You might also try:
1. Disable file indexing in services.msc
2. Exclude your storage HD from virus scans
3. Archive old recorded shows to an additional hard drive or NAS (adding their location to the media library will still allow you to access them directly)
There doesn’t seem to be any viable alternative to WMC where CableCard AND protected content are involved. WMC has become Microsoft’s neglected step-child. I wish they would sell it off and let someone else improve upon it.
