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Channel Master CM-7500TB1 DVR+ Dual-tuner DVR with 1TB hard drive, records over-the-air TV broadcasts

Item # 659CM7500

More and more people are looking for an alternative to writing that big monthly check to their satellite or cable...

More and more people are looking for an alternative to writing that big monthly check to their satellite or cable...

30 questions - 163 answers

Item # 659CM7500

Shop all Channel Master DVRs

About the Channel Master CM-7500TB1 DVR+

Steve Kindig

Hey, cord-cutters!

More and more people are looking for an alternative to writing that big monthly check to their satellite or cable TV provider. It's understandable — why pay for a zillion channels that you never watch? Channel Master's latest solution is the CM-7500TB1 over-the-air DVR. It makes it easy to record your local high-def TV broadcasts without paying for a subscription. Simply connect the CM-7500TB1 to an indoor or outdoor antenna and start recording your favorite network shows in crystal-clear HD — to watch whenever you want.

Hey, cord-cutters!

More and more people are looking for an alternative to writing that big monthly check to their satellite or cable TV provider. It's understandable — why pay for a zillion channels that you never watch? Channel Master's latest solution is the CM-7500TB1 over-the-air DVR. It makes it easy to record your local high-def TV broadcasts without paying for a subscription. Simply connect the CM-7500TB1 to an indoor or outdoor antenna and start recording your favorite network shows in crystal-clear HD — to watch whenever you want.

Over-the-air HD — amazing picture quality, free for the taking

Channel Master CM-7500TB1 on-screen guide

The on-screen guide makes it easy to select and record programs. Over-the-air channels and streamed web content are accessible from one screen.

The CM-7500TB1 is the skinniest DVR we've ever seen, yet it can record up to 160 hours of high-def programs, and provides great DVR conveniences like pause and forward/reverse skip using the remote control. And as we've told people for years, regular over-the-air high-def picture quality is as good or better than cable or satellite HD.

This is a dual-tuner DVR, so you can watch one over-the-air channel while simultaneously recording another, or set it to record shows on two different channels at the same time. Setting up timer recordings is a snap. The free on-screen program guide lets you schedule recordings up to 14 days in advance.

The CM-7500TB1 is surprisingly easy to hook up and set up. First, connect an indoor or outdoor antenna suited to your distance from local station transmitters. Next, make a single-cable HDMI connection to your HDTV, then follow the step-by-step instructions of the on-screen setup wizard.

This DVR works great with virtually any HDMI-equipped TV, and it's a terrific solution for projector-based home theaters, since projectors never include a built-in tuner. Note: This DVR cannot record satellite or cable TV signals.

Stream sports and shows from Sling, movies from Vudu, music from Pandora, and everything else from YouTube

Supplementing over-the-air channels with streamed Internet content makes cutting the cord a whole lot more appealing. The CM-7500TB1 makes it easy to access great Internet entertainment — simply connect a network cable to the DVR's Ethernet port. Want live sports? SlingTV offers live streaming of several TV stations, including ESPN. You like movies? Vudu's on-demand service has thousands of HD titles available for instant streaming. 

You can also enjoy Pandora's endless jukebox of streamed music, and watch music videos and concert clips from around the world on YouTube.

Shop our selection of HDMI cables.

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Product highlights:

  • built-in ATSC tuners receive free over-the-air digital TV broadcasts (antenna required)
  • dual-tuner design lets you to watch one channel while simultaneously recording another, or record two programs at the same time
  • records up to 160 hours of HD content to the built-in 1TB hard drive
  • versatile playback modes, including pause, fast-forward/fast reverse, and forward/reverse skip
  • supports standard- and high-definition video resolutions up to 1080p
  • setup wizard with auto channel scanning
  • easy timer recording with the on-screen program guide
  • access streamed Internet content with built-in apps for Vudu®, Pandora®, YouTube®, and SlingTV
    • SlingTV streams select TV channels live, including ESPN and ESPN2 (subscription required)
  • HDMI output to connect to the TV (cable not included)
  • RF input for antenna signal
  • Ethernet port for a wired connection to a home network
  • 2 USB ports for connecting the hard drive and an optional Wi-Fi dongle
  • mini optical digital audio output
  • remote control
  • AC power adapter
  • 10"W x 1/2"H x 8"D
  • weight: 1.1 lbs.
  • warranty: 1 year parts & labor
  • MFR # CM-7500TB1

What's in the box:

  • HDTV over-the-air receiver/DVR
  • AC power adapter with attached 58" DC output cord (DC output: 12V 1.46A)
  • IR remote control
  • Two CR2032 Lithium batteries (installed in remote)
  • Quick Start Guide
  • "Read This First!" note

Customer reviews for Channel Master CM-7500TB1 DVR+

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More details on the Channel Master CM-7500TB1 DVR+

Stacey B.

Product Research

Features

High Definition OTA DVR: The Channel Master DVR+ (Model CM-7500TB1) is a High Definition OTA (over-the-air) digital video receiver and recorder. You can receive and record over-the-air broadcasts in HD and SD for later playback. You can also connect to a high-speed broadband Internet service to enjoy online streaming services, such as VUDU and Pandora. DVR+ comes with a full-function IR remote, which can control multiple brands of TVs.

Dual HDTV Tuners: The DVR+ is equipped with two ATSC tuners, which allow you to record two programs at once, or watch one program while recording another. Just connect an antenna to enjoy subscription-free broadcast programming from your local stations at resolutions of up to 1080i and 1080p via HDMI. The DVR+ is not compatible with existing cable and satellite connections.

Internet Ready: The DVR+ has an RJ45 Ethernet port for connecting the unit to your router via a LAN cable to receive broadband Internet service. In addition to the online streaming services, an Internet connection provides the unit with automatic software updates, and extends the program guide to 14 days. The optional Channel Master Wi-Fi adapter will allow you to connect the DVR+ to the Internet wirelessly.

Note: To enjoy high-quality video streaming, a 2 Mbps minimum connection speed is recommended.

Built-in Streaming Services: The DVR+ features integrated streaming services and apps, including VUDU, a premium streaming service for your favorite TV shows, movies, and new-release DVD titles, YouTube, and Pandora, a music streaming service. Access to rent or buy VUDU movies on-demand using the DVR+ requires an account with the VUDU service. You can sign up directly on the DVR+ receiver, or use a web browser to sign up. If you already have a VUDU account, you can sign in from the DVR+ receiver.

Electronic Program Guide: A built-in electronic program guide allows you to see what programs are on each broadcast channel at any given time. From the guide, you can change channels, set the DVR+ to record a program (up to 64 timers), or set a reminder for a program you want to watch in the future. The program guide also directly integrates the available streaming services and apps, so you can find the programs or movies you're looking for. The program guide provides up to 14 days of guide data with an Internet connection, but only 2 days without.

1 TB Hard Disk Drive: The DVR+ has a 1 terabyte (TB) internal hard disk drive for storing your recorded programs. The memory allows you to pause or rewind live TV for about 15 minutes (up to 2 hours with an optional external USB hard disk drive). You can also store up to 160 hours of HD programs or 640 hours of SD programs. Rear-mounted USB 2.0 ports let you connect an optional external hard drive for additional storage, if desired.

Note: If an external hard drive is connected then you can only view the recordings that are saved on the external hard drive. To view the recordings on the internal hard drive simply unplug the external hard drive and the ones saved to the internal drive will show up.

Remote Control: The DVR+ has a front-panel power button, but no other controls. The supplied remote control contains all of the remaining controls you'll need. The remote is equipped with a numeric keypad for direct channel tuning, as well as + and - buttons for channel scanning. Transport controls are included (play, pause, stop, fast forward, rewind, skip forward and skip backward) for watching recorded programs. Special color-coded buttons let you rapidly move through the program guide (-2.5 hours, -1 day, +1day), or search for the desired program by title. The remote is pre-programmed with remote codes for hundreds of TV manufacturers. The remote is powered by two CR2032 batteries (installed).

Connections: The DVR+ features the following rear-panel connections:

  • RF In: Female F-type connector for your over-the-air antenna
  • Optical Out: 3.5mm mini-optical jack to connect to a high-quality digital audio decoding system (outputs Dolby Digital Plus)
  • HDMI Out: Provides high-definition digital audio and video to the TV. (HDMI 1.3a with HDCP 1.3)
  • Ethernet Jack:RJ-45 Ethernet port for connecting to your modem (10/100 Base-T)
  • USB Port: Two USB 2.0 host ports (Type A) for connecting optional USB Wi-Fi adapter and optional external hard drive
  • IR Input: 3.5mm jack for optional IR extension cable
  • Power DC: DC connector for supplied external power supply

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Customer Q&A

30 questions already asked

Q
Is there any way to hook this up to multiple TV's, like a whole house DVR?
j  Oct 21, 2016
2 answers
A
The above answer is correct .....you would have to use a splitter.
douglas  Aug 17, 2018
A
The Channel Master CM-7500TB1 DVR+ only features a single HDMI output to connect to your television. You could potentially use an HDMI splitter to split the HDMI signal to multiple TV's in your home; however all of the TV's would "mirror" the same content in that case--meaning you can't watch a TV show from the DVR in one room, then a different show in another. If you have further questions, feel free to contact an Advisor directly by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. I hope that helps!
david  Oct 26, 2016 (Staff)
Q
Can the DVR record shows through the sling TV app?
jeff  Sep 09, 2016
2 answers
A
Unless you have a way to broadcast to this unit which can only record Digital Channels
douglas  Jan 30, 2017
A
Not sure. Mine is only set up with a TV antenna and it records all TV channels.
jeffrey  Sep 10, 2016
Q
The time setting on the Channel Master sometimes drifts away from the correct time. Is there a way to get the Channel Master to automatically synchronize with the correct time? Thanks if you can help.
hampton  Jun 13, 2016
2 answers
A
This should not happen with the Ethernet connection to your Internet modem, as the time is automatically updated off the internet along with the extended program guide. Check your Ethernet cable connections; maybe the cable is loose or the cable is bad. Try another cable.
taru  Jun 24, 2016
A
If you purchased the product from Crutchfield, feel free to contact our Tech Support team. They can walk you through the settings on the product and see if there may be a fix. Our toll-free Tech Support number is printed on your invoice, and is also available under the "My Orders" tab in the "My Account" section of our website. If you did not purchase the unit from Crutchfield, then you may want to contact the manufacturer. You can also post your question in our forums: http://community.crutchfield.com. Or try our online support center: http://crutchfield.custhelp.com/app/answers/list/kw/.
kristina  Jun 15, 2016 (Staff)
Q
Is it easy to skip past commercials or do you have to fast forward through the commercials ?
cocolat  Jun 13, 2016
5 answers
A
The only way that we know to get past commercials is to fast-forward through them. You can increase the fast-forward speed to get rid of the commercial faster. We increase the fast-forward speed so that it is 32 times faster than the normal speed (32X). We hope that this helps.
hampton  Jun 13, 2016
A
Super easy. It has a 15 sec forward button
michael  Jun 13, 2016
A
I recommend "jumping" thru them with the "curved arrow" symbol.
holly  Jun 13, 2016
A
One button skips forward 30 seconds. Another skips back 10 seconds.
erland  Jun 13, 2016
A
To skip past commercials first you need to record the program. Then to skip the commercials you need to fast forward to the end of the commercial. It can be fast if you choose the higher speeds from 2x, 8x, 32x or 64x.
eugene  Jun 13, 2016
Q
Can you hook this DVR up to a cable box?
mtbfool  Jun 09, 2016
5 answers
A
Sorry I don't know - I have mine hooked to the antenna
william  Jun 12, 2016
A
I do not have cable service so I use this DVR to record over-the-air programs received via TV antena.
norman  Jun 10, 2016
A
No. It receives OTA broadcasts only.
albert  Jun 10, 2016
A
I expect that the coaxial cables will attach to the DVR, but I doubt it would work as the tuners in the DVR work on over-the-air signals.
jeffrey  Jun 10, 2016
A
I doubt that it can be done, but I haven't tried it.
darryl  Jun 10, 2016
Q
Should the cooling fan run 24/7 on my Channel Master CM7500-TB 1 even when the unit is in standby or off mode?
albert  Mar 21, 2016
2 answers
A
Al - if mine is running 24/7 I can't hear it. Assuming from your question that you have one or have a friend who has one that does run continuously I would contact Channel Master direct to have them verify their design intent on the fan operation. Good Luck, Norman
norman  Mar 21, 2016
A
Mine does not.
christopher  Mar 21, 2016
Q
Will this play and burn DVDs?
terry  Feb 14, 2016
5 answers
A
This unit will neither play nor burn DVDs.
edward  Feb 16, 2016
A
No it will not.
david  Feb 16, 2016
A
No, it will not play DVD's nor burn DVD's. There is a process that enables you to make a DVD from a recording which requires down loading special software to a lap top and then plugging the lap top into the Channel Master's USB port. Kind of complicated so I have not done that.
theodore  Feb 15, 2016
A
No, there is no disc drive.
michael  Feb 15, 2016
A
No. This records to an internal hard drive only. You can add an external hard drive for more storage, but you can only use one hard drive at a time. No simple switching. No disk drive in the unit. Haven't tried to hook up to an external disk drive.
holly  Feb 15, 2016
Q
can a extra remote be purchased for this DVR ?
chief tech.  Feb 12, 2016
1 answer
A
Thanks for your question. We do not sell the remote individually. You can contact Channel Master Customer Support M-F 7am to 5pm PST 877-746-7261 to see if they have it available for purchase. Hope that helps.
kenneth  Feb 12, 2016 (Staff)
Q
Can you starting watching a recording before it has finished recording?
terry  Feb 10, 2016
13 answers
A
Yes!
paul  Feb 21, 2016
A
Yes. You can also pause live programs for "quite awhile" and resume. I have been very happy with this recorder AND the PBS transmissions are received with greater clarity over the air than the compressed signals from cable and dish providers. Awesome NOVA/ Nature programs.
christopher  Feb 17, 2016
A
Yes, you can.
don  Feb 11, 2016
A
Yes. We love or CM. It beats paying for channels you don't use.
wanda  Feb 11, 2016
A
Yes! We regularly start watching shows 10 minutes after start time and then skip commercials the whole hour. End up watching the last segment real time.
christopher  Feb 11, 2016
A
Terry, I have not tried to do this, but I don't think you can. If you are recording to the HD and stop to replay from the HD you would not have finished the program. You can watch a different channel while recording on another. Have been very pleased with the signal reception and the TV guide feature for seeing what programs will air at given times. Norman
norman  Feb 11, 2016
A
Yes!
daryl w.  Feb 10, 2016
A
Yes you can
robin  Feb 10, 2016
A
yes you can
william  Feb 10, 2016
A
You can watch it directly (over the cable, satellite, or air) while it is being recorded, or from the DVR recording. It is best to have several minutes of the program recorded before you start watching from the DVR, especially if you plan to zap through commercials. The latest software upgrade works well. The programming information may be worse.
erwin  Feb 10, 2016
A
Yes you can.
leonard  Feb 10, 2016
A
Yes, you can watch a recording any time after it has started recording. You can also watch a recording that has finished recording while recording two other channels.
ralph  Feb 10, 2016
A
Yes. If you catch up to the current time when watching the recording, it will switch you back to live tv (to whatever channel you were watching before you started watching the recording) and keep recording the show.
michael  Feb 10, 2016
Q
While watching a previously recorded show off the HDD can the Channel Master still record two channels simultaneously while you are watching the program that was already recorded on the HDD?
gary  Jan 04, 2016
5 answers
A
Yes it will. Just make sure the DVR is set to one of the channels being recorded.
mark  Jan 05, 2016
A
Yes!!!! You can watch a previously recorded show while recording two separate shows simultaneously, all from the internal hard drive.
david  Jan 04, 2016
A
Some times it seems like yes, and then other times it is no. Haven't figured it out yet.
holly  Jan 04, 2016
A
Yes.
erland  Jan 04, 2016
A
Yes, that should work and I'm pretty sure I've done that. Also, if you can split your antenna input, sending one to the TV and one to the DVR+, you can actually watch a live show directly on the TV while recording two shows on the DVR+.(of course, you won't be able to use the dvr functions like pause, rewind, etc.when watching directly on the tv).
michael  Jan 04, 2016
Q
Does this DVR have a wireless wi-fi connection?
brian  Dec 25, 2015
7 answers
A
you have to buy the dongle to use wifi
don  Dec 27, 2015
A
No. Must buy dongle. For $39.99
christopher  Dec 27, 2015
A
For an extra $40 or so you can buy a WiFi adapter for the DVR+. I found that reception with the adapter was too poor to connect with the internet, even though the DVR+ and router were separated by less than 25 feet and three sheetrock walls. I had to send the adapter back and install an ethernet cable. Scheduling information used by the DVR+ is barely adequate and programs that come on late because of a long football game, for instance, are often missed or cut off early. Controls are adequate but not as user friendly as the two commercial DVRs we have had.
erwin  Dec 27, 2015
A
Yes . The DVR comes with a 1 inch wi fi adapter that plugs into the DVR USB port. Works good for me.
kerry  Dec 26, 2015
A
The Channel Master CM 7500TB1 has a LAN cable connection but WIFI is not built in. However, you can add WIFI capability with a USB dongle. Crutchfield (and others) sells one. Just do a search on "CM7500 WIFI adapter".
albert  Dec 26, 2015
A
Brian .... there is option for either wired or wireless connectivity to the DVR to access selected Internet content. Primarily you get ChannelmasterTV that offers ~20 broadcast channels. YouTube and Pandora are also available. Had not connected mine to these features until your question arrived so did it in 15 minutes. Hope this helps you. I continue to enjoy mine for recording selected programs and for just having the Program Guide to view what programs are being aired in the evening.
norman  Dec 26, 2015
A
No it doesn't but my TV has the wifi
william  Dec 26, 2015
Q
If the internal hard drive fails, will the DVR still be functional if there is an external hard drive attached?
william  Nov 30, 2015
5 answers
A
That is a very good question and I don't have an answer. I have never had a need for an external drive but it might be a good idea to have one if it keeps your system up. I had to do a reformat on my drive once and lost everything and the system won't work at all if the hard drive is messed up..
greg  Dec 03, 2015
A
My hard drive has failed and it works fine with a external one
edmund  Dec 01, 2015
A
No idea! I guess I'll find out if the drive fails.
erland  Nov 30, 2015
A
I have not attached a hard drive, so have no experience.
eugene  Nov 30, 2015
A
We haven't had this happen yet. So I haven't any idea. Sorry.
holly  Nov 30, 2015
Q
Can you set this DVR to record only new episodes of a show?
rodney  Nov 23, 2015
10 answers
A
Yes, you can. Make sure you have an internet connection to keep your program Guide updated. Select the program series that you want to record in the Guide / Press OK. The Program Options window will open. Select Record The Program and more options will appear. Select Record New Programs With This Name. If you already have a program series set up, you can change from recording all programs to recording new programs (or vice versa): Press Menu / OK / Edit The Series / Filter. Use the up arrow to select either the All Programs or New Programs option showing and change it with the left / right arrows. Then select Update.
albert  Nov 28, 2015
A
I have successfully set this DVR to record all occurrences of a show. In my experience it has not excluded repeat airings. Also, I have not tested it to see if it will record a show that moves into a different time slot. The reliability depends on the show guide. I do not have an internet connection so my DVR must rely on the over-the-air guide which isn't 100%. I do not know if the guide available with an internet connection would give greater functionality for show selection.
chris  Nov 26, 2015
A
I don't think you can record just new episodes only an episode with the same title.
robert  Nov 24, 2015
A
Yes, you can. It is dependent on the info in the guide, so occasionally it will record a rerun that is labeled as new or miss a new show that is labeled as old. No different than the Verizon DVR that I had.
earl  Nov 24, 2015
A
Rod .... What a good idea ... Unfortunately "no" .... The "record" button simply toggles "on/off" for the set time you set-up.
norman  Nov 24, 2015
A
Yes. The options when you select a program from the "guide" for recording are whether you want to record a) just that episode, b) all episodes, or c) only new episodes. I use option "c" all the time.
jeffrey  Nov 24, 2015
A
This DVR has a guide and setup like most cable DVR's, so you can go in and choose what you want to record, and I know my wife does series recordings occasionally.
leonard  Nov 24, 2015
A
No, I don't think so.
daryl w.  Nov 24, 2015
A
Yes, it can record all shows by "the same name" or "only new shows with this name."
don  Nov 24, 2015
A
Yes
robert  Nov 24, 2015
Q
I think this question was asked and not understood by all respondents. While the DVR is recording two channels, is it possible to play back a previously recorded program? I understand that you can watch live TV by splitting the antenna signal and switching the TV input to Antenna, but this is a different question. My DTV-Pal allows me to watch a recording while recording two other programs, so I've gotten used to this.
douglas  Oct 25, 2015
10 answers
A
I think you can watch a previously recorded program while recording two others, but I don't recall having tried it. I've never had a situation where I could not play back a recording anytime I wanted.
eugene  Oct 29, 2015
A
To answer your question, yes you can playback a previously recorded program while recording two other channels.
ralph  Oct 28, 2015
A
Here is an addendum to my earlier answer which says that, yes, you can record two shows while watching a third, already recorded show. This is how my DVR is connected: The signal from the antenna enters a splitter. One cable leaves the splitter and goes to the TV, and the other cable leaves the splitter and goes to the DVR. Finally, an HDMI cable goes from the DVR to the TV. It is emphasized that, while you are recording too shows off-the-air, the show that you watch must already reside on the DVR. That is, while you are recording two shows, you cannot watch a third show off-the-air.
hampton  Oct 28, 2015
A
Yes. It can be done. (Not by me, but it can be done.) My wife is now recording the first World Series game plus a second off-the-air, live program while watching a previously recorded program.
hampton  Oct 28, 2015
A
Yes, You can watch a pre-recorded program while recording 2 others.
greg  Oct 28, 2015
A
Yes, while the DVR is recording two channels you can play back a previously recorded program. (You need to have the external hard drive to be able to record two programs at once.)
david  Oct 28, 2015
A
Yes. It is possible to simultaneously record two programs and watch a previously recorded program.
edward  Oct 28, 2015
A
Yes you can
edmund  Oct 27, 2015
A
Yes
erland  Oct 27, 2015
A
Yes. You can watch a previously recorded program while recording two others, all at the same time.
tim  Oct 27, 2015
Q
Do I need to have internet access to use this CM DVR on my OTA TV?
ty  Oct 06, 2015
8 answers
A
we use ours to record OTA BROADCASTS. IF YOU HAVE INTERNET AVAILABLE, THERE ARE ADDITIONAL CHANNELS,BUT INTERNET IS NOT NECESSARY.
don  Oct 12, 2015
A
You don't need internet for the tuner and recorders to function. But you do need internet for the rolling two-week program guide to function and for the updates to be down-loaded for installation.
jeffrey  Oct 08, 2015
A
Ty - the CM DVR+ is designed for both OTA to receive your local broadcast channels, and it does have ability to be connected to the Internet. I have a wifi booster behind my TV so I can connect to the Internet with a wired connection to it. There are currently four internet access points ...CM, Vudu, Pandora, and You Tube. I have not used these so far. Using the TV Guide menu that allows you to see all programs on every channel is very nice to see what is being broadcasted for the day and one button allows you to select it for recording if you want to watch it later. Norman W
norman  Oct 07, 2015
A
The Channel Master requires software updates from the web a few times a year. On the last update they included some web-based channels to the guide. It can be connected through a router or through an optional wireless usb dongle. It does not need the internet to access the channels, guide or record programs OTA... just for the updates to the DVR software. I don't know how it would work without the updates. I hope this helps!
kathy  Oct 07, 2015
A
No you don't - but I believe the channel guide has more detail if you are connected.
william  Oct 07, 2015
A
No internet is needed for this device. Power and a digital signal is needed. Great tuner on this picks up more stations with a better picture than the tuner on my TV.
gregory  Oct 07, 2015
A
You do not need internet to use the channel master to receive tv channels, but internet access is needed to use the full benefits of the channel master, including programming recording ahead of time and receiving the built in tv guide.
daryl w.  Oct 07, 2015
A
Nope, just connect your coaxial cable-in from your preferably HD antenna to the DVR, and the cable-out to your TV.
leonard  Oct 07, 2015
Q
Does the antenna have to connect to the TV and the DVR separately or is the connection from antenna to DVR to TV?
john  Sep 07, 2015
14 answers
A
No, Ed, much like a cable or satellite input signal, the OTA antenna connects straight to the DVR via coax. The signal is then passed on to the TV (or receiver, if you prefer) via an HDMI cable. It works that same as any other DVR, and does an excellent job I may add. We've had this DVR for almost a year and LOVE it!!!!!!
david  Sep 12, 2015
A
Your antenna should to connect to both the TV and the DVR. If you connect to the DVR and then the TV, you will only be able to watch the TV through the DVR. You will have no independent TV operation. I used a signal splitter on the lead in cable and have satisfactory operation of both units.
edward  Sep 08, 2015
A
Use a 75 ohm spliter from your antenna if you need to in order to run coax to the recorder. The recorder has an HDMI output to go to the TV. I love the thing it has incredible capacity and it is very to use.
james h.  Sep 08, 2015
A
Normally, the antenna coax would connect only to the DVR+. The connection from the DVR+ to the TV is via HDMI. If you wish, you could optionally use a splitter to connect the antenna to both DVR+ and TV. This would allow bypassing the DVR+ all together. It would also allow watching a third channel (live broadcast) while the DVR+ is recording two others. The disadvantage is that your antenna signal strength would be halved going into each device, which may or may not be a problem for you.
tim  Sep 08, 2015
A
Hi Ed, Connect the antenna to the DVR only. Connect the TV to the DVR.
greg  Sep 08, 2015
A
I did not know either, so I did both. I connected a "splitter" to the cable from the antenna. The splitter has two outputs. One output was connected to the "CABLE/ANTENNA" on the TV. The other output was connected to the "RF IN" on the ChannelMaster. Finally, an HDMI cable was used to connect to the TV to the ChannelMaster. I do not know what would happen if the cable from the splitter to the TV were disconnected.
hampton  Sep 08, 2015
A
from antenna to dvr to tv
edmund  Sep 08, 2015
A
I connected my antenna to both the TV and the DVR so that I can watch just the TV -- without the DVR -- or watch TV through the DVR (and of course watch shows recorded on the DVR). So you can set it up either way.
david  Sep 08, 2015
A
The antenna output goes to the DVR. Then the output from the DVR goes to the tv by HDMI cable. So your tv must have at least one HDMI input.
eugene  Sep 08, 2015
A
You will need a RF splitter. The DVR does not have an antenna pass through like the old VCR's. The DVR connects to the TV via HDMI cable.
kerry  Sep 08, 2015
A
The antenna connects to the DVR
steven  Sep 08, 2015
A
Antenna to DVR to TV (using HDMI only)
steve  Sep 08, 2015
A
If you want to watch TV without the recorder on, you will need to connect the TV to an antenna. If you want to record over the air to the recorder, it will need to be connected to an antenna. You can watch TV thru the recorder when the recorder is on. You can use a splitter to connect both to one antenna.
holly  Sep 08, 2015
A
No , the antenna connects to the dvr, then I used an hdmi to connect to the tv
michael  Sep 08, 2015
Q
does it upconvert lower resolution tv programs to 1080p?
cliff  Aug 11, 2015
4 answers
A
I don't know that it "upconverts", however, the HD signals over the air are much better than dish or cable. What you see is what is broadcast. It usually indicates SD, for old movies, gunsmoke, ets. You can't improve on what is being broadcast, but you can get the full HD, which is something you apparently can't get with cable.
christopher  Feb 17, 2016
A
Cliff, I experimented with two different stations (i.e 12.1 and 12.2). Using the "INFO" button on the remote to display the program information the first channel showed HD and the second channel showed SD. Picture quality is still very good on my 6 year old 1080p set. Norman
norman  Aug 13, 2015
A
I don't have a clue
william  Aug 12, 2015
A
Sorry I do not know that answer, but I am very happy with the unit and how it operates. Gary
gary  Aug 12, 2015
Q
does the skip forward equal 30 seconds and the skip back equal 10 seconds?
robert  Jul 05, 2015
4 answers
A
Not sure what the default settings are, but both skip forward and skip back are adjustable. Go to Menu / DVR / DVR Setup / Playback Setup and choose from several options between 10 seconds and 60 seconds for both.
albert  Jul 07, 2015
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Mine Is ten seconds forward and ten seconds back.
earl  Jul 06, 2015
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I never actually timed it but the skip feature works really well, forward and back. We like the unit very much! Gary
gary  Jul 05, 2015
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You can set this under MENU/DVR/DVR Set-Up/Playback Set Up/Options. The options for both forward and back are 10/30/45/60 seconds.
jeffrey  Jul 05, 2015
Q
I have logitech universal remotes 350 & 650. Is CM 7500TB1 compatible with them?
frank  Jun 04, 2015
4 answers
A
Sorry I have noidea.....
james h.  Jun 05, 2015
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Yes. I use a Logitech Harmony 650 and it works fine.
susan  Jun 05, 2015
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it should be.
robert  Jun 05, 2015
A
Not sure about those models but it is compatible with our Logitech Ultimate One. I love this remote!
pat  Jun 05, 2015
Q
When I Compared the CM-7500TB1 and the CM-7500GB16 on another site I recall reading that the TB1 doesn't require an external hard drive for full functionality. However your site's details on the item say "Dual HDTV Tuners: The DVR+ is equipped with two ATSC tuners, which allow you to record two programs at once... Note: To enable simultaneous recording of programs on two different channels, connecting an external USB hard-disk drive is required." Does the model that has a 1TB internal Hard drive really require an external Hard Drive to record 2 programs simultaneously? That seems rather redundant if you have 1TB of storage space...
terry  Jun 01, 2015
12 answers
A
No, an external hard drive is NOT required for full functionality of dual recording on the 1TB hard drive. Works like a champ. The external hard drive just provides additional storage capacity.
david  Jun 07, 2015
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no it doesn't
edmund  Jun 04, 2015
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I have not added an external drive to my TB1 and I am able to record two shows at one time; however, you can't watch another channel other than one of the two being recorded. I had two shows recording and I tried to switch to a totally different channel and a message flashed indicating I needed to stop one of the recordings in order to change channels from the one I was watching and recording.
robin  Jun 03, 2015
A
It does not require an external drive. It can record 2 programs at the same time. If you split your antenna feed and run one lead into the 1TB and another lead directly into your TV, then you will be able to watch a 3rd program while recording the other 2. We cut the cable cord and are saving about $100/month. Just a word of caution though. There are times when our picture digitizes and/or the audio becomes garbled on some recordings. A couple of times we have watched a show live with no problems. But the recorded version of the same show had the issue mentioned above. Weird! We made it through the current season, and on the whole are very pleased with the purchase. Hope this has been some help and good luck.
robert  Jun 03, 2015
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The 1TB records two shows at once. Needs nothing extra.
holly  Jun 03, 2015
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I remember reading that also. I bought the TB1 without the external hard drive and so far it has lived up to my expectations. I can record 2 channels or watch one while I record another.
ralph  Jun 02, 2015
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The CM-7500TB1 will record two different channels simultaneously without an external hard drive. I do it all the time.
edward  Jun 02, 2015
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No. The TB1 model does not need an external drive for recording two programs simultaneously. It is fully functional without.
tim  Jun 02, 2015
A
Thanks for bringing this up. After conferring with our Product Research team, and with Channel Master, we've been able to confirm what the other customers are saying. You can indeed record 2 programs without an external hard drive. The issue seems to be that the 16GB and 1TB versions share an owners manual. This info is in the owners manual, but only applies to the 16GB version. We'll be updating our information and presentation to reflect this.
jeff  Jun 02, 2015 (Staff)
A
It records 2 channels without requiring an external hard drive.
erland  Jun 02, 2015
A
The TB1 does not require an external hard drive to record 2 programs simultaneously (nor to watch one program live and record a second simultaneously). I would chalk up the quote you cite to sloppy editing. I'm pretty sure the GB16 was available first, and the description was probably not updated properly when the TB1 was released.
michael  Jun 02, 2015
A
It has two tuners, so you can watch a program while taping a different one, and if you get the extra external hard drive you can tape two at once.
david  Jun 02, 2015
Q
On our current cable provider DVR, we can watch a previously recorded show while recording two other programs. the channel Master only allows recording 1 program while watching another, or recording two shows (and not watch TV while doing so??). If I hook up this DVR and an antenna via the HDMI port, could I hook up an additional antenna to the reguar Antenna port, and watch a program live (by switching my input) while the DVR records two shows from the other antenna?
terry  May 30, 2015
4 answers
A
I think the HDMI port is only an output port for connecting the DVR to the TV.
norman  Jun 03, 2015
A
Sorry - I have no idea if that will work
william  Jun 01, 2015
A
Yes, you can. Put a splitter on your antenna co-ax cable and run one output to the TV and one to the DVR. Program your shows on the DVR, then switch the TV input to "antenna" to see your live show. Albert.
albert  Jun 01, 2015
A
Yes. I have done this. Actually, I use only one antenna and a cable splitter (one input / two output) to connect the antenna to the TV and to the DVR. The TV tuner and the DVR tuner are separate. You can watch live TV through the TV while recording two programs on the DVR.
jeffrey  Jun 01, 2015
Q
I recently purchased a Roku 3 to supplement my OTA broadcast channels. Can the Channel Master 1TB be connected to the Roku so that it can record programs from streaming services such as Sling TV?
jeffrey  Apr 27, 2015
5 answers
A
I have not tried to hook it up in this manner.
neal  Apr 30, 2015
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Unfortunately there's no way to do that. The DVR+ has a single HDMI connection, which is only an output. It's only possible to record OTA broadcast programming via the coaxial antenna connector and its two internal tuners. It does that flawlessly, however. Channel Master will soon be releasing a new firmware that will allow streaming of much more internet content, such as what the Roku can provide. Keep an eye on Channel Master's Facebook page for more info on that.
tim  Apr 28, 2015
A
I think not. I have both the CM 1TB and Roku 3, and use them in separate rooms. IF they were both connected to one TV the CM 1TB output would be connected to HDMI1 on the TV, and the Roku 3 to HDMI2. The Roku 3 has no antenna output to connect to the CM 1TB input.
eugene  Apr 28, 2015
A
The DVR has one input, a 75 ohm antenna input which goes to an HD tuner. It will only accept a HD TV signal. I do not think the channel master will work for your application.
kerry  Apr 28, 2015
A
I do not know. Our CM and R3 are in different rooms and we haven't tried this connection.
holly  Apr 28, 2015
Q
Is the internal drive easily accessible/serviceable should there be a failure or an opportunity to upgrade storage capacity?
steve  Apr 11, 2015
5 answers
A
Difficult to tell. There is a seal on the bottom that voids warranty if broken. There are screws visible which may hold case together... I personally wouldn't mess with the unit unless it quit working. Sorry I can't give a better answer
christopher  Apr 14, 2015
A
I believe it is accessible. The underside of the unit has a defined panel the dimensions of a laptop hard drive. There are no screws; it appears to be a pry-open design. Needless to say, I haven't tried to open it, but it looks doable. Paul
paul l  Apr 14, 2015
A
Steve, I personally would not know how to service this device, but would call Channel Master to get their advise if something stopped working. It does have auxiliary outputs for additional external hard drive storage so if the internal drive malfunctioned you might still be able to use the external one. I have enjoyed having the ability to record shows and really like having the program guide to see what is being broadcasted each evening. Norman
norman  Apr 13, 2015
A
I had trouble with the first unit purchased. The hard drive failed but Crutchfield replace it with no problem. As to your specific question, I don't know how accessible/serviceable the unit is. I've had mine for 6 months now and I'm very happy with it.
william  Apr 12, 2015
A
I don't know about accessing the internal drive. I have not attempted to open the device. It appears that one could add storage by hooking-up an external drive, but I have not tried that either. The 1 TB internal drive has been sufficient for my needs, so far.
jeffrey  Apr 12, 2015
Q
Can I play my own video or audio thru this device, either over the network or via USB? (The TIVO does it over the network, a Boxee supports both, my mother has the 7500 and I haven't found any way to play media this way)
kevin  Jan 28, 2015
4 answers
A
The current software does not allow that. You can only watch live TV, recorded TV, or the streaming media selections (via the internet) that Channel Master makes available.
tim  Sep 08, 2015
A
I have not tried this so I don't have an answer. Sorry!
daryl w.  Jan 29, 2015
A
I have not tried to play any media via the USB ports in the back of the unit. It would seem, however, that if one can use an external hard drive (connected via USB) that it might/might also play a USB stick.
jeffrey  Jan 29, 2015
A
Kevin - My setup connections are basically the antenna input and the HDMI output to the TV. However, there is an Ethernet port that can be connected to your home network and an optional 'Digital Audio' port described as an Optical connection to a high quality digital sound decoding system. Also, there are two USB 2.0 ports on the back for an external hard drive and an optional wi-fi adapter. I can say the on-screen program guide does show Pandora and You Tube as selections so the Internet connection will at least gain you access to these websites. I am very pleased with the product and enjoy using the on-screen guide for the evening so I can find programs of interest to watch and what to record. I hope this helps with your decision.
norman  Jan 29, 2015
Q
Can programs recorded on the hard disc be copied to a DVD disc?
wendell  Nov 11, 2014
6 answers
A
Not in my experience. Once recorded to the internal hard drive it stays there until deleted. If you plug in an external drive the CM-7500 is supposed to record content there, allowing you to remove the drive and copy it to any computer that is able to read a Unix formatted drive directory, but I have not tried it yet. Once you have your file onto a computer you can convert/edit it and burn it to a DVD with video editing software.
albert  Nov 13, 2014
A
This DVR does not have any controls to allow dubbing its built-in hard drive to a DVD recorder (no RCA ports), but it does have a USB port for connecting an external hard drive for additional storage. Recordings on the external hard drive may possibly be transfered to your computer to create the DVD. Would call them and ask. Do like this product; remote could use some ergonomic improvements.
norman  Nov 12, 2014
A
Not unless you have a dvd recorder that has a HDMI input, thus far I don"t believe they make a recorder with a HDMI inport - I wish they did. However, with the vast amount of storage available on the Hard Disc (which can be doubled with an optional 2nd disc) you can store it for years and get to a particular recording very easily plus the channel Master is so compact & light, you can take it with you on trips or your back yard outings with a TV handy. I have enjoyed mine, particulary the ease in going to the show you wish to see. If I had to rate this.... it would be a 5 star..... it would be a 6 star?? if it had a RCA output! Hope this helps.
ronald  Nov 12, 2014
A
I do not know. We only record T.V. shows. Other than that, it is really a very easy to use and it was extremely easy to hook up. Love it!
wanda  Nov 12, 2014
A
Sorry, but I don't know the answer.
bruce  Nov 12, 2014
A
Not with the machine alone, as it has no DVD drive. I suppose you could connect the output of the Channel Master to a DVD recorder, and then monitor the DVD recorder with the TV, so you could see what you're doing, but I have no idea if that would really work.
david w  Nov 12, 2014
Q
Will this unit work with a Yamaha 2020 AV receiver?
kevin  Oct 06, 2014
1 answer
A
I forwarded your question to an Advisor and they responded with the following: Yes. You can connect the 659CM7500 to the Yamaha 2020 AV receiver with an optical digital cable. If you would like to discuss further you can contact an Advisor directly by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat.
kristina  Oct 07, 2014 (Staff)
Q
Previous recent units of this recorder from CM had lots of complaints about how small the remote was. I have an ailing first generation (new disc to short lived avail) and the remote is large and robust. What about the new CM-7500TB1? Are you comfortable with the remote?
steve  Sep 08, 2014
11 answers
A
I have gotten comfortable with the remote. It is lighter weight than the remote for my old DVR, but physically about the same size ( 8" L x 1 3/4" W x 1/2" D ). Since the new DVR is way better than my old one, I am willing to get used to the new remote. Strange to say, but it might help if the remote were a bit heavier.
mary  Sep 13, 2014
A
The remote is a little on the small side. The guide, info, exit & back buttons are a nice size, as are the channel and volume buttons (I haven't configured the volume buttons yet, for my tv. The remote is 8" X 1 3/4". The buttons that annoy me are the arrangement of the fast forward, reverse, pause and play buttons. It is a small thing, but I am accustomed to the play button being in alignment with the ff & fr...but the pause button is between them, and the play is below. The Player is incredibly small compared to the ones rented from the cable company. I am using this system upstairs in my bedroom where the t.v. is mounted over my sliding doors. I was able to put a very small shelf up/by the t.v to link everything together. The first wifi dongle I got didn't work, but Crutch was good about replacing it. It is vudu ready. I am in "Ozark" OR, on the southern coast. I receive 16 channels in HD, crystal clear. (Some are duplicates...and of course there is the religious channel. Local movie channel. (shows older movies). Station transmitters are 10 or so miles away. I have the CM antenna4228HD & the CM 3414 booster. Overall...very happy with storage capacity...great! and overall quality of reception, recording, and playback.
christopher  Sep 09, 2014
A
The current remote is awfully small. I sometimes have a hard time pressing the correct buttons. It should be made larger.
robert  Sep 09, 2014
A
The remote is 8" by 1.75" and only controls the basic operations of the TV. So I still have to use the TV remote for a few functions. As for the CM DVR - it is easy to use and works well, however as with most new electronics the manual that they provide does not explain everything - you may need to download the complete manual.
william  Sep 09, 2014
A
i found the remote to be of good size not overly big and easy to use. Bill D
bill  Sep 08, 2014
A
Thanks!
steve  Sep 08, 2014
A
Yes, I am comfortable with the remote. It is a little smaller than most, but I have found the keys to be more responsive than most, so I think it is a good balance.
darryl  Sep 08, 2014
A
Thanks. I'm also into the glasses routine to run most remotes except the old very first gen CM DVR. I also hate the trend to button batteries - expensive and I like the heft a passel of AA give a remote. Old school, maybe, but works for me...
steve  Sep 08, 2014
A
The size of the remote seems pretty much the same as other DVRs. The buttons are on the small side, but they are well-spaced and well-marked (I need my glasses these days). The 7500 uses button batteries instead of pen batteries, so it is flatter (thinner), and lighter than previous generation remotes. Like anything else that's new, you quickly adjust and forget about how it is different from what you've used before.
jeffrey  Sep 08, 2014
A
The remote is a little miniaturized, and takes a little getting used to. However I would not say this a deal-breaker for 2 reasons. 1)Like anything else after a little while I got used to handling it routine enough and wouldn't say its so bad. 2) If one is still particular about the size, I did find an alternative in the form of buying a standard sized Logitech Harmony universal remote 650 ($50-$70) and configure it for Channelmaster DVR+ (Use model code CM-7500gb16 if taking this option). Have even been able to automate some routine multi-key tasks like Deleting a recording, finding the signal strength info etc.
arun  Sep 08, 2014
A
The remote is now used for all my TV functions. It is the standard size of most remotes that I have used. Some buttons may be small for the elderly or sight impaired.
gregory  Sep 08, 2014
Q
I have read a review that stated it was difficult to transfer a recording from the DVR's internal drive to a PC. They recommended that you purchase the 16Gb. internal drive and attach an external drive because it was easier to transfer a recording. Does anyone have any experience with this?
tom r  Aug 18, 2014
1 answer
A
We have not received any answers from other customers on your question. I would recommend reaching out to an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They should be able to help answer your question.
jeff  Aug 21, 2014 (Staff)
Q
Can this DVR be used with other streaming internet services such as Apple TV?
bill  Aug 14, 2014
5 answers
A
As of late 2015, with recent software updates there are dozens of website streaming stations. Not top name channels yet, but the capability exists.
christopher  Feb 11, 2016
A
No it will not record streaming channels, only broadcast channels.
ralph  Feb 10, 2016
A
no
james h.  Sep 08, 2015
A
Currently the only streaming service available on the unit is Vudu.
erica  Sep 08, 2014
A
We have not received any answers from other customers on your question. I would recommend reaching out to an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They should be able to help answer your question.
kristina  Aug 18, 2014 (Staff)
Q
When the Channel Master DVR+ plays back recorded OTA HD content, will the playback be in the format that was stored, such as 1080i and Dolby Digital 5.1, and will this be provided via both the HDMI and optical audio outputs?
kevin h  Aug 10, 2014
1 answer
A
I forwarded your question to an Advisor and they responded with the following: The Channel Master will record the physical format that you send it, so if you send 1080i video and 5.1 Dolby Digital it will record and play back in these formats, no matter the input. If you would like to discuss further you can contact an Advisor directly by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat.
kristina  Aug 12, 2014 (Staff)
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