Gadgetell Quick Review & Peep Show: TiVo HD DVR

The Tivo HD takes most of the Series3 features but packs them in a lower priced model. The HD has the ability to record up to two HD programs while watching a third, via CableCards, cable, or over the air signals. It can record a maximum of 20 hours of HD or 180 hours of standard definition with the built in hard drive, though you can bump up the storage with additional/external hard drives. The HD also skips commercials :30 seconds at a time (an intuitive feature that other manufacturers should roll out). Unlike most other DVRs the TiVo connects to the internet via ethernet or WiFi (with an adapter) to access Amazon Unbox movies, TiVoCast videos, Rhapsody subscription music, online scheduling, photo and music streaming and firmware upgrades — with additions such as TiVo To Go and Multi-Room viewing.

Unlike those free DVRs that you can get from your cable company for $15.99 per month, TiVo hits you with the double whammy — pay for the machine as well as a monthly subscription for the TiVo service and one-time fees for some of the extras. You also can’t access your video-on-demand via the TiVo and you loose picture-in-picture (even with 3 tuners).

There will be those of you who will love your TiVo and others who rather pay less and get less. If you are opting to purchase a DVR we strongly recommend the HD over other models currently on the market, especially given the price savings over the Series3.