Using vcr programming w/ new dtv converter boxes.?

Does anyone have any suggestions using a vcr (NTSC) with the new coupon eligible DTV converter boxes now becoming available for purchase for use with og systems (tv, vcr) when OTA broadcast signals convert to all digital in Feb.'09? I ume that the VCR+ system in my vcrs will become useless when this conversion occurs. Someone in another posting said setting the vcr to channel 3 or 4 would allow vcr timer recording from the converter box as long as you make certain it is set to the correct digital channel you want to record. This is problematic though in that these converter boxes all must be Energy Star compliant and must, therefore, power off after a short period of inactivity rendering any kind of unattended timer recording (hours later) useless. I guess the only alternative is to hook the converter box up to a programmable timer to turn on at or slightly before the recording time arrives. Your thoughts? Thanks.