Analog television is becoming a thing of the past; it has already been replaced by digital broadcasting. Not all models support this technology, so in order to show high-quality channels, special set-top boxes were developed - dvb tuners. There are a very large number of them on sale. Many people don't accept much of this equipment, so our review of the best dvb tuners of the year will be most useful to them.
In this article we have collected the most popular products and collected all the necessary information on them. Additionally, there are some very important things to consider when purchasing these products. This is probably where we'll start.
What is a digital set-top box
A digital set-top box, also known as a TV tuner, or a DVB T2 receiver, is a device that allows your TV to receive and broadcast free digital TV channels. Simply put, the receiver receives a signal from RTRS towers through a UHF antenna and broadcasts it on your TV in analog or digital quality (depending on how modern it is).
No. 5 - LUMAX DV-3215HD
Price: 1,280 rubles
Another device from the LUMA brand. It supports DVB-C, DVB-T and DVB-T2 digital standards, and is also equipped with a bright display that shows the time and information about the channel being watched. You can control the set-top box not only using the remote control. There are special buttons right on the body. The menu in Russian has a clear architecture; there are two USB inputs for connecting flash drives.
The case is made of high-quality plastic with holes on all sides for ventilation. The main argument in favor of this particular model is a powerful signal. The channels are well received even in rural areas. The main disadvantage for many is the short power cord, but everything can be solved by purchasing an extension cord. Nevertheless, this is the best offer in the manufacturer’s lineup.
LUMAX DV-3215HD
Combs, tulips, HDMI?
How to choose a set-top box based on the capabilities of the TV? To do this, simply study which connectors are hidden on the back panel of your TV.
Modern TVs released after 2015 mostly have a built-in receiver. They can receive digital channels on their own, so a set-top box is not needed at all. To find out if there is a receiver, use the instructions for the TV or enter its model into the browser search engine. On the manufacturer's official website you will definitely find detailed technical specifications of your model.
Less new TVs have an HDMI (HDMI) connector. This means that the set-top box must have a corresponding slot.
Older TV models have either a “comb” (scart connector) or “tulips” - three slots of white, red and yellow colors (AV connectors). To work together successfully, you will need a set-top box with a second type slot. To use the set-top box with a TV with a comb, just buy an adapter.
No. 2 - Selenga HD980D
Price: 1,640 rubles
Many professionals recommend a new product from the popular company Selenga. The HD980D model is made of reliable metal and does not heat up at all during operation. Another advantage is the fact that the set-top box does not lose settings like cheaper alternatives. The quality of the received signal also deserves extremely positive comments.
To access the World Wide Web, you can use not only a Wi-Fi adapter. The set-top box has a 100-megabit connector, so you can connect the cable directly. The complete remote control has four customizable buttons, which will allow the owner to customize it to suit himself. All this is complemented by stable channel reception and an intuitive menu made for humans. According to experts, the model has no serious disadvantages.
Selenga HD980D
How to choose
Firstly, the choice of a digital set-top box should be based on your needs and the capabilities of the TV. The wide functionality of an expensive receiver risks being left unexhausted due to the failure of the TV. But you shouldn’t skimp on the console either.
For an analog TV (with “tulips”), it is worth considering simple TV tuners with a convenient control panel, a good signal and, preferably, control buttons on the set-top box itself.
For digital and smart TVs, the requirements for set-top boxes are significantly increasing. The TV tuner may also have a slot for memory cards for recording programs or movies, as well as for viewing videos and photos. It is possible to connect to the Internet via cable or Wi-Fi adapter. Then, using TV, you can visit websites and watch online videos, download games and make video calls.
Secondly, look at the quality of the console itself. Experts advise choosing a heavier receiver, since here, as elsewhere, the amount of metal is important.
Manufacturer country. Almost all TV tuners presented in Russia are made in China. If you don’t find a European model, don’t be upset, the Chinese factory assembly is almost in no way inferior to Europe.
What is the difference between receivers of different price categories?
There is quite a large selection of digital set-top boxes on the market. All of them can be divided into groups according to price category. The functionality and additional features depend on the price. The more expensive the device, the more functions it has.
The price of receivers starts from about 700 rubles and up to 17,000. The cost of an auto tuner is influenced by certain characteristics:
- Possibility of Internet connection
- Number of connectors
- Country in which the device was manufactured. The cheapest models are made in China.
- Ability to control the set-top box using buttons on the display
- The ability to record your favorite TV show or series to watch it at any convenient time
All the devices that the market offers us can be divided into four categories.
Budget series
The peculiarity of budget options is their limited functionality. They can only be used for watching TV. Such models cope well with basic tasks, but they do not have any additional functions. Budget segment devices will be a good option, for example, for a TV in the country.
Economy options
Economy class is located a little higher. Such set-top boxes have the ability to expand the number of channels. This is done using a special card reader. Another nice feature is that receivers of this class have the ability to record various documents on external media.
Average price category
The best option for active use. Their main advantage over cheaper models is particularly high-quality sound and video transmission. In addition, they have all the additional features listed above. A good option for those who want to purchase a quality device without spending a lot of money.
Premium class
These are the most advanced devices on the market. Set-top boxes of this class have a powerful operating system. Because of this, the functionality improves. Their main advantage is a wide range of additional capabilities. These models are equipped with an Internet browser. This allows you to view any pages from your TV, listen to music and watch videos from the World Wide Web through the YouTube and Megogo applications.
Attention! If you are sure that you only need a set-top box for watching TV programs, you can safely go for budget or economy options.
Connecting and setting up the set-top box
As you already understood from all of the above, the set-top box is connected to the TV through the slots available on the TV. To do this, you will additionally need special cables such as “tulip”, “tulip-comb” or HDMI.
We switch the TV to AV mode and go to the receiver settings. Click on automatic search, and in a few minutes we can enjoy twenty free TV channels in digital quality. For any questions regarding setting up digital television, you can contact the RTRS direct line - 8-800-220-20-02.
No. 4 - DVB T2
Price: 1,290 rubles
While trying to determine which set-top box for digital television is the best according to reviews, we came across DVB T2. Compared to its competitors, the model wins due to its clear and high-quality signal. It eliminates the common problem with consoles, when the image begins to freeze and crumble. The device supports FHD resolution and digital standards DVB-T and DVB-T2.
Other advantages of the model include a user-friendly interface, as well as the presence of a USB port and support for the MKV video format. The main disadvantage is that there is a delay in switching channels. However, users agree that given all the advantages, this point is not so critical.
DVB T2
How to connect a digital set-top box to a TV?
Modern television realities are making a smooth but inexorable transition from analogue broadcasting to digital transmission. More and more, devices such as digital set-top boxes-receivers are becoming part of our everyday life. Connecting it after purchase is not such an impossible task.
- For a complete and correct connection to the TV, you must have two types of cable. One of them is a cable that is familiar to us, an antenna (coaxial) cable (which already exists in the house), the second is an HDMI cable, to indicate digital format channels. We connect the coaxial (available) cable to the set-top box, and connect it to the TV with an HDMI cable.
- After connecting and turning on the TV's power supply, the green indicator on the front panel should light up. You need to wait a few seconds (about 5-10), so it will take some time for the device to fully operate.
- After this, you need to switch the TV mode to video input mode by pressing the corresponding button on the set-top box remote control (AV, “TV/AV”, “SOURCE”, “INPUT” or the arrow pointing inside the oval or circle). If the TV has several video inputs, then you need to press this button several times until you find the one you need.
- After the menu bar appears on the TV screen, you must press the OK key to automatically search for television channels. If the menu does not appear, it may indicate that the wires are connected incorrectly or there is a lack of power supply (need to be checked).
- After completing the TV channel search procedure, channels present in the digital range specified in the passport will be available.
- If the search for channels is unsuccessful, you need to check the integrity of the antenna cable and the reliability of its connection to the set-top box socket.
We also recommend watching the video instructions on connecting and setting up a TV set-top box:
Which receiver is better to buy and choose for digital television?
To solve the question of how to buy a good digital set-top box, you need to decide on the set of functions that you want to get from the device. There is no point in overpaying for extra ones, but if you don’t have something you need, it will cause discomfort.
The following functions are most in demand:
- video recording (you need to check the availability of a USB port);
- HD (high definition video) support;
- the ability to switch channels from the remote control and from the device itself (needed if the remote control is lost or the battery is dead);
- availability of a standard set of interfaces.
In addition to those listed, each model may have a highlight that is worth paying extra for. For example, the ability to connect cable TV. But when choosing a receiver, you need to focus on its main function - high-quality reception of free digital broadcasting channels.
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STARWIND CT-100
A budget tuner of domestic production that supports DVB-T/DVB-T2, DVB-C standards. Receives terrestrial, digital and cable television signals in the maximum Full HD resolution. It has connectors: antenna input - 2 USB (1 - front and 1 - rear), HDMI, composite power supply input for 5v. Control - remote control and buttons on the case. Additional options: radio, teletext, program guide, recording on a flash drive, including with a time shift or timer, parental control. Price - 790 rubles.
Pros:
- price;
- compactness (115×23×65 mm);
- easy setup;
- recording and playing video from a flash drive;
- connection via RCA or HDMI.
Minuses:
- sometimes freezes (solved by disconnecting from the network);
- No HDMI cable included;
- no display;
- does not support AC3;
- short power supply cable;
- small remote control.
The most affordable device with the necessary functionality, showing surprisingly stable signal reception. Yandex users. Based on this criterion, the market rated it 4.9 points out of 5. But residents of rural areas need to test the tuner before purchasing or immediately buy a more expensive model, for example, D-COLOR DC1301HD or Selenga HD950D: they more confidently receive a signal at a great distance from the repeater .
Cadena CDT-1712
Our tests have shown that the Cadena CDT-1712 digital set-top box not only transmits a high-quality signal, but is also easy to use due to its equipped LED operation indicator, due to the compact location of all the necessary outputs on the body, a clear and simple menu... Expert opinion
The DVB-T2 Cadena television receiver compares favorably with its competitors due to its combination of good price and high quality. The tuner built into it provides a stable signal level, which guarantees no failures and a clear picture on the TV screen. It quickly and easily connects to the TV via a special connector. An antenna and cable for a digital HDMI connection are available as an additional option.
The Cadena CDT-1712 tuner works in several standards; this set-top box for digital TV DVB T2 is often chosen by music lovers, as it supports radio. As with most models, there is child protection. The device is considered easy to use thanks to the sensitive remote control, powered by the included batteries. The high image quality explains the maximum resolution of 1920x1080 pixels (FullHD).
Advantages
- Supports 6 video formats – MPEG4, AVI and a number of others;
- You can record movies and programs onto a flash drive;
- There is a delayed viewing mode;
- Works with HD 720p, 1080i, 1080p;
- There is a recording timer;
- Small dimensions – 105×22×65 mm.
Flaws
- No video capture;
- There is only one USB 2.0 connector.
The best DVB tuner models
D-COLOR DC702HD
One of the cheapest and most functional models, which is covered by a very long warranty period - it is 2 years. The tuner copes with its key function just fine. It is superior to similar devices in many ways. Its sensitivity is high even in cases of unfavorable operating conditions. In particular, it will produce a clear picture even if the repeater is beyond line of sight. The receiver does not support the AC-3 audio codec format, so most films will simply be played without sound - the exception is files with the extension .aac, mpeg-2 and some others. The build quality is quite high. The case has small dimensions - 12x10x3 cm. It is made of matte plastic, the elements fit tightly to it, no backlash was found.
All connectors are located on the back - there is an antenna input, a socket for HDMI cables, and a USB input. The remote control is also plastic, has a very convenient shape, all buttons can be easily reached without effort. The power supply is remote and also small in size. The device itself has slots on the body, however, when playing video through an external media, it may heat up a little, but this does not in any way affect the stability of the design. Through a standard antenna using a receiver, you can receive about 20 television channels and even several radio stations.
Advantages:
- Fairly low price;
- Compatible with any TV;
- Easy to set up and manage;
- High level of signal stability.
Flaws:
- The firmware does not contain the AC-3 audio codec.
D-COLOR DC702HD
HARPER HDT2-1202
This digital television tuner is capable of working with digital channels in DVB-T2 and DVB-T formats. Searches for and tunes channels both automatically and manually. If necessary, you can connect this device to almost any TV - for this, the rear panel of the device has all the necessary connectors: a standard antenna jack, an HDMI output, as well as a set of tulips for working with outdated products. In addition to playing channels, this model can play media files from external storage media, and you can connect not only a standard flash drive to it, but also a full-fledged hard drive. If necessary, you can record the broadcast; access to some channels can be blocked due to the presence of the “Parental Control” function. The device features teletext support.
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The remote control is very convenient, batteries are supplied with it, and a cable with tulips also comes with the tuner. The power supply is remote, it practically does not heat up during operation. The same can be said about the device itself. You can set it up for full operation within a few seconds. The picture quality of the channels is high even in the case of a weak signal: no ripples or twitching pictures were detected. The model's menu is completely Russified, which greatly facilitates setting up and using the tuner.
Advantages:
- Reasonable cost;
- Very easy to set up - even a child can handle it;
- Catch about 20 free channels and show them in very high quality;
- Does not heat up during operation;
- Long period of operation.
Flaws:
- The dimensions of the case are a little large.
HARPER HDT2-1202
Selenga HD950D
It is distinguished by its compact overall dimensions - a small box with a body made of high-quality matte plastic, painted black. It is practically invisible in the interior; dust and other contaminants do not accumulate on the product. There are several physical buttons that allow you to operate the device without using a remote control. On the top of the case there are quite stylish slots for access of fresh air to the elements. This set-top box is capable of working with such fairly popular formats as DVB-C, DVB-T, DVB-T2, and the image quality is very high - it will correspond to the Full HD format. There is everything you need not only to connect to the TV, but also to connect external storage media. The model has a teletext support function, and a delayed viewing mode is also provided.
Despite the fact that the device is inexpensive, it has the ability to connect a Wi-Fi adapter, which makes it possible to view programs and videos directly from the Internet. There is one USB port on the front side; there is also a digital display that will display the channel number, signal source and other data useful to the user. The set-top box easily reproduces most well-known video formats; there is an extended set of built-in codecs, so you don’t have to worry about the movie playing without sound. Television broadcasts are recorded in the .3gpp format - it is not very common, but it takes up a minimum of free space on the media and at the same time maintains good image quality.
Advantages:
- There is everything necessary for comfortable work; there are two USB ports;
- High quality of the output image – Full HD;
- There is a fairly clear and bright digital display;
- Reasonable cost;
- There is a delayed viewing mode for the program;
- Good degree of reliability and durability.
Flaws:
- There is no button that resets the device to factory settings.
Selenga HD950D
BBK SMP145HDT2
The tuner is available in two colors – black and dark grey. The dimensions are very compact - 174x158x42 mm with a product weight of only 370 g. All corners of the case are slightly rounded, which gives the design additional style and attractiveness. There is a two-color LED indicator on the front panel - in standby mode it glows red, and during operation it changes color to green. There is also a USB port here. On the back of the case everything is standard - three connectors for tulips, an input for connecting an antenna and a socket for an HDMI cable. This is the first model in our review today that has a built-in power supply, and the cable from the device is not disconnected. On the bottom side you can find four rubberized feet that protect the device from sliding on the surface. There are also holes for the cooling system. The basis here is the Ali M3821 single-chip system, which was developed back in 2014, but it continues to be successfully used to this day.
The design is reliably protected from interference. There is a built-in memory module with a capacity of 64 MB, and there is also another module for connecting to Wi-Fi networks. The remote control is made of plastic, which is very pleasant to the touch, it has an anti-slip coating, so it does not slip out of your hands. It has as many as 43 buttons, all of them are made of rubberized materials and are easy to press. It is very easy to connect and configure. The receiver is completely Russified, the system can search for channels both automatically and manually.
Advantages:
- Another affordable device;
- Can be set up and used even without a remote control;
- Works with all video and audio formats;
- Receives quality channels.
Flaws:
- Some users claim that the buttons on the remote are too small.
BBK SMP145HDT2
Oriel 421UD (DVB-T2/C)
The main difference from other similar devices is the remote control. The fact is that it has not only the required number of standard buttons, but also several programmable ones; they can be assigned various functions depending on your needs. The buttons here are made of rubber and are quite large. With their help, you can turn on or off the TV or the set-top box itself, switch to the video input, adjust the volume, and so on. The device menu is quite simple - practically no different from other devices. Another important feature of the tuner is the ability to work with the DVB-C digital cable television format. There are two USB ports, one of which is located on the front panel. The rear one is designed specifically for connecting a Wi-Fi adapter, but it is not included in the kit and will have to be purchased separately. The AC-3 codec, also known as Dolby Digital, is built into the firmware.
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There are three physical buttons on the front - on and off, two more are responsible for adjusting the volume and switching channels. There are no wires in the kit, except for the power cable. The power supply is built-in, which is very convenient during operation. The picture quality is very good - acceptable clarity, sound is clearly audible, colors are preserved.
Advantages:
- Stable connection to the Internet;
- Universal programmable remote control;
- Easy to set up and use;
- A large number of different sockets and ports.
Flaws:
- Slows down a bit when playing heavy files;
- It gets very hot when used for a long time.
Oriel 421UD (DVB-T2/C)
World Vision T62A
A very original model, which is not so easy to find on sale, since the series of products is limited. The control of the design is quite simple and intuitive - you can figure out the menu in a matter of minutes. The remote control here has various design and construction solutions, which makes it not only very convenient to use, but also very beautiful. He is trainable. Each press of the buttons will be responded to by blinking the power LED - you won’t have to check its functionality or battery charge. The body of the product is metal, which facilitates the removal of excess heat. On the front side there is a four-digit indicator that replaces the display. It will display the time or channel number. Here you can also find a USB connector and seven control buttons. The rear panel has a wide range of sockets, which allows you to use the set-top box even for outdated TV models. The power supply is internal, but if necessary, you can power the device through an external unit.
When you turn it on for the first time, the receiver begins scanning the airwaves without user intervention. On average, it finds about 25-32 channels, and all of them will be shown very well. The model is Russified, there is also support for English and Ukrainian languages. There is an electronic TV guide that will show the program schedule of the selected channel and the six closest in the list. There is a recording and shutdown timer function. There is a built-in adapter for connecting to the Internet; you can use the set-top box as an IPTV.
Advantages:
- A huge number of additional features;
- Built-in power supply, and if desired, you can connect an external one;
- Expanded number of channels;
- High-quality assembly;
- Metal body;
- Attractive appearance.
Flaws:
- Difficult to find in retail.
World Vision T62A
LUMAX DV-2104HD
Another model in our review, which has an extended warranty period of 2 years. The device performed very well in low-signal conditions. The design operates on the basis of a single-chip system MSD7T01, which is equipped with an integrated demodulator and built-in memory. The Rafael Micro R836 tuner is responsible for receiving the signal; it is covered with a special shielding casing made on the basis of aluminum foil. Today, such a technological solution is one of the newest on the market. This allows the receiver to work with channels whose signal is at a level of -85 dBµV. The tuner works stably and does not slow down under any conditions. There is an antenna power function, which makes the input signal more powerful. The model has a modern protection system against power surges and short circuits.
The design is also equipped with a built-in Wi-Fi module, and it has an original feature called “Lumax Cinema”. With its help, the user can watch over a hundred popular films in the highest quality directly online. In our review you will not find any more models with something similar. The front panel has a high-contrast liquid crystal display that displays all the information necessary for the user. This model is perfect for a dacha, especially if power surges occur there.
Advantages:
- The optimum ratio of price and quality;
- Attractive appearance;
- Very wide functionality;
- Large and bright display;
- Can work with any TVs.
Flaws:
- There is not a single physical button on the case.
LUMAX DV-2104HD
World Vision Premium
In third place in our ranking of the best DVB tuners is a fairly powerful model. A combined processor is installed here, which processes information almost instantly, and it is also equipped with a demodulator. Another important feature is the presence of an increased amount of RAM - 128 MB versus the standard 64 MB. There is not too much built-in memory here - 8 MB, but this is easily compensated by the ability to connect external media via the USB connector. The device can work with both standard flash drives and real hard drives. The model can work both in broadcast format and as a set-top box for IPTV. The design is characterized by the presence of a unique Web server function. With its help, the broadcast over the network can be viewed on a computer, laptop, tablet and even smartphone. The device comes with everything you need to connect and operate the product.
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The front panel has seven physical buttons, a liquid crystal display and a red-green indicator. All functions of the remote control are duplicated on the case. The top cover is almost completely occupied by perforated ventilation holes. They are located directly above the motherboard, preventing it from overheating even if the device has been running for a long time without interruption. On the back there are many different connectors for connecting third-party devices.
Advantages:
- Quite an interesting appearance;
- Can be used without a remote control;
- Expanded functionality in the field of working with multimedia;
- If necessary, you can reflash the device yourself.
Flaws:
- It takes a long time to load.
World Vision Premium - detailed review of the DVB-T2 and DVB-C receiver
World Vision Premium
2.Galaxy Innovations Uni 2
One of the first set-top boxes running on the Android platform version 4.2.2. The main element used here is a 4-core processor. The model is characterized by excellent performance and does not freeze at the most inopportune moment. The appearance is beautiful and very stylish. There are no physical buttons on the front panel, only a digital indicator. All connectors are located on the rear side. There are a lot of them, so you can connect absolutely any TV to the set-top box. The remote control has quite decent overall dimensions, but at the same time it is very convenient to use. The processor of the device is equipped with a heatsink, so the set-top box does not have any problems with overheating, therefore, it is able to work without interruption for a long time. The set-top box comes with everything you need to connect it. The remote control is remote, which also has a positive effect on the temperature conditions under the case.
The menu looks very stylish and attractive. It is possible to search for channels both automatically and manually. All the inscriptions are very clear and large - even a person with poor eyesight can read them. There is an expanded TV guide functionality, with which you can view the program schedule of the selected channel for several days in advance, study the announcement, and so on. The set-top box has a channel manager that allows you to change their places, remove them from the grid, and so on.
Advantages:
- Works with all media formats;
- Excellent signal quality;
- Displays high definition images on the screen;
- You can also watch broadcasts via the Internet;
- Expanded equipment.
Flaws:
- The device can only be controlled using the remote control;
- It is advisable to reflash the set-top box, otherwise there is a possibility of application failure.
Android menu overview part ► GI UNI 2 console
Galaxy Innovations Uni 2
BBK SMP240HDT2
The leader in the review of the best DVB tuners was the model with the optimal ratio of price, quality and functionality. The case has small overall dimensions - 132x117x32 mm, it is made of high-quality stainless steel, which is additionally reinforced with stiffening ribs. During production, it is painted with matte black paint, which gives the design additional style and attractiveness. The front panel is glossy and made of plastic, which is why dust can accumulate on it. There is one USB connector, there are also three physical buttons, a sensor that receives a signal from the remote control and an operation and standby indicator. The device works with almost all existing broadcast formats. It is capable of catching even a weak signal, amplifying it and displaying an image on the screen with Full HD 1080p resolution. The buttons on the case are quite tight and make a characteristic click when pressed.
There are quite enough inputs for connecting a TV and antenna. There are ventilation holes on the top and bottom of the case - during operation you need to make sure that they are not blocked by anything, otherwise the device will start to heat up and quickly fail. The remote control is small in size and the buttons are also small, so at first it will not be very convenient to use. The digital display shows everything the user needs.
Advantages:
- The case is very durable, metal;
- Built-in power supply;
- Excellent value for money;
- Easy to use device.
Flaws:
- Small buttons on the remote control.
BBK 240 - DVB-T2 receiver review
BBK SMP240HDT2
Cadena CDT-1753SB
Tuner from a Chinese manufacturer, popular on the Russian market. It differs from STARWIND CT-100 by the presence of a display that displays the serial number of the channel on air or the clock in standby mode. The receiver copes better with reproducing photos and videos from a flash drive, and supports a large number of modern formats and codecs. Does not accept a DVB-C signal, has 1 USB connector, although it is 100 rubles more expensive. Is it worth paying more? Let's consider its advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:
- price;
- compactness;
- easy setup;
- recording and playing video from a flash drive;
- connection via RCA or HDMI;
- LED display.
Minuses:
- The kit does not include cables for connecting to a TV;
- sometimes it gets very hot and reboots;
- switches channels for a long time, periodically giving the “No signal” error;
- short power supply cable;
- No HDMI cable included;
- does not support AC-3;
- small remote control.
It is difficult to definitely recommend this model. Yandex users. Markets note cases of manufacturing defects, and the signal quality is rated 4.6 out of 5 points. To justify the model, I can say that the stability of the signal depends on the receiving antenna. As with the STARWIND CT-100, you should test the device with your antenna and TV before purchasing.
Oriel 421D
Offers the user reliable reception of DVB-T/DVB-T2, DVB-C signals, a built-in browser for accessing the network and using IPTV (Wi-Fi adapter for these purposes must be purchased separately). In addition to standard connectors, it is equipped with a coaxial (SPDIF) output for connecting external acoustics. The weak point of the model is the media player: it does not play all formats. Price — 1390 rubles
Pros:
- appearance;
- functionality (access to online video services);
- reliable signal reception;
- LED display;
- built-in power supply;
- recording and playing video from a flash drive;
- AC3 support;
- coaxial digital audio output.
Minuses:
- remote control;
- the built-in media player does not support many formats;
- short power cord;
- No HDMI cable included;
- In Internet mode, it does not play all the content and freezes.
A good set-top box for watching digital TV. With Internet access, not everything is so transparent: the built-in browser is not very functional, and when working with online video services it can freeze and refuse to play certain content. Therefore, I recommend World Vision Foros Combo T2/S2. The difference in price is minimal, it also has problems with access to the network, but it is possible to watch satellite TV.
Reviews on Yandex.Market
TELEFUNKEN TF-DVBT224
Choice of Yandex buyers. Marketa. It differs fundamentally from the two previous participants in the rating in that it supports progressive scanning - it reproduces 50 frames per second, so the output image is more detailed. Supports the AC-3 codec - there will be no problems with Dolby Digital sound. Price - 910 rubles.
Pros:
- price;
- compactness;
- easy setup;
- recording and playing video from a flash drive;
- connection via RCA or HDMI;
- LED display;
- progressive scan;
- AC3 support.
Minuses:
- sometimes freezes (the problem can be solved by disconnecting from the network);
- remote control quality;
- short power cable;
- No HDMI cable included;
- 1 USB connector.
88% of Yandex users. Market recommend this model, noting that the quality of signal reception greatly depends on the receiving antenna. The price in this case is justified by the “omnivorous” media player. There will be no problems with playing videos, music, or viewing photos from a flash drive.
World Vision Foros Combo
The appearance of this receiver immediately reveals that it belongs to the premium segment. Slightly rounded corners, a large display, beautiful buttons, the shape of the ventilation holes on the case - it looks solid, unlike the competitors presented in the rating above. The functionality has been expanded by installing a GX660 processor and the presence of 8 MB Flash and 64 MB RAM memory. Internet access is supported via a Wi-Fi adapter (not included). The manufacturer recommends using Ralink RT5370 or Mediatek MT7601, promising stable access to Youtube, Weather, IPTV player, Megogo, DVBFinder. There are 2 USB connectors: you can connect an adapter to one, and a flash drive to the other. The receiver has 2 built-in tuners: one for receiving satellite TV, the second for digital terrestrial and cable TV. In both cases, signal reception is stable. There is no composite output; instead, a 3.5 mm (mini-jack) and an adapter to RCA are offered. Price - 1310 rubles.
Pros:
- appearance;
- functionality (access to online video services);
- progressive scan;
- reliable signal reception in all digital TV standards;
- LED display;
- built-in power supply;
- recording and playing video from a flash drive;
- AC3 support.
Minuses:
- small remote control;
- short power cord;
- No HDMI cable included;
- sometimes it gets very hot and freezes;
- not enough memory;
- capable of understanding a limited number of USB Wi-Fi adapters.
A multifunctional device from a well-known telecommunications brand at a reasonable price. It clearly outperforms the previously presented consoles in terms of both design and multimedia capabilities. If possible, definitely choose this model. If you want to save money, consider Selenga HD950D - the most budget set-top box with network access. Models work cheaper to receive digital TV signals, but reception stability sometimes leaves much to be desired.
Reviews on Yandex.Market
What to look for when choosing a TV tuner
Broadcast Standards
There are three types of television broadcasting:
- ethereal;
- cable;
- satellite.
All of them are presented in two varieties: DVB-T and T2 for terrestrial, DVB-C and C2 for cable, DVB-S and S2 for satellite. But if in the first and last cases the more modern standards DVB-T2 and DVB-S2 supplanted their predecessors, then cable television still has enough capabilities of the first version.
Please note that it is very rare to support all three standards at the same time.
Number of USB ports
It is extremely rare for modern tuners to do without USB at all. External drives are connected to such connectors to play video, music or other digital content. The USB port is also useful if the device supports Wi-Fi modules. The latter give the tuner access to Internet services.
Teletext
A function that allows you to display useful text information on the screen. This could be a TV program, descriptions of TV shows, short news, jokes or other interesting content. Initially, this option appeared in analogue broadcasting, and digital greatly expanded the capabilities of teletext.
Equipment
Simpler devices are equipped with only RCA cables. They are sufficient to connect to most TVs. But to connect the tuner to a regular monitor you need an HDMI cable. Make sure it is included in the kit or purchase it additionally.
LEXAND LTV 100
This is a digital TV tuner from a Russian brand that supplies Asian products. It is strikingly different from all other receivers in its miniature size. Country of origin: China. The receiver plays digital channels available in the Russian Federation. The device is equipped with an operating mode indicator and a USB connector that allows you to use the set-top box as a multimedia device and has a built-in multimedia player that allows you to watch high-quality videos and listen to music.
Main characteristics of the model
- Broadcast standards: DVB-T2;
- dimensions (WxHxL): 55x20x102 mm;
- weight: 0.066 kg.
Advantages
- + provides good image quality;
- + correct operation, without failures;
- + there is an FM radio;
- + quick and easy setup;
- + price.
Flaws
- - the remote control is outdated - you have to point it directly at the screen to make contact with the receiver;
- — there is no display on the case with channel numbers.
Best deals
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