Easy installation, wide range of functions, HDTV razor sharp!

The IMPERIAL HD 3 max holds, what it promises: The device is connected to the TV-cable and connected via SCART or HDMI better (for HDTV) on TV - ready!
Specific settings or further programming is not mandatory. The public broadcaster automatically land in its HD version on the corresponding program space. The viewing experience is fantastic here, assuming the associated television is HD (ready) -tauglich and of good quality (Note: My unit is a plasma TV from Panasonic, model TX-P42X10E).

Operation is simple and is entirely controlled with the remote control via an on-screen menu. The most common functions are intuitively executed because they follow the usual rules of a menu control. The enclosed exclusively in German manual contains comprehensive information whose weakness lies however in a missing index and not existing diagrams, the z. B. could illustrate the peripherals to be connected better. Some terms and abbreviations for the sattelite technical laymen are little understood. But all in all it assists them with the general questions of the normal user. The manufacturer's (digital box) Homepage however, contains little information. (The paid hotline I can not judge).

The adjustment to your own needs or create one (or more) channel list (s) simply works, but cumbersome because the programs can only be "moved" from the large stations list what z. B. program ranked No.. 238 to no. 7 is relatively cumbersome. However, the most common programs are already on the front seats. The radio list is created identically. A child lock keeps the little ones finding the children's channel from unpleasant surprises.

With up to 2 sec "lead time" for a transmitter, the "zapping" appears relatively laboriously through the programs. By contrast, the quick access (separate button on the remote control) on the program information that is provided by the broadcasters, handy as also an overview of the neighboring programs are offered.

On the device, an external hard drive can be connected via USB (Recommended max 1TB;. Formatted through the receiver) so that the receiver can be upgraded to the hard disk recorder. Timer programming recording of television programs is possible with just one click on the remote control via the "Electronic Program". A manual re-adjustment on the recording time is easily possible. (Very nice here would be an integrated hard drive, but this would in turn increase the purchase price).

The receiver has its on-off switch, unfortunately, on the back surface, which makes the complete switching off the device for the purpose of power saving, depending on the installation in the TV cabinet, are cumbersome. After an energy-saving switching power supply is integrated.

A slot for receiving a CI + module is present. However, to me the advertising content at the moment appears the paid use of the private HD + channels (Pro7, RTL, Sat1, etc.) in conjunction with the restrictions regarding. Not recommended. I refer in this context to the critical customer reviews the buyer an HD + card.

CONCLUSION: A solid and upgradeable digital HDTV satellite receiver in chic design - with USB upgradeable to (external) hard disk recorder.