What Should Be Done?

• COMPLAIN! Complain to your cable company, and to Scientific Atlanta for releasing such crap. If we don't make some noise, nothing will ever change.
• If your cable company is currently providing Explorer 8000's  with SARA, urge them to upgrade. It appears that the Passport models are far superior - but this is a real battle because it means that cable head-end equipment has to change.
• If you have an 8000, upgrade to a model 8300 - it's better, but not great.
• DON'T BUY ONE - Only bring an Explorer into your house if you can rent it - and upgrade as often as new models are available. I was in a line up at my local Rogers cable store this weekend upgrading to the 8300 from the 8000 - and there were three other people in the line doing the same thing. The girl behind the counter didn't even ask why.
• Buy a TIVO or ReplayTV instead. You'll be a lot happier.