At the present time, using an STB to transfer HDTV to a DVHS recorder via firewire results in a tape that can only be played back through the STB, as the DVHS recorders have no DVI or HDMI outputs. A box that could take the firewire output from the DVHS recorder and convert it to either DVI or HDMI would allow direct playback without going through the STB. It would also have the more important advantage of permitting monitoring of the input signal to the recorder during the recording process. Obviously, in order to be truly useful, the output would have to be HDCP compliant. Additionally, it would have to have a separate digital audio output, for installations using a front projector.

Probably more $$$ then you want to spend but the Key Digital Hanna does this I believe.