Interesting concept. I can get multiple dodgy Chinese hdmi usb grabbers and firesticks and just use this and a cooler to put it all together theoretically
Yeah...that's certainly gonna be more cheaper
1 Like
As mentioned, I've added power cycle support to ah4c. So, if you're using the recommended USB hub discussed above, or really anything else that can control power via an API (Shelly Smart Plugs, or UniFi PoE Switch for two examples) -- you can now trigger a power cycle of a streaming stick right from the ah4c WebUI:
With less than 2 weeks before my TiVo becomes a paperweight, I need to pull the trigger on new service and devices and am in dire need of advice/help to try to hang on to the 2 features I most want:
- option to tune by either a traditional channel guide/grid or by direct number entry;
- a built-in hard drive DVR (local, not cloud).
I was looking at getting DirecTV streaming service and a used Osprey, because here and on other sites that seems to be the go to choice for old-school-ish tuning, but I didn't realize there's no local DVR. Now I think that my only option is still DTV, but with actual roof dish, Genie2, & client boxes. I'd rather not pay for renting these and for dish price vs stream price, but I'm not finding any other option that won't require computer and commitment to customization and programming. I work in related field and could handle it, but I'm not willing to devote a ton of effort. (Not deep-pocketed but willing to pay a little more for the convenience of not having to master a new skill!)
Any suggestions- from what service provider to which hardware and all else - are most warmly welcomed!! Thanks in advance.
(EDITED - formatting only)
It is strange that you are asking this here as you seem to have eliminated Channels DVR or have you? Channels DVR is very simple to set up and there is no programing involved yet there is some configuration just like when you set up your TiVo years ago. All you need is an old computer or an inexpensive new one such as a mini PC and an inexpensive streaming stick for each TV. You can get TiVo like experience without any other hardware if you use Youtube TV and get your TV stations over the internet.
The things you are asking about are going to lead you down the same path with things to configure and acquire.
1 Like
Based on your requirements, and the statement just above, getting the dish version of DirecTV would be the choice. However this will not be "a little more". Expect to pay about double what a streaming based solution would run.
Channels DVR can do all of what you want (and much more), but it will require a computer, and some time and interest on your part to set it up.
1 Like
He can also get by with the streaming version of dtv and a Gemini or Osprey box. They also allow channel changes via numbers
But not the local storage he's after. One could argue whether there's much difference between local and cloud when you don't have true control over either, but that was one of his listed requirements.
1 Like
Ironically (or stupidly!), I was led to this site & topic via search, and didn't even know Channels was a thing (a diy DVR, as opposed to being just a clever site name.) I'll have to do some quick learning about it. If it isn't a rabbit hole of a project, provides a simple tuner interface (guide + direct), and can work with a less expensive streaming service - then it sounds like it might be what I'm looking for without needing a 2nd mortgage. Thx.
Re. Other answers - yes, a non-cloud DVR is a strong preference. (I keep shows for years/forever.)
The answer to that depends somewhat on what your desired channels are. Give us a list of your "must have" and "nice to have" channels, and we can give you an idea of whether CDVR server on its own can deliver them, or whether you'll need to use a community project for some. This may also help with determining which streaming service to choose.
1 Like
bnhf, thanks for offering to provide advice tailored to my specific wish-list! I'd want the major networks - ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, & PBS (preferably my local affiliates in Philadelphia), news (MSNOW, CNN). I like football and tennis, but don't desperately need ESPN, NFL or Tennis networks. My fav station used to be AXS until FIOS dropped it (I'm a live music junky). Wouldn't mind HBO, but not a deal-breaker. Every now and then MeTV has things I click on but wouldn't miss it if I never saw it. But that's part of why I like a channel guide/grid - I like to stumble on things without knowing what I'll find.
If you are close enough to Phili to use an antenna you could add a HDHomerun and an antenna to you channels server to receive those networks. It's a very easy setup on Channels and one of there standard solutions with no third party software.
1 Like
For the locals, an good antenna with HDHR Flex will do
PBS, if you can get it, you'll be fine but you can use the pbs bridge or FASTChannels to get the Philly stations
For MeTV + AXS + HBO, I think you'll like Philo.
You can pipe in metv and AXS with FASTChannels and a hdmi encoder
HBO channels can be piped in with adbtuner direct @babsonnexus
If ESPN + NFLN + Tennis Channel +CNN + MSNOW is key, I think DTV Stream Choice package + HBO Max is an option. Once again, FASTChannels make sense + hdmi encoder
Just a heads up that I've discontinued HDMI Encoder Native Apps in favor of FastChannels with DRM Bridge. The latter accomplishes everything that HENA intended to do, except better. Most importantly, it is virtually maintenance free and able to keep up with all the shifting stations as they become available. As such, I have moved into completely using it instead of the app-based approach, and recommend that all others do, too.
Right now, the HBO stations are not in FC unless you're using something like Spectrum and have access...
... but I expect that to change in the near future. In the meantime, you can continue to use HENA to get them from the app, but I won't be updating for any changes that may come in the future.
1 Like
Yeah...HBO Max links are a bit direct as its deeplinks and the default configs are enough to pipe it in.
Sad to see HENA discontinued but FAST Channels have a more direct way of piping in DRM'd channels (especially if you have a small-town cable provider).