Since we cut the cord on cable I was looking into a subscription free DVR to record OTA broadcast programs and watch when convenient for the family. Other than a HTPC, I really have only found 1 option so far (channel master DVR+). Does anyone have experience with this DVR or have another recommendation?

http://m.cnet.com/reviews/channel-master-dvr/35833139


Thanks.

I am just curious , how many channels are you able to get using OTA. Could you not stream off the internet using an htpc.? The box you linked to seems to be able to do what you want but it pretty expensive but OTOH a cable box rental for one yr is about the same.

FWIW you can get a TiVo premiere on ebay with lifetime service , may be worth a look.

I'd also be interested in ensuring the device works with the xbox one for the one guide and voice commands, etc. channels are below.

Also, it's surprising how much better the picture quality is on ota channels compared to cable.

It looks like you get all the major networks , lucky for you. I have heard that in many cases OTA is clearer because the cable companies use a lot of compression so they can provide more channels, most of which I don't give a sh*t about.I tend to see a lot of artifacting and get dropouts in the sound which requires a rewind of sorts. Where I am no OTA and most channels have horrible quality. The best is CBC on hockey night in Canada. Still a lot of channels I watch are not available ota so I will pay the man until I cant.

I have had my new Channel Master DVR+ installed for a couple weeks now and am quite pleased with it. I am replacing an old DTVPal OTA DVR from Dish Network (later sold by Channel Master as the CM-7000). The functionality of the new DVR+ is similar but much updated (especially the guide when connected to internet). You must buy an external USB harddrive to get all the recording features. With a 1TB drive you can record around 180 hours of true HD OTA broadcasts (stunning images). Unit has two tuners, so you can: a. watch 1/record 1; b. record 2 and watch previously recorded show.

OTA is the way to go if you can get station signals where you are (mine found around 160 channels in the Los Angeles area).