Cheapest is not always the best - Depending on what you want. Try to buy a package deal to save on shipping.
I have a Traxis DVB 2500, a Fortec Lifetime Ultra, and I recently picked up a Megasat which is a Pansat 2500/Fortec Ultra clone I guess. The Traxis seems to have less delay when changing channels, but there is no blind search (called power search on the Fortec). The picture quality is slightly better on the Traxis, but I think the difference is small. I'd prefer the blind search feature since this is what you need to find the wild feeds on your own (but this site is great for helping those who don't have blind search receivers).
If you search the Internet for websites that sell receivers, be aware of the scam sites. Any site that sells "blackbirds", "silverbirds," "bluebirds," "pinkbirds" or and other type of "***bird" or makes a claim that the receiver opens up all channels is probably promoting the sale of receivers for illegal use (even though they won't admit it). Stay away from these sites. If you want DISH or Direct TV - pay for it
As for Ebay. I purchased my Megasat for $100 including shipping. I've had no problems with it, and the receiver came flashed with the legal version of Pansat 2500 firmware.
I also purchased my Traxis on Ebay. The satellite list is out of date, and there is a firmware upgrade to update this list; however, my serial port does not appear to be working. I have tried to contact the seller, but he is not returning my emails nor is he currently selling anything on Ebay. So you have now been warned that you can find a great price on ebay, but don't expect any after-sale support (unless the seller happens to be a reputable retailer).
Here's my must get list:
1. A 90CM dish - I have an 80CM dish and I have a problem bringing in NBC on AMC4. My dish is a Fortec Star, but many people like the Winegard
2. A receiver that does blind search and allows you to use a motor and diseq switch at the same time. I like to Fortec Star Ultra - good features for the price. The Megasat clone is cheaper (if you can find it) and appears to do everything the Fortec does, but the Fortec has more support. The Traxis does not support both a motor and switch at the same time.
3. A bracket to allow both a circular lnb and a linear lnb to be mounted. This will allow you to get the radio stations on the Echostar satellites that are in the clear. You can also get Angel One and NASA - both ITC. Of course, you could mount your DBS dish and feed it through the DISEQC switch, but you could not move to the other Echostar Nimq satellites.
4. A DISEQ Switch to run both lnbs through the motor to the receiver
5. A dish mover (motor)
Trust me. If you don't do this up front, you will end up doing it later. I went cheap to start, and now I have all of this. I've been doing this hobby for 8 months. I would have saved probably $50 to $75 dollars if I would have done a package deal up front which may include most of the items listed.
Moderators: I'm always careful to not speak H*Talk. If please edit if anything I mentioned is out of line. Thanks.
just want to know if it'll work. The dish is Round about 7.5" (not too sure).
