Basic DVR for a Cheapskate

[willisrw]

I have had Dish Network for about 2.5 years. Currently, I have AT 120, and I usually add HBO when new episodes of The Sopranos are on. The receiver is a 301, and is used for the only room that I want satellite television in, the livingroom. I have been very satisifed with the service.

Here's my query. I have an interest in a DVR, and I would like to know what my least expensive option is. I have read that the 501 is a fairly basic model. I have seen these for sale on eBay. One of the descriptions said that this model does not incur a $5 DVR fee because it pre-dates the fee? Is this true? Is the 501 the cheapest route? I am aware that newer models would have longer recording times/more advanced features, but I would prefer to keep the cost down. Would there be any other fees associated with this DVR? What other models should I should consider?

Also, what is required to set up the DVR? Would I put the card from the 301 into the DVR, or does it require something different? Also, I have read about the DVRs receiving updates. I have never had my receiver hooked up to a phone line. Would that be necessary for the DVR?

Thanks in advance for any answers.

 

[Mr Tony]

The 501, 508 & 721 do not have DVR fees
The 501 & 508 are basically the same unit but the 508 has a bigegr hard drive (80hr vs. 40hr)
721 has 2 tuners

The unit should come with the card. You just call dish and swap the units

Reciever upgrades come from the satellite, not the phone line.