The Dish Network is the ViP612 is a scaled down version of the ViP622. The ViP612 is available in a black finish rather than silver but, like the ViP622, it supports 480i, 720p and 1080i resolutions that will 0view and record in both high- and standard definition. If you're recording SD programming, the ViP612 can hold an impressive 200 hours of your favorite shows. Alternately, it is capable of holding up to 30 hours of HD programs or any combination of HD and SD programming. If you're a diehard TV viewer and that doesn't sound like enough storage capacity, you can expand the storage capacity by connecting an external hard drive via the unit's USB port. (As with the similar feature on the ViP622, this is more of an archival storage option; you won't be able to actually play any content stored to an external hard drive without first copying it back to the internal hard drive.)

Despite the impressive storage capacity, the ViP612 DVR lacks a second TV output and offers no picture-in-picture function. There is only one remote included with the unit, which can be used either as an IF remote (requiring a line of sight) or in UHF mode that can be used from a different room.

The ViP612 supports Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound and the Electronic Program Guide displays up to nine days of programming. We found that the Dish Network DVRs tend to be a little more complex than competing models when it comes to setup, and the ViP612 is no exception. Once up and running, though, the abbreviated feature set of the ViP612 makes it simple to operate. The DVR offers solid connectivity options including coaxial, RCA, S-Video, and HDMI, as well as a telephone jack, USB port and an Ethernet hook up. Whether you're viewing and recording in SD or HD, the Dish Network ViP612 DVR offers solid image quality, a responsive interface and excellent storage capacity.

Pros: Offers external hard drive option, stores up to 200 hours of SD programming or 30 hours of HD, over-the-air antenna connector
Cons: Not the easiest setup, no TV2 output, no PIP feature

Warranty
1 year, parts and labor