dvr, blu-ray and netflix in one box?

[tynopik]

trying to keep everything simple for a non-techie person

they have standard cable plugged straight into their tv (standard def, no cable box)

would like to add dvr service (hopefully without a monthly fee)

netflix streaming of course

while replacing their current dvd/vcr player

if blu-ray isn't possible, just a dvd player is ok

closest I've found is the PS3 with various hacks, but I want something simple and supported (and as cheap as possible of course )

the really bare minimum would just be to leave the existing dvd/vcr, forget blu-ray, and add netflix+dvr.

That can be done with the TiVo Premiere line, but it's so expensive and the ongoing subscription is obnoxious

Are there any better solutions?

 

[sivart]

HTPC? That is the only other one that I can think of that can handle just cable DVR without renting one from the cable company.

Maybe a better solution would be the $7/month cable DVR + Blu-ray with wifi (netflix, et al)

 

[tynopik]

HTPC? That is the only other one that I can think of that can handle just cable DVR without renting one from the cable company.

yeah, i don't want to be the one on call when something goes wrong

Maybe a better solution would be the $7/month cable DVR + Blu-ray with wifi (netflix, et al)

may be the way to go

it's just I was wanting to get it as a gift so it's kind of awkward to say 'here's my gift: throw out your dvd/vcr and pay $7 month in perpetuity'

they've been very resistant to paying for a dvr before (even though they could afford it)

 

[Emulex]

htpc is cheapest way dude. $200 used asus essentio with windows 7,8gb,geforce 220,1TB drive, core2quad. add lenovo remote $29. Add htpc case (or not). add small system SSD to quiet it down and make it stupid fast ($59)

hdhomerun?

recording 2 shows at 1080 while outputting two youtube 4K video's to two 42" displays at once - priceless.

or maybe that video will be 8K video in 5 years - but you'll have spent the money once.

similar solutions exist for linux and osx for those less savvy.

 

[2canSAM]

yeah, i don't want to be the one on call when something goes wrong



may be the way to go

it's just I was wanting to get it as a gift so it's kind of awkward to say 'here's my gift: throw out your dvd/vcr and pay $7 month in perpetuity'

they've been very resistant to paying for a dvr before (even though they could afford it)

Have them use DVR for 1 month. They will be sold and will gladly pay 7 bucks with a smile on their face.

 

[s44]

Non-Premiere Tivo plus separate Blu.

 

[KeithP]

Have them use DVR for 1 month. They will be sold and will gladly pay 7 bucks with a smile on their face.

Agreed. My experience with people that have never used a DVR before is that once they get one, they don't know how they lived without it.

Maybe their cable company offers gift cards?

-KeithP

 

[HomerSapien]

If they are reluctant for a dvr, do not go down the HTPC route just to save $7/month. I used a htpc and switched back to the standard dish dvr solely for the convenience of not having to maintain it. Only thing I miss is customization of menus.

Why go for a blue ray player if they only have SD tv? I know future proof, but it sounds like they are content with what they have.