Top 5 Satellite TV Programming Considerations
Programming choices on satellite TV can be nearly endless. Satellite TV companies are competing vigorously with each other, and also cable companies to offer the best programming packages. Some of the most popular choices are offered only by certain providers, so it's important to check and make sure that what you want is really available.
One of the biggest concerns (rightly so), particularly for new TV buyers, is high definition options. Not all programming packages are available in high definition, so this will likely weigh into your decision-making. It's also important to remember that just because programming is digital does not mean that it is HD. Sports programming is particularly important in this regard - nobody wants to pay for expensive packages and have them not be available for the high definition TV they just bought.
Sports options, as mentioned above, often come first when considering programming. Sports packages run the gambit from collegiate to professional and include NFL Sunday Ticket, NHL Center Ice, College Gameday, MLB Extra Innings, as well as a variety of other packages. Most are available in HD, but its best to check with your provider about the availability and compatibility with your current or desired equipment.
Movie options are also a huge consideration for some customers. Widely available on both satellite and cable, packages combining and including HBO, Showtime, and Cinemax service are becoming more and more common. For the best deals, ask about possible promotional packages, which usually expire after a few months. Although this might seem like a deal breaker, you can often re-negotiate for another promotion soon after a lengthy discussion with the customer service representative.
Nature programming is another area that's becoming increasingly popular. Formerly relegated to academics and a particular realm of interest, series like BBC's Planet Earth have brought nature films decidedly into the mainstream. Your satellite service can include channels like Animal Planet, Discovery, Travel Channel - all often available in high definition. With nature programming in particular, much of the videos have been filmed for the first time with high-def equipment, making it a must-see if you have a newly purchased HD set.
Local programming is a final, but often overlooked consideration. Many people have slight issues making their satellite service compatible with all of their local channels, since only some local channels are broadcast by satellite. In addition, federal regulations in the United States often make it illegal for satellite companies to offer generic (often New York or LA) local programming to subscribers outside of that particular geographic region. The lesson here, check your local availability through antenna before installing service, or just consult your preferred provider. Satellite TV programming options can be overwhelming an often confusing, but breaking down the available options can save you time and money. A thoughtful discussion with your family about what you want out of your TV service (HD, special sports packages, etc.) will be the most effective way to approach this discussion with the service provider.
One of the biggest concerns (rightly so), particularly for new TV buyers, is high definition options. Not all programming packages are available in high definition, so this will likely weigh into your decision-making. It's also important to remember that just because programming is digital does not mean that it is HD. Sports programming is particularly important in this regard - nobody wants to pay for expensive packages and have them not be available for the high definition TV they just bought.
Sports options, as mentioned above, often come first when considering programming. Sports packages run the gambit from collegiate to professional and include NFL Sunday Ticket, NHL Center Ice, College Gameday, MLB Extra Innings, as well as a variety of other packages. Most are available in HD, but its best to check with your provider about the availability and compatibility with your current or desired equipment.
Movie options are also a huge consideration for some customers. Widely available on both satellite and cable, packages combining and including HBO, Showtime, and Cinemax service are becoming more and more common. For the best deals, ask about possible promotional packages, which usually expire after a few months. Although this might seem like a deal breaker, you can often re-negotiate for another promotion soon after a lengthy discussion with the customer service representative.
Nature programming is another area that's becoming increasingly popular. Formerly relegated to academics and a particular realm of interest, series like BBC's Planet Earth have brought nature films decidedly into the mainstream. Your satellite service can include channels like Animal Planet, Discovery, Travel Channel - all often available in high definition. With nature programming in particular, much of the videos have been filmed for the first time with high-def equipment, making it a must-see if you have a newly purchased HD set.
Local programming is a final, but often overlooked consideration. Many people have slight issues making their satellite service compatible with all of their local channels, since only some local channels are broadcast by satellite. In addition, federal regulations in the United States often make it illegal for satellite companies to offer generic (often New York or LA) local programming to subscribers outside of that particular geographic region. The lesson here, check your local availability through antenna before installing service, or just consult your preferred provider. Satellite TV programming options can be overwhelming an often confusing, but breaking down the available options can save you time and money. A thoughtful discussion with your family about what you want out of your TV service (HD, special sports packages, etc.) will be the most effective way to approach this discussion with the service provider.
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