This model makes it very easy to tape programs off the DirecTV satellite as well as making time shift recordings utilizing both DirecTV and cable/broadcast channels. While other brands of VCRs may allow you to turn on/off and channel up/down, the U776 makes it truly easy to use your DirecTV system. Your DirecTV receiver is attached directly to the S-Video input on the back of the VCR, which in turn is attached to your TV via an S-Video output. The signal passes through meaning that the VCR does not have to be on to watch DirecTV. The built-in 181-channel FS tuner allows you direct access to channels up to number 999. By attaching a remote sensor to the infrared "eye" of your DirecTV receiver the VCR will turn the unit on/off plus change the channels of your DirecTV. It works much like the cable-box controllers found on many VCR Plus+ models. You do not have to go thorough L1 or L2 to access DirecTV.