If I could only have one modern convenience, it would be my DVR.
I would give up my cell phone, my wireless modem, even my laptop for my DVR. Well, maybe not my laptop, but you get the idea. I really, really love my DVR.
Clearly, I'm not alone. A story in Saturday's print edition of The Monroe Times examines how networks are adopting to the immense popularity of DVRs.
Why are the devices changing our viewing habits? Some of us wouldnt be able to watch TV without it between work, the kids and household chores, its rare I can sit down and enjoy a TV show before 10 p.m. With my DVR, I can zip through an hour show in about 40 minutes (skipping all the commercials) when it fits in my schedule not the networks.
VCRs never did it for me. Too many times I forgot to set it, too many times it malfunctioned. With the DVR, I set my favorite shows to record and theyre there.
But Im finding there is a drawback to never watching live TV: I feel a little sheltered. My TV watching is all business now just whats been recorded. I no longer channel surf and I rarely see a commercial. Its like Im living in my own little cocoon; sometimes it feels like a rut. Ive missed out on new shows because I didnt even know they were on. Thats what happens when you dont have to watch the promos and commercials.
And because so many of us are skipping the commercials, we're subject to a whole new genre of advertisement product placement. The whole trend is a little unnerving. Give me a straightforward, 30-second spot any day. At least it's clear it's an ad.
What about you, readers? Are you a DVR addict like me? Or do you still watch live TV?
I would give up my cell phone, my wireless modem, even my laptop for my DVR. Well, maybe not my laptop, but you get the idea. I really, really love my DVR.
Clearly, I'm not alone. A story in Saturday's print edition of The Monroe Times examines how networks are adopting to the immense popularity of DVRs.
Why are the devices changing our viewing habits? Some of us wouldnt be able to watch TV without it between work, the kids and household chores, its rare I can sit down and enjoy a TV show before 10 p.m. With my DVR, I can zip through an hour show in about 40 minutes (skipping all the commercials) when it fits in my schedule not the networks.
VCRs never did it for me. Too many times I forgot to set it, too many times it malfunctioned. With the DVR, I set my favorite shows to record and theyre there.
But Im finding there is a drawback to never watching live TV: I feel a little sheltered. My TV watching is all business now just whats been recorded. I no longer channel surf and I rarely see a commercial. Its like Im living in my own little cocoon; sometimes it feels like a rut. Ive missed out on new shows because I didnt even know they were on. Thats what happens when you dont have to watch the promos and commercials.
And because so many of us are skipping the commercials, we're subject to a whole new genre of advertisement product placement. The whole trend is a little unnerving. Give me a straightforward, 30-second spot any day. At least it's clear it's an ad.
What about you, readers? Are you a DVR addict like me? Or do you still watch live TV?
