TV tuners and set-top boxes for receiving digital terrestrial, satellite and cable television on a TV that cannot do it alone, or on an older set. The range has over 50 models, with receivers from Opticum Red, Megasat, WiWa and TechniSat among the leading names.
How to choose a TV tuner or set-top box
Reception standard. The receiver must match your signal. DVB-T and DVB-T2 are for aerial broadcasts, DVB-S and DVB-S2 for satellite dishes, and DVB-C for cable. Some boxes combine two standards, which helps if you may change how you receive TV later.
Video format and picture quality. Many DVB-T2 broadcasts use HEVC (H.265) compression, so a DVB-T2 box without HEVC support may not show every channel. For satellite, check that the receiver supports Full HD, and look for 4K only if your TV and channels can use it.
Connections. HDMI is the standard link to current TVs. Older sets may need a SCART or composite output, so check the back of your TV before ordering. A USB port is useful for playing media files and, on many models, recording programmes.
Recording and extras. If you want to record or pause live TV, look for a receiver with USB recording. A CI slot lets you use a conditional access module for encrypted channels. Some models add Wi-Fi or streaming apps, but a basic receiver is enough if you only want live channels.
Brands we carry
- TechniSat: German manufacturer known for digital satellite, cable and terrestrial receivers, including models with network features.
- Kathrein: German company with a long history in antennas and satellite reception equipment.
- Megasat: German brand known for satellite receivers and dish-based reception systems.
- Strong: brand known for satellite and DVB-T2 receivers aimed at straightforward home use.
- Schwaiger: German supplier of reception accessories such as antennas, cables and signal amplifiers.
- Xoro: German consumer electronics brand that makes DVB receivers alongside media players.
- Opticum Red: the largest group in our range, with satellite and terrestrial receivers.
Also in our range: WiWa, Esperanza, Imperial, Blow and Kruger&Matz.
TV tuner and set-top box FAQ
What is the difference between a TV tuner and a set-top box?
A tuner is the part that receives and decodes a broadcast signal, and a set-top box is a separate unit that contains one. Most products here are set-top boxes that connect to a TV by HDMI or SCART. Some are USB tuners that add reception to a computer or media device.
Do I need a DVB-T2 box for my TV?
You need one only if your TV has no built-in DVB-T2 tuner and you receive aerial broadcasts in that standard. Check the TV manual or settings menu for DVB-T2 and HEVC support. If both are listed, an external box is unnecessary.
Can a set-top box record TV programmes?
Many can, but not all. Look for a USB recording function in the specifications, then connect a USB drive or external hard drive. Timer recording and pause live TV usually depend on the model, so check these features before you buy.
Will a satellite receiver work with any dish?
A satellite receiver works with a standard dish and LNB that points at the satellite you want to watch. It must support DVB-S or DVB-S2, and DVB-S2 is the more common standard on newer channels. Installation and alignment of the dish are separate from the receiver itself.
