Washington, D.C. (December 28, 2006) -- I get scores of e-mails every week from readers asking everything from whether they should buy a new HDTV to when will their TV provider add new high-def channels.

So, from time to time, I will publish my responses here in this new column called, "Ask Swanni!"

Q. Last week, you ripped the new DIRECTV HD DVR apart. Is it working any better? -- Sandy K. 
Last week, I reported that DIRECTV's new high-def recorder (HR 20) has generated customer complaints around the country for faulty recordings and other software bugs. Personally, I had to reboot the device about 25 times and make several calls to the company's Customer Service department. Finally, DIRECTV sent me a replacement unit, which also had trouble recording shows as scheduled.

However, after two more reboots this week -- and two more calls to Customer Service -- the HD DVR seems to be working well. The machine actually has recorded seven straight shows without a glitch. Of course, on Christmas Day, every channel went black except for my local channels. However, after another reboot -- and another call to Customer Service -- the channels returned. (The Customer Service rep blamed the HD DVR.)

So, bottom line, I am hopeful that DIRECTV is close to working out the kinks. I am not ready to recommend it yet. But, yes, I am hopeful.

Update: Sorry, I have to take back my hopeful words. Last night I recorded three shows on DIRECTV's HD DVR. Tonight, after I originally published this column, I tried to watch them. No dice. They all failed to record. And so it goes.

Q. You said that DIRECTV will add 40 HDTV channels next year. Do you know which ones?  -- Matt P.
Actually, David Hill, DIRECTV's president of entertainment, told TVPredictions.com that the satcaster will carry at least 40 HDTV channels by mid-2007. However, he did not specify which channels will be added.

Q. Any predictions for the new Laser HDTV? Will it destroy LCD and Plasma? -- Mark S. 
Mitsubishi says the new "Laser TV" will be introduced in 2007 and it will use lasers instead of lamps to send images to the screen. Consequently, the picture could be sharper than current flat-screen sets. However, until it's launched, it's just talk. And Plasma and LCD makers have a big head start.


The Toronto-based 'Naked News' service.

Q. I saw your story about the "Naked News" criticizing Consumer Reports' rankings for high-def sets. Should I think twice about using Consumer Reports for high-def advice? -- Barney B.
Consumer Reports offers comprehensive and thoughtful reviews of new high-def sets. And there's no doubt that the magazine has a strong track record. However, like any review, it's one person's (or organization's) opinion. You should consult several sources before buying.