How can I stop being a slave to cable utilities?

I have some bits and pieces, but can I enjoy the DVR capability with HiDef and local programming without subscribing to Verizon FIOS or Comcast (or others)? I do not know what I would lose if I went to NetFlix with basic cable. I am sure they would tell me the price of the lesser package will exceed the packages they offer, and if they do not exceed, the providers seem to have a way of making it do so.
Ideas?