Cable TV alternatives?

[zarn02]

My folks are thinking of changing from cable to DirecTV, or Dish Network, or somesuch thing. There's basic cable through the house, and one TV has the premium package. To get that package on the other TV's would be pricey. I've looked into DTV some, but not into Dish Network. DTV at least seems like it will be cheaper to get for all the TVs than the premium cable would be.

Anyway, I'm hoping for some comments on the quality, prime, etc. of these two (or any others you might know of). I know 'erkishhorde' just posted a thread ranting about his hate for DTV, so I guess I know where he stands.

What's the experience been like. Good/bad/indifferent? Getting my parents to decide on a course of action usually requires enough research to write a master's thesis.

[IZ]

DirectTV has been good.  I've had it since '01.  Got a great deal that year too.  2 DVR boxes, free installation, 1 free movie/week from Blockbuster for a year and a $75 gift certificate at Blockbuster (which I bought a DVD player with).


The only problem I have with it.  That commercial they have where the guy is in a hurricane but still has his DirectTV still working is a load of shit!!  I've had their service in AZ, FL, WA, TX and everytime there's a storm..I lost service!!  If you're taping something at that time..you'll lose it.     Those are the times though that I watched whatever I had on the DVR. 

[Popeye the Sailor]

You should get it. Both of them, just in case.



My company builds the satellites for 'em.



Or you could send me money directly-it doesn't have to trickle down. 

[IZ]

BTW..if you want extra outlets installed, slip the installation guy a few extra bucks. 

We scheduled 4 rooms (living room and the bdrms) and the kitchen & patio for an extra $30 under the table. 

[hbliam]

BTW..if you want extra outlets installed, slip the installation guy a few extra bucks. 

We scheduled 4 rooms (living room and the bdrms) and the kitchen & patio for an extra $30 under the table. 

That would be dishonest.

[Rameses]

That would be dishonest.

Doesn't matter.

He wasted his money since he knew he wouldn't be living there for more than a couple days anyway.

[mitt]

That would be dishonest.

Not necessarily.  Most of the installers are independent contractors.  If they are already at the house, $30 might be about right to run another 20' of coax and add 2 0.50$ plates?

mitt

[lwszabo]

Not necessarily.  Most of the installers are independent contractors.  If they are already at the house, $30 might be about right to run another 20' of coax and add 2 0.50$ plates?

mitt

thats what i was thinking...a better way is to get the 2 room deal and go under the table for the rest.

[lethe]

and the best thing is IZ can go under the table without ducking.

[cyrus buelton]

My brother and I are thinking about getting Dish Network.


He lives in Dayton, I live in Columbus.


Split the cost each month and retain separate dishes 

[mitt]

thats what i was thinking...a better way is to get the 2 room deal and go under the table for the rest.

people think that running coax cable is complicated and expensive, but its not.

1000' of good coax cable is $65
50 count bag of great compression connectors is $10
wall plates are $0.50
Compression tool is $10
Cutting strip tool is $10.
Splitters are $1.


mitt

[cokey]

Or you could just go with time warner (if available in your area) and keep me employed... hehe..

Since I'm a twc tech you may think I'm baised..  our system is good our service is good.. usualy people have problems due to lazyness..  I'm not one of them, I knw my job..  I rank 1 to 3 every quarter..  if you have the option of getting twc or fios over dish, I say get it.. might not be as cheap but u get what you pay for... 

[mitt]

Here is the alternative I do:

Decent over air antenna, I get 10 channels, all HD.

For time shifting programs, I use a laptop and Hulu connected to my TV.


No cable for me until someone comes up with an a la carte menu option.  I personally think that cable will die off or change dramatically due to the advent of Hulu and Hulu type sites. 

I am still stuck with a provider for high speed internet, and don't see a way around that.

mitt

[somegirl]

people think that running coax cable is complicated and expensive, but its not.

Agreed, I found it pretty simple to do.

[JEFF_H]

i also had a similar bad experience with DTV.
currently have Cable One cable for internet and TV.
more expensive, but their service is excellent.

my next TV provider is going to be Hulu