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TheForce
Supporting Founder Pub Member / Supporter
Last reply · posted in Video Game Reviews & Discussions
I am considering getting a gaming system for the Home Theater. I never have been into games before but thought the latest offerings in these two with bluRay and HD DVD as well might be a nice programming alternative to movies. I already have HD DVD and BluRay players but no HTPC or other game box.

Are most games made for both PS3 and XBOX 360 or are they exclusive to the format?
80 Replies · 7071 views
TheForce
Still quite new so pardon the ignorance on my part.

I took a look at CC and BB today and found few PS3 systems, none with 80G package. I saw a driver's wheel and pedals for both PS3 and XBOX 360 so these are available.

Here's my thinking and tell me if it is a bad idea-

Both stores told me the newest PS3 system I saw on the web site won't be out until June or so. Today, I can get the XBOX 360 with a cheapo HD DVD drive $49 that is supposed to play many of the troubled DVD's, like Bourne Ultimatum ( I can't play on my A30)
So if I get started now with XBOX 360 and buy from a local BB with return policy it would be the way to go to get started. If I am happy, I stop there and have a solution to my A30 bug troubles. (I'm not worried about HD DVD demise right now)
Then in June or July, if the gamer obsession gets me, I'll spring for the PS3 system that is state of the art.
I'm thinking about $1000 budget for 2 systems and some accessories.

Don and others- I see some of you have multiple systems, like 2 XBOX's why would anyone want or desire 2 or more of the same thing? Multiple rooms?


Earlier, I sort of lied about games. I do have a couple on my cell phone I play when I have a few minutes time to kill. Celeris, Pool, a pinball machine, and PacMan :) So computer games are not totally new to me.


I see I can get a BlockBuster membership like my Movie Pass that is a flat rate per month. Is this realistic? I would think it is a good thing to sample many games before you buy. Unlike Movies, Games are better the more you play them, right? So the Game Pass is really only good for sampling at a lower price.
yourbeliefs
Still quite new so pardon the ignorance on my part.

I took a look at CC and BB today and found few PS3 systems, none with 80G package. I saw a driver's wheel and pedals for both PS3 and XBOX 360 so these are available.

Here's my thinking and tell me if it is a bad idea-

Both stores told me the newest PS3 system I saw on the web site won't be out until June or so. Today, I can get the XBOX 360 with a cheapo HD DVD drive $49 that is supposed to play many of the troubled DVD's, like Bourne Ultimatum ( I can't play on my A30)
So if I get started now with XBOX 360 and buy from a local BB with return policy it would be the way to go to get started. If I am happy, I stop there and have a solution to my A30 bug troubles. (I'm not worried about HD DVD demise right now)
Then in June or July, if the gamer obsession gets me, I'll spring for the PS3 system that is state of the art.
I'm thinking about $1000 budget for 2 systems and some accessories.

Don and others- I see some of you have multiple systems, like 2 XBOX's why would anyone want or desire 2 or more of the same thing? Multiple rooms?


Earlier, I sort of lied about games. I do have a couple on my cell phone I play when I have a few minutes time to kill. Celeris, Pool, a pinball machine, and PacMan :) So computer games are not totally new to me.


I see I can get a BlockBuster membership like my Movie Pass that is a flat rate per month. Is this realistic? I would think it is a good thing to sample many games before you buy. Unlike Movies, Games are better the more you play them, right? So the Game Pass is really only good for sampling at a lower price.

The 80 GB package does not exist. The 60GB was also eliminated a while back (trust me early adopters were THRILLED after spending that $599 for that gem.)

If you plan on using the 360 with a lot of downloadable content you really should get the Elite. The 120 GBs are very handy for games and demos and movies. Its either that or a 20 GB, and considering a standard HD movie can fill up around 3 GB, space will fill up rather quickly. Then again if you don't plan on downloading or using the marketplace much then the standard 360 will do fine. Course you could just get the Arcade package with the 512 MB card.

It is not THAT uncommon to have multiple systems. I personally would really like to have another 360 so that I could mod it and customize and play backup games with it. Its not much different than having more than one computer. You have one that you use for your standard stuff, and another you just play with and modify and experiment with. Also if you have a lot of friends who come over, sometimes a networked 360 setup is good for multiplayer (LAN parties anyone?) I would not modify my Elite that I have now because I don't want to get banned from LIVE and given the high problem rate for 360s my box would not have a valid warranty if modded.

As far as games go, I don't know much about the Blockbuster Game Pass, but I use Gamefly myself. It's basically Netflix for video games. The prices are slightly cheaper for Gamefly, but there is the issue of turnaround time for games. I live in CT and the nearest distributor is in Pennsylvania, so the time between when they get the disc and I get a new one is usually around 4 days. If you live close to CA, FL, or PA you will likely get it quicker. Of course if you live next door to a blockbuster or price is not an issue then that may be the better choice.

Also you should not just view the Game Pass/Gamefly plans just for playing as many games as possible. You could view it like Netflix or the Movie Pass where you can just keep the movie for as long as you want until you are done with it. Think of it this way: If you buy a game, a new one will cost you $60, and if you get one used the cheapest you will likely get it is for $30 (and that is VERY rare.) If you play a game and then have no more use for it, if you try to sell it you will NOT get a lot of money in return, especially if you go to a Gamestop or something like that. You could always try eBay and things like that, but that pool is so large it may not even be worth it. I use my Gamefly to play through games and then return them. I got Assassin's Creed, and I played it through once and then shipped it back. I did not have much desire to go back and grab all the flags or kill all the special soldier or go through all the conversations, etc etc. I used to have a large number of games, and then when I went to sell them to get new stuff I'd have to sell like 3-5 games to get a good deal on a brand new game. Of course the age of the game you return has a lot to do with it as well, but just remember: If you're done with a game in 1 month that you purchased and then you try and sell it, odds are you will only recoup 30-60% of your cost. One last thing is that, and I don't know if this is true with Game Pass, but with GameFly you can choose to keep the game, like purchase it if you so please (so that you can move on to the next game in your queue), and you get it at a good discount (and more can be applied because the longer you stay a member the more discounts you get) and then they send you the case and the instructions for it.

One thing though: If you do choose to go with Gamefly can you PLEASE let me know so I can get a referral credit? Trust me when I say that it is a very good service.
mwgiii
Great choice Don. I think you will be amazed at all of the things you can watch off XBL Marketplace.
TheForce
Great choice Don. I think you will be amazed at all of the things you can watch off XBL Marketplace.
.


Thanks, but I didn't really make that choice alone. Everyone's help here made, hopefully a wise choice for the first system. Maybe this summer, I'll add the PS3 too.
H
The 80 GB package does not exist. The 60GB was also eliminated a while back (trust me early adopters were THRILLED after spending that $599 for that gem.)

bought it the day it came out and i would do it again...still the best ps3 imo
shanewalker
Both!!!

.


Thanks, but I didn't really make that choice alone. Everyone's help here made, hopefully a wise choice for the first system. Maybe this summer, I'll add the PS3 too.

I'd recommend that course of action, Don, if you can.

As a pleased owner of both systems, I can vouch that they both have significant strengths over the other in very defined areas and, in fact, compliment each other quite well. I love them both for different reasons.

XBOX--Upsides: strong library of testosterone titles; XBox Live/Marketplace is fantastic (from online multiplayer to HD downloads, unparalleled); streaming media from both Windows and iTunes is slick. Downsides: weak 'range' in gaming compared to PS, imho; no built-in HDMI and, for now, only HD-DVD available as disc playthrough format; small and outrageously overpriced HDD system; noisy and runs hot; not the most reliable.

PS3--Upsides: well-deigned, runs quiet and cool; hard drive space is cavernous and easy to upgrade by comparison to others; HDMI and upgradable through software to advanced Blu-ray profiles as they release; if you get the 60/80GB you get access to lots of great PS2 content; very broad range of keystone games/gamestyles (from stellar platformers to shooters and RPGs etc); uh, I did mention, Blu-ray, right?; and the online services are free. The BIG pluses via online aren't even here yet--Home and Little Big Planet are going to be fantastic, just you wait and see.

In Summary--So, as an A/V enthusiast, I get great rental solutions with the XBOX and great disc playback w/ the PS3. As a gamer, I get the paragon of online and hardcore w/ the XBOX and the broadest range of gameplay with the PS3 (with the future holding some significant online treats in store for the PS3 as well).

Like you, Don, I bought into the XBOX 360 first, then a while later got the PS3. Aside from my 360 dying a month in (which, I'll admit, gave me pause--I'm not used to such in my well-researched car/computer/AV purchases), I haven't regretted either purchase at all.
akodoreign
I'd recommend that course of action, Don, if you can.

As a pleased owner of both systems, I can vouch that they both have significant strengths over the other in very defined areas and, in fact, compliment each other quite well. I love them both for different reasons.

XBOX--Upsides: strong library of testosterone titles; XBox Live/Marketplace is fantastic (from online multiplayer to HD downloads, unparalleled); streaming media from both Windows and iTunes is slick. Downsides: weak 'range' in gaming compared to PS, imho; no built-in HDMI and, for now, only HD-DVD available as disc playthrough format; small and outrageously overpriced HDD system; noisy and runs hot; not the most reliable.

PS3--Upsides: well-deigned, runs quiet and cool; hard drive space is cavernous and easy to upgrade by comparison to others; HDMI and upgradable through software to advanced Blu-ray profiles as they release; if you get the 60/80GB you get access to lots of great PS2 content; very broad range of keystone games/gamestyles (from stellar platformers to shooters and RPGs etc); uh, I did mention, Blu-ray, right?; and the online services are free. The BIG pluses via online aren't even here yet--Home and Little Big Planet are going to be fantastic, just you wait and see.

In Summary--So, as an A/V enthusiast, I get great rental solutions with the XBOX and great disc playback w/ the PS3. As a gamer, I get the paragon of online and hardcore w/ the XBOX and the broadest range of gameplay with the PS3 (with the future holding some significant online treats in store for the PS3 as well).

Like you, Don, I bought into the XBOX 360 first, then a while later got the PS3. Aside from my 360 dying a month in (which, I'll admit, gave me pause--I'm not used to such in my well-researched car/computer/AV purchases), I haven't regretted either purchase at all.

All models of produced 360s now have Built in HDMI.

Just a heads up. My arcade unit (being used to replace my broken launch pro) and my Elite both have HDMI. :D
TheForce
As the OP, I'd have to admit I don't know enough about gaming with these things to know what to complain about yet. So, keep the debates rolling, just be accurate. I still plan to do the PS3 later. Not sure when. For now, my Samsung BD1400 works fine for blue ray disks and I now have so many games to try and so little time, I may be satisfied for quite a few months with the 360. I did pay extra for the exchange warranty as you guys recommended I do so I'm not too worried about the failure rate.

Couple questions, though- Doesn't the 360 use Blue Tooth too?

Wifi is nice but my equipment rack has a wired switch so I really didn't need it.

I'm curious about the Blue Ray player option for the 360 that is rumored in the works. We will probably hear more about that at CES2009. :)


FYI- the vibration feedback works on the steering wheel too, in case you all didn't know that.
IcEWoLF
As the OP, I'd have to admit I don't know enough about gaming with these things to know what to complain about yet. So, keep the debates rolling, just be accurate. I still plan to do the PS3 later. Not sure when. For now, my Samsung BD1400 works fine for blue ray disks and I now have so many games to try and so little time, I may be satisfied for quite a few months with the 360. I did pay extra for the exchange warranty as you guys recommended I do so I'm not too worried about the failure rate.

Couple questions, though- Doesn't the 360 use Blue Tooth too?

Wifi is nice but my equipment rack has a wired switch so I really didn't need it.

I'm curious about the Blue Ray player option for the 360 that is rumored in the works. We will probably hear more about that at CES2009. :)


FYI- the vibration feedback works on the steering wheel too, in case you all didn't know that.

I thought M$ denied the rumors about blu-ray addon.
akodoreign
I thought M$ denied the rumors about blu-ray addon.

They denied the existence of the elite SKU for 6 months. They had photo's of the black Cases being manufactured, And MS still denied it.

LOL, just one of those things. :o
shanewalker
All models of produced 360s now have Built in HDMI.

Just a heads up. My arcade unit (being used to replace my broken launch pro) and my Elite both have HDMI. :D

Gotcha. Didn't know they'd made that move...Microsoft was very adamant for so long that HDMI wasn't 'necessary for a robust HD experience' that I'm actually surprised they moved the feature into the full lineup (figured it would remain Elite-only). Good to know though.

My replacement 360 will hopefully last me full through this generation--I don't see the merit of upgrading for a port config, esp. when the downloaded HD isn't full rez and HD-DVD is a dead format now. Still looks good, its just not 'the best it can be.'
meStevo
Gotcha. Didn't know they'd made that move...Microsoft was very adamant for so long that HDMI wasn't 'necessary for a robust HD experience' that I'm actually surprised they moved the feature into the full lineup (figured it would remain Elite-only). Good to know though.

My replacement 360 will hopefully last me full through this generation--I don't see the merit of upgrading for a port config, esp. when the downloaded HD isn't full rez and HD-DVD is a dead format now. Still looks good, its just not 'the best it can be.'

I agree. The lack of a PC/VGA/DVI connection/port on a HDTV is more of a sign of a lower end HDTV rather than the sign of them fazing out the input and should be the case for quite some time.
yourbeliefs
bought it the day it came out and i would do it again...still the best ps3 imo
I think that title may be lost once this edition comes out (which will be the one I shall get.)
TheForce
PS3 with Profile 2.0. Yes, that was my final plan. I felt the XBOX 360 with the HD DVD player was a smart move before those $49 drives with King Kong Disk all dried up was the best option for a first system and then get the PS3 when the upgrades are complete. Presently, I'm enjoying the xbox now.
Bruce
Supporting Founder Lifetime Supporter
Last reply · posted in DIRECTV General Forum
Thanks to Fitch Ratings ( who gives the ratings on Credit and debt, as approved by the SEC, so they have accurate numbers) we have the totals.

DIRECTV's video subscriber base is the third-largest traditional multi-channel video programming distributor (MVPD) in the U.S. with about 8.2 million subscribers at the end of 1Q26.

The last time it was reported, it was 8.8M at the end of 2Q25, so only a 600,000 loss for 3 quarters, which is a major improvement, since for many years before that, it was losing 500,000 a quarter, 2 Million a year.

It is now losing less than Dish/Sling combined, I believe the Genre Packs are helping to retain and get subscribers.

6 Replies · 372 views
raoul5788
They have one less as of May 15th. I just couldn't justify almost $150 a month any more. I went to Fubo. Edit: And I've been a Directv customer for 30 years!
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b4pjoe
They have one less as of May 15th. I just couldn't justify almost $150 a month any more. I went to Fubo.
Fubo would be a non starter for me. Missing channels:
  • NBCUniversal Channels: NBC local affiliates, USA Network, Bravo, CNBC, MSNBC, E!, Syfy, Telemundo, and the Golf Channel.
  • NBC Sports: Regional sports networks like NBC Sports Bay Area, Boston, California, and Philadelphia are also off the air.
  • Warner Bros. Discovery Channels: TBS, TNT, TruTV, CNN, Discovery Channel, TLC, HGTV, Food Network, and Animal Planet.
  • A&E Networks: A&E, History, Lifetime, and Vice.
  • AMC Networks: AMC, IFC, SundanceTV, and WE tv
Plus most of its live TV channels and sports broadcasts are currently delivered in 720p.
Jimbo
Fubo would be a non starter for me. Missing channels:
  • NBCUniversal Channels: NBC local affiliates, USA Network, Bravo, CNBC, MSNBC, E!, Syfy, Telemundo, and the Golf Channel.
  • NBC Sports: Regional sports networks like NBC Sports Bay Area, Boston, California, and Philadelphia are also off the air.
  • Warner Bros. Discovery Channels: TBS, TNT, TruTV, CNN, Discovery Channel, TLC, HGTV, Food Network, and Animal Planet.
  • A&E Networks: A&E, History, Lifetime, and Vice.
  • AMC Networks: AMC, IFC, SundanceTV, and WE tv
Plus most of its live TV channels and sports broadcasts are currently delivered in 720p.
YouTube TV
raoul5788
Fubo would be a non starter for me. Missing channels:
  • NBCUniversal Channels: NBC local affiliates, USA Network, Bravo, CNBC, MSNBC, E!, Syfy, Telemundo, and the Golf Channel.
  • NBC Sports: Regional sports networks like NBC Sports Bay Area, Boston, California, and Philadelphia are also off the air.
  • Warner Bros. Discovery Channels: TBS, TNT, TruTV, CNN, Discovery Channel, TLC, HGTV, Food Network, and Animal Planet.
  • A&E Networks: A&E, History, Lifetime, and Vice.
  • AMC Networks: AMC, IFC, SundanceTV, and WE tv
Plus most of its live TV channels and sports broadcasts are currently delivered in 720p.
Understandable. It's always a choice of price vs channels. The $60/month difference made my choice easier.
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A
YouTube TV
YTTV don't carry the Regional sports channels
D
YTTV don't carry the Regional sports channels
It does still carry the NBC Sports branded RSN's, but obviously in those limited markets...
S
Last reply · posted in DIRECTV General Forum
Recently came back to DirectTV Satellite service and have two boxes, Gemini and a main HR54.

DirecTV is charging me two "TV access fees" of $10 each, but can only watch TV on the one without the server. Is there anything I can do to fix this?
24 Replies · 945 views
FHSPSU67
First receiver should be free. It is for me.
b4pjoe
First receiver should be free. It is for me.
It is for me too. Back when they merged DIRECTV via Internet and DIRECTV Stream into one service they raised the TV access fee from $7.00 to $10.00 from both streaming and satellite and they eliminated the first receiver free for new customers only. Existing customers weren't affected by the new price and the elimination of the first receiver free policy.
S
It is for me too. Back when they merged DIRECTV via Internet and DIRECTV Stream into one service they raised the TV access fee from $7.00 to $10.00 from both streaming and satellite and they eliminated the first receiver free for new customers only. Existing customers weren't affected by the new price and the elimination of the first receiver free policy.
All of this makes me want to cancel satellite again! Customer service said we were getting billed for an old receiver but the call got cut off.

Will call back and try to get this resolved. As of now, only one TV can access satellite service. Would hope they can send another Gemini to be co-located w the main HR54.
S
Update: after 20 mins on phone with a non North American call center agent, they are sending a tech out. The tech support couldn't understand that the HR54 was at a different TV than the Gemini.
A
Update: after 20 mins on phone with a non North American call center agent, they are sending a tech out. The tech support couldn't understand that the HR54 was at a different TV than the Gemini.
this is why we canceled support and the csr's are garbage even the american ones. it's still under the att system!!!
Scott Greczkowski
Staff member HERE TO HELP YOU! Cutting Edge
Last reply · posted in The Chit Chat Club
Sometimes a thread gets so many posts in it that is can cause issues for the server so that why today we introduce The Song Name Game Part 3!

So let the game continue!

The last song was added by Bobby who posted...

One Meat Ball - Andrews Sisters

CONTINUE ON AND HAVE FUN! WELCOME HOME TO SATELLITEGUYS.US!

Here are the original rules for the game as posted by WebbyDude back in 2006. http://www.satelliteguys.us/threads/68645-Song-Name-Game

Just name a song title and the band who performed it. The next person does the same thing, but needs to list a song title or band name which includes a word from the previous entry. Pick songs from any genre.

Example:

Long Live Rock and Roll -- Rainbow

Rainbow in the Dark -- Dio

Another example:

Ride the Lightning -- Metallica

Lightning Strikes -- Ozzy Osbourne


Get it?


An additional note: we all know that song titles, sometimes, use profane words. Because this is a family friendly website it is advised that you clean up that title up a bit. This is accomplished by using something like sh!t instead of the real word. Thanks....
67110 Replies · 2662386 views
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Bobby
I Can't Help It (If I'm Still In Love With You) - B.J. Thomas
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long_time_DNC
Help Is On Its Way - Little River Band
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sdfntx
Little Band of Gold - Sonny James
RaiderPower
Band Of Gold - Freda Payne
long_time_DNC
Heart Of Gold - Neil Young
zippyfrog
Pub Member / Supporter Lifetime Supporter
Last reply · posted in The Phone & Tablet Zone
I feel like this was discussed in another thread, but I can't find it. I have T-Mobile and my last iPhone upgrade was in 2020. I want to get a new iPhone, but what is the best way to go about doing it? Should I order the iPhone from T-Mobile directly, or should I buy from the Apple Store? I feel like there are pros/cons to each option.
2 Replies · 36 views
navychop
I know of no reason to buy from a cell company.

Buying from Apple gets an unlocked phone.

PS- New models come out in Octoberish.
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Foxbat
I got a carrier-locked iPhone once, and it was a pain after they got bought by Sprint and I decided to go to T-Mobile and they dragged their feet to unlock the phone. I have been trading in my iPhones since and buying from the Apple Store since then.
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C
Last reply · posted in DISH Network Support Forum
I have a Hopper with Sling. (Don't know exact model.) A couple nights ago, I went into the DVR screen, and noted that it was recording three programs. Yet I was able to view live TV (that was not one of the channels being recorded.) Did something change? In the past, it would only let me watch one of the channels being recorded, or any recording in the DVR menu. Maybe it was streaming, although there was no indication of that?

Apologies if this has been covered; I searched and didn't find anything.

Thanks.
9 Replies · 358 views
C
So I tested.

Started recording three non-network shows and tried to watch live TV, would not do it, because all three tuners were in use.

Started recording two non-network shows and one network show. Still would not let me tune live TV.

Started recording one non-network show and two network shows, then it allowed live TV.

I would assume then that previously I was recording two or three network shows when it allowed live TV; I honestly don't remember what it was doing, and I didn't think to check.

Thanks for replies, everyone.

PS - How does one know whether a program is streaming? Is there a way to force streaming?
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Bobby
So I tested.

Started recording three non-network shows and tried to watch live TV, would not do it, because all three tuners were in use.

Started recording two non-network shows and one network show. Still would not let me tune live TV.

Started recording one non-network show and two network shows, then it allowed live TV.

I would assume then that previously I was recording two or three network shows when it allowed live TV; I honestly don't remember what it was doing, and I didn't think to check.

Thanks for replies, everyone.

PS - How does one know whether a program is streaming? Is there a way to force streaming?
There is no way to force streaming. It is a satellite channel or streaming channel except for the rare occasion that the satellite signal fails. If that happens some, not all, channels will automatically change to streaming. You can tell if the channel is streaming by pressing guide on the remote. if it is a streaming channel the guide will clearly show it that way.
navychop
Cough, cough, Hopper3!
C
There is no way to force streaming. It is a satellite channel or streaming channel except for the rare occasion that the satellite signal fails. If that happens some, not all, channels will automatically change to streaming. You can tell if the channel is streaming by pressing guide on the remote. if it is a streaming channel the guide will clearly show it that way.
Thanks, Bobby.
A
chokes hopper 3 all the way... 16 tuners vs 3 tuners is a night and day difference. along with a faster processor. i would call in and see if they would upgrade me or you can buy a hopper 3 from solid signal.
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Smuuth
Pub Member / Supporter Cutting Edge
Last reply · posted in SatelliteGuys Classifieds

WANTED  DirecTV LCC

Anyone have a DirecTV Local Channel Connector that you'd like to get rid of at a reasonable price? DirecTV is currently in a contract dispute with owner of my local ABC affiliate.
12 Replies · 310 views
b4pjoe
Anyone have a DirecTV Local Channel Connector that you'd like to get rid of at a reasonable price? DirecTV is currently in a contract dispute with owner of my local ABC affiliate.
You should ask DIRECTV for one if you are affected by the dispute. I know in the past they have given them out during a dispute. Not sure if they still do that but it is free to ask.
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Smuuth
You should ask DIRECTV for one if you are affected by the dispute. I know in the past they have given them out during a dispute. Not sure if they still do that but it is free to ask.
I already asked, but the CS agent said they wouldn't do it. They said the only thing they could do is $10/month bill credit.
Jimbo
I already asked, but the CS agent said they wouldn't do it. They said the only thing they could do is $10/month bill credit.
Take the $10 and Call Back ...
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Smuuth
Take the $10 and Call Back ...
I did that. The response was that the LCC is not available. Escalated the issue to a tech support person with the same results. 🤬
  • Wow
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Jimbo
I did that. The response was that the LCC is not available. Escalated the issue to a tech support person with the same results. 🤬
Could be out of them I guess ... I'd keep trying, every 3-4 days.

If they are not out of them as them WHY you can't get one, seeing Your in a Dispute. Thats what they are for.
I would make them give you a real answer, don't let them off the hook.


I had one, and it worked well, but I believe I gave it to another D* friend (also had a AM21), I know I gave them away ...
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Smuuth
Could be out of them I guess ... I'd keep trying, every 3-4 days.

If they are not out of them as them WHY you can't get one, seeing Your in a Dispute. Thats what they are for.
According to the tech support guy, they don't have any in stock. He said I should receive an email when and if they have them. I even told him I would accept a refurbished unit. 🙄
Jimbo
According to the tech support guy, they don't have any in stock. He said I should receive an email when and if they have them. I even told him I would accept a refurbished unit. 🙄
I'm not sure your going to find any Refurbished ones as D* doesn't ask for them back.
Smuuth
I'm not sure your going to find any Refurbished ones as D* doesn't ask for them back.
Yeah, I know. At one point, I even had 3 AM21s but gave them away when I got rid of my last HR54 and switched to the HS17.
A
Good luck they haven't made them in years. you could poke around on ebay and see if there's any on there. if not why not a tablo or a zapper box with an antenna connected to it
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Smuuth
Good luck they haven't made them in years. you could poke around on ebay and see if there's any on there. if not why not a tablo or a zapper box with an antenna connected to it
I have my OTA antenna connected to my television directly already so watching is not the issue. The reason I want the LCC is so I could record programs if I'm not at home to watch them live, especially since ABC is carrying both the NBA and NHL playoffs.
I have an active search on eBay and there is one there but he wants $180 plus shipping and I am not going to pay that.
A
I have my OTA antenna connected to my television directly already so watching is not the issue. The reason I want the LCC is so I could record programs if I'm not at home to watch them live, especially since ABC is carrying both the NBA and NHL playoffs.
I have an active search on eBay and there is one there but he wants $180 plus shipping and I am not going to pay that.
a tablo box is cheaper
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A
why invest in hardware that's going to be boat anchors in a few years?
zippyfrog
Pub Member / Supporter Lifetime Supporter
Last reply · posted in DISH Network Support Forum
Did anyone have a price increase today on their equipment? I own my VIP211k's, and they have been $5.00. My bill that I received last week shows the "add-ons" as being $5.00. However, I just logged into my Dish account, and my "add-ons" are now $10.00. Did the additional receivers go up by $5.00 recently?

As I mentioned, my last bill shows $5.00 and under the notes, nothing is mentioned about a price increase.
11 Replies · 204 views
T
Does cable charge box rent?
R
Does cable charge box rent?
The cable company I was with years ago did charge $9.99 for a receiver.

RJ T.
From Illinois
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R
Did anyone have a price increase today on their equipment? I own my VIP211k's, and they have been $5.00. My bill that I received last week shows the "add-ons" as being $5.00. However, I just logged into my Dish account, and my "add-ons" are now $10.00. Did the additional receivers go up by $5.00 recently?

As I mentioned, my last bill shows $5.00 and under the notes, nothing is mentioned about a price increase.
I went to try to add the Heartland channel as dummy to see what it would do for me as I own my receiver and have DISH Outdoors and this is what mine shows. (Note however I had to take the 2nd receiver I told you I added the other day off because I was told you can only have 1 receiver when you have a one outlet on the Dish Playmaker and was having issues with the 2nd receiver and I didn't know that and that was done yesterday as well so I am back to one receiver.)

Let's upgrade your package.

Your monthly bill will increase by $6.00 per month.

Breakdown

June 11, 2026 - July 11, 2026
You are changing your programming in the middle of the bill cycle. The bill shown below is your bill for next month including prorations and credits. Your following bill will return to the fixed rate. This bill will take effect from now until July 11, 2026.
Monthly Services
$86.99

Flex Pack
$72.99
Local Channels
$14.00
Add-Ons
$68.98

National Action Pack
$12.00
Regional Action Pack
$12.00
News Pack
$10.00
Paramount+ with Showtime
$10.00
Drama and Classics Pack
$6.00
Heartland Pack
$6.00
Starz Encore Movies
$6.00
On DISH Magazine
$4.99
Starz 2 Mo ($11)
$1.99
Prorated Charges
$7.93

Heartland Pack Jun 11 - Jul 20
$7.93
Order Total
$7.93

Prorated Total
$7.93
Due Today
$7.93

Transition Bill Total
$156.10
Proposed Changes

Your monthly bill will increase by $6.00 per month
Monthly Services
$86.99
Add-Ons
$68.98
FCC Regulatory Surcharge
$0.13
Taxes & Surcharges
$0.00

Monthly Total
$156.10
Prorated Total
$7.93
Order Total
$7.93

Due Today
$7.93

Sounds like an issue with DISH Billing

RJ T.
From Illinois

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zippyfrog
I asked again, and the rep I talked to said it is a glitch and that "Access for TV" shouldn't be there - the rep pulled up my future month bills and that charge isn't on it. So I am not going to worry about it right now, but it will be interesting to see when the price changes happen later this year. Will this line item show up? The fact that it is a specific item that is different from anything makes me think it is more than a glitch. But we shall see.
R
I asked again, and the rep I talked to said it is a glitch and that "Access for TV" shouldn't be there - the rep pulled up my future month bills and that charge isn't on it. So I am not going to worry about it right now, but it will be interesting to see when the price changes happen later this year. Will this line item show up? The fact that it is a specific item that is different from anything makes me think it is more than a glitch. But we shall see.
I am hoping they don't add this down the road. Things are expensive the way it is now. Even DIRECTV allows the first receiver free. This would go against DISH and DISH is already loosing subscribers I wouldn't think they would do these kind of tricks but you never know. Always look at your bills for unknow charges. I heard horror stories of people getting charged for things they didn't know were there.

RJ T.
From Illinois
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A
Does cable charge box rent?
yes big cable charges crazy dvr fee's and box rental fee's
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T
Last reply · posted in DISH Network Support Forum
Hello everyone, new guy here. I'm trying to solve problem I'm having with Dish bonus view channels. When I'm watching the bonus view channels then I switch back to regular dish channels, after few minutes the screen flips to black and after 30 seconds flips back to regular channels and continues to flip back and forth until I turn off TV. After I wait 30 minutes and turn back on , I can use regular channels again. So, its after I switch from bonus view channels to regular dish channels the problem starts. Been trying to fix this for a month, but no luck
Here what I've done.
i contacted Dish support and they sent me a new Joey3, but no help. Switched to a different HDMI input on TV, no help. Used different HDMI cable , no help. Used different electrical wall plug, no help.
Finally got a Dish tech to check it. He ran all systems check and was OK. Finally he brought in a small TV and plugged in the HDMI out from the Joey to the small TV. He could not get the problem to occur on his small TV, so the new Joey was working OK. So, then the problem must be myTV. He made some phone calls and came back with the answer that there must be a problem with the analog to digital switch in my TV. Has anyone ever heard of a problem like this, or is it time to be looking for a new TV? My tv LG OLED65C8PUA. TV has been trouble free til now. Thanks
6 Replies · 104 views
HipKat
Hello everyone, new guy here. I'm trying to solve problem I'm having with Dish bonus view channels. When I'm watching the bonus view channels then I switch back to regular dish channels, after few minutes the screen flips to black and after 30 seconds flips back to regular channels and continues to flip back and forth until I turn off TV. After I wait 30 minutes and turn back on , I can use regular channels again. So, its after I switch from bonus view channels to regular dish channels the problem starts. Been trying to fix this for a month, but no luck
Here what I've done.
i contacted Dish support and they sent me a new Joey3, but no help. Switched to a different HDMI input on TV, no help. Used different HDMI cable , no help. Used different electrical wall plug, no help.
Finally got a Dish tech to check it. He ran all systems check and was OK. Finally he brought in a small TV and plugged in the HDMI out from the Joey to the small TV. He could not get the problem to occur on his small TV, so the new Joey was working OK. So, then the problem must be myTV. He made some phone calls and came back with the answer that there must be a problem with the analog to digital switch in my TV. Has anyone ever heard of a problem like this, or is it time to be looking for a new TV? My tv LG OLED65C8PUA. TV has been trouble free til now. Thanks
First off, great TV. I'm torn between the 77C5 or the 77G5.
It sounds like the handshake between the Receiver and the TV is having a problem. Are you using the free cable that came with the Joey or a higher speed HDMI cable?? That's the f irst place I'd look
R
Hello everyone, new guy here. I'm trying to solve problem I'm having with Dish bonus view channels. When I'm watching the bonus view channels then I switch back to regular dish channels, after few minutes the screen flips to black and after 30 seconds flips back to regular channels and continues to flip back and forth until I turn off TV. After I wait 30 minutes and turn back on , I can use regular channels again. So, its after I switch from bonus view channels to regular dish channels the problem starts. Been trying to fix this for a month, but no luck
Here what I've done.
i contacted Dish support and they sent me a new Joey3, but no help. Switched to a different HDMI input on TV, no help. Used different HDMI cable , no help. Used different electrical wall plug, no help.
Finally got a Dish tech to check it. He ran all systems check and was OK. Finally he brought in a small TV and plugged in the HDMI out from the Joey to the small TV. He could not get the problem to occur on his small TV, so the new Joey was working OK. So, then the problem must be myTV. He made some phone calls and came back with the answer that there must be a problem with the analog to digital switch in my TV. Has anyone ever heard of a problem like this, or is it time to be looking for a new TV? My tv LG OLED65C8PUA. TV has been trouble free til now. Thanks
First off, The analog to digital switch, also known as the digital television transition, is the process of converting older analog television broadcasting technology to digital broadcasting. It's used through coaxial cable for the an antenna during the mandatory switch from Analog to Digital on June 12, 2009. You either had to get a converter for your analog (Tube TV) or use a converter box that has the analog or digital tuner or an HDTV which your is and has the tuner built in. Your TV is HD and using an HDMI Cable and nothing is connected by coaxial cable so this wouldn't apply.

In my theory it probably means a new TV. I had a TV go out on my switching between the Smart Screen from the HDMI inputs before because they went faulty. Sometimes electrical surges can cause this. If you have an older home or rent an older home or apartment sometimes the electrical outlets are not grounded and these days HDTV's need a ground which can cause them to malfunction and go bad quicker. Never plug it directly in an outlet. It will damage the TV.

Hope I could be of some assistance.

RJ T.
From Illinois
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T
First off, The analog to digital switch, also known as the digital television transition, is the process of converting older analog television broadcasting technology to digital broadcasting. It's used through coaxial cable for the an antenna during the mandatory switch from Analog to Digital on June 12, 2009. You either had to get a converter for your analog (Tube TV) or use a converter box that has the analog or digital tuner or an HDTV which your is and has the tuner built in. Your TV is HD and using an HDMI Cable and nothing is connected by coaxial cable so this wouldn't apply.

In my theory it probably means a new TV. I had a TV go out on my switching between the Smart Screen from the HDMI inputs before because they went faulty. Sometimes electrical surges can cause this. If you have an older home or rent an older home or apartment sometimes the electrical outlets are not grounded and these days HDTV's need a ground which can cause them to malfunction and go bad quicker. Never plug it directly in an outlet. It will damage the TV.

Hope I could be of some assistance.

RJ T.
From Illinois
Thank you for the information. I do keep the TV plugged into a surge protector, but we have had pretty strong thunderstorms/lightning in the last month so that have contributed to my problem.The house was built in 2009 so everything seems to be grounded correctly. We have had a power surge also. Seems like no one fixes anything any more, so just get a new one or live with the problem. Thanks
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T
First off, great TV. I'm torn between the 77C5 or the 77G5.
It sounds like the handshake between the Receiver and the TV is having a problem. Are you using the free cable that came with the Joey or a higher speed HDMI cable?? That's the f irst place I'd look
I think the HDMI cable is good, i used one of my own from my 4K atmos system, i'll switch it with another just to check. Also I have a bid in at Greentoe for 77" G5. Thanks
HipKat
I think the HDMI cable is good, i used one of my own from my 4K atmos system, i'll switch it with another just to check. Also I have a bid in at Greentoe for 77" G5. Thanks
I hope that works. I'm waiting til Black Friday sales
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Darrell S
I've had this problem with my older Sony TV. It happens when I just punch in a regular channel number. The only way it works right for me is to push guide and select a regular channel from the guide screen.
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teachsac
Staff member HERE TO HELP YOU!
Last reply · posted in TV Shows
House of the Dragon, the prequel to Game of Thrones, premieres on HBO Max on 8/21. I will be warching



View: https://youtu.be/fNwwt25mheo


S~
39 Replies · 5650 views
KAB
KAB
That was as bad as the rest of the show. Jean Smart was mostly invisible.
Jim S.
I prefer the trailer for the movie adaptation of Mario Kart. At least that had Pedro Pascal in it.
harshness
"A new line of unsullied kings" would seem impossible given the GoT definition of "unsullied". :biggrin
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osu1991
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