[derb]

I have come across a number of alternative PVRs for Freesat via Maplin (summarised here in a spreadsheet I put together - any additional facts would be welcomed) but all I ever read about online is the Humax which is the only "official" Freesat DVR offering. Does anyone have experience of using any of the alternative ones?

[derb]

Originally Posted by Geofbob

Your list doesn't compare like with like, and mixes up Freesat (received via satellite dish) with Freeview (received via terrestrial aerial), and receivers with recorders. The Topfield in your spreadsheet is a Freeview PVR; the machines below the Humax are all Free-to-Air satellite receivers.

Each of these pieces of equipment has its own pros & cons, but none of them can be truly compared with the Humax Freesat recorder, which for the present at least is a one of its kind.

Can you explain, then, what the principal difference is between a satellite receiver that can receive free channels and record them and a Freesat branded one that does the same? Are there any Freesat channels that are not viewable by other free to air receivers?

[Andy98765]

A Freesat branded box will have a fully functioning EPG unlike others.
For all things Freesat look here Join Freesat

[Geofbob]

Originally Posted by derb

Can you explain, then, what the principal difference is between a satellite receiver that can receive free channels and record them and a Freesat branded one that does the same? Are there any Freesat channels that are not viewable by other free to air receivers?

Sorry, I deleted my response when I realised that the Topfield in your list was not the Freeview PVR I had in mind - but your post crossed with my deletion! I'm afraid I know nothing about this machine, but note that it doesn't use the word Freesat in its description. Presumably, therefore, it does not receive the Freesat EPG, but as you say should be able to receive most Freesat channels.

On the face of it, it does appear to be some sort of rival to the Humax - hopefully, someone else can enlighten us both.

[derb]

The EPG does seem to be a potential difference however it's not clear what "fully functional" means in this context. For example it appears Maplin's Passion+ receiver has a 7 day EPG. But that might only be a *potential* 7 day EPG. It also does not seem to record programmes automatically - instead you have to record by time. But that's why I want to find out more from people who might have bought one of these!

[Geofbob]

Derb, you're in the wrong forum if you want to know more about the Passion receiver. Here is a dedicated forum - Fortec Star Passion HD Satellite Receiver - any good?

In fact, I think you'll find that the Passion's EPG has recently been upgraded to full 7-day - unlike my poor Fortec Star 4300 which still has only "Now & Next", but is still good fun.