Virgin Media TV Powered by TiVo

Sky+ killer in the making?

Wed 25 May 2011 // 06:00 UTC

Virgin has a TiVo user’s forum and the company seems to be taking note of feedback for its software updates over the coming months. Perhaps inevitably with a first-gen version, there are glitches.

Pleasant ‘peanut’ shaped remote, worth one or two thumbs up

An early batch had reportedly faulty hardware and some people say the TiVo’s SD quality looks too soft. This may also depend on the broadcast, the TV being used and the eye of the beholder. Compared to my Sky box, it’s about the same; compared to the V+HD, the upscaling isn’t quite as crisp, but to me this isn’t a deal breaker given the increasing number of HD programmes and the 1TB storage.

Verdict

Overall, it’s an impressive and promising (re)start. While some people may prefer the familiar simplicity of Sky+, others will welcome this smart recorder with open arms – and thumbs resoundingly up. ®