Hauppauge HD PVR2 Gaming Edition Plus Review

1. Introduction2. Bundle & Packaging3. Software & Operation4. Footage & Performance5. Closing Thoughts6. View All Pages

The Hauppauge HD PVR2 Gaming Edition Plus is definitely a capable capture device. Even between different formats the quality of recordings is excellent and we did not experience any issues during the set-up process.

Bundling the HD PVR2 Gaming Edition Plus with editing and streaming software is a smart move and ArcSoft's easy to use suite will help newcomers come to terms with recording, streaming and editing.

At the same time, more experienced users can still use their preferred software suites as the HD PVR2 Gaming Edition Plus does not record in a proprietary format.

The unit itself is well built and the Stop/Start button feels firm but does not require excessive force to press and its rubber surface and size help to make sure it is hard to miss.

We would have no issue awarding the HD PVR2 Gaming Edition Plus our Must Have Award if the option to record directly onto an external hard drive had been included.. Here at KitGuru we are used to having wires and hardware draped over every possible surface but we imagine most users will want to keep their work areas nice and tidy.

Having to keep the console, TV and PC all in relatively close distance to each other can prove challenging to some, especially those whose consoles or PC's sit in shared living areas.

We also feel the inclusion of a remote would add to the premium feel of the package and make it more convenient to use. Recording short pieces of gameplay without a remote means either interrupting the recording regularly, by getting up and walking over to the console and back, or spending considerable time cutting up recorded footage.

Available for £141.97 inc. vat, the Hauppauge HD PVR2 Gaming Edition Plus is amongst the more expensive capture devices. However, if you have the space and want to get serious about starting a gaming channel or streaming channel we feel it is a solid investment.

Pros:

• Easy to use bundled software.
• Simple, sleek design.
• Excellent recording quality.

Cons:

• No option to record onto an external storage device.
• Difficult to avoid clutter when stacking a console, TV, PC, the capture device and the cables for each device.
• Remote would make an excellent addition.

KitGuru says: a more than capable capture device with a considerable price tag that deserves consideration if you want to get serious about sharing your gameplay.

Become a Patron!