Well, that's one problem (admittedly, a major one)

The other problem is that neither TiVO or ReplayTV do a SECAM-capable model, which is the TV standard France use. So without a video format converter (one on the input, and one on the output unless your TV is multistandard) you won't get any pictures.

Plus, in that case you might have fun as you'd need to control an external tuner, and the IR blaster might not have the codes for your local cable box/etc.

Most definitely not worth the hassle.

Hugo
ps: TiVO is available in Europe - the UK, at least! I think it may also now be shipping in germany; obviously, we get a PAL model, support for all the local hardware (cable boxes, etc), and programme guide info.