I switched to Dish Network this past week, and I really like the new ViP722 DVR! I am a former DirecTV/Tivo owner and I am very impressed with the new Dish DVR. Not only is it very fast, but it also has an enabled USB port that supports external hard drives up to 750GB. Unlimited HD storage! Can't beat it! I believe this is currently the best HD DVR on the market.


:D

Is this the 500 GB one that comes free for new customers? I just signed up for Dish Network as well (formerly Cox cable). Do you have more than one HDTV hooked up to it? If so, can you take a look at this thread and possibly help me out?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=911343

Is this the 500 GB one that comes free for new customers? I just signed up for Dish Network as well (formerly Cox cable). Do you have more than one HDTV hooked up to it? If so, can you take a look at this thread and possibly help me out?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=911343

I would suggest you start here:
http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=94818

The Vip722 is great!

Oh really.
Well, last I checked it had no firewire, and your "unlimited" USB drive storage is tied to your receiver, so when that goes tits up, you're stuck with all the encrypted useless data. I hope you enjoy that.

Oh really.
Well, last I checked it had no firewire, and your "unlimited" USB drive storage is tied to your receiver, so when that goes tits up, you're stuck with all the encrypted useless data. I hope you enjoy that.

Actually, it is tied to one's account, so the recordings on the USB storage can be moved to a new receiver in the case of a failed DVR.

Ted

OK, correction.
When DirecTV goes tits up or you cancel your account, there goes all your archived recordings. Not much difference.

OK, correction.
When DirecTV goes tits up or you cancel your account, there goes all your archived recordings. Not much difference.

Out of curiosity, what sort of setup to you have in Japan? I would assume that Japan is ahead of the US in the area of HD as they are with most other technologies. I doubt either D* or E* will go "tits up" as you put it any time soon. I would worry more about the constant bleeding the cablecos are experiencing at the hands of D*, E*, AT&T, Verizon, and to a lesser extent local utility companies. None of them have the long-term bandwidth limitations that the cablecos do which means less content compared to the competition.

Ted

I was shocked the other day to find that there are something like *100* HD satellite channels over U.S.
There are less than a dozen over Japan, 6 or 7 free, couple subscription. That's it. And about 40 or so of SD, mostly subscription. (free ones are QVC/homeshopping/etc).

I've had a good experience with my VIP722 over the last 5weeks. The only negative I've seen so far is that currently viewed HD programming will only store for one hour (as opposed to 2hrs with SD programming), so you'd better elect to record it within 60 minutes of viewing or it will be lost. Did that make sense?

I've had a good experience with my VIP722 over the last 5weeks. The only negative I've seen so far is that currently viewed HD programming will only store for one hour (as opposed to 2hrs with SD programming), so you'd better elect to record it within 60 minutes of viewing or it will be lost. Did that make sense?

Your comments made sense. However, 1 hour of buffer is about as good as it gets SD or HD. I did not even realize that SD was 2 hours on this unit.

Ted

There are at least 50 things you can't do with a Dish DVR (or DTV for that matter) that you can with a stand alone Tivo subscription. But if your only gauge is size of a HD (which you can put on Tivo btw) and speed, then go ahead and claim victory. Heh.

There are at least 50 things you can't do with a Dish DVR (or DTV for that matter) that you can with a stand alone Tivo subscription. But if your only gauge is size of a HD (which you can put on Tivo btw) and speed, then go ahead and claim victory. Heh.

I would like to see that list. I would guess that number is more like 10-15.

Ted

There are at least 50 things you can't do with a Dish DVR (or DTV for that matter) that you can with a stand alone Tivo subscription. But if your only gauge is size of a HD (which you can put on Tivo btw) and speed, then go ahead and claim victory. Heh.

Please list them! I'm curious th know what they are. Let me also point out a few things the Dish 722 DVR can do that TIVO cannot do:
1. run two TVs at same time
2. instant 30 second commercial skip button
3. record three shows at the same time
4. filter programing guide to display only channels you subscribe to, or only
display all HD channels, etc.
5. Picture In Picture, Side By Side
6. Multiple External USB HD support (up to 750 GB each)
7. Broadband Dial out support (Enabled ethernet jack) - TIVO may do this as
well, not sure.


:)

There are at least 50 things you can't do with a Dish DVR (or DTV for that matter) that you can with a stand alone Tivo subscription. But if your only gauge is size of a HD (which you can put on Tivo btw) and speed, then go ahead and claim victory. Heh.

Er...so, no list of TiVO advantages? Look, TiVO is a great product, but without partnering with at least one national content provider, like they did with D* for a while before RM dumped them, TiVO as a company is not going to be a great success because there is no consistent way to show off their advantages. Users will have a variety of experiences based on whether their cable service or OTA reception is any good.

Ted

Er...so, no list of TiVO advantages? Look, TiVO is a great product, but without partnering with at least one national content provider, like they did with D* for a while before RM dumped them, TiVO as a company is not going to be a great success because there is no consistent way to show off their advantages. Users will have a variety of experiences based on whether their cable service or OTA reception is any good.

Ted

I would offer that TIVO still has the best DVR user interface on the market. In addition Tivo also probably offers the best DVR seach capabilities on the market. But thats about all I can think of. TIVO is still one of the best DVR's out there, but Dish is quickly closing the gap.

I would offer that TIVO still has the best DVR user interface on the market. In addition Tivo also probably offers the best DVR seach capabilities on the market. But thats about all I can think of. TIVO is still one of the best DVR's out there, but Dish is quickly closing the gap.

Fortunately for TiVO, TWC is not.

Ted

7. Broadband Dial out support (Enabled ethernet jack) - TIVO may do this as
well, not sure.
does this already work out-of-the-box on your 722? is this available as an upgrade to existing 622's?

does this already work out-of-the-box on your 722? is this available as an upgrade to existing 622's?

Yes, it should as of 4.41. There is a fix coming in 4.44 for some bugs that people have with this feature.

Ted

I would offer that TIVO still has the best DVR user interface on the market. In addition Tivo also probably offers the best DVR seach capabilities on the market. But thats about all I can think of. TIVO is still one of the best DVR's out there, but Dish is quickly closing the gap.

Really? Tivo's fall software update just came out with boolean wishlist search.

Advanced WishLists!

- Multiple Keywords and/or Title Keywords
- Multiple Actors and Directors
- Any combination of Title Keywords, Keywords, Actors, Directors, and Category in a single WishList
- Negated, Optional, or Mandatory terms
- User-defined name for a WishList

For example, you could define a WishList for movies with Sally Fields but without Burt Reynolds.

A dual tuner Tivo would work on two TVs, and you can go through the interface on guided setup to choose which channels you do and don't get or want to, it's been like that since the Series 2 models.

Really? Tivo's fall software update just came out with boolean wishlist search.

Advanced WishLists!

- Multiple Keywords and/or Title Keywords
- Multiple Actors and Directors
- Any combination of Title Keywords, Keywords, Actors, Directors, and Category in a single WishList
- Negated, Optional, or Mandatory terms
- User-defined name for a WishList

For example, you could define a WishList for movies with Sally Fields but without Burt Reynolds.

Impressive!

A dual tuner Tivo would work on two TVs, and you can go through the interface on guided setup to choose which channels you do and don't get or want to, it's been like that since the Series 2 models.

But can a single Tivo show 2 different recording or live broadcasts to separate TVs? This can be a useful feature, depending on one's setup, and it is in the recent DISH DVRs. One only needs 1 box to provide content to 2 TVs.

Ted

But can a single Tivo show 2 different recording or live broadcasts to separate TVs? This can be a useful feature, depending on one's setup, and it is in the recent DISH DVRs. One only needs 1 box to provide content to 2 TVs.

Ted

Tivo doesn't do this. The closest they come to doing this is with 2 Tivo's doing MRV (multi-room viewing). One Tivo can download and start watch shows from another Tivo on the same network, regardless of if anyone is watch what on the other Tivo. One upside of MRV is Tivo's wireless dongle works well so this can be a pretty clean wireless multi-room viewing solution. I don't think Dish's DVR does wireless unless you use coax/composite and a video sender and risk interference with WLAN or phones. When Tivo turns on the MRV for Tivo S3 and Tivo HD in Nov, HD shows can also be MRV'd, which is something that Dish DVR doesn't do. DishDVR's dual mode on a single box still can't overcome the physical limitation of the 3 tuners that 1 box has, so it doesn't have OTA for the second TV. So they each have their advantages. Below is what I found on how Dish 622 DVR implements this:

Unlike any other non-Dish DVR we know of, the ViP622 has what Dish calls a dual mode to feed two televisions. ... the TV2 option allows a viewer on the secondary television to watch any of the recorded shows on the ViP622's hard disk (HD programs are downconverted to SD for display on TV2). In dual mode, the ViP622's three tuners are split among the two TVs: TV1 gets the OTA and one satellite tuner, while TV2 gets the second satellite tuner. In other words, you can't watch live OTA programs on TV2.

I've had Tivo. I currently have the 622 (which according to the guys on DBStalk shares the same software platform with the 722).

Two TV output is neat. But you need to keep in mind that it's HD on the primary and SD on the secondary. Even more irritating, the only two options for TV2 when watching HD recorded content is 4:3 crop or Letterbox. There's no anamorphic output on TV2, so if the second TV is widescreen you can only see things in the right aspect ratio in cropped 4:3.

Given that, I'd rather have multiple HD DVRs with a network option. It's always irritated me that Dish has Ethernet on several DVRs, but no networking ability.

The other downside to Dish is there's a limit on timers and events. Up until a late this year the limit was about 90 something timers. As more and more networks do the half season scheduling (meaning I'm recording more shows than I was before) the more annoying the limit was. Don't know what the new limit is, but I'm sure I'll hit it eventually. :)

The plus side is Dish does a very good job with conflict management. It will determine things that are on again in the week and automatically resolve that. It also has a nice visual interface for you to manually resolve the ones that it can't.

At any rate, I think Tivo and Dish spank all the other Cable and Sat DVRs out there. But I just can't say that the Dish is the clear winner. Because it's not. But Tivo isn't light years ahead of Dish like they used to be either.

I've had Tivo. I currently have the 622 (which according to the guys on DBStalk shares the same software platform with the 722).

Two TV output is neat. But you need to keep in mind that it's HD on the primary and SD on the secondary. Even more irritating, the only two options for TV2 when watching HD recorded content is 4:3 crop or Letterbox. There's no anamorphic output on TV2, so if the second TV is widescreen you can only see things in the right aspect ratio in cropped 4:3.

Given that, I'd rather have multiple HD DVRs with a network option. It's always irritated me that Dish has Ethernet on several DVRs, but no networking ability.

The other downside to Dish is there's a limit on timers and events. Up until a late this year the limit was about 90 something timers. As more and more networks do the half season scheduling (meaning I'm recording more shows than I was before) the more annoying the limit was. Don't know what the new limit is, but I'm sure I'll hit it eventually. :)

The plus side is Dish does a very good job with conflict management. It will determine things that are on again in the week and automatically resolve that. It also has a nice visual interface for you to manually resolve the ones that it can't.

At any rate, I think Tivo and Dish spank all the other Cable and Sat DVRs out there. But I just can't say that the Dish is the clear winner. Because it's not. But Tivo isn't light years ahead of Dish like they used to be either.

I agree. TIVO and Dish DVR's seem to be light years ahead of any current cable DVR offerings. I could be happy with either Dish or DirecTV/Tivo DVR offering.

Oh really.
Well, last I checked it had no firewire, and your "unlimited" USB drive storage is tied to your receiver, so when that goes tits up, you're stuck with all the encrypted useless data. I hope you enjoy that.

Well my Tivo went "tits" up and now I have a very expensive paperweight. With Dish I could just call them and have them send me another one. In my opinion this is a very big plus.

I've had Tivo. I currently have the 622 (which according to the guys on DBStalk shares the same software platform with the 722).

Given that, I'd rather have multiple HD DVRs with a network option. It's always irritated me that Dish has Ethernet on several DVRs, but no networking ability.

This is supposed to be forthcoming.


The other downside to Dish is there's a limit on timers and events. Up until a late this year the limit was about 90 something timers. As more and more networks do the half season scheduling (meaning I'm recording more shows than I was before) the more annoying the limit was. Don't know what the new limit is, but I'm sure I'll hit it eventually. :)

The new limit is something like 270 Timers or 500 events.

Ted

Well my Tivo went "tits" up and now I have a very expensive paperweight. With Dish I could just call them and have them send me another one. In my opinion this is a very big plus.

I just became a Dish customer this month. Will Dish replace a defective DVR for free? I got suckered into leasing a DVR when I was with DirecTV. My first Tivo hard drive failed and a CSR offered me a free R-15 replacement. I was very happy until I realized a couple of months later that I had actually leased the R-15 from them and made a 24 month service comittment. Really pissed me off... The CSR did not mention anything about a lease or a service renewal. Does Dish pull the same crap on their customers? If the internal hard drive fails on Dish 722, will an external hard drive still work?

If you sign the 18 month commitment, you get Dish Home Protection Plan for free for the term of your commitment IIRC, so yes, otherwise it is $5.99 a month.

If the 722 internal HD dies, the external HD will still work and can be moved to the replacement receiver up to 3 times. You do not have to re-format the drive to continue using it.

Ted

If you sign the 18 month commitment, you get Dish Home Protection Plan for free for the term of your commitment IIRC, so yes, otherwise it is $5.99 a month.

If the 722 internal HD dies, the external HD will still work and can be moved to the replacement receiver up to 3 times. You do not have to re-format the drive to continue using it.

Ted

Ah, but the external HD will not work with the defective DVR only a new one. Correct? I wasn't aware that there was a Dish Home Protection Plan... I signed up via ATT since I am an employee. Does ATT Dish offer the same protection plan? I believe I signed up for 18 months. Not positive though.

Ah, but the external HD will not work with the defective DVR only a new one. Correct? I wasn't aware that there was a Dish Home Protection Plan... I signed up via ATT since I am an employee. Does ATT Dish offer the same protection plan? I believe I signed up for 18 months. Not positive though.

Correct. The EHD will only work with a fully functional receiver. Not sure about the protection plan. I have not received my first bill yet, so I am unsure if it is a separate line item.

Ted

Ah, but the external HD will not work with the defective DVR only a new one. Correct? I wasn't aware that there was a Dish Home Protection Plan... I signed up via ATT since I am an employee. Does ATT Dish offer the same protection plan? I believe I signed up for 18 months. Not positive though.

I just signed up and Dish enrolled me in the protection program for $ 5.99 per month but is waiving the first 12 months. After that I can cancel it if I want.

As a former D* customer, I would say *E is just different. Better in some areas, lacking in others but all in all I have been pleased.

Recording 3 shows at once (1 being OTA) and having a dual live buffers is Awesome especially when I hear that D* has removed OTA recording and DLB from the H21 model.

Don't forget to add that TV2 is only controlled by UHF remote. No IR blaster or god forbid to be able to use this in a custom install. If you plan to, you will have to have separate receivers and they count each outlet as a receiver for leasing purposes. So if you have 2 receivers, then you have 4 outlets even if you are using in single room mode. WOuld be nice if they had a dual tuner SINGLE output box since they won't enable control of TV2 via IR. That's my biggest problem with dish. They are not thinking about all of their customers. True most won't need TV2 as IR. But there are some of us with Pronto Remotes with IR Extenders and would like to use it or even some of us with Crestron or AMX systems. Sucks to have a $2k remote and have to give your guest a dish remote too when you are trying to eliminate the need for a bunch of remotes.

Please pardon my newbie-ness, I'm a recent Dish subscriber. There have been some HD shows that I'd have liked to be able to record. So if I understand this thread, whatever you record is not really yours, and you can only watch it as long as you remain an active subscriber. Once you cancel the subscription, whatever you recorded is useless, can't be played back at all. You would have to remain a subscriber for life. Am I correct?

Thanks,

Please pardon my newbie-ness, I'm a recent Dish subscriber. There have been some HD shows that I'd have liked to be able to record. So if I understand this thread, whatever you record is not really yours, and you can only watch it as long as you remain an active subscriber. Once you cancel the subscription, whatever you recorded is useless, can't be played back at all. You would have to remain a subscriber for life. Am I correct?

Thanks,

BINGO!

If you sign the 18 month commitment, you get Dish Home Protection Plan for free for the term of your commitment IIRC, so yes, otherwise it is $5.99 a month.

If the 722 internal HD dies, the external HD will still work and can be moved to the replacement receiver up to 3 times. You do not have to re-format the drive to continue using it.

Ted

Does anyone have any idea as to what would happen if you didn't have the protection plan and the DVR dies? Would you have to pay for a new one? If you didn't want to pay and didn't have a contract, could you just cancel and give them back their broken box?

I'm about to jump to Dish because I like their DVR and HD selection although they do seem to nickel & dime you with all the little "add-on" fees. I have 2 SD TVs and 1 HD TV, so paying for the leases, protection plans, etc just doesn't make it seem worth it all.

I believe the 722 comes with a one year warrantee. If it malfunctions dies in that time they fix it free. That means usually they swap it with a new or refurbished one. After one year it is your nickel. I suspect they will swap it also with a new or refurbished one for a fee.

However most electronics have what is known as infant mortality. That means that most electronics malfunction in the first 90 days or year if there is a problem.

Rick R

I love my 722. Here's something I discovered it does after leasing it about a month. Even if you're not recording a program, you're recording a program. It has a 60 minute "buffer" that you can "rewind" back to. The only thing it can't do that I'd like it to do is record 2 OTA programs at the same time. How did I ever live without one of these things?

My VIP722 went 'tits up' the other day - however the DVR content was still viewable. I talked to Dish and searched the Interent trying to find a way to copy my DVR content to the new unit with no luck. Although Dish never suggesed it, I gather I might have been able to copy the info to an external drive and watch it via USB.

However, I did remove the hard drive from the old unit and installed it into the new unit (very easy!) and everything seems to be working okay. Swapping the hard drive between units was very simple - with a little wrangling I was able to remove the drive with out breaking the warranty seal next to the fan.

My VIP722 went 'tits up' the other day - however the DVR content was still viewable. I talked to Dish and searched the Interent trying to find a way to copy my DVR content to the new unit with no luck. Although Dish never suggesed it, I gather I might have been able to copy the info to an external drive and watch it via USB.

However, I did remove the hard drive from the old unit and installed it into the new unit (very easy!) and everything seems to be working okay. Swapping the hard drive between units was very simple - with a little wrangling I was able to remove the drive with out breaking the warranty seal next to the fan.

Did you have to pay for a new unit? Or did dish warranty the DVR? If so, how long have you had it? I've been on the fence for a while and would be interested to know.

Thanks

Guys is this unit still the best out so far compared to lets say the latest HD DVR from Directv? I have heard really bad things about the Directv HD DVR's, but a lot of good things about this model by Dish.

Also do you guys know what dish they give you with this ViP722 receiver? I know it does OTA, anyone got that working with this receiver to record from it? Did you guys get the bundle OTA antenna from Dish as well and how much did that cost you extra?

dja2k

Guys is this unit still the best out so far compared to lets say the latest HD DVR from Directv? I have heard really bad things about the Directv HD DVR's, but a lot of good things about this model by Dish.

Also do you guys know what dish they give you with this ViP722 receiver? I know it does OTA, anyone got that working with this receiver to record from it? Did you guys get the bundle OTA antenna from Dish as well and how much did that cost you extra?

dja2k


I have had the 722 for about 2 months now. Other than it locking up 2 times in those two months and missing some recordings during that time until I found it locked up, it's been pretty good.

I have a small 3 foot directional antenna on the roof of my house from an old system I had called "Voom". I plugged that antenna in and let the 722 do a search for channels and it found a few at about 60 to 70 strength on the meter. I'm around 52 miles from our nearest HD towers, so I thought that was pretty good. I found a power injector that I had laying around from that same Voom setup, plugged it in, and it boosted the reception on those 4 or 5 channels I was getting in the 60 to 70 range up to 90 to 100. Then it picked up 3 or 4 more channels.

After I had the OTA antenna hooked up, I really started to like my 722. I can record 3 HD shows at the same time, and watch something off the DVR at the same time. The OTA really is a big plus and I wasn't aware it would be able to record 3 shows when I bought it. The only problem I've found is one or two of my OTA channels as listed in the GUIDE in the receiver, don't show any programming information. I have to scroll down to the same channel delivered via satellite to view the info. Not sure if that's a DISH issue, or local channel issue.

Also, I was expecting to have recording times separate. I think my 722 says 55 hours of HD and 300 or 350 of standard? Those are combined. If I record 10 hours of HD, then my standard def hours go way way down. I'm really surprised how fast I've filled up my 722. I'm constantly going through DVR shows and figuring out what I can delete to free up some space. Probably some time this summer, I'll buy a 750 GB USB drive and have the USB expansion enabled.

So if you have 2 receivers, then you have 4 outlets even if you are using in single room mode.

Just for the record each 722 only counts as one receiver for billing purposes as long as the box is connected to a phone line.

Has anyone used the external hard drive feature on this device? Is the programming that is transferred to the drive visible in a PC or is it only data visible to the VIP722? If so, the only way to view these video's portable is with the pocketDISH players from Archos.

dja2k

Has anyone used the external hard drive feature on this device? Is the programming that is transferred to the drive visible in a PC or is it only data visible to the VIP722? If so, the only way to view these video's portable is with the pocketDISH players from Archos.

dja2k

Data is encrypted and cannot be viewed on a PC. But you can take the drive to another VIP receiver in your house and watch the content there.

So then I am better off buying an Archos unit that is PocketDish compatible like the 605 or 705 Wifi units. They are good enough, have a 160 GB hard disk. They sell a docking station which will let me stream the video to any tv that I connect it to.

dja2k

There is a serious glitch with the 722 and no known cure. There is a thread on this.

There is a serious glitch with the 722 and no known cure. There is a thread on this.
A glitch with what? - If I may ask....

dja2k

Just started subscribing to Dish. My wife and I love it so far!

I love the 722, but I'm still struggling with the dual TV setup. If anyone can help, I'd appreciate it.

When recording two programs, from the primary TV position (remote 1) in dual mode, it seems to make the default record tuner #2. Then if that tuner is occupied and I still want something recorded, it'll go to tuner #1. Question is: Can I switch which tuner is actually displaying the live TV?

Example: it's 6:45 pm now, and I sit down to watch tv. I have a timer set for tuner #2 to record a movie from 9-11pm. Tuner #1 is set to record a different movie from 7-10pm (this can't be done by tuner #2 since there is one hour of overlap from 9-10pm). At 7 pm, the DVR tells me that my tuner wants to record the movie and that I can no longer watch live TV (unless it's to watch the movie), but tuner #2 is currently unused, and will be until 9pm. Is there a way to have the live TV switch to tuner #2 to watch tv at least until 9?

Just started subscribing to Dish. My wife and I love it so far!

I love the 722, but I'm still struggling with the dual TV setup. If anyone can help, I'd appreciate it.

When recording two programs, from the primary TV position (remote 1) in dual mode, it seems to make the default record tuner #2. Then if that tuner is occupied and I still want something recorded, it'll go to tuner #1. Question is: Can I switch which tuner is actually displaying the live TV?

Example: it's 6:45 pm now, and I sit down to watch tv. I have a timer set for tuner #2 to record a movie from 9-11pm. Tuner #1 is set to record a different movie from 7-10pm (this can't be done by tuner #2 since there is one hour of overlap from 9-10pm). At 7 pm, the DVR tells me that my tuner wants to record the movie and that I can no longer watch live TV (unless it's to watch the movie), but tuner #2 is currently unused, and will be until 9pm. Is there a way to have the live TV switch to tuner #2 to watch tv at least until 9?

If you switch to single mode you can change swap between the tuners using the "swap" button on the remote. Otherwise you are stuck watching either recorded material, OTA programming, or whatever is being recorded on Tuner #1 on TV#1.

Ted

You can switch which timer is the default timer. Yours is currently set to timer 2 as the default apparently. You can change this to timer 1. I forget the sequence to do this. If you do this it will use timer 1 and only use timer 2 if timer 1 is already scheduled to record something at the same time.

Rick R

You can switch which timer is the default timer. Yours is currently set to timer 2 as the default apparently. You can change this to timer 1. I forget the sequence to do this. If you do this it will use timer 1 and only use timer 2 if timer 1 is already scheduled to record something at the same time.

Rick R


I think the option is called RecordPlus. With it on, you can set the default tuner (TV in dual mode) to record to. So when you record something it will go to this tuner. If you then record something else at the same time it goes to the other tuner. Also keep in mind the OTA tuner is separate so if you have an antenna you can record 3 programs.

If you turn off RecordPlus then which ever TV you create the timer from is the one it records on.

i have my 722 setup with my HDTV in my living room, and i am planning on buying a new HDTV for my bedroom...

point blank - is there ANY (e.g. ordering another 722, getting a converter, etc.) way whatsoever I can get an HD satellite TV signal on this upcoming secondary bedroom TV?

I want to make sure I don't waste money buying an amazing 2nd TV that just won't partake in my HD satellite service.

thanks in advance for the help.

i have my 722 setup with my HDTV in my living room, and i am planning on buying a new HDTV for my bedroom...

point blank - is there ANY (e.g. ordering another 722, getting a converter, etc.) way whatsoever I can get an HD satellite TV signal on this upcoming secondary bedroom TV?

I want to make sure I don't waste money buying an amazing 2nd TV that just won't partake in my HD satellite service.

thanks in advance for the help.

Sure, you just need a second receiver. I have 2 HD and 2 SD TVs in my house and they all work fine with my VIP722 and VIP222 (the 222 doesn't have recording features, but it's a $100 fee to add a second DVR).

I'm about to switch from TWC to Dish. I have 2 HDTV's and would like a VIP722 and VIP211. I'm going to order the DishHD package (+locals+2movies). If I request these 2 receivers will I get them? Their advertizing for the package says free upgrade to our best receiver... so that would infer the VIP722.

Doing their on-line build, the 722 appears to come up with 1 HDTV, but if you add another HDTV it appears 2 211's show up with no option to change one to DVR. I did chat, and she said no problem, just add a $7 STB fee. I just don't want them to send out a 612.

I don't have a phone line close to where the 722 would be, but if I order it as "single", they shouldn't charge the extra fee if not connected, right?

Sure, you just need a second receiver. I have 2 HD and 2 SD TVs in my house and they all work fine with my VIP722 and VIP222 (the 222 doesn't have recording features, but it's a $100 fee to add a second DVR).

Bummer on the fee, but at least that clarifies it. Hope that doesn't mean an extension on the contract though. Thanks for the answer.

Bummer on the fee, but at least that clarifies it. Hope that doesn't mean an extension on the contract though. Thanks for the answer.

Just to be clear, the 222 isn't a DVR, so there's no fee for one of those in addition to the 722.

Just to be clear, the 222 isn't a DVR, so there's no fee for one of those in addition to the 722.

There may be no up front fee, but there is an additional monthly fee for having an additional receiver. I have a 622, a 625 and a 211 (don't ask). I pay additional monthly fees for the other two receivers and a leased fee for my 622 (plus those annoying DVR fees).

Just called Dish. I asked about getting a 2nd receiver (given my issue with the 722 and my 2nd HDTV) and there is a $100 upfront fee to do so, along with either a $13 monthly ongoing fee for an HD-DVR (the 612 I think she called it) or $7 monthly for the non-DVR HD receiver.

What ticked me off, aside from having to pay $100 for something I'm going to be leasing anyway, was the customer rep, who initially said that adding the 2nd receiver had no effect on my contract, and after 20 mins. backtracks and tells me my 18 month contract would actually restart if I add the 2nd box.

I find that ridiculous.

was the customer rep, who initially said that adding the 2nd receiver had no effect on my contract, and after 20 mins. backtracks and tells me my 18 month contract would actually restart if I add the 2nd box.

I find that ridiculous.

Seriously? They want to make you sign an entirely new contract because you're adding service? That's outrageous.

I think the breakdown of fees is $5/month for a normal receiver, $7/month for an HD receiver, then there's a $5/month fee for upgrading your receiver to a DVR. Right now there's a promotion running (I think) that allows you to basically get the upgrade to the DVR for free.

Any change that benefits your either comes with a fee or a contract extension, just like a cell phone company. Dish can be worse than DirecTV on this stuff, but at least they are up front about it. DirecTV tried to charge me to cancel my contract even though the language of the contract clearly stated that I did not have to do so as long as I returned my equipment. A little call to the State Attorney General's office fixed that, but it should not have been necessary.

Ted

Any change that benefits your either comes with a fee or a contract extension, just like a cell phone company. Dish can be worse than DirecTV on this stuff, but at least they are up front about it. DirecTV tried to charge me to cancel my contract even though the language of the contract clearly stated that I did not have to do so as long as I returned my equipment. A little call to the State Attorney General's office fixed that, but it should not have been necessary.

Ted

I'm not sure signing up for another non-promotional service at normal rates would be considered a benefit to you. More like a benefit to them. Unless he actually is signing up for a promo?... If I switch from top 200 to top 100 plus or even the all HD package, the contract will not be extended. This is what I was told by the rep when I signed up anyway.

The 211 is not a DVR but it is a HD satellite receiver. On the last Tech Forum they stated that they would soon down load software into the 211 that would enable you to plug in an external hard drive to the usb port and convert it into a DVR. They stated there would be a $49 fee to enable this. They also stated that this download would be done in July or August. I took that to mean August.

I have a 622 in my family room that is also connected to a TV in my guest room. I also have a 211 in the master beedroom. My wife is constantly seeing something on the bedroom TV and saying, "back that up". Then saying, "darn we can not do that here".

Rick R

I'm not sure signing up for another non-promotional service at normal rates would be considered a benefit to you. More like a benefit to them. Unless he actually is signing up for a promo?... If I switch from top 200 to top 100 plus or even the all HD package, the contract will not be extended. This is what I was told by the rep when I signed up anyway.

Exactly. Save for the iPhone I think, not even cell phone companies throw you into a contract if you're adding equipment or services at ordinary rates. There's no promotional period, discount or anything I'm getting, so to restart my contract for 18 months solely for adding a 2nd receiver (at regular prices) is just plain ridiculous.

Exactly. Save for the iPhone I think, not even cell phone companies throw you into a contract if you're adding equipment or services at ordinary rates. There's no promotional period, discount or anything I'm getting, so to restart my contract for 18 months solely for adding a 2nd receiver (at regular prices) is just plain ridiculous.

Not True! Both AT&T and Verizon will extend your contract if you add a phone to a family plan, much to my sister-in-law's chagrin. She found out the hard way. This is the same type of scenario. If you are getting service-subsidized hardware, expect to extend your contract to cover that cost. Otherwise they are throwing money down the drain. I suppose you could pay full price for the receiver to avoid the contract extension. A 612 would cost you $269 retail.

Dish will also charge you a $5 fee if you reduce your plan to a lower-priced one. Not as bad as a contract extension, but they get you coming and going.

Ted

Not True! Both AT&T and Verizon will extend your contract if you add a phone to a family plan, much to my sister-in-law's chagrin. She found out the hard way. This is the same type of scenario. If you are getting service-subsidized hardware, expect to extend your contract to cover that cost. Otherwise they are throwing money down the drain. I suppose you could pay full price for the receiver to avoid the contract extension. A 612 would cost you $269 retail.

Dish will also charge you a $5 fee if you reduce your plan to a lower-priced one. Not as bad as a contract extension, but they get you coming and going.

Ted

Well I'll presume that was a free and/or discounted phone added to her account, in which case I can understand. Here, per the rep's words, there was no promotion or discount I'd be getting, so a contract extension is a perplexing and sad route to throw a customer into. It just makes me reluctant to even get the box through Dish now.

Anywho. The 722 works fine. I just wish I'd looked into this issue before, which is now turning into an unpleasant one.

Thanks for all your comments.

i have my 722 setup with my HDTV in my living room, and i am planning on buying a new HDTV for my bedroom...

point blank - is there ANY (e.g. ordering another 722, getting a converter, etc.) way whatsoever I can get an HD satellite TV signal on this upcoming secondary bedroom TV?

I want to make sure I don't waste money buying an amazing 2nd TV that just won't partake in my HD satellite service.

thanks in advance for the help.

You can do it by having one tv use the Component out and the other using HDMI. The content will have to be the same on both room's tvs with that method though.

hey fellas quick question. i have direct tv and have hd receiver i lease from them (cant remember model #)

that receiver is connected to the only phone line in the house. i want to get another hd receiver, can they hook it up to that same phone line or would i have to get a whole new home number to do this?

also, where can i buy the vip 722? i think i like this one better than the hd dvr direct tv offers.

hey fellas quick question. i have direct tv and have hd receiver i lease from them (cant remember model #)

that receiver is connected to the only phone line in the house. i want to get another hd receiver, can they hook it up to that same phone line or would i have to get a whole new home number to do this?

also, where can i buy the vip 722? i think i like this one better than the hd dvr direct tv offers.

You do not need a new phone line for the second box. They can and will share the same line although you will need another jack or a splitter to hook it up.

The Vip 722 is a dish network box and will not work with direct tv. If you want to switch, give dish network a call or check their website.

I just signed up for Turbo-HD service online and then I called Dish to find out what DVR I was going to get. They told me that I was going to get the VIP612. I told them that I wanted the 622 and they said that the only option was the 722 and that it would cost $50 to upgrade.

Did I/they screw something up? does this sound right?

I also signed up for TurboHD, and was told I'd be getting the VIP722 and there was a $50 upgrade fee, however my fist bill will have a $50 credit on it. They did charge my credit card $50.
One other note, when I ordered I said I did not want the Local Channels option. I planned to use my OTA antenna to get my locals in HD. The sales rep told me that I couldn't record (DVR) incoming signals from at OTA antenna. That seems ridiculous! Can the 722 only record the MPEG4 stream from satellite and not record the MPEG2 OTA stream.

Install is on Saturday, I plan to ask the tech about this also.

I also signed up for TurboHD, and was told I'd be getting the VIP722 and there was a $50 upgrade fee, however my fist bill will have a $50 credit on it. They did charge my credit card $50.
One other note, when I ordered I said I did not want the Local Channels option. I planned to use my OTA antenna to get my locals in HD. The sales rep told me that I couldn't record (DVR) incoming signals from at OTA antenna. That seems ridiculous! Can the 722 only record the MPEG4 stream from satellite and not record the MPEG2 OTA stream.

Install is on Saturday, I plan to ask the tech about this also.

You can record OTA without local channels, but you will have no guide data for the OTA channels without subscribing to the locals. This means that name-based recording of OTA channels will not work. Only manual timers will work.

Ted

You can record OTA without local channels, but you will have no guide data for the OTA channels without subscribing to the locals. This means that name-based recording of OTA channels will not work. Only manual timers will work.

Ted

Ditto on that. I found it was worth the the extra $5 to get the guide info.

Ditto on that. I found it was worth the the extra $5 to get the guide info.

I signed up with DISH a couple months ago and noticed the same thing. I originally had the local channels for the extra $5, but was told by a DISH tech I didn't need it if I got locals OTA. I cancelled local service and immediately lost the guide data for my locas, it said something like "DIGITAL" in the guide. I reactivated the local programming and the guide data came back.

On a side note.....

Being new to the DVR world, I'm highly disappointed by the 722's software/interface. I've always used a PC for DVR functionality and while I have many reservations about Windows Vista, its Media Center interface and functionality are unrivaled IMO. It's smooth, intuitive and easy to use. With DISH, I'm amazed that a company whose sole purpose is to provide video to it's customers can have a software interface that is so incredibly clunky and cumbersome, not to mention not working like it should sometimes.

Overall, the 722 seems to do its job satisfactorily, but the software/interface is an abomination.

Being new to the DVR world, I'm highly disappointed by the 722's software/interface. I've always used a PC for DVR functionality and while I have many reservations about Windows Vista, its Media Center interface and functionality are unrivaled IMO. It's smooth, intuitive and easy to use. With DISH, I'm amazed that a company whose sole purpose is to provide video to it's customers can have a software interface that is so incredibly clunky and cumbersome, not to mention not working like it should sometimes.

Overall, the 722 seems to do its job satisfactorily, but the software/interface is an abomination.

You should check out TimeWarner Navigator or SARA. CNET named the 722 Editor's Choice. It is about as good as it gets in the DVR space. TiVO is a close second unless you started out on TiVO, then you probably find some things counter-intuitive. I started out with TiVO (on DirecTV), went to Passport when they refused to add all the new HD on TiVO, got Navigator forced down my throat by TWC, and escaped to Dish.

I am about as happy as I think is possible right now. Might I be happier on TiVO? Perhaps, but I would not get as many HD channels, so I can make due with the 722. If Verizon every rolls our fios in my area and offered TiVO, I might consider changing. Until then, I am a happy Dish customer.

Ted

You beat me to it, try anything TWC offers (SA8300 in particular), and you'll think the VIP722 is the cat's meow. I've never tried anything PC related, so l'll assume it's better than the 722 (you can obviously organize and file things better). But once you learn to lock out all the stuff you never want to look at again, the 722 does a great job. I just wish the DVR had a few more options (creating and naming your own folders to do your own sorting), and an editing feature would be nice.

We just upgraded our receivers to HD receivers and one of them is the vip722 dvr but I am noticing that the video that is displayed when you are browsing other channels looks realy clear and sharp but when I leave the browse menu to continue watching the show it looks low res. Now, this is happening on all HD channels that I watch. Anyone notice this? Currently the vip722 is connected to an avr and then to our plasma tv but I have tested it by connecting the vip722 directly to the tv and I didn't see any difference. What's the deal? Why am I not seeing the high def the way it looks in the little video screen when browsing channels?

We just upgraded our receivers to HD receivers and one of them is the vip722 dvr but I am noticing that the video that is displayed when you are browsing other channels looks realy clear and sharp but when I leave the browse menu to continue watching the show it looks low res. Now, this is happening on all HD channels that I watch. Anyone notice this? Currently the vip722 is connected to an avr and then to our plasma tv but I have tested it by connecting the vip722 directly to the tv and I didn't see any difference. What's the deal? Why am I not seeing the high def the way it looks in the little video screen when browsing channels?

This may seem obvious, but is your 722 set to output to your HDTV's native resolution (720p or 1080i)? If you are using component or HDMI the 722 defaults to 480p.

Ted

This may seem obvious, but is your 722 set to output to your HDTV's native resolution (720p or 1080i)? If you are using component or HDMI the 722 defaults to 480p.

Ted

Does anyone know if Dish ever implemented a firmware update to enable native resolution output? I'm dying for this one as one of my HDTVs has a Realta scaler in it and it would be nice to use that instead of whatever they have built into the DVR. Of course, I could switch every time I go between SD/HD stations, but I'm way too lazy for that. I heard awhile back they were planning on implementing this feature.

I doubt if this will happen, lots of requests for it though.

jitu, yes make sure you have the 722 set at 1080i. A smaller image will look sharper, but your full screen image should look very sharp.


Does anyone know if Dish ever implemented a firmware update to enable native resolution output? I'm dying for this one as one of my HDTVs has a Realta scaler in it and it would be nice to use that instead of whatever they have built into the DVR. Of course, I could switch every time I go between SD/HD stations, but I'm way too lazy for that. I heard awhile back they were planning on implementing this feature.

tcat, I set the vip722 to 1080i with 16x9 aspect ratio and our 58" plasma supports up to 1080p.

I doubt if this will happen, lots of requests for it though.

jitu, yes make sure you have the 722 set at 1080i. A smaller image will look sharper, but your full screen image should look very sharp.

Stand back farther... ;) should be very sharp beyond 10' or so. Check the HDMI cable (maybe try component to see if it's better, if it is there's something wrong with your HDMI cable)

tcat, I set the vip722 to 1080i with 16x9 aspect ratio and our 58" plasma supports up to 1080p.

tcat, I set the vip722 to 1080i with 16x9 aspect ratio and our 58" plasma supports up to 1080p.

Did that setting make it look any better? Check out channel 211 (DNC08) tonight. Word is that Dish is carrying this at full-res and full bitrate. Let us know what it looks like.

Ted

Just purchased the vip722 a few days ago. Finally got it hooked up two nights ago. Wife's complaining of a humming noise. I noticed it too, but didn't bother w/ it but now I'm wrondering....but from reading several articles, I've realized its the fan or the hdd. It's a toss up.

Just worried a little since it's my own receiver and if it messes up, then I'm screwed. :mad:

Well, just gotta cross the finger and hope for the best.

As for the DNC08, I got it set to DVR tonight. I have yet to hook up my HDMI cable but even w/ the composite cable, it's crystal clear. Same as my 622. Have you guys noticed that as well?

does the vip722 support Blutooth remotes?

Just purchased the vip722 a few days ago. Finally got it hooked up two nights ago. Wife's complaining of a humming noise. I noticed it too, but didn't bother w/ it but now I'm wrondering....but from reading several articles, I've realized its the fan or the hdd. It's a toss up.

Just worried a little since it's my own receiver and if it messes up, then I'm screwed. :mad:

Well, just gotta cross the finger and hope for the best.

As for the DNC08, I got it set to DVR tonight. I have yet to hook up my HDMI cable but even w/ the composite cable, it's crystal clear. Same as my 622. Have you guys noticed that as well?

All DVRs make some noise, either from the fan or HDD. Some are just louder than others.

If you purchased your 722 new, it should come with a warranty should you run into a problem.

Ted

does the vip722 support Blutooth remotes?

No, just UHF and IR currently.

Ted

Curious...Is there any monetary advantage to buying these 722s from say ebay or elsewhere as opposed to getting it through Dish?

Is there still some monthly fees they try to stick to you for the 'right' to use the DVR even if you purchased it 3rd party?

Thanks

Curious...Is there any monetary advantage to buying these 722s from say ebay or elsewhere as opposed to getting it through Dish?

Is there still some monthly fees they try to stick to you for the 'right' to use the DVR even if you purchased it 3rd party?

Thanks

There are monthly fees either way for the DVR. You just pay less if you own it. Whether is makes sense depends on how long you own it. I lease personally.

Ted

Gratzie...Good to know.

Personally, I am giving a 6 month window to wait before jumping the Comcast ship to hit either Dish or Direct...I was about to finally pull the trigger on Dish but with GolTV gone the way of the dingo, I am waiting until the current Comcast promotion ends.

Plus, hopefully this merger talk will either go away or lead to something bigger & better

Hello,

I have a question that no one can give me a straight answer to.

I just signed up for TurboHD, and upgraded to the 722 in order to get a 2-tuner DVR. However, I was told that in order to use both tuners, I'd have to have the DVR hooked up to two TV's. I asked if I could record something on TV1 and play it back on TV2. First I was told yes, then I was told no. Based on what I've read here, I don't believe anything Dish has told me. But still, I want to be clear.

Quite simply, what I want is to be able to record one program while watching another, or record two programs simultaneously, all on one TV. Is this possible with the 722? Thanks.

You can do what you want to do. The DVR should be in Single Mode and you use the swap button to get to the other tuner for viewing. You can record two things, or three if you have OTA hooked up, and watch a prerecorded program, all a the same time.

Hello,

I have a question that no one can give me a straight answer to.

I just signed up for TurboHD, and upgraded to the 722 in order to get a 2-tuner DVR. However, I was told that in order to use both tuners, I'd have to have the DVR hooked up to two TV's. I asked if I could record something on TV1 and play it back on TV2. First I was told yes, then I was told no. Based on what I've read here, I don't believe anything Dish has told me. But still, I want to be clear.

Quite simply, what I want is to be able to record one program while watching another, or record two programs simultaneously, all on one TV. Is this possible with the 722? Thanks.

Thanks, Bobby. That's what I thought.

How can i transfer data from 722? I would like to burn a dvd of some recordings, can i do that?

Ive got a similar question. Im getting a new 722 to replace my old one with a fried modem. Can I transfer my old recordings to the new one? Customer service said I could not. I read this whole thread and didnt find a detailed enough answer. Thanks.

Ive got a similar question. Im getting a new 722 to replace my old one with a fried modem. Can I transfer my old recordings to the new one? Customer service said I could not. I read this whole thread and didnt find a detailed enough answer. Thanks.

The easiest way to do this is to purchase a USB hard drive, sign up for the external hard drive support, archive your recordings to the USB hard drive, and then transfer them to the new 722 when you get it. It is expensive, but it will work.

Ted

How can i transfer data from 722? I would like to burn a dvd of some recordings, can i do that?

I do exactly that. I have the s-video output of the 622 (identical to the 722 except smaller hard drive) connected to my Phillips DVD burner I got at Wal Mart. It burns near commercial quality widescreen DVDs from HD programming. Unfortunately the DVD burner has no 5.1 in so I burn stereo only.

Just play the program you want to record, select the s-video in on the DVD burner, and hit the record button on the DVD burner.

Rick R

Hey guys, I have a quick 722 question. Mainly just about the wiring. I have the regular HD, non DVR receiver now for my main TV, and another SD, non DVR receiver for a TV in another room (non HDTV).

I was thinking of switching to get DVR capability on my main TV, and thought it would be nice to be able to run the SD TV off of this as well, but I don't think I understand the wiring.

Do you literally have to have a wire going from the Remote SD TV to the receiver near the main HD TV?

My house is wired well, but it's all to one main panel, not from the SD remote TV, to the HD main TV.

I don't really care about having recording ability, or even watching recorded TV from the second TV. Only thing I want the second TV to be able to do is watch regular TV and that's it.

Hey guys, I have a quick 722 question. Mainly just about the wiring. I have the regular HD, non DVR receiver now for my main TV, and another SD, non DVR receiver for a TV in another room (non HDTV).

I was thinking of switching to get DVR capability on my main TV, and thought it would be nice to be able to run the SD TV off of this as well, but I don't think I understand the wiring.

Do you literally have to have a wire going from the Remote SD TV to the receiver near the main HD TV?

My house is wired well, but it's all to one main panel, not from the SD remote TV, to the HD main TV.

I don't really care about having recording ability, or even watching recorded TV from the second TV. Only thing I want the second TV to be able to do is watch regular TV and that's it.

Part of the upgrade fee that I paid included Dishnetwork coming out and installing a new dish and receiver. I did not even touch it until it was running.

Well, I already have the two HD dishes and two receivers, I just don't quite understand how the second TV gets the signal from the DVR.

Well, I already have the two HD dishes and two receivers, I just don't quite understand how the second TV gets the signal from the DVR.

Seriously? That little bit of coax coming into your second TV carries a signal.

Hey guys, I have a quick 722 question. Mainly just about the wiring. I have the regular HD, non DVR receiver now for my main TV, and another SD, non DVR receiver for a TV in another room (non HDTV).

I was thinking of switching to get DVR capability on my main TV, and thought it would be nice to be able to run the SD TV off of this as well, but I don't think I understand the wiring.

Do you literally have to have a wire going from the Remote SD TV to the receiver near the main HD TV?

My house is wired well, but it's all to one main panel, not from the SD remote TV, to the HD main TV.

I don't really care about having recording ability, or even watching recorded TV from the second TV. Only thing I want the second TV to be able to do is watch regular TV and that's it.

If it is all wired to one panel, you can diplex the signal to TV2 over the same cable used to bring the satellite feed to the DVR. This is what I did. Works fine.

Ted

Seriously? That little bit of coax coming into your second TV carries a signal.

Really? :rolleyes:



If it is all wired to one panel, you can diplex the signal to TV2 over the same cable used to bring the satellite feed to the DVR. This is what I did. Works fine.

Ted

Thank you Ted. So basically the signal just simply gets sent all the way back through.

Really? :rolleyes:





Thank you Ted. So basically the signal just simply gets sent all the way back through.

Yes. You just need a set of diplexers.

Ted

So here's my question: I'm looking at signing up for Dish soon (TWC can go straight to hell for all I care), and have this set up:

Main HDTV, second room HDTV, third room SDTV

If I get the 722, the sales rep said it would also control the SDTV via the dual tuner. So I would basically have the 722 in room 1, a 211 in room 2, and room 3 would be connected to the 722 as well.

Is there any disadvantage/advantage to going this way as opposed to just getting a stand alone receiver for room 3?

I do want the multi-channel recording feature of the 722 and if slaving it to a second TV would hinder this, I do not want to go this route.

Also, the 722 is capable of recording 3 programs and watching a fourth. Earlier in this thread, someone mentioned the third recording would be OTA-only. Is this the case, or can one record three channels simultaneously off Dish directly (SD or HD)?

So here's my question: I'm looking at signing up for Dish soon (TWC can go straight to hell for all I care), and have this set up:

Main HDTV, second room HDTV, third room SDTV

If I get the 722, the sales rep said it would also control the SDTV via the dual tuner. So I would basically have the 722 in room 1, a 211 in room 2, and room 3 would be connected to the 722 as well.

Is there any disadvantage/advantage to going this way as opposed to just getting a stand alone receiver for room 3?

I do want the multi-channel recording feature of the 722 and if slaving it to a second TV would hinder this, I do not want to go this route.

Also, the 722 is capable of recording 3 programs and watching a fourth. Earlier in this thread, someone mentioned the third recording would be OTA-only. Is this the case, or can one record three channels simultaneously off Dish directly (SD or HD)?

The main disadvantage of using the 722 to serve 2 TVs is you cannot switch back and forth between the 2 live buffers. One buffer is dedicated to each TV. I have a 722 and a 622. I use the 722 in single mode and like to switch back and forth between tuners when watching 2 football games at once. I cannot do this on my 622 as I use it in dual mode.

With a 722 in dual mode, you can record 3 channels (2 SAT, 1 OTA) and watch 2 recorded shows at once (1 on each TV). You cannot record 3 channels off the satellite at once.

Hope this helps.

Ted

Ted, that is the way I'm setup -722 with the TV2 SD output sent back up the pipe to the main box which distributes throughout the house. Is there a way to take the TV1 HD output from the 722 and send it back up the pipe to other TVs (in addition to TV1)?

TIA

Ted, that is the way I'm setup -722 with the TV2 SD output sent back up the pipe to the main box which distributes throughout the house. Is there a way to take the TV1 HD output from the 722 and send it back up the pipe to other TVs (in addition to TV1)?

TIA

Not that I am aware of, but there may be whole house distribution systems that would work for you. I am unfamiliar with these other than knowing they exist.

Ted

If I get the 722, the sales rep said it would also control the SDTV via the dual tuner. So I would basically have the 722 in room 1, a 211 in room 2, and room 3 would be connected to the 722 as well.

Is there any disadvantage/advantage to going this way as opposed to just getting a stand alone receiver for room 3?

I do want the multi-channel recording feature of the 722 and if slaving it to a second TV would hinder this, I do not want to go this route.

Also, the 722 is capable of recording 3 programs and watching a fourth. Earlier in this thread, someone mentioned the third recording would be OTA-only. Is this the case, or can one record three channels simultaneously off Dish directly (SD or HD)?

This is the setup I have also. The advantage is that the SDTV can watch any show that has been recorded on the DVR. It also saves the $5 monthly fee for the extra satellite box.

The 722 can record three programs while the 2 TVs can watch two separate previously recorded show. I have done this. However of the three programs being recorded 2 are satellite and one is OTA. (two satellite tuners and one OTA tuner.)

As a matter of fact I have my 622 set to record three events tonight (Heros, Sara Conner Chronicles, and Dancing with the Stars) I will have to go into the bedroom to watch Monday Night Football on the 211.

Rick R

Thanks for the help! Install on 10/1. Can't wait!

The main disadvantage of using the 722 to serve 2 TVs is you cannot switch back and forth between the 2 live buffers...I use the 722 in single mode and like to switch back and forth between tuners when watching 2 football games at once.

I am unfamiliar as to how the two live buffer feature works. I'm a long time, unhappy, TWC customer and am used to losing any sort of buffer once I change the channel. It will only buffer what I'm watching even though it does have a second tuner. Once I move to another station, it's gone.

In what you're describing (in single mode) it's possible to switch between two programs you are not currently recording and the 722 will buffer both programs? So I could be watching program A, hit pause (without recording) and then jump to program B, pause and repeat? Or will program A automatically pause once I change to program B? Provided I don't change to a third channel, will program A resume from where I switched channels at that point (foregoing any pause/play button presses)?

This is quite the feature if true and miles ahead of what I'm used to.

Going back to single/dual mode. Is this easy to turn on/off? The standard def TV using the 722 is infrequently used, so it's not too big of a deal to me if it doesn't have a signal going to it all the time. If I turn it to single mode, does this completely switch off any programming on the SD TV? Or does this TV still maintain tuning functions, just without any DVR/buffering capabilities?

I have the 622, and will probably update to the 722 if they will do it for a reasonable amount.

I have the original Archos Dish Player and we love it, works great, plus I have a seagate 500mb external drive hooked up.

All in all I like the way they have implemented the storage management.

rg

evilmonkeys,

The 722/622 saves what you are watching for one hour. Thus you can back up, up to one hour. However, when you switch channels it throws it away. Thus you can back up up to one hour or to the last time you switched channels, whichever is less.

I have my 622 set to dual mode and the default timmer set to TV2. This means that when I set a timmer it uses TV2's timmer unless it is already set to record something else at that same time. The second TV can always be used normally except when this TV2 timmer is recording then it cqn only watch what is recording or some previously recorded show.

Rick R

my 722 modem went out 2 weeks ago and they sent me a refurbished one to replace it. okay, ill play that game , i said. i hooked it up and within a couple hours it would turn itself off. then again a couple hours later. in the morning it would require a pull the plug reset and then id have to wait to reconfigure sat signals and whatnot. monday morning i come home and do a pull the plug reset and i get the Terminator red eye of death. a red light came on for a second, then dimmed its way out. the unit is officially dead. so no tv monday until now. a new one should be here wednesday. it's quiet in the house with no tv. I requested them to send me a new unit, not a refurb. they said he would document the request but theres no guarantee id get one. well see tomorrow. if it is a refurb and it breaks again, im joining directv.
MJ out

my 722 modem went out 2 weeks ago and they sent me a refurbished one to replace it. okay, ill play that game , i said. i hooked it up and within a couple hours it would turn itself off. then again a couple hours later. in the morning it would require a pull the plug reset and then id have to wait to reconfigure sat signals and whatnot. monday morning i come home and do a pull the plug reset and i get the Terminator red eye of death. a red light came on for a second, then dimmed its way out. the unit is officially dead. so no tv monday until now. a new one should be here wednesday. it's quiet in the house with no tv. I requested them to send me a new unit, not a refurb. they said he would document the request but theres no guarantee id get one. well see tomorrow. if it is a refurb and it breaks again, im joining directv.
MJ out

Good luck with that. If your DirecTV DVR breaks, they will send you a refurb as well.

Ted

OK, as the handle implies I work in satcom biz (engineering large commercial ground sations). Still, the whole issue of Direct to Home satellite TV (and cable for that matter) seems incredibly complex. Gosh, I remember all we had growing up in the SF Bay Area was 6 channels of B&W VHF analog OTA (susceptible to multipath "picket fencing" from P-3 aircraft on approach to Moffet field). Now ... :eek:. Pity poor grandma trying to figure this all out. I digress.

I saw an earlier post related to the matter of program archive that indicated that the only way one could keep a program was to remain a D* subscriber. The program would be stored on the DVR or an external drive. When D* subscription terminates, the program disappears into the ether, never to be seen again.

However, I wonder if this would work for permanent, non-D* archival: According to the manual it appears that you could use the remote TV (TV2) coaxial cable output as an input to a DVD Recorder (see page 109 of the manual). Is it possible to then use the DVD Recorder output (component or YPbPr) as an another Nearby TV (TV1) input. Could you record the arriving signal on the coaxial cable input (from the VIP722HD) on a DVD for later playback (using another TV1 video/audio input)?

Clearly it would not be HD, but if there was some program you wanted to keep, it seems like this would work. I have a Sony RDR-VX515 and would like to use it from time to time for permanent storage if there is a way.

Also, could I send a previously made DVR recording to the recorder through the TV2 ouput and record it? If that was possible, what if the original program was HD, would it work since TV2 is SD only (i.e. will the VIP722 convert HD to SD before shipping it out over the TV2 output)?

If TV2 SD output is digital, would this even work? I do not know if the Sony could record and play back an SD signal (it may be limited to analog). However, perhaps there are other DVD recorders that can. Or, could the SD signal be converted to analog before insertion into the recorder.

I'm sooooo confused. :D Thanks in advance for any comments or suggestions.

Quite an informative thread here. I am about to order new DISH service. I live alone and have one HD and 3 SD TVs. I am happy to use all 3 SD TVs as TV2. My research on the site leads me to believe that splitting the "agile modulator backfeed" to 3 TVs is no big deal. I have wiring in place and readily accessible for this. Does DISH care how many TVs I have connected as TV2? I assume I only pay based on the number of SAT receivers I have, as opposed to how many TVs I have hooked up to them.

Quite an informative thread here. I am about to order new DISH service. I live alone and have one HD and 3 SD TVs. I am happy to use all 3 SD TVs as TV2. My research on the site leads me to believe that splitting the "agile modulator backfeed" to 3 TVs is no big deal. I have wiring in place and readily accessible for this. Does DISH care how many TVs I have connected as TV2? I assume I only pay based on the number of SAT receivers I have, as opposed to how many TVs I have hooked up to them.

Nope. split TV2 as much as you like. Mine goes 8 ways.

First of all, you guys are great at this forum.

I think I have a unique question/problem with my VIP722 and was hoping one of you would know what to do.

I have Dish Network with VIP722 receiver and love it, but Dish Network does not yet have my local channels in HD. So, I kept my basic cable subscription for $10/month because it includes my local channels in HD. I wanted record these HD locals with the VIP722 so I connected the cable line to the VIP722 via the antenna/CATV input on the back of the VIP722. I had the VIP722 scan for the local channels and it found nothing! (While scanning for locals, the VIP722 only scanned to channel 68.) The standard definition local channels are cable channels 6, 12, 24, and 51. The same channels in high definition are located at 102.1, 102.2, 104.1, and 103.7 on the cable line. Why didn't the VIP722 at least find the cable channels up to channel 68? Can the VIP722 even recognize the cable format? Is there any way to get those HD Locals into the VIP722?

First of all, you guys are great at this forum.

I think I have a unique question/problem with my VIP722 and was hoping one of you would know what to do.

I have Dish Network with VIP722 receiver and love it, but Dish Network does not yet have my local channels in HD. So, I kept my basic cable subscription for $10/month because it includes my local channels in HD. I wanted record these HD locals with the VIP722 so I connected the cable line to the VIP722 via the antenna/CATV input on the back of the VIP722. I had the VIP722 scan for the local channels and it found nothing! (While scanning for locals, the VIP722 only scanned to channel 68.) The standard definition local channels are cable channels 6, 12, 24, and 51. The same channels in high definition are located at 102.1, 102.2, 104.1, and 103.7 on the cable line. Why didn't the VIP722 at least find the cable channels up to channel 68? Can the VIP722 even recognize the cable format? Is there any way to get those HD Locals into the VIP722?

Your local cable company most likely uses a technology called QAM to broadcast the HD channels across the cable. The 722 cannot tune QAM. The antenna input is for OTA (over the air) digital broadcasts only. You could get an antenna to receive the OTA signals, and that would work fine with the 722.

Ted

Because the VIP 722 doesn't have a QAM tuner in it and cable uses that scheme. Unfortunately you will not be able to achieve what you are looking for unless you are able to ad an antenna that will receive your ATSC signal from the local stations.

I saw an earlier post related to the matter of program archive that indicated that the only way one could keep a program was to remain a D* subscriber. The program would be stored on the DVR or an external drive. When D* subscription terminates, the program disappears into the ether, never to be seen again.

However, I wonder if this would work for permanent, non-D* archival: According to the manual it appears that you could use the remote TV (TV2) coaxial cable output as an input to a DVD Recorder (see page 109 of the manual). Is it possible to then use the DVD Recorder output (component or YPbPr) as an another Nearby TV (TV1) input. Could you record the arriving signal on the coaxial cable input (from the VIP722HD) on a DVD for later playback (using another TV1 video/audio input)?

Clearly it would not be HD, but if there was some program you wanted to keep, it seems like this would work. I have a Sony RDR-VX515 and would like to use it from time to time for permanent storage if there is a way.

Also, could I send a previously made DVR recording to the recorder through the TV2 ouput and record it? If that was possible, what if the original program was HD, would it work since TV2 is SD only (i.e. will the VIP722 convert HD to SD before shipping it out over the TV2 output)?

If TV2 SD output is digital, would this even work? I do not know if the Sony could record and play back an SD signal (it may be limited to analog). However, perhaps there are other DVD recorders that can. Or, could the SD signal be converted to analog before insertion into the recorder.

I'm sooooo confused. :D Thanks in advance for any comments or suggestions.

The TV2 output is analog, so using a DVD recording IS an option. It will be an SD recording. The 722 will downconvert the HD signal to SD. You can record in letterbox or normal mode.

I don't know much about DVD recorders, so please forgive my ignorance. If the DVD recorder has S-Video (or component) in, the better solution would be just to run S-Video (or component) and audio out (does the DVD recorder have optical in? If so, even better) from the 722 (TV1) to the DVD recorder as this will likely give you a better resulting recording.

Also, D* refers to DirecTV. E* refers to Dish (Echostar). Good luck!

Ted

Because the VIP 722 doesn't have a QAM tuner in it and cable uses that scheme. Unfortunately you will not be able to achieve what you are looking for unless you are able to ad an antenna that will receive your ATSC signal from the local stations.

Bobby and Ted - Thanks for the information. I guess I'll try an antenna. Thanks again!

Bobby and Ted - Thanks for the information. I guess I'll try an antenna. Thanks again!

Here is a good resource for picking an appropriate antenna:

http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.aspx

Ted

Nope. split TV2 as much as you like. Mine goes 8 ways.

I assume you're using a distribution amp to handle that many splits?

evilmonkeys,

The 722/622 saves what you are watching for one hour. Thus you can back up, up to one hour. However, when you switch channels it throws it away. Thus you can back up up to one hour or to the last time you switched channels, whichever is less.

Rick R

After backing up within the 1-hour buffer, can you start recording from that point? The TiVo (although only 30 minutes) has spoiled me in that I can miss the start of a program on the currently tuned channel but be assured that I can still record it in its entirety.

Also, D* refers to DirecTV. E* refers to Dish (Echostar). Good luck!

Ted

Ted,
Thank you so much for your comments. Fer heavin's sake how could I have made such a blunder - Of course, I really meant E* not D* in my earlier post. But wait, Echostar is now officially a seperate company and the engineering arm of the Charlie Ergan empire. It is not directly involved with program content and distribution (unless the uplink facility in Cheyenne falls under it). The Dish Network company handles the Direct to Home TV broadcasts and content (the consumer arm if you will). Used to have a vanpool rider that worked at Echostar in Englewood. While under the same corporate holding company umbrella, Echostar and Dish Network are separate companies. So Dish Network is really the proper company name to consider as competition to D*. And now both companies use "D", what should we do? Call them DN and DT? :D

Thanks again for information, it confirmed what I was thinking.
Cheers

After backing up within the 1-hour buffer, can you start recording from that point? The TiVo (although only 30 minutes) has spoiled me in that I can miss the start of a program on the currently tuned channel but be assured that I can still record it in its entirety.


Yes you can.

I watched a program , halfway into it I have to leave. I rewind all the way and start recording. The buffer is 1 hour.

I upgraded to the VIP722 this morning. I have a couple quick questions...

I was under the impression that the 722 handles 1080p with their on-demand channels. However, in HDTV setup, the highest resolution I can select is
1080i. Also, the channels associated with 1080p on demand per the Dish website don't show up on my channel guide. How do I enable 1080p and receive these channels?

Also, my channel guide shows future programming until at least Thursday for all channels except for locals. For example, I can't view past today's 1130am slot for ABC, its blocked off saying "no info available". I tried running a program update, but that didn't seem to work. Can anyone help me out?

Thanks!

I upgraded to the VIP722 this morning. I have a couple quick questions...

I was under the impression that the 722 handles 1080p with their on-demand channels. However, in HDTV setup, the highest resolution I can select is
1080i. Also, the channels associated with 1080p on demand per the Dish website don't show up on my channel guide. How do I enable 1080p and receive these channels?

Also, my channel guide shows future programming until at least Thursday for all channels except for locals. For example, I can't view past today's 1130am slot for ABC, its blocked off saying "no info available". I tried running a program update, but that didn't seem to work. Can anyone help me out?

Thanks!


There is no setting for 1080p. If you rent a movie that is in 1080p on channel 501 then it will auto switch to 1080p24 if your TV is capable. It is only 1080p while those specific movies are playing.

If you want to save to DVD shows that are on the 722/622 the best way is to use the s-video out to the DVD burner. I do this and get near commercial quality widescreen DVDs. My DVD burner does not have a optical in so the DVDs are stereo only however.

To do this you need to make sure the DVD burner has s-video in. I got a Phillips unit from Wal Mart.

Rick R

I have had the 722 DVR for about 4 months now. Recently I have notice something that is very troubling. When I record/pause an event and then go to view it, the playback often freezes up or skips erratically. For example, I recorded parts of the Ryder Cup last weekend. While watching the playback the picture would often freeze up and skip ahead. The problem seems to be amplified as I try to skip through the commercials and on several occasions the picture would just freeze and get stuck for periods up to 10 mins. and I would have to power down the receiver to get a picture back.

Has anyone experienced a problem like this?

Yes you can.

I watched a program , halfway into it I have to leave. I rewind all the way and start recording. The buffer is 1 hour.

Thanks! I had gotten used to that and am glad to hear that the 722 supports it. In fact with multiple tuners it might need it even more.

Are there 2 or 3 buffers? i.e. is OTA buffered too?

Thanks! I had gotten used to that and am glad to hear that the 722 supports it. In fact with multiple tuners it might need it even more.

Are there 2 or 3 buffers? i.e. is OTA buffered too?

3: 2 SAT & 1 OTA

Ted

3: 2 SAT & 1 OTA

Ted

Woo Hoo! That will take the place of the three TiVo's I have :D

Could anyone tell me precisely how to setup the OTA anteannae?

I upgraded to the VIP722 this morning. I have a couple quick questions...

Also, the channels associated with 1080p on demand per the Dish website don't show up on my channel guide. How do I enable 1080p and receive these channels?

Also, my channel guide shows future programming until at least Thursday for all channels except for locals. For example, I can't view past today's 1130am slot for ABC, its blocked off saying "no info available". I tried running a program update, but that didn't seem to work. Can anyone help me out?

Thanks!

The On Demand menus may take a couple days to show up on the guide. I think they only update it once or twice a week. I have four movies on the on Demand menu (Rambo, 10000bc, rosco jenkins, and fools gold) 10000bc was the only one that stated it was broadcast in 1080P. and it was only $2.99 . the other three were higher. Theyre all listed on the same channel.

Hopefully your guide will update itself. If not, try a manual reset (under the right front panel press and hold the power button).

Could anyone tell me precisely how to setup the OTA anteannae?

There is an antenna in connector on the back of the 722. You connect the antenna there. If you need help on selecting an antenna there is a sticky thread on the subject in the HDTV Technical forum. The short answer is if you live close to the transmitters a set top antenna such as the Silver Sensor is good. Otherwise a rooftop antenna is required.

Going into the 722 menu for local channels to do a scan is also required.

Rick R

There is an antenna in connector on the back of the 722. You connect the antenna there. If you need help on selecting an antenna there is a sticky thread on the subject in the HDTV Technical forum. The short answer is if you live close to the transmitters a set top antenna such as the Silver Sensor is good. Otherwise a rooftop antenna is required.

Going into the 722 menu for local channels to do a scan is also required.

Rick R

I do have the antenae hooked up to the dvr, I scan for channels and nothing comes in.

If I have the antenae hooked up to the west, I get many many channels, all in crystal clear HD.

What am I doing wrong?

I do have the antenae hooked up to the dvr, I scan for channels and nothing comes in.

If I have the antenae hooked up to the west, I get many many channels, all in crystal clear HD.

What am I doing wrong?

What is a "west"? Is that your TV? Westinghouse?

Ted

I do have the antenae hooked up to the dvr, I scan for channels and nothing comes in.

If I have the antenae hooked up to the west, I get many many channels, all in crystal clear HD.

What am I doing wrong?

MSP stations are broadcast from towers in Shoreview. Not sure where you are at

check out HDTVtwincities.com for local antenna setup.

What is a "west"? Is that your TV? Westinghouse?

Ted

Yes, the tv is a Westinghouse. tx42f430s

I live in West St. Paul. There are a lot of local channels.

Yes, the tv is a Westinghouse. tx42f430s

I live in West St. Paul. There are a lot of local channels.

If you can get the channels to come in OTA to your tv, but not your DVR, then there is something wrong with your DVR. I would call Tech Support. (Be prepared to wait and be patient as some of Dish's call centers are overseas and busy).

Ted

I'm going to go out on a limb here. akajimmy, you are doing the scan in the DVR aren't you? To do that, on your DVR remote press Menu, 6, 9 and then Scan Locals. Is that what you have done already?

I'm going to go out on a limb here. akajimmy, you are doing the scan in the DVR aren't you? To do that, on your DVR remote press Menu, 6, 9 and then Scan Locals. Is that what you have done already?

Yes. That is what I have done. I scan and 0 channels come up.

Then it sounds like the ATSC tuner or something going to it is bad as has been mentioned previously. Get them to send you another DVR.

3: 2 SAT & 1 OTA

Ted


I am considering dumping Comcast and switching to DISH. According to their on line 'help' person I can record 2 shows at the same time off an antenna. I am really wondering if this is true. We don't yet have local HD's from DISH here in Indy, and I only can pull the trigger if it can do 2 over-the-air recordings at once. Thanks.

Only one OTA tuner, sorry.....

Only one OTA tuner, sorry.....

That's what I was afraid of..lol. AVS Forum sure helps in these situations! So I guess I am stuck with Comcast for the moment. I could go with Directv but they are barely cheaper than Comcast. Maybe DISH will get my HD locals available soon. We have a 1.6 million metro area and still no HD locals.

That's what I was afraid of..lol. AVS Forum sure helps in these situations! So I guess I am stuck with Comcast for the moment. I could go with Directv but they are barely cheaper than Comcast. Maybe DISH will get my HD locals available soon. We have a 1.6 million metro area and still no HD locals.

Dish seems to have something against Indy for some reason. Options include TivoHD, or you can wait for the 922 which will have dual OTA tuners.

Ted

We just got the new 722 installed a few days ago and are still figuring it out. We have been using it in single mode (love the picture in picture capabilities) and have TV1 hooked up via HDMI cable to to the Samsung 67" DLP. The TV2 output goes into our distribution box which sends the signal off to two other SD tv's in the house.

But today something came up and I can't figure out what we should have done. We were recording Nascar on one channel and at the same time watching NFL football on another channel. We did not want to use the PIP but just wanted to flip back and forth between the ongoing recording and the NFL game.

Problem was that while we were recording we did not have the "resume" option, so as soon as we went back into the other channel to watch the football game, we could not pick back up on the nascar race where we had left off because it was still in recording mode.

So... there must be a way to do this. Should we have been using Dual Mode? or when we were watching the ongoing Nascar recording, if we would have hit pause, then hit the recall button to go back to the football game and then back to the Nascar race would that have worked?

Still learning and this technology is pretty fancy and complicated too!

Portia

We just got the new 722 installed a few days ago and are still figuring it out. We have been using it in single mode (love the picture in picture capabilities) and have TV1 hooked up via HDMI cable to to the Samsung 67" DLP. The TV2 output goes into our distribution box which sends the signal off to two other SD tv's in the house.

But today something came up and I can't figure out what we should have done. We were recording Nascar on one channel and at the same time watching NFL football on another channel. We did not want to use the PIP but just wanted to flip back and forth between the ongoing recording and the NFL game.

Problem was that while we were recording we did not have the "resume" option, so as soon as we went back into the other channel to watch the football game, we could not pick back up on the nascar race where we had left off because it was still in recording mode.

So... there must be a way to do this. Should we have been using Dual Mode? or when we were watching the ongoing Nascar recording, if we would have hit pause, then hit the recall button to go back to the football game and then back to the Nascar race would that have worked?

Still learning and this technology is pretty fancy and complicated too!

Portia

The way to do what you want is to leave your 722 in Single Mode, use the pause button for the Nascar program and the SWAP button instead of the recall button. You would only need to make sure that you had your second tuner on the NFL game. When you swap back and forth you can just push the play button and you are watching the next frame from where you left off.

The way to do what you want is to leave your 722 in Single Mode, use the pause button for the Nascar program and the SWAP button instead of the recall button. You would only need to make sure that you had your second tuner on the NFL game. When you swap back and forth you can just push the play button and you are watching the next frame from where you left off.
Thanks! I'll give that a try next time!

Portia

The 722 is a nice unit for sure!

Two questions, though: Is it possible to make the unit turn on to a specific station every time you power up (or to start on a blank screen - helpful when you're recording programs you don't want to see in progress)?

and,

After watching a DVR program and deleting it, is there a way to keep the unit from switching to a live or currently recording feed? I record a lot of sporting events and hate to delete a previously recorded event only to have the one I've been recording for the last two hours show up as a live feed in the corner.

Yes, I know the guide could be changed to not show a video preview anytime you look at it or use the DVR menu, but I would like to have the preview screen up there most of the time, just not when I'm recording something.

Link to Dish website info:

http://tech.dishnetwork.com/departmental_content/TechPortal/content/tech/receiver/722.shtml

I am looking to upgrade my dish box to the 2 tv HD DVR box. Right now I just have the regular 2 tv or 2 room box, where one box contols the television in both rooms. So now I'm looking to get the HD DVR version of this box and I am wondering how does the HDTV signal get to the television in the 2nd room. I know that with my current box the 2nd television gets it signal via the rf cable connected to the rf antenna input. I cant see this working for the HDTV box, is there a a second HDMI or component output?

Topics merged.

I am looking to upgrade my dish box to the 2 tv HD DVR box. Right now I just have the regular 2 tv or 2 room box, where one box contols the television in both rooms. So now I'm looking to get the HD DVR version of this box and I am wondering how does the HDTV signal get to the television in the 2nd room. I know that with my current box the 2nd television gets it signal via the rf cable connected to the rf antenna input. I cant see this working for the HDTV box, is there a a second HDMI or component output?

Uh-never mind, upon closer look, it seems that only tv1 is hd capable.

Yeah TV is the only HD tv allowed on the box. But I wonder if they could employ what the ZvBox does. It puts a computer monitor's output on a QAM channel that can be accessed by any HD tv with a HD Tuner. I am sure there is some hardware and software consideration but it would be interesting if Dish could add this to a HD box.

as a former Dish subscriber, I have yet to see a better DVR than Dish's, that's for sure.

I'd say as a former Tivo Series 2 subscriber that the Tivo interface is a bit cleaner. I think the features are about the same. Now compared to my cable DVR, oh man its like seeing Blu Ray after VHS.

I like that with the Dish DVR you can group shows together. Seeing the recordings by day and also being able to see the ones they skip is nice if you happen to miss an episode for some reason and want to record the re-run in addition to the timer already set up.

Yeah TV is the only HD tv allowed on the box. But I wonder if they could employ what the ZvBox does. It puts a computer monitor's output on a QAM channel that can be accessed by any HD tv with a HD Tuner. I am sure there is some hardware and software consideration but it would be interesting if Dish could add this to a HD box.

They could put out a 8VSB signal then any digital OTA reception capable TV could get the HD signal. But then of course you would be able to record the output and Hollywood would not like that...

Rick R

any way to transfer HD content from DVR to PC?

any way to transfer HD content from DVR to PC?

nope

nope

Unless you have a component-based HD video capture card. It would not be a bit-copy, but it would still be HD.

Ted

Yes. That is what I have done. I scan and 0 channels come up.


The first time I scanned I thought it came up with zero channels, but realized I was too impatient. When I did it again I walked away and it takes a few minutes to scan all the channels. If it goes thru all the channels and you are getting nothing then yes there must be something wrong with the box.

We've had Directv service for about a year now, got it when we went HD. We were loyal Tivo users when we were using the Cox Cable SD service, but their HD offerings were meager in comparison to Directv. My only complaint is the monthly cost of Directv...about $130 (I was orignally quoted about $100 then got backdoored at installation for extra lease fees, etc., which I didn't discover until I got my first bill), but that's for EVERYTHING accept the Espanol package. Also, what I miss the most is my Pioneer DVR/DVD burner unit with Tivo built in that allowed me to burn programs recorded on the DVR by Tivo directly on to a DVD-R. I've read in this thread about the superior HD-DVR's offered by Dish; I especially like the USB port that will accomodate an external HD. I'm considering paying the early cancellation fee to Directv (we've got another year left on our contract) to switch to Dish as it appears we could save ourselves some money every month and probably break even. And the packages both offer, especially for EVERYTHING but the Spanish channels, seem pretty much the same. I guess the clincher for me would be if the Dish HD-DVR's USB port that accomodate's an external HD will allow me to transfer programs to my PC then burn them to a DVD-R. I've read here that you cannot watch programs from an external HD on a PC, but what about burning them to a DVD-R to watch on a DVD player? Thanks.

We've had Directv service for about a year now, got it when we went HD. We were loyal Tivo users when we were using the Cox Cable SD service, but their HD offerings were meager in comparison to Directv. My only complaint is the monthly cost of Directv...about $130 (I was orignally quoted about $100 then got backdoored at installation for extra lease fees, etc., which I didn't discover until I got my first bill), but that's for EVERYTHING accept the Espanol package. Also, what I miss the most is my Pioneer DVR/DVD burner unit with Tivo built in that allowed me to burn programs recorded on the DVR by Tivo directly on to a DVD-R. I've read in this thread about the superior HD-DVR's offered by Dish; I especially like the USB port that will accomodate an external HD. I'm considering paying the early cancellation fee to Directv (we've got another year left on our contract) to switch to Dish as it appears we could save ourselves some money every month and probably break even. And the packages both offer, especially for EVERYTHING but the Spanish channels, seem pretty much the same. I guess the clincher for me would be if the Dish HD-DVR's USB port that accomodate's an external HD will allow me to transfer programs to my PC then burn them to a DVD-R. I've read here that you cannot watch programs from an external HD on a PC, but what about burning them to a DVD-R to watch on a DVD player? Thanks.

Given that Tivo software is coming soon to DirecTV DVRs, you might want to wait. If you have a hard disk based DVR Recorder, you can record shows from Dish DVRs. You can do this with DirecTV DVRs as well though. I really like my Dish DVRs, but I am not sure I would end a contract early just to get one.

Ted

Thanks for the quick reply, Ted. Question: When you say "hard disk based DVR recorder," are you talking about an additional unit, like a Series 2 Tivo, that will allow me to connect to and record shows off my Directv DVR? I'm confused...I want to BURN recorded programs onto a DVD-R blank disc. How does what you're telling me help me do that?

Thanks.
Byron

Ps. Tivo software on Directv DVRs...really!

Thanks for the quick reply, Ted. Question: When you say "hard disk based DVR recorder," are you talking about an additional unit, like a Series 2 Tivo, that will allow me to connect to and record shows off my Directv DVR? I'm confused...I want to BURN recorded programs onto a DVD-R blank disc. How does what you're telling me help me do that?

Thanks.
Byron

Ps. Tivo software on Directv DVRs...really!

There are DVR Recorders from companies like Panasonic, Polaroid, Philips, etc. that have hard disks built in, so you can edit the recording before you commit (burn) it to disc. This is useful for removing commercials, etc.

Looks here for more information: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=106

For the Tivo on Directv topic, see here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1062861

Ted

Thanks again Ted. Guess I'll stick with Directv for a while longer. Any idea how soon that Tivo software will become standard in the Directv HD-DVR?

Thanks again Ted. Guess I'll stick with Directv for a while longer. Any idea how soon that Tivo software will become standard in the Directv HD-DVR?

Tivo will be optional. They will probably make it more of a premium service where they can charge more $. The D* DVR is the standard one which will be the undercutting product.

Thanks again Ted. Guess I'll stick with Directv for a while longer. Any idea how soon that Tivo software will become standard in the Directv HD-DVR?

The running joke about any new feature in a cable/satellite DVR is "soon."

;)

Ted

Just checking... Is this box now able to pass-through HD channels in their native broadcast resolution or is output still fixed to a single resolution choice?

Just checking... Is this box now able to pass-through HD channels in their native broadcast resolution or is output still fixed to a single resolution choice?

No native passthrough yet

I'm about to pull the trigger on the TurboHD package and drop D*. Dish just announced Local HDs in my DMA. D* has been promising me for 2 years that I was getting it soon.

Here is my question:

I have three TVs. I have an HD TV, and two SD TVs. I'm going to get the VIP722 HD DVR and hook up one of the SD TVs with the RCA outputs. I've read some bits of info here that some folks use a distribution module to split the RCA output to several SD TVs. I'd like to do this. What type of distribution module do I need, and can I get it from monoprice? If I go this route, I assume both SD TVs will have to watch the same program? Also, can you get a 2nd UHF remote for the other SD TV anywhere?

EDIT: One additional question. Does the Dish installer run the RCA cables to the SD TV, or is that up to the subscriber? If up to me, that's fine as I'll just run three RG-6 Coax Cables (already have two to that TV) and buy some Coax-RCA ends. If the Installers do it, how nice of a job do they do? Do they run the cables in the wall and put an RCA wall plate behind the TV, or is it a 'dirty' job?

EDIT2: Forget the last question as I see an Agile Modulated Coax Output is used, so I assume they hook RCA out of the DVR to this modulator that splits it to Coax to send to the SD TV, which is good. So, my only question is out of that Modulator, how is everyone splitting it to take the signal to several SD TVs? Can you use a normal splitter, or another type of distribution module? Is it something you can get from Dish, or if not, as mentioned earlier, can you get it from monoprice?

I'm about to pull the trigger on the TurboHD package and drop D*. Dish just announced Local HDs in my DMA. D* has been promising me for 2 years that I was getting it soon.

Here is my question:

I have three TVs. I have an HD TV, and two SD TVs. I'm going to get the VIP722 HD DVR and hook up one of the SD TVs with the RCA outputs. I've read some bits of info here that some folks use a distribution module to split the RCA output to several SD TVs. I'd like to do this. What type of distribution module do I need, and can I get it from monoprice? If I go this route, I assume both SD TVs will have to watch the same program? Also, can you get a 2nd UHF remote for the other SD TV anywhere?

EDIT: One additional question. Does the Dish installer run the RCA cables to the SD TV, or is that up to the subscriber? If up to me, that's fine as I'll just run three RG-6 Coax Cables (already have two to that TV) and buy some Coax-RCA ends. If the Installers do it, how nice of a job do they do? Do they run the cables in the wall and put an RCA wall plate behind the TV, or is it a 'dirty' job?

EDIT2: Forget the last question as I see an Agile Modulated Coax Output is used, so I assume they hook RCA out of the DVR to this modulator that splits it to Coax to send to the SD TV, which is good. So, my only question is out of that Modulator, how is everyone splitting it to take the signal to several SD TVs? Can you use a normal splitter, or another type of distribution module? Is it something you can get from Dish, or if not, as mentioned earlier, can you get it from monoprice?

Anyone?

Tony,
Hopefully my response answers your question about signal splitting (can't answer the question about the remote). If you want to split an RCA signal there's two ways it can be done: passively and with a distribution amp.

Passive splitting results in a halving of your signal power level for each TV, that may not be the best way. Here is a site with an example passive splitter:

www.meritline.com/av-switcher-260.html

Distribution amplifiers compensate for that 1/2 half power loss. Depending on the cable run distance this is probably the better way to go. Here is one site with an example distribution amp:

www.firefold.com/RCA-4-Way-Audio-Video-Distribution-Amplifier-P3543.aspx?afid=7

Its a four way amp. But since its an "active" device that won't matter if you use it with just two TVs. I'd stay clear of a 4 way passive splitter though because the signal arriving at your TV would now be 1/4 of the original signal strength.

Ideally (if $$$ was no object) you would have an RF power meter or spectrum analyzer and measure the 722 output signal level and measure it at each of the splitted outputs (either passive or active) and then again at the plug just in front of your TV. Then compare the level with the input level specs of the TV as well as determine the line loss. But that's getting down into the world of geekdom details. LOL

Hope this helps.

Tony,
Hopefully my response answers your question about signal splitting (can't answer the question about the remote). If you want to split an RCA signal there's two ways it can be done: passively and with a distribution amp.

Passive splitting results in a halving of your signal power level for each TV, that may not be the best way. Here is a site with an example passive splitter:

www.meritline.com/av-switcher-260.html

Distribution amplifiers compensate for that 1/2 half power loss. Depending on the cable run distance this is probably the better way to go. Here is one site with an example distribution amp:

www.firefold.com/RCA-4-Way-Audio-Video-Distribution-Amplifier-P3543.aspx?afid=7

Its a four way amp. But since its an "active" device that won't matter if you use it with just two TVs. I'd stay clear of a 4 way passive splitter though because the signal arriving at your TV would now be 1/4 of the original signal strength.

Ideally (if $$$ was no object) you would have an RF power meter or spectrum analyzer and measure the 722 output signal level and measure it at each of the splitted outputs (either passive or active) and then again at the plug just in front of your TV. Then compare the level with the input level specs of the TV as well as determine the line loss. But that's getting down into the world of geekdom details. LOL

Hope this helps.

Thank you. Big help!!!

Are there any pictures out there showing how the 2nd TV is connected to the 722? From what it appears on the Dish site, they hook up the 2nd TV utilizing the RCA connections on the back of the 722 labeled TV2. However, my neighbor had his installed, and he has Two Coax Cables out of the 722 into something that looks like a splitter (2 to 1). One Coax out of that splitter to another 2 to 1 splitter. Then, another Coax from a THIRD output of the 722 (dark, and couldn't read what that was for) into that same 2 to 1 Splitter. Then, one Coax from that 2nd splitter to the 2nd TV.

When does the RCA connections on the back of the 722 come into play? Is it an Either/Or choice for the Installer to use when running the 2nd TV from the 722? I'd assume that the RCA output would produce a better picture than the Modulated signals over the Coax, but don't know for sure.

Are there any pictures out there showing how the 2nd TV is connected to the 722? From what it appears on the Dish site, they hook up the 2nd TV utilizing the RCA connections on the back of the 722 labeled TV2. However, my neighbor had his installed, and he has Two Coax Cables out of the 722 into something that looks like a splitter (2 to 1). One Coax out of that splitter to another 2 to 1 splitter. Then, another Coax from a THIRD output of the 722 (dark, and couldn't read what that was for) into that same 2 to 1 Splitter. Then, one Coax from that 2nd splitter to the 2nd TV.

When does the RCA connections on the back of the 722 come into play? Is it an Either/Or choice for the Installer to use when running the 2nd TV from the 722? I'd assume that the RCA output would produce a better picture than the Modulated signals over the Coax, but don't know for sure.

TV2 is coax only.

TV2 is coax only.

Thanks.

TV2 is coax only.

Thanks.

And therefore not an HD signal.....

And therefore not an HD signal.....

Understand that. Just curious what the RCA outputs are for listed under TV2. I didn't know until last night that it was a single coax to location 2. I had thought it was RCA.

Understand that. Just curious what the RCA outputs are for listed under TV2. I didn't know until last night that it was a single coax to location 2. I had thought it was RCA.

Doing a little research on this, it would appear that the there is an RCA alternative. The connections on the back of the 722 specifically show RCA outputs for both TV1 and TV2, separately. The user's guide doesn't really refer to this at all that I can see. They are there, however. Does anyone out there have their TV2 hooked up via the RCA outputs on TV2?

I agree with Bobby. Looking at the figure on Page 21 of the User Guide (Chapter 2), TV 2 has an RCA output. According to the guide its SD only. However, if one has an outside antenna hooked directly to TV2, you should be able to receive HD Over the air.

The In-Home Distribution port looks like its just a "bypass" of the DVR. I suppose if you had another HD receiver (like another 722) in front of your TV2, then you could connect it to that. Still, I say that with a certain degree of uncertainty. It seems when you go to the Dish Website and the page that carries the User Manual. There is no Chapter 12. This is the chapter that talks about connections (check out the TOC). How odd is that?

Does anyone have a User guide with a Chapter 12? If so can you shed any light on connectivity options?

I agree with Bobby. Looking at the figure on Page 21 of the User Guide (Chapter 2), TV 2 has an RCA output. According to the guide its SD only. However, if one has an outside antenna hooked directly to TV2, you should be able to receive HD Over the air.

The In-Home Distribution port looks like its just a "bypass" of the DVR. I suppose if you had another HD receiver (like another 722) in front of your TV2, then you could connect it to that. Still, I say that with a certain degree of uncertainty. It seems when you go to the Dish Website and the page that carries the User Manual. There is no Chapter 12. This is the chapter that talks about connections (check out the TOC). How odd is that?

Does anyone have a User guide with a Chapter 12? If so can you shed any light on connectivity options?

The Home Distribution output is the SD coax output for TV1 or TV2. It lets you send those signals to any other TV in the house and is normally how TV2 is connected.

The RCA output for TV2 is not discussed in Chp 12, but I'd assume it just sends the TV2 output as the box says. I've never connected my TV to that output.

So, how would one hook up TV2 so that the SD TV2 would share the DVR recordings and be able to record shows? My neighbor just got his, but said his daughter's TV (TV2-SD) could record, but she didn't have access to what he recorded from TV1, and vice versa. That made no sense to me. I'd think either TV would have access to view the recordings that originated from TV1 or TV2.

So, how would one hook up TV2 so that the SD TV2 would share the DVR recordings and be able to record shows? My neighbor just got his, but said his daughter's TV (TV2-SD) could record, but she didn't have access to what he recorded from TV1, and vice versa. That made no sense to me. I'd think either TV would have access to view the recordings that originated from TV1 or TV2.

Connect via the coax (Home Distribution Output).

You are right in that not making sense. You either see Dish channels and the DVR or not and have access to all recordings, so not sure what your neighbor is talking about.

So, how would one hook up TV2 so that the SD TV2 would share the DVR recordings and be able to record shows? My neighbor just got his, but said his daughter's TV (TV2-SD) could record, but she didn't have access to what he recorded from TV1, and vice versa. That made no sense to me. I'd think either TV would have access to view the recordings that originated from TV1 or TV2.

TV2 can be hooked up via coax or composite. Composite will give you a better picture quality than coax. I'm using composite on my daughter's tv from my 622(same receiver, smaller hard drive).
I have a 622 and a 722 and can access all recordings from either tv so I believe your neighbor is confused somehow.

The only thing you cannot access directly from TV2 is the OTA tuner, unless its currently recording a program, then you can. ALL recordings are available to both TV1 and 2.

They even enabled you to view the External HD from TV2 if you have one.

I'm currently an analog cable subscriber. I also use an antenna to pull the local digitals over UHF. (most are HD) I feed both the cable and OTA into my TiVo HD. Now apparently Dish is offering locals for 5 extra dollars a month. Does this mean they will actually be broadcasting these through the satellite? I'm in the Gainesville, FL area so my closest NBC affiliate is 80 miles away (until Jan 1 when we'll get our own) Will Dish just give me the same one the cableco does?

If I can record two local channels (whether from OTA or through the dish) at the same time, I'll sign up tomorrow. Or... is that 5 dollars just for guide data.

Either way, I'll probably miss my almost brand new TiVo HD....

You have to check thier website to see exactly what locals they braodcast over Dish for you. They will most likely all be in SD but maybe not all HD. I don't get ABC or CW through the dish but I get all the others. You do get guide data and the OTA tuner acts as the third tuner. So I can record any of the locals I get OTA along with 2 Dish channels. You can also opt to use the OTA signal over the Dish signal if need. Say, for instance, I wanted to record 3 channels and one of those is NBC. I get that through Dish but I can use the OTA feed to free up a Dish tuner. I hope that made sense. Anyway go to the Dish website and see if your locals are provided and which ones are in HD.

You have to check thier website to see exactly what locals they braodcast over Dish for you. They will most likely all be in SD but maybe not all HD. I don't get ABC or CW through the dish but I get all the others. You do get guide data and the OTA tuner acts as the third tuner. So I can record any of the locals I get OTA along with 2 Dish channels. You can also opt to use the OTA signal over the Dish signal if need. Say, for instance, I wanted to record 3 channels and one of those is NBC. I get that through Dish but I can use the OTA feed to free up a Dish tuner. I hope that made sense. Anyway go to the Dish website and see if your locals are provided and which ones are in HD.

Well as it turns out, they do not offer NBC here... and they won't give me a the same feed the cable company carries because congress said that is wrong. Apparently there is a 3rd party company that somehow offers it for 5 bucks a month. (A guy that I work with buys it from a different company)

The irony is, we'll have NBC locally starting Jan 1st... I can't understand why they can't just offer me WNBC out of New York just for that month....

Well as it turns out, they do not offer NBC here... and they won't give me a the same feed the cable company carries because congress said that is wrong. Apparently there is a 3rd party company that somehow offers it for 5 bucks a month. (A guy that I work with buys it from a different company)

The irony is, we'll have NBC locally starting Jan 1st... I can't understand why they can't just offer me WNBC out of New York just for that month....

Because, as you have found out, the FCC won't let them offer you out of area networks. January 1st is 40 days away, the networks will soon be going to their holiday programming, you can live with it, or not.

Just to let you know, having an NBC network channel in your area at the beginning of the new year does not necessarily mean that Dish will carry it. first they have to have an agreement with the station.

Because, as you have found out, the FCC won't let them offer you out of area networks. January 1st is 40 days away, the networks will soon be going to their holiday programming, you can live with it, or not.

Where can I read more about this? (the reasoning behind the FCC decision... it HAS to make sense to somebody)

Just to let you know, having an NBC network channel in your area at the beginning of the new year does not necessarily mean that Dish will carry it. first they have to have an agreement with the station.

Right, but since I'm not too far from the transmitter, I will be able to pull it just fine with a rooftop VHF antenna. My current UHF pulls all the other locals beautifully.

Where can I read more about this? (the reasoning behind the FCC decision... it HAS to make sense to somebody)





Try here, it will give you a bit of an idea: http://www.boucher.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=902&Itemid=77&bsb_midx=-1

Try here, it will give you a bit of an idea: http://www.boucher.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=902&Itemid=77&bsb_midx=-1

Thank you very much. I've been googling for all the info I can gather about this. Mostly only information about D* trying to pull the rug out from under E*, but I did read a petition and an interesting letter from a senator that helped me piece together why this "could" be detrimental to the networks.

In my mind I think I had classified it as, "We don't WANT people from Florida to see a signal from Atlanta... we don't care if the TV show is the same, they might forget to skip a commercial and then we'd REALLY be screwed if they saw a commercial for an Atlanta car lot or grocery store..." (yes, I know I tend to lace things with a load of sarcasm.) Let's make a FEDERAL law to preclude such a heinous crime!

I have been doing a bit of research into Distant Network availability and apparently I can receive the Atlanta feed from AllAmericanDirect. Does anyone have experience with them? Is it an HD feed?

Hi guys,

Me and my wife are enjoying our new 46ZP800u Panny for a week now. Hooked up the BD35k today, dropped in WALL-E (have an 8 year old - what can I say:)) and the picture was outstanding.

I do have a question for anybody with a DISH-Vip722 receiver though. I have my output resolution set to 1080i and the incoming signal to the Panny is great. Today I was playing with my settings and changed it to 720p.

Not sure if my mind and eyes were playing tricks on me but I thought that the HD picture was much better - somehow crisper.

Is this just my imagination?

Hi guys,

Me and my wife are enjoying our new 46ZP800u Panny for a week now. Hooked up the BD35k today, dropped in WALL-E (have an 8 year old - what can I say:)) and the picture was outstanding.

I do have a question for anybody with a DISH-Vip722 receiver though. I have my output resolution set to 1080i and the incoming signal to the Panny is great. Today I was playing with my settings and changed it to 720p.

Not sure if my mind and eyes were playing tricks on me but I thought that the HD picture was much better - somehow crisper.

Is this just my imagination?

It probably depends on the channel. 1080i channels probably look better with the 722 set to 1080i while 720p channels look better on the 720p setting. Unfortunately the 722 does not have a native pass-through mode, so some of your channels are going to have to be up- or down-converted. I would just go with whatever looks best to you.

Ted

It also depends on your displays native display format. If your TV displays 720p natively and you are watching a channel that is 720p them outputing to the display in 1080i means a conversion
720p->1080i->720p
This of course will degrade your picture.

Rick R

I have 2 HDTVs connected to my VIP722. Here's how I connected the 2nd HDTV: I connect the HDMI cable from the VIP722 to a 'Gefen HDMI CAT-5 Extreme'. The Gefen device has a sender unit and a receiver unit with 2 CAT-5 cables strung between them. Another HDMI cable connects the Gefen receiver unit and the 2nd HDTV. The CAT-5 cables can be up to 200 feet long. With the VIP722 in 'Single Mode', I have the full HD resolution and functionality at TV2 using the UHF remote. This sure beats the SD resolution and snowy picture that you get from the composite coax connection. I have found only 2 downsides to this arrangement. Unless you install an HDMI splitter, you have to manually switch the HDMI output to either TV1 or the Gefen unit for use with TV2. A splitter would enable you to use both TVs at the same time. And then there is the cost of the Gefen unit: MSRP of $499. Most likely you could find it available from a Gefen dealer for considerably less than this.

I have 2 HDTVs connected to my VIP722. Here's how I connected the 2nd HDTV: I connect the HDMI cable from the VIP722 to a 'Gefen HDMI CAT-5 Extreme'. The Gefen device has a sender unit and a receiver unit with 2 CAT-5 cables strung between them. Another HDMI cable connects the Gefen receiver unit and the 2nd HDTV. The CAT-5 cables can be up to 200 feet long. With the VIP722 in 'Single Mode', I have the full HD resolution and functionality at TV2 using the UHF remote. This sure beats the SD resolution and snowy picture that you get from the composite coax connection. I have found only 2 downsides to this arrangement. Unless you install an HDMI splitter, you have to manually switch the HDMI output to either TV1 or the Gefen unit for use with TV2. A splitter would enable you to use both TVs at the same time. And then there is the cost of the Gefen unit: MSRP of $499. Most likely you could find it available from a Gefen dealer for considerably less than this.

And the biggest downside is you have to watch the same thing on both TVs.

Did you know you can run HDMI to one TV and component to the other and do just what you did, with no HDMI slitter needed?

Got a quick question I'm hoping someone in here can help me with, even though it is actually about the Dish VIP622.

I was at a friends house last weekend going over their setup and trying to get it set up better. They have their VIP622 hooked up through their AVR using component video and optical audio, and then output the component video to the TV. They asked me if there was a way to watch satellite without using their AVR for late at night etc when they didn't want to bother with it. I figured this would be as easy as hooking up the HDMI output of the VIP622 straight into the TVs HDMI input, but I can't seem to get it to work. Does the VIP622 output component video and HDMI video at the same time or is it only one or the other? Do I need to reset the box, or do something to turn on the HDMI output?

Thanks.

Got a quick question I'm hoping someone in here can help me with, even though it is actually about the Dish VIP622.

I was at a friends house last weekend going over their setup and trying to get it set up better. They have their VIP622 hooked up through their AVR using component video and optical audio, and then output the component video to the TV. They asked me if there was a way to watch satellite without using their AVR for late at night etc when they didn't want to bother with it. I figured this would be as easy as hooking up the HDMI output of the VIP622 straight into the TVs HDMI input, but I can't seem to get it to work. Does the VIP622 output component video and HDMI video at the same time or is it only one or the other? Do I need to reset the box, or do something to turn on the HDMI output?

Thanks.

Yes, the 622 outputs HDMI and component at the same time. But there have been issues with the HDMI outputs/connectors going bad and not working so it's possible that is your issue.

Thanks a lot, I'll have to check that out next time I am there. I assume unplugging the sat receiver and plugging in the HDMI cable to a TV input I know works, then plugging in the sat receiver again would be the best way to test

Got a quick question I'm hoping someone in here can help me with, even though it is actually about the Dish VIP622.

I was at a friends house last weekend going over their setup and trying to get it set up better. They have their VIP622 hooked up through their AVR using component video and optical audio, and then output the component video to the TV. They asked me if there was a way to watch satellite without using their AVR for late at night etc when they didn't want to bother with it. I figured this would be as easy as hooking up the HDMI output of the VIP622 straight into the TVs HDMI input, but I can't seem to get it to work. Does the VIP622 output component video and HDMI video at the same time or is it only one or the other? Do I need to reset the box, or do something to turn on the HDMI output?

Thanks.
Since you didn't mention it, did you select the HDMI input on the TV?

And the biggest downside is you have to watch the same thing on both TVs.

Did you know you can run HDMI to one TV and component to the other and do just what you did, with no HDMI slitter needed?
Yes, I knew that I could run component video to the remote TV, but it is unclear to me whether the component video would be of pristine quality at up to 200 feet away, and then there is the problem of getting 5.1 audio to the remote TV location. Both of these considerations are satisfied by using the HDMI extender.

Yes, I knew that I could run component video to the remote TV, but it is unclear to me whether the component video would be of pristine quality at up to 200 feet away, and then there is the problem of getting 5.1 audio to the remote TV location. Both of these considerations are satisfied by using the HDMI extender.


Run HDMI to the remote TV like you have and then component video and optical audio to the near TV.

Run HDMI to the remote TV like you have and then component video and optical audio to the near TV.
Hmm... That would eliminate the need for an HDMI splitter, wouldn't it. But would the optical connection carry 5.1 audio to my TV1 A/V receiver?

Hmm... That would eliminate the need for an HDMI splitter, wouldn't it. But would the optical connection carry 5.1 audio to my TV1 A/V receiver?

Yep it would. And yep it would. :)

Since you didn't mention it, did you select the HDMI input on the TV?

I tried to select it, but it would not go to the input (it is an older Sony XBR SXRD TV one of the ones with the green blob problem which they are in the process of getting fixed). Since it skipped the input I assumed that the HDMI didn't have any signal so it was skipping it. I guess I should have tried on the other HDMI 7 input that I know worked though. I couldn't find any other way to switch the TV inputs other than scrolling through them with the input next button, which skipped over HDMI 6.

Next time I get there I will have to look at it closer.

Does anyone have a ViP722 or ViP622 connected to a Slingbox? If so, please send me a PM. I'm looking for high-quality screenshots to illustrate the differences between that product and the DTVPal DVR.

I currently subscribe to comcast for all HD cable and broadband internet.

I want to get the turboHD package from Dish with the ViP722 DVR.

I cannot get OTA ATSC channels because of my location.

I still want to get internet from comcast. If I get the limited cable package, comcast's pricing scheme basically makes it free.

Also, i'd then get all the locals that dish can't get.

Is it possible for me to demodulate the QAM signals on the comcast limited cable package using a set top box QAM tuner like the Samsung DTB-H260F, then patch that signal to the Antenna-In on the ViP722, thus having my comcast limited cable channels show up in the guide of the ViP722?

I currently subscribe to comcast for all HD cable and broadband internet.

I want to get the turboHD package from Dish with the ViP722 DVR.

I cannot get OTA ATSC channels because of my location.

I still want to get internet from comcast. If I get the limited cable package, comcast's pricing scheme basically makes it free.

Also, i'd then get all the locals that dish can't get.

Is it possible for me to demodulate the QAM signals on the comcast limited cable package using a set top box QAM tuner like the Samsung DTB-H260F, then patch that signal to the Antenna-In on the ViP722, thus having my comcast limited cable channels show up in the guide of the ViP722?

Well, if you can modulate the channels back to ATSC, some channels *might* show up in the guide, but there would be no guide data unless you subscribe to locals. The 722 expects ATSC, so that is definitely a requirement, and I cannot tell if the Samsung box you mentioned does that.

Ted

Well, if you can modulate the channels back to ATSC, some channels *might* show up in the guide, but there would be no guide data unless you subscribe to locals. The 722 expects ATSC, so that is definitely a requirement, and I cannot tell if the Samsung box you mentioned does that.

Ted
Any idea on any boxes that would modulate back to ATSC?

I searched this thread and did not find a direct comparison of 622 and 722. I apologize if this has been discussed before:

What is the difference, besides larger hard drive, between the 622 and the 722?

Can the 622 use an external drive (for a onetime fee), thereby neutralizing this difference?

Any other difference, like in upscaling of SD channels?

I am currently using 625 in dual mode. I just bought an HDTV (Samsung HL61A750) and need HD DVR upgrade from Dish. They will give me a 622 for free. 722 costs $125 onetime. Is it worth it?

I searched this thread and did not find a direct comparison of 622 and 722. I apologize if this has been discussed before:

What is the difference, besides larger hard drive, between the 622 and the 722?

Can the 622 use an external drive (for a onetime fee), thereby neutralizing this difference?

Any other difference, like in upscaling of SD channels?

I am currently using 625 in dual mode. I just bought an HDTV (Samsung HL61A750) and need HD DVR upgrade from Dish. They will give me a 622 for free. 722 costs $125 onetime. Is it worth it?

The 622 has a smaller hard drive and it is silver. The 722 is black. Other than that, they are functionally the same box. I have one of each. They are both compatible with the external hard drive. If you are using HDMI, some have complained that the 622 has problems, but I had the exact opposite experience, so YMMV.

Ted

What audio does this box pass over HDMI? Will it pass the Dolby Digital signal for the HD channels?

What audio does this box pass over HDMI? Will it pass the Dolby Digital signal for the HD channels?

Yes....

On my Dish 722, I get pixelation on the National Geographic Channel HD every few minutes. By pixelation, I mean a momentary pattern of small opaque squares randomly located on the screen. I am trying to determine whether the problem is in my equipment or in the Dish Network system. I would like to hear back from other Dish 722 subscribers as to whether they also are experiencing this problem, especially on the NatGeo Channel.

I do not get breakup that often. Perhaps once an hour at most. I have seen some compression artifacts on that channel during fast motion. Do you by chance live near an airport? Planes can cause multi-pathing.

Ted

I do not get breakup that often. Perhaps once an hour at most. I have seen some compression artifacts on that channel during fast motion. Do you by chance live near an airport? Planes can cause multi-pathing.

Ted
Thanks for your reply. No, I don't live near an airport. Most of the pixelation that I get is in high-motion areas, so I presume that the source of the problem could be over-compression by Dish, but I'm trying to determine if the problem is with my equipment/set-up or within the Dish Network system, so please keep the replies coming in. If this is a Dish Network problem, we will all benefit if we can get them to fix it.

Thanks for your reply. No, I don't live near an airport. Most of the pixelation that I get is in high-motion areas, so I presume that the source of the problem could be over-compression by Dish, but I'm trying to determine if the problem is with my equipment/set-up or within the Dish Network system, so please keep the replies coming in. If this is a Dish Network problem, we will all benefit if we can get them to fix it.

Is NatGeo the only channel you see this on? I also get compression artifacts on MGM, and UniversalHD at times.

Ted

There are compression artifacts on every channel, just depends on the content and your viewing distance.

But if you are seeing picture break-ups or dropouts, then that is a different issue.

Is NatGeo the only channel you see this on? I also get compression artifacts on MGM, and UniversalHD at times.

Ted
NatGeo-HD is where I get most of the compression artifacts, but I get a few on some of the other channels, most notably Science Channel-HD. There are some channels such as HDNET where I never have this problem. I can only recall one movie where I had artifacts on MGM-HD, and on that occasion they were severe. In that instance they may have been caused by someone walking in front of the satellite dish which is mounted near ground level.

There are compression artifacts on every channel, just depends on the content and your viewing distance.

But if you are seeing picture break-ups or dropouts, then that is a different issue.
The breakups/dropouts occur only when someone walks in front of the satellite dish. I'm speaking of momentary pixelation, usually in high-motion areas of the screen which are easily noticeable when viewed from any distance from the screen.

If anyone else is having this problem with a 722 DVR, please reply so we can achieve a consensus as to whether this a problem within the Dish Network system.

The breakups/dropouts occur only when someone walks in front of the satellite dish. I'm speaking of momentary pixelation, usually in high-motion areas of the screen which are easily noticeable when viewed from any distance from the screen.

If anyone else is having this problem with a 722 DVR, please reply so we can achieve a consensus as to whether this a problem within the Dish Network system.


Momemtary pixilation in high motion are is a compression artifact. Could be at the source, or Dish (most likely) or both. Nothing you can do to fix it unfortunately.

But you said can see it at any distance, so you may have something different. Can you post a picture?

Does the 722 have a QAM tuner in it?

If I connect my local cable to it's antenna input, will it be able to tune into unscrambled HD re-broadcasts of my local channels in HD? My TV can. What about the 722?

The local channels are not HD (yet) on Dish :(

Does the 722 have a QAM tuner in it?

If I connect my local cable to it's antenna input, will it be able to tune into unscrambled HD re-broadcasts of my local channels in HD? My TV can. What about the 722?

The local channels are not HD (yet) on Dish :(

no QUAM tuner

Does the 722 have a QAM tuner in it?

If I connect my local cable to it's antenna input, will it be able to tune into unscrambled HD re-broadcasts of my local channels in HD? My TV can. What about the 722?

The local channels are not HD (yet) on Dish :(

No, there are no QAM tuners in the 722, or any other satellite boxes for that matter.

Momemtary pixilation in high motion are is a compression artifact. Could be at the source, or Dish (most likely) or both. Nothing you can do to fix it unfortunately.

But you said can see it at any distance, so you may have something different. Can you post a picture?
No, I can't post a picture because: 1) I would have to snap a picture of the screen with a digital camera and that would be difficult because the pixelation has a duration of only about a half second on average. 2) I do not know how to post a picture to this forum.
Learning how to do the latter without being able to do the former would not get the job done.
However, here is a better description of the pixelation: On a 50" screen the artifacts typically appear as opaque 1" squares of random colors, scattered at random locations, but clustered near high-motion areas. When I say that it can be seen from any distance, I mean it can be seen from any distance that a 1" square can be seen.

No, I can't post a picture because: 1) I would have to snap a picture of the screen with a digital camera and that would be difficult because the pixelation has a duration of only about a half second on average. 2) I do not know how to post a picture to this forum.
Learning how to do the latter without being able to do the former would not get the job done.
However, here is a better description of the pixelation: On a 50" screen the artifacts typically appear as opaque 1" squares of random colors, scattered at random locations, but clustered near high-motion areas. When I say that it can be seen from any distance, I mean it can be seen from any distance that a 1" square can be seen.

This sounds like picture breakup/dropout because of low signal.

Earlier you mentioned in only happens when someone walks in front of the satellite dish, which also points to signal dropping out. Where is your dish such that someone is walking in front of it?

This sounds like picture breakup/dropout because of low signal.

This happens much more on the NatGeo-HD channel than on any other channel, so wouldn't that indicate that it's being transmitted that way by Dish Network? It seems to me that a weak signal would affect all the channels equally.
When someone walks in front of the satellite dish, the whole picture breaks up, I get an error message that part of the program is missing, and the program resumes after they have cleared the satellite dish.

This happens much more on the NatGeo-HD channel than on any other channel, so wouldn't that indicate that it's being transmitted that way by Dish Network? It seems to me that a weak signal would affect all the channels equally.
When someone walks in front of the satellite dish, the whole picture breaks up, I get an error message that part of the program is missing, and the program resumes after they have cleared the satellite dish.

Different channels are on different satellites, and each satellite has different transponders. So most likely not all channels are affected.

This happens much more on the NatGeo-HD channel than on any other channel, so wouldn't that indicate that it's being transmitted that way by Dish Network? It seems to me that a weak signal would affect all the channels equally.
When someone walks in front of the satellite dish, the whole picture breaks up, I get an error message that part of the program is missing, and the program resumes after they have cleared the satellite dish.

Do you know what kind of dish setup you have? That will tell me what satellite you are getting that channel from and whether it is different from mine.

My NatGeo comes from a wing dish off the bird at 61.5°. Many other people get their HD channels from the horrible satellite at 129.0°.

Ted

Do you know what kind of dish setup you have? That will tell me what satellite you are getting that channel from and whether it is different from mine.

My NatGeo comes from a wing dish off the bird at 61.5°. Many other people get their HD channels from the horrible satellite at 129.0°.

Ted
My system info says that I use satellites 119, 110, & 129. I am not sure what info you are asking about regarding my dish. I can tell you that it is nearly circular, but slightly elliptical and has 3 receiving nubs mounted on the arm at its center of focus.

My system info says that I use satellites 119, 110, & 129. I am not sure what info you are asking about regarding my dish. I can tell you that it is nearly circular, but slightly elliptical and has 3 receiving nubs mounted on the arm at its center of focus.

NatGeo HD is on TP30 of the 129 satellite. This sat is one of the most troublesome ones they have in the fleet and has signal strength issues. It is at the end of its life cycle and is in the process of being replaced, hopefully the new sat will arrive in proper orbit and channels will be coming from it within the next month. Hopefully that will help your issues.

For reference, other HD channels on TP30 are

NHLNet, FoodNetwork, HGTV, ESPN2, NFLNet

So check and see if you have issues on those channels, which if it is a signal dropout issue you should.

Is there any way to transfer a recorded show to a Blue Ray disc (if I have a BD writer) or an AVCHD disk on DVR+R media?

Any way to transfer a recorded show to my PC?

Is there any way to transfer a recorded show to a Blue Ray disc (if I have a BD writer) or an AVCHD disk on DVR+R media?

Any way to transfer a recorded show to my PC?

No, only to an external harddrive plugged into the box. And that caopy is encrypted and not viewable by anything else.

Is there any way to transfer a recorded show to a Blue Ray disc (if I have a BD writer) or an AVCHD disk on DVR+R media?

Any way to transfer a recorded show to my PC?

The only way to get content out of a Dish DVR is to hook the output up to a video capture device such as a DVD Recorder or video capture card.

Ted

NatGeo HD is on TP30 of the 129 satellite. This sat is one of the most troublesome ones they have in the fleet and has signal strength issues. It is at the end of its life cycle and is in the process of being replaced, hopefully the new sat will arrive in proper orbit and channels will be coming from it within the next month. Hopefully that will help your issues.

For reference, other HD channels on TP30 are

NHLNet, FoodNetwork, HGTV, ESPN2, NFLNet

So check and see if you have issues on those channels, which if it is a signal dropout issue you should.

Yep. When Ciel-2 takes over at 129, things should get better.

Ted

NatGeo HD is on TP30 of the 129 satellite. This sat is one of the most troublesome ones they have in the fleet and has signal strength issues. It is at the end of its life cycle and is in the process of being replaced, hopefully the new sat will arrive in proper orbit and channels will be coming from it within the next month. Hopefully that will help your issues.

For reference, other HD channels on TP30 are

NHLNet, FoodNetwork, HGTV, ESPN2, NFLNet

So check and see if you have issues on those channels, which if it is a signal dropout issue you should.
This sounds like it could alas be the answer to the puzzle. Thanks for the info. I have never looked at those other channels that you mentioned, but I will now and will report back on what I find.

Is there any way to transfer a recorded show to a Blue Ray disc (if I have a BD writer) or an AVCHD disk on DVR+R media?

Any way to transfer a recorded show to my PC?

According to the posts that I have been reading here at AVS, many have been having good results with the Hauppauge HDPVR-1212. To use this device, you hook up a video component connection and a SPDIF optical audio connection from the 722 DVR to the 1212 and then a USB connection from the 1212 to your computer.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1055232&page=19
http://www.hauppauge.com/site/products/data_hdpvr.html

According to the posts that I have been reading here at AVS, many have been having good results with the Hauppauge HDPVR-1212. To use this device, you hook up a video component connection and a SPDIF optical audio connection from the 722 DVR to the 1212 and then a USB connection from the 1212 to your computer.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1055232&page=19
http://www.hauppauge.com/site/products/data_hdpvr.html

So, basically, I have to play back the program on the 722 and capture it again on a video capture device ...

Even Sony's DVD recorder VRD-MC5 should work in that mode.

I want to add my DVD player to the device controlled by the Dish remote. How do I add this?

The installer typically presses some buttons until the device he is adding to the remote (like my TV) turns on/off. What is that magic sequence of keys?

So, basically, I have to play back the program on the 722 and capture it again on a video capture device ...

Even Sony's DVD recorder VRD-MC5 should work in that mode.
I doubt that your Sony recorder would work directly connected to the 1212. You need to have software running on a PC in order to capture and record the stream coming from the USB port of the 1212. The Hauppauge website discusses all this.
This is not a trivial task. If it were me, I would look at least twice before leaping.

I want to add my DVD player to the device controlled by the Dish remote. How do I add this?

The installer typically presses some buttons until the device he is adding to the remote (like my TV) turns on/off. What is that magic sequence of keys?
See Section 10, page 75 of the 722 User's Guide: Controlling Other Components.

How can I make sure that the 722 is not upconverting SD channels?

This is advised in http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15654863#post15654863

"For those of you complaining about SD picture quality.....

Make sure that your source (cable box or sat receiver) is not upconverting the SD signal.

My Motorola HD cable box was upconverting ALL signals to 1080i and they did not look good on my set. I went into the service menu (on the cable box)and locked the SD output resolution to 480i. The TV does a much better job of upconverting than my cable box did. My SD picture quality is much better now."

How can I set the 722 to output HD channels at 1080i and SD channels at 480i?

I have connected the 722 to my Samsung HL61A750 by HDMI 1.3 cable.

Thanks.

How can I make sure that the 722 is not upconverting SD channels?

This is advised in http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15654863#post15654863


How can I set the 722 to output HD channels at 1080i and SD channels at 480i?

I have connected the 722 to my Samsung HL61A750 by HDMI 1.3 cable.

Thanks.

You can't. The box only supports selecting one output resolution at a time. So to watch SD without upconverting you need to manually go change the resolution to 480i.