I have a MCE pc '05 with Comcast basic cable(no digital) This works great but I want the Big 10 network and comcast hasn't signed a deal.

My choices are Direct TV or Dish.

Would either of these work easily with my HTPC?

Thanks!

For SD only -> YES!

You'd need to go from the STB to tuner card with svideo and then you'll need an IR blaster setup to control the STB from MCE. Channel switching will take longer. Picture should be fine. There is no cheap way to do HD.

-Brian

For SD only -> YES!

For HD too if you get your box modded with an R5000 mod.

Hence why I said CHEAP. Sorry, I consider the R5000 mod expensive.

I agree, it can be done, just not as cheaply as the SD only version.

HD is never as cheap as SD :D

yes... I know :)

Thanks guys, I am still up in the air of switching to a DVR from Direct or dish.

I love having the MCE for tv and watching other vids.