HD IRD Questions

[mattman5000]

I just got a new 57 inch rear prjection HDTV :) . I'm now planning to buy an HDTV capable IRD. I've got a number of questions. I've read all of the recent posts in this forum. I learned a great deal, but still have some questions. Please reply if you can answer one or more. Thanks!!

I currently use a Sony A50, which I like very much. I need RF remote capability and Dolby Digital. I assume all HDTV IRDs have DD, but I need the RF remote because I use one IRD for all the TVs in the house. I am looking at the Sony HD100 and the Hughes E86. These seem to be readily available are the only ones with RF (as far as I know). Initially, I preferred the Sony, but I have read that it is slow and has some quality issues. So I might be leaning toward the Hughes.


Here are the questions.


Is there a hard reset procedure for either of these units? The A50 can be easily reset to clear a 745 by pulling the power while the unit is in test mode. Does the HD100 do the same? Is there an easy procedure for the E86?

My Sony A50 must be set to use either IR or RF remote, it will not do both at the same time. Can the E86 be operated with an RF remote and an IR remote at the same time? (IE. Can I operate it with another universal IR remote, while also using the Hughes RF remote?)

I have 2 A50 remotes, will a Sony A50 remote work with the HD100?

Will these units work for local HD without a Valid Access Card, do you need a Valid Access Card to receive local over the air HD programming?

A subscription question. I read on directv.com that HDNet comes with the basic package. Is is correct to assume that HD HBO comes with the HBO package and HD shotime comes with the Showtime package?

[larryk]

Hard reset is easy on both; on the Sony HD-100 use the guide and the down arrow on the unit (should also work on the A50)The hughes made IRD's should be the down arrow and the power button on the unit.

RF remotes; the Sony must be set to either one, teh Hughes can use both (I think)

The A50 remotes (if set to the same code)should work most of the features.

Both units will work for OTA without a sub.

You are correct on the sub question. As far as HDNet goes, while it is free, you do have to ask for it.

I have a Sony HD-100, and a Mits HD5 (E86 clone)and I love my sony, but I would recommend the hughes made IRD for two reasons:
1. It is faster switching channels, and cruising the guide.
2. The Sony will NOT give you you local HD channel info in the guide, it just says "Digital Station" with no program info, the Hughes made IRD's will give you a complete integrated guide (it sure helps to see what is on that "digital station"
:Z

[crzywhtboy]

I also have the mitsu (E86) and it works well, both remotes work at the same time...like the way the program guide shows the OTA and satellite channels in the same guide


crzy

[mattman5000]

Thanks for the replies. It is good to hear from someone that owns both.

Hard reset is easy on both; on the Sony HD-100 use the guide and the down arrow on the unit (should also work on the A50)
That is actually soft reset on the A50. To hard reset, hit down arrow and menu on the unit. That brings up a hidden service screen. From there, select test, and unplug the unit during EEPROM test. That procedure works everytime for me.

I skimmed over both owners manuals (downloaded from directv.com). Now I have a better idea of how they work. I was kind of bummed to find out they will only do HD or SD, not both at the same time. Becauase I will need to switch it SD mode to watch one of the TVs in the other rooms.

[larryk]

Originally posted by mattman5000
I was kind of bummed to find out they will only do HD or SD, not both at the same time. Becauase I will need to switch it SD mode to watch one of the TVs in the other rooms.

The only HD IRD that will do both at the same time is the Samsung 160,
and you do not want to go there...P4 only, and it still has quite a few problems...

[Bushman]

I am in the same boat...But my question is..What receiver do I get and where is the cheapest place???
Thanks for any advice

Bushman

[larryk]

Look for open box sales. I would look for a Hughes E86, a Mits HD-SR5, or a Toshiba 3000 (there all the same IRD)new they are about 499.00.