The most BASIC DirecTV DVR questions

[Dud]

I have searched and found little of the most basic info on the subject. I have not yet purchased equipment or subscribed but would like to with knowledge.

I am thinking about getting a new/used DVR off Ebay and just calling and subscribing, but there are so many questions. I called DirecTV and was told that I would need a second coax installation and the phone line would need to be hooked up all the time (yeah right). With only one (1) coax I can only record what I am watching, right? My most important requirement is to network the DVR and archive recorded video to DVD via my PC. There are some other things I could use some advice on:

1 - What make/model of series 1/2 DirecTV DVRs does the group recommend for modding? With my luck I would order a DTV DVR and get an R10. In that case I would have to purchase a moddable unit to meet my req. That brings up question 2:

2 - If I already have a DTV DVR can I just replace the unit (say the R10) with a modded one and exchange the cards to get it to work?

I think I might pay DTV the cost of the DVR ($50) plus shipping ($15) and get a free install. I do have to commit to a year contract (a whole $60). IF I get an R10 (they cannot guarantee which unit I would get) I would buy/mod a series II unit (for about $80), mod it and replace the R10 (and prob sell it).

What do you think?

[eastwind]

Check a local retailer. You'll know what you're getting that way, and should be able to get the same deal and installation package. If you only have one coax line you'll be able to record only on one tuner (the other wont have a feed), but you can watch anything from Now Playing (previous recordings) that you want at the same time. As for changing the access card, I think if you replace the unit and keep the commitment, you'll be able to tell them the other receiver (the one you don't want) quit working and you want to activate the new one (the hackable one) with the same access card.

ew