Using A VCR to record DTV

[Kyle]

Currently, I use a VCR to record shows broadcast over the air when I'm not going to be home. Will I still be able to use my VCR for this once I get my digital converter, or will I have to get TIVO or a DVR?

[SWHouston]

Kyle,
It doesn't appear at this time (05/01/08), that the technology of the DTA Boxes will let you do Timed Off-hour recordings, except for the following.
You'd have to set the channel up on the Box, start and stop the Recorder, or,
leave the Box on, and on the right channel, and time your recorder to record that. Then change the Box channel to record something else. UKKK!

And before you buy one, keep in mind that.....
Some DTA Boxes don't even have Remote Controls, most don't have HD Tuners in them, and the coupons do NOT apply to ALL Boxes !

If you decide to get any Recorder, make sure it has an ATSC (Digital Tuner) in it (or both NTSC & ATSC), and just save the trouble of getting a Box.
So, the way it is now, these Boxes are basically for "watching" TV.
Hopefully as time passes, they'll get it together and give us something that works better for us.

Have a good Day !
PS: There's a very detailed discussion about DTV Boxes at.....
what-kind-converter-need-t5.html

[JeremyC]

you can get a tivo connected to your antenna. They are around 400 bucks and they need a phone line. you can record one thing while watching another and pause live tv. they have a digital tuner.

[MotherLode]

I saw a JVC model the other day. Don't know if you can use a coupon for it. It had DVD/VCR and both NTSC & ATSC. At Sam's Club it was about $170.00 (membership required).

The first suggestion wouldn't cost you any more, but you can't change channels. Your VCR needs a box, as well as your TV if you tune in to signals with both. We been run everything through our VCR (using its tuner), so we only need one box. We rarely record broadcasts any more.

With the convert box, it is your tuner. Your VCR is just a tape recorder once you go digital.

ML