Sounds like your wiring would be suficent.
As for pausing live TV, not if you get the free HD receivers, only can pause on the HR34. If you upgrade to additional HD-DVRs you could do that. The thought it that the C30 client for the HR34 may be able to do this, but it is probably 6+ months from market, very little info on it. Now, if you tell the show to record, then start playing it (you can do this immediately), then you can pause, skip, rewind, etc. You can schedule a recording for the HR34 from a HD receiver.
Lead time varies by market, some can be as soon as next day, other areas may be a week out.
Don't forget to use a referral to save money, or the AAA member offer. You can also call Claude at Dishstore, a sponsor here, he can make some pretty good Directv new customer offers too.