Though not as sophisticated as the TiVo Premiere, cable company-provided DVRs are becoming easier to use, offer good performance and are the least expensive solution for most cable subscribers. Though models, features and… expandcapabilities vary by provider, most cable DVRs top out at 300 hours of standard-definition (SD) programs, or 60 hours of high definition (HD), though many have less capacity. They are able to pause, rewind and fast-forward live television and skip ahead (over commercials, for example) and back (instant replay). Many providers are also offering advanced features, like the ability to program your DVR online or from a phone. Most also have dual tuners for recording two shows at once. Because you're renting the DVR, you can usually upgrade to your cable provider's latest technology at no or low cost. Some cable companies -- with more to follow -- are now offering DVRs with TiVo software.
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