Satellite TV Comparison Shopping Made Easy!
By admin | October 25, 2008
DirecTV vs. Dish Network and Satellite TV vs. Cable TV
With so many satellite TV providers competing for your business, how do you know who to choose from? Let’s take a look at two of the more popular satellite TV service providers, DirecTV and Dish Network for an apple to apples comparison.
Dish Network
Dish Network Satellite is the nation’s second largest provider of satellite TV. Does that mean that Dish Network offers better service? Not necessarily.
Dish Network does provide most of the satellite TV resources other providers do, including a satellite TV guide, free satelite TV dishes, free dish network deals and more. Dish Network also offers customers the option of purchasing HDTV equipment and service packages, giving viewers access to 8 high definition channels, a bonus for consumers with high definition TV sets.
In addition Dish Network does have a slightly larger channel selection that DirecTV which is a benefit to some customers.
Here is a summary of the major services offered by Dish Network:
- More than 180 channels
- HDTV for up to 8 channels
- More than 30 sports dedicated networks including subscription options to NBA League Pass, and NHL Center Ice
- Foreign Language Programming in many languages
- More than 103 local channels available
- Monthly cost generally less than $100
- Available in all 50 states
DirecTV
DirecTV is the nation’s largest provider. Like Dish Network, DirecTV is available in all 50 states. DirecTV’s claim to fame is that they offer more channels dollar for dollar than other satellite TV providers.
So how do you know whether DirecTV or Dish Network is right for you? Let’s look at some of the specifics of DirecTV. DirecTV does offer fewer overall channels than Dish Network satellite (but not much fewer) but it does feature exclusive sports packages including NFL Sunday Ticket, which are a bonus for avid sports fans.
DirecTV also offers a high definition package including four feature high definition channels. DirecTV also offers many of the same freebies Dish Network does, including free Direct TV receivers, free satelite TV dishes and satellite TV resources.
A summary of the benefits of DirecTV is as follows:
- More than 150 channels
- More than 30 sports networks including special and exclusive sports package deals
- Foreign language programming in Spanish and Chinese
- Up to 8 HDVT channels
- Approximately 126 local channels
- Monthly costs less than $100
- Available in all 50 states
DirecTV or Dish Network Satellite
So, with an apple to apples comparison, you can see that you get most of the same benefits regardless of which provider you choose. There are some subtle differences between the two, Dish Network offers slightly more overall channels and a larger foreign language programming selection. DirecTV offers some exclusive sports networks and greater access to local channels. DirecTV Tivo is an added benefit for DirecTV consumers, which providers channel recording capability to consumers.
Which provider you select may depend on your location. Some may offer better deals or service in some areas than others.
Satellite TV vs. Cable TV
The question of satellite TV vs. Cable TV is an age old one. How do you know which to choose?
Thus the two also deserve a comparison.
Cable TV
- Equipment - Requires a TV set top box in order to access digital services
Transmission - Usually Analog but consumers have the option of upgrading to digital for a higher premium. Analog channels don’t convert to digital in this situation. - Programming - Supports more than 260 channels and offers options such as pay per view, where viewers can buy movies for a small fee. Usually cable TV offers more local channel options than satellite. Offers fewer HDTV services
- Pricing - Cable is usually more expensive, in part due to additional costs added onto monthly premium, which may include fees, taxes, pay per view and equipment
Satellite TV
- Equipment - Requires use of satellite dish and receivers. Many providers offer free satelite TV systems, free satelite TV dishes to entice customers.
- Transmission - Satellite TV services are all digital, which consumers usually translate to mean better quality reception. TV reception can be subject to interference during inclement weather, but this happens with cable service too.
- Programming - Usually offers 200 or more channels, including more international and sports channels than cable. High definition channels are more easily accessed through satellite
- Pricing - Satellite TV can be less expensive than cable particularly if equipment is thrown in for free. Local channel packages are usually extra with satellite, but over time the expense is less.
So which do you choose?
For many it’s a matter of price, and satellite TV seems to be at an advantage here. Both cable and satellite offer similar channel line ups, though if you plan on watching a lot of foreign or international films you might opt for a satellite provider such as Dish Network or DirecTV.
That said most consumers just end up getting whichever is convenient at the time they are setting up home. No matter your choice, you’ll end up with decent service and a wide channel range which is all most consumers are looking for in the end. Buyer beware, you should know that cable TV fans are very strictly cable, and satellite TV fans very strictly satellite.
You could literally cause an argument between two otherwise friendly neighbors simply by asking them to rate satellite TV vs. cable. That said, you’ll probably find that once you make your selection, you too begin an avid supporter of one vs. the other.
About The Author:
Antigone Arthur is a successful freelance writer with 10 years of professional experience providing consumers with informative articles on such topics as DirectTV vs Dish Network, Free Satellite TV Systems, and Satellite System Tv.
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Buying Satellite TV From Online Sources
By admin | September 20, 2008
Find Out What the Real Deal is Regarding Satellite TV
Who doesn’t want to maximize their television viewing prospects inexpensively and quickly? Satellite TV provides television viewers with all of the benefits of cable service. With satellite consumers have the benefit of viewing hundreds of channels including local channels usually at a price that is more affordable than cable. So where do you go to invest in satellite TV?
Luckily, you can buy satellite TV online. In fact, I highly recommend buying satellite TV from online sources. You see, when you buy satellite TV from online sources, you are opening yourself up to hundreds of discounts, freebies and more. Most online sellers offer incredible deals on satellite TV to entice you to buy from them.
Before you invest in satellite TV you should have a solid understanding of what exactly it is. Here’s a brief intro that will help you sort fact from fiction.
Satellite TV: Operation
Satellite TV works just like a conventional television does. Radio signals transmit programming that is received through a Satellite that orbits the Earth. This satellite broadcasts a signal to a dish connected to the user’s home. Satellite TV technology enables the viewer to receive more than 200 channels from their home television, far more than a conventional television system.
There are three primary companies in the US that provide satellite television to customers:
- DirecTV
- Dish Network
- Voom
Each of these companies broadcast channels directly to your home. Your choice of providers may depend in part upon where you live, because some providers such as DirecTV cater to individuals living in rural vs. suburban areas. When choosing a provider you might consider the following:
- What you want to use your service for. For example, if you plan on using satellite primarily for internet connection and don’t live in an area where you can get cable, you should seek out the provider that is going to offer you the best service and best deal with respect to your internet connection.
- Your viewing preferences. If you are an avid sports fan and want to see more live sporting events, compare providers to see which offers the best pricing plan.
- Number of receivers. How many receivers do you think you will need? This may affect your decision to go with one provider vs. another. Most providers will offer up to four different receivers, meaning you can watch TV in four different rooms while viewing different changes.
- Affordability. Satellite TV is a good option for consumers looking to maximize their TV viewing potential without spending hundreds of dollars on a system. You can purchase satellite TV package for pennies on the dollar, and still have the option of watching more than 200 channels at any given time. Satellite TV is often a preferred choice for viewers operating on a budget.
Of the major online satellite TV providers, DirecTV is the most well known and largest, but not necessarily the best. It does provide service to both urban and rural areas.
Benefits of Satellite TV
What are the benefits of satellite TV? There is ongoing competition between cable TV and satellite TV providers about which is better. Satellite TV for the most part offers many of the same benefits as cable service. In addition, by buying satellite TV from online sources, consumers can take advantage of a number of “freebies” often thrown into a package to encourage customers to purchase satellite TV. Among the more common freebies include:
- Satellite TV dish
- Receivers
- Access Cards
- Remote Controls
- Cabling
- Installation
- Multi-system packages
Many satellite TV providers will provide equipment for multiple TV hook ups for free, but this offer is sometimes reserved for first time customers only.
Other benefits of satellite TV include access to local channels in major metropolitan areas and even in rural areas with an off air antenna. Satellite TV also offers international programming. In fact, Dish Network is the leading provider of foreign language packages and channels.
Myths and Misconceptions
There are some myths and misconceptions that abound regarding satellite TV that deserve clearing up.
Myth 1 - You have to watch the same programs on all TV sets in the house when you have satellite.
False!
You can watch different channels in each of the rooms satellite is set up in, you simply need separate satellite receivers to do this. And most companies will offer additional receivers for free, especially if your buying satellite TV from online sources.
Myth 2 - The weather consistently affects the quality of programming.
False!
Rarely the weather might affect the quality of programming. Heavy and sustained storming for example might briefly interrupt reception. However this problem is also common among cable television viewers. In fact, if you were to poll cable owners, you’d probably find that many times the cable goes out in the midst of a storm. Satellite TV might actually be considered less problem prone during inclement weather.
Myth 3 - Satellite TV can only be used in homes.
False!
Satellite TV is often available in apartment complexes. In fact, may apartment residents are able to install dishes very inconspicuously from their balconies. You should of course check with the landlord before installing any equipment, but you should be able to take advantage of the many benefits of satellite TV even from an apartment.
Myth 4 - High Speed Internet is only available through cable.
Again, not true. High speed satellite internet is available in most areas of the US, much as cable internet service is.
There are many benefits satellite TV has to offer. You’ll reap even more rewards if you decide to buy online, include free equipment and installation. I highly recommend investing in a system if you haven’t already.
About The Author:
Antigone Arthur is a successful freelance writer with 10 years of professional experience providing consumers with informative articles on such topics as Directtv vs Dish Network, Satellite System Tv, and Satellite Tv For Less.
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The Benefits of Satellite Television!
By admin | July 26, 2008
Most teenagers today won’t remember what the entertainment world was like before the days of satellite television. They simply take the hundreds of entertainment channels for granted, unlike the adults, who remember just how tedious things could get before the luxury of satellite television exploded on to our screens.
Satellite television is hugely popular in America as well as in other civilized countries around the world. There are many benefits to having satellite TV - it’s not just a case of there always being something to watch - although this is one of the main attractions for many people. However, satellite TV is also the source of a great deal of information, which can be used for education as well as
entertainment.
What Sort of Channels You Can Enjoy
Satellite television will give you access to just about every type of channel you could hope for. You will enjoy numerous channels that are packed with comedy and drama; you can relax whilst watching a wide selection of sports channels covering every type of sport you could hope for. You’ll be kept abreast of what’s happening in the world with a range of news channels that cover both national and international news; and you can enjoy the latest blockbusters with a wide choice of movie channels.
The kids will also be delighted with satellite television. They can enjoy the entertainment value of a wide choice of kid’s channels, from cartoon and comedy to drama and movies. From Disney and Nickelodeon to Cartoon Network and Fox Kids, the choice is endless, which means that on weekends and during holidays your kids will never be short of things to watch.
Your kids will also enjoy having access to a wide selection of informational channels that provide both interesting and educational programming. Channels such as Discovery Science, National Geographic and Animal Planet can help your kids to broaden their horizons as well as provide valuable information to help with their education.
And let’s not forget the incredible choice of music channels - a delight for both adults and kids. You can enjoy listening to all sorts of music, from retro or classical to pop and rock. So, as you can see your satellite television system will enable the whole family to enjoy enhanced entertainment and information.
Why Go for Satellite Television Instead of Cable?
Independent research carried out on customer satisfaction has already proven that satellite television customers enjoyed far better prices and a more enhanced service than cable television customers.
While cable customers appear to be paying more than average, receiving a limited service and forking out on monthly rental charges and additional fees, satellite television customers are able to enjoy free installation of the necessary equipment, and they do not have to pay rental for it. One simple monthly fee gives you access to crystal clear pictures, a wealth of choice and top quality service.
Getting Satellite Television Online
There are three choices of satellite television providers in the Unites States, and these are: DIRECTV, Dish Network and Voom. There are also a number of retailers from whom you can buy your satellite television equipment, and you will often find some great offers from retailer to retailer. This is why it is better to compare the deals on offers rather than just rushing into the purchase of your satellite television equipment.
The easiest way to make comparisons on the various satellite television deals being offered is to go online, where you will find all sort of excellent and cost-effective offers from satellite television retailers. You can enjoy such benefits as free installation, free equipment, heavily discounted receivers, free trials on various channels and free periods on your satellite television package.
The Internet is an effective tool with which you can quickly and easily view the various offers available from each retailer. The popularity of satellite television is huge and is expected to continue to grow in the future, so the competition between these retailers is fierce. Each will try and beat their competitors with a range of incredible deals and prices, and as consumers, we are the ones that benefit from this.
By comparing the various offers online, you can make a far more informed choice with regards to which deal is going to prove the best value for your needs and your budget, enabling you to enjoy the benefits and entertainment of satellite television at a really affordable price. With so many deals available from these retailers, it is possible to get a fabulous deal on cost and service on your satellite television package, so you can make the most of your television viewing experience.
You Can Start Enjoying Satellite TV with Speed and Ease
When you go online to browse the various satellite television deals, you can really speed up the whole process. Browsing from the comfort of your own home, you can find the most cost-effective or comprehensive deal for your needs and then place an order for the necessary equipment. Although you can install the equipment yourself, it might be better to have a professional come out and do it to ensure that you can start to enjoy your satellite television viewing experience as soon as possible. And since this service is often free of charge, there is no reason not to get a fast and professional installation.
With a choice of excellent packages to select from, you can enjoy a satellite television deal that is perfectly suited to your lifestyle and family. If you have kids, you can choose a package that incorporates the vast choice of kids television and educational channels. If you are something of a movie buff, you can select the package with the widest range of movie channels, and if you want to spend your spare time listening to the latest tunes, you can go for a package with a wide choice of music channels. The choice is impressive and there is sure to be a package that will suit the whole family.
About The Author:
Award winning author and freelance writer, Reno Charlton has completed a number of informative articles providing consumer information on such topics as Free Satelite TV Systems, Buy DirecTV, and Directv vs Cable.
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