What receivers are available for DIRECTV?

DIRECTV also provides customers with many different types of receivers to select from upon subscribing to their service. The available receivers include the standard definition, high definition, high definition digital video recorder, and 4K genie receiver. This ensures that customers are able to select the receiver that meets their needs, the cost of the receiver and the type of TV that they have.

Standard Definition Receivers The most fundamental directv receiver is the standard which enables a user to get the Directv standard definition programs. This includes almost all the top broadcast networks and many of the most-watched cable networks. The picture quality is much as the same as you would see with an analog cable box.

Standard definition receivers are offered as freebies when subscribing to new DIRECTV services. It is always important to note that the HD or DVR model often attracts an additional fee per month. Therefore if you are still using the older standard definition TV and do not require recording shows or the best picture quality of HD then the standard receiver will be appropriate for you.

Two examples of the standard receiver models available with DIRECTV are the DIRECTV R16 and D12. Both permit the viewers to access all channels and program guides available for DIRECTV service. However, they do not have higher level functions such as HD or DVR. The cables include RCA audio video connections to connect the box to the TV. The interface and menu are not very complicated and can easily be used by any layman.

In summary, the standard definition receiver is used to enable the budget conscious customers to access the DIRECTV programming. However, for those with HDTVs or for those who want more sophisticated features in their viewing, there are several other receivers offered by DIRECTV.

HD Receivers Customers holding high Definition television sets are also catered for by DIRECTV through the following HD receiver models. These boxes enable you to watch the DIRECTV channels up to 1080p thus enabling you to watch clear pictures. Currently, most of the main national networks and many other cable networks have switched to high definition broadcasts.

DIRECTV offers different models of HD receiver such as Genie Mini, DIRECTV HD Receiver, and DIRECTV Plus HD DVR. The main advantage of HD is in enhanced picture quality as compared to standard definition. It is also important to understand that some interface features and channel/recording capacities may differ depending on the model.

The Genie Mini is a smaller version of the Genie, which lets you extend the main Genie DVR wirelessly to other TVs in your house. Some of the features that are available in the current models of DIRECTV HD Receiver and the DIRECTV Plus HD DVR include the interactive user guide, instant replay, search and the ability to schedule for a program to be recorded among others.

Usually, there is an additional cost of approximately 5-10 dollars per month for an HD receiver as compared to a standard one. Thus, it will cost a little extra to unlock the much better picture that HD offers.

HD DVR Receivers However, if you wish to have the picture quality of an HD in addition to modern DVR recording features, then there are several HD DVRs available with DIRECTV. Some models like the Genie HD DVR and the DIRECTV Plus HD DVR combine both functions in a single receiver.

Overall, the most obvious advantage of an HD DVR is that you can record the programmes of your preference and watch such programmes at your own convenience, in addition to watching them in high definition. DIRECTV HD DVRs let you record a certain number of programs simultaneously while watching other live programs. For instance, the Genie model has the capability to record five programs simultaneously.

HD DVR features cost approximately $10 to $15 more per month than a standard definition receiver. You also get to part with more cash at the beginning as compared to basic receiver equipment that comes with new DIRECTV packages. However, the advanced features such as pausing, rewinding, and scheduling of programmes in addition to the high definition picture quality is a commendable improvement in the general feel of the product.

4K Genie Receivers For clients with Ultra HD 4K television sets, DIRECTV Genie receivers that allow for the playing of 4K resolution are available. Products such as the HR54 Genie HD DVR and C61K Genie Mini Client enable you to access your favorite Ultra HD programming choices with dazzling 4K resolution.

4K content is still a long way from what we are used to seeing in the traditional HD format, but more 4K content is being uploaded each month by Netflix, YouTube, and even DIRECTV. DIRECTV currently provides some live sporting events, movies, and TV programs in 4K for customers who have compatible receivers. Further 4K expansion in the coming months is planned, including NBC and FOX channels.

Other than the 4K viewing, these Genie receivers possesses other features of the earlier models of DVRs. Their HDMI 2. 0 ports with HDCP 2. 2 enable you to view and record in the newest 4K copy protection standard. DIRECTV 4K setup also relies on high bandwidth coax cabling to provide faster data rates than other receivers.

The current 4K Genie models have a higher initial lease fee and a monthly charge compared to other DIRECTV receivers. But for home theater lovers with a new technology of 4K TV, it is the only option to watch 4K programs of DIRECTV. It’s a future-oriented investment as 4K grows in popularity.

Choosing Your DIRECTV Receiver The first thing to do before your choose the equipment to install from DIRECTV is to determine the channels and programming that you would like to receive. However, if you are still using a standard definition television, a simple SD receiver might be adequate if you are looking to cut costs. Those who have relatively newer HDTVs will be better off if they upgrade to either one of the HD or the HD DVR. Due to availability of high end home theater 4K TVs customers can make full use of a new 4K Genie model.

Also consider your need for the additional controls and settings that are available with DVR capabilities of the models. Do you require or desire to have live pause, rewind, and record multiple programs? If so, then find the required pairing of the receiver and storage for the habits and the family members.

It is also important to note that while the high-end receivers are quite expensive to purchase and may be costly in terms of service fees, remember that the equipment can be easily relocated if you are to shift residences. Investing in features such as HD and DVR yields benefits over the period of usage of the product. It is recommended to contact DIRECTV and coordinate with them regarding your current and future programming requirements in order to determine which receiver is most suitable for you.