I think the PAL is in between the TIVO and the MDR -- closer to TIVO. Unless I am mistaken, the MDR is more like a VCR. No TV Guide, right? For me, the guide is coveted. That I can search it or use it to schedule recordings is a plus. Maybe less valuable to others. I don't sell these things ;-)
Pretty good MDR comparison here (follow the first link)...
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showp...86&postcount=1