Sky Q, a popular TV device in the UK, has been entertaining households for over a decade with its recording capabilities. Despite its enduring appeal, it now faces competition from Manhattan’s latest offering, the S4-R Freesat 4K TV Recorder.
Similar to Sky Q, the Manhattan S4-R utilizes a dish to deliver TV shows and movies to homes, featuring internal storage for recordings, an interactive TV guide, and the ability to pause live TV. What sets it apart is the absence of subscription fees, providing access to over 100 free TV and radio channels, albeit without premium offerings like Sky Sports or Sky Cinema.
The S4-R can record multiple channels simultaneously, comes with a 500GB hard drive for storing approximately 300 hours of content, and will soon offer larger 1TB and 2TB versions. It offers familiar live TV controls, enabling users to pause and rewind broadcasts.
With a user-friendly interface, search functionality, and access to on-demand content through various apps like BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, and My5, Manhattan aims to provide a seamless viewing experience. Alex Arbab-Zadeh, Manhattan’s COO, highlighted the enhanced recording capabilities of the S4-R, allowing up to four programs to be recorded simultaneously.
Positioned as a cost-effective alternative to subscription TV, the S4-R promises flexibility, choice, and freedom from monthly bills. Priced starting at £219.99 for the 500GB model, rising to £249.99 for the 1TB version in May, and £279.99 for the 2TB model in June, the Manhattan S4-R will be available at retailers like Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Richer Sounds starting this month.