I'd imagine most people mistake the fan noise for transport mech noise on the DR1. The transport mech / disc wind noise is very low on this machine, the fan is louder but still nicely quiet on the example that I have.
Done a quick test recording earlier on to a DVD-RAM and all was well. Will have to figure out how the edit functions works next as I never got the proper full manual, only have the "quick start guide" but have managed to suss most things so far.
Not too worried about PVR just yet. I have cable at home too (Telewest), but would sooner get freeview but we don't have transmitter coverage in our area yet. I don't watch most of the extra channels even on the intermediate level channel package that I currently have, only have it as it just so happens to be free for the first 6 months as I've just moved house so have gained it as a new customer benefit (even though I was previous customer at my old house).