And if you're using the direct-TV enabled Tivo, there is no need to download the latest guide info, as that comes in over the satellite stream. In this case the sub service is simply to pay for copyright infringement issues. (Tivo knows it can be ripped in digital format, and has to pay to avoid lawsuits). This is from a TIVO exec that I hounded one night trying to figure out why I had to pay $10 a month so they can watch my usage statistics. Also, the Tivo can be hacked not to require a call at all, therefore no monthly charge. But I didn't say that.