I was with D* about 6 or 7 years ago. Since then I've been an E* sub and have been happy with a 622 (HD/DVR), 211 (HD), and HD/AEP/Locals.
I'm not a service provider jumper but, recent developments have caused me to take a closer look at returning to D* (no, it's not just the HD race prompting my reaction ).
So, I'm looking at the following equipment and packages and would appreciate some feedback from the forum. TIA.
Two room two HDTV set-up:
1 HR20 (I want my OTA so, no HR21 for me)
1 H20 (I think this is the non DVR HD STB?)
Premier Package
HD Extra Pack
I've read through several threads on returning customer promotions and think that I might be able to swing a deal on start-up costs for $100 or less, with 2 year commitment. I'm also aware of various fees associated with the above equipment and programming; HD Access Fee, DVR Service Fee, Lease Fee, and I'd probably add the Protection Plan for at least few months.
Total costs look like ~140.00/month, taxes included. This is within a $1 or $2 of what I'm paying E* right now. I realize that I'll also be able to negotiate some type of promotional deal on programming but, like I said before, I'm not interested in constantly jumping back and forth so, I like to look at the bottom line monthly costs, after any promotional periods expire.
My questions:
1) Can I get an HR20 instead of HR21 for installation without visiting BB?
2) I'll be located in either south central or south eastern PA (moving is a factor in my decision to switch). Any recommendations/references for a retail installer in this area who can help negotiate the following type of deal? $100 or less start-up installation costs, ~40% off programming for 3 months, ~30% off programming for 4th-6th months, and ~15% off for 7th-12th months.
3) What are some of the hot button topics/problems/issues with D* these days?
4) Any other feedback on possibly returning to the D* fold?
Many thanks if you've read my lengthy post and offer a response!
I'm not a service provider jumper but, recent developments have caused me to take a closer look at returning to D* (no, it's not just the HD race prompting my reaction ).
So, I'm looking at the following equipment and packages and would appreciate some feedback from the forum. TIA.
Two room two HDTV set-up:
1 HR20 (I want my OTA so, no HR21 for me)
1 H20 (I think this is the non DVR HD STB?)
Premier Package
HD Extra Pack
I've read through several threads on returning customer promotions and think that I might be able to swing a deal on start-up costs for $100 or less, with 2 year commitment. I'm also aware of various fees associated with the above equipment and programming; HD Access Fee, DVR Service Fee, Lease Fee, and I'd probably add the Protection Plan for at least few months.
Total costs look like ~140.00/month, taxes included. This is within a $1 or $2 of what I'm paying E* right now. I realize that I'll also be able to negotiate some type of promotional deal on programming but, like I said before, I'm not interested in constantly jumping back and forth so, I like to look at the bottom line monthly costs, after any promotional periods expire.
My questions:
1) Can I get an HR20 instead of HR21 for installation without visiting BB?
2) I'll be located in either south central or south eastern PA (moving is a factor in my decision to switch). Any recommendations/references for a retail installer in this area who can help negotiate the following type of deal? $100 or less start-up installation costs, ~40% off programming for 3 months, ~30% off programming for 4th-6th months, and ~15% off for 7th-12th months.
3) What are some of the hot button topics/problems/issues with D* these days?
4) Any other feedback on possibly returning to the D* fold?
Many thanks if you've read my lengthy post and offer a response!