Recently Astro launched their MAX service, which seems to be a DVB-S enabled PVR basically. What’s troubling is that, in their FAQ, they state that they’re competitively priced against DVD Recorders, which may be true but is similar to comparing apples and oranges.
Fact is, there is no other digital PVR available widely in this country. Enthusiasts might bring them in, but without wholesale prices they can be very expensive. An open market of these devices might help alleviate the situation, but it will be tough with local capitalist control.
We might probably see the same situation as well with MiTV. While its introduction will allow us two choose between the two giants, we’re still chained to their respective propriety devices, with Astro commanding satellite transmission, and MiTV with a firm grip on terrestrial airwaves.
Perhaps like the VHS and VCR, the independently manufactured PVR will make its way into the mainstream market eventually. But it looks like a long time coming.