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DIRECTV HDTV Satellite Receiver Guide
By: Brian Stevens

DIRECTV will give you a free satellite TV system - a satellite dish and a four-room satellite receiver setup - when you subscribe to their service. They'll even throw in free installation.

But if you want to watch satellite TV in HD (high definition) format you'll need to get an HDTV receiver. The good news is DIRECTV is currently offering their basic HDTV receiver for free.

Here's what you get ...

DIRECTV HDTV Satellite Receiver Features

* Transmits HD broadcasts to your TV giving you the clearest picture available.

* Dolby Digital surround sound for three-dimensional audio.

* Combination tuner lets you watch both satellite and over-the-air HDTV channels.

* DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide lets you access all your HD channels with the touch of a button.

* Universal remote allows you to operate your satellite TV receiver, your television, your VCR, and your DVD player.

* Video and audio connections so you can hook up your satellite system to your stereo or your home theater system.

DIRECTV HDTV Satellite Receiver DVR Combination

The DIRECTV HD/DVR (digital video recorder) receiver lets you watch satellite TV in high definition and lets you record your favorite shows in digital format. This receiver costs $199, and comes with all the features of the HD receiver plus:

* You can pause and replay live TV, and digitally record your favorite programs with a click of your remote.

* A 250 GB hard drive lets you record up to 200 hours of regular programming or 30 hours of HD programming.

* Record two programs while watching a another program or a previously recorded program.

Bottom Line

If you want the most life-like picture and the most realistic sound when you watch DIRECTV, then you need a DIRECTV HDTV receiver. And if you want to record your favorite shows in digital format, and can afford the extra $199, you'll want to purchase the HD/DVR receiver.