Everything You Need To Build A Tivo-Killing DVR
Do you want to build a DVR that outperforms Tivo and costs less up front and is free of monthly charges? I did it. And here’s how you can too.
Main Computer
Find a used PC to start with. I took my fiance’s computer that needed a new hard drive (which I would have replaced anyway). This saves you from buying a processor, case, motherboard, etc. Naturally, you can upgrade any of these components later on. And for these upgrades, eBay is the place to look.
Hard Drive
Most Tivo’s have a 120gb hard drive. And the biggest drive you can get with a Tivo is 250gb. Unfortunately, that Tivo costs $800! On eBay you can grab a new 300gb hd for between $50 and $80.
Hard Drive: $70, Total $70
Video Card
A simple, cheap video card will serve you fine. Just make sure it has the video output you want. Steer clear of massive, expensive video cards as these only add noise, heat, and cost (gamers, of course, may want to splurge on something powerful). You can grab a video card for $5 - $20 on eBay.
Video Card: $20, Total $90
Tuner Card
Here’s how you get a TV signal into your DVR. I recommend buying a Hauppage tuner card. All DVR software supports their cards, they offer great quality, and are readily available. The PVR-150 is a great model to start with. They sell for $50 to $60 used on eBay.
Tuner Card: $60, Total $150
DVD Burner
Here’s something only offered on a few Tivo models: a built-in DVD burner. Again, eBay is your friend. You can score a speedy new drive for between $30 and $60.
DVD Drive: $50, Total $200
Sound Card
Your homemade DVR also includes a variety of audio options. Depending on your needs, a nice surround sound card could replace your receiver. Or you can just use an optical out and send it to an existing home theater setup. eBay has new 5.1 sound cards for $5 to $20.
Sound Card: $20, Total $220
What Else
What about software? Mediaportal does it all for $0. For recording TV, I use Beyond TV which, (depending on your needs) comes with a remote and costs $70. You can also get a version with a PVR-150 tuner card for $110.
With that software, you’re just under $300 for a DVR that burns and plays DVDs, outputs 5.1 stereo sound, and has twice the hard drive space of an average Tivo. Plus, you can load all your MP3’s, photos, and classic video games onto your DVR. Even better, there’s no monthly fee. So get bidding and build your own Tivo-killing DVR.