Philips DSR6000R DIRECTV Receiver with TiVo Service
You Must Get Tivo!  Must!
I'm not a huge TV watcher, but a friend was so big on this that I decided to get it when I installed a new DIRECTV system.  Tivo is an absolute must-have that totally changes the way you watch TV.  I'd give up color before I'd go back to TV without Tivo. One practical bit of advice -- only get it with a unified receiver, not a standalone which limits flexibility.  You will see twice as much of what you like to watch without adding any time in front of the TV (although you may well spend more time and see even more).  This is not a glorified VCR; it is a life-changer.  My editorial can't do justice; visit a friend who has it or just trust me and you won't regret it.