Low-cost HD directv/local receiver

[phenom]

I have two HDTVs, a Sony 51 and a crappy RCA 52". The RCA currently is run through a regular RCA directv receiver, but I'd like to go HD on it, without paying the $800 I paid for my Sony receiver.

What's the lowest priced HD STB that is compatible with directv AND OTA broadcast?

[Lowpro]

Hughes Network Systems High-Definition DIRECTV/Over-the-Air Set-Top Converter Box - Model: HIRD E86
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=1051806198057&skuId=4606368&type=product

Can routinely find this one "open item - complete" for $450 at Best Buy stores. Least the ones in my area. Regular going price new is $500. Have not seen many other DIRECTV-HD STB's out there at this price or below.

[mkass]

I have that exact STB, and I love it.



mkass

[Lowpro]

The Hughes HIRD E86 has a $50 mail-in rebate on it as well this week at Best Buy. That's $450 after mail-in rebate. At $450 it's not much above cost and under the employee price. Not bad eh. I'd tell you how I know that, but then I'd have to .... well, you know what I'm getting at. :-)

[darrinps]

I just won an auction on eBay for a Zenith SAT520. The total price including shipping was $525.

There is a seller on eBay (eLectronics4u.com or something like that) that has them for sale for $550 including shipping.

From what I have read, the Zenith is a very nice box (haven't received mine yet). They make the Sony (same hardware although Sony does tweak theirs a LITTLE).

Hope this helps.

[jbravo1974]

I purchased my Samsung TS160 for $519 including shipping. I got this from amazon, but think they have since put the price up to $599. If you search you can find this receiver for around $550. The thing that made me not get the hughes, was the fact it did not have a DVI connection. Not sure if this is something you need or want.

[phenom]

so how long do you think before one of these puppies falls into the $300 or so range?