I use get_iplayer for TV because the BBC iPlayer does not allow downloads on Linux (unless it's changed again) and even when it did I couldn't easily play them on my TV. Hence my USB stick method. Another advantage of get_iplayer is that it does not enforce the time limit - which is normally a month (although it does encourage you to delete time-expired programmes). So you can watch when you have time - in the winter - or keep stuff for ever.

BTW iPlayer allows you 5 months to watch the Ring, as I posted here. And I have watched The Rheingold twice - though none of the others yet. The Giants are particularly good - they act and are dressed as a couple of East End thugs. (Is he talking to me, Ron?) [Non-UK or younger readers readers: East End of London, Kray Twins]