What to buy - complete newbie

[greechneb]

I've been waffling over purchasing a FTA receiver for over a year now, afraid to make the plunge.

I'm located smack dab in the middle of Illinois, with a clear view of the South, so I should be able to access about any satellite, I would think.

I know I want a motorized dish, basically so I'm not going to be tied to any one feed. I don't know what I want to watch, but I'd love to have as many channels as possible, so at 2am when I can't sleep, I could watch soccer in Israel, even though I don't really care for soccer, or switch to watch the news from South Africa, you get the idea. I love the ability to have options. (Same reason I have a shortband radio here at my desk)

Any recommendations on a basic motorized receiver/dish combo that meets the above requirement?

 

[Anole]

One of our many site sponsors has a nice complete motorized package.
That's from Sadoun.
Be sure you discuss the options with us, first.
There are some simple add-ons you'll want, and we can help.

SatelliteAV, another fine sponsor, used to have such packages, but is currently concentrating on a different market segment at this time.
(he just doesn't have motors, last I looked)

The reason I mention both, is not to direct your sales to them, but because they both work with the members in getting good products, and provide the help to get 'em installed.

We can also give you an a-la-carte shopping list, too.
I personally enjoy a receiver that can take an external hard drive and record shows when I'm busy or not around, but that's up to you.

edit: also, if you would set your Location, then we might have a better idea whether there are any closer suppliers, or special dish requirements you'd appreciate -

Please show your City/State shown so others have a clue where you are:
Go to -
- User CP (control panel)
- Edit Profile
- scroll down to Additional Information
- fill in: Location (where you live)

 

[Cadsulfide]

Not plugging any particular vendor, when I got started in FTA a couple of years ago, I was very pleased with the Sadoun folks. They carry a good product line.

Do your homework, read everything you can first, and decide how much of the work you are willing and able to do yourself. It's a great hobby if you have a little time, a tiny bit of money, and a DIY temperment.