This article covers アースソフト PT2.

Overview

The Earthsoft PT2 is a PCI-based digital TV tuner card designed for Japanese broadcasting standards. It features two independent tuners, allowing simultaneous recording of two channels or watching one while recording another. It supports terrestrial digital (ISDB-T), BS digital (ISDB-S), and 110-degree CS digital, making it a versatile all-in-one solution for Japanese TV enthusiasts. Although released over a decade ago, the PT2 remains a beloved choice among enthusiast builders who still use older motherboards with PCI slots. Its dual-tuner capability and broad compatibility with third-party software give it longevity far beyond its official support period.

Connectivity & Compatibility

The PT2 uses a standard PCI interface, so it requires a Classic PCI slot (not PCIe). Most modern motherboards have eliminated PCI slots, so compatibility is limited to older systems (e.g., Intel 6-series or AMD 9xx chipset boards or earlier). The card has two F-type antenna connectors: one for terrestrial (UHF) and one for BS/CS (satellite). Supported broadcast standards are Japanese ISDB-T, ISDB-S, and ISDB-C (110°CS). Officially, the bundled drivers support Windows XP, Vista, and 7. However, community-developed drivers (e.g., BonDriver, EDCB, TVTest) have extended compatibility to Windows 10 and 11, though some manual configuration is required.

Product Info

The Earthsoft PT2 was first released around 2009 and is now discontinued. New units are nearly impossible to find, but used units are available on Japan and auction sites, typically priced between ¥30,000 and ¥40,000 JPY. There is no manufacturer warranty on used units. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range product in its prime, the PT2 offered dual tuners at a reasonable price. Today, it is a niche product for retro PC builders or those who want to repurpose older hardware as a dedicated TV recording system. Compared to modern USB tuners or PCIe capture cards, the PT2 lacks 4K support and official driver updates, but for standard-definition and 1080i recording, it remains highly capable.

Best Use Cases

Reviving an old desktop PC: If you have a PC with a free PCI slot (e.g., a Core 2 Duo or first-gen Core i5 system), the PT2 can transform it into a dedicated TV recorder. It works well with lightweight recording software like EDCB or TVTest. Dual-tuner recording on a budget: For users who want to record two terrestrial channels simultaneously or record one channel while watching another, the PT2 delivers this functionality without the cost of a modern high-end capture card. All-in-one broadcasting reception: Instead of using separate cards for terrestrial and satellite, the PT2 handles both with one card, saving space and reducing power consumption. Not recommended for: Users with PCIe-only systems, those needing official Windows 10/11 support, or anyone wanting to record 4K content. Also, if you are not comfortable with manual driver installation and community software, a newer USB or PCIe tuner would be a better choice.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: アースソフト
  • ASIN: B002WLP190
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.