My question is, is there a device that you can hook up to record video from cable television that does not involve a subscription-based service and does not involve using your computer (at first)? For instance, are there any recorders that will record a digital video file of a tv show that I can then (after recording) transfer the file to my computer to burn to a DVD?
What I want, essentially, is a digital VCR that will allow me to transfer files to my PC for manipulation/authoring, without having to pay a monthly service, while still getting high-quality. Does such a thing exist?