Wash Post says Don't buy Directv HD Tivo

Archived from groups: alt.video.ptv.tivo (More info?)

All you DTV rumpswabs can direct your complaints to the Washington
Post.

Should I get DirecTV's high-definition TiVo to go with my new HDTV?

Maybe not just yet. That $999, TiVo-based "DirecTV HD DVR" won't be
able to tune in the high-definition network broadcasts DirecTV plans
to offer by the end of this year. The company will transmit those
sharper versions of ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and their ilk in a more
efficient video format that, in turn, will require new receivers.

DirecTV spokeswoman Jade Ekstedt said in an e-mail that owners of
older hardware will still be able to watch the service's current HD
lineup, which includes high-def versions of ESPN, HBO, Showtime and
other non-network channels, plus the standard-definition network fare
it offers now. She added that those owners will get "an offer" to
upgrade to the new service but didn't say what it might be.

If you can get local stations' digital broadcasts over the air (a good
electronics store can help answer that question), the upcoming DirecTV
service may not be necessary -- the HD DVR includes a digital tuner to
pull in local signals. Otherwise, you'll need the new hardware. And
buying that TiVo now means gambling that DirecTV's upgrade offer will
meet your approval later. With $999 at stake, I'd want clearer
guidance from DirecTV first.