I don't spend a lot of time watching tv. For a while I was just watching digital OTA. I'm in the Chicago metro area, with about 30 digital channels - 22 or so in English, maybe 10 in HD. But OTA tv is pretty bland after awhile. I live in an area that does not have cable tv access, an unincorporated island in suburbia.

I recently decided to subscribe to sat, mostly to get a few channels I like: History, Discovery, FoxNews, EWTN, ESPN. While surfing, I might pause on TLC, Food, Weather, Spike, HNN, SciFi. Most of the others I can live without. Some of them are complete rubbish. So I went looking for the cheapest possible plan that would give me the channels I wanted.

DN has a "family" plan for $20/mo, but it lacked Discovery, History and some others. DTV wanted $30/mo for their "family" plan, likewise missing some channels I wanted. So I took one step up, and here the differences were big. DN's Bronze 100 is $35/m, while DTV's comparable pack is $56/mo. DTV's pack does have a few more decent channels, but nothing important to me.

Both plans had new customer promos, DN offered $10/mo for six months, DTV $35 for one year. The deal killer for me was going up to $56 after one year - out of my price range. So I went with DN, and so far I'm pleased with it. Besides the promo price here's the good:

- Good equipment for a budget plan; vip211k receiver, 1000.4 dish with 3 LNBF, aimed at Eastern Arc sats. Everyone else in town points SW, I'm the first one with a dish facing SSE! Everything is in MPEG4.
- installer did a good job, everything works. No hassles.
- I have an HD tv, so everything is HD capable, even tho my only HD programming is OTA channels and my 3 free months of HBO/Starz. (I dunno if DTV would even offer that at this price) No HD access fees.
- So far only signal loss was very brief during a big rainstorm. About what I expected.

The only bad so far:
- They tried tacking on some fees for unneeded stuff. I didn't need a second receiver, but the online ordering process tricked me into ordering one. I got that fixed before the installer arrived. They also wanted to charge an extra $5/mo for locals. But the 211k gets the locals from my old aerial, and integrates them with the sat channels. I had to pay $5 one-time to get that changed.

I think I got a good deal for a low-price plan.

The 211 will integrate your local off air stations..... but you won't get info on them in the program guide unless you pay the $5 locals fee.

You can also get an 2.0 External Hardrive for your 211k and record tv shows and movies , and then play them back almost like a DVR right from your receiver.
This cost a one time Fee $40. But no other monthly fees.

As far as getting some bang for your buck with some solid channels. I would think dish would be a good choice looking at the base package comapared to Direct, I think Dish gives you a few more good channel choices

As far as getting some bang for your buck with some solid channels. I would think dish would be a good choice looking at the base package comapared to Direct, I think Dish gives you a few more good channel choices

MLB?

MLB?He's looking to save money , Not spend $60 per month.
Unless MLB is in D* crappy Family Pack. Doubt it.!
E* top 200 with DVR atvantage is only $57.99
Or $47.99 without DVR. D* Doesn't have anything that compairs down that low in price.
Lets be realistic now.

He's looking to save money , Not spend $60 per month.
Unless MLB is in D* crappy Family Pack. Doubt it.!
E* top 200 with DVR atvantage is only $57.99
Or $47.99 without DVR. D* Doesn't have anything that compairs down that low in price.
Lets be realistic now.

Don't waste your breath on him, Hemi...to a carpenter with a hammer, everything looks like a nail. To a sports-addict with D*, everything looks like a sportspack. :D

Short-sightedness based on obsessiveness, nothing more... :)

Anyway...if you are looking for more HD for your buck, E* is the only way to go...even if you sub to premium channels, you would STILL be getting more HD for your premium dollar.

At the end of the day, Charlie's primary business model is to compete based on price-points. Now, while I consider myself a high-end sub and that may not always work for me when he goes flip-flopping channels around in the middle night, but it might be ok for you if you are really just looking for more bang for your buck...just don't complain because at times, you do get what you pay for... ;)

Don't waste your breath on him, Hemi...to a carpenter with a hammer, everything looks like a nail. To a sports-addict with D*, everything looks like a sportspack. :D

Short-sightedness based on obsessiveness, nothing more... :)

Anyway...if you are looking for more HD for your buck, E* is the only way to go...even if you sub to premium channels, you would STILL be getting more HD for your premium dollar.

At the end of the day, Charlie's primary business model is to compete based on price-points. Now, while I consider myself a high-end sub and that may not always work for me when he goes flip-flopping channels around in the middle night, but it might be ok for you if you are really just looking for more bang for your buck...just don't complain because at times, you do get what you pay for... ;)

Welcome Back!:D

He's looking to save money , Not spend $60 per month.
Unless MLB is in D* crappy Family Pack. Doubt it.!
E* top 200 with DVR atvantage is only $57.99
Or $47.99 without DVR. D* Doesn't have anything that compairs down that low in price.
Lets be realistic now.

He said "base" package, I take that to be Choice & Choice Extra, not Family.

After all the E* extra hidden fees, there is not much of a difference in price.

And this so called HD Turbo that doesn't even include all the HD channels is a joke.

Welcome Back!:D
First post back is a personal attack on you.

First post back is a personal attack on you.

I thought he wasn't allowed in here?? :rolleyes:

I logged off for a few days...when I logged back on. there it was again...don't know what happened.

either way, I didn't attack anyone. just gave a plausible explanation on individual perception and how it influences topic drift. that's all.

I just hope the op got his answers...

First post back is a personal attack on you.

Should I expect anything else?

of course not...the way you all dish it out I'd expect you to be able to take it...

of course not...the way you all dish it out I'd expect you to be able to take it...

I don't have a problem with it.

I decided to compare my current package to a comparable Dish package. I believe my package is more in line with what the average HD sub pays. I got the Dish info off of their website so I may be off.

250+ channels, 2 DVRs, HD access, locals, and HD extra

For me with D*:

$58 for Total Choice Plus (200+ channels)
$6.00 for DVR service (both DVRs on the account)
$10.00 for HD
$5.00 for HD extra (the HD only channels)
$5.00 for the additional receiver
locals included (8 locals in HD and 2 FULL-TIME RSNs)

Total = $84

I did not include EI since it is not possible to compare.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
According to Dish's website the comparable package to mine would be:

$58 Classic Gold (250+ channels)
$5 for locals (only 6 in HD) and my 2 RSNs are not full time
$10 for HD access
$10 for Platinum HD (similar to D* HD Extra)
$12 for DVR service (2 DVRs)

Total = $95

Cannot include EI since they do not offer it.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

It looks like I pay less with DirecTV

Plus Dish would charge me a fee as I do not have one of my DVRs hooked to a phone line or LAN line.

that's an innacurate post.

your rsn's are not full-time without seasonal ppv sportspacks

you clearly get more HD with Dish for your buck.

and your arbitrary 2 DVR number...lol. compare DVRs while your at it and you gt what u pay for. lol...

let's not post inaccurate information, your habit of doing that to intentionally mislead people is disturbing...

that's an innacurate post.

your rsn's are not full-time without seasonal ppv sportspacks



The RSN statement is accurate, you get your local RSN's in HD full time, no need for seasonal PPV sportspacks.

The RSN statement is accurate, you get your local RSN's in HD full time, no need for seasonal PPV sportspacks.

That is correct.

Looks like Vampz has a Pavlovian reaction anytime he sees the words RSN and Full-time together. So much so that it inhibits his ability to accurately comprehend my posts. What's new?

Yes Vampz, my statement is accurate. I do get my 2 RSNs in HD full time without having to pay a single penny more (like all channels, that does not mean that every single program is in HD). With Dish I have to pay an extra $5 to get my 2 RSNs in SD and only part time in HD as they are part of the local addition. Yes, Dish does charge for each DVR which means I would have a fee for 2 DVRs since I have and use 2 of them.

Again, every time I post info you try to accuse me of lying, misleading, or posting inaccurate info. Try this for the first time...Try to prove that I was inaccurate or misleading instead of simply throwing out accusations without proof. I prove you wrong every time. Even Iceburg showed you were wrong last time we debated.

Your next step is to accuse me of bullying you.
(Yes, that was personal).

I stand corrected, and I apologize...I re-read DKs post (not on my blackberry this time) and he did group his full-time RSNs in with the locals, and they are full-time on a local/regional basis.

Apologies...I was in error on this one...

Thats funny...my brother complains they are off more than on...

And DK says that you can only watch them full time WITH PPV sportspack...

Wow...wrong on both accounts...

So your brother and you are both complainers, that explains a lot.

My local RSN is FSNSouthWest, channel 676, and it's in HD and full time as part of my package.

Please provide links to the posts where DK says that the RSN's included in your programming package, not the RSN SportsPackage are part time since in the post just before yours he doesn't say thay.

Try again Vamp.

I stand corrected, and I apologize...I re-read DKs post (not on my blackberry this time) and he did group his full-time RSNs in with the locals, and they are full-time on a local/regional basis.

Apologies...I was in error on this one...


Cross post, NP.

:up
I stand corrected, and I apologize...I re-read DKs post (not on my blackberry this time) and he did group his full-time RSNs in with the locals, and they are full-time on a local/regional basis.

Apologies...I was in error on this one...

Thank you. I appreciate that.:up

I decided to compare my current package to a comparable Dish package. I believe my package is more in line with what the average HD sub pays. I got the Dish info off of their website so I may be off.

250+ channels, 2 DVRs, HD access, locals, and HD extra

For me with D*:

$58 for Total Choice Plus (200+ channels)
$6.00 for DVR service (both DVRs on the account)
$10.00 for HD
$5.00 for HD extra (the HD only channels)
$5.00 for the additional receiver
locals included (8 locals in HD and 2 FULL-TIME RSNs)

Total = $84

I did not include EI since it is not possible to compare.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
According to Dish's website the comparable package to mine would be:

$58 Classic Gold (250+ channels)
$5 for locals (only 6 in HD) and my 2 RSNs are not full time
$10 for HD access
$10 for Platinum HD (similar to D* HD Extra)
$12 for DVR service (2 DVRs)

Total = $95

Cannot include EI since they do not offer it.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

It looks like I pay less with DirecTV

Plus Dish would charge me a fee as I do not have one of my DVRs hooked to a phone line or LAN line.
If a Dish sub can confirm the accuracy of the Dish price it would be very helpful. I do not trust the website. It does not always indicate all of the fee waivers.

If a Dish sub can confirm the accuracy of the Dish price it would be very helpful. I do not trust the website. It does not always indicate all of the fee waivers.

virtually all of my fees are waived, but I am also a top tier sub, so my input is limited from a budget perspective.

is D* giving you any breaks as a high-end sub?

He said "base" package, I take that to be Choice & Choice Extra, not Family.

. What Hidden Fees? Top 200 includes Locals an a VIP 722 or 625 Whatever he chooses for $57.99 per month. Thats 2 rooms of DVR.
Lets see D* choice pack is $66.99 With DVR in 2 rooms.
Last time I checked 58 was less then 67.;)
Family is a Base pack by the way.

What Hidden Fees? Top 200 includes Locals an a VIP 722 or 625 Whatever he chooses for $57.99 per month. Thats 2 rooms of DVR.
Lets see D* choice pack is $66.99 With DVR in 2 rooms.
Last time I checked 58 was less then 67.;)
Family is a Base pack by the way.

Add the second DVR, since I have more than one HDTV. That narrows it significantly.

And no phone line hooked up to one of them.

Add the second DVR, since I have more than one HDTV. That narrows it significantly.

And no phone line hooked up to one of them.

Curtis knows everything there is to know about E*. Never doubt him.

His hatred for E* knows no limits, his desire to bash E* knows no bounds.

Being obsessed with E* like a jilted ex-lover, he is undoubtedly our most reliable source of information.

keep up the good work! :up

Curtis knows everything there is to know about E*. Never doubt him.

His hatred for E* knows no limits, his desire to bash E* knows no bounds.

Being obsessed with E* like a jilted ex-lover, he is undoubtedly our most reliable source of information.

keep up the good work! :up

i could say the same for you on D*. your fanboyism has you blind

i could say the same for you on D*. your fanboyism has you blind

Except for the fact I am a fan of neither company...I don't know why you would think otherwise when I"ve made it clear that I'm all about objectivity...the one one thing most lacking amongst the fanboy constituency...

the one one thing most lacking amongst the fanboy constituency...

i can certainly agree with that :)

i can certainly agree with that :)

Totally...too many people can't handle the slightest bit of criticism regarding their provider...

I mean, I'll be the first person to tell you that E* is a crock for any number of reasons...

But I will also be the last person to tell you that D* is any better...

Thats objectivity...fair criticism to all! :D :D :D

Totally...too many people can't handle the slightest bit of criticism regarding their provider...

I mean, I'll be the first person to tell you that E* is a crock for any number of reasons...

But I will also be the last person to tell you that D* is any better...

Thats objectivity...fair criticism to all! :D :D :D


Well said

Curtis knows everything there is to know about E*. Never doubt him.

His hatred for E* knows no limits, his desire to bash E* knows no bounds.

Being obsessed with E* like a jilted ex-lover, he is undoubtedly our most reliable source of information.

keep up the good work! :up

So they don't charge for each DVR?

They don't charge for no phone line?

Just asking, since you are the E* expert.

Except for the fact I am a fan of neither company...I don't know why you would think otherwise when I"ve made it clear that I'm all about objectivity...the one one thing most lacking amongst the fanboy constituency...

Really? Show me one post where you supported D*.

Really? Show me one post where you supported D*.
What he is saying is that he bashes both companies and praises neither.

The problem is, when other challenge his points he automatically labels them as fanboys, even if their arguments are legit.

Really? Show me one post where you supported D*.


you wont find one but then again when I only had E and never left the E forums I never saw one on his behalf for E either. so i believe vampz when he says he favors neither. when he comes back he'll tell you himself........

there are a few posts out there where I have given D* the credit it deserves for:

1) full time RSNs on a regional basis. I was not happy last year when my postgame show got cut off.

2) D* has superior PQ in its HD-lil channells. and I am not shy to admit that E* HD local PQ stinks.

I have a posting history of making those claims. feel free to search on your own...

And after today, Dish will be the true national HD leader (as far as national channel count, not number of subs), no matter how one chooses to count channels.

and HD-lil PQ will still stink! :D

there are a few posts out there where I have given D* the credit it deserves for:

1) full time RSNs on a regional basis. I was not happy last year when my postgame show got cut off.

2) D* has superior PQ in its HD-lil channells. and I am not shy to admit that E* HD local PQ stinks.

I have a posting history of making those claims. feel free to search on your own...

oh look.... found one :D

And after today, Dish will be the true national HD leader (as far as national channel count, not number of subs), no matter how one chooses to count channels.

Still based on how you define leader.

Quantity?
Quality?
Do we count RSN's?
Do we count DOD?
Locals?
24/7 channels?
Sports Packages?

Dish will have the most (not necessarily best quality) national HD channels within their basic packages (not including any premium packages). They also have the most national SD and HD premium movie channels.

Direct does have more full time SD and HD RSNs, SD and HD PPVs, and premium sports packages in SD and HD

see what I mean? can't handle criticism and no objectivity...

see what I mean? can't handle criticism and no objectivity...

Only saying it is based on how you define leader.

you are attempting to rationalize things into something you can handle...obviously this unfortunate occurance must be a serious blow too you...

you are attempting to rationalize things into something you can handle...obviously this unfortunate occurance must be a serious blow too you...

Sorry if this concept is above your comprehension.

with this latest occurrence dish has become the HD leader no doubt. things change and right now that's how it is. is it a big deal for me? nope. do i still wish D had E's hardware? yes :D

desparate rationalization is not beyond my comprehension. in fact I see it for exactly what it is. :)

desparate rationalization is not beyond my comprehension. in fact I see it for exactly what it is. :)

You must be looking in the mirror again.

nope. looking right at you...

How did we get from Sat on a budget to HD discussion?

This is starting to sound like an argument my students have with each other.

"I know what you are, but what am I?", arguments.

How did we get from Sat on a budget to HD discussion?
Who has the cheaper HD option? I guess that depends on your needs and your particular setup. For a very low base package with little addtions, Dish is the way to go. Once you start adding equipment and programming (perhaps except for the everything package), then Direct maybe the way to go.

actually, curtis is having more of 'i think therefor I am' argument...:D

DK speaks the truth on that one. it really does come down to the necessary options...

Who has the cheaper HD option? I guess that depends on your needs and your particular setup. For a very low base package with little addtions, Dish is the way to go. Once you start adding equipment and programming (perhaps except for the every package), then Direct is the way to go.
As many of us have said before.:up

actually, curtis is having more of 'i think therefor I am' argument...:D

It's all about you.

DK speaks the truth on that one. it really does come down to the necessary options...

yep :up

Add the second DVR, since I have more than one HDTV. That narrows it significantly.

And no phone line hooked up to one of them.Fine 2 722's That adds $12 to the Price.
Now add $10 to your D* bill as well for your 2 other receivers.

Who has the cheaper HD option? I guess that depends on your needs and your particular setup. For a very low base package with little addtions, Dish is the way to go. Once you start adding equipment and programming (perhaps except for the everything package), then Direct maybe the way to go. Thank you !
My Prices showed that!

Fine 2 722's That adds $12 to the Price.
Now add $10 to your D* bill as well for your 2 other receivers.
There is no additional receiver fee as well as the fee for 2 DVRs?

There is no additional receiver fee as well as the fee for 2 DVRs?
This is How it goes.
If you Have any DVR atvantage Pack, Turbo,Or Classic.
Your First 625,612,622,722 Has No monthly Fee.
Your Second DVR receiver is $12 includes DVR fee and Addtional receiver fee.
My home System is as Follows

Classic 250 Gold HD DVR. Is $77.99 ( Includes my 622 1 room HD 1 room SD DVRs service and local channels)
Addtional Vip 722k $12( includes DVR and Lease Fee) 1 room HD 1 room SD DVR
Addtional Vip 211k $7 1 room HD
Protection plan $6
HBO $11
KTLA $1.50
$115.49

Directv The same setup would be
$75.99 for HD/DVR pack
$20 for 4 Addtional receivers
$15 for HBO
$6 for Protection Plan
$116.99

$1.50 less for you particular setup with Dish than with Direct and you do not get KTLA with Direct. (BTW, I would get KTLA in HD with both since I am from LA :p)

$1.50 less for you particular setup with Dish than with Direct and you do not get KTLA with Direct. (BTW, I would get KTLA in HD with both since I am from LA :p) My Wife Loves KTLA, Thats Why I have it.:)

Directv The same setup would be
$75.99 for HD/DVR pack
$20 for 4 Addtional receivers
$15 for HBO
$6 for Protection Plan
$116.99

The Dish numbers work as long as you don't mind having SD TV2 output on HD TV's, I don't have any SD TV's in the house anymore. As soon as you want HD receivers/HD DVR's the Dish TV2 price advantage goes out the window.

The Dish numbers work as long as you don't mind having SD TV2 output on HD TV's, I don't have any SD TV's in the house anymore. As soon as you want HD receivers/HD DVR's the Dish TV2 price advantage goes out the window. They work for me since most people including myself don't have 5 HD tv's. I have 3 HD tv's I bet most people don't even have that many.
Plus I don't feel like Giving D* $800 Plus dollars to lease 5 HD DVRs Or $400 + to lease 3 HD DVRs.

They work for me since most people including myself don't have 5 HD tv's. I have 3 HD tv's I bet most people don't even have that many.
Plus I don't feel like Giving D* $800 Plus dollars to lease 5 HD DVRs Or $400 + to lease 3 HD DVRs.

Yea, with 6 HD sets I'm special;) But as time goes on more and more folks will have more HD sets in their homes requiring HD STB's.

And I didn't spend $800 or $400 either, DirecTV does deals just like Dish does if they feel you're worth it.

Yea, with 6 HD sets I'm special;) But as time goes on more and more folks will have more HD sets in their homes requiring HD STB's.

And I didn't spend $800 or $400 either, DirecTV does deals just like Dish does if they feel you're worth it. But we already all agree if your looking for a budget, Your not going to have 5 room systems with HD DVR
This topic is about a guy trying to keep his bill lower then $60 per month. Face it your going to get more with E* under that price.:p
2 rooms top 200 with DVR and Locals $57.99 With E*
D* 2 rooms with Choice and DVR is $66 per month.

Yes you keep adding equipment and D* pulls ahead.
But thats not the topic of this Thread.
What Package can you get with D* for Under $56 even though thats still out of the OP price range.

Yea, with 6 HD sets I'm special;) But as time goes on more and more folks will have more HD sets in their homes requiring HD STB's.
. Really? So I can get 6 HD DVRs for How much Upfront? First 4 are free right?:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

This is How it goes.
If you Have any DVR atvantage Pack, Turbo,Or Classic.
Your First 625,612,622,722 Has No monthly Fee.
Your Second DVR receiver is $12 includes DVR fee and Addtional receiver fee.
My home System is as Follows

Classic 250 Gold HD DVR. Is $77.99 ( Includes my 622 1 room HD 1 room SD DVRs service and local channels)
Addtional Vip 722k $12( includes DVR and Lease Fee) 1 room HD 1 room SD DVR
Addtional Vip 211k $7 1 room HD
Protection plan $6
HBO $11
KTLA $1.50
$115.49


Directv The same setup would be
$75.99 for HD/DVR pack
$20 for 4 Addtional receivers
$15 for HBO
$6 for Protection Plan
$116.99


But we already all agree if your looking for a budget, Your not going to have 5 room systems with HD DVR
This topic is about a guy trying to keep his bill lower then $60 per month. Face it your going to get more with E* under that price.:p
2 rooms top 200 with DVR and Locals $57.99 With E*
D* 2 rooms with Choice and DVR is $66 per month.

Yes you keep adding equipment and D* pulls ahead.
But thats not the topic of this Thread.

You and DK were also posting responses that didn't address the OP's request, just trying to bring up alternative discussion on those responses to show that E* is not always the low cost provider depending on your needs.

Really? So I can get 6 HD DVRs for How much Upfront? First 4 are free right?:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

Did I say you could, I just said I didn't pay the amounts you quoted. Can you get 4 HD DVR's for free at once from Dish?!sadroll

But as time goes on more and more folks will have more HD sets in their homes requiring HD STB's.

. By the time the average household has 5 or 6 HD tv's D* and E* prices will be completely different then they are now. So this doesn't really matter.

You and DK were also posting responses that didn't address the OP's request, just trying to bring up alternative discussion on those responses to show that E* is not always the low cost provider depending on your needs. I answered Dodgers Question. Thats that!
If you would have read any or all of my posts you would see I addressed the OP questions way back before some of the usual False info surfaced that mearly needed to be cleaned up.

Did I say you could, I just said I didn't pay the amounts you quoted. Can you get 4 HD DVR's for free at once from Dish?!sadroll How much to get 4 HD DVR's from D* then?
Lets see 1 for free, and 3 others for $199 Each Ok thats $397.
I'm not impling E* is giving free HD DVRs, They aren't!
But they are much less then D* is charging to lease , for New and Exsisting customers.

Yea, with 6 HD sets I'm special;) But as time goes on more and more folks will have more HD sets in their homes requiring HD STB's.

And I didn't spend $800 or $400 either, DirecTV does deals just like Dish does if they feel you're worth it.

i only have 2 HD sets :D whooopeee!!

Really? So I can get 6 HD DVRs for How much Upfront? First 4 are free right?:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

you don't have to type the words rol eyes. we know you're rolling them :D:D

here are some roll eyes the both of you can use :p

here ya go: http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2005.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2005.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2003.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2003.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2002.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2002.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/1998.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/1998.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2210.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2210.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2209.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2209.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2015.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2015.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2013.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2013.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2014.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2014.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/1996.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/1996.html)

Well...if you need multiple DVRs, D* usually has the better deals...but not the better DVRs...go figure...

here are some roll eyes the both of you can use :p

here ya go: http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2005.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2005.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2003.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2003.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2002.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2002.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/1998.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/1998.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2210.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2210.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2209.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2209.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2015.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2015.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2013.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2013.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/2014.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/2014.html)http://www.clipartof.com/images/thumbnail/1996.gif (http://www.clipartof.com/details/emoticon/1996.html)
Lol, good to see some humor:up

Well...if you need multiple DVRs, D* usually has the better deals...but not the better DVRs...go figure...

yeah that's the only thing i do miss about E. The best Dvr's around for sure! I miss my Vip 622

Lol, good to see some humor:up
:)

I decided to compare my current package to a comparable Dish package. I believe my package is more in line with what the average HD sub pays. I got the Dish info off of their website so I may be off.

250+ channels, 2 DVRs, HD access, locals, and HD extra

For me with D*:

$58 for Total Choice Plus (200+ channels)
$6.00 for DVR service (both DVRs on the account)
$10.00 for HD
$5.00 for HD extra (the HD only channels)
$5.00 for the additional receiver
locals included (8 locals in HD and 2 FULL-TIME RSNs)

Total = $84
I basically have the same setup with Dish Network and pay $41.

According to me, my price is:

$29.99 HD Absolute (?? channels, see below for what I don't get)
$5 for locals (All mine in HD)
$6 for DVR service (2 Tuners DVR'd + OTA DVR)
$0 for 2nd Tuner/Remote/TV Setup

Total = $41

This includes all the National HD Dish offers except for: Fox, Fox Business, FX, Speed, VH1, MTV, Nick, Encore, BET. Glad I signed up with Dish when I did - it was the best deal around (probably ever for HD). I only watch HD and I wish there were better options for HD. And if I dropped the Locals, which I can get OTA - then I'd be at $36. So when I was on a budget (getting back to the OP), this was a no-brainer for so much HD. If you can live with OTA HD instead of satellite provided HD, then the comparison is saving 57% off of DirecTV's price for the most similar package I could get.

I basically have the same setup with Dish Network and pay $41.

According to me, my price is:

$29.99 HD Absolute (?? channels, see below for what I don't get)
$5 for locals (All mine in HD)
$6 for DVR service (2 Tuners DVR'd + OTA DVR)
$0 for 2nd Tuner/Remote/TV Setup

Total = $41

This includes all the National HD Dish offers except for: Fox, Fox Business, FX, Speed, VH1, MTV, Nick, Encore, BET. Glad I signed up with Dish when I did - it was the best deal around (probably ever for HD). I only watch HD and I wish there were better options for HD. And if I dropped the Locals, which I can get OTA - then I'd be at $36. So when I was on a budget (getting back to the OP), this was a no-brainer for so much HD. If you can live with OTA HD instead of satellite provided HD, then the comparison is saving 57% off of DirecTV's price for the most similar package I could get.
I have 2 DVRs so that would be an extra $6, correct?

Do they still offer the HD absolute package?

I do agree, like I said in prior posts, for budget packages, Dish beats Direct hands down.

I have 2 DVRs so that would be an extra $6, correct?

Do they still offer the HD absolute package?

I do agree, like I said in prior posts, for budget packages, Dish beats Direct hands down.
Functionally it's the same for 2 DVR's on both providers and there isn't an extra $6 cost for me. There are suttle differences - but good enough for comparing. With D* you have a 2nd receiver, with E* you have 1 receiver but can share the recordings between both TV's (an advantage at my home.). If you want a 2nd receiver, which you don't need to have 2 TV's on DVR, then you'd pay more ($6, I think). I'd wouldn't pay $84 for the same thing with E* or with D* (one income family with soon to be 5 members).

Absolute HD stopped being offered to new subs around September 2008. It was good timing for me.

In my case, my main interest was getting certain HD channels, a DVR and the best technology I could find when researching. It was a no-brainer when the price came in at $36/month after the promotion. Then I added the locals just because I liked the ease of recording with the guide - even though I use the OTA locals more than the sat provided locals.

Functionally it's the same for 2 DVR's on both providers and there isn't an extra $6 cost for me. There are suttle differences - but good enough for comparing. With D* you have a 2nd receiver, with E* you have 1 receiver but can share the recordings between both TV's (an advantage at my home.). If you want a 2nd receiver, which you don't need to have 2 TV's on DVR, then you'd pay more ($6, I think). I'd wouldn't pay $84 for the same thing with E* or with D* (one income family with soon to be 5 members).
I know about the 2 TVs with one receiver, but one must be SD. If you want 2 HD DVRs, then you must get an additional DVR.


Absolute HD stopped being offered to new subs around September 2008. It was good timing for me.
That bites


In my case, my main interest was getting certain HD channels, a DVR and the best technology I could find when researching. It was a no-brainer when the price came in at $36/month after the promotion. Then I added the locals just because I liked the ease of recording with the guide - even though I use the OTA locals more than the sat provided locals.
It basically comes down to what is the best option for the sub.

I basically have the same setup with Dish Network and pay $41.

According to me, my price is:

$29.99 HD Absolute (?? channels, see below for what I don't get)
$5 for locals (All mine in HD)
$6 for DVR service (2 Tuners DVR'd + OTA DVR)
$0 for 2nd Tuner/Remote/TV Setup

Total = $41

This includes all the National HD Dish offers except for: Fox, Fox Business, FX, Speed, VH1, MTV, Nick, Encore, BET. Glad I signed up with Dish when I did - it was the best deal around (probably ever for HD). I only watch HD and I wish there were better options for HD. And if I dropped the Locals, which I can get OTA - then I'd be at $36. So when I was on a budget (getting back to the OP), this was a no-brainer for so much HD. If you can live with OTA HD instead of satellite provided HD, then the comparison is saving 57% off of DirecTV's price for the most similar package I could get.

You can't compare a package that is no longer offered.

You can't compare a package that is no longer offered.
I just did. :confused:

I know about the 2 TVs with one receiver, but one must be SD. If you want 2 HD DVRs, then you must get an additional DVR.

Actually you can output the same HD signal to both HDTV's simultaneously (HDMI and Component). And I have two independently working HD tuners tha can playback simultaneously. I didn't need a 2nd physical receiver since the 1 does all I could want.

I just did. :confused:

So, your comparison is meaningless then. Since nobody can get it now.

Actually you can output the same HD signal to both HDTV's simultaneously (HDMI and Component). And I have two independently working HD tuners tha can playback simultaneously. I didn't need a 2nd physical receiver since the 1 does all I could want.
You can do the same with Direct as well. But we are getting way off the issue. For new subs looking at package offerings on a budget, Dish has more to offer for low end priced package with a decent channel lineup. Once potential subs start going to the higher packages (with the exception of the everything package) and start adding equipment, Direct becomes the better choice (then we are no longer talking about sat on a budget)

Here is a breakdown of packages on Dishnetwork. Some have mentioned its hard to find there packages, I would not call this hidden, but it does take a bit of looking at there site. Just FYI

DISH Network - America's Top Packages Plus Turbo HD Programming - 1.888.825.2557 (http://www.dishnetwork.com/turbohd/thd_AT_and_THD_programming/default.aspx)

I see that this does not include the family package. They also have a bronze+ this inlcudes local

RSNhttp://www.dishnetwork.com/downloads/pdf/whats_on_dish/programming_guides/OnlineChannelLineUp.pdf

The above link does not have the recent new HD aditions, I have alot of time on my hand today....at jury duty, in the jury room!!

Here is a breakdown of packages on Dishnetwork. Some have mentioned its hard to find there packages, I would not call this hidden, but it does take a bit of looking at there site. Just FYI

DISH Network - America's Top Packages Plus Turbo HD Programming - 1.888.825.2557 (http://www.dishnetwork.com/turbohd/thd_AT_and_THD_programming/default.aspx)

I see that this does not include the family package. They also have a bronze+ this inlcudes local RSN
Gold $60
HD $10
HD Platinum $10
Locals $5

Total (without any additional equipment) = $85 (comparable to Total Choice plus with HD and HD extra for $73).

This is already more than what I am paying with Direct and it does not even include DVR service and additional receivers

Gold $60
HD $10
HD Platinum $10
Locals $5

Total (without any additional equipment) = $85 (comparable to Total Choice plus with HD and HD extra for $73).

This is already more than what I am paying with Direct and it does not even include DVR service and additional receivers

My past package with Direct was about 78.00, that included total choice plus and HD pack with two HDDVR TV's I did not have the 5.00 HD extra pack

Currently with Dish I have Two HDDVR's with one SD hookup with 250 and gold HD for about 84 or so, once the promo is over. I have the whole promo thing going on with free paltimum, but dont think I will keep it once its over.

Now without getting into who has what. I do have ESPNU wich right now is part of the sports pack on Direct, though I would think that would change soon

My past package with Direct was about 78.00, that included total choice plus and HD pack with two HDDVR TV's I did not have the 5.00 HD extra pack

Currently with Dish I have Two HDDVR's with one SD hookup with 250 and gold HD for about 84 or so, once the promo is over. I have the whole promo thing going on with free paltimum, but dont think I will keep it once its over.

Now without getting into who has what. I do have ESPNU wich right now is part of the sports pack on Direct, though I would think that would change soon
Yep... ESPNU is moving out of the sports pack.

So, your comparison is meaningless then. Since nobody can get it now.Meaningless to you, but there are plenty of ways to find meaning for it. You obviously don't want to nor care to - so I won't get into the details. :(

Meaningless to you, but there are plenty of ways to find meaning for it. You obviously don't want to nor care to - so I won't get into the details. :(

So, where can I sign up for it?

You can do the same with Direct as well. But we are getting way off the issue. For new subs looking at package offerings on a budget, Dish has more to offer for low end priced package with a decent channel lineup. Once potential subs start going to the higher packages (with the exception of the everything package) and start adding equipment, Direct becomes the better choice (then we are no longer talking about sat on a budget)I would think that 1 receiver outputting to 2 HDTV's is fitting with a budget choice. So if both companies can do that, then it's a wash for that feature.

I made a list of channels I wanted in HD and then found which provider offered the lower price which included at least the ones I wanted.

I made the initial comparison reply here to say that even with the 'higher' package you have, I found a way to still save money and fall into the 'budget' pricing.