I was in Dick Smith the other day and noticed they now sell 3 different DSE SD STBs ranging from $89 to $129 (Christmas sale prices). Ironically the cheapest looks the best made, although lacks a SCART connector.
I was wondering what newer (cheaper) ones are like, as I'd read the original DSE SD box was unreliable.
Full Version: New DSE STBs
DTV Forum Australia - Australia's Leading Digital TV and AV Forum > Digital TV Receivers & Related Products > SD Set Top Box Receivers
QUOTE (njm @ Dec 4 2005, 10:19 AM) 
I was in Dick Smith the other day and noticed they now sell 3 different DSE SD STBs ranging from $89 to $129 (Christmas sale prices). Ironically the cheapest looks the best made, although lacks a SCART connector.
I was wondering what newer (cheaper) ones are like, as I'd read the original DSE SD box was unreliable.
I was wondering what newer (cheaper) ones are like, as I'd read the original DSE SD box was unreliable.
The $129 (save $10) model is the one to buy. DS No. G7659 or DTR-7100. I have tried it and the picture improvement has to be seen. It has Component and S-video outputs as well as analogue RF (antenna). The instructions are easy to follow and it can be connected to a PVR, DVD recorder, HDD unit or VCR. The event timer is very useful to enable you to select digital channels for recording once analogue ceases in 2 years. The remote replaces my TV remote for channel and volume settings, too.
I am buying mine tomorrow !
merridy - i think you mean 'composite' not componet on the DTR7100. I have one of these and it does not have component, only composite and svhs
So would the picture quality via composite be noticable? While I have a nice Panasonic DVD-Recorder which supports up to RGB in via a SCART connector, my TV is a 10 year old Sony with just a composite AV input. Is the 'better' one worth the extra $40?
QUOTE (datvman @ Dec 4 2005, 04:24 PM)
merridy - i think you mean 'composite' not componet on the DTR7100. I have one of these and it does not have component, only composite and svhs
Yes, you're right. Too many terms and options !
Composite = yellow RCA socket ( + red and white for audio)
Component = 3 RCA sockets marked Y Pb Pr
S-video = small round black multi-pin socket
RF = antenna socket
DVI = rectangular socket usually beige with square holes
I assume these are the main output types from a digital tuner. Is any one better than the others? My PVR (with analogue tuner, DVD palyer and HDD) accepts the first 4 types. The DSE set-top box has Composite, S-video and analogue RF outputs.
There should be a sticky about this, but here we go:
DVI - digital connection
Component - HD, Progressive Scan, etc
RGB - Euro version of component, usually carried through a SCART connector
S-Video
Composite
RF
But back to the original post, out of the 3 DSE STBs, is there a major difference between the $89, $95 and $129 boxes? If there is then I'd rather get the Teac that is rrp $149.
DVI - digital connection
Component - HD, Progressive Scan, etc
RGB - Euro version of component, usually carried through a SCART connector
S-Video
Composite
RF
But back to the original post, out of the 3 DSE STBs, is there a major difference between the $89, $95 and $129 boxes? If there is then I'd rather get the Teac that is rrp $149.
The $95 dse stb is made by Teac. Not sure about the others.
It is the only one with RGB thru scart. Connect thru this if you can.
The other DSE STBs are now under $100 and have RF modulators.
No RGB however.
It is the only one with RGB thru scart. Connect thru this if you can.
The other DSE STBs are now under $100 and have RF modulators.
No RGB however.
QUOTE (njm @ Dec 4 2005, 07:55 PM)
There should be a sticky about this, but here we go:
DVI - digital connection
Component - HD, Progressive Scan, etc
RGB - Euro version of component, usually carried through a SCART connector
S-Video
Composite
RF
But back to the original post, out of the 3 DSE STBs, is there a major difference between the $89, $95 and $129 boxes? If there is then I'd rather get the Teac that is rrp $149.
DVI - digital connection
Component - HD, Progressive Scan, etc
RGB - Euro version of component, usually carried through a SCART connector
S-Video
Composite
RF
But back to the original post, out of the 3 DSE STBs, is there a major difference between the $89, $95 and $129 boxes? If there is then I'd rather get the Teac that is rrp $149.
I have just bought the DSE G7659 for $128 (per their new 2005/06 catalogue). It has "composite" video out (yellow RCA socket), S-video and 4 RF in/out sockets for easy connection to your VCR, PVR, etc. Also has a S/PDIF digital audio output socket. (It even has an RS232 socket for connecting to the computer for firmware upgrades!) It took me 10 minutes to set-up. Now I have to program the event timer so the VCR and PVR will record digital channels rather than analogue ones via their inbuilt analogue tuners.
I looked at the $89 box (G1955 @ $99.86 in their catalogue) but it only has RF in/out sockets. Didn't see one for $95. Nothing in their catalogue at this price either.
I wouldn't touch a TEAC product. They have gone into receivership in Australia.
QUOTE (merridy @ Dec 5 2005, 04:55 PM)
I have just bought the DSE G7659 for $128 (per their new 2005/06 catalogue). It has "composite" video out (yellow RCA socket), S-video and 4 RF in/out sockets for easy connection to your VCR, PVR, etc. Also has a S/PDIF digital audio output socket. (It even has an RS232 socket for connecting to the computer for firmware upgrades!) It took me 10 minutes to set-up. Now I have to program the event timer so the VCR and PVR will record digital channels rather than analogue ones via their inbuilt analogue tuners.
I looked at the $89 box (G1955 @ $99.86 in their catalogue) but it only has RF in/out sockets. Didn't see one for $95. Nothing in their catalogue at this price either.
I wouldn't touch a TEAC product. They have gone into receivership in Australia.
I looked at the $89 box (G1955 @ $99.86 in their catalogue) but it only has RF in/out sockets. Didn't see one for $95. Nothing in their catalogue at this price either.
I wouldn't touch a TEAC product. They have gone into receivership in Australia.
Today DS Powerhouse had g7659 for just under $100.
btw does it say who makes it? Maybe in warranty card.
QUOTE (solder @ Dec 5 2005, 05:17 PM)
Today DS Powerhouse had g7659 for just under $100.
btw does it say who makes it? Maybe in warranty card.
btw does it say who makes it? Maybe in warranty card.
It wasn't in my Powerhouse junk mail catalogue !!
No warranty info or card supplied. Made in China is all it has on the box. Go to "Receivers" on this website and you will see it listed under Pacific Satellite - Model DTR-7000.
Can anyone please report on the quality of the DSE DTR7100 (G7659). I am looking at buying one if they are stable. (picture quality, dropouts, lockups etc.)
Thanks.
Thanks.
You get what you pay for guys,!!! $89, $129, still not that flash, how soon do you want to have to upgrade these models??? why not lash out and save your self the headache of all this future hastle you are going to encounter.
Hills have released some mid level entry modes available to everyone, with a Db requirement of as little as 42Db, now if your signal is that poor for starters, then you must ask yourself why?? Make sure your antenna system is upto standards first before you try and better it by just putting in a DSTB.
Hills have released some mid level entry modes available to everyone, with a Db requirement of as little as 42Db, now if your signal is that poor for starters, then you must ask yourself why?? Make sure your antenna system is upto standards first before you try and better it by just putting in a DSTB.
QUOTE (coastal_neale @ Dec 6 2005, 11:41 PM)
You get what you pay for guys,!!! $89, $129, still not that flash, how soon do you want to have to upgrade these models??? why not lash out and save your self the headache of all this future hastle you are going to encounter.
Hills have released some mid level entry modes available to everyone, with a Db requirement of as little as 42Db, now if your signal is that poor for starters, then you must ask yourself why?? Make sure your antenna system is upto standards first before you try and better it by just putting in a DSTB.
Hills have released some mid level entry modes available to everyone, with a Db requirement of as little as 42Db, now if your signal is that poor for starters, then you must ask yourself why?? Make sure your antenna system is upto standards first before you try and better it by just putting in a DSTB.
My reception is fine. 99-100% signal strength (with SBS a little lower) according to the OSD from the STB. Why would I want to upgrade my STB? A digital tuner is a digital tuner! I bought it to have the benefits of digital TV now and so I can watch TV in 2 years when analogue transmission ceases. $129 was about the cheapest way to go digital with my existing DVD/HDD and VCR units that both have analogue tuners. The only upgrade will be when the old analogue TV set (with RF input only) finally packs up!
QUOTE (merridy @ Dec 7 2005, 07:48 AM)
The only upgrade will be when the old analogue TV set (with RF input only) finally packs up!
That's what I'm waiting for! It's already over 25 years old, surely there can't be too much life left in there!
I'm interested in the DSE set top boxes, I'm looking for a cheap STB to have as a second one in the bedroom, looking at as cheap as I can get, all I need is for it to display a picture. My parents are also in the market for something cheap. Who knows, a cheap STB has to be better than the DGTEC they already have.
QUOTE (coastal_neale @ Dec 6 2005, 11:41 PM)
You get what you pay for guys,!!! $89, $129, still not that flash, how soon do you want to have to upgrade these models??? why not lash out and save your self the headache of all this future hastle you are going to encounter.
Hills have released some mid level entry modes available to everyone, with a Db requirement of as little as 42Db, now if your signal is that poor for starters, then you must ask yourself why?? Make sure your antenna system is upto standards first before you try and better it by just putting in a DSTB.
Hills have released some mid level entry modes available to everyone, with a Db requirement of as little as 42Db, now if your signal is that poor for starters, then you must ask yourself why?? Make sure your antenna system is upto standards first before you try and better it by just putting in a DSTB.
Why would you want to spend more money on a SD STB? All I have is an old TV.
When that is replaced I will get a flash STB if it doesn't already have an integrated tuner.
If spending $100 gets me through 1yr I'll be happy.
btw, anyone tried the slimline dse stb for $89?
The DSE set top boxes are quite good. I use one here on the cheap bedroom television and its fine.
QUOTE (datvman @ Dec 7 2005, 09:06 PM)
The DSE set top boxes are quite good. I use one here on the cheap bedroom television and its fine.
Hi all, I work for DSE and in my opinion (which is in no way the opionion of DSE or Woolworths
) The $89 G1956 SD Set Top Box is the best buy.
The $94 G1955 SD Set top box is an older model with a much weaker reciver and is replaced by the G1956.
The $129 G7659 SD Set top box is slightly better with a stronger reciver, but a little birdy told me that they have a high return rate i.e. a lot need to be sent away for repair.
so all that said, the G1956 is a solid box with strong reciver, good for a cheap intro into the game, and perfect for a second box in the bedroom, $89 well spent.
on a side note, I just purchased a Topfield TF5000PVRt for $780 from retravision on the gold coast. The TF5000 is probablly the best SD set top box on the market if your willing to spend the extra $$.
Like the man says, you get what you pay for.
cool, thanks for the info!
It looks quiet nice aswell
I have the $129 one, works fantasticly, but they gave it to me for $90 cause it was the last one and the remote was slighty worn, the next day I saw over 50 new ones in the window for $129 
It looks quiet nice aswell
I have the $129 one, works fantasticly, but they gave it to me for $90 cause it was the last one and the remote was slighty worn, the next day I saw over 50 new ones in the window for $129
G7659 was great while it lasted. had mine under the stairs in a 2 storey house & no problems with reception from any sydney tv stations.
but just 2 weeks before out of warranty, receiver was gone & power supply started to make buzzing sound. returned it to dse & was told that it is a known/common problem with the capacitor in this model.
but just 2 weeks before out of warranty, receiver was gone & power supply started to make buzzing sound. returned it to dse & was told that it is a known/common problem with the capacitor in this model.
Purchased DSE G1956 yesterday, took me a while to setup !
PQ look OK....can't expect top gear for that price.
So far so good fingers cross
PQ look OK....can't expect top gear for that price.
So far so good fingers cross
QUOTE (ozguy @ Dec 14 2005, 08:12 AM)
Purchased DSE G1956 yesterday, took me a while to setup !
PQ look OK....can't expect top gear for that price.
So far so good fingers cross
PQ look OK....can't expect top gear for that price.
So far so good fingers cross
I bought one of these last week. Seems Ok.
However, I found that it runs all little hot even when in standby.
Notice the rf modulator is kept on when not in use.
QUOTE (solder @ Dec 14 2005, 01:20 PM)
I bought one of these last week. Seems Ok.
However, I found that it runs all little hot even when in standby.
Notice the rf modulator is kept on when not in use.
However, I found that it runs all little hot even when in standby.
Notice the rf modulator is kept on when not in use.
I also bought the DSE G1956 ($89 last Sun). It does run warm on the LHS even on standby (<8 watts they say!?). Interesting about the RF modulator always on. Set up was quick - a few minutes - did it all itself. Good graphics info along the way.
Only criticism is that the framing on 4:3 std shows a little less of the picture than when on analogue aerial. Anyone know how to tweak the G1956? - it has an RJ-12 port connector for tweaking software!
Seems an excellent unit for the price. Not sure what extras (other than RGB, Scart) you might get for more money.
Beware the "you get what you pay for" adage! You get what you buy, what you pay for it is open ended and and helped along by slick salespersons and a desire to indulge. "Price sets maximum quality - not minimum quality". You can spend heaps on junk. So, if you don't know what you are buying, spend big, it might lift the minimum quality. ... then again ....
I set one of these up for a friend of mine the other day. It sure has an ultra sensitive tuner alright. Its only antenna is a coathanger and its pulling every channel at 85-90% strength and 100% quality
datvman - do you literally mean a coathanger or are you referring to an indoor antenna?
anybody else manage with an indoor antenna and set top box?
anybody else manage with an indoor antenna and set top box?
Hi guys,
Got mine a few days ago...so far i had an issue with the FTA channel!
Sometime when i turn up the volume the picture would freeze for properly 2 seconds then back to normal again.
Is this a fault unit should i take it back for a replacement??
Cheers
Got mine a few days ago...so far i had an issue with the FTA channel!
Sometime when i turn up the volume the picture would freeze for properly 2 seconds then back to normal again.
Is this a fault unit should i take it back for a replacement??
Cheers
QUOTE (iamthecoolest @ Dec 8 2005, 02:42 PM)
Hi all, I work for DSE and in my opinion (which is in no way the opionion of DSE or Woolworths )
The $89 G1956 SD Set Top Box is the best buy.
The $94 G1955 SD Set top box is an older model with a much weaker reciver and is replaced by the G1956.
The $129 G7659 SD Set top box is slightly better with a stronger reciver, but a little birdy told me that they have a high return rate i.e. a lot need to be sent away for repair. so all that said, the G1956 is a solid box with strong receiver, good for a cheap intro into the game, and perfect for a second box in the bedroom, $89 well spent.
on a side note, I just purchased a Topfield TF5000PVRt for $780 from retravision on the gold coast. The TF5000 is probablly the best SD set top box on the market if your willing to spend the extra $$.
Like the man says, you get what you pay for.
) The $89 G1956 SD Set Top Box is the best buy.
The $94 G1955 SD Set top box is an older model with a much weaker reciver and is replaced by the G1956.
The $129 G7659 SD Set top box is slightly better with a stronger reciver, but a little birdy told me that they have a high return rate i.e. a lot need to be sent away for repair. so all that said, the G1956 is a solid box with strong receiver, good for a cheap intro into the game, and perfect for a second box in the bedroom, $89 well spent.
on a side note, I just purchased a Topfield TF5000PVRt for $780 from retravision on the gold coast. The TF5000 is probablly the best SD set top box on the market if your willing to spend the extra $$.
Like the man says, you get what you pay for.
I work for DSE Powerhouse, so ditto disclaimer and all that...
Agreed about the G1956. I have had a couple of customers bring this back telling me it gets very hot even when on stand-by - well I have taken the top off my personal one and voided it's warranty of course and I thought I might share with you all what I've found about this box:
I can't see who makes the parts inside of it, but I presume it's made by a well known manufacturer. Because this box is physically so small and the 240V to low votage conversion happens inside the unit, it *does* get hot because of a badly designed ventilation hole arrangement on the top cover. It is imperative that this unit be given ventilation and must NOT be placed in constricted places, or on top of other heat producing equipment (such as VCRs or amplifiers).
There is a thermister/transistor and heatsink right under the patch on the top cover where there are no ventilation holes and this is what heats up as there appears to be insufficient thermal flow from the bottom holes. This appears to me to be a desgn flaw and I have made moves to contact the buyers so ventilation can be put across the entire top lid.
For those that already own them, and I can verify that they will pick up off a coat hanger
, there is a simple fix which will have your G1956 cool as a cucumber - do this - stand the unit on it's left edge - i.e. the DSE logo is closest to the surface and the vent holes on the top are facing to the left. This will drop the temperature to less than most other STB's out there, even when it's operating.Other than that little issue, I can verify from personal experience that this is a fantastic little box of digital tricks. From the look of it's OSD etc, I'd say it's a TEAC OEM, but I can't verify that. It has a great tuner in it and it's more than an apt replacement for the G1955, which always comes back because it can't pick up SBS (UHF CH34) half the time. The G1956 also has RF modulation and multiple simultaneous output for the video.
I won't sell the G1955 to any one any longer - sorry buyers - but it's just not worth it in light of the G1956.
I can confirm about the G7659 returns, and all at once too, but not in all units. The problem seems to be heat related capacitor issue on the video mudulator side, which manifests as either complete colour/picture loss and in lesser affected cases, white lines running horizontally through the output image. I think it's also safe to say if you don't place STB's properly and give them ventilation they will suffer some sort of heat failure at some stage, no matter what brand. The customers I have talked to about the G7659 all seem to cram them into constricted spaces, and they are the ones that seem to be returning them faulty.
Customers should have no fear and just bring them back for service as they will be fixed properly. I believe the designers are aware of this issue though because yesterday our dock recieved a new "Updated G1185" version of these boxes. They are very popular and I am glad they are listening and continuing the line.
I can't say the same for the G1955 though
Never liked the box to begin with. I guess this why we've got the G1956 now I own a Thomson DTI-351 (1st Gen), a Strong SRT-5390 PVR and the DSE box and of them all there is no difference in PQ that I can notice, not over S-Video anyway, and not over RGB either, so I agree about a SD STB being much of a muchness. Where the Strong shines is it's PQ though and it's facilitation being a PVR.
What really blew me away recently was a Toshiba J35 twin tuner HD PVR which the rep brought in the other day - fantastic picture and the things you can do with the HDD are just jaw dropping
Happy Christmas one and all, and happy glitch free DTV watching!
QUOTE (ozguy @ Dec 14 2005, 07:12 AM)
Purchased DSE G1956 yesterday, took me a while to setup !
PQ look OK....can't expect top gear for that price.
So far so good fingers cross
PQ look OK....can't expect top gear for that price.
So far so good fingers cross
Does the g1956 have a display on the box or just a light?
QUOTE (ur003127 @ Dec 17 2005, 02:51 PM)
Does the g1956 have a display on the box or just a light?
Just a light - the ominus "green eye"
OZ
QUOTE (iamthecoolest @ Dec 8 2005, 03:42 PM)
Hi all, I work for DSE and in my opinion (which is in no way the opionion of DSE or Woolworths )
The $89 G1956 SD Set Top Box is the best buy.
) The $89 G1956 SD Set Top Box is the best buy.
Good to hear.
I got some relatives one of these and a new TV Antenna for Christmas.
JB
QUOTE (OzDude @ Dec 17 2005, 10:26 AM)
<snip>
For those that already own them, and I can verify that they will pick up off a coat hanger, there is a simple fix which will have your G1956 cool as a cucumber - do this - stand the unit on it's left edge - i.e. the DSE logo is closest to the surface and the vent holes on the top are facing to the left. This will drop the temperature to less than most other STB's out there, even when it's operating.
<snip>
For those that already own them, and I can verify that they will pick up off a coat hanger
, there is a simple fix which will have your G1956 cool as a cucumber - do this - stand the unit on it's left edge - i.e. the DSE logo is closest to the surface and the vent holes on the top are facing to the left. This will drop the temperature to less than most other STB's out there, even when it's operating.<snip>
Yes i can confirm the unit Cooled down when standing on its side,
a case mod to vent the top side is going to be implemented on my unit.
One thing i did notice is that the firmware is from Pacific Sat and actualy
shows up as the DTR-7001 (8570)
The only real eirk i have with it is the Damm light on the front its just too big
so after the case mod the green lite will get the dimmer treatment (black tape) & or
replaced.
Watch out when buying this unit, the stores have the price of $99 but powerhouse has it @ $89:84
on special, make sure you let them know when purchasing <there is something shifty there but thats Big bussiness>
and you will get it at the PowerHouse price.
Yes running of a coathanger - I grabbed it out of my wardrobe as I was walking out of the house
Hi guys,
I got another issue...i am using S-video for the connection between Plasma TV and my SD STB....from time to time when watching digital FTA i do hear this "errrrrrrr" electrical sound....is that normal or something wrong with either the SD STB or Plasma TV???
Cheers
I got another issue...i am using S-video for the connection between Plasma TV and my SD STB....from time to time when watching digital FTA i do hear this "errrrrrrr" electrical sound....is that normal or something wrong with either the SD STB or Plasma TV???
Cheers
QUOTE (OzDude @ Dec 17 2005, 10:26 AM)
... - stand the unit on it's left edge - i.e. the DSE logo is closest to the surface and the vent holes on the top are facing to the left. This will drop the temperature to less than most other STB's out there, even when it's operating.
Thanks for the great advice OzDude. Got mine back from repair after 2 weeks (with firmware upgrade). Stood the unit on it's side last night & made a huge difference! Hope the unit will last much longer this time. Also like the standing-up look better next to the lcd screen...
QUOTE (OzDude @ Dec 17 2005, 10:26 AM)
I work for DSE Powerhouse, so ditto disclaimer and all that...
Agreed about the G1956. I have had a couple of customers bring this back telling me it gets very hot even when on stand-by - well I have taken the top off my personal one and voided it's warranty of course and I thought I might share with you all what I've found about this box:
I can't see who makes the parts inside of it, but I presume it's made by a well known manufacturer. Because this box is physically so small and the 240V to low votage conversion happens inside the unit, it *does* get hot because of a badly designed ventilation hole arrangement on the top cover. It is imperative that this unit be given ventilation and must NOT be placed in constricted places, or on top of other heat producing equipment (such as VCRs or amplifiers).
There is a thermister/transistor and heatsink right under the patch on the top cover where there are no ventilation holes and this is what heats up as there appears to be insufficient thermal flow from the bottom holes. This appears to me to be a desgn flaw and I have made moves to contact the buyers so ventilation can be put across the entire top lid.
For those that already own them, and I can verify that they will pick up off a coat hanger, there is a simple fix which will have your G1956 cool as a cucumber - do this - stand the unit on it's left edge - i.e. the DSE logo is closest to the surface and the vent holes on the top are facing to the left. This will drop the temperature to less than most other STB's out there, even when it's operating.
Other than that little issue, I can verify from personal experience that this is a fantastic little box of digital tricks. From the look of it's OSD etc, I'd say it's a TEAC OEM, but I can't verify that. It has a great tuner in it and it's more than an apt replacement for the G1955, which always comes back because it can't pick up SBS (UHF CH34) half the time. The G1956 also has RF modulation and multiple simultaneous output for the video.
I won't sell the G1955 to any one any longer - sorry buyers - but it's just not worth it in light of the G1956.
I can confirm about the G7659 returns, and all at once too, but not in all units. The problem seems to be heat related capacitor issue on the video mudulator side, which manifests as either complete colour/picture loss and in lesser affected cases, white lines running horizontally through the output image. I think it's also safe to say if you don't place STB's properly and give them ventilation they will suffer some sort of heat failure at some stage, no matter what brand. The customers I have talked to about the G7659 all seem to cram them into constricted spaces, and they are the ones that seem to be returning them faulty.
Customers should have no fear and just bring them back for service as they will be fixed properly. I believe the designers are aware of this issue though because yesterday our dock recieved a new "Updated G1185" version of these boxes. They are very popular and I am glad they are listening and continuing the line.
I can't say the same for the G1955 though Never liked the box to begin with. I guess this why we've got the G1956 now
I own a Thomson DTI-351 (1st Gen), a Strong SRT-5390 PVR and the DSE box and of them all there is no difference in PQ that I can notice, not over S-Video anyway, and not over RGB either, so I agree about a SD STB being much of a muchness. Where the Strong shines is it's PQ though and it's facilitation being a PVR.
What really blew me away recently was a Toshiba J35 twin tuner HD PVR which the rep brought in the other day - fantastic picture and the things you can do with the HDD are just jaw dropping
Happy Christmas one and all, and happy glitch free DTV watching!
Agreed about the G1956. I have had a couple of customers bring this back telling me it gets very hot even when on stand-by - well I have taken the top off my personal one and voided it's warranty of course and I thought I might share with you all what I've found about this box:
I can't see who makes the parts inside of it, but I presume it's made by a well known manufacturer. Because this box is physically so small and the 240V to low votage conversion happens inside the unit, it *does* get hot because of a badly designed ventilation hole arrangement on the top cover. It is imperative that this unit be given ventilation and must NOT be placed in constricted places, or on top of other heat producing equipment (such as VCRs or amplifiers).
There is a thermister/transistor and heatsink right under the patch on the top cover where there are no ventilation holes and this is what heats up as there appears to be insufficient thermal flow from the bottom holes. This appears to me to be a desgn flaw and I have made moves to contact the buyers so ventilation can be put across the entire top lid.
For those that already own them, and I can verify that they will pick up off a coat hanger
, there is a simple fix which will have your G1956 cool as a cucumber - do this - stand the unit on it's left edge - i.e. the DSE logo is closest to the surface and the vent holes on the top are facing to the left. This will drop the temperature to less than most other STB's out there, even when it's operating.Other than that little issue, I can verify from personal experience that this is a fantastic little box of digital tricks. From the look of it's OSD etc, I'd say it's a TEAC OEM, but I can't verify that. It has a great tuner in it and it's more than an apt replacement for the G1955, which always comes back because it can't pick up SBS (UHF CH34) half the time. The G1956 also has RF modulation and multiple simultaneous output for the video.
I won't sell the G1955 to any one any longer - sorry buyers - but it's just not worth it in light of the G1956.
I can confirm about the G7659 returns, and all at once too, but not in all units. The problem seems to be heat related capacitor issue on the video mudulator side, which manifests as either complete colour/picture loss and in lesser affected cases, white lines running horizontally through the output image. I think it's also safe to say if you don't place STB's properly and give them ventilation they will suffer some sort of heat failure at some stage, no matter what brand. The customers I have talked to about the G7659 all seem to cram them into constricted spaces, and they are the ones that seem to be returning them faulty.
Customers should have no fear and just bring them back for service as they will be fixed properly. I believe the designers are aware of this issue though because yesterday our dock recieved a new "Updated G1185" version of these boxes. They are very popular and I am glad they are listening and continuing the line.
I can't say the same for the G1955 though
Never liked the box to begin with. I guess this why we've got the G1956 now I own a Thomson DTI-351 (1st Gen), a Strong SRT-5390 PVR and the DSE box and of them all there is no difference in PQ that I can notice, not over S-Video anyway, and not over RGB either, so I agree about a SD STB being much of a muchness. Where the Strong shines is it's PQ though and it's facilitation being a PVR.
What really blew me away recently was a Toshiba J35 twin tuner HD PVR which the rep brought in the other day - fantastic picture and the things you can do with the HDD are just jaw dropping
Happy Christmas one and all, and happy glitch free DTV watching!
The g1956 is made by Pacific Satelite. The g1955 is the Teac one.
I have purchased both over recent weeks. The g1956 has much better software and shows a lot more
indepth technical info on screen. It has a more advanced epg and channel options (sorting etc). The only
thing it needs is better Teletext (too slow). Having said that, I still prefer the older g1955 because it has
RGB scart, runs very cool and has aspect ratio button on the remote. It has no problems with SBS.
The only problem was with the time being one hour out. This has been fixed with a firmware upgrade.
Merry Christmas to all.
QUOTE (solder @ Dec 20 2005, 11:06 AM)
The g1956 is made by Pacific Satelite. The g1955 is the Teac one.
I have purchased both over recent weeks. The g1956 has much better software and shows a lot more
indepth technical info on screen. It has a more advanced epg and channel options (sorting etc). The only
thing it needs is better Teletext (too slow). Having said that, I still prefer the older g1955 because it has
RGB scart, runs very cool and has aspect ratio button on the remote. It has no problems with SBS.
The only problem was with the time being one hour out. This has been fixed with a firmware upgrade.
I have purchased both over recent weeks. The g1956 has much better software and shows a lot more
indepth technical info on screen. It has a more advanced epg and channel options (sorting etc). The only
thing it needs is better Teletext (too slow). Having said that, I still prefer the older g1955 because it has
RGB scart, runs very cool and has aspect ratio button on the remote. It has no problems with SBS.
The only problem was with the time being one hour out. This has been fixed with a firmware upgrade.
Hi Solder, recently got the G1955 looking for a firmware upgrade may i ask where you found it?
also voided my warenty looking for more specs on this unit.
CODE
Tuner : PDHTF05DA P5E31S PARTSNIC
PCB : MODEL DW-1000T REV 2.0 2005.05.23
Video Decoder : dnp PN202DAT 0513 Z33 PNP
PCB : MODEL DW-1000T REV 2.0 2005.05.23
Video Decoder : dnp PN202DAT 0513 Z33 PNP
Thanks to solder the url for the firmware is DSE G1955 Firmware From Teac AU, hopefully this will fix me not getting abc..hehe will flash STB and report back. 
EDIT: Still no abc will have move arial, but upgrade is good shows higher signal strength and getting more channels now brisbane and goldcost, the PQ on this stb is great lot better then the other cheapo stbs out there ive had a Kross and Conia both seemed to be way to bright, also like the 4/3 pan scaning next thing to buy is a 66cm WS 100hz tv.
EDIT: Still no abc will have move arial, but upgrade is good shows higher signal strength and getting more channels now brisbane and goldcost, the PQ on this stb is great lot better then the other cheapo stbs out there ive had a Kross and Conia both seemed to be way to bright, also like the 4/3 pan scaning next thing to buy is a 66cm WS 100hz tv.
a point to note with any dtv STB if you a getting clicking sounds in stb and it is audible out the speakers you may have faulty connection within the airial cable, at the airial connection point, make sure all the the rg59 cable is in good nik, if it ain't you'll get distorted sound, you may also need a tech to swr aliment with your airial both for anolog and digital reception, you may need to upgrade to rg6 cable improve reception..
also check the age of your airial, i'm not sure how good 1 of those 15+ year old airial could be with digital reception..
also check the age of your airial, i'm not sure how good 1 of those 15+ year old airial could be with digital reception..
heya people i just purchased the G1956 and for some reason on day 1 it was all working fine, then all of a sudden it has just switched the picture to black and white. not sure why it has done this but i cannot seem to get to go back to color.... any help would be great. Thanks
Try resetting the unit and if all else fails, rewiring it just incase.
If nothing helps, grab your receipt and go to dse to swap for a new one.
If nothing helps, grab your receipt and go to dse to swap for a new one.
is it possible you may have changed the color system accidentally? set it to the default AUTO may solve your problem. i think its the SYS button on the remote from memory.
Hi all, I'm having trouble getting my VCR/DVD combo to pick up the digital channels from my set top box when auto tuning.The STB works fine otherwise.
STB is a DSE G1956 and vcr is LG V181.When I try to tune the channels it just picks up the analogs. Any help much appreciated.
STB is a DSE G1956 and vcr is LG V181.When I try to tune the channels it just picks up the analogs. Any help much appreciated.
QUOTE (tas28 @ Jul 10 2006, 09:51 PM)
Hi all, I'm having trouble getting my VCR/DVD combo to pick up the digital channels from my set top box when auto tuning.The STB works fine otherwise.
STB is a DSE G1956 and vcr is LG V181.When I try to tune the channels it just picks up the analogs. Any help much appreciated.
STB is a DSE G1956 and vcr is LG V181.When I try to tune the channels it just picks up the analogs. Any help much appreciated.
Whew. A hard one. Let me think.......
Could it be that you should plug the STB into the AV "in" on the Combo and record the channel that the STB has selected; and that the combo's tuner is only ever going to pick up analogue because it's an analogue tuner?
QUOTE (Charlie 75 @ Jul 10 2006, 10:23 PM)
Whew. A hard one. Let me think.......
Could it be that you should plug the STB into the AV "in" on the Combo and record the channel that the STB has selected; and that the combo's tuner is only ever going to pick up analogue because it's an analogue tuner?
Could it be that you should plug the STB into the AV "in" on the Combo and record the channel that the STB has selected; and that the combo's tuner is only ever going to pick up analogue because it's an analogue tuner?
Thanks Charlie, does this mean that I can't watch another program than the VCR is recording?
If not, how do I get around this?
Thanks for your help
QUOTE (tas28 @ Jul 11 2006, 08:17 PM)
Thanks Charlie, does this mean that I can't watch another program than the VCR is recording?
If not, how do I get around this?
Thanks for your help
If not, how do I get around this?
Thanks for your help
Yep - you can only tune into one channel at a time, unless you have a dual-tuner STB. There isn't really any way around this with your current equipment, apart from running another cable from your antenna to your TV and watching analog while the VCR is recording digital.
QUOTE (Fear @ Feb 3 2006, 03:10 PM)
Thanks to solder the url for the firmware is DSE G1955 Firmware From Teac AU, hopefully this will fix me not getting abc..hehe will flash STB and report back.
EDIT: Still no abc will have move arial, but upgrade is good shows higher signal strength and getting more channels now brisbane and goldcost, the PQ on this stb is great lot better then the other cheapo stbs out there ive had a Kross and Conia both seemed to be way to bright, also like the 4/3 pan scaning next thing to buy is a 66cm WS 100hz tv.
EDIT: Still no abc will have move arial, but upgrade is good shows higher signal strength and getting more channels now brisbane and goldcost, the PQ on this stb is great lot better then the other cheapo stbs out there ive had a Kross and Conia both seemed to be way to bright, also like the 4/3 pan scaning next thing to buy is a 66cm WS 100hz tv.
Hi all,
Sorry I am new here, but got to start somewhere. I have a DSE G1955 STB and I have downloaded the firmware from the link above. I wish to know what type of cable to use to connect to the STB (is it nul modem??)
Thanks
paul
Hey guys, I've got a G1955, but the firmware update link doesn't work anymore. Could someone please send it to me or upload it somewhere?
To the poster above, I think you need a null modem cable, but I'm sure you've already worked it out by now.
To the poster above, I think you need a null modem cable, but I'm sure you've already worked it out by now.
For anyone who's interested, you can still get null modem cables at Jaycar Electronics. Here's a link to the product: http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?I...=&SUBCATID=
QUOTE (iamthecoolest @ Dec 8 2005, 02:12 PM)
The $129 G7659 SD Set top box is slightly better with a stronger reciver, but a little birdy told me that they have a high return rate i.e. a lot need to be sent away for repair.
That's for sure. I bought one over a year ago and had it replaced 3 times before I managed to operate it for more than a few weeks. My most recent 7659 worked for about a year and failed about 2 months ago - after the DSE warranty had expired so it's now a door-stop.
I replaced it with a $59 DVX unit from Strathfield and installed an old 80GB PC hard disk that I had lying around - so I now have an excellent very low-cost SD+PVR for an outlay of $59. The DVX has so far been trouble-free (has been running continuously for 2 months), doesn't get nearly as warm as the 7659 and has superior picture quality.
In my opinion it isn't worth paying more than token money for SD equipment in 2008. HD STBs + PVRs must rapidly fall in price during 2008 and when that happens I will move over to HD.
A little birdie also tells my that by Xmas 2008 the major manufacturers will be incorporating HD PVRs into the latest LCD/Plasma screens and that the screens will have similar prices to screens with HD tuners but no PVR in today's market.
I got the latest G1955 firmware. Here's the URL: http://www.samssite.co.nr/G1955Firmware.zip
I think this is in the wrong thread, jus wondering ,can you watch HDTV channels with a SD set top box???
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