Freeview Set top Box Recommendations

[Wayne <Wayne@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi all,
Its got to the point where our STB has packed up (well not storing the
channels where it needs to, plus the kids have destroyed the remote :!)
and I was wondering what recommendations you guys have.

I've had a few of these things at various points and the original one
(that's now packed up) had the best spec in terms of how the menu worked
etc. - typically I've not found any others that seem to fit (and I cant
find a new 'original one' either) - which is where your help would be
appreciated.

I'd like one that has a decent menu (EPG?) that still shows your
'currently tuned' channel in a window while allowing you to go through
the guide of the other channels without changing your viewing channel.
(does that make sense?) hopefully one that has a good remote - one with
'real' buttons rather than the Sinclair ZX81 Membrane that cracks and
gives up(!). I'm not too bothered about 'top up tv' so no need for a
CAM(?) port.

I've got a spare hdmi port on the tv - but I think I might be saving
that for me blu-ray player (Shhh - dont tell swmbo!) - I've a spare
component video and the obvious scart. I dont think there is any benefit
from an HDReady box - but should there be one that also does freesat or
any upcoming hd freeview - I would also consider that. (Am I right in
thinking that Freesat is in addition to Freeview rather than replacement?)

Oh, and if there's such a thing, something that can be spoken to via a
computer/ LAN, adding custom pop-up messages (IP telephone intergration)
- ok - back in the real  world :))


Cheers all
Wayne.






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