Very interesting read, Rich! the WD20EVDS that I've had for four years (on an HR21-200 during that time), and now on the new HR24-200, is still running in the BlacX TT Dock you recommended all that time ago. When that drive goes, I'll probably get one of the ones I just bought, WD20EURX and drop it in the dock. The HR24-200 has over 20 series links, about 15 movies and several seasons of HD-VOD series like Boardwalk Empire, Deadwood, Newsroom, etc.It is still about 85% free.
The new drive, WD20EURX and enclosure TT Max 5 went together very, very easily. I'm a mechanical moron and even I could see what to do. I love the enclosure. It doesn't look like it would take a bunch of rough handling, but it protects the drive much better and cools it much better than the TT Dock. I'd have no problem sticking with this combo as my "goto" setup. Mounting the drive into the enclosure couldn't be simpler, very clean, and getting the enclosure case open is just removing two hex screws (for which they give you the screwdriver). The two large fans run very, very quietly. I had to put my hand in front of them to see if they were working. The blue fan lights are "cool" (but I have them turned off), and the front power/activity light is not overly bright, but I like seeing it blink a bit. Unlike the dock which goes orange for activity, the enclosure stays all blue and just blinks a bit.
I don't see how anyone with our recording habits could live with a Genie and a 1 TB drive...not and make use of the five tuners. After all, if you have that many, you need to keep them busy!
I have no doubt that the larger drives internal work better than external. I've had the same worry about my TT Dock/Drive....had to yell at someone the other day to stay away from the back of the HT setup. No cleaning, no dusting, no nuthin', STAY AWAY. You would love my equipment rack, now, Rich. I have a 15 dBi gain yagi mounted to the side rail pointing down the hall to the far end of the house to integrate the HR24-200 that is on its own dish. Then again, I think all antennas are things of beauty.
Thanks again for your comments, most enjoyable and informative.