[mythtv-users] Getting a Motorola 6200 Box from Chicago Comcast

[Matt Garman]

I'm living in the Chicago area and have (because they are the only
choice) Comcast for high speed internet and cable TV.

I'm on their 3 for $33 dollar deal ($33 each for VOIP, internet and
"basic extended" cable).

As I've discovered by searching the mythtv archives, Chicagoland
Comcast's distribution is almost all digital, and as such, requires a
set-top box.  The box they gave me is a General Instrument.
Unfortunately, this STB has neither firewire nor any working outputs
that will work with my PVR-150.  So no MythTV right now.

I called to see if I could get one of the Motorola boxes (I believe I
want the 6200 high-def box).  I can rent it for $4.99/month, which I
can tolerate.  But they won't give me the box unless I upgrade my
service, which costs another $20/month!

So has anyone out there figured out a way to obtain the box without
the premium service?  I didn't speak to a manager on the phone, but
the customer service rep claimed she asked one... so, dunno if I
should keep calling with the hope that another rep will do this for
me, or pursue some other avenue.

For what it's worth, I really don't need the VOIP, but as far as I can
tell, it's a requirement for getting cable and internet at $33 each.

Any ideas?

Thank you,
Matt