TiVo TCD658000 HD XL Digital Video Recorder Review

My cable company support for their Moxi DVR was declining, so I begin to look for other options, including satellite. The TiVo features stood out...especially the features of connection to my home commuter network, providing TiVo's own version of Video on Demand via Amazon.com, Netflix, and other websites. In addition, the ability to transfer recorded video within that network provided a recording backup capability only dreamed about by cable DVR users. Also, when I uncovered all the hidden cost of renting Charter's DVR (it turned out to be $20/month) and did the math, I realized that TiVo was actually cheaper to own in the long-run, and had many more features...especially cheaper if I cancelled some of my premium channels and replaced them with a subscription to Netflix.

But I had a series of problems: After purchasing the TiVo HD XL from Amazon.com, it arrived defective...it would constantly reboot itself. But rather than contact Amazon, I contacted TiVo's customer service. After a short series of test with me on the phone, TiVo agreed the DVR was defective, and quickly shipped another, also paying the postage to return the one purchased from Amazon. However, the 2nd TiVo also arrived with a version of the same defect, and again this was quickly exchanged. Finally, the 3d TiVo arrived, and worked perfectly. I was so impressed with it's capabilities, and TiVo's customer service, that I decided to also purchase the TiVo HD model for my wife to use as her own, knowing we could transfer recording between the two DVRs. This would also provide her with an incentive to learn to use the DVR, and not depend on me to record her favorite programs.

But again, I had the same problem with this model ...but also again, TiVo customer service was outstanding, this time agreeing to lengthen my guarantee period if I would accept another replacement, rather than a refund. I have now had both TiVos for 6 months, and they continue to work perfectly. Having the two TiVos also resulted in more user friendly setup for my wife, which she now takes full advantage of it, including the recording capabilities of TiVo. In addition, with TiVo's relationship with Netflix, we are now watching much more recent movie releases...some on DVDs, and others via instant downloads onto the Tivo.

I have read that a constant rebooting of a TiVo is an indication of a hard drive failure, and the only thing that now makes sense to me is that the defective TiVos I received might have experienced some rough handling in their UPS route to my home. However, I am very glad that I was patient with TiVo's customer service, because they were very patient with me, and the TiVo HD XL and HD models are well worth it.

Buy it here now!