The girl that took the activation call threw in an additional $20 credit per month for 6 months on her own initiative. Can't complain about that.

Allen

My HR20 arrived last monday, hooked it to my 3LNB dish and the antenna (OTA) cable. For the most part it seems to be working fine. But it does seem buggy. It started downloading and installing 0x00be almost immediately (even before I could get on the phone with D* to enable the box).

Since I don't have a 5 LNB dish, I'm using it to record CBSW and ABCW from LA and letting the HR10-250 do NBC, FOX, and CW.

Did you call retention? They will give the best deals available. 1-800-824-9081 Good luck.

SF South Bay customer with about 4 years including NHL-CI and MLB-EI . Called the retention folks several times and finally got them down to $299 less $150 instant credit, waived shipping and handling, and HD programming charges waived for 5 months. Nets out to about $100 to me. Since I don't own an existing HD-DVR, only an H20, and haven't been with them for 10 years like some folks here, the deal seemed good enough for me and in the ballpark of what I was willing to pay.

SF South Bay customer with about 4 years including NHL-CI and MLB-EI . Called the retention folks several times and finally got them down to $299 less $150 instant credit, waived shipping and handling, and HD programming charges waived for 5 months. Nets out to about $100 to me. Since I don't own an existing HD-DVR, only an H20, and haven't been with them for 10 years like some folks here, the deal seemed good enough for me and in the ballpark of what I was willing to pay.

Did you get the 5LNB Dish with Install?

Count me in as someone who gets NO video through the HDMI feed. Component is fine. I tried 2 different HDMI cables with the installer there (the plug is annoyingly loose - anyone else have this?).

After getting the dish installed and everything else, I decided to stick with component for now and deal with this later. They may have a bad batch of boxes. Screw it - I'm leasing it now, so they'll have to replace it when they figure this problem out.

Yeah does leasing means you don't have to pay for that monthly protection plan?

If anything goes wrong, they have to replace or repair it, they can't try to make you swap it for a new or refurb. in exchange for additional subscription committment?

Who knows, maybe they will say you have to buy one of those $150 HDMI cables or else they will blame it on your HDMI cable.

Just a little advice for everyone trying to get a good deal. It worked for me.

Step 1: Call up and see what you need to do to get a H10-250 for shipping only. You shouldn't have to work too hard a deal for that.

Step 2: Tell them you need to get a second cable run to your tv so have them note it on your account and you'll be calling back.

Step 3: Call back in a day or two and say that you found out that the HR20 is now out and that people are getting upgrades from the H10-250 to the HR20-700 for $99. Point out to them that you are days from having an H10-250 and they should be able to see it on your account.

Step 4: Once you get an agreement have them once again note it on the account for the same reason specified above.

Step 5: Call BB or go to BB (like me) and get the HR20-700S.

Step 6: Call up and ask for the method you need to use to get your rebate as specified on your account.

Bingo - HR20 for $99 for people who never had a H10-250 AND for people who might not have any power with retention (like me).


Think about it and it makes sense:
if A gets you B & B gets you C then A gets you C.

QED


Snewo

(No, they didn't sound too thrilled, but it made sense to me)

Did you get the 5LNB Dish with Install?

Can't say whether they would have included that or not. I already have an H20 and the AT9 dish installed.

I wanted to wait till I actually had the H20 in my house prior to posting, now that it's in, wanted to post that the $19.99 deals are still out there to be had.

Been a subscriber since '98 and have had two hd receivers and one regular dvr for years now, I just called last week to see if I can find out when the DVR was going to be available in my area (ATL) and after 15 minutes of pleasant conversation with the CSR, I all of a sudden was told that Sept.18th was available for delivery of the H20DVR.

At first the CSR was a little coy, telling me that she's going to try something, she wasn't sure it would allow her to do it, then after a few minutes she mentioned the delivery date, and a delivery charge.

Installer came yesterday and it works great. Only waiting for local OTA functionality, but so far so good. Can't believe I finally have a HD-DVR after waiting so long, I passed on the HD Tivo since the mpeg4 boxes were coming out, so I had to do without. Getting it for $19.99 was a complete surprise.

Hope everyone lucks out as I did.

Andrew

I just wanted to thank raoul5788 for giving out the retention number. I called and talked to the nicest CSR, Sheena. I told her they promised me back in March (which they did) a free upgrade of my H10 and to my surprise said, fine. She said they'd charge $99 and then credit it on the same bill. They are installing it on Thursday! YEAH, I live in Sandwich on the Cape and have never been able to get local HD channels, so I can't wait. I then called a different number (Which Sheena actually gave me, thinking it was the install company) but found it was yet another CSR, Cindy. I then told Cindy I wanted to confirm everything, which she did, but then I got a little bold and decided to ask what else they could give me since I am renewing my 2 year contract. I told her I'd take anything, so she said "how about 3 months free of Starz" and I of course said, GREAT!! Hey, it would have been nice to get money off but beggars certainly can't be choosers. I'm grateful and appreciative of these two women, they both made my day.
And just curious if there is anyone else out there (particularly on the Cape but anyone from Boston area) that has this machine and never had an OTA or local HD channels. What do you think?

Thanks to all who posted numbers and stories of success. It took four phone call to retention get the deal I wanted, but I am getting the HR20 for $19.95 S&H. I did get the HR10-250 for free a few months ago, so I was surprised to get this one for free as well and I didn't have to trade in the HR10-250. The install is scheduled for Saturday morning.

Chip, thanks for the quick reply!

One more question: the HDMI connection looks REALLY bad in dark scenes; VERY inky, muddy, no shadow detail. MUCH, MUCH worse then the LG HD receiver box it replaced. Component image is MUCH better on then the HDMI connection. Weird. Why?

First, the LG is the best box out there. There have been reports of issues with HDMI connections not working correctly with the HR20. You might try component to see if you have better results. Also, your display may need tweaking. Good luck!

Well I just got off of the phone with D*. I was having problems with my H20 box and HDMI and wondered if was my display or the H20. The Tech said it was probably their box and was goingto send someone out to look at it. I told him I was planning on updating to the HR20 and he told me that had them for $299. I said hook me up, so that will be isntalled next Tuesday. I was just about ready to go down to Best Buy and buy it for $399 later this week.

EDIT: Just checked BB online and they have have it listed for $299 now. I know when I last looked at it it was $399.

Well I just got off of the phone with D*. I was having problems with my H20 box and HDMI and wondered if was my display or the H20. The Tech said it was probably their box and was goingto send someone out to look at it. I told him I was planning on updating to the HR20 and he told me that had them for $299. I said hook me up, so that will be isntalled next Tuesday. I was just about ready to go down to Best Buy and buy it for $399 later this week.

EDIT: Just checked BB online and they have have it listed for $299 now. I know when I last looked at it it was $399.

Similar HDMI trouble with my HR20. I have a 25-foot HDMI cable to my Panasonic AE900u projector that was working fine with my HR10-250. But it is not working with the HR20. Component does work.

Tested the HR20 with a 15-foot HDMI cable run to the projector and it did NOT work. Then tried with a 3-foot HDMI cable and it DID WORK.

Bought the HR20 myself so not sure what to do. It does work with my other HD TV in the house but don't use that tv nearly as much.

Well...the HDMI problem did not remain the only one...

Last night, I lost the "Studio 60" mpeg4 feed more than once, and it even stopped recording midway through.

Then, the box froze. Couldn't change channels, or power down, or anything. I rebooted and it worked for a while, then the same thing.

Ugh. I'll call D* today.

Well...the HDMI problem did not remain the only one...

Last night, I lost the "Studio 60" mpeg4 feed more than once, and it even stopped recording midway through.

Then, the box froze. Couldn't change channels, or power down, or anything. I rebooted and it worked for a while, then the same thing.

Ugh. I'll call D* today.

It sounds alot like the problems the H20 boxes are having. Is it only freezing on hd channels?

Similar HDMI trouble with my HR20. I have a 25-foot HDMI cable to my Panasonic AE900u projector that was working fine with my HR10-250. But it is not working with the HR20. Component does work.

Tested the HR20 with a 15-foot HDMI cable run to the projector and it did NOT work. Then tried with a 3-foot HDMI cable and it DID WORK.

Bought the HR20 myself so not sure what to do. It does work with my other HD TV in the house but don't use that tv nearly as much.
When I talked to the Tech today he mentioned that they were working on a software upgrade for the H20 to resolve the HDMI issue. Apparently one of their chips inside is not sending the signal right, but I told him if I reset the box everythign workse just fine. He said that is because the signal is corrected... Long story short it sounds like a fix for the H20 is in the works, but unsure about the HR20. I need the DVR so I'll take my chances with the HR20. If worse comes to worse I can always swap out the HDMI cable for a little bit and go with component cables.

Did you call retention? They will give the best deals available. 1-800-824-9081 Good luck.

I asked about the HR20, and the retention CSR told me...

Yes I did....

It sounds alot like the problems the H20 boxes are having. Is it only freezing on hd channels?

I thought so...but, it froze this morning on Toon Disney - a 480i channel.

The funny thing is that the box freezes, but not the picture. As long as I keep watching that channel - no problem. Of course, once I try to change the channel or do anything with the remote the box is unresponsive. And, it can't be turned off without unplugging.

Fun!

I thought so...but, it froze this morning on Toon Disney - a 480i channel.

The funny thing is that the box freezes, but not the picture. As long as I keep watching that channel - no problem. Of course, once I try to change the channel or do anything with the remote the box is unresponsive. And, it can't be turned off without unplugging.

Fun!

Interesting! Thanks for the info.

I thought so...but, it froze this morning on Toon Disney - a 480i channel.

The funny thing is that the box freezes, but not the picture. As long as I keep watching that channel - no problem. Of course, once I try to change the channel or do anything with the remote the box is unresponsive. And, it can't be turned off without unplugging.

Fun!


My mom's standard def DVR from DirecTv did that too, went through two of them. Apparently there are two manufacturers for that box, so I talked the CSR into sending them one from the OTHER manufacturer, and its been working flawlessly for about three weeks now.

The HR twenty I bought at best buy two weeks ago has not had a single glitch or problem <knocking on wood> since day one. Flawless, although I admit, I didnt have a HDMI to DVI cable, so I havent tested that.

My mom's standard def DVR from DirecTv did that too, went through two of them. Apparently there are two manufacturers for that box, so I talked the CSR into sending them one from the OTHER manufacturer, and its been working flawlessly for about three weeks now.

The HR twenty I bought at best buy two weeks ago has not had a single glitch or problem <knocking on wood> since day one. Flawless, although I admit, I didnt have a HDMI to DVI cable, so I havent tested that.

Well, according to D*, the HDMI problem will be corrected with a future software upgrade. It only happens with specific TV's.

Hopefully, when D* comes out Friday, they will give me a new box and I'll have your luck!

I haven't been able to record a full show yet because the box freezes approximately every 1/2 hour.

Has anyone kept their older HR10 active in the same room, and if so do the two units use different remote codes? The reason I'm asking is I want to keep both units active in my main viewing room, that way I can use the HR10 for OTA HD and Standard Def stuff for the kids and the HR20 for Sat HD. Either way that should give me about 70 hours of HD combined.

James

Has anyone kept their older HR10 active in the same room, and if so do the two units use different remote codes? The reason I'm asking is I want to keep both units active in my main viewing room, that way I can use the HR10 for OTA HD and Standard Def stuff for the kids and the HR20 for Sat HD. Either way that should give me about 70 hours of HD combined.

James

That's pretty much what I plan on doing. I'm not getting my HR20 until October 12th, but I plan on keeping the HR10 running until the come out with the OTA software update for my other HDTV locals that DTV doesn't offer. As they are different units and manufacturers I am sure they use differnent remote codes. In fact, I have a harmony 880 and I know they have separate codes for the HR20 so remotes should not be an issue.

What I need to test, and will probably do this weekend, is pulling the access card out of the HR10 and making sure I can still view the OTA channels. This way I can deactivate it and set manual recordings for CW until the patch comes out.

That's pretty much what I plan on doing. I'm not getting my HR20 until October 12th, but I plan on keeping the HR10 running until the come out with the OTA software update for my other HDTV locals that DTV doesn't offer. As they are different units and manufacturers I am sure they use differnent remote codes. In fact, I have a harmony 880 and I know they have separate codes for the HR20 so remotes should not be an issue.

What I need to test, and will probably do this weekend, is pulling the access card out of the HR10 and making sure I can still view the OTA channels. This way I can deactivate it and set manual recordings for CW until the patch comes out.

Don't be convinced that different manufacturers use different codes. I used the same remote for my H20-100 that I am now using with my HR20-700. I was too lazy and didn't feel like reprogramming in all of my other units. To be honest, I don't think I reprogrammed when I had to swap out my H20-600 for my H20-100 either.


Snewo

Has anyone kept their older HR10 active in the same room, and if so do the two units use different remote codes? The reason I'm asking is I want to keep both units active in my main viewing room, that way I can use the HR10 for OTA HD and Standard Def stuff for the kids and the HR20 for Sat HD. Either way that should give me about 70 hours of HD combined.

James


yes, completely different. it's kind of annoying actually

Don't be convinced that different manufacturers use different codes. I used the same remote for my H20-100 that I am now using with my HR20-700. I was too lazy and didn't feel like reprogramming in all of my other units. To be honest, I don't think I reprogrammed when I had to swap out my H20-600 for my H20-100 either.


Snewo

Oh, just lovely. I am going to be having my HR20 and an H20 in the same vicinity pretty soon here. This means I am going to have conflicts, doesn't it?

Oh, just lovely. I am going to be having my HR20 and an H20 in the same vicinity pretty soon here. This means I am going to have conflicts, doesn't it?

Not necessarily. If you have the RC24 remote, then you can set one of the boxes to rf.
They will not interfere with each other then.

What I need to test, and will probably do this weekend, is pulling the access card out of the HR10 and making sure I can still view the OTA channels. This way I can deactivate it and set manual recordings for CW until the patch comes out.

You will not be able to do this. You can remove the card, and it will still allow you to
watch OTA, but you can only record OTA by subscribing to D*'s TiVo service and having the card in and satellite connection.

SMK

i just got my hr20 yesterday and its a lot to get use to, im a tivo person since day one with tivo so now this new thing is a little different but i dont understand hd my local channels when i watch the show but as soon as it goes to commerical it goes from 16:9 4:3 with black bars on the side is this normal the picture looks great just switchs back and forth anyone else have this with there hr-20 ?

i just got my hr20 yesterday and its a lot to get use to, im a tivo person since day one with tivo so now this new thing is a little different but i dont understand hd my local channels when i watch the show but as soon as it goes to commerical it goes from 16:9 4:3 with black bars on the side is this normal the picture looks great just switchs back and forth anyone else have this with there hr-20 ?
This has NOTHING to do with the HR20. It is the signal sent by the network. There is nothing wrong with the unit in this regard. I have had numerous DTV HD receivers and all do the same.
By the way, how great is the unit.
I am getting a freeHR 20 next week

Now that the HR20 has been out a few weeks, I have a question.

I am currently running a SAT-60 and HR10-250 and am very happy with this set up with the only objection is not receiving NBC in HD. Never could get that waiver around here. The only thing I would gain at the present time will be NBC-HD. I'm not so sure that I would like the larger 5 LNB dish.

It it time to upgrade while "free" deals are being made with owners of the HR10-250?

Should I wait for the newer dish that is do out in the future?

Seems like lots of people out there are happy with the new HR20. Is it a good unit to have?

Again I would like to have the newer dish coming out, however it sounds like the HR20 is now operating well. I just don't want to wait only to find out that no free deals will be made in the future. Any thoughts from people with more insight than I have?

I have only been with D* for a year and a half. I ordered the HR20 and it will be installed on the 25th. I now see that a lot of you are getting it for free or for a lot cheaper. Do you think if I call retention they will be able to give me some sort of discount even though I haven't been with them that long? This is also my first HD DVR.

OK, I drew a lousy company to install the AT9 and HR-20. I'm in the South Bay Area and the company has rescheduled twice already. Some outfit called Ironwood Communications -- they have a web site.

First time, 15 minutes before appt., they say they have to reschedule. Now, about an hour before the second appt., they are saying they don't have any HD-DVRs and can't give me a date.

I called Direct TV to complain and they give me the local 800 number for the installer and they call it Mountain even though the people who called me identify themselves as Ironwood both times. So a subcontractor to a contractor probably.

I go to my account on the D* web site and they've already billed me $345.26. No programming credits to offset it yet. My automatic payment posted on 9/8 and they're ready to bill me again on 9/27. The first CSR says he can't override.

I'm transferred to another who says that's the way it works, I'm in-between the billing cycles. She offers me a month of Showtime. I said I didn't want it because I'm not interested in Showtime. Doesn't offer me anything else.

Time to think about switching altogether. Right before the Fall premiers of the new shows and right after the start of the NFL season (I don't subscribe to Sunday Ticket).

This has NOTHING to do with the HR20. It is the signal sent by the network. There is nothing wrong with the unit in this regard. I have had numerous DTV HD receivers and all do the same.
By the way, how great is the unit.
I am getting a freeHR 20 next week


yea i ended up getting mine for 49.99 which i was fine with but so far its good i think the picture is so nice i mean this is my first hd experience and i love it !! i cant wait till more channels roll out but until then im fine with my 25 but yea the unit is so nice looks good on my tv stand so far thumbs up on everything but still getting use to the deferent style compared to tivo and i cant wait till sat for college football. one thing thought is i have it hooked up through components and im debating if i should go and buy an hdmi cable for it or just stay with component any advice will be great , well realistic advice is the picture going to be that much better?

I would say go for the hdmi, not necessarily that you can tell that much more in picture quality but the cable has audio also, the signal is not changed from digital to analog and back to digital like component. I have seen decent hdmi cables at Wal-mart or Sams Club $12 - $ 15, so you are not spending a ton of money on what will be the future, I have my hr20-700 hooked up both ways and can say hdmi is slightly sharper. HDMI is the future also one day their will be no more more analog connections for new equipment.


yea i ended up getting mine for 49.99 which i was fine with but so far its good i think the picture is so nice i mean this is my first hd experience and i love it !! i cant wait till more channels roll out but until then im fine with my 25 but yea the unit is so nice looks good on my tv stand so far thumbs up on everything but still getting use to the deferent style compared to tivo and i cant wait till sat for college football. one thing thought is i have it hooked up through components and im debating if i should go and buy an hdmi cable for it or just stay with component any advice will be great , well realistic advice is the picture going to be that much better?

I can't believe they are telling you this that they can't change the billing, I have contacted directv over all kinds of issues concerning billing, they make the changes and I can see them right then, I even made a payment one day online while talking to a rep and the payment I made showed up on their system that very second. You should have received a number to call if you had to cancel the install, tell them you want to cancel the install, they can't refuse that otherwise tell them not to bill you until the unit is activated. I have had very little problems with directv in all my years but what they are doing to you does not seem right. I can tell you this the hr20 is worth it, if you can get confirmation from directv that you will get an install date before the money comes out of your account it will be worth the wait. I picked my hr20 at best buy and directv refunded me some money off that price. I had a few issues at first and our local installer had never seen the hr20 and said he was for sure they had none of these at his warehouse. Directv can get you one they just have to be pushed.


OK, I drew a lousy company to install the AT9 and HR-20. I'm in the South Bay Area and the company has rescheduled twice already. Some outfit called Ironwood Communications -- they have a web site.

First time, 15 minutes before appt., they say they have to reschedule. Now, about an hour before the second appt., they are saying they don't have any HD-DVRs and can't give me a date.

I called Direct TV to complain and they give me the local 800 number for the installer and they call it Mountain even though the people who called me identify themselves as Ironwood both times. So a subcontractor to a contractor probably.

I go to my account on the D* web site and they've already billed me $345.26. No programming credits to offset it yet. My automatic payment posted on 9/8 and they're ready to bill me again on 9/27. The first CSR says he can't override.

I'm transferred to another who says that's the way it works, I'm in-between the billing cycles. She offers me a month of Showtime. I said I didn't want it because I'm not interested in Showtime. Doesn't offer me anything else.

Time to think about switching altogether. Right before the Fall premiers of the new shows and right after the start of the NFL season (I don't subscribe to Sunday Ticket).

Honestly I don't think you can do much 1 1/2 basically you are still under contract with them. I have been with them since 95 and I still had to pay something for the dvr(mine was not free and I did not get the shipping charge of 19.95 either)
The only deals I have seen are for people who already bought a hr10-250 or you are a premium subscriber and long time, and possibly have been paying for Sunday ticket and other premiums for several years. I was just a total choice subscriber but got mine for $77.00.



I have only been with D* for a year and a half. I ordered the HR20 and it will be installed on the 25th. I now see that a lot of you are getting it for free or for a lot cheaper. Do you think if I call retention they will be able to give me some sort of discount even though I haven't been with them that long? This is also my first HD DVR.

I called the order processing number it's 1-888 something.

That is the number CR gave me when they set up the initial deal.

I don't know if my complaining helped or not but the installlers called me about an hour later and said they would have my HD-DVR tomorrow and gave me a choice of morning or afternoon for the install.

So we'll see.

The CSR kept saying can't override.

I would say go for the hdmi, not necessarily that you can tell that much more in picture quality but the cable has audio also, the signal is not changed from digital to analog and back to digital like component. I have seen decent hdmi cables at Wal-mart or Sams Club $12 - $ 15, so you are not spending a ton of money on what will be the future, I have my hr20-700 hooked up both ways and can say hdmi is slightly sharper. HDMI is the future also one day their will be no more more analog connections for new equipment.


thanks for the insight im going tonight to go and pick one up at sams just for sh@#ts and giggles. will update if i see a difference.

I would say go for the hdmi, not necessarily that you can tell that much more in picture quality but the cable has audio also, the signal is not changed from digital to analog and back to digital like component. I have seen decent hdmi cables at Wal-mart or Sams Club $12 - $ 15, so you are not spending a ton of money on what will be the future, I have my hr20-700 hooked up both ways and can say hdmi is slightly sharper. HDMI is the future also one day their will be no more more analog connections for new equipment.

Well, I have to say, my HDMI connection has BAD picture quality; murky, terrible blacks, etc. Via Component, the picture is MUCH MUCH better. Is anybody else having this problem? My HR20 replaced the LG HD Receiver, which passed a much, much better signal via the DVI-HDMI out.

Theinstallers have cancelled on me two times already (both within moinutes of when they were set to arrive)

Supposedly coming Sat.

I just said screw it and hooked my 3 lnb dish and hd tivo up myself at our new house till these idiots show.

Orange county/LA is ahaving issues meeting demand.

Do you know the length and AWG of your HDMI cable? Hoosier84 talked about the fact that he could not drive as long of an HDMI cable using the HR20 as he could with his HR10 going to the same Panasonic AE900u.

I would try a shorter HDMI cable (if possible), and preferably with a bigger wire gage (smaller AWG number). That might do the trick.

i'm having an issue where the remote control stops being recognized by the hr20 for good stretches of time, like 10 minutes. it happens when i first start using the unit. no buttons work on the remote at all. the remote light lights, but the hr20 does not respond. what's really strange is that if i walk up to the ir sensor and cover it for 10 seconds or so, then the remote will work flawlessly. this has happend now 3 different times within the past 24 hours...

Honestly I don't think you can do much 1 1/2 basically you are still under contract with them. I have been with them since 95 and I still had to pay something for the dvr(mine was not free and I did not get the shipping charge of 19.95 either)
The only deals I have seen are for people who already bought a hr10-250 or you are a premium subscriber and long time, and possibly have been paying for Sunday ticket and other premiums for several years. I was just a total choice subscriber but got mine for $77.00.

Actually, I'm currently not in contract with them so I decided to call retention to try my luck anyway. I told the rep that I've been getting offers in the mail from other cable companies offering free HD DVR's and asked if they can match it or offer some sort of discounts.

He told me he couldn't match it but what he could do was give me a $150 credit towards my account. I then started to ask questions about canceling the order and the two year contract that comes with it. He then offered me HBO and SHO for $2 a month for the next 6 months.

I probably could have tried to haggle more but being with them for only 1 1/2 years I was happy with the offer so I took it. Thanks to everyone who posted the retention phone number and stories on how they got discounts.

Ordering was simple, got a deal that was outstanding (free), and the only gripe was that my installers came 4 hours late. That said, the install (including AUTOMATIC software update) took about 30 minutes. This was pretty much a plug and play install. Tried on 20 different scheduled shows so far and its worked flawlessly. Assuming things don't change, I'd say the HR20 is a super unit.

As an aside....I noticed the tuner signal strengths were even higher than my H20 that got replaced (and moved elsewhere in another room) - everything in the lower to mid 90's.

I broke down last night and ordered. I don't know if I got a good deal or not. It seems ok to me. They're replacing 2 HD Tivos with the HR20 and an old Sony HD receicver with the H20 and moving one of the Tivos to the bedroom. They charged me $320 on a credit card and are giving me a $198 credit on my September bill. I had to commit to two years. They install on Tuesday the 26th. I really hope it's as easy to use as the Tivo!

Just want to start off saying we got our HR20-700 yesterday, and even better they had our order wrong so we got two!! They didn't even take away our H10-250 or our regular reciever we had upstairs [they said we can keep these, (deactivated right now of course!?)] AND we got the 3 months of starz free and finally local channels in HD!! All of this for $0!!!
Only downside is our installer had his first day yesterday- He was at our house for a good 6 hours. Poor guy, didn't have a clue, but regardless, we were quite nice to him b/c you have to start to somewhere!
The only thing that really annoyed me is he couldn't get our remote programmed to work with the volume and power buttons. We just have so many damn remotes that we don't want to have to use a separate one just for those two things, especially considering that it worked fine with our HR10-250. He could get the upstair remote programmed but not our downstairs. He said something about our TV being a new HD (it's a sony sxrd) and that' why. Doesn't make sense to me, does anyone have any suggestions?

try using the universal sony remote code of 10000. seems to work for most sony brand devices, and strangely, my westinghouse hd as well...

My Sammy TS-360 has been acting up for a couple weeks (scrambling its programming, mixing channels in the program guide, etc). I've had a couple years and it's been fine.

Taking the lead from the posts here, I called retention 800-824-9081 and told them I was considering switching services if I couldn't get a reliable HD Sat receiver. I've been with them for about 12 years, HD/NFL ST/Superfan etc.

By the time we got done talking, I had a HR20-700 DVR and new 5 LNB dish set to be installed this coming monday (3 days), for a grand total of $19.95. 2 YR extension, of course, but no reason to change now, so that was not a factor.

To my way of thinking, this is EXCEPTIONAL customer service.

It is a bit of a pain that the OTA receiver in the HR-20-700 DVR is not "activated" yet. Looks like a couple of months for the software upgrade. At this point it doesn't matter much, as I can watch (but not record) my HD on my Sammy 5667W directly OTA.

Thanks a bunch for those who put me on to the $19.95 deal.

So I had an install scheduled for weds to upgrade to the new HD-DVR. Weds afternoon comes and goes with no tech no phone call. I get on the horn with direct tv and after about an hour Im told that a tech will be out the next day. I said fine. Half hour later local tech calls and says he can't do it the next day it will be friday. I said thats fine.

Tech shows up today. First thing that pops out of his mouth is that his work order says Im suppose to get the new dish but he says I dont need it because I "can't get locals through the satellite anyway" and that its a problem with direct tv and that I should wait a few months. He then said if i wanted to waste my time he would put the satellite on a pole in the ground. Said its too heavy for the roof and would rip it up. My current satellite is on the roof of my house and i thought it would hold the "50 pounds. I told him I understood it wont attach to some materials but i thought my roof could handle it. I told him to holdoff cuz I could tell by asking different questions that he had no clue what he was doing. I finally asked how many of these he had installed and said "hundreds" so I started feeling a little better but in the course of talking he says he's never seen the new HR20-700. He couldn't even say it as I had to remind him several times while he was on the phone with direct tv.

So I have the new HR20 with the 3lnb dish. Now here are the problems.
First of all I told him repeatedly about the software issues with the machine and that he needed to let it update before proceeding. THREE times it popped up saying to upgrade software and he kept pushing later. and then was gettin pissed when it wasn't working right. As of right now

1) HDMI didn't work. He said it was my brand new cable i just got*samsung 5086
2) My channels keep going in and out. Sometimes I have no HD channels. other times HD channels are the only ones I get. When I do get regular channels they will work for a few minutes and then I get the following...
3) I keep gettin the "searching for signal Sat 1" even though I have close to 95% on both tuners. I remember reading about that somewhere on here so I might be able to resolve that issue.
4) When I ordered I was told Id get HD programmin free for 4 months. today they said they had no record but "would add it to my programming." HELLO?? Im getting a HD-DVR dont they think i would have ordered HD

My tech called whoever and they tried a few issues but he kept tellin them "its all screwed up" and bitched at them for making a bad receiver

anyways I heard him say over the phone they are sendin me a new box fed ex and I guess Im suppose to hook it up myself. I AM NOT HAPPY. What should I do at this point?? I guess I will try the new box and if it dont work Im callin direct tv back. this is ridiculus.

When I first hooked up my HR20, the HDMI port did not work. I was going to search this forum for an answer but it started working the second day without me making any changes in the settings.

Direct tv installers are hit and miss. My last one was horrible and that was the first really bad experience I had.

Woldgpd, accept the FedEx delivery, unplug the cables and reconnect them in the same place on the new box, power cord last. Turn it on, let it upgrade, if it needs to, and enjoy it. The box is worth it. Its great when you have a working one.

Well they're suppose to be out this afternoon and I'm just waiting...

I'm anticipating a difficult installation for the AT9. Current dish is on a wall mount and the roof is too high to access.

So while waiting, I'm thinking I might just take the HR20 and worry about AT9 for another day if the installer resists installing it on the wall.

My AT9 install only took 12 hours. but I think it had a little something to do with the installer.

My AT9 install only took 12 hours. but I think it had a little something to do with the installer.

Wow!

In my case, if they can't install on the wall, it's going to be a hard problem to solve.

They will have to come back because I'd talk to the HOA first about other locations.

How high is the roof? Mine was pretty high and he mounted it on the roof. My other dish had been mounted on the chimney.