TiVo Frequently Asked Questions - TiVo FAQ

TiVo DVR with DVD Recorder FAQ

What TiVo DVRs have DVD Recorders built in?

Currently, Humax is the only companies manufacturing TiVo DVRs with a built-in DVD burner. Pioneer previously manufactured the DVR-810H and the Elite DVR-57H, but the Pioneer units have been discontinued. Toshiba previously manufactured the RS-TX20 and RS-TX60, but those units, too, have been discontinued.

The Humax factory models are the DRT400 (40 GB) and DRT800 (80 GB). WeaKnees also offers these units in larger capacities for those looking for more recording time.

What are the differences between the Toshiba and the Humax?

These units are the same in all respects (same functionality, same parts, same cables, same accessories, etc.), except for the following:

• The Toshiba comes with TiVo Basic and does not require a subscription to the TiVo service. The Humax requires a subscription (see below).
• The remotes and faceplates have "Humax" or "Toshiba" stamped on them
• There are slight differences in the appearance of the faceplate
• The Humax DRT400 has no FireWire port

Can the Toshiba and Humax units record VHS tapes onto DVD? Can I record home movies onto DVD?

Yes. Using composite inputs (red/white/yellow) on the back of the units, you can attach any input source, including a home video camera or a VCR for recording to DVD. Once you have the external source connected, the Humax and Toshiba will both allow you to record to DVD from that source. In addition, all units except the DRT400 have digital inputs that will allow you to connect a digital video sources (eg. Mini-DV).

Will the Toshiba and Humax units allow me to edit content before burning to DVD?

No. These units do not include editing features. But it will allow you to set the DVD to burn several shows in order, and it will create a TiVo-style menu on the DVD for accessing those recordings.

How long does it take to burn DVDs?

These units include up to 4x record speed. It takes about 15 minutes to burn a 1-hour program to DVD in basic quality mode (using DVR Version 2.0 4X Media). Recordings at higher quality levels will take somewhat longer to burn. Recordings from an external source (video camera, VCR, etc., burn in real time).

Can I burn multiple recordings onto DVD?

Yes. Before burning, you will be given a list of your recorded shows. You will select which shows you want to burn and the order in which you want them to appear. When played, the burned DVD will show an on-screen menu allowing you to navigate to the show you want to play.

If I burn a DVD, can I move that DVD to a laptop or other DVD-player to watch the recorded shows?

Yes. The DVDs recorded onto the Pioneer will play in most standard DVD players, including DVD players in PCs.

I have a Series 2 standalone TiVo with the Home Media Option. If I buy the Toshiba/Humax, can I burn the shows from my other TiVo onto the DVD in the Toshiba/Humax?

Yes and no. No, you cannot use the Home Media Features to burn shows in digital format. You can, however, connect the standalone TiVo to the Toshiba/Humax and burn recordings in real time, just as you would save a show to VCR.

Do the Humax/Toshiba units come with lifetime service?

Yes and no. The Toshibas (but NOT the Humaxes) includes "TiVo Basic" service, which is a stripped-down version of the full TiVo service (called "TiVo Plus"). If you want the full features of the TiVo service, you must order TiVo Plus. If you want to network your TiVo and take advantage of the Home Media Features, you must purchase the TiVo Plus service. See the chart below (Source, TiVo.com)

Do the Humax/Toshiba units work with DirecTV? I have DirecTV and want TiVo and a DVD burner, what should I get?

The Humax and Toshiba units will work with cable, DishNetwork, DirecTV and antenna inputs. However, these units do not have a built-in DirecTV receiver. If you have DIRECTV and want TiVo, you should consider a DIRECTV DVR and a standalone DVD recorder.

The Humax/Toshiba units lack many of the features present in the DirecTV/TiVo DVRs (such as the ability to record two shows at the same time).

If you have DirecTV and are looking for a TiVo that can also burn to DVD, then you have a tough decision. On one hand, you can purchase a DirecTV/TiVo unit and a separate DVD recorder (see here) without TiVo. Alternatively, you can purchase a Toshiba or Humax unit with a burner and use it with a separate DirecTV receiver. Here are our thoughts:

Using DirecTV with a DVD-Recorder: The Options