I think if E* was owned, collectively, by SatelliteGuys, a la carte would become the order of the day. Sure, packages would also be available. But if XM/Sirius can do it, "Pick 50 for $6.99" or "Pick 100 for $14.99" then surely E* could offer "Pick 50 for $25" or "Pick 100 for $60"
(More than likely, a basic-basic package consisting of *ALL* ESPNs, America's Top Shopping Channels, Local channels (if available) and Public Interest Channels would be required, but then everything else could likely be done a la carte. Of course, existing premiums could not be a la carte selections, but everything else in AT250 would be fair game (incl. TMC xtra, Encores, etc.). Bonus points if former SA* TPs were dedicated to offering a group of Christian channels that could be chosen as a la carte by subs with a 61.5 dish. Alternatively, offer Christian or other PI programmers a reduced rate to lease channels at 61.5 that would be available to any sub to any package.)