As a new subscriber, having switched from a different provider, i find some features lacking ... for example rather than recordings being determined by channel, they should be determined by show and episode Eg, if i want to record new big bang theory in hd, i simply select that show from the search function or channel guide and indicate to record new and hd. The pvr then slots each episode in from any of the subscribed channels taking into account recording conflicts and scheduling changes.
I don't need to worry if an individual show is moved to a different time slot as the pvr updates it or moves the recording to a different channel. If the recording doesn't complete properly, it then auto scedules a rerecord of the show at a different time.
In addition to the smart record features i cld still manual record, or pick a specific channel to record the series from if i wanted.
Once a show or episode is set to record on one channel or timeslot, an indicator shows on the guide on any other versions of that show so that you can tell its already in your pvr list. (Example below..the little circle with a line tells me its being recorded on another channel or at a different time)