The only problem I have with the whole thing is if I buy a "lifetime" subscription I think I should be able to use it with a different unit if one dies or I upgrade.

I wouldn't expect them to warranty a unit that has been cracked open or screwed with in any way i'm not talking about the warranty I am talking about the subscription to the service. I probably wouldn't use any of the hacks I don't really care about saving shows recorded off tv and my tiny 20 hour tivo has enough space so I can't imagine wanting to add another hdd.

The fear I would have is I would get the lifetime subscription the unit would die in a year then I would be stuck paying too much to get it repaired or just be out the money for the service.

They won't keep the MPAA laywers away they would just make up something else to sue them over.