First off I would like to say I’ve used other HDhomeruns in the past, a duo and a quattro. The Flex 4k is the next step.
The ATSC 3.0 standard is solid compared to ATSC 1.0
I was getting some fringe channels from Michigan across Lake Huron this past week through tropospheric ducting and while 1.0 channels weren’t available after a bit, the 3.0 channels stayed solid. I watched some NHL playoffs on ABC because I could.
The ATSC 3.0 channels look great and the lower bit rate shows that even using the HEVC codec makes video look sharp.
The only downside was getting the audio codec for my pc, but once I got the codec it was all systems go.
I have yet to try this with a firestick, but I would assume it would be great. As some of you know this is a network tuner. It’ll only play through an app or if you’re tech savvy you can take the channel stream and use many other programs to run the video stream.
Hooking it up is simple. Plug in the antenna in the coax input, plug an Ethernet rj45 cable in the Ethernet port. Plug in the power supply.
Download the software, update the firmware, run a channel scan and you’re good to go.
Luckily I haven’t come across any of the channels that have DRM, but as far as I know SiliconDust is aware and it should be fixed with a firmware update.
I use NextPVR to record any ATSC 1.0 channel, there isn’t anything besides the HDHomeRun app that can record the 3.0 channels, but you have to pay for that service (and I don’t know if it’s available in Canada).
This review is longer than anticipated, but I feel like I have so much to talk about.
Hope this helps other customers trying to cut the cord.
| Brand | SiliconDust |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Silicondust USA Inc |
| Place of Business | Silicondust USA Inc, 2150 Portola Ave, Suite D #143, Livermore, CA 94551, USA |
| Model | HDFX-4K(CA) |
| Part Number | HDFX-4K(CA) |
| Tuner Technology | ATSC 3.0/1.0 |
| Compatible Devices | Android, FireTV, AppleTV, Roku, Sony, XBox, iPhone, iPad, Win10/11, Mac |
| Batteries Required | No |
| Connector Type | Ethernet |
| Does it contain liquid? | No |
| Includes Remote | Yes |
| Manufacturer | Silicondust USA Inc |
| Item model number | HDFX-4K(CA) |
| Parcel Dimensions | 17.8 x 12.6 x 5.8 cm; 380 g |
| ASIN | B092JQFM69 |
