I had a similar problem. Per advice of tech guy who came out - try unplugging the dvr at least overnight. When you plug it back in, it will reboot, etc., and then may (or may not) work okay. At least it can't make the problem worse.

Thought someone might like to know "diagnosis." Tech just left here - new receiver on order. However, old one now working (for now). He said problem is a short inside the box - recommends unplugging power cord for several hours (I had unplugged it before, but only for a few minutes) and...

Rebooting does not help - the same thing happens. I have rebooted, unplugged, sworn at it, and it still freezes when it gets to the "play" screen. Any ideas? Go Blue!!!

Second HR-20 died today. DTV coming Friday to bless ordering of replacement. Phone tech support reactivated my old TiVo, so at least I have TV (just not HD through the TiVo). Since TiVo is working fine, we know cables and dish/lnb are okay - problem is definitely with HR 20. I want to watch...