thx for the encouragement.. i've decided to probably go with the 522 only (even with the issues) its the most cost effective dvr package that i see. i agree that d* probably has better equipment and software but i only care about the cost at this point. e*, with all their problems, is still a good deal pricewise. i have friends and family with both and none of them have any problems, probably because they aren't hardcore tv enthusiasts.. just tv watchers.