Buying Used DirecTV receivers from eBay

If you have Directv service, and don't mind standard definition, life is good for you too.

Recently I added a TV for a teenager,  and thought I'd share the knowledge.  All you have to do is buy a used receiver (why not get a DVR) off of ebay and activate it.   If you get a receiver new from Directv or any other retailer, you don't own it you lease it and can't resell it.  There may be contract implications and additional fees too, I don't know, I stay off the grid.   Search for directvR10 or DSR708.  People are selling these cheap because they have upgraded to HDTV.  They still work great.

I paid $40 "buy it now" because I didn't want to wait and bid.    If you bid you can probably get one for $20.  I have in the past.  DVR came with a remote that is worth $20 alone.  Some people are charging more, but that doesn't mean you can't find a good deal from a good seller if you shop around.  I got this one:

 Directv TiVo DVR R10 TV Receiver w/Remote

http://www.ebay.com/itm/250927020568?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649#ht_1470wt_1165

Hook it up using a multiswitch to split your existing cables from the dish, or add another dish.   All from ebay.    I got this one for $9, free shipping.

 New Zinwell MS3X4WB-Z Directv Approved 3x4 Multiswitch

http://www.ebay.com/itm/280712686789?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649#ht_499wt_1185

You can have at least 20 dishes and receivers if you want on one account. You can move them to your vacation home, etc.

Just call directv and tell them you bought a used receiver and want to activate it when it comes in the mail.  I don't know if there are any restrictions on using a used receiver, but I have done this at least 5 times between adding and replacing old dead units.   You used to be able to reuse the card that is in it, but no more.  Directv will make you buy a new card for $20 and will mail it to you.  Make sure they mark the receiver as owned rather than used in your account.  This should be no problem since these are so old, it wasn't for me.  They do charge $6/month for every receiver, so it isn't totally free.