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We've cut the cable (8 Viewers)

ok im late to the game here.  What does Kodi do that i cant already do with my apple tv/smarttv?  I currently use plex to stream stuff from my Nas to my tv.  Also my tv has netflix, hulu, etc built in.  Is there some functionality that Kodi gives that i should consider it?  I have a firestick laying around that i dont use so i could probably throw it on that. 

 
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PinkydaPimp said:
ok im late to the game here.  What does Kodi do that i cant already do with my apple tv/smarttv?  I currently use plex to stream stuff from my Nas to my tv.  Also my tv has netflix, hulu, etc built in.  Is there some functionality that Kodi gives that i should consider it?  I have a firestick laying around that i dont use so i could probably throw it on that. 
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Kodi in of itself is just an open source media center software.  However, with the right addons installed it will scrape streaming sites around the word providing access to movies and tvs shows.  

For example, in your set-up, if you've ever downloaded a torrent file and streamed it from your NAS to your TV with Plex it eliminates having to do that.  Kodi brings all the same content to you in a stream and you don't have to download anything. 

 
tonydead said:
Kodi in of itself is just an open source media center software.  However, with the right addons installed it will scrape streaming sites around the word providing access to movies and tvs shows.  

For example, in your set-up, if you've ever downloaded a torrent file and streamed it from your NAS to your TV with Plex it eliminates having to do that.  Kodi brings all the same content to you in a stream and you don't have to download anything. 
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Interesting.  sounds like it does save me the task of downloading.  How reliable are said streams? 

 
If you are used to torrents then you understand when and how movies become available.  The same quality (cam vs dvdrip etc.) will become available at the same time on the streaming sites.  Similarly tv show are generally the day after they air.  Occasionally the streams become saturated and experience buffering issues, but, there are usually plenty of streams to choose from when that happens.  

 
tonydead said:
If you sign up for 3 months pre-paid you can get 50% off on either Roku 3 or firetv.
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Also a Roku 2 completely free, which I'd recommend. I have 3 Roku 3's and a Roku 2, and if I had it to do over again, I'd go all Roku 2's. The components and speed are the exact same. The only difference is the headphone jack on the Roku 3 remote, and Roku 3 remote doesn't have to be pointed at the box, while the Roku 2 does. A couple of very tiny features that won't justify the $40 price difference for most.

Plus, the Roku 2 turns Sling into a completely free 3 month trial where you get a top end streaming device at the end whether you like Sling or not.

 
Donny Loved Bowling said:
After lurking in this thread for a few months, I've decided that I want to take the plunge. I'm counting on some of you vets to help me make it a smooth transition. I've talked to my wife and daughter, nailed down what channels they cannot live without, and now I want to move forward. I live in Comcast country outside of Philly and I can't wait until I've paid my last $275 monthly bill.

I suppose I will have to keep Comcast for internet, currently have Blast service but hoping I can get by with a lesser plan. Maybe they will offer me some kind of promotional deal when I call to cancel TV service?

Despite poring over this thread, I am still a little confused about what hardware I will need. Sadly, I'm not much of a tech guy but I'm hoping to overcome this. A Leaf antenna seems like a must for local channels. (How do I know what range I need?) But Firestick vs. Roku is where I am really unsure. Already use Netflix and Amazon Prime. I'm definitely going to need Sling TV, and it is available on both platforms. But what about Kodi - will I want that too? Is it supported by both devices? Any other reason to choose one over the other? Once I make this decision, I think this setup will cover all my bases - but I'm also unsure if I should bother with a DVR. It's a significant expense, and I don't know how much I'd be using it anymore.

One other stumbling block is, how many remotes will I be using? Any universal options to be had?

Really hoping to get some good advice here so I can get rolling as soon as possible.
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As far as I know, there's no getting around the 2nd remote. I swear the only reason cable TV is still a thing is because women cannot use a damn "input" button. My wife will not push that button without me around no matter how much I try to explain to her that simply pushing that button opens up more avenues to more crap to watch than she could ever dream of.

Also, as you go into the world of OTA signals, have some patience. Outside of the input button, the other reason cable still exists is that folks don't have the patience to deal with antennas (sometimes it's more of an art than a science capturing those signals). Living just outside of Philly, you shouldn't have much of an issue, but it's something to keep in mind in case you do.

I'm currently considering DVR's myself. Keep in mind that most require a monthly fee for access to the channel guide (Channel Master does not). I'm not in any hurry as Hulu accomplishes most of what an OTA DVR be for.

 
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Thank you to everyone for the insights and opinions you've shared. I think I'm going to leave Kodi alone for now, and see if the other components satisfy my needs at first. Thanks also for the info about the Roku deal with Sling, think I will definitely be taking advantage of that. No iphones in my house, so don't think Apple TV would add anything for me.

 
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Is there a mohu leaf antenna that is better than the others.  After looking at antennaweb.org, I'm about 25 miles from all the station signals.  When I go to Amazon, it seems there are quite a few options going from $20-$80.  

 
pollardsvision said:
As far as I know, there's no getting around the 2nd remote. I swear the only reason cable TV is still a thing is because women cannot use a damn "input" button. My wife will not push that button without me around no matter how much I try to explain to her that simply pushing that button opens up more avenues to more crap to watch than she could ever dream of.

Also, as you go into the world of OTA signals, have some patience. Outside of the input button, the other reason cable still exists is that folks don't have the patience to deal with antennas (sometimes it's more of an art than a science capturing those signals). Living just outside of Philly, you shouldn't have much of an issue, but it's something to keep in mind in case you do.

I'm currently considering DVR's myself. Keep in mind that most require a monthly fee for access to the channel guide (Channel Master does not). I'm not in any hurry as Hulu accomplishes most of what an OTA DVR be for.
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A HTPC can solve the remote/input and DVR annoyances. Depending on how much you're going to spend on a DVR and if you might have an older second pc lieing around it might be something to consider.  

 
Anyone have experience with 1byone antennas? Came across them while shopping for a Leaf on Amazon. Power-amplified HD antenna only costs $30, boasts a 50-mile range. Five-star rated on Amazon, but I was curious if any of the gurus in here had an opinion...?

 
Donny Loved Bowling said:
Anyone have experience with 1byone antennas? Came across them while shopping for a Leaf on Amazon. Power-amplified HD antenna only costs $30, boasts a 50-mile range. Five-star rated on Amazon, but I was curious if any of the gurus in here had an opinion...?
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Not a guru but...This is the antenna I have and it works great! Live near Akron and pulled in Cleveland and Youngstown stations just from putting it on my wall. 

The only thing I don't like is the guide taking a few minutes to load as you scroll through it. 

 
Pretty much, yes. Did you get the indoor Eclipse? Or the outdoor Clearstream 2 or 4?

You just run a coax cable from the antenna to the TV. It's sometimes possible to run the outdoor antenna to the junction box thing that your Dish connects to use your existing household wiring, but I haven't fooled around with that (I just use splitters for multiple TV's on the same antenna).

 
I would really like to get rid of DirectTV, we really only watch a couple of "pay" channels and mostly stick with locals but use the DVR a lot.  Only issue is that I live in the sticks....no good internet options.  Currently have a set up thru Verizon called Home Fusion.  It's 4G so fast but limited amounts of Data.  Currently paying for 20GB a month and come pretty close to using this by surfing, watching minimal you tube and other videos.  Can you guys give an idea of how much data you use per month streaming TV?  Just seeing if there is a break even point for paying for more data or just keeping my pay TV.  Thanks.   

(Not worried about local channels, have an antenna that I get local channels thru fine when satellite goes out during storms)

 
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pollardsvision said:
Pretty much, yes. Did you get the indoor Eclipse? Or the outdoor Clearstream 2 or 4?

You just run a coax cable from the antenna to the TV. It's sometimes possible to run the outdoor antenna to the junction box thing that your Dish connects to use your existing household wiring, but I haven't fooled around with that (I just use splitters for multiple TV's on the same antenna).
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I bought the clear stream 2V

 
yak651 said:
I would really like to get rid of DirectTV, we really only watch a couple of "pay" channels and mostly stick with locals but use the DVR a lot.  Only issue is that I live in the sticks....no good internet options.  Currently have a set up thru Verizon called Home Fusion.  It's 4G so fast but limited amounts of Data.  Currently paying for 20GB a month and come pretty close to using this by surfing, watching minimal you tube and other videos.  Can you guys give an idea of how much data you use per month streaming TV?  Just seeing if there is a break even point for paying for more data or just keeping my pay TV.  Thanks.
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I am interested in this answer as well.

 
pollardsvision said:
Pretty much, yes. Did you get the indoor Eclipse? Or the outdoor Clearstream 2 or 4?

You just run a coax cable from the antenna to the TV. It's sometimes possible to run the outdoor antenna to the junction box thing that your Dish connects to use your existing household wiring, but I haven't fooled around with that (I just use splitters for multiple TV's on the same antenna).
Click to expand...
I am hoping the splitter that Dish tv has set up will work for me.

 
I know how stupid this sounds but.... I am not real clear on what a smart tv is. I think its a tv that already has netflix,amazon prime,hulu etc ... installed on it. If I am correct and that is the case would a smart tv negate the need for a fire stick?

 
prosopis said:
I know how stupid this sounds but.... I am not real clear on what a smart tv is. I think its a tv that already has netflix,amazon prime,hulu etc ... installed on it. If I am correct and that is the case would a smart tv negate the need for a fire stick?
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The bold is correct.

I have a Samsung smart TV and (unless I am missing something) it doesn't have nearly the apps available as my other TV with the fire stick. I would assume each smart TV interface is different but I an sure others here are more knowledgeable on that subject.

I do know that I will not buy a smart TV again and will stick with Fire/Roku instead.

 
Playstation Vue goes nationwide! 

$30 a month for 55 channels, $35 for 70, $45 for 100. Unless you're in one of the markets it's been in, you don't get locals, but you do get ABC/CBS/NBC video on-demand content instead.

I've been waiting for this for a while. Assuming it works, it's a far better deal than Sling, IMO. ESPN, Fox Sports 1, NBC Sports Network, Fox Sports regional networks...finally a good option for sports fans!

 
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Yeah, it doesn't take much to be a "smart tv" - and some may not have Netflix or may not have Amazon, and quite a few don't have Hulu I believe.  Personally, I view the TV (pardon the pun) as simply a monitor with (hopefully) a few inputs for things like firesticks, rokus, chromcasts, kodi device, blu ray player, and maybe a cable box.  The ability for a roku or firestick to be "updated" or even "upgraded" (sideloading apps) very likely doesn't exist with a smart TV. 

I'd say at a minimum get a TV with 3 HDMI inputs, unless you're going to have it connected to a receiver which will do all the input switching for you.

 
Brady Marino said:
Playstation Vue goes nationwide! 

$30 a month for 55 channels, $35 for 70, $45 for 100. Unless you're in one of the markets it's been in, you don't get locals, but you do get ABC/CBS/NBC video on-demand content instead.

I've been waiting for this for a while. Assuming it works, it's a far better deal than Sling, IMO.
Click to expand...
for those (like me) that thought you needed a PS3-4 to access this, that is not so...

from the article

Users can access PlayStation Vue through PS4, PS3, Amazon Fire TV, and Fire TV Stick, as well as iPad and iPhone through the PlayStation Vue mobile app.
Click to expand...



 
JoeSteeler said:
for those (like me) that thought you needed a PS3-4 to access this, that is not so...

from the article
Click to expand...
I do have a PS4 and PS3, but it's good they're on more devices.

I'm super freaking stoked I can have Fox Sports Midwest again. This is HUGE for sports fans who are cutting the cable.

 
Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia - Streaming on Vue!

:eek:

I never thought this day would come, WOW. Feel free to read the Wiki if you're wondering why this level of excitement would be warranted. CSN was always Comcast's way to keep a stranglehold on the home Philadelphia market, as you still can't get it on satellite. I guess they worked a deal out with Vue, and are still at a rate stalemate with the Satellite providers. Awesome, so out on Comcast once my 2-year is up this August.

ETA: This means I can just fire up Amazon Fire TV/Stick devices all around the house and at the very least get out of box fees, which is already a savings even if not completely cutting the cord. This is AWESOME.

 
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JoeSteeler said:
for those (like me) that thought you needed a PS3-4 to access this, that is not so...

from the article

       Quote

Users can access PlayStation Vue through PS4, PS3, Amazon Fire TV, and Fire TV Stick, as well as iPad and iPhone through the PlayStation Vue mobile app.
Click to expand...
Not available on xbox?!  -just kidding.

Not available on PC?!  -totally serious, wtf?

 
yak651 said:
Can you guys give an idea of how much data you use per month streaming TV?  Just seeing if there is a break even point for paying for more data or just keeping my pay TV.  Thanks.   
Click to expand...
I use around 160 - 180 GB a month, all my television watching is done via streaming (KODI).  During football season it can get into the 300 GB area watching multiple games all day/night.

I've heard Amazon Prime uses an insane amount of data.  Using that a lot you could get into the 1000 GB a month area.

 
Sony's site has no text lists, so I just took screen shots of the channel lists and prices (in 4th and 5th pictures down).

I'd subscribe to Core, getting me the live sports channels that I want which is all I'm down to pay for.

Crap, having a hard time posting my screenshots. Will read the upgraded board FAQ's and try again.

 
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tonydead said:
Can someone post a channel lineup for vue?  Apparently gaming sites (playstation) are blocked here at work.
Click to expand...
Access - $29.99 per month

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Core - $34.99 per month (your Fox Sports regional channels will be different than mine if you don't live in NE Indiana)

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Elite - $44.99 per month

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What a strange list of bed fellows.  Amazon which is android along with apps for the iphone/ipad without mention of android phones/tablets?  The biggest miss here is apparently no support for PC or Mac computers.  It's an ok move for going after cord cutters, but, a lot of the people that have never had cable watch everything on their computers.  There isn't a single streaming service to date prior to this that isn't available on PC/Mac is there?

 
tonydead said:
What a strange list of bed fellows.  Amazon which is android along with apps for the iphone/ipad without mention of android phones/tablets?  The biggest miss here is apparently no support for PC or Mac computers.  It's an ok move for going after cord cutters, but, a lot of the people that have never had cable watch everything on their computers.  There isn't a single streaming service to date prior to this that isn't available on PC/Mac is there?
Click to expand...
I think you have a point here, none that I can think of off the top of my head. This is awesome for the Kodi Fire TV crowd, get your cake and eat it too if you want to buy a base package for live sports. Any competition in this area is great, will be nice for me to be able to run free trials of both Sling and now Vue when I get ready to ditch out on Cable TV this summer.

 
Smell ya later, cable. As per the FAQ's, can rock out a single sub on up to 5 non-PS3/PS4 devices simultaneously:

How many devices can I stream PlayStation™Vue on at once?



A single PlayStation™Vue account can simultaneously stream PlayStation™Vue on up to one PS4 console and one PS3 console in the same home (Note: at this time, you cannot stream on two PS4 consoles or two PS3 consoles at any given time).

Additionally, you can use PlayStation™Vue Mobile on iOS devices, or PlayStation™Vue on Fire TV devices for additional simultaneous streams, with up to five total devices supported at once.
Click to expand...

 
Ooooh, FS, FX and Syfy.  I'll definitely switch to this package over Sling.  The irritant I have is I don't want to have to fire up the Playstation every time in my home theatre where everything is running on the HTPC and Xbox.  Dam switch inputs. 

When I get some time I'll make a list of what channels are available by streaming service.  Should be able to keep adding to the list later this summer.

 
mquinnjr said:
This is awesome for the Kodi Fire TV crowd
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Man, what an understatement.  The more I think about it; what an awesome deal for Amazon.  What percentage of the cord cutting population isn't trying to stream to more than one tv and Playstation comes out and says, "Hey guys you can only watch one stream on a Playstation, but, if you want multiple streams or if you don't even have a Playstation just use these Firetv devices.".  "Sorry, nope you can't just sign up on and use your computer." 

Wow.  Amazon gets their devices and their market place on all those televisions.  I'm a happy Amazon stock holder.

 
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