Video Asylum

Posted by O'Shag (A) on March 20, 2007 at 17:38:23

I replaced my VIP211 unit this weekend with VIP622 DVR. The cost of entry is reasonable - only $140 with installation (they have a 'special' right now for new subscribers where the unit is free). The monthly fee for DVR is six bucks over the package price.

Important things you should know:

1. The dishnet DVR VIP622 function is brilliant. What goes in comes out with no apparent diminishing of picture quality. The functionality is comprehensive and the interface is very easy to navigate.

2. The picture quality is noticably better on the DVR VIP622 than the VIP 211. The image seems better resolved with a bit less apparent noise.

3. The other points mentioned above are just jabs but here's the knockout punch ; Sound quality on the VIP622 spanks the VIP211 - badly. The VIP211 sounds decent enough, but the unit I was using always seemed a little off to me. The DVR unit sounds a lot better. There is a lot more clarity. Imaging and soundstage aspects are improved considerably. The VIP211 does 5.1 multichannel DD, but not as well as the VIP622. But on two channel the difference is substantial. If you listen to Sirius radio from time to time as I do, you will be surprised at how good it actually sounds through this unit. I've previously been of the opinion that analogue radio still has the edge on digital radio interms of sound quality. I have now revised that opinion. As I hear it through the VIP622 the reverse is true. When run through my Musical Fidelity Trivista DAC, Sirius Radio comes pretty close to a decent CD player.

Bottom line - if you have the VIP211 currently - upgrade it immediately to the DVR. You will be a happy camper.