[idykenano]

I am trying to decide which Elgato tuner to buy and how to set it up with my computers. (250 Plus or Hybrid and on my G4 or Macbook)
Somethings I am considering:
-my macbook will shortly be getting a 320gb hard drive, so no lack of space for storing on either computer
-I would prefer to just hook my G4 up to the entertainment center and be able to watch recorded stuff by tv and set up recording from general area (this is also for the rest of my clan) as my macbook stays attached to my hip for most of the time.
-I know my G4 would not be able to handle the EyeTV Hybrid with a single 450mhz CPU (complete specs are in my signature), but would the separate hardware of the 250 Plus allow me to use my G4 as a media center? (my G4 has quite a bit of ram)

I need general opinions from those who have had experience with Elgato's products. I will be buying a tv tuner for sure, I'm just trying to gauge the best way to set things up. And if all else fails, I move the computers around later.

[DocMacPS]

A hardware based unit like the 250+ will certainly help ease CPU load when watching or recording. Still I think even SD - standard definition analog will bring your G4 to it's knees. And ElGato clearly states for HD content you've GOT to have a G5 or Intel. Maybe the bigger issue is you'd need to have installed a card for USB 2.0 ports to even use any modern tuner!

IF you have Analog Cable service - I'd almost recommend scouting up one of the original hardware-based early generation FireWire/Ethernet EyeTV units on eBay. I'd almost recommend the original USB 1.1 Eye TV USB, but I'm not sure it can do full-screen. (Been so long since I owned one, so much has changed.) Long story short, possibly buying a tuner that was made in the same ERA as your G4 would likely be the best match - as long as you can continue to get an Analog signal...

Doc - www.mac-digital-tv-tuners.com

[idykenano]

good call.
my g4 does have a usb 2.0 card in it already, but analog tv service isn't going to be around for too long.
thanks!