Comcast set to roll out HDTV/DVR box

We've previously noted that Comcast was testing the PVR waters, but it looks like the rollout will soon be going full-force.

Comcast is saying that 90% of their customers (millions of people) will have access to this Motorola box by the end of next year, and this device will serve both HDTV and DVR functionality. The box looks like it can pause, rewind, and fast forward both regular TV and HDTV siganls, though recording appears to be confined to an analog MPEG encoder and I would assume DVR functionality will be limited to regular TV, not HDTV. The box has more outputs than I think anyone knows what to do with, so it'll be interesting to see how the hacking community takes to this box. It only has one tuner and records at one set compression level, so hopefully it'll be able to store signals digitally instead of having to recompress everything.

This could be another huge setback for TiVo's financial future, but the c|net article also mentions that Time Warner claims that video on demand will soon outpace what is possible with a DVR. While seeing a pay-per-view movie any time you want is nice, it stills seems silly to think people will prefer that over taping anything they want so they can watch later. [thanks pb]

update: David pointed out it does in fact record HDTV, though only a few hours can fit on its 80Gb drive. Here are the recording capacity specs:

Analog: 25 hrs
Digital TV: 30-60 hrs
HDTV: 8-10 hrs

another update: Time Warner is ready to release their own digital cable/HDTV box with DVR functionality.

yet another update: reports that shares of TiVo's stock fell several percentage points after Comcast's announcement.

Comments

[BillSaysThis]

Sadly, this Comcast customer isn't thrilled with the described feature set. One question: no where in the CNet article or Moto website does it say how many hours of recording time the included disk will hold, even though recording quality will be frozen. In fact, from the wording I'm not clear that I'll actually be able to record a show for later playback and whether or not this is separate from my settop box.

[Sean Devine]

I'm 95% sure that I have this model right now. I'm not at home, so I can't check the model number. But, it looks exactly the same...

Anyhow, this box is pretty nice. The HDTV receiver is great. "On Demand", their video on demand service, is pretty nice too. I still have a TiVo hooked up to an older digital cable box, but I have found that I use it less now that I have the new Motorola HDTV box.

Though I've been a reasonably happy TiVo customer more then 3 years, I can't imagine that they're going to weather this storm. They're at a tremendous disadvantage and the cable providers (like Comcast) are coming out with compelling offers. But, until they catch up, I'll keep forking over the $9.99/mo.

[Grey Satterfield]

A DVR that will not record HDTV programming would be a non-starter for me. Based on what I had seen earlier, it appeared that the new digital DVRs WOULD record HD signals. I just sprung for a $3,500 HDTV based on that assumption. But the initial post here indicates that the DVR Comcast is delivering won't do that. Does anyone know if it is going to be the policy of cable companies generally to prohibit recording of HDTV programming? I am a Cox customer and they are not yet providing a DVR in my market.

[David Chappelle]

Actually, if you read the watch the Motorola flash ad, it tells the capacity of the player. Apparently it uses analog MPEG only for those channels delivered by analog, 2-78 on my system. The digitally-delivered channels are stored in their native compression, like DirectTivo. And I assume HDTV signals are stored in a lossless format.

Analog: 25 hrs
Digital TV: 30-60 hrs
HDTV: 8-10 hrs

The unit has an 80 GB hard drive, like the current Tivos. The ad mentions you can record from the guide, no mention if you can also schedule repeating recordings. I doubt it has Tivo features like wish lists and recommended recordings.

I am a longtime Tivo'er, but if this lets me remove the hassle of IR channel changing and gives me HDTV recording, I'd have to check it out.

[BillSaysThis]

IR channel changing is a big problem for me but Season Pass, Suggests and Wishlists are great features that are old enough that I can see no reason to not include them (except that whoever paid for the software development was too cheap).

[Steve Wilhelm]

The DirecTV Tivo box has some two important features: season passes and dual tuners. Tivo has done a crummy job explaining the importance of these features. But once you have used them, you won't accept a DVR without them.

[Matt Haughey]

Yeah the lack of dual tuners does suck. I'm holding out for the DirecTiVo HDTV box that should come out in a few months, but this comcast box is pretty much the only option for my friends that live in apartments with no roof access to throw a dish up.

Oh, and I just heard the comcast boxes are rolling out in the Bay Area in the next month or so.

[Chris]

KCBS radio in the Bay Area reported yesterday (12/4/03) that Comcast would be offering the DVR to its customers "within a few weeks."

The source of this information was not cited, but it could have been the comments by Brian Roberts at the Western Show (as quoted in the CNet article). "This quarter" ends on 12/31/03-- which is less than 4 weeks from now.

[f7]

Umm no offense to the article's author, but sir you are uninformed. Video on demand is not JUST pay-per-view any time you want it. Its a way of getting a lot of your favorite programming ANY time you want it. Example if you subscirbe to HBO you have all of it's series and a lot of HBO run movies, any time you want it. Please do more research before you say something that's without merit.

[Matt Haughey]

Please do more research before you say something that's without merit.

Yeah sorry about that, I've only been hearing about the wonders of VOD for going on 12 years now without ever seeing it actually materialize, so excuse me for misinterpretting what cable company vaporware can do someday.

[Dwight Bechtel]

Vaporware?? Many of us have and are enjoying VOD today. Here in Philadelphia Comcast has provided it for at least a year. F7 is totally correct. There is a ton of programming at no additional cost. If one subscribes, as I do, to SHO and HBO, all of their movies are free on VOD. Likewise with their series like Six Feet Under, Carnivale, the Sopranos, Sex and the City, etc, etc. There is also tons of sports and other movies to choose from. I know I sound like a commercial, but I HAVE VOD, its NOT vaporware, and its awesome.

[Scott Cherkofsky]

As a Tivo user and as a Comcast HDTV converter owner (with Video On Demand) I can safely say that you are all nuts if you think VOD will replace Tivo.

As stated previously, Tivo's Season Pass and lack of restriction on what you can record is never going to get 'out-paced' by anything that doesn't allow the same features.

Comcast's VOD is nice but it doesn't remember where you were in the program if you stop viewing for any reason. The FFWD and RWD features are about as good as you might find on your VCR - terrible and with delays in actuation.

This feature also takes over your box - you cannot record something else while watching VOD. Its a nice to have but I'll never throw away my Tivo based on those features.

No, as with everyone else, I'd love an HDTV Tivo. Its the only thing that's kept DirectTV in my decision tree for my next upgrade.

[pb]

So how do I get this VOD on Comcast Digital (non-HD)?

If there's anything that's restrictive, it's Tivo's ridiculous policy on program extraction!

[Franklin Madison Jr]

Hey, this thing is sitting near my TV since June. Hmmmm, did not know it could do all of that.

[pd]

Does anyone know exactly when the HDTV Tivo is coming out?
The last report (a year ago) said it would be out before years end and this is definately years end with no hdtv in sight. The dish 921 is available now.

[RM]

What would you do?

I am moving into a new house and have the comcast / DirecTV / DISH network decision.

I was all set to purchase a combined DirecTV/Tivo unit, but I just saw HDTV at a friend's and I really want it. Who (will) have it all? Comcast looks interesting, and cheap, but the "normal" channels look like crap. The Dish is better, but then I need an AIR antennae for local HDTV broadcasts.

I currently have "std" DirecTV boxes. Can I install a dish that will support HDTV and use my current boxes until a combined uni tis avail? Will DirecTV offer local HDTV channels? In Atlanta we have multiple networks that broadcast in HDTV.

Thanks, and sorry for the long message.

[Matt Haughey]

RM, if you get a Triple LNB dish, it will work fine with standard directv for now, and will get HDTV signals whenever you upgrade your directv tuner.

[Mark]

The 5100 and the 6200 both have dual tuners :o)

We're in luck.

[Jim]

I own both ReplayTv and Tivo. Can't wait to try this new box. Any idea when it roll out in Chicago?

[John Scamp]

Hello,

I was reading the posts and I thought a few of the people here might be interested in a product I purchased. It is a combination PC and DVR/media content management system that serves as a centerpiece for any home entertainment system. I have been playing with it for about a month now and have been able to connect just about every electronic item I have purchased over the last 20 years to work it. It also does a fantastic job with new technologies such as HDTV. I highly rocommend it to anyone. You can see it at http://www.avpchome.com.

[jbelkin]

I didn't read through every email but here's the scoop so on the Comcast DVR:

$9.95 a month for the HD DVR. If you already have HD, you'll pay $4.95 more.

Dual tuner version coming in mid year.

Yes, it's essentially this Motorola except with a new HD.

Yes, you can record HD - right now, there's no real way to output to anything else unless you count the HD VCR and/or buying a high-end editing card for your computer.

Any HD copy-protected encoding is done by the network so whether they do it or not is un-known.

The DVI output is not enabled on the Motorola as of now but you do have YBR, S-video, RCA as choices.

In most Comcast SF Bay Area, you get HD - ABC, NBC, PBS, InHD1 &2, ESPN, HBO, Showtime with Cinemax in january and Starz by March - all included if you're a digital package subscriber (and HBO, Showtime, obviously). CBS still in negotiations - does not help that CBS is affliated with a couple dozen cable networks - Viacom. Fox, of course is not even broadcasting anything in HD.

REAL Video on Demand VOD coming very, very soon. Up to 1,000 choices a month - if you subscribe to HBO, Showtime, Cinemax & coming - Starz IS INCLUDED! (no exra cost - presuming you got a digital/HD box already. VOD is launched in Atlanta - coming to SF Bay Area in mid December/January.

New TV Guide/interactive controls coming in March & June - the ads are gone and much faster!

To get the best HD/CATV feed, you should use the YBR as one input and S0video or RCA's for non-HD input - that way, you don't have to switch between the two to get your preset pictures - YES, after you view HD, all other channels look like crap.

Dish HD DVR available for purchase - $999 receiver only.

DirecTV HD due out by end of Q1 - pending Murdoch purchase/TiVo contract issues.

Hope that helps.

[Chas]

When can I get my hands on a COMCAST HD DVR BOX in the Alexandria Virginia area?

-Me

[Jerome Nicholson]

I've had VOD for 3 months now and while it comes in handy for PPV movies and premium channel shows, it doesn't archive much else. No Sci-Fi, History or Discovery channels, no broadcast networks. And that's whwn the VOD is working! I will welcome Comcast's DVR when it comes next year. It won't replace my TiVo; it's paid for and I have a lifetime membership, so it will continue to record my shows on analog. But the Comcast DVR will make it much easier to record the digital channels. I know it's easier for dish owners, but I live in an apartment without a porch or balcony. If I wewen't a captive Comcast customer, I'd have droppod them years ago.

[Dan Palmer]

I am waiting for Comcast PVR to hit the Chicago area. The dual tuner issue is important. I have avoided Tivo and the rest because recording from the digital spectrum (where most of the things I want to record reside) is a serious pain. Plus (as far as I know) unless I have 2 set-top boxes I couldn't use a PVR to record one digital channel and watch another.

If the Comcast box doesn't allow me to do this (record from HBO and watch Turner Classic Movies for example) then the PVR capability has limited appeal.

[James Silvius]

This Comcast customer is very excited about the idea behind DVR. My biggest concern is price. As I don't do digial right now, but I do have cable internet and have thought about tivo, but I can't stomach the month cost. If Comcast can give it to me at less cost then Tivo I'd take it.

[Chris White]

Does anyone know if Comcast's new Motorola DVR has a 30 second skip button or do you just have to fast forward through commercials? I currently have a ReplayTV and consider the 30 second skip and 7 second rewind buttons essential features.

[Khaash]

I live in Montgomery County Maryland. I have Comcast HDTV box with OnDemand features. The PVR sounds interesting. I'll keep my ReplayTV active for the same reasons others have mentioned... one thing to correct... HDTV channels here include: CBS, NBC, ABC, PBS, HBO, MAX, SHO, TMC, STARZ, HDTV1, HDTV2, COMCAST SPORTS NET, ESPN, and FOX. Yes, Fox does have HD broadcasts, including sports. Perhaps not all areas of the country have the FOX option at this time... Also, I noticed that my ReplayTV, after downloading the channel guide, shows a channel reserved for UPNHD. They must still be working out the agreement...

[clif]

I just got the Comcast DVR box in DC. I basically wanted it for the HD recording capacity. Unfortunately, the DVR function doesn't work at all. A DVR option is supposed to come up when you hit MENU, but it doesn't. Live TV won't pause. Programs cannot be recorded from the guide. It's just a mess, but that's guaranteed when Motorola and Comcast are involved. They are supposedly replacing the box sometime this week.

[Phil]

Does anyone know when they are ever going to come out with a unit that is an HDTV receiver and a HD DVR all in one? And even better why not have a DVD-R in it? Am I just a dreamer? I hope not! Please any insight would be great!

[Buckey]

Does anyone know when DVI will be made available/active on the Comcast HD box?

[Derrick]

I just got my box last week and it does everything as promised. Pause, Rewind the last 15 seconds of anything. It has a one hour buffer of what show your watching. I am very pleased with mine.

[David]

Live in Montgomery County, Maryland with new Motorola box. You can record an HD, but have to do it from the DVR menu since the "Menu" button doesn't work on the HD channels. So here's the problem: when recording an HD channel, it's impossible to change the channel or stop the recording. You can't hit the "menu" button b/c it's on an HD channel and the stop or channel up/down doesn't work either. Good thing I'm only recording for .5 hour to just check it out. Sounds like a major bug. Any suggestions?

[Nichole]

I agree with David. THis is a MAJOR bug! I live in Prince George's County and my Comcast DVR has the same limited capabilities... you CANNOT turn the channel while recording whether its in HD or otherwise. This sucks. You also can't record two programs at the same time. Another drawback which puts TIVO at an obvious advantage. I've called Comcast to complain and the reps really don't know what's going on with that. I've noticed that these DVR capabilities are limited to certain service areas. Hopefully, mine is a test box that they'll use to make improvements on the future units. Any Comcast insiders with info on this?

[Allan]

Just got the Motorola box from Comcast. It will not record one show while you are watching another. I called Comcast and complained and they said that's what they ordered from Motorola.

[Greg]

I haven't got my comcast box yet. I am waiting to see if I want the new TIVO. I have both direcTV and Comcast today.

My point on the not being able to watch a show, while recording with the comcast box: Just split the cable signal going into the Comcast box, and then hook up your TV with the cable directly, and with either composite or component for the Comcast box. You can then switch the input to watch one channel, while recording the other. You cannot record two, but you can certainly watch while recording. Problem solved.

[Jerome Nicholson]

I picked up my Comcast PVR two weeks ago and so far, it does as expected. Like my TiVo, it can pause a live signal and do a chasing playback. Unlike TiVo, it can't tell a new episode of a show from a rerun or tell if the show has been moved. However it does record Comcast's digital channels without having to set a digital tuner; it has its own. So I returned one of my tuners to the cable office [that offsets the monthly fee] and removed a VCR [that saves some space in my system]. So far I haven't had to delete any shows to make room for new ones. Anything I want to save permanently I can download to one of the VCR's. They also solve the problem of recording multiple channels at one time, as the PVR doesn't do that. It also can't access the PPV feature, though the digital tuner I still have can. I wonder if this problem is with the unit or the Comcast signal?

[John Berk]

Purchased a Samsung DLP and had Comcast hookup the Motorola 5100. I have component connections for HD broadcasts and RCA hookups for non HD. When I flip between HD and non HD I have to use the TV remote and manually switch the input feed. Is there any way around this with the Samsung?

[Matt]

I think this DVR (richmond,va area) really bites! The interface is so disgustingly bland,flat,rigid, and extremely blue. It looks extremely similar to the guide when I first got digital cable a few years ago (before it became colorful and peach---but the ads are still huge). You have to set a show to record every time it comes on, there is nothing that will just record it every time it comes on (I don't think...if you know how to do this...tell me)
It doesn't give recommendations and you can't search for actors or directors.
You can watch a DVR Recording and record something else at the same time...but you can't record something and watch something on a different channel at the sametime without a cable splitter (explained in an earlier post). Now I see rumors of a better DVR being released this summer. I better be able to trade in this piece of junk for that---I shouldn't have to keep this one, if everyone who signs up then gets a much better one and pays the same price.

[Nichole]

I have a question regarding splitting the signal going to the cable box and the tv. It seems as if I'd have a problem watching my digital cable, including premium channels, if the signal was going straight to the tv. But, hey... at least I can watch the basic programming on channels 2-125.

[Dwight Bechtel]

Phil, what am I missing? thats what this whole thread is about. Comcast is rolling out a new digital HD/DVR cable box which is capable of recording HD on the DVR. It does not have a DVD recorder, but maybe that will be next.

[Rob]

I've getting a Comcast HD box tomorrow and am wondering if it will have a serial port to connect to my Tivo? Also, anyone know if it will have DVI?

[Hugh]

Just got 2 6208 sets and they work as marketed. i haven't had the problem others mentioned where they can't use the menu or change channel buttons while watching channels.

the Comcast user guide for the 6208 offers very poor info; but found the user guide PDF's on Motorola's DVR website to be much more useful. they have on the 6208 unit as well as the remote and a TV guide DVR user manual.

the wbelink is http://broadband.motorola.com/dvr/dct6208.asp

once on teh page og down to the bottom right for the links to the manuals

[fred leo]

It's highly possible I'm too stupid to figure this out, but my experience with Comcast and their HDTV is that I can't use my replaytv and lifetime subscription with it. They will not let me reprogram the box so I can use the replay guide and remote to change channels on the comcast box. Aside from that, they only had four channels of HDTV and they seemed to show up in different aspects on the tv, requiring tv adjustment with channel changing. Comcast refused to let me program the box to respond to my replaytv because, as they told me, they're coming out with their own pvr. Considering they're a cable monopoly in my area, you'd think there would be a law forcing them to support equipment other than their own. Guess not.

[Spotty]

Does anyone know when Comcast will release this box in the chicago area? I got the motorola box that doesn't record in order to get HD, and I love the HD, but I would love the record ability.

[elad]

I just got the new Motorola Comcast DVR box. It has lots of I/O ports (firewire, usb 1.0 1.2 2.0, video-in, audio-in, etc...) but guess what? NONE are active. Not even the front panel video/audio-in. My TV is a POS (coax-in only), I thought I could use the front panel rca-in instead of a RF converter to connect my x-box, I thought wrong.

Any way of making those work?

[me]

I just got the comcast motorola dvr. I actually hooked up a wifi usb stick to the front usb port and was able to "gain access" to the box! I forced my wifi router to only assign IP addresses b/w 192.168.2.2-192.168.2.6 (I have 3 computers and a network printer) so that the last IP address would have to go to the dvr box. Then I figured out what the IP addresses were for all my computers and my printer and the one that was left was the one for the dvr. So I typed in the IP address in my browser and I got a VERY large XML file. It contained a bunch of stuff that looked like account information for past users. The weird thing is that this is a brand new box. It showed accounts for stuff dating back to 1996 and had names of account reps., account numbers, order numbers, address information. It also had data about cookie and cake vendors. Vendors that sold services. It was very weird. Like a totally random file. I would really like to know how to "interface" with the dvr box in order to get the stuff I recorded off.

[Clint]

Does anyone know when this will be available in Reston, VA?

Also, if I get one on my own, will it work with Comcast service?

[K Fisher]

I just got my Motorola HDTV box with the PVR yesterday form Patriot Media Cable Co. in NJ. I never would have even known it was available, if my cable modem made a successful connection last week. I called to tell them about my modem problem, and while I was on hold, I heard one of their promos for HDTV. The cost for the box is the same that I was paying for DTV box. They give you three HD channels for free, but I opted for the HDTV Plus package, which has six more HD channels @ $9.95/month. The PVR adds another $9.95/month. Does anyone out there know what all the extra connections are going to be used for? It's got three USB connectors, one Ethernet port and two IEEE 1394 connections. There's also a "Smart Card" slot on the front panel as well as one of the USB ports. What I'd really like to know is if there's a way to download the movies that I record in HDTV to an external device for archiving? Has anyone gotten into one of these boxes yet? Thanks.

[elad]

Has anyone had any luck using all those additional I/O ports?

Like I said, I'd like to use the front panel RCA inputs to connect my videogame console. Also, I'd be nice to be able use firewire(IEEE 1394) to connect an external hard disk drive, 80 gigs is not that much, the box records in the higher resolution possible, it fills up way too fast.

To accesses the box DIAGNOSTICS:
With the box ON, quickly press POWER followed by SELECT, with the remote or front panel buttons.

In the d11 menu (Interface Status) is shows that the firewire and USB devices are indeed installed. In the d05 menu (Unit Address) it shows MAC addresses for the ports/devices, maybe someone that knows what theyre doing will be able to address the ports.

[K Fisher]

I've recently ordered a DVD Recorder that has component inputs, as well as outputs. My first experiment will be hook to cable box's component outputs directly th o the DVDR's inputs. I won't be too surprised if something is built into the DVDR to defeat this signal. If that is the case my next move will be to move on to the Firewire connections. The DVDR has a Firewire input on the front panel designed to take the output directly from a digital video camera. They even describe it as a port for would-be film makers to make direct digital master copies of their movies from their high-end video equipment. I'll be sure to let everyone know how both of these ideas pan out. If anyone out there has any advice, I'd be most appreciative. Thanks.

[J C]

So I am in the Comcast Chicago market and already have the standard digital cable with set top box. Is there a way I can get HD without getting the HD box from Comcast? Maybe buy the HD box from elsewhere, but will it work with the Comcast digital cable box I have?

[LMR]

Comcast HDTV-PVR is now available in Los Angeles. I just ordered my via a tip from the operator. I was just ordering regular digital cable and he told me to wait a few days and ask for it on. I called and sure enough it was available. They told me that they were not going to advertise it until mid June due to the demand. I get mine on Saturday... I cannot wait.

[Chris]

I was hoping to find an answer to this question also...

Does anyone know if Comcast's new Motorola DVR has a 30 second skip button or do you just have to fast forward through commercials?

[BCN]

The GI DVR comcast is rolling out will NOT have 30 second skip function, I'm an employee and have used the box.

[smith]

30 second skip

i herd that the box is capable of the 30 second skip however the cable company has the option to disable the feature so not to upset advertisers. Does anyone know how to override this feature?

[Dennis]

I live in Dallas, TX and had the HD calbe box for serveral months, then was just upgared to a PVR/HD box two weeks ago. The DVI connector works as well as the optical( for the 5.1) I have not tried and of the other ports yet. I was told the smart card funtion was not going to be used any time soon. when they came to install the box ( only one per customer right now) we moved the old HD box in to another room. when they hooked up the new box it would not come up. The tech had to call and have them change the box count up one. it seems that they can tell what in one the system so you cant just add a box. So far I'm pleased with the box it woudl be great if we had Discovery HD, the PVR it always on even when the box is powered off ( you can hear the hard drive spining) to get around the single tuner issue I just run a splter going in to the the normal coax connetor on the TV and use the conponet for normal viewing I jsut can't see any of the premium chanles when I do that

now if I can only figure out how to put a larger hard drive in and add it to my in home network.....

DP

[Josh]

DVI ports on HDTV Motorola Box's are now activated

[groundbeef]

I just spoke with Comcast, and for you Chicagoans, they anticipate a June 2004 timeframe for DVR capability on the motorola boxes.

I was told it will first be rolled out to Comcast employees to check for bugs, etc. and then will be rolled out to the general public.

[David]

I just got confirmation that the box is available in Atlanta. They charge $9.95/month plus a $30 install fee. The rep said it's not possible to do a self-install. I'm sure it's possible, they just don't want you to do it yourself. From reading this, I think I'll stick with my ReplayTV with lifetime for right, though.

[David]

I also just found this aritcle that states the two-tuner model with be out by the end of the summer. It's the DCT 6412.

http://www.keepmedia.com/ShowItemDetails.do?itemID=461666&extID=10032&oliID=213

[jon]

Comcast has in fact NOT rolled out the motorola, but instead the scientific-atlanta DVR box in essentially all markets where the DVR is available. It is scientific-atlanta's Explorer 8000 model:

http://www.sciatl.com/customers/Source/745538.pdf

good news is scientific-atlanta is beta-testing, through Time Warner cable in some markets, the explorer 8300, which is 'multi-room'.... in other words, one dvr box in one room, traditional boxes in other rooms, but those other rooms can access content from the main box, and people in up to 4 different rooms can be watching 4 different things. check out scientific-atlanta's main website for more information....

so don't believe everything you read

[lildude]

Comcast HAS rolled out the DCT 6208 DVR . . . I have it in my living room!

[david]

Comcast in Alexandria, VA will be rolling out the DVR w/HD box sometime in the next couple of weeks. I went to trade my HD box in today, but the lady said they had not started rolling them out as of yet for some unknown reason. But she did say it would be this week or next week.

And it looks like they'll be using the Scientific-Atlanta 8000HD model.

I really hope the DVI port is activated!

[Gregl71]

Just ordered my DVR from Comcast. My friend is a provisioning super and I get the low down. He says the 6200 series rocks. All the function of Tivo and dual tuner. They are using it as a retention tool right now in Chicago area so call and threaten to cancel and switch to Satellite if you really want it.

[Keith]

Just called Comcast in Chicago, they swore blind it is not available... a conversation with the 'supervisor' came up with the same story 'it is definitely not released', no one has it in Chicago, if you know of someone who does, give us their address.

They are talking about 'in the summer'. The threat of moving to Satellite did not change their view.

Any ideas?

[Spet]

I just switched from DishNetwork to Comcast and have the HD/DVR (single tuner). My problem is that all of the channels (Analog & SD) look unfocused and grainy compared to my satellite. For a few days I had service from both and it was night and day when you switched between devices. Two different techs have been out and said that the signal and hook up is not the problem, but rather the box. Does anyone else have this problem? If you've never had satellite to compare....you probably won't know what I'm talking about. However, if you've heard of this or know that the HD/Dual Tuner coming out for Comcast corrects this problem...let me know! FYI - the HD looks great...it just pixiates a lot when I'm watching a show somtimes (not always). I don't want to go back to a dish, but the BEST picture quality is what I'm after [Dallas Market] Thanks!

[deniska]

Well, in Chicagoland they are not rolling out yet. I just got my HD ordered, and they said that DVR should be rolled out here by the end of the year. They expect OnDemand to be available in the summer. I would've gone with Dish or DirectTV, but I was not ecstatic about paying $800-$1000 for an HD/DVR combo or loosing the $8 sunk cost I have in Comcast because I have cable internet ($8 is the cheapest TV service you can keep with Comcast. Without any TV service, cable internet cost goes up by $15 which makes no sense at all). Plus I hassled them into giving me all kinds of discounts, so my serice (Digital Classic+2 premium channel sets+HDTV+OnDemand when it becomes available) is only about $35 for the next 3 months, then it goes up to about $50 after 6 months, then the full $85 or so in 12 months. Since there is no contract, this gives me a year to find something better and for the prices to drop on equipment.

I wonder what kind of equipment they use for the HDTV receiver though. Anyone know?

[Seattlite]

Here in Seattle they told us that DVR would be available through Comcast before the end of the year. I'm not sure I understand the comparisons of OnDemand to DVR simply because OnDemand has such limited programming available. We've had it here for a while now and while it's handy for a limited selection of movies and shows if you have PPV channels such as HBO and Showtime, the basic digital channel offerings are seriously random slim pickings. It's kind of like a garage sale of mismash leftover items tossed in a box. Don't get me wrong, there are a few gems in the midst, depending on your interests, but for the most part it's just a catchy extra that I don't use much.

DVR, on the other hand, will be great for choosing specific shows to archive and watch at another time, plus all of the other features it has. I guess it would be like an unlimited personalized OnDemand service. ;) I had hoped it would arrive before the Summer Olympics but now it's looking like late fall, from what I was told today.

[TonyR]

I have DirecTV satellite with a dual-tuner TiVo a single-tuner TiVo. Both are upgraded to give me a total of a couple hundred hours of recording time. With three satellite tuners I can handle any scheduling conflict, and usually can pad all the shows I record by a minute or two before and after their scheduled start and end times. With around 200 hours of space I can save things for months (once I had shows from 3 different years!)

I don't mean to insult anyone, but I don't get how anyone could see OnDemand as even competing with TiVo. They say they give you over a thousand things you can watch, which is great, but that just scratches the surface of what I can record. It doesn't include anything from the broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, The WB, UPN). And what about all the basic cable channels? Does it have MTV, Sci Fi, USA, Trio, TCM, Oxygen, etc? I probably have 100 times more shows that I can record than OnDemand offers. And can you watch shows that were actually on six months earlier?

I'm a huge fan of HBO and Showtime, but most of the shows I watch are still from the networks and basic cable. I can't imagine having to be in front of the set every Sunday at 9:00 to watch Alias, and in front of the set every Thursday at 10:00 to watch ER, etc., and not being able to fast-forward through commercials or simultaneously record another show. I stopped watching TV that way several years ago and can't imagine going back to it.

Other DVRs may soon approach TiVo's rich feature set, and the DirecTV's HDTV TiVo is expensive, but which DVR to get is another issue.

My question is why would I want to switch from a DVR to OnDemand?

TonyR

[Seattlite]

Tony, in my opinion you wouldn't. Your post pretty much confirms what I was saying about the DVR/OnDemand comparisons. It's apples and oranges and I'm not sure how one even relates to the other.

Here's an example. You asked about MTV. Yes, MTV is one of the channels listed in OnDemand. The offerings right now? Episodes 8 through 17 of Real World - Season 2! That's it. E! channel has lovely offerings. 2 whole episodes. A BTS: SoulPlay ep, and 1 E! True Hollywood Story: Brat Pack. Most of the channels you mentioned aren't even available on there at all.

I would only use it for an occasional HBO/Showtime original shows or movie (those selections are a bit better but still quite limited), if I watched premium channels enough to subscribe.

The only thing I see that's similar between the 2 is that you can watch a program when you want, not when it's scheduled. But my VCR offers that to me already, and my VCR is more flexible than OnDemand when it comes to actually storing things I want to watch later. ;)

Tivo/DVR is in a totally different class from anything else currently available.

[TheStreet]

Just stumbled onto this thread from Google. I've been a semi-satisfied Comcast digital cable subscriber in Jersey City, NJ for 3 years. I just got my Mot 6208 with DVR last Thursday. Haven't had much time to play with it but so far I love the better-looking guide that flips wayyyy quicker than my General Instrument/Motorola digital box did. Time-To-Decode when flipping through channels is still horrible though. I used DirecTV a lot and the decode speed to a moving picture is much faster *and* it has the preview window to boot!

I've got the 6208 hooked up using component video and digital audio. It's crystal-clear but only on the digital (hi) channels; local stations are grainy and fuzzy, same as before though?

I plugged things into the ethernet, USB, and FireWire ports on the 6208 and they're all dead. Any idea what/when/if these will ever be used?

This is my first foray into DVR. I've been eyeing ReplayTV (more because of its technical features like quality video out and ethernet in) and TiVo (less) for years but never thought they would catch on.

BTW, I also have and regularly use Comcast OnDemand, Comcast High-Speed Internet at 3000/256 (actual speed more like 3103/156 with large fluctuations), and Verizon DSL at 1500/128 (actual speed that's consistent) (work order placed for upgrade to 1500/384).

[FrankS]

I have had the Comcasts Motorola HDTV/DVR for a couple of weeks. I'd have to say that I am extremely pleased with it so far. The menu is much improved over the old HDTV-only box I had. The time-to-decode on the digital channels is a bit slow, but certianly doesn't make it unwatchable.

The install tech said that two-tuner units should be available by years end. He also said that Comcast would be all digital by by then as well. If this is the case the dual-tuner units, will need have at least 100GB HD. Nearing 200GB would be better.

[BillR]

Here in Wichita KS Cox is rolling out the NEW Mororola 6412 with Dual Tuner HD recorder. It will have HD recording ability. 120GB Hard Drive, fast forward. DVI not active yet but YBR until they get their head end up for DVI etc. Digital spdif 5.1 etc. Should be getting it installed shortly.

[Seattlite]

Update from Comcast: A sales rep yesterday gave me a street date for DVR boxes in Seattle. They should be available here on October 1st.

Of course that's subject to change and they don't have any of the exact specs yet as the units and service is still undergoing testing.

[NOVA Comcast]

Reston and Herndon, Virginia (Nova) Comcast has FINALLY started releasing the HD/DVR box. I have received it yet, but called today to have a tech guy bring me one.

[Larry]

Just called Arlington, VA Comcast and they have the boxes, but there is a waiting list. They should have more arriving by July 1st.

[RJ in SLC]

Any word on when HD/DVR rollout will begin in Salt Lake City??

[Peter]

I have Direct TV Tivo now, I love it... I just bought an HDTV 51" Samsung and I love it. Now I need an HD signal???

Comcast offers local HD programs. Comcast from what I read has a so so DVR with one signal input.

Direct TV TIVO will cost me $999.00 (if you can find one)but Direct TV does not offer local chanels in HD.

Comcast is less exspensive and can offer the whole package with out the quality of TIVO.

What are other people out there doing? I'm sure I'm not the only person with this problem to solve.

[Peter]

Comcast is only soft launching its DVR right now. This model is not the final model. A duel tuner box with be released in the fall with other updated features. They are more in a testing phase right now. That is why they are limiting the amount of boxes available.

[Rick]

RJ -

To get local HD broadcasts with DirecTV just get an off air antenna installed on your dish and you'll get local HD broadcasts. The HD Tivo/DirecTv receiver can record those broadcasts as well.

When I moved 3 months ago I switched from DirecTV to cable because getting HD was so much cheaper that way (can rent the box instead of buying it). I just decided to switch back to satellite. I have the standard Tivo/DirecTv receiver but will buy the HD version when I can finally find a store that has it. Nothing compares to Tivo. It's worth the $999 to me! I'm having satellite installed in my new house in 2 weeks. With DirecTv's movers program it will only cost $25 and that includes the new dish...

[DVR Lurker]

FrankS: Please double-check. Your DVI is active, as is the 1394. Your TV needs to support the corresponding copy protection.

[tp]

A couple of questions:

Can I dub a VHS tape or DVD that I have recorded personally with a camera (or off of tv) into the Comcast hard drive? This would allow me to free up many tapes that only have 1 hour (out of 6) worth saving. I would then dub the chosen program back onto a new VHS tape, again saving only that portion that I want.

Also, can I record from the Comcast box onto a VCR or DVD unit? This would allow me to save recorded hard drive programming worth keeping. Thanks!

[Sunshine in Plantation]

I have this exact box with HDTV Digital programming from Comcast in South Florida.

But, the DVR features on the remote don't seem to work, and Comcast website says "DVR not yet available at this address."

Are all the features 'in the box' and I just need to figure a way to 'turn it on' .. or, do they need to feed me a special signal/data for DVR usage?

[AJB]

I am looking into DVR in Rockville Maryland for a relative. Can you record a "season pass" without any problems with the current Comcast Motorola machine?

[tiredmike]

Comcast is rolling out the DVR box in the Northern California Area starting the 1st of August. Can't wait!

[deborde2]

I just talked to one of Comcast's reps who said it won't be until the end of the year "due to a high failure rate", if then. As for the HD/DVR, they anticipated sometime in 2005.

I'm switching to Comcast from DirecTV (not my choice--moving) and I'm more than a little frustrated at the lack of equipment offered by Comcast.

[iceblocky]

I'm in Oakland, CA. Just got my HD box through Comcast and the technician told me they've got the PVR boxes in, but for whatever reason, they're not notifying the public yet. Probably because they don't have enough techs to handle the anticipated demand.

[G]

I'm outside of Phila, PA. Finally got my the PVR version of the HD box about a month ago. Had to keep calling for it. Works great-- the menu has changed from the traditional digital, but is better. I'd love to have a 2-tuner version in the future. It's great to record/pause HD feeds.

[JoAnn Funk]

I am trying to sign up for the on demand hdtv give away

[JoAnn Funk]

I am trying to sign up for the on demand hdtv give away

[JoAnn Funk]

I am trying to sign up for the on demand hdtv give away

[Adam in Chicago]

I have an appointment to receive my Comcast HDTV/DV-R single feed box on August 16th. Looking forward to it.

I was also informed the dual feed boxes will be out late fall and I can switch my single feed box out for no charge.

[majorjkg]

Rick, have you successfully used the IEEE 1394 connection on a Comcast HD DVR? Which model, DCT6208? DCT6214? A tech is bringing me a Comcast HD DVR box on Saturday (Knoxville, TN area) and it would really simplify my life if the IEEE 1394 works. My Sony HDTV has a good set of connections but I have a lot of set-top-boxes and would prefer not to have to use a switch box (availability of DVI switch boxes is limited and they are not cheap!)

[DOROTHY HORNE]

I just got Motorola dvr/hdtv today from my cable company. NO manual available. Do you know where I can get one?

[majorjkg]

You can find Motorola manuals on the Motorola web site. You might also find something on your cable companies web site.

[majorjkg]

P.S.: Cable companies sometimes disable certain features (such as IEEE 1394 outputs) on some of there boxes, so don't be surprised if every feature doesn't work. Unfortunately, tech support at cable companies is, in my experience, very weak and they might not be able to discuss your questions intelligently, should you have any!

[majorjkg]

P.S.: Cable companies sometimes disable certain features (such as IEEE 1394 outputs) on some of there boxes, so don't be surprised if some features don't work as described in the manual. Unfortunately, tech support at cable companies is, in my experience, very weak and they might not be able to discuss your questions intelligently, should you have any!

[Erick Grau]

Ok. I just received my email from Comcast that DVR is available in my area Jersey City, NJ. It will be installed on Tuesday, I'll post up then.

Tivo S1 (5 years)
Tivo S2 (2 years)

[CableTech]

As a installer for the local cable company here in Louisville KY, the new DVR from Motorola has to be the worst thing out there. It compleltely degrades the analog picture and half of the HD channels suck too. Not to mention they disable just about all of the features that come on the box (including DVI). I am sorry cable subscribers but if you want great picture quality gotta go with Dish or Direct.

[Dan]

I'm in the suburbs of Phialdelphia. I'll be receiving Comcast digital and DVR on Thursday, the STB is the Motorola 6208 and I was told that the new 2 tuner model# 6212 will be out in September and all you do is call and they upgrade you for free to the new STB.