Here is a much more meaningful comparison for all of you to chew on.
The real departure is that it is the first PVR decoder released by MC that cannot distribute RF directly, which for some is just unacceptable. It requires an external RF remodulator to truly be a replacement for the earlier models.
The 3A is less power hungry than the previous decoders.
The LMX 502Z LNB ( Low Noise Block downconverter) does NOT have any universal ports on it and MC have been very secretive about its "hidden" capabilities. Generally, you require a special FSM to set it up, hence why they harp on the use of an installer. There is however a way to get it to default to a Universal LNB for line up with an older FSM. It has only two ports and can only support two decoders in what is now called "UniView" (UV).
Further, the 3A decoder may also require an external diplexer IF it is purchased as a replacement in an existing "XtraView" (XV) installation.
It was also the first decoder to introduce the so-called "Installation Wizard" for initial setup, that comes with its own set of issues. The older Explora models and the 4- and 5-series HD decoders also now have this rather clumsy "Installation Wizard" installed.
While the 3A supports "relay commands" through the Unicable port, neither the SLNB models nor the 24-1Z switch allows the relay of remote commands for tvLINKS. Therefore, IF you want to replace an existing decoder in an existing installation, where remote control of the decoders is used, you have to "extract/insert" the relayed commands via an external diplexer, or change to remote blasters. In the end, an installation becomes far more "messy" with all these external bits and pieces and PSUs and cable clutter than the older decoders.
All in all, at the end of the day, a retrogressive move downwards in quality and reliability, despite the claims otherwise.
