First VIP 722 lasted two years. Other than rarely knowing the difference between a "NEW" and "ALL" recording (I suspect that is due to someone not properly denoting content rather than a receiver problem), it was a fine unit. Started flaking out, then died completely a few weeks back.

First replacement looked like it had been dragged over coals on the faceplate. Not really that bad, but all of my equipment is spotless, even the 20+ year old stuff, and my 722 didn't have a scratch, ding or even a wear mark on it. The replacement looked like real junk, and lasted just as long. Complete failure within 5 days.

Second replacement looks much better, but has quirks. If I watch a recording and delete it, then watch another, deleting the second program causes the unit to reboot. I have to have watched them both. If I just delete a couple of recordings, no issues.

The unit forgets my setting for the guide, Popup Vs button. Every day I set it to Button, the next day, it is back at popup (default).

Twice now, it has temporarily stopped displaying content. This lasts for maybe two to three minutes. I can navigate through the menus, change channels, go to the guide, etc, but all channels are black, no content, not even OTA.

Fan is a little loud. Not fast speed loud, but slightly louder at slow speed than it should be, enough to be noticeable when the TV is off.

Should I bother trying unit #4, or will they keep sending me junk? I like Dish's programming, and it's DVR (when working), but my wife has had it and wants to switch to another carrier. Any suggestions? Some way to get a new unit rather than the refurb junk they are sending me?

Are problems more common than not, and I can't expect to not have ongoing trouble?

Thanks,
David

I am not sure they actually make the 722 any more, so your chances of getting a new one might be very small. You could try getting a 722k. They might let you do it given your 722 problems and the option of cancelling service. The 722k has a separate and not included OTA module though.

I ordered new service a few months ago, and asked specifically for a 722k. They sent a 722, so I called them back and they sent a 722k with OTA module included free. It has worked very well so far, so I recommend talking them into changing yours out. Nobody beats E*'s DVRs, so you might have a hard time switching to something your wife likes better.

Definitely try to snag a 722k if possible. When I first switched to Dish, I got a regular 722 (which I still have). Coming from cable, I thought the box was lightening fast. The 722k I added to my setup a month or two ago is even faster. Little things like skipping timers and deleting recording happen even faster. I am absolutely thrilled with the product and heartily recommend it.

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