Should I purchase a series 3?

[stedmakr]

I've had our Tivo 2 for three years and my wife and I love the flexibility that it gives us. I also use TIVO to Go, TivoCast and we play our music through the TIVO. We love TIVO!!!

I have actually delayed our transition to a big screen TV and HD because of TIVO. I was disappointed when the S3 came out because it was too expensive and the feature set was crippled (no TIVO to Go). This winter I'll finally make the plunge to a large plasma or LCD HD TV. I have a couple of questions about this plunge.

If I get an S3 and want to use the dual tuner capability does the new TV that I'll buy need to have two cable card slots?

I'm a Comcast user and from reading the threads on this forum believe that at some time during the next year or two Comcast will offer an HD turner with full Tivo functionality. Is this true? If so, does it make sense to buy the S3?

Are there any other issues that I should consider? The HD TV, HD DVR and probable HD DVD will be a large expenditure for me and I'd like to get it right.

Thanks,

Keith

[A J Ricaud]

If I get an S3 and want to use the dual tuner capability does the new TV that I'll buy need to have two cable card slots? Keith

The TV does not need a cablecard slot. The cablecards, up to 2, go in the Tivo box.
You will need 2 cards if you want dual tuner cable functionality.

[bidger]

Are there any other issues that I should consider?

Switched Digital Video, aka SDV, since you're with Comcast. There's an official SDV spotting thread on the board.

[vstone]

No, you should steal one! (Just kidding!!)

[moyekj]

Wait a couple more months for the $299 Tivo S3 lite to come out if price is really a barrier for you...

[c-surfer]

The S3 is fantastic and the best way to record HD programs. I'm very pleased with mine.

[Jedi4141]

Yes.

[Redux]

We love TIVO!!!...This winter I'll finally make the plunge to a large plasma or LCD HD TVLook at the situation at that time.

In the meantime, read casually for background, to prepare. Avoid all posts where someone gives the impression of running around in circles shouting "Switched Video is Coming! Switched Video is Coming!" Also read with some suspicion posts that contain the equivalent of "I like (or liked) Tivo as much as anyone else, but ..."

As soon as you hear the "but," watch your wallet.

[GoHokies!]

Yes.
My thoughts exactly.

Actually, redux has some good advice - don't make the jump until you are closer to having the TV, by that time the landscape (MRV/TTG/SDV) may have changed.