When it comes to providing high definition television, higher tech equipment needs to be used than for standard definition shows. HDTV requires the ability to translate more lines of resolution, to utilize a 16:9 aspect ratio (instead of the standard 4:3) and to offer upgraded sound quality. That is why Dish Network needed to create a separate line of receivers for high definition programming. While the HD receivers are back compatible (they can translate and play standard definition programming), standard definition receivers are unable to handle the extra load of high definition television. Building upon the features of the regular receivers, Dish Network created two HD receivers to meet the needs of the customer.
Before comparing the two HD receivers, it is important to note that these models, like the standard definition receivers, share many basic features. The electronic program guide is such an important feature that most of us now could not imagine watching television without it. Other corollary features like the favorites lists and bookmarks that make it easier to manage hundreds of channels of selection are also included on the new receivers. Dish Network Satellite TV has also not excluded any of the features designed to make television more convenient. That is why you'll still find on-screen caller ID, software upgrades via satellite, and interactive television on the HD versions. HD versions also have the same parental controls as the more basic receivers with the easy password-access for adults.
What has changed in the HD receivers is the ability to play the upgraded television format and some new features that allow more access to multimedia applications. These changes are forward-looking changes that not only take advantage of the current changeover of standard def television to high def, but will make the receivers highly adaptable to new technologies in the future. Most important of these changes is the addition of Ethernet ports, USB 2.0 ports, and DishComm capabilities. These allow for such benefits as quick downloads of saved information and ability to access the internet through your television.
The ViP211 HD receiver differs from the ViP622 DVR HD receiver in a few substantial ways. Most importantly, the ViP211 does not contain a digital video recorder. For many families, using a DVR to record programming and to store it for future viewing has become second nature. These families will definitely want to avoid the ViP211 for their main television, though this receiver may be a great choice for any secondary sets. For people who do not care about using a DVR, this receiver is a good choice even for the main set- that is, unless, you are looking to operate two televisions with only one receiver. The ViP211 has only one tuner, whereas the ViP622 has two. This means the 211 has the capacity for only one television, while the 622 can operate two. Depending on how your household televisions are set up, this may be an important consideration. The ViP622 also has the advantage of being able to display up to 9 days of programming on its electronic program guide, while the ViP211 can display up to 2. Once again this difference may or may not be of importance to you, depending on your individual situation.
Because upgrading standard definition receivers to display high definition television required quite a few revisions to the electronics, the newer receivers are much more advanced than the standard ones. This can improve your viewing tremendously if you get the right receiver for your circumstances.
