Whether one is a frequent or occasional TV viewer, the act of recording shows, movies and/or series, can be either a wonderful extension of enjoyment or a source of tremendous stress. Choosing the provider and system that properly fits one’s needs is one way to insure the former rather than the latter.

All major TV viewing service providers offer such a system in the form of a DVR (Digital Video Recorder), as an optional upgrade. Frequently this upgrade is included in promo packages either totally free or for a minimal additional fee. In either case, it can add a new dimension to viewing pleasure. Having the ability to watch recorded fare at one’s leisure, at a comfortable pace, with those of your choice and, if you choose, with limited commercial interruption, presents a wonderful alternative to “regularly scheduled” offerings.

In Southern California, DirectTV, Time Warner Cable and Dish Network are the three major TV service providers and all tout their DVR’s as being superior. There are so many variables that one would have to be something of an expert to understand them all. However, by reading the descriptions of all of them and then deciding on the intended usage of the DVR, it becomes easier to select the one which best meets the intended needs. Below you can find some helpful links to more information:

- Direct TV with directsattv.com

- Cable TV with comcast.com

- Handy TV Service Guide

The DVR is only one of the many deciding factors in the choice of the TV service provider. While the features of the DVR may be the paramount reason for the choice, the others, such as price, reliability, channel selection, etc., will probably take precedence. If that becomes the case, since each provider only offers one DVR choice, the comparison is more for information than for choice.

In the end, whether or not to add a DVR will probably be the one ultimate choice. The enjoyment, flexibility and value derived from the addition of any DVR, makes this decision relatively easy and highly recommended.

Major companies like Nike, Adidas and Sony Electronics are purring in millions of dollars in World Cup Soccer advertising. Nike is the official sponsor of World Cup and is providing most the shoes to the players. One of their ads has been getting a buzz even before World Cup started and can be viewed below. The ad features many famous soccer players such as Wayne Rooney of England and Christian Ronaldo of Portugal. It even features Kobe Bryant.

Adidas provided the soccer ball, which has been very controversial so far. The ball is supposed to be the latest in ball technology and is made of one piece.  It is said to be 5% faster. Players have complained that the ball acts weird or is too slippery. Several goalies also blamed the ball for their loss.

Sony Electronics has been displaying banners around the court, which can be predominately viewed when watching the games.

It has been said that 3 seconds of World Cup advertising on TV costs around $250,000.

A survey of the Social Media sites by Melwater Buzz, showed that the users are getting involved with the major advertiser brands. The most conversation in May 24th to June 20th were as follows: Nike 27%,  Adidas 23%, Sony 11%, Coca-Cola 9% and Hyundai and Kia at 7%.

Guest blogger Rick Meriss wrote this.

Spring might mean the start of the baseball season to some people, but in my house it’s the kick off to the Major League Soccer season. Nothing makes me more excited than turning on Direct tv and seeing that the Columbus Crew are back for another dominating season. With so many of the players returning from last year’s second straight Supporters Shield winning team, it seems like it will be impossible to stop us this season!

Guillermo Barros Schelotto’s return has been secured as the Crew’s first ever designated player and continues to help the team produce. Sure David Beckham sells more tickets and Cuauhtémoc Blanco might be a little more well known, but neither one of them have affected the landscape of the MLS as much as Schelotto. With him helping lead a team full of potential US National team players, the club can only go up.

Speaking of international play, the competition for the World Cup will be starting soon. Needless to say soccer fever will fully consume my house by the time America takes the pitch against England! It’s going to be a great year for watching soccer.