This makes all providers on an unequal footing and not true or complete competition to each other as no provider can or will offer all these services at my residence, so If I want particular programing I have to accept one companies lack of services to get access to others I can't do without.
Until Directv started their pissing match with Vs, they were the only option for subs in NY State (especially the Buffalo NY area), if they wanted the NFL Network, Yes Network, VS and the Buffalo Sabres Games on MSG-HD.
Now unfortunately because these headstrong companies and their take it or leave it attitude and the fact they worry more profits than their subs; you are forced to make concessions on what you want view, as these companies annually raise their fees due to "transmission agreements".
I left Dish not because I wanted too, but because I had no other option in order to see the Buffalo Sabres and Yankees in HD. Yes, TWC gave me a real teaser rate for two years, however I would have much rather paid the $25 a month I am saving during this two year "teaser rate" period, and stayed with Dish providing they could have provided the programing I needed.
BTW, I was a $100 a month sub, whom also subbed to the NHLCI Package for five years while with Dish.