Genie + 3 Mini Genies vs. separate HD receivers?

[mr3p]

Re-evaluating my current provider options and looking at Genie and just wondering how picture quality and overall reliability of mini Genie compared to separate HD receiver. 5 HDTVs total, at least 3 need DVR although 4 or 5 OK. Also considering Hopper/Joey but its challenging to figure out and compare.

Thanks in Advance

 

[jcrandall]

Picture quality is the same, but the mini-clients are generally slower. So starting a program may take a few extra seconds, as well as changing channels, even responding to fast forward.

I've tried both and for a room that gets significant use I'd get a HD receiver at an extra cost. For a room that gets occasional use, I'd take the free client.

A combination may be optimal, as watching live TV on a client takes a tuner from your Genie.