Will the S3 record 2 OTA HD shows simultaneously?

[gwsat]

Based upon what I have from reading about the S3 both here and on the TiVo Web site, I understand that the S3 will record two HD cable shows simultaneously if it is equipped with two CableCARDs. But will it record two OTA HD shows simultaneously if it hasn’t been equipped with CableCARDs? I can’t see how CableCARDs should fit into the OTA equation but something I read left me wondering about it.

Here’s why I ask. I currently have an SA 8300HD DVR that I rent from Cox OKC. I intend to keep it for the time being, even if I decide to buy an S3. My plan is to use the S3 to record OTA stuff and continue to use the 8300HD for everything else. But if the S3 has only one ATSC tuner, that could be a deal breaker unless there is a way to integrate my HDTV’s OTA tuner with the S3. Any help would be appreciated.

The only reason I am considering the S3 now is that I could transfer my Lifetime Service subscription from my circa 2000 S1 to an S3 for $200.

[andyf]

No problem. 2 OTA shows simultaneously, 2 NTSC analog cable shows simultaneously, all without cablecards.

[greg_burns]

From megazone's review (http://www.tivolovers.com/Series3-Review.html) :

There is another 'gotcha' which may catch users unaware. You really need to use no CableCARDs or two (or a single Multi-Stream card). Why? Because the S3 cannot operate in an asymmetric mode, like the S2DT. If you insert only one (single-stream) CableCARD, then the entire unit reverts to single tuner operation. That means you lose the dual-tuner capabilities for antenna and analog cable, not just digital cable. With no CableCARDs installed you have dual-tuner operation for antenna and analog cable, two CableCARDs gives you dual-tuner digital cable. I was surprised by this, having used the S2DT I really expected the unit to operated in the same way. I don't think this is a huge issue, most users are going to have none or two, but it may surprise some. I asked TiVo about this and they said that they are investigating asymmetric configurations as a possible future addition.

Either no Cable Cards, or two (or one mutli-stream) CC for dual-tuner OTA.

[classicsat]

The S3 has two identical ATSC/NTSC/Analog/Digital tuners, both will record all the same things as the other, except when only one sigle stream cablecard is installed, where only one tuer block can be ustilised, the second disabled.

[gwsat]

Thanks to all for your VERY informative responses. Armed with your reports, I am very close to pulling the trigger and ordering an S3. I have been waiting for an HD TiVo ever since I bought my first HDTV, three years ago.