Can I Get a DVR Without a Monthly Fee?

There is one major DVR manufacturer, Moxi, that sells a comparable DVR to TiVo for an inflated cost, but omits the monthly fee. The larger up-front cost can save you hundreds of dollars over several years. However, some TV providers offer DVR rental with no down payment and the total cost of ownership breaks even after three years or so. The Moxi DVR is comparable to TiVo and service provider DVRs. Like those DVRs, it cannot be used to record video-on-demand services because of copy protection.

In addition to the Moxi recorder, you can buy something called a "Home Theater Personal Computer" that can be used as a DVR. A HTPC is very similar to a traditional desktop computer except that it is specifically tailored to handle media-centric features. Many HTPCs include something called a "TV Tuner Card" which can be used to convert a Cable, Satellite, or Over-the-Air signal into a video stream the computer can both display and record. HTPCs give you complete control over the DVR functionality and let you easily do things like backup, transfer, and copy recorded material. Additionally, you can upgrade the hard drive in a HTPC to add more storage space without having to jury-rig the hardware if you decide you want more storage. However, you may need to pay for TV listings for an HTPC to make it as easy to use as a DVR. Otherwise, you may have to program channel and time information to record a program--similar to a VCR.

You can build your own custom HTPC if you are willing to learn how to assemble a computer. Custom-built HTPCs can be built for a relatively low overhead price compared to purchased HTPCs and DVRs. You can built a HTPC for between $300 and $600 with excellent specifications for TV recording. Additionally, you can add more power to the HTPC to make it a good platform for video games, video editing, and web browsing.

If you have an older desktop or tower computer that you're no longer using, you can re-purpose it as a DVR computer. All you need to do is add a video converter card to the computer and install recording software. Windows Vista and later Operating Systems have built-in software that handles video converter cards for you. You should buy a new converter card because the Operating System may reject an older card.