I have 2 big issues with TIVO and any closed box system. 1) its a single function box. If you want to play a divx file from a computer in the house, play a DVD, slide show photos, play mp3's you need something extra. I like that my media PC can do it all. 2) saving older recording and keeping HD quality. I have not seen an efficient way to do this.

I've checked out MCE with the copy of vista I have and did not like it. From what I've seen the W7 MCE is better but W7/a Ceton card will cost me more then 2 HD-PVR's that I can use in my existing SageTV system.

ATSC looks good but its locals only so thats a limitation. Clear QAM looks good but its a crap shoot as to what your Cable CO will provide and they don't support it. I can't speak for all cable Co DVR's but the SA 8300 from WOW has a UI that belings int eh 80's with DOS. While it works it is a step down from the PC SageTV interface I had gotten used to. I will be dumping it after the 1st of the year getting two Hauppague HD-PVR's and 2 Basic HD receivers.

I have two PC based DVR's in the house. I've used several peices of software over the years and Sage TV has been the best. The UI is IMO much easier to use that Win MCE. It has the basic functions(record, play, ff/rw TV) as well as DVD playback, audio, pictures and other Video files. Its audio and video playback is limited to the codecs you have loaded. Native it will search and stream youtube videos. Their are several user created addons to enhance the look and feel as well as functions. Their is a new addon that connects to the playon software that will give you netflix and hulu streams from within sage. The software can be setup in client/server mode so that all of your cable box's and other hardware can be in another room and you just have either a PC or their media extender in the living room. It works well with Hauppague's HD-PVR for HD recording from a cable box via the analog HD component out. www.sagetv.com be sure to check their forums.

Your analogy if flawed.

In the situation you have described you have noticed the error prior to the signing of the slip and the charge of the card. This is not what happened.

A correct analogy would be you got your check and paid the amount on the check and left. Then several days later the restaurant notices that the server missed an item and adds the charge to your account. If any restaurant I went to ever did that I'd dispute the charge, never return and depending on the amount call the police. When check out is complete the transaction is done. It is the responsibility of the vendor to ensure they are charging the correct amount.