Englewood, Colo. — EchoStar unveiled a new HD receiver with multiroom support that will be added to its ViP set-top box line.
Model ViP222 is an advanced MPEG-4, dual-tuner receiver that is capable of delivering programming to two separate rooms, one in HD and the second in standard definition, the company said.
EchoStar said the set-top is designed for viewers who want the ability to receive HD channels and have a multi-room receiver capability at the same time. The ViP222 is said to be similar to EchoStar’s popular ViP622 DVR, without the built-in recording capability. The ViP222 will be positioned as a step-up from the ViP211, which only supports one TV.
The new receiver will be capable of tuning any of DISH Network’s 32 national HD channel offerings. It will also receive local HD channels in any of the 30 markets where those services are offered.
Other features of the box include onscreen caller ID, a host of interactive services through DishHOME Interactive TV, picture in picture and parental locks.
The ViP222 is available for lease to new and existing customers through DISH Network’s Digital Home Advantage plan.
