Which HR21?

[sansabar]

Looks like the bad storms here a few days ago took out my HR20. Since they seem to no longer be available, which HR21 should I be looking for, and do I have a choice?

[Michael D'Angelo]

I assume you are having it replaced through DIRECTV, correct?

If so you will not have a choice what you get. It could be a refurb HR20 or HR21.

As for the HR21's the only difference is the insides are laid out different. Other than that they all function the same.

[JLucPicard]

If you are going through DirecTV and you utilized the OTA capabilites of the HR20, you may want to make sure to mention that to them when you call. The HR21 does not have built-in OTA functinality, but the AM21 unit is the OTA add-on and should be available for $50 (if not free - that's why I say to make sure and mention it when you call).

[davring]

If you are relying on your HR20 for OTA, and HD locals are not available from D*, they should provide you with an AM21 for no extra charge.

[sansabar]

I bought the box through Best Buy (if I remember correctly) but still pay the monthly lease (like everyone else). Would D* replace this box for me?
My TV has a built-in tuner so the OTA HDs are not an issue. I may purchase the HR21 locally but seem to remember seeing versions like HR21-100, -200, -600, -700. What is the difference there, drive size? Just trying to get my facts together before I make the purchase.

[Michael D'Angelo]

I bought the box through Best Buy (if I remember correctly) but still pay the monthly lease (like everyone else). Would D* replace this box for me?
My TV has a built-in tuner so the OTA HDs are not an issue. I may purchase the HR21 locally but seem to remember seeing versions like HR21-100, -200, -600, -700. What is the difference there, drive size? Just trying to get my facts together before I make the purchase.

Yes DIRECTV will replace it and that is the only way to replace it. Even though you bought it from Best Buy it is a leased unit through DIRECTV.

As for the HR21's there is no -600 (that is something that Best Buy does to the model for whatever reason).

As for the other three like I said above the only difference is the inside is laid out different. Other than that they are the same and function the same.

Mike

[Jeremy W]

As for the HR21's the only difference is the insides are laid out different. Other than that they all function the same.
The HR21-Pro is pretty different from the other three...

[Michael D'Angelo]

The HR21-Pro is pretty different from the other three...

True. :) I wasn't even thinking about the Pro since the OP only needs to replace his HR20 not upgrade.

[CompiledMonkey]

I wish the HR21 still had the antenna hookup for OTA. Unfortunately local channels don't come in HD in my area. So I'll need to purchase the AM21 until that changes.

[joed32]

I wish the HR21 still had the antenna hookup for OTA. Unfortunately local channels don't come in HD in my area. So I'll need to purchase the AM21 until that changes.

Call and ask for one, they might just give it to you.

[CompiledMonkey]

Good idea. I'll definitely give them a ring. The CSR I spoke with when I placed the order said I'll be getting HD locals through the satellite but I've learned otherwise since then. They're coming out tomorrow to install the service.

[sansabar]

My bad HR20 was replaced with the HR21. I like the OTA HDs interfacing with Sat tuner/Guide without switching between Sat/TV. I called D* the next day and asked for the AM21 since the HR21 does not have the OTA tuner (like my HR20) and it was billed as a direct replacement. At first they said I could buy it, then they said I could buy an HR20 from a box store and be reimbursed by D*. I suggested sending me the AM21 - free - and avoid all of the confusion. They agreed and it is on the way. Took about 20 minutes on the phone with them. It was more principle than anything.

[CompiledMonkey]

I've called D* twice and each of the people I've spoken with had no idea what the AM21 was. Guess I'll have to call again tomorrow after the service is installed.