It's seems it'll work from my online research, but the guy at circuit city was sure that it doesn't work without the subscription. I just need the basic manual record option, not the channel guides, etc.
2006-12-03 04:47:49 · 3 answers · asked by rdubya 1 in Consumer Electronics ➔ TiVO & DVRs
No, you cannot use the Tivo without a subscription. It locks everything out, if you don't have a subscription. It checks your subscription through phone lines or broadband internet connection.
Also, you can only get the Tivo for free, if you have a minimum of a 1 year subscription. Those are the rebate terms.
If you are looking for a DVR solution without subscriptions, then you are looking for a Media Center PC. You pay alot up front ($500+), but you save money in the long term.
Also, a DVD-Recordable would be the other solution. More cumbersome because you are recording on a disc rather than a hard drive, but cheaper solution than Media Center.
2006-12-03 05:00:33 · answer #1 · answered by techman2000 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
No. Tivo used to work without service but had to be manually programmed to record but that is no longer an option. When you first connect it it will walk you through subscription/programming steps and won't do anything till you are done. It's possible that if you can find a series 1 TiVo you can make it work. Besides the factory rebate will require a subscription to qualify.
2006-12-03 05:01:31 · answer #2 · answered by Theaterhelp 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Make sure when you get it, it says TiVo and not DVR. There is a difference. TiVo is better and easier to use. And you need service no matter where you buy one.
I love my TiVo and my DVR is okay but not as good.
Good luck. You need service for both!
2006-12-04 02:35:42 · answer #3 · answered by Butterfly 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋