Star Choice PVR - Need feedback

[JBR]

I'm actively looking at upgrading my current Star Choice HD box to a PVR HD Box. I've also looked at Shaw and Bell as alternatives. Does anybody out there have a Star Choice DSR530 PVR box? If so, have you been happy with it or do you suggest going with Shaw or Bell?

Thanks..

[photon]

http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=11

Would be a good place for lots of info.

[fanforever1986]

If you go to futureshop, bestbuy, etc....you can sit and actually use the systems yourself and decide which you like best. From a programming standpoint, Bell offers something in a league of its own (especially in HD). Shaw and Starchoice you'll find have virtually the same HD line up, as they get there signal from the same satillite. I can't speak for the cost of starchoice but I do know bell is around $20 more a month compared to Shaw, but it all depends on what package you get. My suggestion is you fall back in love with TV and go with Bell. They offer free install, and show you how to use the system. Don't let Bell horror stories scare you away, from a percentage of costumers viewpoint, they're no worse than any other provider.

[if.away]

Originally Posted by JBR

I'm actively looking at upgrading my current Star Choice HD box to a PVR HD Box. I've also looked at Shaw and Bell as alternatives. Does anybody out there have a Star Choice DSR530 PVR box? If so, have you been happy with it or do you suggest going with Shaw or Bell?

Thanks..

The DSR530s(and all the other DSRs) are about to be upgraded in about 2 months max. This means that the whole interface and functionality of the IPG will get a huge improvement. Right now, Starchoice's customers have a "Blue" IPG that looks, feels and acts horribly slow compared to the new "Black and yellow" IPG. What I'm saying is that if you were to make a decision you might want to wait a little bit more to see how the new IPG functions because it frankly looks like a brand new product.

[JBR]

Thanks for the advice. I'll wait until the spring. When calling Star Choice, they also mentioned this would happen but couldn't estimate a date. It should be soon, as it is becoming increasingly difficult to find a DSR 530 to buy at retailers or even from Star Choice.

[AvengeR]

The DVR 530 sold like hotcakes last month because they had a 250 programming credit that went along with it. They are sold out at the Star Choice warehouse right now, but they will get more at the end of the month.

And yes, the new IPG looks and works much better than the current one. I work at Star Choice and there is a DSR 505 in the lobby with the new IPG and I've played with it a bunch.

[JBR]

Any insider information as to when the new boxes will be introduced?

[AvengeR]

The next new receiver to be intruduced will be the DSR 207. Nothing new with the 500 series receivers except for the IPG update.