Antenna Television/OTA DVR
The following are options available for recording OTA content.
Wired Solutions
[edit | edit source]These solutions typically connect to your antenna and a power source before connecting directly to your TV. They allow you to record your shows either onto an internal hard drive or by attaching external storage via USB.
Mediasonic
[edit | edit source]One popular budget DVR solution is the Mediasonic HW-150PVR HomeWorx. It is known for its reliability and is even recognized as an Amazon's Choice product. This device offers basic functionality and is a straightforward option for recording TV shows.
The Mediasonic HW-150PVR connects to your antenna using a coaxial cable and provides output to your TV through HDMI, component, or coaxial connections, supporting both standard definition (SD) and high definition (HD) formats. It supports real-time recording as well as programmed time recording. The electronic program guide (EPG) data is limited and is typically provided by the broadcasters on a channel-by-channel basis. You can generally access the program guide only for the channel you are currently watching.
It's important to note that the Mediasonic HW-150PVR does not have built-in storage. To utilize its DVR functionality, you will need to purchase an external hard drive (up to 2TB supported) or a USB flash drive (up to 64GB supported) and connect it to the device. Additionally, this DVR has a single tuner, which means you can only watch or record a single channel at a time.
While these budget DVR units offer basic functionality, they can also be used as tuners for older analog TVs or to add an affordable tuner to TVs without built-in tuners. They can be particularly useful for TVs with no tuner (such as Vizio's new Google Cast models), projection screen setups, or TVs with broken coaxial cable connections.
iView Digital Converter Box
[edit | edit source]Another budget DVR option is the iView 3500STII, which operates similarly to the Mediasonic HW-150PVR. It is compatible with both older analog TVs and newer models supporting standard definition (SD) and high definition (HD). The iView 3500STII offers real-time and programmed recording capabilities, as well as the ability to display electronic program guide (EPG) data to help schedule recordings.
Once connected to an external hard drive or USB flash drive, the iView 3500STII can function as a DVR, allowing you to record and store TV shows. Additionally, it serves as a media player, enabling you to access and play video or music files from the external storage drive, even if they were not recorded through the iView. However, it's important to note that the iView 3500STII may not support the newest file types for video or audio, so it's advisable to review the list of supported file types on the manufacturer's website to ensure compatibility with your media library.
Alternatively, the iView 3200STB is a newer model and offers similar features to the iView 3500STII. However, there are a couple of notable differences. The iView 3200STB does not include a component output, whereas the iView 3500STII does. Additionally, the iView 3200STB comes with an antenna included in the box (though it can also work with other antennas), while the iView 3500STII requires a separate antenna to be purchased.
Ematic Digital Converter Box
[edit | edit source]The Ematic AT103B and Ematic AT102 are two additional low-cost DVR options that share similarities with the iView and Mediasonic models mentioned earlier. These DVRs offer a straightforward and budget-friendly solution with a range of features.
Like the previously mentioned DVRs, the Ematic AT103B and AT102 support real-time and programmed recording, provide the ability to display an electronic program guide (EPG), and are compatible with both standard definition (SD) and high definition (HD) formats. They also allow you to play old media files directly from a USB drive and offer the capability to record TV shows onto a USB drive.
These Ematic models are designed to be simple and functional DVR solutions without unnecessary complexity. While they may not have the most advanced features available in the market, they provide the basic functionality needed for recording and watching TV shows.
Wireless Solutions
[edit | edit source]TiVo Edge for Antenna
[edit | edit source]TiVo is a well-known brand that offers quality DVR solutions, though their OTA-compatible lineup of devices has undergone several changes. The TiVo Bolt, for instance, has evolved into the TiVo Bolt OTA and TiVo Bolt VOX. The TiVo Roamio, which was previously recommended, has been discontinued. Older models may still be available through TiVo's Renewal program or third-party sellers. When purchasing a used system, it's important to inquire about any subscription-based costs and whether the device includes a lifetime subscription.
The TiVo Edge for Antenna is a robust whole-home connected DVR system. After connecting it to your antenna, home internet, and optionally your TV, your DVR system will be ready to use. However, most TiVo options still require a subscription, either on a monthly or annual basis, or a more expensive lifetime purchase. As many cord-cutters are looking to reduce or eliminate monthly costs, I will not delve as deeply into the Edge as I will with other offerings. However, I will provide an overview for those willing to pay a higher recurring cost for a more feature-rich system.
The TiVo Edge offers a whole-home wireless experience once connected to the internet. It connects to your antenna, ideally to your first TV, and then to your home internet via either Wi-Fi or Ethernet. You can browse the programming catalog, schedule recordings, and watch TV using the remote control, iOS and Android apps, or your computer. This allows you to position the Edge near your antenna while still accessing your programming throughout your home via apps and internet browsers. The Edge also supports out-of-home streaming and allows for downloads to stream on your phone or tablet.
Key features of the TiVo Edge for Antenna include:
- Built-in 500 GB storage, which provides approximately 75 hours of recording capacity.
- Video output supports up to 4K UHD resolution.
- Two tuners, allowing you to watch and record multiple channels simultaneously.
- Out-of-home streaming capability, enabling you to access your DVR content when away from home.
- Downloads that allow you to stream recorded content on your mobile devices.
Tablo
[edit | edit source]Tablo is a network OTA tuner/DVR device that offers a unique approach to DVR functionality. Instead of connecting directly to a TV, Tablo connects to your home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet and streams content to any connected device within your home or anywhere with internet access. Tablo connects to your antenna using a coaxial cable and then to your router via Ethernet or Wi-Fi. The Wi-Fi connection provides flexibility in case your antenna and router are located in different areas of your home.Tablo uses its connection to your router to stream recordings and live TV over your local network and the internet, which makes it a "whole home DVR" solution. However, since Tablo doesn't have a direct output option, you need to access the Tablo TV app on your TV. This can be done through streaming devices (such as Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, Nvidia SHIELD), smart TVs, TV sticks (like Fire Stick, Roku, Chromecast), or gaming systems (like Xbox One). Check the Tablo website for an updated list of supported devices. You can also access Tablo TV via iOS or Android smartphones, tablets, or a computer using their web app, both at home and remotely. In the past, Tablo transcoded all audio to 2.0 stereo. However, new software updates now allow for 5.1 Dolby Surround Sound passthrough on supported devices, enhancing the audio experience. Video output can reach up to 1080p resolution.
Tablo offers several hardware DVR models to suit different needs:
- Tablo DUAL HDMI: This model plugs directly into your TV and provides up to two weeks of offline access to recorded and live shows. Note that internet access is required for initial setup and periodic updates.
- Tablo Quad HDMI: Similar to the DUAL HDMI but with four tuners for simultaneous recording and streaming.
- Tablo DUAL LITE: A "bring your own storage" 2-tuner DVR that allows you to connect your own external hard drive for storage.
- Tablo DUAL 128GB: A 2-tuner DVR with 80 hours of built-in HDTV storage.
- Tablo Quad OTA DVR: Another "bring your own storage" option, this time with four tuners.
- Tablo Quad 1TB DVR: A 4-tuner DVR that includes 1TB of built-in storage, providing approximately 700 hours of HDTV storage.
All Tablo models can also support up to 8TB of external storage, allowing you to expand the storage capacity with a separate external drive.
Optional Subscription: Tablo offers a guide data subscription that provides enhanced features, such as a 14-day program guide, series recording, and more. The subscription is tied to your account, not the device itself. If you upgrade or add another Tablo device, you can use the subscription across all of them under the same account.
ClearStream Wireless
[edit | edit source]The ClearStream Wireless TV Antenna Adapter Tuner is a device that allows you to turn any antenna into a wireless tuner and DVR. The ClearStream offers a 24-hour program guide, which provides you with information about upcoming shows and allows you to schedule recordings. It has one tuner, which means it can only stream to one device at a time. This limitation should be considered if you plan on streaming to multiple devices simultaneously.The ClearStream allows you to pause, rewind, and fast forward live TV for up to one hour. This feature gives you flexibility in controlling your viewing experience. When using the ClearStream app on your smartphone, tablet, or Smart TV, the TV content is recorded directly to the device running the app. The amount of DVR space available will depend on the storage capacity of the device itself.To set up the ClearStream, you attach it to your antenna and plug it into a power outlet. Then, you use the ClearStream app on your iOS, Android, or streaming device to connect your antenna to your home Wi-Fi network. The initial setup cannot be completed through a Roku device; you will need to use an Android or iOS app for that purpose. Once set up, you can stream or record OTA channels through the ClearStream app on your preferred device. ClearStream supports streaming via Roku devices. However, the initial setup of the ClearStream requires the use of an Android or iOS app. Once set up, you can stream content from the ClearStream to your Roku device.
AirTV
[edit | edit source]The AirTV brand offers several models for TV and DVR access to your antenna, including the AirTV, AirTV Player, and AirTV Anywhere.
- AirTV2: The AirTV2 is designed for whole-home TV and DVR access to your antenna. It allows you to connect your antenna directly to the AirTV device using a coaxial cable. The AirTV then connects to your home internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. After setting it up using the AirTV app or SlingTV app (no subscription required), you can access all your antenna channels through apps on various devices such as iOS, Android, Roku, FireTV, and more. The AirTV2 has two tuners, enabling you to watch on up to two devices simultaneously or record and watch at the same time.
- AirTV Player: The AirTV Player, along with the AirTV Tuner, is designed to be connected to your TV and antenna. It serves as a replacement for a Roku stick or other streaming devices, providing direct access to AirTV channels from your antenna. It also offers access to popular streaming apps like Netflix and SlingTV. The AirTV Player connects to your home Wi-Fi via Ethernet or internal Wi-Fi, and it is suitable for those who have at least one TV located near their antenna and want to avoid purchasing an additional smart TV or streaming device.
- AirTV Mini: The AirTV Mini is a compact device that connects directly to your TV via HDMI. It allows you to access programming from your AirTV, AirTV2, or AirTV Anywhere device. The AirTV Mini has built-in access to SlingTV and Chromecast, making it a convenient option for accessing your channels and streaming content from the connected device.
- AirTV Anywhere: The AirTV Anywhere offers a whole-home wireless DVR solution when combined with an antenna (up to four tuners) and SlingTV. It provides up to 1TB of DVR recording space, which is approximately 150 hours of recording. You can access the recorded content outside your home using a mobile app or stream it to other TVs within your home using the SlingTV app, AirTV Mini, AirTV Player, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, or Roku.
HDHomerun Scribe Duo/Quatro
[edit | edit source]The HDHomerun Scribe Duo and HDHomerun Scribe Quatro are whole-home DVR solutions that are similar to the Tablo device mentioned earlier. The Scribe Duo has two tuners, while the Scribe Quatro has four tuners. The Scribe Duo or Scribe Quatro is connected to your antenna, and then it is connected to your home's Wi-Fi router using an Ethernet cable. This setup allows you to access and record OTA (over-the-air) TV channels. You can use the free HDHomerun app to record and access your shows. The app is available on various smart devices. You will need to use a compatible smart device to watch your OTA TV channels. HDHomerun provides an up-to-date list of compatible devices on their website. You can check the website to ensure that your preferred smart device is supported. It's important to note that access to the DVR functionality via the HDHomerun app requires a subscription after the first year. The subscription cost may vary, so it's recommended to visit the HDHomerun website for the most up-to-date information regarding the subscription cost and requirements for ongoing DVR app service.
The HDHomerun Scribe devices, such as the HDVR-4US-1TB, are designed for use in the United States and Canada. They are compatible with the ATSC broadcast standard used in these regions.
Fire TV Recast
[edit | edit source]The Fire TV Recast is indeed an over-the-air DVR solution offered by Amazon. Here are some key features and requirements of the Fire TV Recast:
Recording Capacity: The Fire TV Recast is available in two versions. The first version has 2 tuners and a storage capacity of 500 GB, allowing for approximately 75 hours of recorded content. The second version has 4 tuners and a storage capacity of 1 TB, allowing for approximately 150 hours of recorded content.
Antenna and Streaming Device Requirement: To use the Fire TV Recast, you will need an antenna to receive over-the-air TV signals. Additionally, you will need a compatible Fire TV streaming media player (such as Fire TV Stick or Fire TV Cube) or an Echo Show device to access and watch the recorded content. The Fire TV Recast communicates with the streaming device or Echo Show over your home Wi-Fi network. The recorded content from the Fire TV Recast can be streamed to various devices. This includes the Fire TV app on Fire tablets (5th generation or above), iOS devices running iOS 10 or above, and Android devices running Android 4.4 or above. With the Fire TV Recast, you can schedule and record over-the-air TV shows and movies. It provides the ability to pause, rewind, and fast forward through the recorded content. You can also set up series recordings for your favorite shows. The Fire TV Recast includes a program guide that allows you to browse and schedule recordings. Additionally, it integrates with streaming services like Prime Video, Hulu, and more, allowing you to access streaming content alongside your over-the-air recordings.