I have a dreambox DB7025 and like it very much. The main reason is the open source OS and the DVR functionality. Granted, this open-ness in nature brings various people and thoughts into the picture, but then its up to the individuals what to do and which principles to follow. Dream Multimedia has a strict policy against unauthorized usage of the box/services and their SW is for pure FTA usage. But, the box and the SW has support for reading subscrption cards that lets you purchase subscription programing as well. I wish this model was available here too (it is mostly for the European market).I am mostly on IA5, AMC3 and a few other sats, so there is no shortage of FTA here.

• Dreambox Tv

Dreambox Tv

I am sure you can get these sats up there in Canada as well. You may need a bigger dish though, but I defer that to the old timers here to comment.So, if you are comfortable with Linux, then go for it.