New toy - Hauppauge HD PVR
 

I just got in my Hauppauge HD PVR (http://www.hauppauge.com/site/products/data_hdpvr.html). Cool box! It has component inputs, which allows you to connect to your set tob box (after the STB descrambles the signal). It generates MPEG4 output files, which is fine with me - TMPGenc DVD Author 3 reads them just fine.

So far, the quality of the output is almost as clear as the direct transport stream capture method (my HDHomeRun uses this method). The HDHomeRun works great for all clearQAM channels, but the encrypted ones were a problem. Now using the HD PRV box I can record Showtime HD and many more. My only other wish is that Verizon will increase the number of HD channels on Fios soon!

now just need to switch to making sets on dual layer or blu-ray discs to keep the full quality.

yeah, but even at a reduced quality level, it's still excellent. I expect to do 3 - 45min episodes per dvd, just like I do with the HDHomeRun output.

No No No. Compression BAD!! http://www.digitalfaq.com/forum/error.gif

[88][88][88][88]

Hmmmm, compression vs. cost of Blu-ray media.....Compression wins!

We're talking "resolution compression" here, not image quality problems. :)
This compression wins for sure.

A 16:9 720x480 with good bitrate is every bit as nice and clean on a 55" television as a HD channel is. Maybe even better, depending on the channel broadcast quality! The process of down-resolution can help hide image flaws in the HD signal.

720x480 is better then 1080x1920? or 1080x720. i mean ya it looks great but i wouldnt say it looks better. If thats the case start complaining to your service provider. Cost is way to much to be doing sets on blu-ray anyways but i was just kidding when i said blu-ray sets. im dreaming for that to happen right now. i know there is no way any of us are going to waste that kind of money when half of us dont even want to waste the money on dual layer discs.

Heh heh.. I was just giving you a bad time. [88][88]
No Blu-Ray for me for either for a long time.