Strengths:Can finally playback HD programming, records HD from a variety of sources, dual tuner, same awesome interface that keeps TiVo lovers coming back for more!
Weaknesses:Much slower than previous versions I've owned, only one set of outputs, still bugs with multi-room viewing.
Posted Dec 3, 2007 - This is my third TiVo box, and I've been a loyal user for about 5 years now. I've always loved the ease of use as well as the intuitive interface and features of TiVo. I firmly believe that anyone who uses TiVo will never go back--either to VCR or to cable company DVR's...they're simply inadequate. Anyway, regarding the TiVo HD, I've been wanting to record in HD for a long time now, as the majority of programming I watch is available in the format, but I never felt that I could afford the previous "Series 3" boxes which are more expensive and require a new activation for rebates. As such, I waited for the right time to buy this "lite," less expensive HD model, which doesn't have the hassle of rebates. This way, I could simply transfer service over to it from one of my old boxes--I'm glad I did!!!
As I noted above, this box can record HD from a variety of sources--OTA antenna, straight from the wall after a channel scan (if your cable company transmits local channels in this manner--eg, 9-1, 9-2), and also on a digital "tier" with Cablecards. The picture is awesome, and I'm only using the included Component cables. Set-up (sans cablecards) is quick and straightforward, as it is with all TiVo's. The dual tuner is awesome too--I've had a Series 2 Dual Tuner box for a year now, and couldn't live without the ability to record two shows at once.
As for drawbacks, there are a few. The box is noticeably slower than previous ones I've owned--even after updating it. This means that getting to and from menus take a little longer--roughly a second or two--and switching from menu-view to live TV (or tuning channels) takes a second as well. This was disappointing, but I can live with it. I was also disappointed in the fact that this box only has one set of outputs, unless one wishes to use the optical audio output--which I do not. As such, you can really only hook your box into one component--or straight into your TV--if you're going to use the A/V audio outputs, which the majority of people do. I'm probably going to buy some piggyback cables. This is a drawback for people such as myself who have had previous boxes hooked both straight into my set, as well as into my DVD recorder for transferring programs to DVD. One final drawback is the Cablecard feature. I haven't had mine installed yet (that happens tonight), but I've read horror stories in various places about the process. I wish TiVo would've given us the OPTION of using Cablecards or a set-top-box, as in the future. I don't see why it would've been so hard to both build in CableCard capability as well as a set of HD inputs and an IR blaster to control a STB. Given the choice, I would've opted for the STB, as I'd rather not fiddle around with cable company install of these very unreliable CableCards...oh well...only time will tell.
All in all, Tivo HD is an awesome product that should serve me well!
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Rated 
TiVo HD intuitive
Comment about this review
Works but kinda slow
