TiVo HD XL

[ Music ] ^M00:00:03 >> Hi, I'm John Falcone, Senior Editor at www.cnet.com and this is the TiVo HD XL. As you might guess from the name this step up model is very similar to the existing TiVo HD DVR except for three differences. This model is THX certified, it includes the premium back lit TiVo remote, and the most important feature, it's got a 1 terabyte hard drive. That means you can record up to 150 hours of high def TV programming, and if that's not enough for you, the TiVo HD XL is expandable. The only button is the manual toggle for resolution. It supports 480P and high def 720P and 1080I output. Around back you'll find support for all the major AD connections including HDMI. There's also an Ethernet jack so that the TiVo can access your home network. The TiVo HD XL uses cable card technology, so it completely replaces your existing cable box. It also has a digital antenna connection so it can record over the air, Analog, and digital HD channels as well. Overall, TiVo's interface and programming guide is still far superior to most other standard cable company DVRs, but the TiVo does come with Caviats. The user interface tends to be a bit sluggish as well. The TiVo HD XL can't access video on demand services, and cable systems that use a transmission method called Switched Digital Video will require a separate accessory called a Tuning Resolver. Unlike most standard DVRs, the TiVo HD XL also has excellent integration with a variety online internet resources. Among the highlights, the ability to access audio and video podcasts, listen to Rhapsody's premium music service, watch YouTube videos, and stream music and photos from your home PC. Given the higher price on the HD XL we think most users will be content to stick with the regular TiVo HD, but if you're a major couch potato who needs to have dozens of hours of high def video on the box at any one time, the TiVo HD XL may be worth the extra money. I'm John Falcone for CNET and this is the TiVo HD XL. ^M00:02:20 [ Music ]