Changing of the Guard at Elgato – Three New TV Sticks with More Performance and a New Look

Advanced tuner technology and an elegant aluminium finish are the hallmarks of the new generation of Elgato TV sticks.

Archive notice: This article was originally published on July 15, 2008. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.

Like the recently introduced EyeTV DTT Deluxe, EyeTV Hybrid, EyeTV Diversity and EyeTV DTT combine the latest chip technology with a slim design that complements the aluminium surfaces of current Macs. The new EyeTV Hybrid is even more flexible thanks to additional DVB-C and FM radio support, the new EyeTV DTT is even more compact, and the new EyeTV Diversity comes with improved hardware. All three sticks are available at the same price as their respective predecessors. EyeTV Diversity (€99.95 incl. VAT) is shipping immediately, while EyeTV DTT (€49.95 incl. VAT) and EyeTV Hybrid (€129.95) will follow in August.

EyeTV Hybrid – maximum flexibility

The new EyeTV Hybrid offers even more flexible reception options: its tuner can receive digital television via antenna (DVB-T) and now also via cable (DVB-C). In analogue operation, EyeTV Hybrid also supports FM radio reception (including RDS information). Where no digital television signal is available yet, EyeTV Hybrid can receive analogue television via antenna or cable. An adapter cable for composite and S-Video connections is also included, allowing VHS recorders and digital satellite or cable receivers to be connected to EyeTV Hybrid.

EyeTV Diversity – top performance on the move and at home

The second generation of EyeTV Diversity also arrives with an elegant aluminium finish and improved features. As the most powerful DVB-T tuner in the Elgato range, EyeTV Diversity provides excellent reception indoors, under difficult conditions and even while mobile. In dual-tuner mode, the stick makes it possible to watch one programme live while recording another. Reduced power consumption allows the new model to provide longer TV viewing on the move. For stationary use, a new splitter cable makes it easier to connect a rooftop antenna.

EyeTV DTT – compact entry-level model

Thanks to modern single-chip technology, EyeTV DTT (68×18×14 mm) is even more compact than its predecessor. Despite its full-size integrated IEC coaxial connector, Elgato’s entry-level model is narrow enough to plug directly into your Mac’s USB port. Adjacent connections, such as the MagSafe connector on a MacBook Pro, are not blocked.

Prices & availability

EyeTV DTT costs €49.95 (incl. VAT) and will come to market in August 2008. EyeTV Hybrid will also be available in August 2008 for €129.95 (incl. VAT). EyeTV Diversity is available immediately for €99.95 (incl. VAT). All TV sticks are available from Elgato’s online shop at http://www.elgato.com, the Apple Store or specialist retailers.

System requirements

Macintosh computer with a PowerPC G4, G5 or Intel Core processor, 512 MB RAM, integrated USB 2.0 port, and Mac OS X v10.4 (or later). Downloading programme data requires an internet connection. Important: HDTV in 720p or 1080i requires a Core 2 Duo processor.

DVB-T reception varies by location, so a rooftop antenna may be necessary where signal strength is low or heavily attenuated.