You could also connect your DVD recorder to the digital converter from its A/V ports as well. I know mine has front and back ports on it, and that's how I connected to my converter box.
Well, at least from 4 - 11 PM E/P (3 - 10 PM your time) Mondays through Tuesdays,, 3 - 11 PM E/P Wednesdays through Fridays, and weekends from 6 - 11 PM E/P, ION is a pretty good network. They're actually showing more modern films and shows these days. Saw The Matrix Reloaded just a couple of weeks ago on the channel, in 16:3 widescreen.
And qubo, 55.2, is a 24-hour children's network with no infomercials. ION Life, 55.3, is kind of like an odd mix of health, DIY, and lifestyle shows. The Worship Channel, 55.3, well . . . you can always bypass that one.