Before I buy a PlexPass, Im curious on how EXACTLY the LiveTV function works, especially with local channels (CBS, ABC, Fox, etc). This would be the only reason why I would get PlexPass and I want to make sure I am able to use it.
What additional equipment would I need if any? Do I need an antenna, TV tuner or does it just stream through the Internet? If it requires a TV Tuner, would it work because
If it requires a TV Tuner, would it work because my current problem is that my antenna doesn’t work for all local stations as I live in a valley and the mountains block some of the signals?
Plex’s Live TV & DVR feature requires the use of a tuner; this tuner can be network-based, such as SiliconDust’s HDHomeRun products, or physically connected to the server. There are also software-based tuners which emulate network tuners. A list of supported tuners can be found here:
If you don’t have good OTA reception in your area, Plex’s Live TV & DVR feature in and of itself is not going to improve it. It is completely dependent upon the stream provided by the tuner.
Here’s link to some information about Plex Live TV & DVR; there’s an FAQ there which might be helpful:
[Edited to add]
Plex also has a Live TV service, but it’s completely separate from the Live TV & DVR feature. The Live TV service doesn’t provide local channels. You can find more information about it here:
I was in the same boat, can’t get OTA TV due to a hill blocking the signal. I ended up getting a cable card tuner with basic cable to get my locals. The cable card runs through some software that emulates a HDHomeRun tuner that Plex connects to. This allows me to watch and record live TV using Plex.
If you were planning on buying a Plex Pass for Live TV/DVR, then my advice based on the last three years would be RUN … RUN FAST … RUN FAR. The are so many alternatives that will work better, some of which are free. Fixing the many problems in the most basic of functionality just does not appear to be a priority for Plex.
