Tue May 9 17:58:30 2000
From: "Steve" sc*****@earthlink.net
Dear Smallear
Thank you for all your help with the Integra 815 STB I purchased from you
recently. Let me start out by saying that this receiver has opened up a
whole new world of programming to me that I was unable to receive on my
original IRD (GI 4DTV). I now receive High Definition signals from NBC,
ABC, and PBS. The quality of these signals is better than anything I have
seen either via an in-store demo, or on DVD. In addition to the HDTV
signals, I am able to pick up many channels that moved from analog to
digital, i.e. Fox Sports Arizona. Imagine my delight when I tuned in the
Diamondbacks vs. Dodgers last night! I used to get FOX Arizona
intermittently as part of my C-band subscription, but when they went
digital, all was lost. Now I can get about 10 regional FOX Sports
affiliates. In addition to the sports, there are many MPEG digital feeds
out there that are FTA.
On a semi-technical note, I am using the component (Y Pb Pr) output of the Integra into the HD 2 input on a Toshiba TW40X81 television. This combination worked right out of the box without any adjustments whatsoever. I wish I could say the same for my General Instruments HDD-200 decoder! Color saturation and balance is spectacular on this combination, and I'm sure one would have similar results with other RPTV's or projection sets. Sound, when available is in AC-3 (true Dolby Digital). When DD is not available, the PCM sound signal is almost as good.
When I first purchased the Integra, there was a definite learning curve until I got up to speed. This past weekend, I decided to reset the receiver to it's original settings and reload my satellites and stations. This took only about 15 minutes, and now my setup is very organized...no more complaints about how to set up the receiver. I would be glad to help others get over this learning curve via email.
I am receiving HDTV via satellite and via VHF (OTA) signals. Unfortunately, there is only one true HD station in my city right now, but that will change soon enough. The SDTV signals that I receive are very clear and stable. I look forward to taking full advantage of this functionality when it becomes available.
Overall, I am very pleased with the Integra 815. It does exactly what is says it is supposed to do, and it has been very reliable so far. I would encourage those who have a BUD (Big Ugly Dish) currently and are curious about HDTV to consider this unit. It will give them many options for receiving HDTV in addition to MPEG transmissions.
The one thing I'm eagerly waiting for is Monday Night Football in High Definition. If ABC decides to broadcast in HD again this season, the price I paid for the Integra will be insignificant when compared to the amount of satisfaction I will get.
Sincerely,
Steve