It's not your imagination. I have heard that CableCARDs are better because all the descrambling is done inside the tv, whereas with a set-top, the box is the one doing the work. I can't imagine why you wouldn't be able to record scrambled signals from your tv to your dvr.
Unless the CableCARD doesn't allow it, then I suppose having a box would be the solution but, as it stands, you should be able to keep the cablecard and use your dvr with the tv, here's how:
1. Pop in the CableCard
2. Connect cable from the wall to the CABLE input on the tv.
3. Connect composite cables (yellow, red and white) to the dvr's INPUT 1 or INPUT 3 (input 1 is auto start recording and I'm assuming input 3 will allow you to tell the dvr whenever you want to record, check your dvr's manual)
4. Connect the other end of the composite cables coming from the DVR to the tv's MONITOR OUT
(This should let you send the programs from the tv to the DVR for recording)
5. Connect Component Cables and Audio Cables to INPUT 5 on the tv
6. Connect the other end of the Component and Audio cables coming from the tv to the dvr's COMPONENT VIDEO OUT and the Audio Cables (red and white) to the Audio Outputs on OUTPUT 2
(this should let you send the signal back to the tv for viewing of recorded programs)
I just purchased a Sony TV KD34XBR960 and had cable Co. install a cable card in slot. Picture was BEAUTIFUL but they told me I couldn't record digital or HD programs on my Pioneer DVR 533H because there was no way to get scrambled signal from TV to DVR.
I just had them back to remove card and give me a set top box so now I can record scrambled signal but it appears the picture isn't as sharp. Is it my imagination or do I just need to tweak the color settings? If picture sharpness is my main concern do I need to go back to card?
Chowhound
Comic Vine
GameFAQs
GameSpot
Giant Bomb
TechRepublic