Tivo Expensive!! any alternatives?

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meremaiden

134 posts

Master Geek

#47375 11-Nov-2009 09:58

Hi just wondering if anyone has any ideas about Tivo alternatives, like a DIY version....
Basically all I really want (pausing live tv isnt much of an issue) is a place to watch shows downloaded off my computer-- I dont even really feel the need to record TV as most of whatever will be aired is available online.
Anyone have any suggestions (cheaper than Tivo)?

We have freeview and a very basic TV.

thanks in advance!

xpd

Geek @ Coastguard NZ
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#271946 11-Nov-2009 10:01

Err... an HTPC ?
Xbox with modchip running XBMC ? (Mine might be up for sale in new year)
Digistar Freeview box ? ($120 odd from Trademe)
Its a media player youre after from what youve said about watching shows downloaded from your PC.....

Gavin / xpd / FastRaccoon / Geek of Coastguard New Zealand

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meremaiden

134 posts

Master Geek

#271947 11-Nov-2009 10:04

Thank you!

wellygary

8312 posts

Uber Geek

#271948 11-Nov-2009 10:05

Find a cheap PC, network it, stick it next to your Telly, connect it, and boom you have a way of showing your downloaded content on you big screen...

There is a whole section in GZ on HTPCs ( Home theatre PCs)

http://www.geekzone.co.nz/forums.asp?forumid=84

rossmnz

507 posts

Ultimate Geek

#271968 11-Nov-2009 10:55

One of the easiest ways of doing this is getting an uber cheap dvd player with USB port(i picked one up for like $30 at Harvey norman) and copy whatever media you want to the usb stick and then play via dvd player.

Costs next to nothing. just ensure you get one that plays divx etc and you are all good. Obviously it is not as good as an HTPC and mine is sorta superceded since i stream everything using ps3 media server now but i digress.

The force is strong with this one!

davidcole

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#272033 11-Nov-2009 13:37

If all you want is a playback device you might be better suited with an WD TV (or the 2nd version which is ethernet connected), or a popcorn hour, or the egreat.

Since personally I think at $900 the Tivo is quite competitive for a twin tuning harddrive recorder (+ the added ondemand content is a telecom customer).

I think a pc to do similar might be heading towards the same figure when you factor in around $220 for the tuners, another $100 - $200 for video, + case, PSU, Mobo, CPU etc...

But as for the OP I'd recommend either a cheap computer with a fairly good h.264 capable video card and then you'd just have to male the decision on remote or keybaord/mouse etc.

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meremaiden

134 posts

Master Geek

#272037 11-Nov-2009 13:54

WDTV looks great-- exactly what I am looking for.. Thank you all for the great replies!