Is an HD decoder worth it?

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paulcrill

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Hi all

Just wondering if it's worth it getting an HD decoder? I've heard it's full of bugs etc, and that a new model is coming out soon (non-Pace) Will that make a difference?

Also, does the HD decoder upscale the picture on non-hd channels to the signal is a bit better? On a large lcd screen, some of the channels look pretty crappy.

Thanks in advance for any advice.
 
I'd say wait for new model. And more channels to be honest!

The sad fact of the matter is that Multichoice do a really bad job of STB (set-top box) software.

It's not the fault of the hardware. Their bloatware is the cause of all the frustration for HD subscribers.

I'll stick to SD DSTV a while longer :D
 
This one has been covered, UEC is going to release a HD decoder, maybe sometime in Sept 09. It will not replace the Pace decoder, they will both do the same job. Problem with the bugs is the software for multichoice, both decoders will run the same software. So if it is not sorted out, the UEC decoder will have the same problems as the Pace.

I reccomend getting hold of a SD PVR (hard to find now as they have been discontinued). Then later get the HD PVR when the bugs are gone !

As for the crappy quality on some channels, if I remember correctly, they scale down the quality on "non-premium" content due to bandwidth restrictions.
 
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I would wait for a while still.

I bought the HD PVR last year - I absolutly hate it. Plenty Plenty Bugs.

Biggest waste of money ever!!!!
 
LOL

Can I come and contradict everyone?

I would say go for it. watching a movie in HD with 5.1 makes one tend to forget about the bugs. The positives far out way the negatives for me
 
If you watch a lot of TV and have an SDPVR now then rather wait cos it will drive you mad. But if you just have normal decoder then go for it, it will be an improvement and will get better when new software is released

To answer your other questions:
As others have said, the new HDPVR will have the same bugs as it will use the same software
SD channels look the same but if you are currently using a RF connection then they will look better via HDMI
 
Also looking into the HD PVR...have the 1110 decoder...and missing a lot of shows...so mostly want the PVR for recoding. Pitty about the SD PVR not being sold anymore...Checked this website...they say not to get the HD PVR...just not worth it. Now Im more confused :(

Please note: There are many more issues that are not being logged due to frustration at the lack of progress as well as posts continually being deleted by the "moderators" on the DStv forums. It is strongly recommended that you do not purchase this defective product.
Click to expand...

http://hd-pvr.pbwiki.com/
 
Just bought the HD PVR, had a really old decoder so quite a marked difference when watching HD and all the other channels through my 42" LCD. At least everyone doesn't look short and fat anymore cos the aspect ratio has been sorted. Still a bit pricey I may add! Especially as so few channels, if waiting a couple months ain't gonna kill you, then would give it some time.
 
I was thinking about getting a HD PVR but now I am not so sure I want to fork out all that money for something that is going to be full of bugs. Think I will stick to a normal decoder for now. Pity the SD PVR is no longer available.
 
Would you guys mind giving us an idea of the bugs there are currently? Got SD but considering HD. Father in law has it, and movies on HD are excellent. Just wondering what the major issues are? Thx
 
I have to say, I enjoy my hd decoder. Sure the bugs in the software is also driving me insane, but when you switch on to channel 170...aaaaaaah pure bliss, its an eye opener the quality you get, just wish they would stop showing the same previews of shows comming to pvr LAST YEAR
 
avdp said:
Would you guys mind giving us an idea of the bugs there are currently? Got SD but considering HD. Father in law has it, and movies on HD are excellent. Just wondering what the major issues are? Thx
Click to expand...
Just use the HDPVR to watch the HD channel, use your SDPVR for the rest until better software is out

My main 2 issues with it are failed recordings (only on HD channel) & the slow response times
 
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