That was quick! After only two months, Microsoft and LG have abandoned DVR guide fees. Furthermore, those who have previously paid are entitled to refunds. The fee structure was originally $9.99 a month or $249 pre-paid for an infinite subscription.
At $599 a pop, the LG LRM-519 rivals the cost of some Windows Media Center Edition computers — which have not required a subscription. Even without a service fee, I’m not sure what kind of success these guys will have introducing a DVR with only a single analog tuner this late in the game. TiVo’s pretty much got that market segment locked up.
Microsoft says: As of 1/29/06 the Microsoft Program Guide does not require paid subscription. The customer will get free use when they buy the product. If the customer has previously purchased a subscription or pre-paid Fast-Cards, you may grant a refund of the subscription or Fast-Card purchase price.
I always thought this was an odd product… It doesn’t really do HD, it doesn’t act as exstender… it just doesn’t make any sense at all given it’s price point and add the monthly fee’s on top of that it was a nonstarter.
I also came across some more reviews one of which mentioned that consumers who sign up for a One-Time Microsoft Program Guide service subscription by March 1, 2006 are eligible for a $100 rebate from Microsoft, bringing the price of the subscription to half of major competitive offerings. Consumers who choose to pay monthly can save $36 a year compared with competitive offerings.
I got this unit a few days ago for $350. It’s just about perfect for what I want to do with it- burn DVDs for viewing on a portable DVD player on a 3 hr. bus commute. Tivo may be a little better, but has a subscription fee.