Entered CNET Catalog: 05/24/2006
SKU: H20
Manufacturer: Hughes Network Systems
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User opinions
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User Rating: 
1/10
ALERT- H20 HDTV Satallite Receiver Fire Hazard
Pros: Nothing special just a run of the mill receiver
Cons: Poor picture reception, slow response
Review:
Last night my family and I were watching TV and all of the sudden heard a loud pop. Suddenly smoke started rolling out of the top of the H20 receiver. So I quickly went over to the receiver and started unplugging the power source and all other wiring going into the back of the H20. All of the sudden fire started comming out the vent slots in the top of the receiver. I quickly blew out the fire and took the box outside. Scary part is my wife and I were just getting to go out for dinner while leaving my 16 year old and 11 year old twins at home. I've been with directv for about 15 years now and have always had very good service frome and they say are imediatly sending me a new receiver.
User Rating: 
2/10
Poor quality reception, slow remote response.
Pros: It's silver with pretty blue lights.
Cons: Might as well not have HDTV with this receiver. Very poor quality picture, slow response.
Review:
I had an excellent Hughes HTL-HD receiver that I bought at Best Buy when I purchased my HDTV. It failed after two years of use. The local BB store didn't have a replacement so I called Directv for a replacement and was told by the rep on the telephone: "We'll replace it for free, but I have to tell you, you're going to be disappointed. The new ones we have aren't anywhere near as good as the one you have". How right she was. At least she was honest. The replacement is a piece of junk compared to my old one. The reception is fuzzy and the remote control response sluggish, at best. I might as well not have HDTV with this receiver. I would dump Directv in a heartbeat if I had any options (No cable, FIOS, or broadcast signals available where I live. Directv is a major disappointment! They should be sued. I'm seriously considering it. Anyone willing to join a class action suit?
User Rating: 2/10
H20 Directv Receiver Problems
Pros: There are none
Cons: run EXTREMELY hot!
Review:
DO NOT BUY THIS PRODUCT! Since it was new it has run EXTREMELY HOT even when it has been turned off for more than a day. I originally had it on a metal mesh shelf that was open on all sides and it was still extremely hot. I had to move the TV and Receiver to another room in a wooden entertainment center, it gets so hot I'm afraid it is going to damage the cabinet or start a fire, we have to unplug it when we go away. DIRECTV says "that I should purchase a new entertainment center with a built in fan. Even Costco wouldn't take it back they stated they will not except any returns of any Directv products. I just purchased the new H21, I haven't connected it yet, but plugged it in for an hour or so and it is cool as can be.
User Rating: 
8/10
they've work the problems out
Pros: works well no real problems
Cons: kinda slow in the menu's
Review:
been working overall very well on HDMI Problems anymore with this software update's picture is very clear overall im good to go with this model.
User Rating: 
4/10
When there are only two options...
Pros: I can't think of any
Cons: Bulky, Slow
Review:
When there are only two options, what else are you going to do? I guess you're kind of stuck with (in my case) either Comcast Cable or DirecTV.
Both suck, but since I got raped by Comcast between 2004 and 2006, I figured I'd let DirecTV have a piece of me as well.
In this day and age, I can't believe that the reciever itself can't be smaller.
Furthermore, I don't know if it's just me, but there is nothing worse than pressing the control and having a 1-second delay in response from the reciever.
Both suck, but since I got raped by Comcast between 2004 and 2006, I figured I'd let DirecTV have a piece of me as well.
In this day and age, I can't believe that the reciever itself can't be smaller.
Furthermore, I don't know if it's just me, but there is nothing worse than pressing the control and having a 1-second delay in response from the reciever.
User Rating: 2/10
Menus keep switching over to Spanish
Pros: nice picture & audio
Cons: Menus keep switching to Spanish
Review:
This thing is driving me crazy.
For no reason at all, the menus and other text keeps changing to spanish. At first I would change it back to English every time, but grew tired of literally having to do it every 5 minutes.
I found that it would just as magically switch back to English, but now everything is a mish-mash of English and Spanish text and no matter what I try I can't switch everything back to English. Directv has been of no help at all on this issue (I lease the unit from them).
For no reason at all, the menus and other text keeps changing to spanish. At first I would change it back to English every time, but grew tired of literally having to do it every 5 minutes.
I found that it would just as magically switch back to English, but now everything is a mish-mash of English and Spanish text and no matter what I try I can't switch everything back to English. Directv has been of no help at all on this issue (I lease the unit from them).
User Rating: 1/10
Wost quality and design I have ever seen
Pros: Remote worked fairly well
Cons: Pixelation, freeze frame, frequent reset, failed completely in less than three months, tech services were very poor, installation was poor.
Review:
Do not go there. DirecTV did not offer to replace the receiver until we asked to cancel our contract following almost three months of continuous service calls and the final death of the receiver.
User Rating: 1/10
This Is A Piece Of Junk
Pros: mpeg 4 decoding of new HD channels
Cons: The ATSC (local channels) tuner is seriously flawed.
Review:
First off, I am a DirecTv customer of nearly 10 years now. According to them I am a "Preferred Customer". I have always been an advocate of DirecTv over cable to all my family and friends and they respect my opinion as I am an Electronics Systems Specialist. It would seem that DirecTv feels they aren't making enough of a profit as they are now no longer just supplying a service, but are monopolizing the hardware aspect of their product as well. You can no longer purchase receivers from other manufacturers. The only Receivers for use with their system are of their own making. This is a serious issue due to the fact that the receivers they are selling are terribly flawed.
In particular, the ATSC tuner (used for receiving local broadcast over-the-air channels) has a serious defect. The sound drops out for approximately one to two seconds at VERY frequent intervals. Typically about once every 10 to 15 seconds. The result: Local channels are virtually unwatchable.
I bought two of these receivers from my local distributer. Both have the same problem. They are the ONLY receivers in my house (out of 5) that have this problem. I even ran two units ( the H20 and my older Samsung unit) side by side and the H20 has the drop outs and the Samsung does not. I can say without a doubt that the problem is with the receivers and not with any other component of my system.
I certainly hope that after reading the number of negative opinions on this unit that the federal consumers rights advocates file some form of complaint against DirecTv for not only forcing their customers to use their hardware, but also for selling such a defective product.
My own personal action is to cancel my DirecTv subscription and go with cable for now. I will await the coming of FIOS which will in my opinion run BOTH DirecTv and cable right out of business......especially considering the bad business they are currently engaging in.
In particular, the ATSC tuner (used for receiving local broadcast over-the-air channels) has a serious defect. The sound drops out for approximately one to two seconds at VERY frequent intervals. Typically about once every 10 to 15 seconds. The result: Local channels are virtually unwatchable.
I bought two of these receivers from my local distributer. Both have the same problem. They are the ONLY receivers in my house (out of 5) that have this problem. I even ran two units ( the H20 and my older Samsung unit) side by side and the H20 has the drop outs and the Samsung does not. I can say without a doubt that the problem is with the receivers and not with any other component of my system.
I certainly hope that after reading the number of negative opinions on this unit that the federal consumers rights advocates file some form of complaint against DirecTv for not only forcing their customers to use their hardware, but also for selling such a defective product.
My own personal action is to cancel my DirecTv subscription and go with cable for now. I will await the coming of FIOS which will in my opinion run BOTH DirecTv and cable right out of business......especially considering the bad business they are currently engaging in.
User Rating: 
6/10
Standard STB, no surprises
Pros: fast menu scrolling
Cons: when scrolling, it sometimes jumps two screens at a time.
Review:
Nothing special about this box. I use it on a second HDTV. I still don't like the fact that it seems to reset the entire box when I switch from SDTV to HDTV. Other than that, it's reliable.
User Rating: 1/10
Try and Call DTV about HDMI prob they will hang up on you..
Pros: absolutely none..
Cons: All that you can think of.
Review:
Used to work (HDMI) don't count on anything working too good on this receiver for too long. I hate Directv and they can sue me for getting out of my contract early. This is not technology it is not even akin to the first radio's (that came out in the 30's) at least they worked...
Updated
I really hate Directv because they hung up on me 5 times in one day...This little receiver is evrything technology shouldn't be. Enough said....
I really hate Directv because they hung up on me 5 times in one day...This little receiver is evrything technology shouldn't be. Enough said....
User Rating: 1/10
Everything about DirecTV makes me sick, especially this receiver
Pros: None to speak of except ability to get east feeds
Cons: too numerous for maintaing sanity
Review:
The FCC should get involved. I've been a "premium" customer for many years only because there's little choice for quality in the cable and satellite market. Re. the receiver, I had 2 wonderful Sony HD units that were also very user friendly until DTV by virtue of various software and probably hardware changes (actually "downgrades") prevented them from working anymore. As this HD revolution evolves, this and I think the other companies continue to herd us along the path of frustration. Re.the H-20 , my RF remote has a working range of about 15 feet even with the unit in full view! Often the picture on my 46" Bravia LCD is square, not even 4:3, and I have to fuss with the TV to get things in proper aspect. The response time is abysmal. The setup protocol is barely explained in the manual and the remote in short is garbage. I could go on for chapters about this company...their lack of knowledge of simple things, misrepresentations, absurd blackouts, on screen guide errors, etc. Whoever said DTV should concentrate on service not equipment couldn't be more correct. We consumers($$$$) desrve much much more.
User Rating: 4/10
OK but nothing special ... not worth the money
Pros: Decent picture
Cons: SLOW and way too few channels at present
Review:
I upgraded to the H20 from the standard DirecTV receiver and have regretted it from day one. The regret is equal between the receiver itself, the installation, and the service.
Installation - the installer was NOT good, was about 6 hours late arriving due to their being short staffed, left all kinds of spare parts laying in the driveway when he left, and hooked up the unit using a standard cable rather than properly to actually be able to access HD. My wife was the only one home when he installed and he absolutely did nothing to show her what he was doing or how to work the system.
Receiver - Nothing special and very fickle in terms of how it works. I'm constantly having to switch manually from letter box to crop depending on whether the original programming is in HD or SD. Changing menus from one to another is SLOW going (very frustrating).
Service - DirecTV was promising a ton of HD channels by this time and so far there are about 10 or so that actually broadcast in HD. The service is certainly NOT worth the extra $10 per month.
Installation - the installer was NOT good, was about 6 hours late arriving due to their being short staffed, left all kinds of spare parts laying in the driveway when he left, and hooked up the unit using a standard cable rather than properly to actually be able to access HD. My wife was the only one home when he installed and he absolutely did nothing to show her what he was doing or how to work the system.
Receiver - Nothing special and very fickle in terms of how it works. I'm constantly having to switch manually from letter box to crop depending on whether the original programming is in HD or SD. Changing menus from one to another is SLOW going (very frustrating).
Service - DirecTV was promising a ton of HD channels by this time and so far there are about 10 or so that actually broadcast in HD. The service is certainly NOT worth the extra $10 per month.
Updated
Easy to use ... good pic ... have had for about a month and no problem other than it being S*L*O*W to respond on the menu. It takes about 5-7 seconds from the time you hit "select" until the time the channel actually changes. NOT good in that regard.
Easy to use ... good pic ... have had for about a month and no problem other than it being S*L*O*W to respond on the menu. It takes about 5-7 seconds from the time you hit "select" until the time the channel actually changes. NOT good in that regard.
User Rating: 4/10
Worked fine until the 3 month warranty ended....
Pros: Excellent picture & sound, when it works
Cons: Unreliable software;updates make it worse and worse
Review:
I've been a DirecTV subscriber for about 15 years. Unfortunately, the H20 is not ready for prime time and I've had many of the same problems as others have posted here and elsewhere. When it works, the menu and the AV are excellent. But, in the past month or so, the unit has started "forgeting" the memorized channels, all of the channels, performing random re-sets, and installing software updates. It's as if the memory part of the H20 is failing. Channel changing is painfully slow but not as slow as the menu refresh. I've spent hours on the phone with the "technical experts" at D* but they seem to be clerks who know less about the receiver than I do. I finally paid $20 shipping for a "free refurbished" H20 but it won't recognize 2 of the satellites. I'm not willing to re-up for another 2 year ride to nowhere to have a service call so they are shipping yet another "free refurbished" box. If I can ever get one that works, I will at least be able to determine whether the gremlins are in the hardware or the software. BTW, it will cost $100+ to break my current D* contract, but that's starting to look like money well spent. My advice to new subscribers would be to realize that there's no technical support for D* products. If you're comfortable assuming that risk, then roll the dice.
User Rating: 1/10
Awful Machine
Pros: Uhmmm..., let's see... NONE!
Cons: Unreliable, bad software, get's worse every day
Review:
This could be the worst piece of technology I've ever owned. I'm on my third box and nothing's changed. DirecTv says they're aware of the issues and are working on the software daily. I haven't seen a single improvement. It crashes every day. It's a crap shoot if it actually records my shows. It freezes on a regular basis. I've heard numerous complaints from other DirecTv subscribers. DirecTv needs to figure this out soon, or they're gonna' lose tons of business. They only reason I'm still with them is because of the NFL package...
User Rating: 
3/10
H20 does not have a capability that Tivo does.
Pros: Great HD Picture
Cons: Can not toggle between tuners.
Review:
I too am a long time Directv customer who was happy until the H20. The most useful feature of a Tivo box is that you can watch any channel on one tuner, pause it like for a commercial, and then toggle to the other tuner and watch whatever. When the program on the second tuner goes to commercial,you can pause it then toggle back to the first tuner. The program on the first tuner will still be paused. In other words, you can watch two shows at once by toggling back and forth between the tuners. If you have Tivo, you know that.
With the H20, you can not toggle between the tuners period.
That is the "fatal flaw" with the H20. I do not know, but I am guessing that the togglbility feature is a Tivo patent. If it is not, then Directv did this so you would have to watch commercials.
I have had no problems with the function of the H20. But if Directv can not provide a box with togglebility, I will look for other options. I do not like the fact Directv offers only one choice for an HD DVR also. It is the H20 or nothing and that is not right.
With the H20, you can not toggle between the tuners period.
That is the "fatal flaw" with the H20. I do not know, but I am guessing that the togglbility feature is a Tivo patent. If it is not, then Directv did this so you would have to watch commercials.
I have had no problems with the function of the H20. But if Directv can not provide a box with togglebility, I will look for other options. I do not like the fact Directv offers only one choice for an HD DVR also. It is the H20 or nothing and that is not right.
User Rating: 3/10
HDMI + This box = Bad Experience
Pros: Easy set up
Cons: Incosistent Viewing Experience
Review:
If you wish to receive a completely digital experience via an HDMI connection, I would recommend you think of another unit. This unit suffers from screen black outs and resolution issues when hooked up to my LCD set. After trying 3 of the H20 receivers, all had the same problem. While I did not try component cables, I would imagine that would be fine. However, if you are paying for a digital experience, why would you bother? DirecTV finally admitted they are aware of the problem but there is no schedule on when they will fix it. I have since sent back all of my boxes to DirecTV and have cancelled my contract.
User Rating: 2/10
Piece of Junk
Pros: Decent picture quality, HD capable
Cons: Resets constantly
Review:
Directv better get their heads out of their butts. I have been a long time subscriber of their service. I was the first kid on the block with this receiver. I had the first LNB3 Dish available. I had the first LNB5 Dish when it hit. I stay on top of the technology curve. DirecTv will NOT acknowledge that there is a problem with this box. It continually overheats and shuts down. Then it goes into the automatic reset mode which takes forever to reboot. They have sent me at least 4 rebuilt boxes and they all do the same thing. My unit sits in an enclosed unit which has it's own thermal fan system so overheating should not be a problem. Even with the best fans out there this unit could fry eggs after a few hours. DirecTV, PLEASE get your stuff together and get a replacemeent unit. I will bail on you in a New York Minute. Respectfully submitted.
User Rating: 2/10
Waste of money - Junk
Pros: Nice remote?
Cons: Freezes/ Locks up
Review:
I have two H20 receivers. One works OK, the other freezes in about 30 seconds when on a HD channel. On a non HD channel it lasts about 45 minutes before it freezes. I then hit the reset and wait a few minutes to for it to laod back up. Directv won't take it back because it's over six months old. I would like to upgrade to the DVR, but I understand that's junk too. Any suggestions on a good HD receiver that will work with Directv?
User Rating: 6/10
HDTV, great. Standard-def, bad
Pros: Excellent HDTV picture
Cons: Lousy standard-def picture
Review:
Love the HDTV picture. Discovery HD Theater is awesome, for example. I have a Panasonic plasma, 1080p. The problem is, standard-def chanels are not even close to being as sharp as they were when I had a 5 year old Directv standard-def box on the same TV. I can't believe the drop-off in picture quality from HDTV to standard-def.
User Rating: 2/10
Directv H20 HDTV Sat. Receiver
Pros: I have no pros
Cons: audio, pixelation, no picuture at all
Review:
I have been a long time Direct TV customer and very satisfied until 8 months ago when I purchaed a Samsung HDTV LN-S3251D. I was told by the salesman at Best Buy that this was the best 37 in HDTV. At that time I purchased an Direct TV H20 HDTV Sat. Rec. then my problems began. I have gotten severe pixelation, audio is not in sync with the video, popping sounds and then audio goes out from 5-15 sec. and then comes back on. TV screen goes black and then says searching for satellite and that happened 7 times in one hour program. I have made numerous calls to Direct TV and the problems are still not resolved. It was not disclosed to me at the time of purchase that they were having software issues with the receiver and certain brands of HDTV's of which Samsung is one. They have replaced the receiver 3 times and the problems still exist. I am paying an additional 10.00 mo. for a service that I can't use. It was not until a company that has been contracted by Direct TV to do their installation and repair work that I was told about the sofeware issues. They said that their company gets the complaints and not Direct TV as their company name is on the customer receipts. The company said they have had numerous complaints and they were addressing those with Direct TV. Finally after over 20 calls to Direct TV I was told by a supervisor that they did have a software problem and they are working on it! Meanwhile all Direct TV customers that are having these problems are still paying a monthly charge for HD programming. I have not gotten the sound or picture quality that I expect. Now I turn it over to an attorney. Maybe they will take notice and not sell a product that they know is inferior and not compatable with certain TV software.
User Rating: 2/10
This thing is crap
Pros: Are there any?
Cons: Too many to list
Review:
Been a DirecTV customer for 10 years. I was very happy with my H10 DVR box, but since my TV was 19 years old, I bit the bullet and upgraded to a brand new Sony Bravia XBR 46" HD LCD. This obviously required an upgrade to the H20 DVR box, and that is where my trouble started.
The technician showed up to install, and the first words out of his mouth to me were "I just want to warn you, you are going from a very stable receiver a dish, to a receiver and dish that is going to give you nothing but problems. So don't say I didn't warn you". Just what you want to hear when you've plunked down a ton of cash on a new tv, and another $200 on the DirecTV equipment.
The installer left before set up was complete, and after spending the better part of 90 minutes on the phone with a representative, we finally got the box set up and working. Only problem was, the sound on any HD channel was chirping, almost as if the audio was signal skipping.
After trying everything in the book to fix it, they finally agreed to send me a new box (this after another 60 minutes on the phone, and being transferred 4 times).
I received the new box, spent the obligatory 60 minutes on the phone with a rep setting it up, and it appeared to be working fine. However, two weeks later, more fun started.
First, on any local broadcast in HD, the signal freezes, without warning, multiple times per hour. It will then simply pick up where it left off. However, once in awhile, it will lock and and never continue, forcing me to have to hit the reset button, which by the way takes about 10 minutes to complete.
In addition, the local HD channels also signal skip horribly, to the point where shows are unwatchable.
I have also found that watching recorded HD shows from the hard drive will skip and/or lockup for no reason, at any given time.
And last but not least, the receiver becomes unresponsive to the remote for absolutely no reason. For instance, last night I clicked "Guide", and it left me a the menu to select All Channels, Sports, Movies, etc.. When I tried to scroll down, it wouldn't move, even though the light on the remote was blinking each time I hit the button. I finally had to walk to the box and click the buttons manually.
Overall, I am stunned that DirecTV would allow a product this lousy to bear its name. The two previous receivers and dish's I had were virtually trouble free, and this one, which is a replacement receiver as it is, is nothing but trouble.
You have been warned.
The technician showed up to install, and the first words out of his mouth to me were "I just want to warn you, you are going from a very stable receiver a dish, to a receiver and dish that is going to give you nothing but problems. So don't say I didn't warn you". Just what you want to hear when you've plunked down a ton of cash on a new tv, and another $200 on the DirecTV equipment.
The installer left before set up was complete, and after spending the better part of 90 minutes on the phone with a representative, we finally got the box set up and working. Only problem was, the sound on any HD channel was chirping, almost as if the audio was signal skipping.
After trying everything in the book to fix it, they finally agreed to send me a new box (this after another 60 minutes on the phone, and being transferred 4 times).
I received the new box, spent the obligatory 60 minutes on the phone with a rep setting it up, and it appeared to be working fine. However, two weeks later, more fun started.
First, on any local broadcast in HD, the signal freezes, without warning, multiple times per hour. It will then simply pick up where it left off. However, once in awhile, it will lock and and never continue, forcing me to have to hit the reset button, which by the way takes about 10 minutes to complete.
In addition, the local HD channels also signal skip horribly, to the point where shows are unwatchable.
I have also found that watching recorded HD shows from the hard drive will skip and/or lockup for no reason, at any given time.
And last but not least, the receiver becomes unresponsive to the remote for absolutely no reason. For instance, last night I clicked "Guide", and it left me a the menu to select All Channels, Sports, Movies, etc.. When I tried to scroll down, it wouldn't move, even though the light on the remote was blinking each time I hit the button. I finally had to walk to the box and click the buttons manually.
Overall, I am stunned that DirecTV would allow a product this lousy to bear its name. The two previous receivers and dish's I had were virtually trouble free, and this one, which is a replacement receiver as it is, is nothing but trouble.
You have been warned.
User Rating: 4/10
On the fence with this one.
Pros: HD looks GREAT!!!!
Cons: Pixellation issues, low single, Hard Drive gets eat up quick!!!
Review:
I've had Directv for about 3 years now and upgraded to the HDDVR. So far i'm 50/50 on it.
The Good is this:
HD channels look really great and I am connected through the HDMI connection.
Sound quality has also been good, I have the DVR connected through my A/V receiver.
The Bad:
DVR does run HOT!!! If you get one forget keeping it in an enclosed entertainment center or if you do make sure it has good circulation.
Pixellation when watching show from the Hard Drive, have not experienced any pixel issue while watching live TV.
Satellite single is average at best, my hope is that when they go to 5 satellites later this year that will change.
Actual dish seems to not be as durable as previous models. My former dish was a single satellite one and I would never have a problem getting a single. We got a little wet snow here the other day and it knocked the single right out. This make me nervous what would happen if we ever got some heavy snow, also if it rains hard.
I don't know how many gigs it is but, the DVR Hard Drive is SMALL!!! I understand that HD shows will obviously take more space but with in the first day of having it I was already down to 75%. May not seem like a lot but times that by 2 people recording shows 7 days a week.
Final Thoughts:
I'm holding out that once they have all 5 satellites on-line that the single strength will get better. I will be keeping an eye out on how this dish performs and I'm kind of hoping (as odd as it sounds) that my area gets some heavy snow or rain in the next month to gage how it performs if it's still bad prior to the 90 period I'm going to have DTV come and move the dish. Beyond that I am considering purchasing the service plan in case something happens pass the 90 peirod.
The Good is this:
HD channels look really great and I am connected through the HDMI connection.
Sound quality has also been good, I have the DVR connected through my A/V receiver.
The Bad:
DVR does run HOT!!! If you get one forget keeping it in an enclosed entertainment center or if you do make sure it has good circulation.
Pixellation when watching show from the Hard Drive, have not experienced any pixel issue while watching live TV.
Satellite single is average at best, my hope is that when they go to 5 satellites later this year that will change.
Actual dish seems to not be as durable as previous models. My former dish was a single satellite one and I would never have a problem getting a single. We got a little wet snow here the other day and it knocked the single right out. This make me nervous what would happen if we ever got some heavy snow, also if it rains hard.
I don't know how many gigs it is but, the DVR Hard Drive is SMALL!!! I understand that HD shows will obviously take more space but with in the first day of having it I was already down to 75%. May not seem like a lot but times that by 2 people recording shows 7 days a week.
Final Thoughts:
I'm holding out that once they have all 5 satellites on-line that the single strength will get better. I will be keeping an eye out on how this dish performs and I'm kind of hoping (as odd as it sounds) that my area gets some heavy snow or rain in the next month to gage how it performs if it's still bad prior to the 90 period I'm going to have DTV come and move the dish. Beyond that I am considering purchasing the service plan in case something happens pass the 90 peirod.
User Rating: 2/10
Almost as bad as the HR20 HDDVR
Pros: Works when it wants.
Cons: Pixelation and audio and video signal loss.
Review:
Don't think you will do any better by upgrading to the HR20 HD-DVR. I have both I have owned the H20 since October. i thought I would upgrade to the HD-DVR in december and it is just as bad. I have Signal strength in the high 90's on both boxes and neither one works like it should. I am seriously thinking about canceling DTV service after being a long time customer for over 10 years. The HD is terrible. It is amazing when it works but the equipment is garbage from DTV. If your thinking about subscribing I would wait till next year after they add the 100 odd channels they say they are going to add, and wait till they get all the bugs out. I am not a DTV hater. I am just being honest. I love DTV but they have fallen short on their HDTV equipment.
User Rating: 1/10
DOA and it s OK to send it out like this
Pros: HDMI and OTA antenna
Cons: DOA and there is a likely chance that your replacement will be to
Review:
I just order my box last week but it was DOA the installer was having problems with it during setup. The box would freeze during the satellite signal test. After three times I suggested that there was something wrong wit my box but he said it justed need to be reseted. Well an hour after he left the box frozen. The time stayed still for 45 min and the picture was a grey screen. I called Directv they where fully aware of the issues of this box and sent me a new on in 2 days; but what angers me is that they are aware of this being a common problem but yet they still sell this product anyway.
User Rating: 6/10
Could be better
Pros: Nice HD output, easy to use
Cons: very slow menu navigation, random pixellation
Review:
I have had DirecTV service for about 14 months now. I upgraded to HD service when I bought my HDTV in July 2006. I find the box on a whole easy to use, but I still think it could be better. I often end up on the wrong channel or menu screen because the menu navigation is painfully slow, like the highlight will move after more than 1 second has passed since I pressed the button on the remote control. Doesn't sound like a big deal, until you experience it over and over again. The random pixellation is just somewhat annoying. It happens very randomly, no matter what HD channel you're on. Yeah, it only happens on the HD channels. Whether it is a super clear sky or not, it occurs and only lasts between 1-3 seconds. I don't have mine plugged into a phone line, so I can't order programming by remote, nor have a DVR. I don't see why they are yet to incorporate these abilities using broadband internet connections, rather than phone lines. After these issues are addressed and corrected, I believe DirecTV might finally have a worthy product.
User Rating: 
7/10
So far, so good.
Pros: Ease of menu functions, set-up
Cons: None at the moment.
Review:
I have been a Directv customer for over 5 years and have been satisfied with the service. I recently purchased a Samsung LCD 1080p for my bedroom and decided to upgrade the service to HD.
After reading the negative reviews of this product, I was hesitant to give it a try. Luckily, so far so good. I have had the receiver for a couple of weeks and have not encountered any problems. I am also using an HDMI cable with no problems. The only caveat is that the receiver is not on my primary TV and does not get heavy use. Not sure if that would effect its performance, but I do not have any problems at the moment. I will update if things change!
After reading the negative reviews of this product, I was hesitant to give it a try. Luckily, so far so good. I have had the receiver for a couple of weeks and have not encountered any problems. I am also using an HDMI cable with no problems. The only caveat is that the receiver is not on my primary TV and does not get heavy use. Not sure if that would effect its performance, but I do not have any problems at the moment. I will update if things change!
User Rating: 2/10
Run Away Fast
Pros: It can recieve local channels in HD from DirecTV
Cons: Just about everything is bad
Review:
I am a 10 year customer of DirecTV and had been happy till 1 year ago when I got the H-20. There is terrible freeze frame & pixilzation problem on satellite local channels and had to go back to my attic antennas. Pixilzation on other channels. They have sent 4 receivers, one didn't work at all and the other three are exactly the same. Picture and Audio cut out for 1-3 seconds 10-15 times an hour. They made a local TV channel's consumer affairs report because of the flood of same complaints. DON'T BUY IT. PS Have an RCA in another room that works fine, but doesn't receive local HD Channels from DirecTV. Don't get dupped by DirectTV's claim they can now deliver local channels in HD.
User Rating: 2/10
DON'T WASTE YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY
Pros: has a good connections in back for component
Cons: HDMI inputs will not work
Review:
This reciever will never be fixed. It has major software issues that can't be solved over night. I am probably going to cancel my service because this is just garbage, and it's pretty much the only reciever for 1080 HD for Directv ( Good luck on getting the H20 with DVR combo, Directv doesn't even have them in stock).
I love electornics and gadgets. I am outgoing, fun person, but deep down inside I'm also a geek
. And when I see a bad product I know it. First of all I am a Sprint Technical Support Specialist, so it's my job to keep current on technology. I just recently purchased a Samsung DLP HDTV with 1080p resolution. Love it. I figured ok, Directv is claiming they have 1080i resolution, so I ordered like a sap and patienly waited for installer. He hooked everything up and guy left after installing in. The installer was smart and knowledgeable. But something wasn't right. I would figure he would have at LEAST some cheap HDMI cables, but he only had component. Didn't really think much of it at the time. I figured I'll just go to radioshack and get some gold-plated HDMI cables and hook it up myself. When I plugged it in, the picutre starting going in and out. Thought it could just be the cables. I got a completly different brand HDMI cables. Same crap. I HAVE JUST BEEN RIPPED OFF!
In and out, in and out. It drove me crazy. They told, oh yea their exact words, it's a software issue and I can only use component. Um... NO!!!! I DON'T WANT TO USE COMPONENT. I WANT TO USE MY TV TO THE MAX AND USE HDMI. They said ... sorry can't do anything. I am furious. Not only did they sell me a lemon receiver, but hey look I work in customer service, and I can GURANTEE they know this reciever is having major issues. So why would they still sell it? Money. Well I am too smart for their games. I had them schedule a technician to come out and try to fix it. If they can't I'm just going to tell the guy, hey take it all back. Cancel my service, and since it's under 30 days, no early termination fee. I am not going to back and forth with them for 2 years. I work too hard in a job so I can throw away my money. IF YOU GET DIRECTV, ASK THEM WHICH RECEIVER ARE GOING TO GIVE YOU.
I love electornics and gadgets. I am outgoing, fun person, but deep down inside I'm also a geek
. And when I see a bad product I know it. First of all I am a Sprint Technical Support Specialist, so it's my job to keep current on technology. I just recently purchased a Samsung DLP HDTV with 1080p resolution. Love it. I figured ok, Directv is claiming they have 1080i resolution, so I ordered like a sap and patienly waited for installer. He hooked everything up and guy left after installing in. The installer was smart and knowledgeable. But something wasn't right. I would figure he would have at LEAST some cheap HDMI cables, but he only had component. Didn't really think much of it at the time. I figured I'll just go to radioshack and get some gold-plated HDMI cables and hook it up myself. When I plugged it in, the picutre starting going in and out. Thought it could just be the cables. I got a completly different brand HDMI cables. Same crap. I HAVE JUST BEEN RIPPED OFF!In and out, in and out. It drove me crazy. They told, oh yea their exact words, it's a software issue and I can only use component. Um... NO!!!! I DON'T WANT TO USE COMPONENT. I WANT TO USE MY TV TO THE MAX AND USE HDMI. They said ... sorry can't do anything. I am furious. Not only did they sell me a lemon receiver, but hey look I work in customer service, and I can GURANTEE they know this reciever is having major issues. So why would they still sell it? Money. Well I am too smart for their games. I had them schedule a technician to come out and try to fix it. If they can't I'm just going to tell the guy, hey take it all back. Cancel my service, and since it's under 30 days, no early termination fee. I am not going to back and forth with them for 2 years. I work too hard in a job so I can throw away my money. IF YOU GET DIRECTV, ASK THEM WHICH RECEIVER ARE GOING TO GIVE YOU.
User Rating: 6/10
Overall good product, but needs some tweaks to be great.
Pros: Fairly easy to use. Nice HD picture.
Cons: HDMI jack faulty on first receiver. Low signal strength
Review:
After buying a new HDTV, I upgraded my Directv subscription with the H20. Excellent service by the technician who provided a wall drop free of charge. After setting up box, immediatley noticed that when watching any channel through the HDMI cable provided, the picture would cut in and out. Purchased a Monter Cable 600 series thinking that it was a bad cable. Same problem with new cable. Component cable works fine, which led me to believe that the HDMI jack on the receiver was bad. Called Directv and after being transfered to 4 different people and an hour on the phone, they decided to mail me a new receiver. Still awaiting its arrival. Will post more..
User Rating: 3/10
H20 DirecTV Receiver Problems
Pros: Inexpensive, but you get what you pay for
Cons: Pixelation and Sound Problems
Review:
I been a Directv subscribers for over 7 years with great results. Three months ago, I upgraded to the oval dish to get local HD channels. As such, I had to go with the H20 Directv receiver. The first one I got had significant pixelation, so I called and they sent me another H20. That one had less severe pixelation, so I called and they sent me another H20. The third one had loud audio popping on a regular basis (several loud pops every minute). So I kept the second one and returned the one with pops.
After being a satisfied customer of Directv for years, I'm quite disappointed with the service I'm getting with the H20. I never had any problems with the Hughes receivers I'd used in the past.
Perhaps Directv should stick with service delivery and abandon products. They're 0 for 3 in delivering a product (the H20 receiver) that provides the picture/sound quality I expect.
After being a satisfied customer of Directv for years, I'm quite disappointed with the service I'm getting with the H20. I never had any problems with the Hughes receivers I'd used in the past.
Perhaps Directv should stick with service delivery and abandon products. They're 0 for 3 in delivering a product (the H20 receiver) that provides the picture/sound quality I expect.
User Rating: 4/10
Directv can do better a job.
Pros: Love the mini-guide,great picture,and no need for over the air antenna for local channels
Cons: You can't use your active button, you can't scroll through mixes channels and the H20 over heats to fast.
Review:
Directv is add new features everyday like "What's Hot!" and this new receiver can't scroll and that makes it useless for interactive upgrades.I use love to scrolling the News mix channel after work with my D10 receiver.And Please don't keep the H20 On for long periods of time.It will over heat and the picture quality goes down.Directv has all the content I love,but their lack of equiment is a downer.
