Series 3 rebate -- New account activation only?

[enthalpy]

I don't see an answer to this in the forums, so I'll ask the stupid question:

I am ready to buy a Series 3 since the $399 price (after rebate) is right. But I'm a current Series 2 customer, on month-by-month service, which I want to keep. I called Tivo, they said sure, no problem, just buy the S3, and then transfer the service to the new box. Great . . . ready to buy, and then I read the fine print on the rebate form. Good only for new service activation only.

Does anyone know if this requirement is loosely interpreted? I'd like to get the $200 rebate, and only transfer my current account to the S3. Does Tivo allow this?

Thanks,
Allen

[greg_burns]

Does Tivo allow this?

Don't think so.

http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?p=5167891#post5167891

[enthalpy]

Thanks Greg. Man -- this community is fast. I ask a question and, bam, an answer. I hadn't found that thread you linked to. Lots and back and forth (yes you can, no you can't) but I think I have my answer. Guess I'll buy the S3 (because now, I just want it), and sign up for the yearly plan. That's better than paying my Tivo subscription and the crappy HD cable box I have now.

Allen

[greg_burns]

If you have another Tivo already, you can get the S3 at the MSD price of $9.95/month.

Don't transfer your service and take the rebate, it will pay for the MSD cost for two years.

Sound right?

Edit: I see a minimum 1yr service plan required. I assume the $99 1yr prepaid MSD one will do.