I apologize to the AVS Forum Administrators if I’m in error in starting this thread. But I thought there ought to be a place for us “early adopters” in the L.A. area to tell AVS Forum members about our initial impressions using D*’s new MPEG 4 compatible HD DVR, the HR20-700. As far as I know, a relative few have actually had their units installed and can report initial impressions. Here are mine:

Installation:

D* requires that their new AT9 dish be installed along with this receiver. As reported, it’s a large dish and heavy, so mounting can be an issue for some. Also, do what I did before I let the installers put the dish up – have them measure your signal strength to be sure it is adequate. This dish requires proper “peaking” and signal strength in order for the HR20 to function properly, according to the installer.

If you have an OTA antenna diplexed into your satellite signal remove the diplexer and run it straight into the back of the HR20. I had to do this. The upside? I ended up receiving 3 additional OTA stations from Mt. Wilson. The downside? I had to pay the installers a “little on the side” to do this and the OTA inputs on the HR20 won’t be active for another couple of months. I’m willing to wait it out.

The HR20 DVR Program Guide:

It’s a sleek looking box with a space-age blue diode circle that performs for you while you operate the box. If you fast-forward on recorded or live T.V. the diodes light up in a circular pattern (clockwise) and counter clockwise for reverse. Paused recordings or live T.V. cause the diodes to pulsate. Fun to watch, but could get distracting after awhile. The box itself is quiet – I can’t hear it – but is warm to the touch.

If you are familiar with the Program Guide on the HD20, this DVR is really the same EXCEPT it is MUCH faster! Yeah! It also scrolls the guide in increments which is somewhat handy. It also has the one-line quick guide, two-touch guide filter, etc. Unfortunately, like the HD20, you must set up Custom Guides (there are two) to filter out stations you don’t receive or would never tune to anyway.

MPEG 2 and MPEG 4 Channels

I was at first confused about this. After the unit is initialized (it takes about 6 or 7 minutes to do this), you and D* have activated your new receiver and DVR service, and guide information is downloaded, you get the channel lineup. For Los Angeles, this means you will find multiple channels for the same station. For example, I see LA2 (D* locals), KCBS (MPEG 4), and the network feed of CBS (CBSWest) – which for us in L.A. is a mirror of their local station here. If I were to add in my OTA reception (when activated) that would add KCBS 2.1 – totaling FOUR channels of the same station!

I think all of this matters more for the future than now. My preference is to just watch the MPEG 2 feeds I had been getting all along from D*. Why? Because some have reported some recording issues with the MPEG 4 stations on this new DVR. I plan to wait until software updates are complete and these early MPEG 4 issues are worked out. I may change my tune, however, if there is an important sporting event on an MPEG 4 channel (Fox Sports West) that comes on next week or the week following.

Watching Live T.V. and Recording Programs

After about 72 hours of experience with this DVR I can report little or no difficulty watching live T.V. pausing it, re-winding it, etc. – the basic functions of a DVR. I have also had no difficulty recording programs (several times 2 programs at once). No audio or video issues to report. Dolby Digital works fine – but I’m limiting my recording to MPEG 2 programs for now.

Here is what we did last night: After setting up Series Link recordings for “Reno 911”, “The Dog Whisperer” and “Vanished”, we started watching the Emmy’s at 8 PM PDT. All through the program we paused it, fast-forwarded through commercials and then watched more programming. BTW the 30-second “slip” button on the remote is FAST, and really does the trick. We gave up on the Emmy’s and pushed the “R” button on the remote. The HR20 began to record the show immediately – from 8:00 PM! We then selected “Reno 911” from the VOD list and watched it – fast-forwarding through commercials. Upon completion of it, I deleted it. All future recordings of Reno 911 are on tap in the “To Do” list and we will be watching the second half of the Emmy’s tonight (while “Vanished” records). It’s really that simple and intuitive.

I have also had success recording movies on HBO-HD including last Saturday’s “In Her Shoes” – scheduled to air at 5 PM PDT. But we watched it at 7 PM off the DVR – absolutely no problems whatsoever. You will probably find it necessary to re-calibrate your display device to accommodate this new DVR, but that is a given whenever you change out equipment of this kind, I think.

Final Thoughts

I can’t say how things will go over the next several weeks, but based on my limited experience thus far, I think this will be a good unit. I have never used a TiVo before, so this is all new to me. I like the idea that I can finally record programs in HD. I like the idea that I’m not tied to the network’s schedule. I also like the idea that I can skip by ads.

Sorry if this “first impressions” review isn’t technical enough for most of you, but I’m just a lay-user of this type of equipment. Hope your experience with this unit (if you decide to order one) is a good one.

I received my two HR20-700's yesterday. As a user of the HR10-250, it is taking me awhile to learn the commands over the TIVO unit. It's just a different GUI and is different from the TIVO.

Curiously, it has the HDMI connection but the cable does not come with the unit! Have to go to RS, I guess.

I am having trouble with the "Series Links". I can set all first run episodes for some programs but it won't work for others. I am thinking this might have something to do with the guide data not being completely downloaded yet.

I have not see the 30 second skip button.

Overall, I like it and the ability to be interactive. After using TIVO for so long, I just got to get used to it!

Jeff

For me, the killer compared to the Tivo based HR10-250 is the single live buffer. I will not upgrade until they add a second buffer, or until I'm absolutely forced by D* to do so. Perfect example of why (which I do all the time):

- I'm watching NBC on satellite 1 and I'm 10 minutes behind
- I need to check the weather channel real quick, so I switch to satellite 2 and change to TWC
- I switch back to NBC to continue watching, and find that it's live with no back buffer so I lose the 10 minutes (plus the time I watched TWC)

I frequently toggle satellite inputs. If we're watching something and my wife needs to do something real quick, I'll pause what we're watching and switch to the other input until she's done and switch back. I couldn't stand to lose this functionality.

Are they going to make it dual live buffers with a software upgrade? Knowing this I may wait also since I do the same thing with MY WIFE!

Are they going to make it dual live buffers with a software upgrade? Knowing this I may wait also since I do the same thing with MY WIFE!Yeah, mine will drive me nuts with this. She'll either have to get on the phone, fix a snack, get the mail, etc. I can't complain too much though, I do the same thing on occasion. But I just can't live without dual buffers. Maybe they'll add it in a future software update.

If I had to choose one feature I couldn't live without it would be the dual buffers and knowing that I've been looking forward to this hd dvr for so long just to have that be the feature they left off is sickening.

I am in the same boat. I know I'm going to get the HR-20 regardless but can we start to voice our outrage at the omission of the dual buffer feature. I've posted on different threads but I still don't have an answer. Is this a software issue that could be added with future downloads? The theory I'm going with is that, in their rush to get the unit to market, they left this feature off and will come back and add it at a later date. I can't think of anything inherent to mpeg4 or the new box that would prohibit them from being able to continue to provide this feature. A 30-sec skip button seems more threatening to the networks than duel buffer so I doubt they had anything to do with the feature being dropped.

Obviously the ability to time-shift and record HD content far outweighs the loss of this feature but a lot of us have viewing habits that will be hard to adjust back to a single buffer.

Is this topic worthy of it's own thread?

GIVE ME DUEL BUFFER OR GIVE ME DEATH!

I completely agree with you. I think they're just focusing on the more "major" problems/features prior to focusing on the dual buffer. Apparently "they" are monitoring threads on dbstalk and are aware of the public outcry for dual buffers.

I suspect they will definitely add the feature in the future. How soon? Who knows. For now I'm just hoping they update my HR10-250 to 6.3 so I can get a speedy guide and folders.

There's no way in hell I'd consider getting the HR20-700 w/o dual buffers. This is not a technological issue. D* won't allow dual buffers because they want to be downloading their crap whenever they want. Dual buffers forces them to do it in the dead of night. Their greed will cost them.

I can't wait for the S3 to come out. I'll probably keep D* until the NFL season is over, but cut back to minimum programming. Then I'll get rid of Rupert for good. I'll get Comcast as soon as the S3 comes out and I read some positive reviews. If I overlap a month or 2 I'll live with it.

Okay, I'm a little behind on the HR20 stuff and searching brought so many old speculative threads.... hoping some kind soul will answer a few quick questions, please. The unit was installed yesterday and so far I'm only frustrated by what's missing.

When I run the setup guide, my choice for sat&ant is grayed out. So am I reading correctly that OTA HD is not supported? Insane! How can they release this thing and not allow us all to receive HD that is currently being broadcast for free? Are they hoping everyone will buy the HD package to fill their needs?

The short list of HD being recorded at our house consists of Everyone Loves Raymond on KTLA-5 HD in Los Angeles and I record many programs from PBS-HD like Nova and many concerts. Neither of these stations show up on my guide! Rediculous and not acceptable! Also channel 9 and 13 don't show a digital twin.

When the installer left, I did install my OTA antenna cable and reset the whole works. The HR20 did appear to remap my HD locals next to Network channels in the guide. That is I now have 2 sets of channel 2, two sets of channel 4 etc., but I am not receiving any OTA? When can we expect this to be working?

So far I am totally unimpressed with this unit as it also does not recognize my Yamaha receiver for programming the remote. My receiver is model RX-V3200 and is only about 5 years old. Neither of the two codes provided worked.

The installer inadvertantly programmed the volume control on my TV into the remote. How do I unprogram that? I only want the TV to be turned off/on and input changable, no volume. Volume control for receiver only.

Thanks for any assistance...

When I run the setup guide, my choice for sat&ant is grayed out. So am I reading correctly that OTA HD is not supported? Insane! How can they release this thing and not allow us all to receive HD that is currently being broadcast for free? Are they hoping everyone will buy the HD package to fill their needs?It's just disabled for now. They'll enable OTA. The HR20 has 2 OTA tuners.

The short list of HD being recorded at our house consists of Everyone Loves Raymond on KTLA-5 HD in Los Angeles and I record many programs from PBS-HD like Nova and many concerts. Neither of these stations show up on my guide! Rediculous and not acceptable! Also channel 9 and 13 don't show a digital twin.Don't know what to tell you about this. I'm guessing they haven't adding those local channels yet? Call D* and ask them what the heck is going on.

When the installer left, I did install my OTA antenna cable and reset the whole works. The HR20 did appear to remap my HD locals next to Network channels in the guide. That is I now have 2 sets of channel 2, two sets of channel 4 etc., but I am not receiving any OTA? When can we expect this to be working?As I mentioned earlier, it's just not enabled yet. The speculation I heard was that they'll be enabling it in October. I suspect it'll be sooner though.

So far I am totally unimpressed with this unit as it also does not recognize my Yamaha receiver for programming the remote. My receiver is model RX-V3200 and is only about 5 years old. Neither of the two codes provided worked. I've seen pics of that remote and it looks horrible. Run out and buy a Logitech Harmony remote or something. I've read good things about that remote.

The installer inadvertantly programmed the volume control on my TV into the remote. How do I unprogram that? I only want the TV to be turned off/on and input changable, no volume. Volume control for receiver only.Sorry, I don't know anything about the remote that comes with the HR20. Check out the Harmony. I own an old Home Theatre Master MX-500 (learning remote) and I use it for everything, including my HR10-250. I don't have an HR20, but I've done a ton of research on it.

As far as I know, local PBS stations are not part of the Mpeg 4 local station lineup on D* yet. Only the major networks and maybe one independent, along with FSN.

As far as I know, local PBS stations are not part of the Mpeg 4 local station lineup on D* yet. Only the major networks and maybe one independent, along with FSN.FSN or RSN? I keep hearing something about some regional sports channel (RSN) being broadcast in mpeg-4.

I had my HR20 installed yesterday. It took over five hours! Partly because the installer was a tad spacey, but mostly because it was his first HR20 installation. Thus, he didn't do one thing that I suspect he will learn soon:

Wait for D* to download the software upgrade(s) before you try to actually do anything on the HR20! The process should start withing a few minutes after activation. If you don't do this, your box will freeze and reboot often. Trust me, the updates solve a lot of problems. We spent tons of time waiting while the box kept rebooting. After the upgrade, no probs.

Oh, and if you activate yourself, remember to remind the rep that you have the HR20, NOT the HD20. This happened to us, and it required long hold waits for tier 2 tech support to activate the DVR service.

Note there are still a couple of issues - the OTA not being activated is one. The other is problems with DD audio on Mpeg 4 channels. If you flip between the Mpeg 2 and 4 versions of a local channel, the Mpeg 4 audio will drop out. You can "fix" this by going to any non-local channel with Mpeg 2, then go back. This does -not- affect recordings, only playback. I solved it by simple removing the Mpeg 2 locals from my favorites.

First impressions - I had the HR10, but this is a new animal. It takes a bit of time to get used to the new menus/guides, but I am kinda liking it. Switching channels is faster, and recording LOTS faster - no more long "one moment"s while the HD10 set up a simple recoding. It is now instant.

Setting up season passes is a lot different - rtfm for this one. I am able to do it, but will have to see how it performs. I have heard that another known issue is the "to do" list does not update quickly once you set up season passes. Users have reported the recording doesn't show up on the list until an hour or so before it's scheduled start. But it does record.

I really like the new "quick" menu. Fast, contextual and intuitive.

I like how, after you hit record but before the recording stops, you are given the option of "stop recording, delete". No more going to "list" to fix accidents.

I love the new "active" channel, especially the "channel mix" which displays several channels at once and allows you to choose which audio you want. This is great for sports channels. As of yet, I don't think the user can choose which channels. This would be real neat when there are a few games you want to see happening at the same time. You can monitor them, similar to a poor man's sports casino.

The other feature that I love is being able to zip around the guide. It's lighting fast, you can go forward/back in 12 hour chunks, or easily go directly to a day/time.

Besides the known issues, my only other complaint is having to recalibrate my plasma monitor. The blacks on 480i are way too flashed, and seems to be worse on some channels. Minor quibble, others have mentioned it, so I am confident that it will be tweaked in further updates.

I will report back after I have had a chance to play with it a bit. If you jump in now, you will be part of the "early adopter" beta testing, so expect glitches here and there. None of the ones I have come across are close to deal breakers, and the pluses far outweigh the negatives. The updates have been coming every week or two, and each one (from what I have read) is picking off the major issues.

FSN or RSN? I keep hearing something about some regional sports channel (RSN) being broadcast in mpeg-4.

FSN, and most likely all RSN's, are Mpeg 4 and Mpeg 2. Like local channels, if you want them in HD, you need Mpeg 4.

Currently, they are on channels in the upper 90's. For FSNBA, it's channel 96.

Great! Last week I bought a 50" plasma and I am a current E* satellite customer; I have my HD DVR E* model Vip 622 installation scheduled for next week. I just heard about this Dtv HR20 and am intrigued. If I switch to Dtv I can get a good deal as a new customer although I would have to purchase this HR20 separately. I have read things about Dtv HD not being of the same quality as E* and of course not having the quantity of HD channels. How is the PQ with this new system? If it gets good reviews then I may switch as E* will require an 18 mo commitment with my upgrade. to switch or not...that is the question!

I hooked up the HR20 to my 2 day old Sony KDL-40XBR3 and there is no sound through HDMI. I get a messgae on the TV that says "audio device not supported".

Oh well, at least I can get a picture and can listen through my HT. I couldn't get any picture at all from my HR10-250 via HDMI. I also have a H20 that I moved to a different room and had no audio/video problem with that unit.

Thanks for the tips guys. I'm going to go back to the HR10 Tivo unit until this thing is closer to fully functioning. Our favorite programs aren't available until they update this thing. I called tech support and they said it could be 90 days before OTA is activated. Strange that OTA is such a big ordeal to implement.

What I don't get is that for the screens that list large numbers of items (todo list, prioritizer, etc) why do you only get to see 5 items at a time!? 80% of the screen is taken up with the sidebar or a useless help banner or the currently playing channel, leaving room to see only five items at a time out of a list of potentially hundreds.

Mind you, all I've seen are screenshots, but from what i know about my current D* hardware, it seems to jive with the shots.

What's up here? Shouldn't they strive to maximize the screen space for the things you actually need to see? I feel I'm going to be insanely disappointed after being an 8 year tivo owner.
-Mike

There are things that are better than TiVo, there are things that are worse. There will things you will happy about, there will be things you will miss.

It's not a TiVo, it's useless to hope it will be the same. If you want an integrated receiver/DVR, you will need the HR20 for new content. It's not perfect, but for me at least, the improvements outweigh its faults.

I see a lot of people posting that OTA is currently not active on the HR-20 but will be in a few months. What I haven't seen is -- WHY? OTA HD seems like such a basic function. Is there some technical reason that it could not be enabled when this product debuted? Doesn't make any sense to me.

Our new HR20 is installed under the bed until OTA is activated. The lack of HD on PBS and other independent HD networks is a fatal flaw in our house.

I'm sure things will get better down the road. Until then, we're back on the HR10.

LG makes receivers that end in -600.
RCA makes receivers that end in -100.

Who makes the HR20-700 for DirecTV?

UPS dropped off my HR20-700 yesterday. I don't have a AT9 dish but do have an OTA which receives all the SFBA HD stations. Alas, the antenna is disabled for the HR20 and since I don't have a AT9, I currently have no local HD with the HR20. The only useful MPEG4 station is FSNBA-HD but I get that via Comcast. Since I use diplexers to get my OTA/Cable along with satellite, the AT9 becomes problematic.

Other than that, it took about 40 minutes to swap a Samsung TS160 with the HR20-700. Most of that was downloading update 008e.

My first impressions of the remote is that it sucks. The button positions are unnatural and its impossible to use in the dark since you can't tell what's what.

In summary, the HR20-700 makes me apprecriate the HR10-250 even more. It even makes wonder if a Series 3 TiVo might be a better alternative.

I've been using my HR20 for about a week. It's my third DVR (though my first HD one), after Ultimate and Tivo. I have to say I'm disappointed. Yeah, it records HD, but in terms of UI ease and unit reliability, it's the buggiest of the three. Sometimes it freezes. Some shows don't record successfully at all. Sometimes when I press rewind during live viewing, the thing freezes and I have to change channels to unfreeze, thereby losing my buffer. There's no rhyme or reason to it. Just last night I was watching a concert and pressed record. Everything looked normal, yet when I went back to review it later, I was greeted with black screen. This has happened a couple times, and the first time it happens with something I really care about, I'll be enraged.

Anyone else experiencing viewing/recording glitches?

None of your DVR's records MPEG 4, and none of them from a brand new satellite that does nothing but MPEG 4.

So yeah, it's buggy, but then (like it or not) we are early adopter beta testers. Have you noticed that the unit has only been officially released in on area? That should tell you something. At least D* is not Dish, who would have released it nationally with all the known bugs.

All of the issues you mentioned have been well documented and described in this forum countless times. D* is aware of the issues, and the latest update patch is currently in beta. What glitches it attempts to fix is unknown, but you may want to wait and not let your disappointment get the best of you.

None of your DVR's records MPEG 4, and none of them from a brand new satellite that does nothing but MPEG 4.

So yeah, it's buggy, but then (like it or not) we are early adopter beta testers. Have you noticed that the unit has only been officially released in on area? That should tell you something. At least D* is not Dish, who would have released it nationally with all the known bugs.

All of the issues you mentioned have been well documented and described in this forum countless times. D* is aware of the issues, and the latest update patch is currently in beta. What glitches it attempts to fix is unknown, but you may want to wait and not let your disappointment get the best of you.

I'm not sure why I'm being lectured for simply responding to the thread's topic. I'm obviously well aware that this DVR is different, as I said as much. I obviously know about the rollout schedule, as I'm as early an adopter as you'll find in my market. Moreover, this is not a beta. Betas are billed as such and freely distributed to beta testers. This is a commercial release sold through retail outlets. To call it a beta now is disingenuous excuse-making. Do I expect bugs in a 1.0 release? Yes. Did I expect this many? No. Did I expect the unit to fail at doing its basest function, that being the simple recording of a program? An emphatic no. Clearly, I'm the problem.

I'm not sure why I'm being lectured for simply responding to the thread's topic. I'm obviously well aware that this DVR is different, as I said as much. I obviously know about the rollout schedule, as I'm as early an adopter as you'll find in my market. Moreover, this is not a beta. Betas are billed as such and freely distributed to beta testers. This is a commercial release sold through retail outlets. To call it a beta now is disingenuous excuse-making. Do I expect bugs in a 1.0 release? Yes. Did I expect this many? No. Did I expect the unit to fail at doing its basest function, that being the simple recording of a program? An emphatic no. Clearly, I'm the problem.

If you are so "aware", then why did you list all the problems that have been listed before? And why did you not expect the problems, since they have been well documented before you got yours installed.

You can play around with semantics all you want. But if you buy first generation -anything- at initial release, you are a beta tester. As I said before, like it or not. And, in fact, the CSRs at DirecTV still refer to the HR20 as "being beta tested in the LA area." That's from their script.

Ask any of us who got first generation TiVos. If you think the HR20 has more problems than typically expected, think again.

Hi,
I'm new to the MPEG-4 discussion, but our building (MDU) may be putting in a new DirecTv distribution system and I'm curious about some of the comments here.

Lots of discussion of the HR20's current inability to record OTA-HD material. I thought that one of the benefits of the new MPEG-4 system was that HD-LIL would be available, so the device could record your local stations broadcasts in HD as received from the satellite. I guess if some stations were not available in MPEG-4, one poster mentioned PBS-HD, then the OTA tuner would be the only choice. PBS-HD would be one of my most watched channels for sure.

From my perspective, as a 5 year user of Tivo without HD, having to wait a few months for the capability to record OTA-HD is not that big a deal if I get the other local channels from the sat in HD, plus all the other national DirecTv feeds. Those of you that have been used to watching a lot of HD recently might certainly have a different threshold of what is acceptable versus not acceptable :)

Robert

If you are so "aware", then why did you list all the problems that have been listed before? And why did you not expect the problems, since they have been well documented before you got yours installed.

You can play around with semantics all you want. But if you buy first generation -anything- at initial release, you are a beta tester. As I said before, like it or not. And, in fact, the CSRs at DirecTV still refer to the HR20 as "being beta tested in the LA area." That's from their script.

Ask any of us who got first generation TiVos. If you think the HR20 has more problems than typically expected, think again.I think eggre is just posting about his distaste for the HR20 to be able to do the most basic function (along with some other smaller problems) that a DVR can do: record a program reliably

I, for one, welcome as many people who post both praises and problems about the HR20 even if those problems overlap. If we have 50 posts in here saying how it can't reliably record programs, then it's a very serious problem. If one person posts it and no one else has the problem, it could be a fluke.

Just because someone else may have already mentioned the problem doesn't mean someone else can't come along and post that they're having the same problem. I'm just closely following these HR20 threads to see when it finally makes it to a quality that I can live with (and has dual live buffers).

Is it true there are no dual live buffers? Wow what a fatal flaw. I just got mine and haven't hooked it up yet.

Will they be able to upgrade the programing to "enable" dual buffers later or is that not a programable/learnable function?

Is it true there are no dual live buffers? Wow what a fatal flaw. I just got mine and haven't hooked it up yet.

Will they be able to upgrade the programing to "enable" dual buffers later or is that not a programable/learnable function?Yes it's true, no dual buffers. Not only that, it can't remember your pause point on a tuner even if both are recording. So if you're watching tuner 1 and it's being recorded and your 30 mins behind, you pause, hit the previous channel button and switch to tuner 2 then back to tuner 1 you'll be live again instead of being paused.

Oh, and yes, they are currently "reviewing" how they could add dual buffers. I think it's mostly because they got such a serious outcry on dbstalk (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=62118) .

I think eggre is just posting about his distaste for the HR20 to be able to do the most basic function (along with some other smaller problems) that a DVR can do: record a program reliably

I, for one, welcome as many people who post both praises and problems about the HR20 even if those problems overlap. If we have 50 posts in here saying how it can't reliably record programs, then it's a very serious problem. If one person posts it and no one else has the problem, it could be a fluke.

Just because someone else may have already mentioned the problem doesn't mean someone else can't come along and post that they're having the same problem. I'm just closely following these HR20 threads to see when it finally makes it to a quality that I can live with (and has dual live buffers).

I agree with all that. But I question why anyone would compare the HR20 with other units that have been in production for several years.

The issues with the HR20 are nearly all with MPEG4. I am not aware of any difficulties with watch/recording/playback of MPEG2. So I don't see how anyone can seriously say that it fails at its most basic function, especially this early in generation one.

I agree with all that. But I question why anyone would compare the HR20 with other units that have been in production for several years.

The issues with the HR20 are nearly all with MPEG4. I am not aware of any difficulties with watch/recording/playback of MPEG2. So I don't see how anyone can seriously say that it fails at its most basic function, especially this early in generation one.Ahh so the recording issue is only with MPEG4 channels? That's at least a bit more acceptable.

Yes it's true, no dual buffers. Not only that, it can't remember your pause point on a tuner even if both are recording. So if you're watching tuner 1 and it's being recorded and your 30 mins behind, you pause, hit the previous channel button and switch to tuner 2 then back to tuner 1 you'll be live again instead of being paused.

Oh, and yes, they are currently "reviewing" how they could add dual buffers. I think it's mostly because they got such a serious outcry on dbstalk (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=62118) .

Directv is closely monitoring Dbstalk re: HR20.

One thing to keep in mind, and for me is far better than have dual buffers - the single buffer is not 90 minutes instead of 30.

I rarely satellite swapped, but I have many times turned on the TV to find a show I really wanted to see already well into progress. Having that larger buffer is great.

Directv is closely monitoring Dbstalk re: HR20.

One thing to keep in mind, and for me is far better than have dual buffers - the single buffer is not 90 minutes instead of 30.

I rarely satellite swapped, but I have many times turned on the TV to find a show I really wanted to see already well into progress. Having that larger buffer is great.I'm sure you meant "now" instead of "not" :) Anyways, I switch tuners all the time so it's a deal breaker for me. My hacked SD DTivo has dual 60 minute buffers and is awesome. Unfortunately, my HR10-250 is a stock unit and has the 30 minute buffers which stinks. I'd be willing to give up buffer space for dual buffers though. Guess we'll have to wait and see what D* does.

Has anyone tried installing an internal hard drive larger than the one it comes with to see if the device recognizes and records to it? This question was raised on another website but never answered.

Robert

Has anyone tried installing an internal hard drive larger than the one it comes with to see if the device recognizes and records to it? This question was raised on another website but never answered.Check out http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=62741

Check out http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=62741

Thanks Barge,
The 32 page review thread I read didn't link to this thread. Gotchaa was one of the first people to get one, so I'm not surprised he finally cracked it open. So much info, and so little time :)

Late addendum: I just read through that entire thread and here is the eynopsis for those interested. The internal 300GB hard drive can be replaced with a larger unit and run fine. Gotchaa used a 500GB drive first then a 750GB drive. Note that this is replacing the internal drive, and not using the external SATA port which is currently not active.

Only real problem reported was that the MyVod drive space available calculation didn't seem to know that there was a bigger drive in. Presumably, since this is just the software reporting the space available, DirecTv could fix the software to correctly report the space available when a user puts in a bigger drive.

Oh, one other thing. Seagate drives are preferable because they report temperature back to the unit, and the Maxtor drive he tested did not.

Seems to be good news for those looking to expand their internal capacity. With drive prices falling like they are, I can foresee 1TB systems out there before the end of the year :-)

Robert

Thanks Barge,
The 32 page review thread I read didn't link to this thread. Gotchaa was one of the first people to get one, so I'm not surprised he finally cracked it open. So much info, and so little time :)

Late addendum: I just read through that entire thread and here is the eynopsis for those interested. The internal 300GB hard drive can be replaced with a larger unit and run fine. Gotchaa used a 500GB drive first then a 750GB drive. Note that this is replacing the internal drive, and not using the external SATA port which is currently not active.

Only real problem reported was that the MyVod drive space available calculation didn't seem to know that there was a bigger drive in. Presumably, since this is just the software reporting the space available, DirecTv could fix the software to correctly report the space available when a user puts in a bigger drive.

Oh, one other thing. Seagate drives are preferable because they report temperature back to the unit, and the Maxtor drive he tested did not.

Seems to be good news for those looking to expand their internal capacity. With drive prices falling like they are, I can foresee 1TB systems out there before the end of the year :-)

RobertThanks for the synopsis, I didn't want to read through the whole thread since I don't own the HR20 (but may have to upgrade to it in the future). Did he manage to fill up the 500 or 750GB drive to make sure that the whole drive was used and not stopped by software at 250?

Thanks for the synopsis, I didn't want to read through the whole thread since I don't own the HR20 (but may have to upgrade to it in the future). Did he manage to fill up the 500 or 750GB drive to make sure that the whole drive was used and not stopped by software at 250?

Yes, he filled them completely up till they could no longer record any more. Went back and verified that all the shows were still intact recordings.

Another interesting thing too... After he filled up the 500GB, he deleted all the shows but 4. He then filled up the 750GB drive. He swapped it out and put the 500GB back in and it still had the 4 shows, and he was able to use it again.

Nice! So did he just have to copy the image from the original drive to the new one?

Nice! So did he just have to copy the image from the original drive to the new one?

Nope, just dropped in a new unformatted drive and the system works fine. The beauty of the newer recorders, compared to say an old Tivo unit, is that they use the hard drive only for show storage. The software that runs the unit is stored in EEPROM on the motherboard. This is great because not only does it allow for just swapping in a new drive whenever you want, it also means that should the drive fail in the future, you can just pop in a new one and not worry about whether there needs to be anything on it.

I upgraded a Tivo about 5 years ago in order to increase the storage capacity. Ran into the headache mentioned above where the SW was stored on the hard drive. Back then, I had to go through an entire manual procedure to get it up and working. Now places like Weaknees.com will sell you any capacity that you want.

Robert

Nope, just dropped in a new unformatted drive and the system works fine. The beauty of the newer recorders, compared to say an old Tivo unit, is that they use the hard drive only for show storage. The software that runs the unit is stored in EEPROM on the motherboard.Now that's definitely a cool feature!

I have experienced a couple issues that I don't think have been posted yet so if they have been, sorry:

1) If I stop recording a program before its scheduled stop time, I have to watch that program from the start every time, as the HR20 will not let me play the program back from the point where I exit. If I don't watch the entire recorded program all at once, I have to FF>> all the way to where I left off. I have only seen this happen when I stop recording a program early.

2) No matter what I do, I cannot start play of a program that is still recording. The screen just freezes when I press play. I must wait till the program stops recording before I can start playing it from the beginning.


These incidents occured while recording locals or MPEG2.

I reported this to D* advanced technical support.

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?

HR20 is NOT good.

I received an HR20 even though I ordered an HR10-250. They (D*) said they were out of the HR10 so I got the NEW Improved HR20.

1. I have the 5 lnb dish but locals are not available in my area over satellite.
2. The OTA is disabled.

I have NFL ST. If there is a game that is block because it is on locally......I CAN"T WATCH IT. How much spent on NFL ST and HD DVR and I can't watch a local game in HD unless I bypass all the junk I paid for and go direct with an antenna?

3. No dual buffers...........game over...... I will buy an HR10-250 somewhere and stick with it.


I got the HR20 as part of the freebie offer so i will keep it and hang on for the updates rather than....... well what should I do with it.

Can I sell it or will they want it back?

How are the blackout rules, which are well publicized, a fault of the dvr?

Regardless, I was an early adopter of Tivo, and it always "just worked". MPEG-4 or not, it sounds like this unit just doesn't cut it. One of my friends ordered one, I'll see how much he likes it before I plop down the cash.

He did say he got his for free from D*. Wonder if anyone else was successful in doing that.
-Mike

I have experienced a couple issues that I don't think have been posted yet so if they have been, sorry:

1) If I stop recording a program before its scheduled stop time, I have to watch that program from the start every time, as the HR20 will not let me play the program back from the point where I exit. If I don't watch the entire recorded program all at once, I have to FF>> all the way to where I left off. I have only seen this happen when I stop recording a program early.



Press "exit" when leaving a recorded program will save your place when you return.

Will these problems be able to be fixed via software upgrade?

Press "exit" when leaving a recorded program will save your place when you return.

I thought I tried that. I'll try again.

Thnx

How do you simply pause one tuner........ switch to the other....... then switch back and make it stay paused?

How do you simply pause one tuner........ switch to the other....... then switch back and make it stay paused?

You can't do that on a HR20.

I got my HR-20 yesterday afternoon. It downloaded a new firmware version immediately, as expected. However I got another update this morning at 427 am CST. I am now at 0xCC. Is everyone else at this revision?

Edit: nevermind. They are already talking about it over on DBS

I was playing back a recorded program early this morning when the HR20 rebooted and automatically started the software update.

This'll probably be a dumb question, but I've had a media center up until now. Other than the normal monthly charge for a set box, is there any additional monthly fee for the HR20 that you wouldn't pay for the H20?

This'll probably be a dumb question, but I've had a media center up until now. Other than the normal monthly charge for a set box, is there any additional monthly fee for the HR20 that you wouldn't pay for the H20?

The HR20 is a DVR and the H20 is only a receiver so, yes there is a monthly DVR service fee.

The HR20 manual talks about configuring the resolutions supported by the display device, but I could not find that in the setup. All I found was the choice of 3 X 4 and 16 X 9 for the TV Type. Can anybody help? Could it be that the manual is talking about a previous version of the SW than the present one? Thanks, guys!

The HR20 manual talks about configuring the resolutions supported by the display device, but I could not find that in the setup. All I found was the choice of 3 X 4 and 16 X 9 for the TV Type. Can anybody help? Could it be that the manual is talking about a previous version of the SW than the present one? Thanks, guys!

Press: Menu, Setup, TV Type. Use the arrow up button to highlight TV Resolutions.

?Thank you very much, Teddy. I tried many times, but did not notice the two tabs above. It is guys like you that make this forum a worthwhile place to bellong to.

I have experienced a couple issues that I don't think have been posted yet so if they have been, sorry:

1) If I stop recording a program before its scheduled stop time, I have to watch that program from the start every time, as the HR20 will not let me play the program back from the point where I exit. If I don't watch the entire recorded program all at once, I have to FF>> all the way to where I left off. I have only seen this happen when I stop recording a program early.

2) No matter what I do, I cannot start play of a program that is still recording. The screen just freezes when I press play. I must wait till the program stops recording before I can start playing it from the beginning.


These incidents occured while recording locals or MPEG2.

I reported this to D* advanced technical support.

I have had both the issues and the reverse of them. First...my unit was just put in 2 hours ago. I recorded a section of a program, watched 5 minutes of it and then stopped it. I then started the program again and it did start from where I left off ( I wish there was a way to start over from the beginning??).

Now..that being said...a few minutes later I went back to the program and it started from the beginning no matter what I tried (stop, pause, exit etc.). I recorded another program, watched a few minutes and stopped it. It also started over from the beginning when I went back in to watch it again.

I reset the system and now it is back to starting from where I left off.

1) Does anyone know what it is supposed to do? (i.e. start from the beginning, start from where you left off)

2) If it is supposed to start from where you left off, is there a quick way to start from the beginning?

3) Is there a good place to report bugs to D*?

Thanks...

I have had both the issues and the reverse of them. First...my unit was just put in 2 hours ago. I recorded a section of a program, watched 5 minutes of it and then stopped it. I then started the program again and it did start from where I left off ( I wish there was a way to start over from the beginning??).

Now..that being said...a few minutes later I went back to the program and it started from the beginning no matter what I tried (stop, pause, exit etc.). I recorded another program, watched a few minutes and stopped it. It also started over from the beginning when I went back in to watch it again.

I reset the system and now it is back to starting from where I left off.

1) Does anyone know what it is supposed to do? (i.e. start from the beginning, start from where you left off)

2) If it is supposed to start from where you left off, is there a quick way to start from the beginning?

3) Is there a good place to report bugs to D*?

Thanks...

There is no way, AFAIK, to start over from the beginning like with the HR10-250.

The HR20 is supposed to continue from where you left off. Since I posted these two bugs, I have not bothered to stop recording of a program early for fear that it will start from the beginning every time. I still have the program saved that I had problems with when I mentioned this earlier and I still cannot continue from where I left off. It starts from the beginning every time.

I am no longer having the other problem (knock on wood) that I mentioned. I can now start watching a program that is still recording.

You should contact D* and ask to speak to advanced tech support. That's what I did. Don't waste your time talking to tier 1 support.

There is no way, AFAIK, to start over from the beginning like with the HR10-250.

The HR20 is supposed to continue from where you left off. Since I posted these two bugs, I have not bothered to stop recording of a program early for fear that it will start from the beginning every time. I still have the program saved that I had problems with when I mentioned this earlier and I still cannot continue from where I left off. It starts from the beginning every time.

I am no longer having the other problem (knock on wood) that I mentioned. I can now start watching a program that is still recording.

You should contact D* and ask to speak to advanced tech support. That's what I did. Don't waste your time talking to tier 1 support.

I would recommend going into settings and doing a system restart. It will take about 10 minutes, but you do not lose your save programs etc. This corrected the issue of restarting from the beginning.

I got D* installed about a month ago. They installed a h20 and a Hr10-250. On the H20 I received local chennel but not on the Hr 10-250. I learned of this during the install and the csr I spoke to said they would switch it out with the Hr20-700 when it came out. Just this week I went to Best Buy an bought the HD20-700 with the understanding from DTV is that they would credit my account for the new box.
So I installed it and I still do not have local channels. And I still have not gotten my credit for the new DVR. I have been frusterated to wits end on DTV. What is the difference between the the Hr10, hr20 and the h20 in not been able to get local channels? Lucky I had a sevice call in because I was getting bad reception from the 110 sat. service guy said my locals will be fixed during the next software update early this week.

I am so fed up with these people. I ordered NFL,superfan paid 399 for HR10-250 (still haven't 100 rebate) and about a month later I still have no local service on a DVR that has cost me $700 dollars.

Does anybody have any clues why all this is happening? I have read this whole forum and nobody has mention this problem.

Just hooked up my hr20-700. First impressions are that I'm somewhat disappointed. Watching the Pats/Broncos on NBC in HD. The picture quality is not as good as with the MPEG2 stuff seen on the hr10-250. Also, the stream seems choppy as if the processor can't keep up. I imagine this has already been mentioned, but just thought add opinion.

-Tony

Had my HR20 installed this past friday and my first impression is that it towers over the HR10. First off its much quicker in all aspects. Recording, the guide, setting up the season pass and so far its been flawless. I can't say as if I've seen any difference in picture quality, pretty much the same, the picture quality has more to do with the station I'm watching rather than any of the equipment I have. TV has come a long way in the past 5 years and I expect it to do the same in the next five. Hey Red Sox in HD, maybe its just because your watching the Red Sox instead of the Yankees thats so disappointing. Couldn't resist.


Joe

I like it overall, mainly just cause I can record my locals(live in the sticks). I have had issues with it freezing up twice and a few times I have went to a recording and there was nothing there. Just a blank screen where my recording should have been playing.

Just this week I went to Best Buy an bought the HD20-700 with the understanding from DTV is that they would credit my account for the new box.
So I installed it and I still do not have local channels. And I still have not gotten my credit for the new DVR. I have been frusterated to wits end on DTV.
Never trust a CSRs word. Get names and check your online balance to confirm any credits. How were they supposed to know you bought one at Best Buy anyway?

I've had mine for a week now and have experienced several annoyances that have been mentioned here. Namely the losing audio and things just not getting recorded. I'm also baffled by the lists only using 1/3 of the screen real estate.

Some things that I haven't seen mentioned...

The controls can be non-responsive, delayed or jumpy in IR or RF mode.
Sometimes fast forward jumps right to "2," sometimes it stays at "1." No consistency.
I'll press a menu button and the menu will flash up for a second and then go away. Occasionally, parts of the UI will turn pink briefly and then go back to blue.
Sometimes a Series Link setup fails but claims it's set to record and gives me a "Prioritizer 15 of 14" message.

None of these problems have anything to do with MPEG-4. It's just really buggy. I'm sure most of these things will get worked out eventually, so I'm not too bothered by any of it.

The missing feature that's bothering me is a lack of some kind of HD priority setting on autorecords. I've got a "DETROIT TIGERS" keyword set to autorecord and it consistently chooses to record the SD broadcast when there's usually an HD alternative (on local network channels or ESPN). I wish it would default to HD channels or at least give you the option to set an autorecord to "HD preferred" or something.

My first impressions: 8 out of 10 stars.

First, it seems much better than my H20. Picture seems better, and response time is much better.

I did have two "issues" but I think they are non-issues.

1) First two shows I recorded(Earl and Office) had an occasional pop in the audio during playback. I wasn't happy. I have it connected via HDMI to my receiver.

Anyway, it appears that it was a problem on that specific channel as no other recordings have had the issue.

2) I already had two shows scheduled to record and i went to do a third. It gave me the recording conflict message. I was certain I told it to not record the 2nd show. But it still recorded that show and not the 1st show. I'll make extra sure what I do next time. I'm sure it was user error.

Other than that, it's recorded everytime and no other issues.

I have done most of my recording on a Media Center PC up until now. I will say this, I miss some of the ease of navigation you get with a Medica center remote that you don't get with the HR20.

It seems that most of the discussions on the HR20-700's latest SW update are being discussed at http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=65420&page=9 these days.

How do I find if my receiver's software has been upgraded to version 0xD1? I went through the menu but couln't find where the software version is listed. :confused:

Sorry if this has been discussed as I only read through a couple of the previous posts... anyhow. Is anyone else pissed that the OTA functionality is not working right off the bat? I lost all my HD locals, and right in the middle of football season. My Sony doesn't have a internal HD tuner, so I'm screwed till they finally release the update. Anyone have any suggested work arounds?

Thanks all

No dual buffers
No 30 sec skip
No OTA
No HD20

No dual buffers
No 30 sec skip
No OTA
No HD20

It HAS a 30 second skip. And it's the HR20, not HD20.

Hello there ST...I've only seen one comment on the unit saying something about a 30 sec "slip" working ok. All others I've seen say no 30 sec skip. How is it implimented? Thanks.

Hessell,

There is no 30 second skip on the HR20, but there is a 30 second slip. The difference is that the skip goes directly to a point 30 secs on, the slip will FFWD to it, so you do see some frames in between.

I confused "skip" with "FF>>". What Andrew_J_M describes is correct.

Thanks guys.

There is no way, AFAIK, to start over from the beginning like with the HR10-250.

The HR20 is supposed to continue from where you left off. Since I posted these two bugs, I have not bothered to stop recording of a program early for fear that it will start from the beginning every time. I still have the program saved that I had problems with when I mentioned this earlier and I still cannot continue from where I left off. It starts from the beginning every time.

I am no longer having the other problem (knock on wood) that I mentioned. I can now start watching a program that is still recording.

You should contact D* and ask to speak to advanced tech support. That's what I did. Don't waste your time talking to tier 1 support.

Yes there is a way to start over. Press the replay button and hold it down. That will set you back to the beginning. If you press advance and hold it down it will take you a minute or so from the end of the recording. If it doesn't work for you try it again. The HR20 doesn't seem to see the remote very well.

I have had my HR20-700 now for a week. It solved the audio digital switching loud cralking noise problem. YEAH FIANLLY!!!!! However when switching from station to station especially from standard def to high def and then back it takes a while for the picture to come up as it goes black and flashes around like it's hunting for it and after 5 sec it appears. Why just why can't they get these things to work right? It seems there is always something a miss!

Yes there is a way to start over. Press the replay button and hold it down. That will set you back to the beginning. If you press advance and hold it down it will take you a minute or so from the end of the recording. If it doesn't work for you try it again. The HR20 doesn't seem to see the remote very well.


Thanks so much for that tip. Just tried it out, and yes both work as you say.
I was about to break out the manual, but I hate having to do that.

But I'm still surprised when you go to play a show, that there's not an option to play from the beginning.

I agree about the remote ... seems to have a narrow line of sight.
To bad they made the RF remote an option on the HR20, and it's standard
on the H20 receiver.

Is there an easy way to go to live TV, and then come back to the show you were watching? When I do this, I have to scroll thru the recorded list, back to my show.
On a Replay, the show you were watching stays right there, so you don't have to search for it.

I had Time Warner HD-DVR and was pretty happy with it, but wanted the NFL Network so I called D* to start service. They installed a HR20-700 and a 5LNB dish but forgot to bring an OTA HD antenna, so I ordered one on-line. I got it yesterday and connected and called D* for assistance. Had I read this forum sooner I would have known that the OTA option is not available. I was pissed because D* is not providing locals in HD in my area (El Paso, TX). D* claims it will be available by the end of this year, but I don't trust them. Why would they offer to install an OTA antenna if it wouldn't even work? Besides that problem, here are other issues I've had with the HR200-700:

1. It just stops. I'll be watching something and the screen freezes. No rewind no FF, just stops. I have to change channels to reset it.

2. Doesn't record full show. I set it to record Walking Tall on Showtime and it only recorded about 30 minutes of it and then stopped.

3. I set it to record Domino on TMC and it didn't record anything.

4. When changing from a HD channel to a regular channel, it takes about 3-5 seconds to receive it. It goes through three or four green screens before showing me the channel.

5. The remote is horrible. I have to hit guide button twice to see the guide? Give me a break. The buttons also seem to be in bad places and I usually hit the wrong button when trying to do it from memory.

6. The lights in the front are very annoying. There's a circle of blue lights that don't seem to serve any purpose and at first looked great, but now are kind of a beating.

7. No clock on the front of the unit.

Since I'm still within seven days of installing it, I was given the option of returning it and canceling my subscription, so I did. I'm going to stick with Time Warner for now. I get local HD channels and the DVR is pretty good but more importantly it's RELIABLE. There are too many bugs in the HR20's software for me to deal with.

I hope this helps you decide on upgrading/subscribing.


G

I have had my HR20-700 now for a week. It solved the audio digital switching loud cralking noise problem. YEAH FIANLLY!!!!! However when switching from station to station especially from standard def to high def and then back it takes a while for the picture to come up as it goes black and flashes around like it's hunting for it and after 5 sec it appears. Why just why can't they get these things to work right? It seems there is always something a miss!

It is working correctly. The sync process you see is your TV trying to sync to the HR20 output. Turn off "native" in the HR20 and lock it on the resoution your TV supports, 720p or 1080i. The "flashing" and "hunting" will disappear.

Are the "little" things about the same as the 10-250?

-ability to extend recording minutes to hours beyond scheduled stop time
-ability to easily move season passes up/down priority list
-specifying "first run only", "repeats & first run", etc

I wish they'd just stuck w/ Tivo. And, I hope my Harmony remote's gonna work with the hr20.

Are the "little" things about the same as the 10-250?

-ability to extend recording minutes to hours beyond scheduled stop time
-ability to easily move season passes up/down priority list
-specifying "first run only", "repeats & first run", etc

I wish they'd just stuck w/ Tivo. And, I hope my Harmony remote's gonna work with the hr20.


I don't use these three features but the HR20 definitely works with my Harmony 659.

I don't use these three features but the HR20 definitely works with my Harmony 659.
Good to know. Thanks.

Good to know. Thanks.

-ability to extend recording minutes to hours beyond scheduled stop time
-ability to easily move season passes up/down priority list
-specifying "first run only", "repeats & first run", etc

Yes to the first one.

Not sure about the second one but you can set the unit to record all instances of a certain program and tell it what to do with the program if the disk is full.

Not sure about this one because I don't use season passes. My TIVO always screwed it up somehow and I didn't end up watching them anyway so I got used to not using it.

GOHD,

Yes to the first.

Yes to the second.

Yes to the third.

I was favorably impressed during the 2 hours that my HR20 worked properly after install today. It crashed after that, so I'll be requesting a replacement. The technician said this was his 3rd HR20 installation, and apparently 2 of the 3 were defective.

built111, yes I have native on...I turned it off...thanks for the tip!

As to the Harmony, they do have the HR20... my problem was that I have the H20 and HR20 both in the same location. Result was that controlling one changed both! Solution was to change the DirecTV remote AV1 to control one or the other (instructions appear on screen). At the time, several days ago, Harmony tech support didn't have the AV1 codes. However, they found some enterprising soul who had painstakingly entered them individually, and downloaded that set to my remote... and IT WORKED! I think they can now identify the AV1 codes and send them to anyone... but a call to tech support is required. Love my Harmony, and glad this worked.

It is working correctly. The sync process you see is your TV trying to sync to the HR20 output. Turn off "native" in the HR20 and lock it on the resoution your TV supports, 720p or 1080i. The "flashing" and "hunting" will disappear.
If I understand correctly, this would mean that my HR20 would scale everything to either 720p or 1080i, regardless of the original resolution. My TV (Sharp LC-37D90U) is native 1080p, so I think I'm best off sending it the native-formatted output (i.e. 480i, 720p or 1080i) and then letting the TV upscale it to 1080p? I do this but I don't like the longish delay everytime I change a channel while it syncs to the new resolution.

I tried telling the HR20 that my TV would only accept 720p or 1080i -- it ended up sending all the 480i out as 720p, and 1080i as 1080i. This gave me just about as much syncing delay as "native", so I went back to that.

What I'm trying to avoid is forcing the HR20 to only send me 1080i, because I think that would actually downgrade my 720p PQ? In other words I'd rather go 720p straight up to 1080p, rather than 720p to 1080i to 1080p? Thanks.

My HR20 seems to have audio drop-outs at the most inopportune times.

Doesn't matter which channel, it seems to happen randomly.

Does anyone else have this issue? Is there a fix? Is this just another "beta" bug?

Thanx to anyone with the knowledge to share.

Is there anyway to use your AV receiver volume with the D* remote. This is bothering me! I never you the speakers on my TV. I just had the HR20 installed last night and it's froze three times. Local HD channels not working. I thought I read somewhere that the Terk 5X8 multiswitch was not compatible with MPEG4? The installer was not the brightest bulb on the tree and he didn'y know. Is this my problem with not gettinglocals in HD? WHY DID D* have to go and ruin the relationship with Tivo :mad: I love Tivo but not the slow menus no HD locals (even though mine aren't working anyway!)

I just had the HR20 installed last night and it's froze three times. Local HD channels not working. . . WHY DID D* have to go and ruin the relationship with Tivo.Same problem with my new HR20 - freezups when
the local HD channels are tuned. They are shipping a replacement.

The HR20 has quite a bit of Tivo functionality. I understand the new 3-year agreement that D* made with Tivo allows this without fear of patent infringement.

Is there anyway to use your AV receiver volume with the D* remote. This is bothering me! I never you the speakers on my TV. I just had the HR20 installed last night and it's froze three times. Local HD channels not working. I thought I read somewhere that the Terk 5X8 multiswitch was not compatible with MPEG4? The installer was not the brightest bulb on the tree and he didn'y know. Is this my problem with not gettinglocals in HD? WHY DID D* have to go and ruin the relationship with Tivo :mad: I love Tivo but not the slow menus no HD locals (even though mine aren't working anyway!)

Yes you can progam the D* remote to control your AV receiver. I just set one up
to control an Onkyo. Just go into the Sat menu, and choose program remote.
You'll do one of the AVs for your brand (AV1 or AV2), and at the end, you repeat step one and enter (3) digits so the volume control works in all modes. It took me a few tries, but in the end, it did work.

As for the multi-switch, the new AT9 dish will NOT work correctly with the BMS-58.
I assume that's what you have since you mentioned Terk. The new switch is made by Zinwell. It goes from 250-2150 MHz. They are available on eBay or Solid Signal...but I've seen cheaper on eBay.

What I'm trying to avoid is forcing the HR20 to only send me 1080i, because I think that would actually downgrade my 720p PQ? In other words I'd rather go 720p straight up to 1080p, rather than 720p to 1080i to 1080p? Thanks.

This is the way I use my HR20 and H20. Go to set up. Go to the display setup and find the resolutions. Uncheck all except 1080i. Set native to "off". The HR20 output will now always send 1080i, even on 480p and 720p programming. This also results in immediate switching to all channels, without the re-sync process.

I chose 1080i because that is what looks best on my Panny 42" HD Plasma. If you think 720p would look better on your 1080p display, lock it on that one by unchecking all resolutions except 720p.

I have the remote working for my Denon receiver but it's a pain to use. I have to switch that annoying slider thing on the top to AV1 just to adjust my volume and the back to change the channel and the cycle begins. Is there a better way so I can just leave it in the D* mode? I also thought that the Terk multiswitch isn't compatible but they left it in and it seems to be working.

Does the HR20 have "folders" or some other way of organizing my recorded shows? If not, after reading all the reviews, I may cancel my install date. I can live with the slower menu speed of the 10-250, which may even be fixed with the coming software upgrade.

gohd,

Yes the HR20 does have a way of organizing recorded shows. Let's say you record the Simpsons, it will create a folder called The Simpsons and drop the recorded Simpsons show in that folder.

gohd,

Yes the HR20 does have a way of organizing recorded shows. Let's say you record the Simpsons, it will create a folder called The Simpsons and drop the recorded Simpsons show in that folder.
Good to know. Thanks.

Have had this rcvr for about a week, and the only problem I've had so far is with the remote. When I noticed the problem, the remote would only work for "Guide", "List", "Exite" "Menu", and the power button. I could do nothing else with the remote at all. No changing channels, nothing. After enduring an interminable call to CS, where I had the "joy" of having someone who I could barely understand thru their accent try to step me thru their troubleshooting, they finally gave up and said they would send a replacement remote "at no charge". Ooh, thanks.

Silly me, I thought that they would send it next day, but no I get to wait up to 3 business days. I'm not holding my breath. If I didn't have an off-air antenna, I would be stuck with whatever channel it was stuck on.

Anybody else had any problems with the remote? I'm afraid the next one will do the same thing eventually.

Do you definitely have to have the 5lnb dish for the HR20-700?? They brought one out to install when I got the H20-100 but couldn't because of where I have to mount it.....too big and heavy. If yes, then I'll have to forego the HR20. But can I use the 10-250 with the smaller triple head dish? If not I guess I'll just get another H20 and skip the DVR for now.

My understanding is that D will give you a HR20-700 for free if you had a 10-250.
Is this correct and will they let you keep the 10-250?

My understanding is that D will give you a HR20-700 for free if you had a 10-250.
Is this correct and will they let you keep the 10-250?

1 - probably, based on your negotiating skills and account status
2 - possibly, based on how long you had it, your negotiating skills, and who shows up at your house

My understanding is that D will give you a HR20-700 for free if you had a 10-250.
Is this correct and will they let you keep the 10-250?

I kept mine. Put up a big fight and tell them you have lots of archived shows if need be. I made sure when I set up the installation that i would be keeping it.

If they are "owned" you are supposed to keep it. If they are "leased", theoretically they are supposed to be returned. The install company in my area says that it is their policy not to take ANY equipment.

I have 2 HR10s, one owned and one leased. I still have both after upgrading (for free, well actually for about $6 tax). I even called DirecTV about the leased one, and they have no idea what to do with it.

I posted this in the wrong place earlier.
If you are going to get an hr20 WAIT, it is not ready for prime time. Directv did an update last night that screwed mine up worse than ever. It locks up frequently, will not always fast forward, will sometimes record a ray screen, and has audio sync issues. My hr10-250 worked much better, the hr20 should still be in beta testing.

I posted this in the wrong place earlier.
If you are going to get an hr20 WAIT, it is not ready for prime time. Directv did an update last night that screwed mine up worse than ever. It locks up frequently, will not always fast forward, will sometimes record a ray screen, and has audio sync issues. My hr10-250 worked much better, the hr20 should still be in beta testing.

I chose to go for it, but I don't mind the early adopter process. I waited 2 years for the $1000 HR10-250. I JUMPED on this free HD DVR and I love it. I would rather get this box, with all of its problems, than pay $1000 for the HR10-250 anyday. It works great with my Pioneer Elite amp via optical and my Panny plasma via HDMI. Others seem to have problems but it really helps if you know what you are doing and are a little technical. If not, you might want to wait until another 5 or 10 releases.

There is no way, AFAIK, to start over from the beginning like with the HR10-250.

The HR20 is supposed to continue from where you left off. Since I posted these two bugs, I have not bothered to stop recording of a program early for fear that it will start from the beginning every time. I still have the program saved that I had problems with when I mentioned this earlier and I still cannot continue from where I left off. It starts from the beginning every time.

I am no longer having the other problem (knock on wood) that I mentioned. I can now start watching a program that is still recording.

You should contact D* and ask to speak to advanced tech support. That's what I did. Don't waste your time talking to tier 1 support.
As far as I can tell, the only way to go to the very beginning of a recording is holding down the 6-second slip back (replay button) for about 3-4 seconds. Subsequently, when you hold down the 30 second slip button it takes you right to the end.

I just got my HR20 this past Saturday and have lots to say - mostly good, but a couple of minor complaints. First of all, PQ is great. I know everyone says D* is HD Lite, but between my OTA and D* Local Channels, there is hardly any difference at all. It looks great, and the Dolby 5.1 with my Sony receiver is phenomenal. The other HD channels vary: Discovery is the best, while HBO HD & Showtime HD are slightly less, but still significantly better than SD or DVD in 480p.

A few complaints. As a TiVo user for SD w/ D*, there are a couple of features I have gotten used to. The most annoying to me is that the HR20 has no slip back when FFing or Rewinding (when you FF and it jumps back automatically by a few seconds when you stop). Does anyone know if this is something that D* will update?

Also, the updates are pretty frequent and happen in the early a.m., and you can't watch TV while it's happening - this morning it took 20 minutes for it to come back online.

Another thing that is a bit jarring is when I hit the 6-second rewind button multiple times in a row, the box will "freeze up" (the screen goes to black - almost like a hiccup) then about 2-3 seconds later the picture comes back. Is this because of HD specifically or is it an issue with the HR20?

And another thing is while I was watching a program that was already recorded, the "Searching for satellite signal in 1/2" message was continually flashing on the screen. With TiVo, that message only flashed when watching Live TV. Does anyone know if there is a way to opt out of this?

These are minor complaints however. I am otherwise VERY happy with my HR20. Great picture and very easy to use.

Anyone have a problem on their recorded shows where the volume disappears for about 5 seconds in the middle of a show. It happens every so often, maybe once within a 1 hour show. I haven't noticed this at any time other than when watching recorded shows, not live.

Anyone have a problem on their recorded shows where the volume disappears for about 5 seconds in the middle of a show. It happens every so often, maybe once within a 1 hour show. I haven't noticed this at any time other than when watching recorded shows, not live.
So far no, but I've only had mine for about 5 days. I have watched a decent amount of recorded shows already with no audio issues though. Every once in a while the video cuts out for about a second, then comes back, but the sound stays on.

Has anyone tried feeding the HR20 HD output via HDMI through an A/V receiver, rather than connecting it directly to the HD display? Some cable DVRs will not work if fed through an intermediary box like an A/V receiver, because of problems with the copy protection (HDCP). Does the HR20 have this problem? I'm specifically interested in whether it works through a Yamaha 2600 (HDMI in, HDMI out to the display) but any experience with intermediate devices would be helpful.

I'm just trying to figure out what the benifit to this thing is .... Can anyone tell me? I'm geting the free upgrade but I'm starting to wonder why ....Is the PQ better? I honestly don't even know the short tem benefits.

I'm just trying to figure out what the benifit to this thing is .... Can anyone tell me? I'm geting the free upgrade but I'm starting to wonder why ....Is the PQ better? I honestly don't even know the short tem benefits.

Hard to say. What are you upgrading from?

I'm just trying to figure out what the benifit to this thing is .... Can anyone tell me? I'm geting the free upgrade but I'm starting to wonder why ....Is the PQ better? I honestly don't even know the short tem benefits.

the benefit for me was to be able to record my HD locals. I couldnt do that before so it was big deal for me to get this ASAP. I've had it for about a month now. I'm glad it was free cuz if I had to pay for it I would have sent it back already.

I have had many audio issues where it just drops the sound for 5-10 seconds.

The picture has been choppy and blocky also.

It wont recognize the remote sometimes. I have to cycle thru the inputs back to the HR20 to get it to work. Sometimes I have to reset it to get results.

Last night it wouldnt FF>> at all. It would flicker back and forth between two frames. The only way I could get it to go forward was to hit the 30 sec button repeatedly. It has some annoying bugs.

I'm disapointed so far, but i figured I was getting something in the beta stage so I expected some problems.

I too have had the numerous problems eveyone is describing, none of which I had with my Hr10-250. I find it interesting that many people are happy even with numerous bugs and accept this as a beta unit. Remember we do pay a hefty monthly subscription fee to DTV and should not pay for something in beta. In the past when I have tested beta hardware and software, I was no paying for it. Why would anyone be happy with new buggy technology and pay for it? I wish I could run my business on this principle and have customers which are happy to pay me for a poor product.

Do you guys think I should just cancel the upgrade from the HR10-250 which I'm perfectly happy with - do you think they'll still give me the HR20 for free early next year?

Do you guys think I should just cancel the upgrade from the HR10-250 which I'm perfectly happy with - do you think they'll still give me the HR20 for free early next year?
I'm considering the same. Waiting to see the 10-250 software upgrade before I make a decision though.

I received the HR-20 a few weeks ago and have nothing but problems. It kept freezing up and then I had to reboot it. It won't fast forward through shows. It will start and then freeze. I can use the 30sec button but the fast forward and rewind get stuck. I called D* and they sent me a new one and this one does the same thing.

As far as the OTA HD Locals not working that others mentioned, I live in the Washington, D.C. area and my HD locals work fine with the exception of one night when they were all out. I have 2 nbc's, 2 fox's, 2 abc's and 2 cbs's. One HD and one not.

I think this box is not ready for prime time and wish I hadn't upgraded. We had 3 other tivo's and those all worked just fine.

I'm scheduled for an Oct 26th install - what # should I call to tell then, I want to wait but when I'm ready, I still want it for free. Retention? Thanks -

good eveing i recently got my hr20 also about a month now and so far i am as happy as i can be with a first launch product i have the same problems everyone else does and i would love dual buffer and also has anyone figured out how to skip forward while watching a recorded show ala tivo and im not talking about fast foward or the 30 second skip. im talkn about tivos feature where u could skip lets say a quarter of whole show? anyone out there understand what im talking about

For skip to next or previous tick, hold down the FF or the REW key for about three seconds. It won't go to the beginning or end that way though.

I have had my HR20-700 now for a week. It solved the audio digital switching loud cralking noise problem. YEAH FIANLLY!!!!!

How did you fix the audio crackling? This problem just started happening for me a couple of days ago. I thought it might be because of the last software update or something.

im talkn about tivos feature where u could skip lets say a quarter of whole show? anyone out there understand what im talking about

rhinomulisha - how do you use this skip feature? I didn't know this existed.

rhinomulisha - how do you use this skip feature? I didn't know this existed.

Methinks he is referring to the Tivo capability whereby during playback one can place his Tivo in 1X fast forward mode and while in said mode, you can click once on the advance button and the playback will skip to the next tick.

The HR20 works much the same way. Once can skip to the next tick by holding down the FF button for 3-4 seconds and the playback marker will advance to the next tick.

If you wish to skip to the end of the recording, you need only hold down the 30 second slide button for the same 3-4 seconds and the recording will jump forward to within 90 seconds of the end.

Dave

Thanks Dave. I get my HR20 this weekend. Well hopefully, it's been rescheduled once but i'm hopeful.

2 times must be a charm! :confused: :confused: :confused:


They just came for the 2nd time and brought the he wrong boxes again. They have done this 2x now.

Just sad.......

I think I am going with Dish Network.. I have had all I can take!

On my HR10-250 I could jump back and forth between two channels by hitting the Live TV button or the down navigation button. Is there a similar feature on the HR20, even if two programs are recording how can you toggle between the two?

Thanks in advance,
James

First off to everyone, thanks for being so informative.

My Samsung HD reciever is starting to falter. I looked on D* last night to see the HR20-700 upgrade. I called them to see what kind of deal to work out. They nearly had me until they said that OTA was not yet supported in the unit. I canceled immediately. I cannot believe that they would ship a unit that cannot recieve OTA. To this day, in nearly every setup i've seen OTA HD is far superior to the dish. Now reading here there seems to be nothing but problems.

I'd like to upgrade to stay with the times but i think i'll wait until my Samsung flat out dies, which could be soon.

This is what I wrote them:

I placed a order apx 1 month ago and the installers came out today to install it. They brought regular boxes not the hd-dvr boxes I bought. I have a letter on your letter head showing you are bringing two (2) hd-dvr at 198.00 or $99.00 a piece.

When I called they told me they are only going to install the regular hd boxes and not the hd-dvr boxes. I asked the young lady to look at her notes from when I bought them and she did confirm that is what I asked for. She then told me she would sell me the hd-dvr for $199.00 a piece but could only sell me one box.

If your sales person made an error that is a problem on your side to address not mine. This also sounds like bait and switch.. Sell one and bring another. I have been a customer of DTV for over 10 years and up to this point been very happy.

I am not sure where to take this at this point. I have a statement on your letter head showing what I bought and for what amount. At this point I would have to imagine you should look at lost revenuefrom a lost customer going to Dish Network. Direct Tv should stand behind the agreement made and sell me the products they said they would sell me

On my HR10-250 I could jump back and forth between two channels by hitting the Live TV button or the down navigation button. Is there a similar feature on the HR20, even if two programs are recording how can you toggle between the two?
Nope. The HR20 doesn't support dual live buffers, at least not the last time I checked. I don't own one but follow it's development closely. Not having dual live buffers is the main reason I'm not upgrading my HR10-250. So no toggling between the tuners (unless both are recording). You have the option of hitting the previous channel button and switching to the other tuner, but it won't save your buffer on the tuner you were originally viewing. If both tuners are recording you can switch between them using the prev channel button, but it won't remember where you were in the program. So if you're on tuner 2 and 10 minutes behind and switch to tuner 1 using prev channel, when you switch back to tuner 2 you'll be live again.

My Samsung HD reciever is starting to falter. I looked on D* last night to see the HR20-700 upgrade. I called them to see what kind of deal to work out. They nearly had me until they said that OTA was not yet supported in the unit. I canceled immediately. I cannot believe that they would ship a unit that cannot recieve OTA. To this day, in nearly every setup i've seen OTA HD is far superior to the dish. Now reading here there seems to be nothing but problems.

I'd like to upgrade to stay with the times but i think i'll wait until my Samsung flat out dies, which could be soon.
Correct, the HR20 doesn't support OTA right now. I'd bet that OTA support is coming pretty soon though. You can't just watch your locals via the mpeg4 HD channels until it supports OTA? It actually has dual OTA tuners in it, they just haven't been enabled them.

Correct, the HR20 doesn't support OTA right now. I'd bet that OTA support is coming pretty soon though. You can't just watch your locals via the mpeg4 HD channels until it supports OTA? It actually has dual OTA tuners in it, they just haven't been enabled them.

Ok, it seems i haven't done enough research on this. Can you tell me if the Mpeg4 HD is as good or better quality than OTA? If it is i'd be willing to wait for OTA.

It actually has dual OTA tuners in it, they just haven't been enabled.On page 19 of the manual, it states "You can record up to three programs at once (two satellite and one from an off-air antenna)." If you were in fact doing that, I wonder if the second OTA tuner could be engaged to view a live program. BTW, Customer Retention says OTA will be activated "by December 1st."

Ok, it seems i haven't done enough research on this. Can you tell me if the Mpeg4 HD is as good or better quality than OTA? If it is i'd be willing to wait for OTA.From what I've heard, OTA is better quality than the mpeg4 channels, but the mpeg4 channels still look good.

On page 19 of the manual, it states "You can record up to three programs at once (two satellite and one from an off-air antenna)." If you were in fact doing that, I wonder if the second OTA tuner could be engaged to view a live program.
Wow really? Three programs at once? I always heard you could WATCH three programs, two live and one recorded, but not record three. But I don't have one so I don't have the manual :) But yes, as long as something is being recorded on a tuner, it can be used to watch a live program. It just won't keep your buffer if you switch to another tuner.

From what I've heard, OTA is better quality than the mpeg4 channels, but the mpeg4 channels still look good.


That's the reason in my eyes to forgo this thing until it's worked out.

Now i know this is off topic but would it be in my best interest to just get and H10?

That's the reason in my eyes to forgo this thing until it's worked out.

Now i know this is off topic but would it be in my best interest to just get and H10?That's up to you :) I prefer the Tivo interface, so I got my HR10-250 a couple months ago just prior to the release of the HR20. They just released the 6.3a version for the HR10-250 so it's much faster, has folders, etc. Oh, and the OTA HD looks terrific.

That's up to you :) I prefer the Tivo interface, so I got my HR10-250 a couple months ago just prior to the release of the HR20. They just released the 6.3a version for the HR10-250 so it's much faster, has folders, etc. Oh, and the OTA HD looks terrific.

I have the HR20-700 and a 10-250 with the 6.3a upgrade.

Jacksonville doesn't have the HD local yet (but they are coming "real soon"), so I can't comment on mpeg-4. What I will say is that the 10-250 with the 6.3a upgrade still has the advantage of working OTA HD, and dual buffers.

The 5 LNB dish D* installed as a result of the HR20 purchase has (at least to my eyes) even improved the reception on the 10-250.

I have the HR20-700 and a 10-250 with the 6.3a upgrade.

Jacksonville doesn't have the HD local yet (but they are coming "real soon"), so I can't comment on mpeg-4. What I will say is that the 10-250 with the 6.3a upgrade still has the advantage of working OTA HD, and dual buffers.

The 5 LNB dish D* installed as a result of the HR20 purchase has (at least to my eyes) even improved the reception on the 10-250.



Cool. Don't mean to hijack this thread but i'm reading in a few different spots that the H10 is having problems since the 6.3a upgrade. I've had my Samsung unit for nearly 3 years and it seems to me from what i've been reading that D* has a major problem with alot of there equipment. Although expensive it might be prudent to research another unit out of D*'s influence?

That's up to you :) I prefer the Tivo interface, so I got my HR10-250 a couple months ago just prior to the release of the HR20. They just released the 6.3a version for the HR10-250 so it's much faster, has folders, etc. Oh, and the OTA HD looks terrific.
Does anyone know if they are finished with the HR10-250 upgrade? I got a message on 9/28 to make sure my phone line was plugged in, but I still haven't received it.

Does anyone know if they are finished with the HR10-250 upgrade? I got a message on 9/28 to make sure my phone line was plugged in, but I still haven't received it.

The update might still be coming. Our first HR10-250 was updated nearly a month ago but the second HR10-250 was updated to 6.3 just two days ago.

Does anyone know if they are finished with the HR10-250 upgrade? I got a message on 9/28 to make sure my phone line was plugged in, but I still haven't received it.
Mine just updated last week.

Cool. Don't mean to hijack this thread but i'm reading in a few different spots that the H10 is having problems since the 6.3a upgrade.
Yeah, I've had a couple issues since the 6.3a upgrade. The most significant problem is that it stopped recording an hour long program that was set as a season pass after only 30 minutes. There didn't seem to be any real reason, it didn't stop recording to record something else, just stopped.

I've also had it lock up and stop responding to any commands. No rewind, FF, Tivo button, nothing, but it still kept displaying TV and recording.

Yeah, I've had a couple issues since the 6.3a upgrade. The most significant problem is that it stopped recording an hour long program that was set as a season pass after only 30 minutes. There didn't seem to be any real reason, it didn't stop recording to record something else, just stopped.

I've also had it lock up and stop responding to any commands. No rewind, FF, Tivo button, nothing, but it still kept displaying TV and recording.

Ouch. Well i think i'll still try and locate a 10-250 and wait until they iron out all the issues with the 20-700

"Ouch. Well i think i'll still try and locate a 10-250 and wait until they iron out all the issues with the 20-700."

I sold my 10-250 on ebay (which I got from Directv for free) and got the 20-700 for free. The 20-700 for me is the better piece of equipment and will only get better. I've haven't had the problems other people seem to have with their 20-700s.

Does anyone know if they are finished with the HR10-250 upgrade? I got a message on 9/28 to make sure my phone line was plugged in, but I still haven't received it.I got the message at the beginning of September, but it didn't actually update until last night ...

I got the message at the beginning of September, but it didn't actually update until last night ...
Wouldn't you know it, as soon as I ask about the upgrade, mine did. It upgraded sometime yesterday during the day. I noticed some minor changes in the screens, and checked and it was upgraded. Much, much faster now. I haven't had any problems yet.

Staggered update for the HR20 released last night, 0xe3. Started on West Coast and Hawaii. Should end up on the East Coast by Sunday. Here is the bug fix list.

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=695083

My HR20 seems to have audio drop-outs at the most inopportune times.

Doesn't matter which channel, it seems to happen randomly.

Does anyone else have this issue? Is there a fix? Is this just another "beta" bug?

Thanx to anyone with the knowledge to share.

Yah, in 4 hours of viewing last night with audio dropping and fast forward freezes.

"Ouch. Well i think i'll still try and locate a 10-250 and wait until they iron out all the issues with the 20-700."

I sold my 10-250 on ebay (which I got from Directv for free) and got the 20-700 for free. The 20-700 for me is the better piece of equipment and will only get better. I've haven't had the problems other people seem to have with their 20-700s.

How did you get the HR20 for free?

I have been getting audio popping noises when switching from PCM to Dolby Digital stations for the last couple of weeks on my HR20.

And now-not to change the topic-I have the same damn problem on my HR10-250 after the 6.3 update! :mad:

My AV receiver is a DSP-A1 and there's nothing wrong with it. I have no audio problems when watching digital cable.

D* blows. :)

I have been getting audio popping noises when switching from PCM to Dolby Digital stations for the last couple of weeks on my HR20.

And now-not to change the topic-I have the same damn problem on my HR10-250 after the 6.3 update! :mad:

My AV receiver is a DSP-A1 and there's nothing wrong with it. I have no audio problems when watching digital cable.

D* blows. :)

I have the same problem with my new HR20-700 but it is no where as bad as the HR10-250 I had. It found out it has to do with the receiver digital switching and the D* receiver not working together properly.

I have a Hr10-250 in my HT room hooked up through a McIntosh pre-amp (MX135 bought new in late 2004) and I have no problems with this system.

So I guess I am going to have to sell of my Pioneer Elite receiver that I use in the bedroom system for something else.

How did you get the HR20 for free?

It's a bit of luck-of-the-draw with the CSR. Your best bet is with customer retention 800-824-9081

I think the official upgrade fee from a HR10 is $99

Some people get it just for the tax - $7 or so. Some get it for $19.99 shipping. Some get it totally free.

I got 2 HR20s for $99+tax with $99 credit for first one, second free. So paid a total of about $7. I was offered this on my first call. I would keep calling until you get lucky.

How did you get the HR20 for free?
I did have to pay the S&H charges which was 14.95. I told them I wanted to upgrade the equipment and what they would do for me. They didn't want the Hr10-250 back so I sold it on ebay.

I've had my Hr20 for a few days now. I must say my initial impression is positive. Luckily I haven't had any of the issues i've been reading about in these posts. The main thing for me is adjusting to the new interface. Like a lot of the people here, I've been a Tivo user for many years so I'm use to that interface, but I've found the HR20 has all of the same features my HR10-250 you just have to figure out how it works. You have to show a little paitient while you learn how the interface is set up. The only things I really do miss is the lack of dual buffers and the ability to jump back and forth between the two tuners.

This goddamn thing is driving me crazy! :mad:

It's constantly either:
a) not recording programs

or

b) recording programs and then automatically deleting them immediately afterwards

I think it would pointless to ask D* for a replacement since it's most likely a software issue and the replacement would just do the same thing.

I would get a replacement, or at least get on the waiting list. My first unit, installed on Oct. 5, would constantly lockup and require lengthy resets. A week later I hooked up the replacement that D* shipped, and since last week's update everything has worked fine.

If the OTA activation goes well, I'll be happy with the HR20. The "trick play" functions leave something to be desired, but overall operation is pretty good.

After a few weeks of no problems, I had the first issue with the HR20-700 today.

I was watching "The Village" and I had to take a phone call. It lasted over an hour, but I was able to rewind back a hour just fine. However, the audio was suddenly out of synch. I tried hitting pause, but no response. In fact, none of the buttons except the fast forward and rewind would work.

I had to wind up unplugging it entirely to unfreeze everything.

I had D* come out to install an HR20 w/ the 5 LNB dish and local HD yesterday. It all was working fine until about 5 minutes of watching a local station in HD I began to lose the signal and then bang... it was gone... never to return.

The tech tried rebooting several times, and I've since tried "reformating" (record and down as it boots) for whatever that's worth. It just sits at 0% Complete and then goes to "Aquring Guide Data" and if you go to the menu from there you'll see it's not picking up on any signal. All the sats were in the 90s before the meltdown. My Tivo is working fine... so it's not the dish or connection or anything.

I have another one on the way from D*... but do you think this thing is really hosed? Is there anything I can try in the meantime? What could've caused it to just die like that? Has anyone else had a similar issue?

I just hope a new one doesn't do the same thing... especially given the demand on these things I guess I'm lucky a new one is on the way. The Tech told me February... I said that's unnacceptable and hence he put me in touch w/ D*.

Let me know if there's anything I can try while I wait for the new one...

Sounds like the machine did you a personal favor. Now that's technology!


After a few weeks of no problems, I had the first issue with the HR20-700 today.

I was watching "The Village" and I had to take a phone call. It lasted over an hour, but I was able to rewind back a hour just fine. However, the audio was suddenly out of synch. I tried hitting pause, but no response. In fact, none of the buttons except the fast forward and rewind would work.

I had to wind up unplugging it entirely to unfreeze everything.

I've had my unit for about a month now and it works pretty well. One question I have though is there a way to set it up to record a few minutes after the program ends? I recorded Heroes last night only to find out today that it stopped recording early. So I am not sure which time is off the Machine or the Network, but I ended up missing the last 3-4 minuts of the show. I don't see any options that allow you to record longer then what the show is for unless I record the next show too!

This could be annoying problem, but it was the first time it has happend. Not sure why it did not record the whole show.

I've had my unit for about a month now and it works pretty well. One question I have though is there a way to set it up to record a few minutes after the program ends? I recorded Heroes last night only to find out today that it stopped recording early. So I am not sure which time is off the Machine or the Network, but I ended up missing the last 3-4 minuts of the show. I don't see any options that allow you to record longer then what the show is for unless I record the next show too!

This could be annoying problem, but it was the first time it has happend. Not sure why it did not record the whole show.

You can edit start/stop times in the To Do List. Highlight the show, press Select, then highlight Record and press Select.

You can edit start/stop times in the To Do List. Highlight the show, press Select, then highlight Record and press Select.
I wish they would have mentioned this in the manual. The manual is pretty basic in that it just shows you how to record shows or a series of shows. Thanks for the tip, I'll have to edit that later.

You can also schedule a manual recording.

Press Menu/Help and Settings/Schedular/Manual

The drawback with this method is that, for some stupid reason, you cannot manually enter the local channels (like 2,4,7) directly. For instance, if you are watching channel 504 and want to record something manually on channel 7 you have to cycle all the way back to 7. Dumb.

Does anyone know why sometimes the play indicator when you start fat forwarding turns pink?

Also I mentioned above how my unit takes forever to change channels and no one has confirmed that. How many seconds does it take for your units to make a channel change. Please give set up parameters like native or not.

THX

Does anyone know why sometimes the play indicator when you start fat forwarding turns pink?

Also I mentioned above how my unit takes forever to change channels and no one has confirmed that. How many seconds does it take for your units to make a channel change. Please give set up parameters like native or not.

THX
It's because you're in native mode.

It's because you're in native mode.

You didn't answer the ? How long does it take for you?
Taking it out of native mode only trims off about 1-2 seconds. for me.

You didn't answer the ? How long does it take for you?
Taking it out of native mode only trims off about 1-2 seconds. for me.

5 - 6 seconds if I am in native mode and I switch modes, for example 480i to 1080i, on a channel change.

1 - 3 seconds if I lock it on a specific resolution, like 1080i. It is so fast when set up like this that I don't even notice any delay. With native off I think the 1 - 3 second delay has more to do with tuning to a different LNB than anything else.

New HR20 Owner - BIG PROBLEMS!!!!!!
(VERY LONG)
I am the (not so) proud owner of 2 HR20 D* DVRs. I upgraded an HR10 for $99 and purchased a second from D* for $199.

First the good. The unit seems slightly faster than the TIVO based system. I think the HD picture is about the same when viewed on my Pioneer 42" Plasma. (Soon I will add a 37" Sharp 1080p unit and revaluate)

The menu system seems faster and recording a "season-pass" is instantaneous, just two clicks on the remote. I also love the return of a visible "to be recorded icon" when viewing the TV guide. This feature was last seen on the UltimateTV. Nice.

Now the bad.

Horrible remote! Too many buttons. Nothing back lit. Some buttons are labeled, some are not, Very confusing coming from TIVO experience.

Slow reacting player. No audio confirmation tone of commands. No second tuner visibility.

Software issues. There seems to be big software problems when recording shows. Here is a sampling...

Disappearing recordings on HR20 player #1.

My wife set the player to record "Dancing with the Stars-Results" on Monday. (The show is on Wednesday). In the players "ToDo" list the program is listed with High priority. Wednesday comes and the HR20 dutifully records the show. My wife turns on the TV 20 minutes into the show and discovers nothing has been recorded, even though the HR20 says it is recording the show on the guide. After the show ends, a look a the HR20 playlist clearly shows the "Dancing" show but she is unable to to get the HR20 to replay the show. As a last straw I "reset/reboot" the machine. I then recall the playlist and the "Dancing" show has disappeared from the playlist!
A quick check of the HR20's history fie shows that the program was recorded as is still somewhere in the player, but I can't see it, play it, or erase it to free up disk space!

Recording concatenation on HR20 Player #2

CSI Miami is a 1 hr show, David Letterman is a 1 hr show, but when recorded together it is a 3 and a half hour recording on the HR20!

Monday, I set the HR20 to record CSI Miami at 10:00 pm. I also scheduled a recording of David Letterman at 11:35 pm. Both shows are CBS shows and on the same channel. This time both shows recorded successfully, but when I played back the David Letterman show I discovered that the recorder would allow me to rewind the show past 0:00 minutes! In fact, I was able to rewind the show into the 11-11:30 news program that preceded Letterman. Going further back , I was even able to rewind another hour into CSI! Wow! What an incredible waste of disk space. At first I thought that maybe the player was referencing the CSI show recording when I did the rewind so I deleted the CSI recording from the list. With only the Letterman show on the player, the show was still two and a half hours long (with rewind ). This is a serious software bug.

In addition, both units have had numerous other problems with screen freezes and system lockups that could only be solved by total system reset.

I suggest that one proceed with caution until the bugs are worked out on the HR20.

Your problems seem to be minor in comparison to some that have the new DVR. While many report that they have no or little problems, quite a few people seem to have alot of problems. I think that D* screwed the pooch on this one, releasing it way too early for the folks that have had good DVR experiences in the past. I can only speculate they're worried about competition.

Over at dbstalk there are alot of unhappy customers. I only hope when mine gets here next week I don't have alot of the issues you or they have. At least, I decided to keep my old DVR as a backup to record show that may come up missing or unusable. I think that when D* gets it's final software released and distributed many of the issues will prolly go away. Until then, it's agony for alot of folks.

Based on what I've read, I'd rate this unit as early Beta testing. Not for the feint of heart.

The Dolby Digital set up has been fixed. Mine was on when off and visa versa but now works as stated.

Now if they would only fix the channel changing speed I would be happy. I get 3 seconds in non native fixed resolution and 6+ seconds in native.

Mother in law got this against my advice -I guess it drops out audio from time to time and after checking her recorded Shark and CSI the other night, when I went to play them, I got an all white screen with no audio - what should I tell her? I told you so? Is there anything that can be done or is this typical of the unit so far?

I just told D* to send me a replacement, which will be my 3rd. This piece of crap is still recording and then deleting scheduled programs on its own. Form now on I'll set the program to save until I delete instead of when disc is full. Maybe the unit thinks the disc is full and automatically deletes them.

Got my HR20-700 yesterday. It's been in use for about 24 hours now. I'm happy to report at this point that the operation has been flawless. Everything works as it ought to, except for things that aren't enabled yet. It has recorded and played back everything I've asked it to. MP4 (locals) viewing, recording and playback have worked very well. Knock on wood, I think I might have gotten a good one.

I did the installation myself. I took extra care to make sure the ka birds were tuned in as well as they could be. Interestingly, the "official" D* dish instructions have the installer tune in just the old ku birds. The dish is bigger and heavier than the old 3LNB dish, but is smaller and significantly lighter than the Direcway (Hughesnet) dish.

P.S. I'm using the component and optical outputs for now. Once I'm sure there are no issues I haven't seen yet, I'll swap over to HDMI.

I had my HR20 700 installed last Tuesday and it works fine except changing channels btw differing resolutions. It takes anywhere from 3 to 5 seconds to switch. I have it going through HDMI with optical out being used also. They did not change my dish to the newer one. I still have the triple LNB with a second round for local 480i stations. I live in NW AR so there are no local OTA HD signals. Should I call them out to switch out my dish now or wait, bc I hear they are going to a newer dish come April. Correct me if I am wrong on that.

Any advice welcome.

You might want to turn off Native mode and set the box to output the resolution your TV likes best all the time. If you like the picture quality doing that, it will speed up channel changes. Some areas are already out of the AT9s and are installing the so called Slimline dish. It isn't much smaller but has all the LNBs in an integrated unit. If you don't have local HD stations, you won't need a 5LNB dish until national stations are moved to the Ka band. It will be at least a year before that happens. Things will be hectic with everybody wanting a new dish then though.

If tonight's Bear-Giant game was typical of what we'll see next year when the MPEG4 HD nationals start up, I am really looking forward to 2007. The PQ was fully the equal of OTA. I checked Comcast with a QAM tuner and found it marginally inferior.

I hope the HR20 problems are resolved soon. Anyone know if, after OTA activation, it will allow viewing a 3rd live channel when 2 shows are being recorded. With 2 possibly idle tuners, this shouldn't be too difficult to implement, and would add a lot to the versatility of the unit.

If tonight's Bear-Giant game was typical of what we'll see next year when the MPEG4 HD nationals start up, I am really looking forward to 2007. The PQ was fully the equal of OTA. I checked Comcast with a QAM tuner and found it marginally inferior.

I hope the HR20 problems are resolved soon. Anyone know if, after OTA activation, it will allow viewing a 3rd live channel when 2 shows are being recorded. With 2 possibly idle tuners, this shouldn't be too difficult to implement, and would add a lot to the versatility of the unit.

Rumor has it that you will be able to do that. However, you'll only be able to record 2 tuners at once no matter the combination.

I recorded my beloved Bolts game so I could watch after daughters cheerleading crap.

During the Bungles last drive for a tying score my HR20 decided to end the program and erase whatever it had recorded. So I couldnt see the last 5 plays of that drive. When I went to the channel to try and rewind the game to watch the last 5 plays I got the "you need to purchase this channel" crap that meant it didnt recognize me as a customer I guess.

This is a major problem for me. I have to record the Chargers. If i cant do it than I have no need for this technology. Its still in Beta form to me.

I'm angry. To say the least. It might be time for a replacement HR20. I still think I'll have problems though.

The problems with the HR20 are for the most part software related. You can get 10 replacements but until D* fixes the bugs it won't matter.

How'd I miss the HR20 coming without an HDMI cable? Now I have to run out and get one and my installation is tomorrow! Which cable brand is preferred? Sorry for not searching this on this topic first, but this has thrown me for a loop.

When I got my Sony H200 four years ago, it came with a DVI cable (pre-HDMI days), and I assumed the HR20 came with an HDMI cable. Isn't the whole idea to use the best connection? Shouldn't DTV provide it in-the-box?

How'd I miss the HR20 coming without an HDMI cable? Now I have to run out and get one and my installation is tomorrow! Which cable brand is preferred? Sorry for not searching this on this topic first, but this has thrown me for a loop.

When I got my Sony H200 four years ago, it came with a DVI cable (pre-HDMI days), and I assumed the HR20 came with an HDMI cable. Isn't the whole idea to use the best connection? Shouldn't DTV provide it in-the-box?

There wasn't one in the two boxes I got, but the installer had them anyway. It was a cheaper brand that I ended up replacing anyway but at least they came prepared. I would think that it would depend on the subcontractor however.

There wasn't one in the two boxes I got, but the installer had them anyway. It was a cheaper brand that I ended up replacing anyway but at least they came prepared. I would think that it would depend on the subcontractor however.
Thanks! Your reply prompted me to call to my installer, and after his telling me to go component, I prevailed upon him to include an HDMI-to-DVI cable for me. Thanks for the good tip!

Hi, this is my first post after grazing for a couple of years. I'm sorry that it has to be a negative one, but I'm extremely disappointed with my new HR20-700 that was installed yesterday.

This is a list of the initial problems on the box even after the new SW download.

Will not record - It shows that it is recording with a red line. When I go to the LIST it shows the recording, but there is nothing stored (100% available disk space).

The Fast FWD - RWND - Replay - Pause - Stop buttons don't work at all

One Buffer

Occasional Hard Drive loud clicking noises

Gaudy LEDS on front will not dim

Incredibly long boot times - 40 minutes plus - sometimes never until I unplug it and start over

No OFF AIR ANTENA implementation, D says Dec 1

There is no telling how many more things are strange, because I had to abandon it last night so that we could actually ENJOY watching TV.

The installer is bringing another one tomorrow, but even if it works I don't think I will be very happy with it.

I hooked my HR10-250 back up and the HR20 is in the box. I have a feeling that even if the new one works enough to use, it will only be hooked up occasionally to download new software and test until they get their act together.

I know that software is a big part of the problem, but after reading all the threads it is also obvious that there are some serious hardware QC issues as well.

Direct TV should be ashamed of themselves.

Hi, this is my first post after grazing for a couple of years. I'm sorry that it has to be a negative one
Wow, sorry to hear that keslerfl! In the other thread, I've posted my ongoing HR20 installation saga from over the weekend (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8945437&&#post8945437). But in its first use yesterday, fortunately I have not experienced any of your issues except, of course, no OTA. Timed recording (1 tuner only), remote buttons, HD noises, LED dimming, and quick booting all A-OK. I hope your 2nd one is OK.

Hi, this is my first post after grazing for a couple of years. I'm sorry that it has to be a negative one, but I'm extremely disappointed with my new HR20-700 that was installed yesterday.

This is a list of the initial problems on the box even after the new SW download.

Will not record - It shows that it is recording with a red line. When I go to the LIST it shows the recording, but there is nothing stored (100% available disk space).

The Fast FWD - RWND - Replay - Pause - Stop buttons don't work at all

One Buffer

Occasional Hard Drive loud clicking noises

Gaudy LEDS on front will not dim

Incredibly long boot times - 40 minutes plus - sometimes never until I unplug it and start over

No OFF AIR ANTENA implementation, D says Dec 1

There is no telling how many more things are strange, because I had to abandon it last night so that we could actually ENJOY watching TV.

The installer is bringing another one tomorrow, but even if it works I don't think I will be very happy with it.

I hooked my HR10-250 back up and the HR20 is in the box. I have a feeling that even if the new one works enough to use, it will only be hooked up occasionally to download new software and test until they get their act together.

I know that software is a big part of the problem, but after reading all the threads it is also obvious that there are some serious hardware QC issues as well.

Direct TV should be ashamed of themselves.

Sounds like a bad hard drive.

Bob H.

Direct TV should be ashamed of themselves.

LOL.

I have two HR20s and have none of these problems. Sounds like user errors, bad install techiques, or a bad box. Most likely a comination of all three. Swap the box or ask the installer to come back out? Or both?

I just noticed they've added a 4th fast forward speed. Nice.

It's almost too fast for skipping commercials. Nice for moving rapidly through a program however.

Now that the 30sec slip is so much faster, I use that for commercial skip instead of 3xFF. It requires more presses but I won't go way too far if I lose concentration.

Last weeks upgrade added the 4x speed to RWD/FWD and speeded up the 30 second slip (which also seems much smoother). But it also broke my ability to see content in rewind mode. It also broke the "to do list" function on my player (only one program was displayed out of 67).


Last nights upgrade fixed the "to do list" and a rewind problem I was having since last weeks software upgrade. So far it is looking good.

Original Version: 0xbe
Past Upgrade: 0xfa (today 3:45am)

Are you guys running the same version?

Last weeks upgrade added the 4x speed to RWD/FWD and speeded up the 30 second slip (which also seems much smoother). But it also broke my ability to see content in rewind mode. It also broke the "to do list" function on my player (only one program was displayed out of 67).


Last nights upgrade fixed the "to do list" and a rewind problem I was having since last weeks software upgrade. So far it is looking good.

Original Version: 0xbe
Past Upgrade: 0xfa (today 3:45am)

Are you guys running the same version?

I noticed the 4X speed also. However... mine doesn't seem to "skip-back" to where it thinks you meant to hit the play button like my DirecTivo does. Is it supposed to? Am I missing something w/ this?

If anything... it seems to jump a few frames forward of where I hit the play button.

I recorded my beloved Bolts game so I could watch after daughters cheerleading crap.

During the Bungles last drive for a tying score my HR20 decided to end the program and erase whatever it had recorded. So I couldnt see the last 5 plays of that drive. When I went to the channel to try and rewind the game to watch the last 5 plays I got the "you need to purchase this channel" crap that meant it didnt recognize me as a customer I guess.

This is a major problem for me. I have to record the Chargers. If i cant do it than I have no need for this technology. Its still in Beta form to me.

I'm angry. To say the least. It might be time for a replacement HR20. I still think I'll have problems though.

I believe the Bengals / Chargers game went over (past 4pm). That explains why it stopped recording. However... it doesn't explain why it spontaneously deleted what it had recorded.

Whenever recording sports... be sure to set it to continue 30 minutes (or more if you prefer) longer.

I too have had the "You need to purchase this channel" issue from time to time. It fixes itself... but I think it's an issue w/ the 5 LNB dish and the DVR as it seems it has trouble authorizing from time to time.

If tonight's Bear-Giant game was typical of what we'll see next year when the MPEG4 HD nationals start up, I am really looking forward to 2007. The PQ was fully the equal of OTA. I checked Comcast with a QAM tuner and found it marginally inferior.

I hope the HR20 problems are resolved soon. Anyone know if, after OTA activation, it will allow viewing a 3rd live channel when 2 shows are being recorded. With 2 possibly idle tuners, this shouldn't be too difficult to implement, and would add a lot to the versatility of the unit.

It varies... trust me... it varies. A couple weeks ago I watched the Bengals game on CBS HD, and folllowed that up w/ the Steelers game on FOX HD. The FOX feed blew away the CBS feed.

There is an issue w/ subtle motion blur inherent to the level of compression D* is using for their HD locals. I'm not sure if it's MPEG4 in general, or the level at which they're compressing the signal using MPEG4.

When OTA on the HR20 gets enabled, I'm going to buy the antenna I previously returned (in hopes of equal HD local picture quality from D*) and use it for my HD locals as they'll be recorded in MPEG2 (less efficient, but better quality) and while watching live TV the feed will be uncompressed and perfect.

All that said... does anyone who's used OTA w/ the HR10-250 (or any others) know if D* will let you tune in / record channels outside your region that you can pick up w/ a good OTA antenna? I live in Cincinnati, but I can pick up Dayton channels w/ a good OTA antenna. Question is... can they be integrated into the channel guide in such a fashion that I can record them?

I noticed the 4X speed also. However... mine doesn't seem to "skip-back" to where it thinks you meant to hit the play button like my DirecTivo does. Is it supposed to? Am I missing something w/ this?

If anything... it seems to jump a few frames forward of where I hit the play button.

I noticed that behavior on mine as well. I not sure if this new software will act the same as I have not watched any TV today. I will check tonight and see if there is any improvement.

I have a HR10-250 in my HT room and can record whatever I want with my OTA antenna. I also have the HR20-700 for my bedroom HT system and so far most all the local HD stations look good. The football games vary but it seems to be more of the production and engineering/producer than the OTA vs MPeg4.

Mike

It varies... trust me... it varies. A couple weeks ago I watched the Bengals game on CBS HD, and folllowed that up w/ the Steelers game on FOX HD. The FOX feed blew away the CBS feed.

There is an issue w/ subtle motion blur inherent to the level of compression D* is using for their HD locals. I'm not sure if it's MPEG4 in general, or the level at which they're compressing the signal using MPEG4.

When OTA on the HR20 gets enabled, I'm going to buy the antenna I previously returned (in hopes of equal HD local picture quality from D*) and use it for my HD locals as they'll be recorded in MPEG2 (less efficient, but better quality) and while watching live TV the feed will be uncompressed and perfect.

All that said... does anyone who's used OTA w/ the HR10-250 (or any others) know if D* will let you tune in / record channels outside your region that you can pick up w/ a good OTA antenna? I live in Cincinnati, but I can pick up Dayton channels w/ a good OTA antenna. Question is... can they be integrated into the channel guide in such a fashion that I can record them?

Hit the 6sec replay button instead of the play button. I'm a geezer so I hit it three times as soon as I see the program is back.

LOL.

I have two HR20s and have none of these problems. Sounds like user errors, bad install techiques, or a bad box. Most likely a comination of all three. Swap the box or ask the installer to come back out? Or both?


The installer brought a second box yesterday and it is working fine except for the one buffer and the OTA support. It took a some hard persuasion to get another one from the installer, rather than wait for one to be shipped out to me. In fact there is another box coming in Friday by FED EX, sent after a rather heated discussion with D. I will ship it back to them if this one doesn't have any problems within the next several days.

The installer brought a second box yesterday and it is working fine except for the one buffer and the OTA support.

Then there's nothing wrong with it.

[QUOTE=randall]Wow, sorry to hear that keslerfl! In the other thread, I've posted my ongoing HR20 installation saga from over the weekend.

Thanks for the kind words. The new one is just fine. I'm afraid that I rushed to judgement a bit. I'm real excited about the potential of the HR20 now that I have one that works. :)

Sorry to hear about your installation woes. My installation was a breeze because of the existing cables for the HR10. I hope the slimline is as good with precipitaion fade as the big Channel Master was. We get a lot of rain in the summer here in S Florida. I probalbly won't know for many months.

The installer brought a second box yesterday and it is working fine except for the one buffer and the OTA support. It took a some hard persuasion to get another one from the installer, rather than wait for one to be shipped out to me. In fact there is another box coming in Friday by FED EX, sent after a rather heated discussion with D. I will ship it back to them if this one doesn't have any problems within the next several days.

What single buffer and OTA problems are you referring to? :confused:

What single buffer and OTA problems are you referring to? :confused:

As of now Over The Air reception has not been enabled. I was told that this will be fixed with a software upgrade Dec. 1.

From what I understand only one of the 2 SAT tuners are buffered and selectable/controlable. I have read here that this will be improved with future software upgrades as well. For me this hasn't been a big deal. Come Sunday afternoon though... :)

On the other hand I love the screen saver that kicks in when you are paused very long. This takes away some anxiety with a plasma screen. And it is considerably faster than my HR10-250.

As of now Over The Air reception has not been enabled. I was told that this will be fixed with a software upgrade Dec. 1.

From what I understand only one of the 2 SAT tuners are buffered and selectable/controlable. I have read here that this will be improved with future software upgrades as well. For me this hasn't been a big deal. Come Sunday afternoon though... :)

Just to clear up the misinformation...

Dual buffers and OTA are not current features of the HR20 and therefore not broken and, by definition, cannot be "fixed". Dual buffers may never be added as a feature in the future.

[

All that said... does anyone who's used OTA w/ the HR10-250 (or any others) know if D* will let you tune in / record channels outside your region that you can pick up w/ a good OTA antenna? I live in Cincinnati, but I can pick up Dayton channels w/ a good OTA antenna. Question is... can they be integrated into the channel guide in such a fashion that I can record them?[/QUOTE]

I have the HR10-250 and can receive and record from 3 different OTA areas in S. PA. Harrisburg-York-Lancaster PA and Baltimore MD and Washington, DC. I can get almost all of their OTA stations. The only problem that I have is that I have set up the HR10-250 for the areas of Harrisburg (My official area) and Baltimore, the secondary area, but the guide will only fill in those 2 areas. The Washington stations say 'regular schedule'. Does anyone know how to get these stations to be filled in on the guide? Most of the time I know that they are the same as Baltimore, but it would be nice if they were filled in on the guide.

I have used the HR20-700 for a couple of months now and love it when it works correctly. I was receiving OTA HD local programing through the antenna plug on the back of the unit until about a week ago and now get a message "searching for signal". Have not been able to get reception back.

Only other problem is that we loose audio 25 % of the time when we change channels.

Thanks for any feedback you can offer that might help resolve these problems.

If anyone that posts/lurks this thread goes over to dbstalk then this isn't for you. I did notice that my fairly trouble free HR20-700 started to have some recording issues. After the EF update, I started to get some recording anomlies. I reformatted it and the problems went away. It's been stable with FA. I really can't say that reformatting it fixed the problem, but if you're having problems and haven't reformatted it, try it. It might work for you.

I was receiving OTA HD local programing through the antenna plug on the back of the unit until about a week ago

Cna you explain how this was possible since D* hasn't enabled OTA yet? You have a hacked HR20 or something?

No, I can not explain it. I have a very small antenna plugged into the back of the HR20-700 and I received the OTA broadcasts in Austin, TX for about 45 days until last week. I still have some of the OTA HD recordings stored on the DVR and the OTA HD channels still show up on the guide. The OTA was great will it lasted.

How do I format the unit?

No, I can not explain it. I have a very small antenna plugged into the back of the HR20-700 and I received the OTA broadcasts in Austin, TX for about 45 days until last week. I still have some of the OTA HD recordings stored on the DVR and the OTA HD channels still show up on the guide. The OTA was great will it lasted.

How do I format the unit?


Menu->Setup->Reset->Reset Everything

Beware, you'll lose everything including dish setup, recordings and series links.

I was receiving OTA HD local programing through the antenna plug on the back of the unit until about a week ago and now get a message "searching for signal". Have not been able to get reception back.

LOL

Not a chance this is true. For any newbies out there you CANNOT receive OTA on an HR20 no matter how "small" your antenna is. OTA setup is not even an option in the setup screens. We are ALL another 1 or 2 firmware updates away from this feature.

billt1111, please help with me understand what is happening with my DVR instead of making fun of me on this forum. Do the local DFW HD channels show up on your guide? All of the Austin HD channels are listed on my HR20 guide and I was able to view and record then until last week. I will be happy to email you a photo of my guide.

billt1111, please help with me understand what is happening with my DVR instead of making fun of me on this forum. Do the local DFW HD channels show up on your guide? All of the Austin HD channels are listed on my HR20 guide and I was able to view and record then until last week. I will be happy to email you a photo of my guide.

Why not post a photo here?

Hope the photo goes through. It is of the guide showing the Austin, TX local HD stations. It shows that the Notre Dame @ USC game will be in HD on local station 24 KVUE.

Thanks for any help you can give me.

Hope the photo goes through. It is of the guide showing the Austin, TX local HD stations. It shows that the Notre Dame @ USC game will be in HD on local station 24 KVUE.



I don't know anything about how the Austin area program grid should look. Maybe you're getting locals off the satellite with a 5 LNB dish. But here's an easier way to check for OTA:

Press Menu/Help and Settings/Setup/Sat & Ant

The Antenna Setup option should be greyed out. That's the way it is for every HR20 owner right now. If it's not, then you may have the ONLY unit with this option enabled. If you're asking how to get OTA back up and running then no one can help you since none of us have that option yet.

I suspect you're getting locals over the satellite

billt1111, please help with me understand what is happening with my DVR instead of making fun of me on this forum. Do the local DFW HD channels show up on your guide? All of the Austin HD channels are listed on my HR20 guide and I was able to view and record then until last week. I will be happy to email you a photo of my guide.

Making fun? Not at all. I would do the same thing if you said the sky was falling. I just know there is no chance that OTA is available on your HR20 and not the other 499,999 of them that have been activated so far. That part of the setup menu is not available on any HR20. Yet.

By the way, here are 50,000 posts regarding the HR20. It is the definitive source for up-to-the-minute information about this box. You are the only one who is actively posting that they have OTA.

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

And here is the official "OTA Status" thread to keep people from asking "When is OTA going to be activated?" 100 times a day.

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=69780

Hope the photo goes through. It is of the guide showing the Austin, TX local HD stations. It shows that the Notre Dame @ USC game will be in HD on local station 24 KVUE.

Thanks for any help you can give me.That's though the dish, not OTA. It's a Ka band MPEG4 station. OTA stations will always have a dash and a number following the major channel number such as 24-1.

And here is the official "OTA Status" thread to keep people from asking "When is OTA going to be activated?" 100 times a day.

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=69780

Is there a dual-buffer status thread somewhere, or is that a dead issue? (that's still the deal breaker for me....)

Is there a dual-buffer status thread somewhere, or is that a dead issue? (that's still the deal breaker for me....)

I don't know if it is completely dead or just critically dormant. I can say that it is so far fetched that there is not even a "Don't bother to ask" thread dedicated to the feature.

My $0.02 is that I have a TIVO and an HR20. I don't miss the dual buffer feature on the HR20, even though I use it heavily on the TIVO unit. I do end up recording a lot more events on the HR20 however, and then toggling back and forth between a "live" event and one that is currently being recorded. This is the psuedo dual buffer feature of the HR20. I do it so much that it seems normal now. For the price of $15 I will take my HR20 over the $1000 HR10-250 any day.

I'm glad I never got married to the idea of dual buffers on my TIVO. I guess I have too much of a single track mind. My HR20 has bin berry berry gud to me (knocks on wood).

Found this as a work around for dual buffering. Not exactly sure what this will do as I don't own a HR20 yet. Will this accomplish the same action as dual buffering?

WATCH TWO SHOWS AT ONCE - The trick is to temporarily record both…
While in the first show, Click the ® RECORD button
Press ll PAUSE before you leave a show so it will not play without you.
Press GUIDE twice to go to the second program
Click the ® RECORD button to begin recording the second show
Press LIST and then press SELECT to select the other show
Press ll PAUSE before you leave a show so it will not play without you.
Press LIST and then press SELECT to select the other show
Now that your shows are set up, Press ll PAUSE and then PREV to go back and forth between the programs

Compliments of: Craig from DBStalk.com

Well, playback of MPEG4 recorded material continues to be sluggish when fast forwarding. And it's even worse when rewinding because the picture just freezes.

But I experienced something else for the first time when I recorded a football game on ESPN Saturday night. When I started to play the game from the list it fast forwarded about 40 minutes into the program-on its own. I was not touching any other buttons on the remote. It only took a few seconds to fast forward to that point so I couldn't have done that on my own if I tried.

Ok, Let me ask a couple of stupid questions. Got the new slimline dish put in along with the HR20-700. Still getting used to the different interface from TIVO, but so far everthing is looking great. I had it record a bunch of stuff over the last four days and everything looks fantastic. OK, so now the supid questions. 1) The remote is set up so that it turns off both the TV and DVR--am I right in assuming that the DVR will not record something that's scheduled if turned off (i.e. it won't sleep like an old VCR and then turn on to record). I've always just left my DTV receivers on 24/7 except with this one those blue lights are really annoying in a dark room which leads me to 2) Anyway do dim those really bright blue lights?

Thanks,

Dave

Ok, Let me ask a couple of stupid questions. Got the new slimline dish put in along with the HR20-700. Still getting used to the different interface from TIVO, but so far everthing is looking great. I had it record a bunch of stuff over the last four days and everything looks fantastic. OK, so now the supid questions. 1) The remote is set up so that it turns off both the TV and DVR--am I right in assuming that the DVR will not record something that's scheduled if turned off (i.e. it won't sleep like an old VCR and then turn on to record). I've always just left my DTV receivers on 24/7 except with this one those blue lights are really annoying in a dark room which leads me to 2) Anyway do dim those really bright blue lights?

Thanks,

Dave

#1 You are incorrect in assuming. It will record while off. It's not really off, it's in standby.

#2 Page 4 of the Users Manual sez: On the front panel "Press and hold the LEFT and RIGHT arrows to dim and turn off the lights. (Repeat to brighten.)"

#1 You are incorrect in assuming. It will record while off. It's not really off, it's in standby.

#2 Page 4 of the Users Manual sez: On the front panel "Press and hold the LEFT and RIGHT arrows to dim and turn off the lights. (Repeat to brighten.)"

Thanks. That's great news.

My lights don't dim by holding the left and right arrows. Anyone else have these non-responsive lights?

Thanks. That's great news.

In fact, it is better to put it into Standby when you are finished watching. That allows it to do background tasks and download any new updates faster.

My lights don't dim by holding the left and right arrows. Anyone else have these non-responsive lights?Actually, you press the buttons (on the front of the receiver, not on the remote) rather than hold them. They will dim the center circular diplay in 3 stages and then turn it off. Unfortunately, the 2 small blue lights and the record light are not affected.

My lights don't dim by holding the left and right arrows. Anyone else have these non-responsive lights?The dimming is almost unnoticeable for something like four presses until they go out entirely. You are doing the left and right arrow buttons on the box, not the remote, I hope.

Yes, I was doing the remote buttons. Duh! Will try the front panel tonight. Thanks.

Yes, I was doing the remote buttons. Duh! Will try the front panel tonight. Thanks.

Don't feel bad. 95% of all problems reported here are because of user mistakes. It is understandable and we all do them. However many of us don't report them as fact here. The sad part is that most of the user-inflicted errors and problems are never resolved. They just blame D* or their box. Since everyone else seems to be complaining they think their complaint MUST be valid.

OTA is enabled for the west coast as of today.

OTA is enabled for the west coast as of today.

Here is a discussion link:

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=72036

i think its for everyone

i think its for everyone

It will be eventually. Right now it is a phased release. I think that they want to see what issues happen this week with the west coast before going national.

I'm having the HR20 installed next week. I was under the impression that my local HD channels were provided via satellite not over the air antennas.

Which is it?

You will receive locals from Dtv and also if you have an antenna, you can use your own antenna.

I'm having the HR20 installed next week. I was under the impression that my local HD channels were provided via satellite not over the air antennas.

Which is it?

Depends on which part of the country you are living in. Go to the DirecTV website, select Programming, then Local Channels. Plug in your zip code. It will then tell you whether or not HD locals are available in your area.

Glad to see you guys are on top of the OTA activation in select areas. It's not a priority for me, but I know for those with a healthy array of ATSC stations, it's a priority.

I'm really enjoying the HR20 to this point. I'm not in a MPEG-4 area so I don't see issues folks in those areas might, so I can't comment on those. But, I personally like using the HR20 to compliment the HR10.

I was wondering if there was some kind of upgrade--mine was acting very strange tonight. Once I started fast forwarding through a movie, I couldn't stop it w/o going back to the To Do list and re-selecting what I was watching. Likewise, if I hit menu, I couldn't scroll up or down any of the menu items that popped up--I could only get the menu button to come up and go away again (couldn't access any of the settings).

Hi...
Just a couple quick questions about this unit I just received as a replacement for my HR10-250. I know I need the bigger dish to receive HD Locals from Directv and I know that they are in the process of upgrading these to allow ATSC HD locals but:

Will this unit work with the older triple LNB dish?

Will I still get my HD channels that I do subscribe to (HBO/HDnet etc)?

Will my unit be able to get upgraded if I do not have a phone line hooked up (no home phone, only cell)?

What are these B Band Converter's used for that were included in the box? Are these used with the older triple LNB dishes or the newer ones?

Is there anything other than MPEG4 Local HD channels that I am not getting from using the HR20 with the older dish?

Thanks to anyone that can help answer these newbie questions!

Hi...
Just a couple quick questions about this unit I just received as a replacement for my HR10-250. I know I need the bigger dish to receive HD Locals from Directv and I know that they are in the process of upgrading these to allow ATSC HD locals but:

Will this unit work with the older triple LNB dish?

Will I still get my HD channels that I do subscribe to (HBO/HDnet etc)?

Will my unit be able to get upgraded if I do not have a phone line hooked up (no home phone, only cell)?

What are these B Band Converter's used for that were included in the box? Are these used with the older triple LNB dishes or the newer ones?

Is there anything other than MPEG4 Local HD channels that I am not getting from using the HR20 with the older dish?

Thanks to anyone that can help answer these newbie questions!

yes
yes
only needed for locals
no
yw

go over to dbstalk.com for all things HR20

I don't think you answered all the questions.... maybe you can try again or someone else... I am talking about the upgrade on the unit to allow OTA HD locals to be recorded. Do I need a phone line hooked up for the unit to upgrade?

Hi...
Just a couple quick questions about this unit I just received as a replacement for my HR10-250. I know I need the bigger dish to receive HD Locals from Directv and I know that they are in the process of upgrading these to allow ATSC HD locals but:

Will this unit work with the older triple LNB dish?

Will I still get my HD channels that I do subscribe to (HBO/HDnet etc)?

Will my unit be able to get upgraded if I do not have a phone line hooked up (no home phone, only cell)?

What are these B Band Converter's used for that were included in the box? Are these used with the older triple LNB dishes or the newer ones?

Is there anything other than MPEG4 Local HD channels that I am not getting from using the HR20 with the older dish?

Thanks to anyone that can help answer these newbie questions!

OK yur right

you can use the older dish

you will still get the HD subscribed channels

no phone needed

b-band converters only needed for locals.....for now

without the new dish you'll only lose the HD locals.....for now

I have two HR20's. Both of them Act very strange on the 2nd Tuner. The signal jumps up and down on the 101 Sat in the upper transponders. Channels on those transponders are pixelated with audio dropouts. Its only the 2nd tuner and both HR20's do it. My HR10-250 HDTIVO does not do it, nor my SD TIVO or my R15. I can move the HR20 to any any connection on the Multiswitch and they still do it so I know its not wiring, and my other receivers are fine.

I have not received the 5 LNB dish yet (Still have 3 LNB). Could it be the dish or my 4x8 Multiswitch? If so why is it not affecting all the receivers? I have tried both with the little inline boxes that the HR20 uses on and off and it makes no difference. D* sent me a replacement for one of my HR20s when I called Tech support and it does the same thing! I have had D* for 11 years and am very tech savy and truly understand most of this stuff but this has one me stumped?

Tech is coming on Thursday to install 5 LNB dish and new Multiswitch but from my experience I usually know more than they do. Anyone elese seen this?

Thanks for your help!

I've had the same problem with 2 brand new HR20's so far. The 3rd one is on it's way and will be arriving Wed or Thurs. I am using the old 3LNB dish and not planning on switching to the bigger dish yet but let me know if that solves your problem. I didn't realize if it was only happening on 1 tuner...but since it was happening, I called and complained. Phone tech support sucks. After the first one, they said a tech had to come out to check it which they did and verified it was the receiver. When I got the 2nd one they made me stay on the phone while we tried all the same stuff like reboots, etc. and of course nothing worked. Of course they sounded all surprised that the same thing could be happening on 2 different brand new units. Also like you, I have no problem with my other HDTivos and have switched the cables and know it's not a cable or dish issue. It is obviously the receivers. I am not a happy camper with these new HR20's yet but I guess I will keep trying to get a good one since that's all they are replacing the bad HDTivos with nowadays!

I've had the same problem with 2 brand new HR20's so far. The 3rd one is on it's way and will be arriving Wed or Thurs. I am using the old 3LNB dish and not planning on switching to the bigger dish yet but let me know if that solves your problem. I didn't realize if it was only happening on 1 tuner...but since it was happening, I called and complained.

Interesting, so I am not the only one to have seen this. I have had 3 that all do it so it may me think it was not the receiver but some other quirk in my setup. I was started to think it was my Multiswitch in the switch in the LNB not liking something new in the HR20. If its the receivers I think D* has a big problem since I have received three HR20 all with this issue.

If you still have yours hooked up go into the Sat Setup menu and view the signal strength. Go the old style meters and you will see that SAT2 just bounces up and and down continuously, it can not seem to hold a good signal. If you look at the signal grid you will notice that particularly on the upper transponders on SAT2 that it is real inconsistent. Let me know when you get your replacement if the problems goes away...it didn't for me! Good Luck!

Ok kind of dumb question, but here it goes. My wife and I were watching CSI the other night and about half way through I decided to record it since we were falling asleep. The next day we went back to watch it and it had recorded the whole show. I figured it would just play from where I hit the record button. After seeing this I'm assuming that this unit is setup to record what is on at the moment in the background and if you don't record it it overwrites later? Is this an option you can change? the directions for this DVR are pretty thin that I got for any extra settings on it.