Hey, a thread I can actually contribute to!
I have a Channel Master DVR+ that I got bundled with USB wireless Internet adapter, 12' HDMI and DVR+ remote (plus an IR extender that isn't in the bundle currently on Amazon- it isn't really needed unless you hide the DVR behind something).
Erm, let me just C&P my shopping list below:
Seagate Expansion 1TB Portable External Hard Drive USB 3.0 (STBX1000101)- if you get the bundled DVR w/16 GB internal, you can do time-shifting, but you need the external HD to record multiple programs (2 tuners) and store many hours of programming. Apparently HDs are the weak spot in DVRs anyway, so having the easily swappable external HD makes the pricey part of the DVR more bulletproof.
CHANNEL PLUS 2512 DC + IR Passing 2-Way Splitter/Combiner- I use this to split the signal from my antenna to my TV and DVR+, so if there is a third program I want to watch while I record two others, I can.
AmazonBasics Ultra-Thin Amplified Indoor HDTV Antenna - 50 Mile Range- I'm using this one with my DVR+, because I live in an area with good signal reception. This was the test antenna to see if I even got a signal, so if/when this dies, I will replace it with another Mohu... maybe. Unlike Mohu, the cabling is permanently affixed.
Mohu Leaf 50 Indoor HDTV Antenna (formerly Leaf Ultimate)- I like this at my office (no DVR), because reception is spotty, so I upgraded the cabling to RG6/U Quad Shield, to thwart Industrial Park interference. It's kinda awesome.
Channel Master DVR+ Bundle - subscription free digital video recorder with web features and channel guide (CM7500BDL2)- One of the reasons I chose this is that, like Tesla, the company sends out updates/upgrades over the internet, and even though I'm perfectly happy with what I got, apparently they are going to push out OTT Linear programming (Sling TV was demo'ed at CES, but they claim to be doing a bunch of free streaming channels, too) that will be integrated with the existing program guide (Rovi). Rumor has it that it will happen in the next few weeks. DVR+ already supports YouTube, Vudu and Pandora. I THINK that this is meant to eventually render other gadgets superfluous. Also, they have been talking about doing a "whole home solution", whatever THAT means.
I'm a bit of a Luddite, so this is my first experience with entertainment gadgetry, and I LIKE it! That said, I have nothing to compare it to... When the upgrade is released, I'll come back with an update.
No more Dish for me!
Happy Friday!