QUOTE(JAYNO20 @ Nov 7 2007, 12:21 PM)

it doesn't matter whether its on or off, from what i've read microsoft can detect u playing a backup game whether u play it online or off, disconnected from the internet or connected, they will find out. Some speculate something gets stored on the HDD and gets sent to microsoft after u connect, is that true? who knows, but the fact is they can detect u whether u play backups online or off.
Basically just like this site says, if u like to play on live dont mod ur console cause they WILL find out sooner or later.
It is
possible that ms will be able to detect whether or not you can play backups, off line, eventually. But, the fact is that Microsoft does not know whether or not you use a backup (especially if it is properly stealth patched) when you are not connected to Live. Many people even play their properly patched backups on Live. The hard drive does not store/send that kind of information.
The advantages to flashing your drive are that you can always flash it back to the original firmware, and that you can do it yourself almost for free. I use xtreme5.3 firmware and only play backups off line. When I play online, I always switch to my originals. I have never had a single problem or hicup with Live.
As for chipping, the new NME 2.0 chip looks good to me. It does not touch the drives original firmware and completely deactivates when an original is in. Also, it has the option of disabling the network when a backup is in the drive, so the fact you are using a chip would not get sent to ms.
I would personally go with flashing the firmware, but do some research on these forums and on the internet and weigh the pros and cons before considering either option.
If you never want to worry about future Live issues, then the only only solution would be to leave your 360 untouched and only play originals. I guess its like abstinence - its the only way to be sure you won't have any undesirable consequences. Similarly, a firmware/chip with properly patched backups would be analogous to the condom - It may only be about 99.8% efficient, but it allows for a lot more fun.
This post has been edited by NoIncentive: Nov 8 2007, 02:03 AM