can I access my directv recordings from a dead genie?

My directv Genie just died. I haven't watched any of my recorded shows for a couple of weeks (vacation, etc). Before I open the box and try to mess with the hard drive, I was hoping someone knew whether or not I could recover the recordings. I didn't think it was possible, but the directv rep hinted that I could do it when I called to have the genie replaced.