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What you see above you is a DIRECTV HR44 Genie DVR. It's a pretty rare bird these days. It's been out of production since about 2015, replaced first with the HR54 Genie DVR and then with the Genie 2. But, it's a reliable DVR, and so there are still some out in the field.

Technically, the HR44 belongs to the same Genie family as the HR54 and Genie 2. It has a slower processor than either, and because of that it's not capable of 4K programming. But, it can still be used with a Gemini, if you know the secret.

Here's the secret

DIRECTV's call centers will not activate a Gemini if you have an HR44. The official company line is that it doesn't work. However, that's not really true. You'll get a little slower performance from a Gemini attached to an HR44 but it will work. If you're ok with that, there is absolutely a way to get your Gemini activated without upgrading to an HR54 or Genie 2.

For better or worse, this is the way large call centers operate. They employ thousands of people and their whole goal is to provide a consistent level of service. It's very rare to hear of an overseas call center employee who will go above and beyond to help a customer with a specific need. When you call them, all they see is that you have a piece of equipment that's been discontinued. They're going to want you to upgrade to something that has been proven to work. Honestly, for many folks that is a great way to go. But you're not "many folks." You're the kind of person who devotes time to your entertainment system and you want it "just right."

There's an option for people like you. The secret is that you need to go through Solid Signal. Our experts have ways of navigating DIRECTV's computer systems that will let us add that Gemini to your account, even if you have an HR44. The people at DIRECTV's call centers won't even try.

How come Solid Signal can do it when the call centers can't?

As DIRECTV dealers, we have access to the same computer systems that the overseas call centers use. However, we're also really focused on giving quality customer service. We don't take no for an answer. When the Gemini came out, our Signal Connect team scoured the systems to figure out ways to get them activated with HR44s. We found the loophole that the call centers weren't even looking for.

Whether you're new to DIRECTV, been a DIRECTV fan since 2016, or even if you've been with DIRECTV since it started in 1994, you deserve to get the best experience. And, you'll get it when you call the experts at Solid Signal. We can answer your questions, help with technical issues, and even recommend upgrades that you might be able to get at a discount. We're here to take care of you!

It all starts with a call to 888-233-7563 during East Coast business hours. If it's after hours, just fill out the form below! We'll get back to you, generally within one business day.


The post Can you use a DIRECTV HR44 with a Gemini? appeared first on The Solid Signal Blog.

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