All these ads from Direct TV saying they have 70 channels of high def and plan to have 100 soon, as me considering a switch.
I've been a big fan of Cox Cable since they came in and took over from Tulsa Cable. They are always very responsive to my phone calls. But, their current small list of HD channels, with what appears to be a small addition of high def channels next week, doesn't compare to the 70-100 offered by Direct TV.
Who has Direct TV? What is the good and bad? Tell me you can still watch tv when it rains.
With my high def tv, I find I mostly watch only high def channels. Having 70-100 to pick from would be nice.
DirecTV wins point for pushing hi-def but many of their channels are merely upconversions of the standard broadcasts, meaning quality is not true HD. Another issue is compression. During fast movement, you may see blocks or jagged edges, and this is from compressing the signals. Too much compression, and it's like watching youtube. There is no FCC regulation on compression and so HD on Dish Network, DirecTV, COX, and broadcast all look different. One of my coworkers uses Directv and loves it, except he says he loses it during storms.
From a technology perspective, cable will win eventually. On demand, HD, and interactive TV are all the future and CableTV and Internet-based TV will winout over wireless anytime. You will always be able to do more on wired mediums that wireless.
Fore reference, here is the 70 channels Directv has:
http://directv.com/DTVAPP/global/contentPageNR.jsp?assetId=P4380112
Cox will be adding some new HD channels on the 20th. http://cox.com/oklahoma/newhd/default.asp
I hope the new ones don't have the horrid trend such as TBS and history of stretch-o-vision
DirecTV is crap. Their highly compressed HD is crap.
Cox doesn't compress as much and as a result their stuff looks a LOT better.
Oh, and try imagining DVR'ing your favorite show with DirecTV during a storm. Can you say pissed off?
I'm too complacent when it comes to technology. HD TV just doesn't have that much cachet with me, all I care about is good signal and good service. Cox pretty much covers that for me. It takes one hell of a storm to knock out my cable.
If Cox would only get access to Direct TV's NFL Sunday ticket, I would never stray again. I went to Direct TV several years ago because of the Sunday Ticket (yes, I was as excited, if not more, than my hubby to get it), but then moving and such, I decided my Cox internet was more valuable than 12 games each Sunday, well that and two kids make it much more difficult to veg out on Sundays . . . Cox eliminated their $10 basic cable that allowed me to have Dish, basic cable and internet at a good price, now I'm a Cox slave. Overall, though, I can't complain about them.
I have seen that Cox is adding more HD soon, maybe that will help make it worth the nice TV you have Wilbur.
quote:
Originally posted by inteller
Their highly compressed HD is crap.
Cox doesn't compress as much and as a result their stuff looks a LOT better.
Oh, and try imagining DVR'ing your favorite show with DirecTV during a storm. Can you say pissed off?
Anything delivered digitally is going to be compressed regardless of whether it's cox, dtv dish, or over-the-air terrestrial broadcasting. It's common practice to alter the amount of compression depending on content (less for sports or movies with lots of motion).
...its also pretty common for carriers to screw up by over-compresing so they can squeeze in more pay-per-view channels to enhance their revenue.
Maybe they think you dont notice ... let them know you do.
"Rain Fade" describes the couple of seconds where a satellite signal is attenuated by an approaching thunderhead heavily laden with water. It's not as frequent as cable ads would have you believe, and much shorter in duration than total cable outages caused by cars sliding into utility poles during storms severe enough to momentarily block a satellite signal.
Adding more bandwidth on satellite involves launching more satellites, and depending on what you want, a home dish configured to "see" all those birds. Adding the same bandwidth with cable means rebuilding the cable system neighborhood-by-neighborhood (takes years) and leasing out new tuners/converters at each subscriber TV.
Best thing about Dish and DirecTV is you are at least 5 years further ahead of the technology curve than cable viewers. DirecTV was always digital, Cox is still catching up. DirecTV was broadcasting HD for years while cable was promising "soon". As for DVR's, I got mine in 2001 with DTV and they had been out a couple of years prior to that. It's still "new" to Cox subscribers.
quote:
Originally posted by patric
quote:
Originally posted by inteller
Their highly compressed HD is crap.
Cox doesn't compress as much and as a result their stuff looks a LOT better.
Oh, and try imagining DVR'ing your favorite show with DirecTV during a storm. Can you say pissed off?
Anything delivered digitally is going to be compressed regardless of whether it's cox, dtv dish, or over-the-air terrestrial broadcasting. It's common practice to alter the amount of compression depending on content (less for sports or movies with lots of motion).
...its also pretty common for carriers to screw up by over-compresing so they can squeeze in more pay-per-view channels to enhance their revenue.
Maybe they think you dont notice ... let them know you do.
"Rain Fade" describes the couple of seconds where a satellite signal is attenuated by an approaching thunderhead heavily laden with water. It's not as frequent as cable ads would have you believe, and much shorter in duration than total cable outages caused by cars sliding into utility poles during storms severe enough to momentarily block a satellite signal.
Adding more bandwidth on satellite involves launching more satellites, and depending on what you want, a home dish configured to "see" all those birds. Adding the same bandwidth with cable means rebuilding the cable system neighborhood-by-neighborhood (takes years) and leasing out new tuners/converters at each subscriber TV.
Best thing about Dish and DirecTV is you are at least 5 years further ahead of the technology curve than cable viewers. DirecTV was always digital, Cox is still catching up. DirecTV was broadcasting HD for years while cable was promising "soon". As for DVR's, I got mine in 2001 with DTV and they had been out a couple of years prior to that. It's still "new" to Cox subscribers.
I've had one real cable outage in the past 7 years. You can't beat that no matter how momentary your outages are... Directv is ahead on box capability because it doesn't work without a box. You can get tons of channels and even HD on cable without paying a dime for a box or signing a contract. Not to mention to I haven't signed a contract yet. My neighbor worked for dish network and he had cox cable. That says enough for me in the cable vs satellite war.
Also I see that one of the new channels is HD on demand. That beats dozens of channels in my book. Satellite ondemand only works if you pay AT&T or COX to give internet access to your box.
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
DirecTV wins point for pushing hi-def but many of their channels are merely upconversions of the standard broadcasts, meaning quality is not true HD. Another issue is compression. During fast movement, you may see blocks or jagged edges, and this is from compressing the signals. Too much compression, and it's like watching youtube. There is no FCC regulation on compression and so HD on Dish Network, DirecTV, COX, and broadcast all look different. One of my coworkers uses Directv and loves it, except he says he loses it during storms.
From a technology perspective, cable will win eventually. On demand, HD, and interactive TV are all the future and CableTV and Internet-based TV will winout over wireless anytime. You will always be able to do more on wired mediums that wireless.
Fore reference, here is the 70 channels Directv has:
http://directv.com/DTVAPP/global/contentPageNR.jsp?assetId=P4380112
Is that true? They are simply upconverting and claiming HD? If so, that is bogus.
I'm about to purchase a new home theater receiver that will automatically upconvert video, which is only a little better then expanding the picture to fill the screen. But, at least everyone won't look fat!
quote:
Originally posted by Wilbur
Is that true? They are simply upconverting and claiming HD? If so, that is bogus.
I watched "The Wizard of Oz" on HD the other day.. think about it.
Anyone seen the new 96 inch projection TV at the Brookside Bar....Wow.....What a picture.....
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
quote:
Originally posted by Wilbur
Is that true? They are simply upconverting and claiming HD? If so, that is bogus.
I watched "The Wizard of Oz" on HD the other day.. think about it.
Yeah but did it still look better than on a "regular" channel?
I have been with Directv for a bunch of years. I wouldn't trade it for limited cable no matter what. I've got hundreds of channels, all the premium and Sunday Ticket. The quality is extraordinary. The price has stayed basically the same for about 5 years.
They came out with the new HD DVR a few months back to accomodate the new MPEG-4 technology. I called and inquired about the cost and it was around $400. They checked my account and gave me one for free. Free install, too. I bought a hi-def plasma because of the 100 HD channels. I only watch a few of them (including local), because I don't have a lot of time to watch TV - but it's nice knowing they are there if I want to watch them.
I have 4 DVRs from Directv - all were free. Their customer service has been incredible.
I DO have complaints, though. When storms come through, I may lose the signal. What I've noticed, though, is that if I'm watching a local station - everybody (even cable) misses their show because the local weather guys keep interrupting to inform me that it's raining in Kansas. Then they rebroadcast the show at 11PM or 1AM.
Also, not all Directv installers are created equal. I've had really bad ones and a couple good ones. They NEVER follow up - you may get a call asking if everything went well, but when you explain you had a problem, nobody ever shows up again. You have to call back again.
Also, Directv does not offer a package with phone, internet and satellite, so I have Windstream DSL. I also have my home phone with them, but do not use a home phone, don't know my home phone number, and don't even have a phone to hook up to the wall. Shame I have to pay for phone service to get DSL.
Hope that helps...
quote:
I watched "The Wizard of Oz" on HD the other day.. think about it.
Ah, did you kick on some Pink Floyd simultaneously for the real experience? [8]
quote:
Originally posted by Kashmir
quote:
I watched "The Wizard of Oz" on HD the other day.. think about it.
Ah, did you kick on some Pink Floyd simultaneously for the real experience? [8]
I remember those days... Wizard of OZ, Pink Floyd and a bag of er, uh, ... popcorn. Popcorn! Yeah, that's the ticket!
Satellite is also just broadcasting in 1080p at best. Cable does 1080i (when available).
It's all about two directional bandwidth and the future is HD on demand and interactive television and that is simply not truly possible with a one directional satellite service.
Cox does not offer much compared to other cable providers, but, look for that to improve as AT&T rolls out U-Verse here. Cable and phone providers keep getting closer to having real FTH (Fiber to Home) service. I saw a new subdivision going up in Glenpool advertising FTH phone service.
AT&T is working on a fiber to pedestal system (sadly unlike Verizon's real FTH push in their markets) that will greatly increase AT&T's offerings. The service is called U-Verse (Verizon's is called FIOS). Cox uses a HFC (hybrid fiber coax) system and I believe has fiber to nodes that handle about 100 homes each today. I don't think they have fiber to pedestals yet, much less home, but then coax cable has much great bandwidth than old phone pairs. I believe that both FIOS and U-Verse are using SDV (switched digital video) where a cable channel is only supplied to a node if someone is watching it. You can imagine the bandwidth saving with that. Cox I am sure is working on that, but it requires an all digital system and Cox is not quite there yet.
Where we are going is hundreds of on demand interactive HD services with gigabit internet all in one. Phone will just be a feature that's included. It will be some years, but it's coming. The competitors are going to be what we call cable and phone companies today. Electric companies can get in the game too if they choose. I just don't see linear Satellite service being a long term competitor.
quote:
Originally posted by Wilbur
Is that true? They are simply upconverting and claiming HD? If so, that is bogus.
It sure would be. If someone like ESPN HD is doing that all the time, I would yell foul. More than likely it's going to be a mix of true HD and upconverted content, which is going to look about the same no matter who carries it.
Standard-def programing isnt going to go away just because everyone's going digital. Our great grandkids will always have Lucy's Vitameatavegamin and the choclate factory scene http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wp3m1vg06Q
quote:
Originally posted by restored2x
Shame I have to pay for phone service to get DSL.
"Naked" DSL is available in many markets, but not ours since not enough people have been putting pressure on our Corporation Commission.
Im curious what AT&T's plans will be when they introduce their U-Verse and Homezone video services to compete head-to-head with Cox.
Landline, wireless, internet and TV all from Ma Bell. That's going to shake some people up.
I have Cox HD and am satisfied. Every now and then I'll lose a couple HD channels but I think it is because my dogs worked over my line and I "repaired" it - not Cox problem.
One thing I would like about Cox is MORE INFORMATION on channels. Direct TV lets you purchase more individual channels and tells you how much the subscription is with the push of a button. Cox you have to buy most in packages.
Basically, I want CSTV so I can watch the U of Tulsa.
Conan: Sports NOT in HD barely count as sports anymore.
quote:
Originally posted by swake
Satellite is also just broadcasting in 1080p at best. Cable does 1080i (when available).
I think you've got it backwards, apparently you missed the Jessica Simpson commercial bragging about 1080i and "I don't know what it is but I want it."
http://youtube.com/watch?v=7d18mZzBQf0
My box I've had for 2 years on cox does 1080p.
AT&T/SBC is way behind in the Tulsa market as evidenced by the lacking DSL speeds. Much is due to the old wiring and their oft-delayed fiber projects. They've been working on fiber to the pedestal for almost 10 years.
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
quote:
Originally posted by swake
Satellite is also just broadcasting in 1080p at best. Cable does 1080i (when available).
I think you've got it backwards, apparently you missed the Jessica Simpson commercial bragging about 1080i and "I don't know what it is but I want it."
http://youtube.com/watch?v=7d18mZzBQf0
My box I've had for 2 years on cox does 1080p.
AT&T/SBC is way behind in the Tulsa market as evidenced by the lacking DSL speeds. Much is due to the old wiring and their oft-delayed fiber projects. They've been working on fiber to the pedestal for almost 10 years.
Yes, you are correct. I did type it backwards.
AT&T did announce that they would have U-Verse soon in Jenks and Edmond. Who know what that means to them. What this area needs is a good overbuilder to put some panic in AT&T and Cox.
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
quote:
Originally posted by swake
Satellite is also just broadcasting in 1080p at best. Cable does 1080i (when available).
My box I've had for 2 years on cox does 1080p.
I don't want to have a geek-out competition, but when I bought my TV I was told that the only available 1080p feed was from HD-DVDs and Blu-Ray DVDs. Wikipedia confirms that, at this time, there is no 1080p television broadcast available from any provider, satellite or cable. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1080p
1080i is what you're getting. And just because a movie is old, doesn't mean it can't be broadcast in HD. Any movie shot on 35 mm film has infinitely high analog quality and can be converted into as high a digital format as there is digital storage and broadcast capability. Films shown from a focused projector in a dark theater have always been "high definition"--we're just at a point technologically to be able to pipe that definition into living rooms digitally.
quote:
Originally posted by Floyd
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
quote:
Originally posted by swake
Satellite is also just broadcasting in 1080p at best. Cable does 1080i (when available).
My box I've had for 2 years on cox does 1080p.
I don't want to have a geek-out competition, but when I bought my TV I was told that the only available 1080p feed was from HD-DVDs and Blu-Ray DVDs. Wikipedia confirms that, at this time, there is no 1080p television broadcast available from any provider, satellite or cable. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1080p
1080i is what you're getting. And just because a movie is old, doesn't mean it can't be broadcast in HD. Any movie shot on 35 mm film has infinitely high analog quality and can be converted into as high a digital format as there is digital storage and broadcast capability. Films shown from a focused projector in a dark theater have always been "high definition"--we're just at a point technologically to be able to pipe that definition into living rooms digitally.
Most HD-DVD players are 720p, ironically enough.
Progressive anything is half the battle. 480p looks almost as good as HD itself. Those scan lines are not visible really, but in movement they make a difference.
quote:
Originally posted by cannon_fodder
I have Cox HD and am satisfied. Every now and then I'll lose a couple HD channels but I think it is because my dogs worked over my line and I "repaired" it - not Cox problem.
One thing I would like about Cox is MORE INFORMATION on channels. Direct TV lets you purchase more individual channels and tells you how much the subscription is with the push of a button. Cox you have to buy most in packages.
Basically, I want CSTV so I can watch the U of Tulsa.
Conan: Sports NOT in HD barely count as sports anymore.
Eh, the only sports I generally have enough patience to watch anymore is auto racing or college football. I might watch March Madness or the NBA or MLB finals, but that's about it. I've had the real life 3D experience in race cars and I've sat in plenty of football stadiums. Having finer resolution just doesn't puff my skirt all that much. I guess I'm just a walking anachronism. [;)]
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
Most HD-DVD players are 720p, ironically enough.
No they are not. The A1, A2, A3 and the Venturer are all 1080i. All others are 1080p. There are no 720p-only players from either HDDVD or Bluray.
If TGOV would ever get around to putting city government video on their web site (//%22http://www.tgovonline.org%22), I could at least think about dropping Cox for some other option.
You watch TGOV, too?
Man...we need a life...
Heh, make that three, I've got TGOV on right now, Nov. 8 council meeting.
Some observations here: From the camera angle, Cason Carter reminds me of Michael J. Fox, and John Eagleton looks sort of like a Doonesbury character. No disrespect intended, TV has a way of altering peoples looks. The audio makes Roscoe sound like Kenny in Southpark.
quote:
Originally posted by Floyd
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
quote:
Originally posted by swake
Satellite is also just broadcasting in 1080p at best. Cable does 1080i (when available).
My box I've had for 2 years on cox does 1080p.
I don't want to have a geek-out competition, but when I bought my TV I was told that the only available 1080p feed was from HD-DVDs and Blu-Ray DVDs. Wikipedia confirms that, at this time, there is no 1080p television broadcast available from any provider, satellite or cable. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1080p
1080i is what you're getting. And just because a movie is old, doesn't mean it can't be broadcast in HD. Any movie shot on 35 mm film has infinitely high analog quality and can be converted into as high a digital format as there is digital storage and broadcast capability. Films shown from a focused projector in a dark theater have always been "high definition"--we're just at a point technologically to be able to pipe that definition into living rooms digitally.
out of all the posts here, yours and mine are the only ones not dripping with bull****.
5 years ahead of the curve? give me a break.
I just wanted to clear a few things up on the HD discussion.
1. DIRECTV broadcasts in 1080i.
2. The 1080p broadcast doesn't exist yet.
3. DIRECTV has 74 HD channels currently.
4. Even if DIRECTV carries ESPNHD or SciFiHD, they are at the mercy of the broadcast. If the feed is HD then it will be HD DIRECTV doesn't make that choice. They just carry the channel. (don't kill the messenger)
5. There are no jaggies on DIRECTV HD. If you have jaggies then you don't have an HD reciever or an HD compatible TV.
6. The HD shows are not "upscaled" as some have suggested. If they are broadcast in HD by ESPN or whatever then DIRECTV carries the signal in full 1080iHD. If your reciever can't do 1080i then you get what you get.
7. Lastly, 20+ HD channels on cable or Dish pffft... 74 blow that away. I don't watch anything on standard def anymore. All of my favorite shows are in Hi Def and I'm never turning back. It's time for Dish and Cable to hit the showers. Game over.
In case anyone was interested. Here is the DIRECTV HD lineup with hopefully 26 more to come by the end of the year. Cable and Dish....you wish. :-)
70 501 HBO East HD
71 537 Showtime East HD
72 209 ESPN2 HD
73 206 ESPN HD
74 Universal HD
75 245 TNT HD
76 HD Theater (was Discovery HD Theater)
78 HDNet Movies
79 HDNet
80 CBS East (NY) HD
81 CBS West (LA) HD
82 NBC East (NY) HD
83 NBC West (LA) HD
86 ABC East (NY) HD
87 ABC West (LA) HD
88 Fox East (NY) HD
89 Fox West (LA) HD
99 PPV HD (MPEG2)
101 101 (partially HD)
135 PPV HD
136 PPV HD
137 PPV HD
138 PPV HD
145 PPV HD
146 PPV HD
147 PPV HD
202 CNN HD
206 ESPN HD
209 ESPN2 HD
212 NFL Network HD
220 Big Ten Network HD
229 HGTV HD
231 Food Network HD
242 USA Network HD
244 SciFi Channel HD
245 TNT HD
247 TBS HD
248 FX HD
255 MGM HD
265 A&E HD
267 Smithsonian HD
269 History Channel HD
273 Bravo HD
276 National Geographic Channel HD
278 Discovery Channel HD
280 TLC HD
282 Animal Planet HD
284 Science Channel HD
296 Cartoon Network HD
332 MHD
334 101 101 (partially HD)
355 CNBC HD
359 Fox Business Channel HD
362 Weather Channel HD
501 HBO East HD
504 HBO West HD
509 501 HBO East HD
512 Cinemax East HD
514 Cinemax West HD
518 Starz Kids & Family HD
519 Starz Comedy HD
520 Starz East HD
521 Starz West HD
522 Starz Edge HD
537 Showtime East HD
538 Showtime Too HD
540 Showtime West HD
543 537 Showtime East HD
544 Movie Channel HD
604 Versus HD / Golf HD
607 Speed Channel HD
612 Fuel TV HD
622 Yankees Entertainment & Sports (YES) HD
623 New England Sports Network (NESN) HD
625 SportsNet New York (SNY) HD
628 FSN Pittsburgh
636 FSN Detroit HD
629 Comcast Sports Network (CSN) Mid-Atlantic HD
640 Comcast Sports Network (CSN) Chicago HD
643 FSN Southwest HD
647 FSN Midwest
652 FSN West HD
653 FSN Prime Ticket HD
683 625 SportsNet New York (SNY) HD
684 622 Yankees Entertainment & Sports (YES) HD
718 NFL Sunday Ticket HD
719 NFL Sunday Ticket HD
720 NFL Sunday Ticket HD
721 NFL Sunday Ticket HD
722 NFL Sunday Ticket HD
723 NFL Sunday Ticket HD
724 NFL Sunday Ticket HD
725 NFL Sunday Ticket HD
726 NFL Sunday Ticket HD
751 NBA League Pass HD
752 NBA League Pass HD
753 NBA League Pass HD
754 NBA League Pass HD
755 NBA League Pass HD
756 NBA League Pass HD
757 NBA League Pass HD
758 NBA League Pass HD
759 NBA League Pass HD
760 NBA League Pass HD
761 NBA League Pass HD
762 NBA League Pass HD
763 NBA League Pass HD
764 NHL Center Ice HD
765 NHL Center Ice HD
766 NHL Center Ice HD
767 NHL Center Ice HD
768 NHL Center Ice HD
769 NHL Center Ice HD
770 NHL Center Ice HD
771 NHL Center Ice HD
772 NHL Center Ice HD
773 NHL Center Ice HD
774 NHL Center Ice HD
775 NHL Center Ice HD
776 NHL Center Ice HD
You couldn't pry my DirecTV away from me.
But, they need to carry TGOV locally for it to be complete.
So if you don't watch sports, premium movie channels, or PPV, you have like 13 channels left...
Uh...try more like 30.
Excuse me....38 NON Premium-Non Sports HD Channels.
2 NBCHD
6 CBSHD
8 ABCHD
23 FOXHD
70 501 HBO East HD
71 537 Showtime East HD
72 209 ESPN2 HD
73 206 ESPN HD
74 Universal HD
75 245 TNT HD
76 HD Theater (was Discovery HD Theater)
78 HDNet Movies
79 HDNet
202 CNN HD
229 HGTV HD
231 Food Network HD
242 USA Network HD
244 SciFi Channel HD
245 TNT HD
247 TBS HD
248 FX HD
255 MGM HD
265 A&E HD
267 Smithsonian HD
269 History Channel HD
273 Bravo HD
276 National Geographic Channel HD
278 Discovery Channel HD
280 TLC HD
282 Animal Planet HD
284 Science Channel HD
296 Cartoon Network HD
332 MHD
334 101 101 (partially HD)
355 CNBC HD
359 Fox Business Channel HD
362 Weather Channel HD
607 Speed Channel HD
Sweet! DIRECTV just launched 10 more HD channels today. 5 National channels and 5 more PPV channels. They are up to 84 HD channels now. Here are the 5 national channels.
327 CMT HD
331 MTV HD
299 Nickelodeon HD
325 Spike HD
335 VH1 HD
Thanks for filtering the list, but you left two movie channels on there.
Thanks for clearing up the upconversion rumor. I agree, and Cox does the same, they can only show an HD show if the network kicks it out that way.
Thanks also for the list of HD channels from Direct TV.
But I have to ask, what are jaggies?
quote:
Originally posted by swake
Where we are going is hundreds of on demand interactive HD services with gigabit internet all in one. Phone will just be a feature that's included. It will be some years, but it's coming. The competitors are going to be what we call cable and phone companies today. Electric companies can get in the game too if they choose. I just don't see linear Satellite service being a long term competitor.
Im going to agree with you in that respect, when you include all the "It will be some years, but it's coming" technologies.
But for the here, available now, walk-into-Best-Buy-and-get-it-off-the-shelf, DirecTV has more bang for the buck, and should be viable for the next 15-20 years.
If you were making a purchasing decision today, that's what I would recommend.
quote:
Originally posted by Wilbur
But I have to ask, what are jaggies?
(http://www.borisfx.com/image/tutorials/jaggies.jpg)
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
Thanks for filtering the list, but you left two movie channels on there.
Those channels are pro bono with the HD package. They don't require a premium subscription.
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
quote:
Originally posted by Wilbur
But I have to ask, what are jaggies?
(http://www.borisfx.com/image/tutorials/jaggies.jpg)
I got some bad news for you. That ain't DIRECTV. You need to check your equipment bud. Good luck. :-)
quote:
Originally posted by patric
quote:
Originally posted by swake
Where we are going is hundreds of on demand interactive HD services with gigabit internet all in one. Phone will just be a feature that's included. It will be some years, but it's coming. The competitors are going to be what we call cable and phone companies today. Electric companies can get in the game too if they choose. I just don't see linear Satellite service being a long term competitor.
Im going to agree with you in that respect, when you include all the "It will be some years, but it's coming" technologies.
But for the here, available now, walk-into-Best-Buy-and-get-it-off-the-shelf, DirecTV has more bang for the buck, and should be viable for the next 15-20 years.
If you were making a purchasing decision today, that's what I would recommend.
I'm not saying don't but a dish, but the time frame is only going to be more like 5 to 6 years.
Within 6 months to a year we should have two providers with at least 20 meg internet service with cable services here in Tulsa. Other markets might be pushing 50 megs in the next year or so. Speeds are doubling or more every year, do the math.
HD On Demand is going to be the big new service over the next year. Convergance of cable and internet entertainment offerings is already happening.
quote:
Originally posted by izmophonik
I got some bad news for you. That ain't DIRECTV. You need to check your equipment bud. Good luck. :-)
It's not COX either. That was from a video editing forum, it's from a PC.
Hey, besides TGOV, I noticed tonight that DirecTV does not carry KMYT-HD (42) in the local lineup. No OSU basketball.
REF: DirecTV Local Listing (//%22http://directv.com/DTVAPP/packProg/localChannels.jsp?assetId=900018%22)(enter 74101)
Has anyone else found that Ch. 357 TMC Xtra is free even without Showtime? I have HBO but stumbled upon 357 working with no block on it.
It's listed in the channel lineup as being part of the Showtime tier, but I don't subscribe to Showtime.
Originally posted by izmophonik
Excuse me....38 NON Premium-Non Sports HD Channels.
2 NBCHD <<<---Local Channel OPTION
6 CBSHD <<<---Local Channel OPTION
8 ABCHD <<<---Local Channel OPTION
23 FOXHD <<<---Local Channel OPTION
70 501 HBO East HD
71 537 Showtime East HD
72 209 ESPN2 HD
73 206 ESPN HD
74 Universal HD
75 245 TNT HD
76 HD Theater (was Discovery HD Theater)
78 HDNet Movies
79 HDNet
202 CNN HD
229 HGTV HD
231 Food Network HD
242 USA Network HD
244 SciFi Channel HD
245 TNT HD
247 TBS HD
248 FX HD
255 MGM HD
265 A&E HD
267 Smithsonian HD <<<---"IRTV"
269 History Channel HD
273 Bravo HD
276 National Geographic Channel HD
278 Discovery Channel HD
280 TLC HD
282 Animal Planet HD
284 Science Channel HD
296 Cartoon Network HD
332 MHD <<<---not even listed goes 331 to 333
334 101 101 (partially HD)
355 CNBC HD
359 Fox Business Channel HD
362 Weather Channel HD
607 Speed Channel HD
=====
I have only the middle package, but would apparently need the premium package to get some of these, and Local Channels are an added option.
quote:
Originally posted by perkman
Has anyone else found that Ch. 357 TMC Xtra is free even without Showtime? I have HBO but stumbled upon 357 working with no block on it.
It's listed in the channel lineup as being part of the Showtime tier, but I don't subscribe to Showtime.
I'm getting CNBC WORLD, an international business news type channel on 357.
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
quote:
Originally posted by Wilbur
But I have to ask, what are jaggies?
(http://www.borisfx.com/image/tutorials/jaggies.jpg)
That's a bad case of the jaggies. I had Directv with a 42" Panasonic Enhanced Definition (ED) Plasma TV, (not HD) and NEVER got jaggies.
When a storm comes through, the picture can look like what a dirty DVD looks like, with the picture breaking up. That's the worse I've seen with Directv.
quote:
Originally posted by restored2x
When a storm comes through, the picture can look like what a dirty DVD looks like, with the picture breaking up. That's the worse I've seen with Directv.
Clouds wont do that; it has to be a pretty substantial thunderhead passing over to diminish the signal. In that event you should be investigating your local channels anyway ;-)
Does anyone know if AT&T is building U-Verse in midtown Tulsa right now? We've had some subcontractor laying orange conduit for new lines in the area, and it's not water nor gas...
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
Hey, besides TGOV, I noticed tonight that DirecTV does not carry KMYT-HD (42) in the local lineup. No OSU basketball.
REF: DirecTV Local Listing (//%22http://directv.com/DTVAPP/packProg/localChannels.jsp?assetId=900018%22)(enter 74101)
The OSU game was on last night. I think it's on channel 35 though.
Just saw where the TU-Army game will be broadcast on ESPN Classic on Saturday 11:00am CST.
quote:
Originally posted by izmophonik
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
Hey, besides TGOV, I noticed tonight that DirecTV does not carry KMYT-HD (42) in the local lineup. No OSU basketball.
REF: DirecTV Local Listing (//%22http://directv.com/DTVAPP/packProg/localChannels.jsp?assetId=900018%22)(enter 74101)
The OSU game was on last night. I think it's on channel 35 though.
What DirecTV channel is that?
Maybe next game, this one didn't work out anyway.
Just noticed this on the DirecTV website:
"*Channel available in HD. To access DIRECTV High–Definition programming, a five LNB multi–satellite dish antenna, DIRECTV® HD Receiver (H20, H21, HR20, HR21), high–definition television and HD Access fee ($9.99/mo.) are required."
as a barely readable notation at the bottom of the Package Channel Listings (//%22http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/moreInfoOffer.jsp?productId=prod920032%22) (light grey on white, extra small/fine font).
So, appears ALL HD Channels are premium charge in receiver, dish and monthly rate.
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
So, appears ALL HD Channels are premium charge in receiver, dish and monthly rate.
HD has been available with the 3 LNB dish since the dish was introduced a couple of years ago, and without any additional fee. The primary reason for the 3 LNB dish was to be able to "see" new satellites that were carrying all the local channels.
With DirecTV you have the option of several tiers of service (so you dont have to pay for premium services you dont want), but if you need to get technical, a higher tier is "more premium" than a lower, cheaper tier. I would think most carriers operate similarly.
EDIT: Fairly recently HD programming has been priced separately from regular packages, at the $9.99 price. For existing customers, HD was just "there" only needing an HD tuner to get them. The 5 LNB dish is needed to see the newest satellites launched, which is the bulk of the newest HD channels. If you do opt for the 5 LNB dish, ask for the "slimline" model as the early "sidecar" model is a bit clunky.
quote:
Originally posted by patric
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
So, appears ALL HD Channels are premium charge in receiver, dish and monthly rate.
HD has been available with the 3 LNB dish since the dish was introduced a couple of years ago, and without any additional fee. The primary reason for the 3 LNB dish was to be able to "see" new satellites that were carrying all the local channels.
With DirecTV you have the option of several tiers of service (so you dont have to pay for premium services you dont want), but if you need to get technical, a higher tier is "more premium" than a lower, cheaper tier. I would think most carriers operate similarly.
EDIT: Fairly recently HD programming has been priced separately from regular packages, at the $9.99 price. For existing customers, HD was just "there" only needing an HD tuner to get them. The 5 LNB dish is needed to see the newest satellites launched, which is the bulk of the newest HD channels. If you do opt for the 5 LNB dish, ask for the "slimline" model as the early "sidecar" model is a bit clunky.
The 3LNB is for MPEG2 signals, the 5LNB is required for the newer MPEG4 capablity.
Grizzle, you really ARE a geek!
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
quote:
Originally posted by perkman
Has anyone else found that Ch. 357 TMC Xtra is free even without Showtime? I have HBO but stumbled upon 357 working with no block on it.
It's listed in the channel lineup as being part of the Showtime tier, but I don't subscribe to Showtime.
I'm getting CNBC WORLD, an international business news type channel on 357.
I'm sorry I should have mentioned this is Cox in Tulsa I'm talking about.
quote:
Originally posted by Conan71
Grizzle, you really ARE a geek!
I'm not A geek, I'm THE geek.
quote:
Originally posted by perkman
Has anyone else found that Ch. 357 TMC Xtra is free even without Showtime? I have HBO but stumbled upon 357 working with no block on it.
It's listed in the channel lineup as being part of the Showtime tier, but I don't subscribe to Showtime.
Works for me to, sure it's an oversight.
quote:
Originally posted by patric
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
So, appears ALL HD Channels are premium charge in receiver, dish and monthly rate.
HD has been available with the 3 LNB dish since the dish was introduced a couple of years ago, and without any additional fee. The primary reason for the 3 LNB dish was to be able to "see" new satellites that were carrying all the local channels.
With DirecTV you have the option of several tiers of service (so you dont have to pay for premium services you dont want), but if you need to get technical, a higher tier is "more premium" than a lower, cheaper tier. I would think most carriers operate similarly.
EDIT: Fairly recently HD programming has been priced separately from regular packages, at the $9.99 price. For existing customers, HD was just "there" only needing an HD tuner to get them. The 5 LNB dish is needed to see the newest satellites launched, which is the bulk of the newest HD channels. If you do opt for the 5 LNB dish, ask for the "slimline" model as the early "sidecar" model is a bit clunky.
Been reading more about all this HD stuff, figuring I need to start getting ready....
Well, not everyone's happy with DirecTV's 5 LNB (//%22http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=280261%22), and after reading, I can understand why.
Looks like this advanced technology stuff is going to become expensive AND difficult.
I'm starting to think OTA-HD may be not only the most practical solution, it may be the only one I can afford when the home renovation is included.
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
quote:
Originally posted by patric
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
So, appears ALL HD Channels are premium charge in receiver, dish and monthly rate.
HD has been available with the 3 LNB dish since the dish was introduced a couple of years ago, and without any additional fee. The primary reason for the 3 LNB dish was to be able to "see" new satellites that were carrying all the local channels.
With DirecTV you have the option of several tiers of service (so you dont have to pay for premium services you dont want), but if you need to get technical, a higher tier is "more premium" than a lower, cheaper tier. I would think most carriers operate similarly.
EDIT: Fairly recently HD programming has been priced separately from regular packages, at the $9.99 price. For existing customers, HD was just "there" only needing an HD tuner to get them. The 5 LNB dish is needed to see the newest satellites launched, which is the bulk of the newest HD channels. If you do opt for the 5 LNB dish, ask for the "slimline" model as the early "sidecar" model is a bit clunky.
Been reading more about all this HD stuff, figuring I need to start getting ready....
Well, not everyone's happy with DirecTV's 5 LNB (//%22http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=280261%22), and after reading, I can understand why.
Looks like this advanced technology stuff is going to become expensive AND difficult.
I'm starting to think OTA-HD may be not only the most practical solution, it may be the only one I can afford when the home renovation is included.
Just to let you know, that thread is nearly two years old. Many of the points made are definitely moot now. Directv does have a DVR that works with the new MPEG4. It does not use the Tivo interface, but it is very good, and does everything Tivo does. (I have one, so I know it works, and IMO, as good as Tivo.)
Most of the complaints on that thread also are related to installation issues, not technical inferiority issues.
If you are a new customer, you will get a lot of free stuff (everything but an HD TV). You can probably swing a free, or an incredible deal on, an HD DVR.
My advice is - if you decide to go with Directv, call them and tell them you are considering getting cable or directv, and you are looking for the best overall deal. When they offer you a deal, ask for more. You will get almost anything you ask for as a new customer.
Also - to avoid or alleviate install problems - get a morning appointment. That way, if stuff ain't done to your satisfaction, the guy will have more time to get stuff done. I made the mistake of having an afternoon appointment and if it gets dark or the installer encounters a problem, we have to set a different appointment to finish. Not good.
Also - all install techs have a supervisor - if the guy doesn't do well, the supervisor will come out himself to finish the work. You don't want to run out of time or daylight before the supervisor can come out, if necessary.
It doesn't take much googling to find someone complaining about a product or service - I wouldn't let the above mentioned thread deter you.
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
quote:
Originally posted by patric
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
So, appears ALL HD Channels are premium charge in receiver, dish and monthly rate.
HD has been available with the 3 LNB dish since the dish was introduced a couple of years ago, and without any additional fee. The primary reason for the 3 LNB dish was to be able to "see" new satellites that were carrying all the local channels.
With DirecTV you have the option of several tiers of service (so you dont have to pay for premium services you dont want), but if you need to get technical, a higher tier is "more premium" than a lower, cheaper tier. I would think most carriers operate similarly.
EDIT: Fairly recently HD programming has been priced separately from regular packages, at the $9.99 price. For existing customers, HD was just "there" only needing an HD tuner to get them. The 5 LNB dish is needed to see the newest satellites launched, which is the bulk of the newest HD channels. If you do opt for the 5 LNB dish, ask for the "slimline" model as the early "sidecar" model is a bit clunky.
Been reading more about all this HD stuff, figuring I need to start getting ready....
Well, not everyone's happy with DirecTV's 5 LNB (//%22http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=280261%22), and after reading, I can understand why.
Looks like this advanced technology stuff is going to become expensive AND difficult.
I'm starting to think OTA-HD may be not only the most practical solution, it may be the only one I can afford when the home renovation is included.
Just to let you know, that thread is nearly two years old. Many of the points made are definitely moot now. Directv does have a DVR that works with the new MPEG4. It does not use the Tivo interface, but it is very good, and does everything Tivo does. (I have one, so I know it works, and IMO, as good as Tivo.)
Most of the complaints on that thread also are related to installation issues, not technical inferiority issues.
If you are a new customer, you will get a lot of free stuff (everything but an HD TV). You can probably swing a free, or an incredible deal on, an HD DVR.
My advice is - if you decide to go with Directv, call them and tell them you are considering getting cable or directv, and you are looking for the best overall deal. When they offer you a deal, ask for more. You will get almost anything you ask for as a new customer.
Also - to avoid or alleviate install problems - get a morning appointment. That way, if stuff ain't done to your satisfaction, the guy will have more time to get stuff done. I made the mistake of having an afternoon appointment and if it gets dark or the installer encounters a problem, we have to set a different appointment to finish. Not good.
Also - all install techs have a supervisor - if the guy doesn't do well, the supervisor will come out himself to finish the work. You don't want to run out of time or daylight before the supervisor can come out, if necessary.
It doesn't take much googling to find someone complaining about a product or service - I wouldn't let the above mentioned thread deter you.
Sorry for the double-post. Unintentional.
quote:
Originally posted by restored2x
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
quote:
Originally posted by patric
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
So, appears ALL HD Channels are premium charge in receiver, dish and monthly rate.
HD has been available with the 3 LNB dish since the dish was introduced a couple of years ago, and without any additional fee. The primary reason for the 3 LNB dish was to be able to "see" new satellites that were carrying all the local channels.
With DirecTV you have the option of several tiers of service (so you dont have to pay for premium services you dont want), but if you need to get technical, a higher tier is "more premium" than a lower, cheaper tier. I would think most carriers operate similarly.
EDIT: Fairly recently HD programming has been priced separately from regular packages, at the $9.99 price. For existing customers, HD was just "there" only needing an HD tuner to get them. The 5 LNB dish is needed to see the newest satellites launched, which is the bulk of the newest HD channels. If you do opt for the 5 LNB dish, ask for the "slimline" model as the early "sidecar" model is a bit clunky.
Been reading more about all this HD stuff, figuring I need to start getting ready....
Well, not everyone's happy with DirecTV's 5 LNB (//%22http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=280261%22), and after reading, I can understand why.
Looks like this advanced technology stuff is going to become expensive AND difficult.
I'm starting to think OTA-HD may be not only the most practical solution, it may be the only one I can afford when the home renovation is included.
Just to let you know, that thread is nearly two years old. Many of the points made are definitely moot now. Directv does have a DVR that works with the new MPEG4. It does not use the Tivo interface, but it is very good, and does everything Tivo does. (I have one, so I know it works, and IMO, as good as Tivo.)
Most of the complaints on that thread also are related to installation issues, not technical inferiority issues.
If you are a new customer, you will get a lot of free stuff (everything but an HD TV). You can probably swing a free, or an incredible deal on, an HD DVR.
My advice is - if you decide to go with Directv, call them and tell them you are considering getting cable or directv, and you are looking for the best overall deal. When they offer you a deal, ask for more. You will get almost anything you ask for as a new customer.
Also - to avoid or alleviate install problems - get a morning appointment. That way, if stuff ain't done to your satisfaction, the guy will have more time to get stuff done. I made the mistake of having an afternoon appointment and if it gets dark or the installer encounters a problem, we have to set a different appointment to finish. Not good.
Also - all install techs have a supervisor - if the guy doesn't do well, the supervisor will come out himself to finish the work. You don't want to run out of time or daylight before the supervisor can come out, if necessary.
It doesn't take much googling to find someone complaining about a product or service - I wouldn't let the above mentioned thread deter you.
Yes, I knew it was an older thread, and there is new DVR for MPEG4 now. Most of the troubling stuff was related to the 5 cable installation required to get there.
I have to admit, that seems puzzeling. Today's technology would seem to have some answer for multiplexing on a single coax, like Cox.
I'm remembering all I went through just getting a single coax where it was needed. The idea of going back and adding 4 more is unappealing, if possible at all.
I'm liking my current image more and more.
It really is quite good. Can't imagine that much of an improvement, and I've seen examples.
Whatever it is I have now is pretty good, if not leading edge.
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
I'm remembering all I went through just getting a single coax where it was needed. The idea of going back and adding 4 more is unappealing, if possible at all.
Regardless of whether it is 3 LNB or 5 LNB, a 4-output multiswitch is integrated into the LNB (looks like doorknobs) to multiplex the signals.
You have the option of running any or all of the four to receivers in your house, or you can run them to another multiswitch in your attic or basement to expand the outputs beyond the four.
A Multiswitch is like a cable splitter, but handles the signal differently.
TiVo's and DVR's with two tuners require two connections to either the dish or multiswitch.
(http://www.hometech.com/video/gc-au9sa.jpg)
What a modern DirecTV dish looks like.
FYI, here is an instruction sheet a Professional Installer may use when you get your free installation. YOU DONT NEED IT but it's here in case you are curious:
http://www.hometech.com/pdf/gc-au9s.pdf
quote:
Originally posted by patric
quote:
Originally posted by restored2x
When a storm comes through, the picture can look like what a dirty DVD looks like, with the picture breaking up. That's the worse I've seen with Directv.
Clouds wont do that; it has to be a pretty substantial thunderhead passing over to diminish the signal. In that event you should be investigating your local channels anyway ;-)
Does anyone know if AT&T is building U-Verse in midtown Tulsa right now? We've had some subcontractor laying orange conduit for new lines in the area, and it's not water nor gas...
I was excited about uverse coming until I read some of the comments about their service on this story about okc's rollout:
http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/08/10/atandts-u-verse-arrives-in-oklahoma-city-challenges-cox/
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
I was excited about uverse coming until I read some of the comments about their service on this story about okc's rollout:
http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/08/10/atandts-u-verse-arrives-in-oklahoma-city-challenges-cox/
AT&T committed itself to a proprietary Microsoft system for it's video, and is quietly regretting it.
(note to AT&T: Google "open source software")
Their gigabit internet offering, though, is tempting, and would be a nice upgrade from DSL.
I was actually considering AT&T's Video + Phone + DSL service until the other day when I realized they'd shut all three off at once if they thought I took too long to pay my bill.
No thanks.
quote:
Originally posted by patric
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
I'm remembering all I went through just getting a single coax where it was needed. The idea of going back and adding 4 more is unappealing, if possible at all.
Regardless of whether it is 3 LNB or 5 LNB, a 4-output multiswitch is integrated into the LNB (looks like doorknobs) to multiplex the signals.
You have the option of running any or all of the four to receivers in your house, or you can run them to another multiswitch in your attic or basement to expand the outputs beyond the four.
A Multiswitch is like a cable splitter, but handles the signal differently.
TiVo's and DVR's with two tuners require two connections to either the dish or multiswitch.
(http://www.hometech.com/video/gc-au9sa.jpg)
What a modern DirecTV dish looks like.
FYI, here is an instruction sheet a Professional Installer may use when you get your free installation. YOU DONT NEED IT but it's here in case you are curious:
http://www.hometech.com/pdf/gc-au9s.pdf
Guess I'm an old-timer when it comes to D*, I've got a round dish and a 2-LNB connection.
That's like "BC" in dish terms.
And, that was for two different receivers, not two to the same unit as now for Pic-N-Pic and DVR.
And, did I mention its two-stories around here?
NOT looking forward to the routing modifications. So, OTA is sounding better all the time, and they say it actually gets the best HD picture anyway.
Maybe in the Spring....
Patric,
That reminds me...went looking for a "joiner" today. (UHF/VHF Multiplexer) Nobody has them in the 75-Ohm only format, just the 300-75 converter thingys and 5-900MHz Splitters.
Here's what I was after: JOINER (//%22http://outlet.cableorganizer.com/NQP-VTP-3010.html?section=3&catname=%0ACATV+%2F+MATV+%2F+Satellite+%5D+Splitters+%2F+Signal+Combiners?src=shopping&zmam=6023790&zmas=1&zmac=6&zmap=NQP-VTP-3010%22)
Here's all I found: 5-900MHz Splitter (//%22http://outlet.cableorganizer.com/NQP-VSP-1210.html?section=3&catname=%0ACATV+%2F+MATV+%2F+Satellite+%5D+Splitters+%2F+Signal+Combiners?src=shopping&zmam=6023790&zmas=1&zmac=6&zmap=NQP-VSP-1210%22)
And, this: 300-75Ohm Joiner (//%22http://www.ceitron.com/images/5/5d1-120.jpg%22), like you posted HERE (//%22http://www.tulsanow.net/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=8090%22).
Is that 5-900MHz Splitter and a 75-Ohm Joiner equivalent in any way?
quote:
Originally posted by Wrinkle
Is that 5-900MHz Splitter and a 75-Ohm Joiner equivalent in any way?
The "joiner" linked to didnt show any specs, but a splitter can act as a combiner and vice-versa.
I suspect the joiner is just a UHF/VHF splitter connected in reverse.
If you have an older DirecTV installation with one dual LNB you're probably fine unless you want HD or local channels over DirecTV (plus whatever else is on the other, newer birds). You always have the option of having them come out and upgrade your dish and cabling in exchange for committing to a year or two of service, probably not that big a deal if youve been with them that long already.
Just make sure they throw in a multiswitch so you can readily expand and add DVR(s) or more receivers in that period.
Sometimes you get a better deal from the service department than you do from commissioned "re-sellers". Tech Support can give you free stuff to keep you happy and connected, so dont be afraid to ask.
quote:
Originally posted by swake
Satellite is also just broadcasting in 1080p at best. Cable does 1080i (when available).
It's all about two directional bandwidth and the future is HD on demand and interactive television and that is simply not truly possible with a one directional satellite service.
Cox does not offer much compared to other cable providers, but, look for that to improve as AT&T rolls out U-Verse here. Cable and phone providers keep getting closer to having real FTH (Fiber to Home) service. I saw a new subdivision going up in Glenpool advertising FTH phone service.
AT&T is working on a fiber to pedestal system (sadly unlike Verizon's real FTH push in their markets) that will greatly increase AT&T's offerings. The service is called U-Verse (Verizon's is called FIOS). Cox uses a HFC (hybrid fiber coax) system and I believe has fiber to nodes that handle about 100 homes each today. I don't think they have fiber to pedestals yet, much less home, but then coax cable has much great bandwidth than old phone pairs. I believe that both FIOS and U-Verse are using SDV (switched digital video) where a cable channel is only supplied to a node if someone is watching it. You can imagine the bandwidth saving with that. Cox I am sure is working on that, but it requires an all digital system and Cox is not quite there yet.
Where we are going is hundreds of on demand interactive HD services with gigabit internet all in one. Phone will just be a feature that's included. It will be some years, but it's coming. The competitors are going to be what we call cable and phone companies today. Electric companies can get in the game too if they choose. I just don't see linear Satellite service being a long term competitor.
I've got AT&T U-Verse down here in DFW, and I love it. Lots and lots of high def channels and the DVR works great. It's also CHEAP too. I've got my phone, internet, and TV all bundled into one and it has saved me about 40 bucks a month.
Now I just need to get rid of my black and white tv.