[Hidden-tech] Using Smart TV instead of Cable?

[tom's gmail]

I've tried a few different setups using Elgato's eyetv (using a Mac mini as entertainment hub), Logitech Revu/GoogleTv and appletv all while still having access to basic basic cable (the $8 package thatComcast doesn't tell anyone about unless you beg them to)

It's still like the wild west out there. It's like jumping through hoops to find your favorite shows (on Hulu, Hulu+, Apple iTunes, Netflix, and actually streaming video from computer/ YouTube / Vimeo, etc). I haven't found a workflow on a single system yet. 

That's the bit of unfinished business Steve Jobs apparently was working on... so maybe they'll be some big announcement one of these days....

But unfortunately, I think it's still a pretty conjumbled situation. 

Wouldn't it be nice to just sit down and watch "tv" like we used to just ten years ago...

Regards,

Tom Adams
www.ReelifeProductions.com
www.FolktographybyTom.com
http://reelifeproductions.com/Tom_Adams_Links
(from my virtual office/iPhone)
413.575.9707


On Feb 14, 2013, at 8:21 PM, Rich Roth <webmaster at hidden-tech.net> wrote:

>   ** Be sure to fill out the survey/skills inventory in the member's area.
>   ** If you did, we all thank you.
> 
> 
> Yes and no
> 
> I have one - Samsung 7500 - as a TV is great (and small, compared to prior versions with same screen - 46 in my case)
> the 'fancy' controls - voice, clap, hand waves work kinda, you can plug in a usb keyboard and mouse (some tricks there)
> It seems to have a good number of aps - it's basically an android tv.
> 
> BUT not having cable tv ?? depends what you want to watch
> if you watch any number of network or cable channel shows, you'll probably need a Hulu+ subscription
> or if movies, netflicks or something like it, no extra box needed - has viewers for netflix, huhlu plus, amazon view, plus normal browser (sorta)
> 
> Personally I have a tivo and network storage boxes  to save old movies for later viewing.
> BTW, The tivo player is better then the one build into the tv for handling.
> Depending on where you live, you might be able to get digital channels over an antenna - you know the thing on the roof :)
> 
> SO not quite ready for a total replacement, unless you plan ahead for your watching plans.
> 
> As for speed, just try watching what you want on your computer now, that will tell you if it's fast enuf to stream.
> 
> Enjoy
> Rich
> 
> On 2/14/2013 4:44 PM, David F. Farkas wrote:
>> Hi Mavens...
>> 
>> I'll bet someone has either researched or tried this... since most TV shows and Movies are easily accessible from the Internet, is it possible to ditch cable TV and use a 'smart TV' with only Internet connection.
>> 
>> I'm wondering if I should just buy a new smart TV and drop Xfinity TV? It would pay for itself in less than a year and then         montly charges would be very low.
>> 
>> And, secondary question, would I need to upgrade or my Internet service speed to get good results?
>> 
>> Thoughts? Comments? Research Results? Experience?
>> 
>> Thanx
>> dff
>> 
>> 
>> 
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