Thread: HD Service - need help

I'm taking the plunge this weekend into HD, purchasing either a 46" or 52" 1080p LCD. Make/Model insignificant - what I need to know is which HD Service Provider offers the most bang for the buck?

I currently have Time Warner Digital Cable with Roadrunner broadband internet and a wireless router. It's been great for my family with the SD content, but I'm paying $100 per month after the stupid equipment fees ($50 cable / $50 internet).

I also have 2 SD TIVOs with lifetime membership paid in full (I already earned out the monthly fees, but I think I'll regret this as we get into HD).

Looking at Time Warner, DirecTV and Dish Network. What can I expect to get in terms of HD service and equipment from these providers? Free HD Receivers or HD DVRs would be great (I hate equipment fees), as well as the most/best programming and channels - I believe Time Warner will upgrade my receiver for free.

Any advice is appreciated.

I think DirecTV is offering the best deals right now. Check out satelliteguys.us forums for all the latest, especially all the best deals. I'm paying a lot less than I was for TW cable, and I like the picture better, especially HD.

DirecTV is the way to go, I have so much HD that I wet myself on a regular basis.

Your bill won't change with TW. The HD is included. However, you do have to trade in your box for a HD one.

Try this link for a comparison chart of several satellite and cable providers when it comes to HD availability. HDTV programming compared - HDTV World - CNET.com

You may also consider Verizon Fios if it is available in your area. They are expanding in their telephone service area. If you local phone service is Verizon then there is a chance it may be available to you. Verizon | FiOS TV

time warner only charges you more if you want their HD-DVR. and i don't think its that much more. the hd selection on time warner is anemic, but i'm too damn lazy to switch to satellite. maybe you should consider changing your phone service to time warner. that way you can get a package deal for all three services (phone + tv + internet)

A common misconception is that TW doesn't charge for HD. They don't charge for the Standard HD Channels. Unless this has changed since I left in February, you'll have to pay extra to get ALL of their HD lineup. Switch to DirecTV.

I have all DirecTV's HD Lineup and I pay $65 per month for the first year. They mop up the floor with Time Warner, hands down.

Cable sucks, get Directv. Trust me.

Oh and for the TV, get the 52'' Samsung LCD 5 series. You wont be disappointed.

DirecTV plus they are the only one to offer Center Ice, if that's important to you!