I am thinking of buying the 970 however I can not see the point of copying divx files to the hard disk anyhow so that doesn't bother me personally.
You can put 6 movies on a 20p dvd.
It depends on the file system they use on the Sony and probably can be read, there is always a way but to no point.
I can't see it working myself due to the file filters, I don't think I'd take it apart anyhow as it would void the warranty.
The only way you could play divx and transfer via usb is if sony decided to change the firmware.
I would have said get a Samsung SH855M as it can transfer divx via usb to the hdd, however I owned one and returned it for a refund due to the fact it was
There is the new Philips DVDR5570 coming out soon that can do it as well.
LG dvd recorders have had this function for years. You can pick up an LG RH177 for around £150 with an 80GB hdd, take out the hard disk and replace with a bigger drive.
Also the LG can record in xvid.