Which SKY Digital STB

[MikeK]

Apologies if this has been asked before, but after the ITV Digital fiasco, I'm now looking at getting Sky. Trouble is I know very little about each of the boxes available at the mo (or even what boxes are actually available now). I think I need a bit of help, please!!
I know there used to be arguments about 16bit vs32bit, speed of menus, freezing/locking, but I've really lost touch over the last couple of years.

So, what's the general feeling about which STB is best (mainly for piccy)

I'm not interested in Sky+ (too expensive at the mo), but I would be particularly interested if any of the "normal" STBs have either S-video output or Digital audio out (even if it is just PCM and not DD)


Thanks

 

[Starburst]

Some of the Grundigs have s-video and only the Sony has an optical audio output.
If you buy direct from SKY you do not get a choice of digibox, you can ask but a particular model but you'll get what the installer has in his van on the day. Going to an independent installer will give you more choice but can entail paying a premium.
As far as I am aware SONY no longer supply SKY with digiboxes for subsidised installations although they are still for sale at full price in SONY stores.

As for picture quality then unless someone has had all five manufacturers latest models running off the same dish and onto the same TV it will be hard to make a comparison. I've got no complaints with the picture quality from my Pace 2200 or SKY+.

I think the general opinion is that Panasonic turn out the best models atm.