I loved my TiVo from the moment I installed it (which takes a little while, but then it's over).  However, I have had three units fail because of the extensively discussed TiVo modem issue.  If you have not had a hardware problem yet, then you are fortunate.
Please don't take my word for it--evaluate the hardware issues for yourself by browsing the excellent TiVo forum ... prior to purchasing a unit, for very helpful advice.  Read the FAQs and try searching for "dead modem."
Apparently the modem is highly sensitive to any power fluctuation in the telephone line, and is very easily burned out.  Because the modem is built as part of the TiVo chip, it cannot simply be replaced with a better modem.
If you decide to purchase a TiVo unit, be sure to buy from a reliable merchant (reports about Amazon are good) and also purchase an iron-clad extended warranty.  Otherwise, after 90 days, all Phillips TiVo repairs are $99.
Sorry to be so negative about the hardware, but I will repeat that the TiVo service itself is terrific!
I loved my TiVo from the moment I installed it (which takes a little while, but then it's over). However, I have had three units fail because of the extensively discussed TiVo modem issue. If you have not had a hardware problem yet, then you are fortunate. Please don't take my word for it--evaluate the hardware issues for yourself by browsing the excellent TiVo forum... prior to purchasing a unit, for very helpful advice. Read the FAQs and try searching for "dead modem. "
Apparently the modem is highly sensitive to any power fluctuation in the telephone line, and is very easily burned out. Because the modem is built as part of the TiVo chip, it cannot simply be replaced with a better modem. If you decide to purchase a TiVo unit, be sure to buy from a reliable merchant (reports about Amazon are good) and also purchase an iron-clad extended warranty. Otherwise, after 90 days, all Phillips TiVo repairs are $99. Sorry to be so negative about the hardware, but I will repeat that the TiVo service itself is terrific!