An increasing number of people are trying to expand their own media space. One of the means that will help with this is satellite TV. Among all the accessories for installation, the satellite receiver plays the most important role. Depending on the parameters, it may contain the functions of recording to external drives, connecting to the Internet and the presence of access slots for television with a subscription fee.
Which receiver to choose
There are 3 categories of satellite receivers, each designed for a specific type of user. In all categories, there are the best of the best, flagship satellite receivers. First, you need to decide for what purposes a satellite receiver is needed, and only then you should think about choosing the best option. If a tuner is needed to watch channels without a monthly fee (FTA), in the standard MPEG-2 format, then a receiver from the “budget models” category is quite suitable. But if it is important for the user that his receiver has the functions of recording and connecting to the Internet, as well as that it is equipped with an HDMI interface for viewing high-definition channels (1080P), you should think about purchasing a receiver from the "middle class" or "premium" category. …
Budget receiver options
As a rule, such receivers are installed for elderly people, since this technique is easy to use. Watching programs and nothing more is the main function of such receivers. With the help of special software, on budget tuners, you can also watch conditionally-encoded channels.
The main problem with budget receivers is the need for periodic tuning. Some channels may change their broadcasting frequency every six months or a year.
Features of budget receivers:
- video compression format MPEG-2;
- connector for connecting to a TV - SCART or RCA;
- cost 25-45 $.
According to a large number of users, the most reliable and practical receiver in this category is the StarTrack SR-55x model.
Middle class
This class of receivers is represented by a wide range of models with HD recording and viewing functions. These receivers are equipped with an HDMI interface, so they are suitable for viewing on TVs with a diagonal of more than 42 inches. Also, by purchasing such a receiver, the buyer will be sure that it will not become obsolete prematurely, since HDTV technologies in television are just beginning to develop.
Mid-range receivers are equipped with a USB connector. Therefore, it will not be difficult to configure it. One has only to download a few update files on one of the manufacturer's official websites and upload them to the receiver using a flash drive.
Features of middle class receivers:
- equipped with a card reader;
- video compression format MPEG-4;
- video playback in 1080P format;
- availability of a LAN-outlet for connecting to the Internet;
- cost 60-200 $.
Some of the best mid-range receiver manufacturers are OPENBOX and Galaxy Innovations.
Premium class
It has all the functions of a mid-range receiver, in addition, it is equipped with additional equipment and an extended range of functions. These tuners can act as a cable or terrestrial TV receiver. Instead of a standard LAN port for connecting to the Internet, premium receivers are equipped with a wireless adapter for connecting to Wi-Fi networks.
Features:
- OC Linux or Android;
- recording of three channels simultaneously;
- the ability to install a hard disk;
- advanced functions of the media player;
- built-in Web browser and YouTube service;
- the ability to install additional plugins;
- cost from $ 200.
Receivers from OPENBOX, Dreambox and Gi Vu + Solo 2 are considered to be among the best in this category.
