TiVo - is it worth buying one in 2019??

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lannykaster

64 posts

Master Geek

#255509 15-Aug-2019 11:16

Hey guys

I saw a box in an op shop today, with all it's accessories etc but no manual and they were wanting $40 for it.

But I've seen various posts on here over the last few years, saying how their recorders are often faulty etc.

If I were to get one, or one from TradeMe, and plug it in... Would it be ready to go, or would it be "dead"??

nicmair

250 posts

Master Geek
+1 received by user: 40

#2299709 15-Aug-2019 11:49

unless it's been "mod'ed" (to allow it to connect to the new Aus servers) then it's a paperweight. It can be mod'ed for (about) $50 and when done, they are still the best (IMHO) PVR out there. I have two both going strong.

jonathan18

7415 posts

Uber Geek
+1 received by user: 2850

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#2299711 15-Aug-2019 11:49

Hi there,

I suggest you search Geekzone for other threads on TiVos, specifically those related to the mod that's required to allow them to access an alternative programme guide (TiVo shut down its one a couple of years ago, I think it was) without that, they're pretty much limited to VCR-like recording (time/channel etc). That's going to cost you, so you're probably better to buy one that's already been modified, or find someone giving them away (for example, I have two sitting unused; I'd rather that they were being used, even if I need to give them away).

There sure have been issues with the hard drives in them (with many being replaced under warranty for this failure), and given their relatively small capacity many have elected to upgrade capacity anyway. But overall they're actually a pretty good device; easy to use, with an interface that other mainstream recorders (Panasonic, DishTV) haven't been able to replicate.

I think more and more people simply can't be bothered with recorders, given so much of the same content can be got directly from VOD, especially in this case Freeview On Demand (or the separate apps etc). We have an older Magic TV that I've pulled out of the cupboard, but I think I've turned it on twice in the past few months, and not actually used it to record anything. Given this trend, you may find brands of recorders other than TiVo are also pretty cheap these days.

lannykaster

64 posts

Master Geek

#2299722 15-Aug-2019 12:09

thanks for your advice guys

i think ill leave it at the Op Shop, then. Probably more hassle than its worth :(

i do feel bad though if someone DOES end up buying it, taking home and then seeing it's "dead"..... that's not a good feeling :(

oldbusdriver

45 posts

Geek
+1 received by user: 3

#2301914 19-Aug-2019 19:43

OTOH if you live in Christchurch, I have 5 tested, running as good as ever Tivos looking for good home.

I can deliver, help you set up and all. Otherwise these orphans are going to waste.......

oldbusdriver

ilovemusic

1469 posts

Uber Geek
+1 received by user: 307

#2302373 20-Aug-2019 13:59

waste of time buying one.

there's nothing worth recording off the air.

most shows you can find online in better quality.