That is my question. I'm considering either a VS Ultra or a DB 500. Origonally I wanted the BD 500 because it always seemed very stable, and seemed to be up and running most of the time. I like Linux, so this box just seemed to be something that would work for some time. Lately I hear that support for Dream boxes aren't that good, so now I wondering if I should go a more conservative route and just get a VS Ultra. What do you think from a stability and ease of use perspective?

What do you think from a stability and ease of use perspective?

Viewsat is easier to use without a doubt. Dreambox has many more steps to set up and IMHO is not worth the extra money or time.

Dreambox basically allows you many more options in screen skins and programming- of which most testers will never use or miss.

Save money and buy the Viewsat.

Maxsat, change skins? programming? things testers wont miss? like a DVR or how about the fact that it has a card reader slot that can be used with a rom 102, or 103, what about streaming video over the net, what about updating through ethernet? these are all features of the Dreambox, and the VS doesnt offer any of them except the DVR at an inflated price, I personally own a Dreambox they are definately not a beginners box but after spending the time to set it up it is amazing, also they are up with autoroll and have been for a number of months well I hope this helps

I have both receivers and both Maxsat and hififry make great points.

VS support and corporate resolve is unquestionable. Downtime is minimal. On screen menus and epg are some of the best. Extremely easy to "fix" through serial null modem cable. Network is not needed. If all you want to do is watch tv, it is the perfect receiver.

DB lacks official corporate support. It is a testers dream as proven by the many excellent groups that design and provide support. All of the benefits which hififry mentions are true. Beware, however, that it takes a lot of time and it is a true hobby. Having said this, don't expect the excitement of the H or Hu days. It is by far though more of a challenge than the VS and requires a network.

My opinion: If you are going to use the receiver to its full potential go DB. If you just want to watch tv go VS.

My two cents,

george80

Having been with a DB since 2004 and gone through many different aspects since 2004 I truly like the DB's 2 7000's and a 500, as there are many knowledgeable people supporting the DB's as are other units.
I must say when you get a DB you can not be a DA. You need to read and learn the unit. But I believe if you are going to experiment with these FTA units you SHOULD KNOW your unit regardless of the brand. IF tv receipt of the pay type and is your ONLY substance then actually I would say Get a subscription as NONE of the FTA units are 100%.
We all like the aspect of I guess what some would call FREE TV but is it FREE Break the STB unit out by the month is it FREE?
I like others do it for a hobby and fun, if it's down it's down and I still have fun messing around with it cause it is a hobby.

Anything said beyond it's a FTA Receiver is really just that Something SAID!

pdwsr