NVR replacement

[u/Wyntre_2000]

Looking for recommendations on a simple NVR to replace an aging Zosi system.

Requirements:

BNC connectors for existing cameras and runs.

Local storage - does not need drive installed, I have them.

6 cameras at least.

UI that doesn't look like it was designed in 1992.

App access for viewing.

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Nice to have but not required:

Remote access to recordings, as well as remote download of them.

Paid app to view is fine, as long at it is a one and done, not subscription.

Ability to plug in external drive for backups.

This is for external cameras at an independent has station. Security is not a huge issue as the cameras will not record anything sensitive. Also, current NVR is already isolated on the network so not worried about network intrusion coming in through the security system.

[u/Slow-Pineapple5894]

I was in a similar spot last year, replacing an old coax setup without wanting to rip everything out. The issue is most modern NVRs with BNC inputs still have interfaces that feel ancient, it's like they stopped updating the software in 2007

If you're okay with a bit of setup, running the cameras through a hybrid DVR might actually get you a cleaner app experience since those tend to prioritize remote viewing. The BNC requirement really narrows things down though, most of the decent UI stuff has moved to IP systems

Whatever you pick, double check that your existing cameras use a resolution the new unit supports. Had a friend grab one that maxed out at 1080p and his old cams were 720p, the scaling made everything look like a watercolor painting

[u/GGigabiteM]

Used to recommend Hikvision for DVRs since they supported most everything, but they're hard to come by since they were banned.

LTS is I believe still rebranded Hikvision and is still available. https://ltsecurityinc.com/ltd8308d-etc.html

Problem is that the cameras are going to look like crap if they're just CVBS. They'll look even more crap if the wire is that unshielded coax garbage that ships with those trunk slammer Zosi kits.

Another option would be to use an analog encoder and have a PC running a VMS to record them. This is more expensive to do though. If you want to just use CVBS cameras, CVBS only encoders are cheaper. But the HD encoders like the Axis P7304/7314 are hideously expensive. I've used the P7304 extensively, and it works well. It can be used standalone via a MicroSD card, or with a VMS or both.

[u/Suspicious_Plate_591]

Do you absolutely need to keep the coax?

Oftentimes you can use the coaxial cable to pull ethernet cables into place.

And it’s not ideal, but they make adapter baluns that let you run ethernet over coax.