Recording TV: A Buyer's Guide

The latest gadgets make it easy to record your favourite televisions shows at the touch of a button and watch them when it's convenient to you. And the best bit? It means no more arguing over which programme to watch! Get the low down on what to look for when you're shopping for the best model with our jargon-busting guide...

By Emily Peck

With the digital switchover in full swing, any television in your home that still uses an aerial to get the signal, perhaps a secondary bedroom TV for example, will need to be upgraded. Instead of throwing away a perfectly useable TV, it's possible to make it digital by adding a set top box. But instead of just adding a digital receiver, you might want to invest in a DTR (one with a built in hard drive) instead, which will give you more control while 'upscaling' the quality of your TV picture. You may want to add a DTR to your existing HD-Ready TV too - not only do they give you access to either Freeview and freesat channels, some now in high definition, but the built-in memories give you the ability to record, pause and rewind live TV.

The benefit of shopping around is that models vary - how much content they can supply and store on the hard drive, the number of shows they can record at the same time and how many days in advance you can access the EPG (electronic programme guide) all differ.

What Does DTRMean?

DTR stands for digital television recorder, but it's sometimes referred to as a PVR (personal video recorder) just to confuse the issue! A DTR hooks up to your TV and lets you record content straight onto its hard drive. It is different to a standard set top box (STB) as it gives you extra recording features.

What Are The Options?

You can either pay a one-off fee for a DTR from companies such as Humax or Sagemcom, which gives you the benefit of either Freeview or freesat channels, or choose a subscription-based package, from companies such as Sky+ or BT Vision.

Alternatively, you can buy a DVD recorder with hard drive. These not only let you record onto hard drive but let you record straight onto DVD, which you can keep or share with friends. These are suitable if you already have a TV with built-in Freeview or Freeview/freesat/Sky+ set top box, for example, and are struggling for hard drive space, as you can connect the two up and save extra content onto disc.

Which Special Features Can You Get?

Unlike a simple set top box receiver, a DTR or DVD player with hard drive gives you recording features as well as the ability to store music and photos straight onto its body. You can also pause and rewind live TV and fast forward recorded content. You can also programme your machine to 'series link' shows so it automatically records and you never miss an episode, which is ideal if you're out and about. A DTR will also let you record up to two shows (if you get one with a twin tuner) while watching one. You can also 'split record' a show, whereby you can record a program as a whole either side of a news slot, for example.