4k

Yes, there are only a few 4K channels mostly PPV and Documentaries and sports. DTV works without an internet connection but you will not have access to On Demand, start at the beginning or paying for PPV with the remote.

DirecTV does not require the internet. There are a few 4K channels. It requires a specific setup which depends on your existing one if you might sacrifice something for it.

What are the models of each box you have?

How many 4K TVs were you planning to use?

Will this be more total TVs than you currently have on the service?

I was told that a genie add-on was needed for my DVR.  If I go to this expense, $120 I was told, will it get me all 4K programming as more is added in the future or will daily, every day programming ever be added?

The future of 4K is unknown. It is still in the early days, which primarily requires more content to be produced in it for more networks to update to a 4K broadcast. Programming added daily would not be realistic.

Some agents aren't knowledgeable about older setups or just push an upgrade too hard regardless if it is good for you or not. To give you proper guidance, what are the models of each box you have now?

You need an HR54 or an HS17 Genie2 to get the 4K channels, then you need a C61K (wired only) or the C71WK Gemini mini client to watch them in 4K.  Most content providers are only using 1080i or 720 so that is all DTV can send you.

But if you replace a dedicated receiver with a Client, that can be a downgrade for some. With knowing yur exact models we can let you know what changes you should take into account for your decision.

It was true for years that the HR 44 did not support 4k clients. Directv has upgraded the HR44 so that it now will serve as a pass through for 4k just as the HR 54. A C61k client is still required.

@Good4u 

Really? Can you provide a link to a source verifying that information?

THE HR44 can record 4K programs and send them to a 4K mini client to view in 4K, it just doesn't get the 4K channels. 

@Good4u 

The HR44 was used in the early days to test 4K only with 4K PPVS. It ended up not having the hardware to keep up which is why 4K requires HR54 instead.

The HR44 can technically use a 4K Client, just will not provide the new 4K channels to it.

Where are you getting the information that the HR44 can now passthrough 4K like they now can do with the HR54? If that is factual we would certainly like more details on that.

The only unit I’m interested in getting 4K on is an HR54. Thanks. 

Is the HR54 your only box?

The HR54 was to far into production to change the HDMI port to an HDMI 2.0 that is needed to output 4K so it never will.  You have to get a C61K or C71WK mini client to watch the 4K programs in 4K.

@1dcoulas 

I understand you only want 4K on one unit. Since the HR54 does not output 4K itself it would require some equipment updates. Depends on all the boxes you have what the best option would be and if there is anything you need to be aware of losing if you make the change.

Thank you both!