Sunday, 7 December 2008

HUMAX FOXSAT HDR FREESATPLUS RECEIVER REVIEW.

HUMAX FOXSAT HDR FREESATPLUS RECEIVER REVIEW.


HUMAX FOXSAT HDR FREESATPLUS RECEIVER REVIEW explanation for new buyers.

We had decided to NOT do a review of this HDR as we had already been first to review the Humax Foxsat HD freesat receiver when it was first introduced to the general public.
We decided to comment on a few bits and bobs about the HDR because new buyers will find the box different from their usual set top box.
The Humax Foxsat HDR has 350gb hard drive already installed, which is good for many hours of films or Series recording.
The hard drive is already partitioned to allow the user the chance to use the USB facility on the front (under the drop down flap) or on the rear of the Foxsat HDR for things like photos which can be added to a seperate partition as your favourite films or series.
The Humax Foxsat HDR is not as attractive as the Foxsat HD receiver and it is much larger. The remote although slated on some forums we feel they are a bit harsh considering the Humax Foxsat HDR remote is also a Universal Remote which can be programmed to use: Audio, T.V., DVD, PVR in any order you like, so anything that removes an extra remote is a bonus.
We advise most definitely for all new users to study the manual BEFORE USEAGE.
For this little guide we decided to use one coax cable to see how the Humax Foxsat HDR performed, and we were not let down. The rear of the Humax Foxsat HDR has three LNB slots and those with only one cable are advised to use LNB1 in and with the other two LNB points, ie; LNB 1 out, and LNB 2 in it is advised to use a simple loop coax. The simple loop coax can be purchased from your favourite electrical store or you can make one up yourself if you have the fittings, of a small length of coax cable and two F-connectors. Once you either buy or make this loop up attach it to the rear of the HUmax Foxsat HDR onto LNB 1 out, and LNB 2 in (see the diagram in the manual).
Click on the graphic above to enlarge and see the update screen on the HUmax Foxsat HDR.
You can now do the set up; your new Humax Foxsat HDR has your single cable from the satellite dish going into LNB 1 in and the other two LNB slots as described and in the manual.
The first thing the HUmax Foxsat HDR will ask you is if you wish to do an update, BEFORE saying yes; DO THIS AT YOUR OWN RISK - while the Humax Foxsat HDR is still switched on remove the LNB1 in coax and put it into LNB2 in, go back to your remote and agree to the update. The Humax Foxsat HDR will go black for a few seconds and then start the update, once the update is complete put back the LNB cables to their original positions and allow the Humax Foxsat to go through the procedure again whereas it will then tell you there are no updates available.
You can then carry on with your Humax Foxsat HDR set up.
When you get to your postal code we advise those users who live outside the ITV HD catchment areas to enter a postal code such as SW1A 1AA to be sure of receiving ITV HD.
It should be mentioned at this time that if you use a single cable with the Humax Foxsat HDR it restricts your full useage of the Humax Foxsat HDR but it will allow those in restricted accommodation to still use it, students for example.
As reported earlier we tested the first public Humax Foxsat HD and comparing the Foxsat HD receiver with the Humax Foxsat HDR we suggest the Humax Foxsat HDR is better with regards, sound, graphics, upscaling of old and dated programming, user friendly with very few niggles. Our niggles; Postal Code entry is a pain for the less dexterous in ALL freesat boxes.
We like the idea of being able to set a recording and not have the problem of getting five minutes of rubbish before the recording starts - the Humax Foxsat HDR comes into it's own with this facilty, excellent for following a series. The accuracy of this of course is sent out by the programme provider.
The clever Humax Foxsat HDR will also do what is called scheduled tracking, which is if the programme changes to a different time or day the Humax Foxsat HDR will detect them and the programme will still be recorded - very clever.
You know that film which is split by the news? No problem the HUmax Foxsat HDR will sort this out also if you have requested a recording - superb.
For the satellite enthusiast he/she can enjoy the benefit of the built in DisEqC facility and the major player the cam facility - Humax have given us a lot for our pennies.
Conclusion;
The Humax Foxsat HDR is a great bit of kit worth every penny, and as satellite enthusiasts who own many different satellite receivers we are impressed. We have been playing this game since Sky had only one channel so we think we know a little bit about receivers, this one is special.
Our suggestion, if your into freesat' go get one, this sat receiver is hot!

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