Sky Q has long been a popular TV device in the UK, offering the ability to record content onto its internal hard drive. However, a new competitor has emerged in the form of Manhattan’s S4-R Freesat 4K TV Recorder. This device operates similarly to Sky Q, using a dish for content delivery and providing storage for recordings. It offers a user-friendly interface, a full interactive TV guide, and the ability to pause live TV.
One major advantage of the Manhattan S4-R is that it comes with no subscription fees after purchase, offering over 100 TV and radio channels for free viewing. While it lacks access to premium content like Sky Sports and Sky Cinema, it presents a cost-effective option for entertainment without additional bills.
Similar to Sky Q, the S4-R allows for recording multiple channels simultaneously and comes with a 500GB hard drive, expandable to 1TB and 2TB capacities. Users can enjoy features such as pausing and rewinding live broadcasts, as well as access to a wide range of on-demand content through various apps like BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, and My5.
Manhattan’s COO, Alex Arbab-Zadeh, highlighted the enhanced recording capabilities of the S4-R, allowing up to four simultaneous recordings. He emphasized that the device offers a compelling alternative to subscription TV, providing flexibility, choice, and cost savings.
The Manhattan S4-R is set to launch this month and will be sold at retailers including Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Richer Sounds. Prices will start at £219.99 for the 500GB model, with the 1TB version priced at £249.99 in May, and the 2TB model at £279.99 in June.