What Hi Fi Sound and Vision
03 DEC 2009
TechniSat HDFS
September's magazine included a three-star review of this Freesat receiver that lauded its picture, while denouncing its crashy, error-prone ergonomics.
There have been numerous software updates since then, so we're hoping this latest incarnation will be less of a swine to use.
Since our first review, the TechniSat has gained the ability to record to an external memory stick or hard drive via one of the two USB sockets. There's also an optional USB WLAN adapter to connect your PC wirelessly to the HDFS (see picture).
Set-up remains straightforward and the now-stable and quick-loading EPG is simple to navigate too.
As before, the HDFS is a compact device with sufficient connectivity (composite, Scart, digital optical and coaxial, and HDMI outputs; USB, Ethernet and LNB aerial inputs) to satisfy any reasonable user, a straightforward remote and gratifyingly simple menus.
HD images are clear to see
With its new-found lack of ergonomic histrionics, the HDFS is free to do its thing – which is to be a solid, colourful and stable TV tuner.
When delivering high-definition broadcasts, the TechniSat produces plenty of detail, handles motion confidently and does convincing work with skin tones.
The TechniSat also offers strong contrasts and draws a nice smooth edge. Sound is of the 'inoffensive' rather than 'actively enjoyable' type.
Freed from the operational shortcomings we identified earlier this year, the HDFS is now a fine Freesat receiver with a couple of useful additional features.
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