said by westdc:Right Now you have 8 tuners that can record - the Genie will add 5 Tuners - A mini has NO tuner and takes a LIVE tuner away from the genie while viewing live TV - Leaving you with 4 tuners to record with.
Advantage for you is to replace one of less used DVR's with a GENIE giving you 11 Live Tuners to record from. Or Keep what you have
You may also need to have your LNB replaced or have your house rewired, depending on your situation. Some LNB's will only support 8 tuners. There is a new one out that will support up to 13, but it is currently only available in certain areas, or you could buy one on eBay.
When your installer comes, discuss that with him before he starts work, and also ask him if he has an HR-44 on the truck to install for you. If he only has an HR-34, kindly tell him that you want to cancel and will reschedule, and would he please be sure to bring an HR-44 when he comes back for the rescheduled appointment. You won't regret holding out for the better unit.