What’s My Best Digital Video Recording Option?

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DVRs and PVRs, which are basically the same thing, allow you to watch television whenever you want to, instead of when they’re broadcast: you simply record the program and play it back when you want to.

Corey in the chat room wanted to know what the best DVR is: TiVo, Windows Media Center, or MythTV?

Chris uses the Comcast branded DVR, but that’s because it makes it easier for him to record his cable shows for playback. What’s best for you, however, depends on what you want to do with it.

If you’re a fan of Open Source, you’ll probably be happy with MythTV:

MythTV is a homebrew PVR project that I’ve been working on in my spare time. It’s been under heavy development for almost four years, and is now quite useable and featureful.

If you want to synchronize your video files with a portable device, you’ll be happier with TiVo, which allows you to port the TiVo-to-go files:

Your TiVo box, powered by the amazing TiVo service, automatically finds and digitally records all of your favorite shows, every time they’re on. Every episode of your favorite series. Every Coppola movie. Every home improvement program. Even Dora cartoons! Whatever you choose. All while you’re out living life. Plus, only TiVo lets you watch your favorite shows any time, anywhere.

Microsoft also offers Windows Media Center, which offers a familiar interface:

Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 powers the all-in-one PC and entertainment center for your entire home. Get all the advanced computing power of Windows XP and enjoy your favorite entertainment on your PC - watch DVDs, record TV, listen to music, share your digital photos, and more.

Snapstream makes BeyondTV, which gives you the full capabilities of a DVR system while running under Windows:

Record and watch TV with your PC. Gain control over your entertainment experience. With Beyond TV, you determine what you want to watch and when you want to watch it. With incredible features and extensive setting options, TV is under your control.

What DVR/PVR do you use?

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[tags]tivo, pvr, dvr, mythtv, windows media center[/tags]