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DISH Network ViP 722 Receiver/DVR Review

by Clint DeBoer last modified March 18, 2009
DISH Network ViP 722 DVR

DISH Network ViP 722 DVR

Summary

  • Product Name: ViP 722 DVR
  • Manufacturer: Dish Network
  • Performance Rating: StarStarStarStar
  • Value Rating: StarStarStarStar
  • Review Date: March 13, 2009 07:20
  • MSRP: $ 499
Specifications
  • Independently watch and record
  • DISH Network programming on two TVs
  • Record up to 350 hours of standard-definition (SD), up to 55 hours of high-definition (HD) entertainment or a combination of the two1
  • View and record HD over the air digital broadcasts2 on TV1
  • Supports Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound
  • Convenient On-Screen Caller ID3 with history
  • Widescreen Electronic Program Guide with easy search features
  • DishHOME Interactive TV for watching six screens at once and on demand entertainment, games, shopping, news, sports, weather and customer service
  • Free lease for NEW customers. Existing customers pay a fee of up to $200


Pros

  • Dual independent tuners/TVs (HD/SD or PIP)
  • Supports a backfeed for whole-home distribution
  • Record up to 55 hours of HD programming
  • Integrated ATSC and Dish program guide
  • Includes RF remote for Zone 2

Cons

  • Slow on-demand functions

Introduction

DISH Network brings an interesting take on the DVR with the ViP 722 satellite receiver. This DVR is a dual-tuner, two-TV receiver that allows 55 hours of high definition record time, or 350 hours of standard definition (or a combination of both). What's helpful about this receiver is that it comes with an RF remote control that enables non-line-of-sight control of the unit from other rooms. This means that while the HD tuner is used in one room, the system can be controlled elsewhere - like in a bedroom.

 

 

Recent Forum Posts:

Post Reply
anbleech posts on April 29, 2009 15:23
Is there a way to download on to another drive programs from my VIP 722 DVR?
nvmarino posts on March 22, 2009 20:44
I find the menus on my 722 to be for more intuitive and user friendly than the Comcast boxes. The icon based menus on Comcast boxes are horrible, IMO.

The new Sling Guide from the upcoming VIP-922 (minus the new remote and some other features) should be out for th 722 before too long.


SlingGuide is already out in beta for ViP 612, 622, 722, and 722k users - you can sign up at dish.sling.com. For the unacquainted, SlingGuide is a fully featured web-based interface for managing and controlling your Dish DVR. It can also function as a supercool way to control your receiver on your iPod touch or iPhone. In addition, if you've got a Slingbox connected to your Dish receiver (or a 922 when they come out), you can stream live TV or DVR'd content directly from the SlingGuide web interface.
Nomo posts on March 22, 2009 10:09
Thanks for finding the 55 "minutes" typo. I'm going to get in line to review the 922 box as soon as it's available. It's a no-brainer and should make for a really cool review. I'm also going to have Tom Andry review the new OTA DVR they have which I think is a cool product for those who are going the antenna route.

Clint, I'm looking forward to your impressions of the VIP922.
I'm not so sure I'm sold on the GUI. I hate touchpads on laptops and this what it reminds me of.
It's hard to imagine how well a Harmony remote will act with it.

http://www.slingcommunity.com/article/32856/Dish-Network-ViP-922-SlingLoaded-DVR-Demonstration-2009-International-CES/ [slingcommunity.com]
Warpdrv posts on March 19, 2009 11:06
I am curious, does the Dish 722 receive content as 720p or 1080i?

How can I tell...?

I just my 65" Panny pz850 yesterday, and I would imagine the scaler in the panny is better then the Dish receiver and it automatically upconverts everything to 1080p that isn't.

I'll be using the scaler in the Anthem D2v when I get it, but that info will also apply to get the best results down the road...

Thanks
Clint DeBoer posts on March 18, 2009 15:21
Thanks for finding the 55 "minutes" typo. I'm going to get in line to review the 922 box as soon as it's available. It's a no-brainer and should make for a really cool review. I'm also going to have Tom Andry review the new OTA DVR they have which I think is a cool product for those who are going the antenna route.
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