I would like to be able to set all defaults for new recordings. I always have to change the maximum number of recordings and to record only new episodes. My wife likes to record only single episodes.

My vote would be to allow us to set ALL timer parameters as custom defaults. Once you have done one, how hard is it to do the rest?

Getstuff4less is right. If the option was there, everyone has the option to ignore it. Those of us who want it could use it. Win-win for everyone!