DVB-S vs DVB-S2 — What’s the Difference?
DVB-S (Digital Video Broadcasting — Satellite) is the original digital satellite TV standard, introduced in 1995. DVB-S2 is its successor, ratified in 2005, offering significantly better performance.
| Feature | DVB-S | DVB-S2 |
|---|---|---|
| Year | 1995 | 2005 |
| Modulation | QPSK only | QPSK, 8PSK, 16APSK, 32APSK |
| Efficiency | ~2.5 bits/Hz | ~4.5 bits/Hz |
| FEC | Viterbi + Reed-Solomon | LDPC + BCH |
| Capacity Gain | Baseline | 30-40% more channels per transponder |
What This Means for You
If You Have an Old Receiver (DVB-S only)
You can still watch channels broadcast in DVB-S format. However, many broadcasters are migrating to DVB-S2 to fit more channels. If a channel switches from DVB-S to DVB-S2, your old receiver won’t be able to decode it.
If You Have a Modern Receiver (DVB-S2)
You can receive both DVB-S and DVB-S2 channels. All receivers sold since ~2010 support DVB-S2. If yours doesn’t, it’s time to upgrade.
How to Check
On our satellite pages, each transponder shows its system type — either DVB-S or DVB-S2. If many channels you watch are on DVB-S2 transponders, make sure your receiver supports it.
DVB-S2X — The Next Generation
DVB-S2X (2014) extends DVB-S2 with even more efficient modulation schemes. It’s used mainly for professional broadcasting and IP data. Consumer receivers with DVB-S2X support are available but not yet widely needed for standard TV viewing.
Practical Advice
- Buy a DVB-S2 receiver — they’re the same price as DVB-S-only receivers now
- Check the transponder system on TARDOD before tuning — if it says DVB-S2, you need a compatible receiver
- 8PSK modulation (common on DVB-S2) requires slightly stronger signal than QPSK — if you’re at the edge of coverage, this matters for dish sizing