[MRinDenver]

I am enamored of the looks, size and features of the 21 Pro. And I understand the build quality (via Samsung) and the PQ are considered superior to the 21. No to mention the additional cooling fan that would help the unit when installed behind my cabinet doors.

Now comes the 22, with a larger hard drive to compete with the 21 Pro. Drat!

Since I can apparently snag the 22 for around $200, help me justify the additional $400 expense for the 21 Pro.

I think the only real justification is that I really, really would prefer to see the 21 Pro in my cabinet!

Any other good reasons to get the 21 Pro over the 22?

 

[Stuart Sweet]

If you need optical HDMI control or a control input from a serial device, or if you need a rack-mountable enclosure with extra heating, then I would look into the HR21Pro.

As far as build quality is concerned, there are plenty of people who are completely satisfied with Thomson-built receivers.

 

[bobnielsen]

AFAIK, it is no longer Thomson, but Audiovox.

 

[harsh]

If you need optical HDMI control or a control input from a serial device, or if you need a rack-mountable enclosure with extra heating, then I would look into the HR21Pro.

It is my understanding that the serial control can be accommodated on the HR2x series with the correct USB <-> RS-232 adapter.

I'm sure you meant extra cooling.

As for the build quality of the HR21 Pro, I'd seek a second opinion from anyone who had the power supply issue.

 

[Stuart Sweet]

Uh, yeah, extra cooling, that's it. I don't think it needs to get any hotter :eek2:

 

[DBSNewbie]

If you prefer the receiver to be rack mounted, custom faceplates are made by companies such as Middle Atlantic. This will make the HR22 "look" like it was meant to be installed in a rack, just like the HR21 Pro, without having to spend the extra $$$. (overall cost of faceplate + HR22 is still less than HR21P)

On a side note, anyone know off hand if the rack ears on the HR21P are detachable? Or do they come unattached? I guess I can do a quick search, but if any one knows right now, it would save me the trouble.

Thanks,

D

EDIT: Just checked out the First Look for the 21P and the ears are off in the picture.

 

[Thaedron]

Isn't the price for the HR21-Pro an "owned" price rather than the "lease" price for the HR22. Just pointing out that I don't think the $ comparison is truly apples to apples.

 

[harsh]

Isn't the price for the HR21-Pro an "owned" price rather than the "lease" price for the HR22.

The HR21 Pro was exciting when black receivers were hard to get. Now, not so much.

The primary reason to go with the HR21 Pro is that you get half of an optical HDMI system. To do that, you have to buy it (makes sense since the investment in optical HDMI is substantial).

The other attraction to the HR21 Pro was all the buzz surrounding the 2006 mock-up of a Pro unit which was to be a quantum leap above and beyond the HD DVR: http://www.engadgethd.com/2006/04/03/directvs-pro-hd-dvr-d-hr20p/

 

[MRinDenver]

The other attraction to the HR21 Pro was all the buzz surrounding the 2006 mock-up of a Pro unit which was to be a quantum leap above and beyond the HD DVR: http://www.engadgethd.com/2006/04/03/directvs-pro-hd-dvr-d-hr20p/

Yeah, I remember that one, two years ago! More and more, I am thinking I will just go with the HR22, and save the $400 -- unless the price of the 21 Pro comes down some in the next few months!

My thanks to all!

 

[bhelton71]

AFAIK, it is no longer Thomson, but Audiovox.

Off topic - but Audiovox only purchased the accessories division and the RCA nameplate from Thomson. But I am pretty sure Thomson still owns the manufacturing facilities they picked up from Hughes.

 

[Ken S]

If you're concerned about breaking a lease agreement the HR21 Pro is about the only receiver you can OWN and then open and modify. For instance you could swap out the 500GB drive and put a 1.5TB drive in its place.

 

[Chip Moody]

Don't know if you wanted extra confirmation, but the 21Pro I got last week came with the ears off...

- Chip

On a side note, anyone know off hand if the rack ears on the HR21P are detachable? Or do they come unattached? I guess I can do a quick search, but if any one knows right now, it would save me the trouble.