Wed
Jun
15
2005

VHS Dead? Long live DVD!

We often talk about how old technology dies off to make way for new stuff – but then, you can still buy audio cassette blanks, can’t you?

So this is a bit of a surprise: The huge Walmart chain in the US are dropping VHS tapes and equipment – totally!
Or are they ?

Regardless of Walmart’s ultimate decision, maybe the time has come for DVD Recorders and PVR’s , which leads me to ask: What are you using to record TV, and what would you like to use?

Posted by Neil, 15 June 05
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Comment

  1. We currently use a VCR but I’d love to have a PVR.

    — Pete · Jun 15, 01:29 PM · #

  2. Still using a VCR, would prefer a networkable device that allows me to watch the show on my TV or computer.

    Having said that, it is of course illegal in Australia to record from the television… remember your sermon the other week :)

    There has been talk of that limitation of copyright law in Australia recently, I reckon the government are working on a change.

    I think this Christmas we will see a push on hard disk based recorders to sit under your television. Last Christmas they were about $1000… this year, I suspect they will be the price of a VCR.

    However, I don’t think the products will be aimed at the geek market like you and me – people would would like there to be an ethernet port on the back of the device.

    — Simon · Jun 15, 02:16 PM · #

  3. Yeah, the idea of building a ‘media PC’ is really appealing, except for the fact that Rob can’t even program the VCR, let alone a media centre!
    I love the idea of the American TiVo system: an electronic program guide, with a multi tuner PVR with a BIG HDD, so that 2,3, or 4 programs can be recorded simultaneuously.
    And yes, I am aware of the letter of the law with regards to this, but I too think things are changing…

    — Neil · Jun 15, 03:48 PM · #

  4. We’re starting to think about getting a new computer. I’m drawn to the idea of a Media PC with all the bells and whistles Foxtel are advertising with their pay service. AS I understand it all you need are the TV I/O card (with 2+ receivers), PVR Software (may come with the card), a big HDD and a DVD+/-RW drive.

    I also reckon by Christmas it will be HDD recorders.

    Unfortunately for Australian PVR’s. I’ve read that the Networks don’t want to syndicate their schedules, a la TiVo.

    — Pete · Jun 17, 04:41 PM · #

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