Today, satellite television is becoming increasingly popular. One of the most famous providers of these services is Tricolor TV. However, when buying a set of satellite equipment, you should focus on Tricolor TV receivers. The latest models will be preferable as they have more functionality compared to their predecessors. This means that in order to make the right choice and buy the optimal model, you need to know the differences between the receivers of this manufacturer. Selection criteria and a review of popular samples are in the material below.
Receiver selection criteria
When choosing a set-top box for Tricolor TV, you need to pay attention not only to the basic characteristics of the device, but also to other parameters. So, you need to decide whether the receiver is purchased with or without a dish, how many TVs will be connected to it, what maximum resolution it supports, and also what other capabilities the equipment has . All this will allow you to understand which receiver is best suited to the user’s needs, and choose the right device from a wide range of models.
Main characteristics
When choosing a receiver, you should pay attention to its technical parameters.
Important! The clock frequency must be at least 400 Hz, and the amount of RAM must be at least 256 MB. These parameters affect the performance of the receiver, as well as the ability to broadcast content in high HD quality.
When choosing, you should give preference to a combined tuner, as it will allow you to watch various types of television, eliminating the need to purchase additional devices. So, in Tricolor receivers there can be three combinations of tuners:
- satellite and terrestrial;
- satellite and cable;
- cable and broadcast.
With or without a plate
Typically, Tricolor receivers are sold complete with a dish and other satellite equipment, but the user can only buy a set-top box. This need often arises when you need to replace a broken receiver, exchange an old one for a new one, or purchase a client set-top box.
Advice! If you are buying a receiver for use as a client, you must tell the seller the brand of the existing set-top box so as not to encounter model incompatibility.
Number of connected TV receivers
The user can connect from one to several devices to Tricolor TV. If you plan to connect one TV receiver, you can choose a receiver with one or two tuners, as well as a CI+ conditional access module. When using a receiver with one tuner on a television panel, you can watch TV channels in Full HD quality. For the CI+ module, the TV receiver must have a corresponding CI connector and support the necessary standards. As for the dual-tuner receiver, you can connect a TV receiver and another device to it, for example, a tablet or game console. Also, a dual-tuner receiver will allow you to display images on two TVs and watch or record different TV channels on them.
Maximum image quality
The maximum possible image for Tricolor receivers is Full HD and Ultra HD. It will be available on HD set-top boxes with one or two tuners, as well as on conditional access modules.
Management and communications
When choosing a set-top box, be guided by its design, the location of the buttons, the card receiver, and the presence of connectors.
Advice! It is recommended to choose a device with a large display, because it displays the channel number and installed parameters. The buttons should be convenient and located on the front panel, this will allow you to control the receiver in case the remote control is lost or broken.
The following connectors may be located on the back wall of the set-top box:
- LNB IN – for connecting to the converter;
- HDMI – for connecting to a television panel and broadcasting content in the highest quality;
- Ethernet – for surfing the Internet or connecting to a home local network;
- VIDEO-RCA - for connecting to a TV receiver via tulips, but the output picture will be of low quality;
- AUDIO L, R – audio signal output to TV;
- LNB OUT – connection to a client receiver, however, when two receivers operate simultaneously, the number of frequencies is reduced;
- SCARD TV – transmission of audio and video signals to the television panel, as well as control of the receiver;
- SCARD VCR – auxiliary connector for transmitting image and sound to the television receiver, which is used if the main output is used to control the set-top box;
- RS232 – for the ability to update firmware via a computer;
- S/PDIF – for connecting to Hi-Fi equipment or home theater;
- POWER – to supply voltage to the receiver;
- 0v/12v – for power cable;
- CVBS – for transmitting a composite analog video signal;
- RF IN – for viewing terrestrial TV channels;
- RF OUT – for connecting to a TV receiver via a modulator at terrestrial TV frequencies.
Functionality
Modern receivers broadcast in accordance with the DVB-S (MPEG2) and DVB-S2 (MPEG4) standards. They come in the following types.
- FTA receivers are designed for broadcasting open television channels. Some models, using emulators, allow you to specify access keys. Many devices have an Ethernet port that allows you to connect to the Internet.
- Set-top boxes with a built-in decoder for possible access. To connect the equipment to the operator, you need to install the subscriber card in a special slot. Samples of this technology are used for broadcasting open and encrypted channels, as well as for accessing the Internet.
- Receivers with a CI slot for using a CAM module. They provide access to both free and closed channels, and also provide access to the Internet.
- Set-top boxes with CAM modules and several subscriber card receivers. Moreover, if this receiver has problems with the compatibility of various cards, then it is necessary to update its firmware.
- PVR receivers with built-in memory or USB connectors are designed for recording programs on USB devices.
- Combined receivers that can work as a satellite, terrestrial or cable receiver, and also have a built-in multimedia player for viewing various content.
Availability of additional functions
In addition to the basic functions, some Tricolor receivers have a number of additional features that simplify the setup of satellite equipment, allow you to view videos and images, and also solve other problems. Among the most important and in demand, the following functionality is highlighted: the use of a spectrum analyzer to facilitate setting up equipment for a satellite, the provision of technical information about the data flow, the presence of a multimedia player for viewing various content from USB devices, as well as support and playback of video files in JPEG format .
Also, some models are equipped with several tuners, which will allow you to simultaneously view and record various TV programs on different channels. In addition, it is very convenient when the receiver can be used as a web or FTP server, as well as for playing multimedia content from the famous video hosting YouTube.
Advice! It is recommended to buy a set-top box that has a network card with which you can connect to the Internet and local networks, or a built-in WiFi module.
New functionality of consoles 2021
In 2017-2018, GS GROUP (the official partner of Tricolor TV) replaced outdated receivers with the newest models. These include:
- GS B531M;
- GS B532M;
- GS B533M.
The first model is intended to replace outdated receivers on sale, the other two are offered for free sale.
Important! The new products that have appeared have the following advantages: the presence of a built-in hard drive with a capacity of 8 or 16 GB, gaming applications, a TV guide with teletext, subtitles and a timer, support for HD, Full HD and Ultra HD resolutions, reading QPSK and 8PSK formats for DVB-S, as well as QPSK for DVB-S2.
In addition to the above, the new samples have a conditional access system and a “Gallery” function for viewing images on a large screen.
Which receivers deserve additional attention?
We will not limit ourselves to the models already presented, since the range is quite wide. For users who are interested in which satellite receiver is best to choose for Tricolor TV, we will highlight a few more interesting solutions.
- GS A230 receiver went on sale at the end of 2016, but remained in the shadows for a long time. However, since the middle of last year, demand for the console has increased significantly. The receiver supports 4K Ultra HD format, which has become its main advantage. Recently, satellite TV has begun to actively move in the direction of 4K Ultra HD; Full HD is simply becoming irrelevant. Moreover, many more TVs have appeared on sale that support this format. Naturally, the operator wanted to provide its users with equipment that would allow them to watch their favorite programs in the best quality.
- Another interesting receiver for watching television is the GS E502 . It is suitable for those who are not able to watch live broadcasts. The model is equipped with a 500 GB hard drive. This volume allows you to record all programs and view them later in the recording.
- The highest quality model is considered GS B522 . Many users note that it is very reliable and rarely fails. Even the operator believes that this is the best receiver at the moment. The device has Internet access, as well as a function that allows you to duplicate content on a smartphone or tablet. There is also a built-in chip, which eliminates the use of a smart card. Compact dimensions allow you to place the attachment in any convenient place. It should be noted that the price of this model is quite affordable.
Exchange of old equipment
The discontinuation of Tricolor television receivers is due to the transition to the more high-tech MPEG-4 broadcast standard and the emergence of more modern models. Thus, the first receiver developed by Tricolor was the DRE-4000. Today this model is not produced, but is exchanged for updated samples at an additional cost.
A similar fate befell the model series 2006-2007 (DRE.5000, DRS.5001, DRS.5003), 2010-2013 (GS.8300 - GS.8308), 2014 (GS.U210B - GS.B211). The Tricolor company offers owners of these models, as part of a promotional program, to exchange them for updated samples. Receivers that continue to be produced, but are functionally obsolete, can also be exchanged for modern devices . A detailed list of models subject to exchange and a list of equipment for which it can be made can be seen on the official page of the service provider.
Advice! It is recommended for all owners of old equipment to exchange outdated receiver models for new ones. This will allow them to get a larger number of channels, the highest picture quality, the ability to record or pause the broadcast, start watching a program from the first minutes, and also have access to an archive of programs for the last 7 days.
It is also recommended to exchange an obsolete model for a new one because the cost of exchange is cheaper than purchasing a new set of equipment, and an additional advantage will be broadcasting satellite channels on mobile gadgets. Detailed conditions for this procedure are published on the official website. You can submit an exchange request via the Internet in your personal account or contact the nearest office.
TOP 5 best satellite set-top boxes
A comparative analysis of Tricolor receivers allows us to identify several of the best models that are the most popular and have received the maximum number of positive reviews. Among them there are both budget models with a basic set of functions, and premium ones with improved characteristics and greater capabilities.
GS E502
This Tricolor digital satellite receiver is not new, because it was released at the end of 2015. However, the extensive capabilities the device provides when used correctly make it one of the best receiver models from this service provider. So, the advantages of GS E502:
- the presence of two tuners;
- the ability to use it as a server: if you connect the set-top box to your home Wi-Fi network, the user will be able to watch satellite channels on their mobile device;
- built-in storage with a capacity of 500 GB, allowing you to record TV shows during broadcast or using a timer;
- the presence of HDMI, Ethernet ports, as well as 2 USB for connecting hard drives or flash drives.
The cost of the device ranges from 12,000 rubles. up to 14000 rub.
GS E502 on Yandex Market
GS E521
This model is very similar in functionality to the previous receiver, but it does not have such a large hard drive. The advantages of the GS E521 are:
- two DVB-S/S2 tuners;
- broadcasting satellite TV programs on mobile devices;
- wireless Wi-Fi module;
- 2 USB, Ethernet, HDMI.
Price – from 5000 rub.
up to 6000 rub. GS E521 on Yandex Market
GS A230
The key advantage of this receiver is the ability to broadcast content in Ultra HD format . This is the second improved model of this type from the Tricolor company; the first was unsuccessful and received many negative reviews. So, the advantages of the model:
- interaction with the receiver-client;
- 4K resolution support;
- 1 TB of internal memory;
- 2 USB (2.0 and 0), Ethernet, HDMI.
Price – from 12000 rub. up to 14000 rub.
GS A230 on Yandex Market
GS B522
Another high-quality budget receiver in the rating with a lot of positive reviews. Advantages of GS B522:
- maximum available resolution – Full HD;
- receiver-client support;
- work with additional services “Infokas”, “Infobanner”, “Tricolor TV Cinemas”;
- HDMI, Ethernet, USB connectors.
Price – from 5000 rub. up to 6000 rub.
GS B522 on Yandex Market
Top 10 satellite receivers
AX OPTICUM 4K HD60
When choosing the best satellite receivers of 2021, you should pay attention to the AX OPTICUM model costing from 7,600 rubles. Among its features are a powerful processor, 4K resolution and an operating system based on Android and Linux. And also - 2 USB ports (one version 2.0, the second - 3.0), a microSD card reader, an HDMI connector and a composite output.
The equipment supports broadcasting channels according to T2MI, Multistream, DVB-S, S2 and S2X standards, plays video in MPEG-2, NPEG-4, HEVC, H.264 and 265 formats. The maximum supported resolution is 4K, it is possible to connect to a home theater to get Dolby Digital 5.1 sound. The amount of RAM is 1 GB, the built-in storage is 8 GB. The Internet connection is wired only, but you can use an external USB Wi-Fi adapter to connect to a wireless network.
GOLDMASTER I-912B
The list of the best 4K satellite receivers includes the GOLDMASTER I-912B model for 8,400 rubles, running Android 6.0 and having impressive functionality at a far from the highest cost. Among its capabilities are support for CAM modules, access cards and motorized antennas, Internet connection, recording and reading data from an external hard drive (and not just from a USB flash drive).
For control, a remote control with a keyboard unit and position sensors is used. And support for ZigBee technology allows you to use the receiver as a control device for a smart home.
The list of advantages of the model includes support for the most popular television broadcasting standards and 4K resolution. And also - 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal memory. Disadvantages include long channel switching times, poor ventilation systems, and user-reported problems with using YouTube.
VU+ Zero 4K
One of the best models for receiving satellite channels, although not the most affordable. Supporting almost all popular television standards (except DVB-C/T2), the receiver allows you to view content in up to 4K format, can be equipped with an external hard drive and can be controlled from most mobile devices.
Other features include good picture quality at any resolution, a built-in player for playing videos and audio, viewing photos and images. The receiver has a built-in browser, applications for accessing YouTube and the social network Twitter. The disadvantages include the lack of a gigabit network connection and the relatively high price of 12,000 rubles.
MECOOL K7 DVB-T2/S2/C2
Among the best satellite receivers we can note the MECOOL K7 DVB-T2/S2/C2 model, which is equipped with both a powerful processor and a powerful video chip for watching video in 4K format. To store data, you can use the built-in memory of 64 GB (device RAM - 4 GB) or external drives. The operating system is Android 9.0, which allows you to install many different applications from the Google Play store, including games.
The advantages of the model include the presence of a combined output for connecting to old TVs and support for all modern video codecs. There is support for HDR technology to improve picture quality and reception of broadcast channels. We didn’t notice any downsides, other than the not-so-low price of 10.5-11 thousand rubles.
Openbox AS4K CI Pro
The set-top box, which not only supports DVB-S television broadcasting standards, but also allows connection via USB to a 3G modem and a DVB-T2 tuner, is equipped with 2 GB of RAM and a 16 GB drive. It also supports working with T2-MI transponders and can simultaneously record up to 3 TV programs.
The list of advantages of a receiver costing about 9,000 rubles. — connection via LAN and Wi-Fi, the presence of a learning control panel and a card reader. The resolution of the set-top box is SD, HD and 4K UHDTV, and the cost is not higher than average for a model with such functionality. The only serious drawback is the short power cord and the lack of instructions for setting up the buttons.
Formular S Turbo 4K PRO
The reason to buy Formuler S Turbo 4K PRO may be its compatibility with mobile devices running Android and iOS. There is also a CI+ slot for connecting additional access modules, and support for most popular video codecs, including H.265 HEVC. Included with a device costing from RUB 8,500. comes with a Wi-Fi adapter and an IR receiver, allowing you to place the set-top box in any convenient place.
Other features include three high-speed USB ports and work with cardsharing servers. The disadvantages include support for a wired connection at a speed of only 100 Mbit/s, and a maximum storage capacity of 32 GB.
Galaxy Innovations S8120
A satellite receiver with a large number of functions - by default, available services are ruTorrent, Google Maps and YouTube, internet radio Shoutcast, RSS news feed. There is a Timeshift option and parental controls, the ability to update software and transfer the channel list to another receiver.
Purchasing such a device will allow you to turn on your computer less often - even for downloading videos from torrents, the capabilities of the S8120 set-top box are sufficient. Maximum resolution - Full HD, network connection - wired. You can use a USB modem for wireless Internet access. Other advantages include high-quality assembly, quick setup and a price starting from 7,000 rubles. The disadvantages include the presence of only one USB port.
- TV and audio
Top 9 TVs for a summer residence under 15,000 rubles
NTV-Plus 710HD
The easy-to-use model works with NTV-Plus satellite television and supports receiving radio programs. It also allows you to play content from external media, provides high-quality sound thanks to support for Dolby Digital 5.1 technology, and can connect to both new and old TVs.
The list of advantages includes high quality for a price within 5,000 rubles, easy navigation and quick response when switching channels. Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting the small size of the operating memory - only 256 MB, which is why the set-top box does not support 4K. The set-top box does not have a built-in storage device, nor does it have an operating system or the ability to install applications.
Openbox S3 CI HD
Among the best Tricolor receivers with an affordable price, one can note the Openbox S3 CI HD model for 4,200 rubles. Reasons to choose it include support for T2-MI transponders and multi-channel audio, an included external IR receiver, simultaneous image output across multiple interfaces, and an ergonomic front cover.
The advantage is the presence of an RF modulator and a large set of connectors for connecting to both new and old TVs. The disadvantages include support only for satellite channels NIV+ and Tricolor, as well as problems with reading some memory cards.
World Vision Foros Combo T2/S2
One of the most cost-effective offers, allowing us to consider the receiver the best in terms of price-to-features ratio. The World Vision Foros Combo model has support for television signals of most standards, a USB Wi-Fi adapter and T2-MI transponders. And also - control from a smartphone and several ways to download playlists.
A plus is the ability to connect to old TVs and a simple interface. There is a display and 2 USB ports. True, some users have complaints about the firmware and the lack of built-in memory. But these disadvantages are compensated by the price of 1800 rubles.
Satellite receivers work great even with simple TV models. If you need an inexpensive TV, take a look at our selection of TVs costing up to RUB 10,000.
