This is interesting. Tivo has added a network control interface for home automation control to their series 3 (HD) units. This was designed for Crestron interface, but it looks open to all. This could be useful in giving LMCE an Encrypted QAM record/playback capability, even if it is limited. The Hauppage unit might be the better way to go, but this is certainly something that could be added in a fairly straightforward manner to LMCE.
http://www.zatznotfunny.com/2008-05/network-remote-control-of-tivo-iphone/