Satellite TV shopping tips

December 26, 2007 4:26 pm admin Satellite TV Shopping

If you believe all the hype, then you’d be nuts to stick with archaic cable in lieu of the better quality and cheaper satellite TV systems that are now available. But, is satellite really better? And what do you need to know before making the big switch? According to those who’ve done it (including me), there are five basic things you need to know (and ask), before signing up with either of the two main satellite providers: Dish Network or Direct TV.

Satellite TV signal
While both companies tout widespread availability throughout the United States, the fact still remains that in a few areas, a signal is hard to get. Whether or not you live in a rural area may not matter, some town and even urban customers are unable to receive satellite signals due to blockages caused by higher buildings or even large neighborhood trees.

But did you know that sometimes even if you can’t get a signal from one company, you may be able to get it from another? Or if you find that you’re unable to use one provider, you may be able to use the other.

Cost of satellite equipment setup
Both Dish Network and Direct TV “officially” charge for their roof satellites, indoor receivers and installation, however, few new customers (if any these days), actually end up paying for them due to a myriad of special offers, coupons and rebates offered by both companies. The important thing to remember when considering switching to a satellite system is that there will eventually be a new-customer special with whatever company you choose offering free equipment and installation. Just be patient and sign up when they are being offered.

Programming choices with Dish Network and DirecTV
If there’s one thing that satellite TV has over old-fashioned cable, it’s variety. With more than 250 channels offered by Dish Network and 280 by Direct TV, it seems as if there’s a station for everyone in the family, no matter what their interest. While Direct TV allows subscribers to customize their viewing package (unlike Dish which only offers select packages), Dish Network does offer more Latino and international programming for those who are interested.

And when it comes to sports programming, Direct TV has been named “top dog” in their sporting coverage, offering unique packages for all major profession sports. Although Dish may not offer the same amount (or types) of sporting coverage, they do offer ample choices for ay sports lover to choose for both national and international games.

For more details on Dish Network deals, click here; for DirecTV deals, click here.

Cost of satellite TV deals
If there’s one thing the satellite companies are good at, it’s being able to reach as many different kinds of customers as possible.

From their basic viewing package for $29.99 that gives subscribers all of their local channels plus a handful of interesting extras; premium packages that offer most of the 200-plus specialty channels on the airwaves; to high-end movie channels and sports or music packages, that can run $100 a month, or more, satellite subscribers have an endless array of channels to choose from to meet their lifestyle, specialty interests, and budget.

Satellite system problems with the weather
It is true that’s severe weather can sometimes knock out a satellite signal – but it can do the same to cable – and usually more often. Since satellite systems do not rely on ground cables for transmission, problems with lines is never an issue. Another plus: the two leading satellite systems: Dish Network and Direct TV both offer crystal clear high definition transmission as part of their service, unlike cable companies which charge a premium for HD service.