Dish Network News

[StarvingForHDTV]

Anybody hear the news about Dish Network's new HD package?  I saw something on the AVS forum about a $9.99 deal starting in mid September which includes HDNET, HDNET Movies, Discovery HD, and ESPNHD.  I'll keep my fingers crossed that I can buy the package a la carte.

Also heard that the Superdish is scheduled to be live soon and the new receivers are also on the way.

Starving

[RobbQ]

I have been following that as well.  I have not as yet bought the 8PSK module but this may spur me to do so.  What other channels do you think are going to be offered once the superdish starts rolling out?  I know that Bravo HD is rumored to be one of them.  The Charlie Chat on Monday may enlighten us a little further but frankly he usually doesn't say much that we have not learned already through AVS and other sites.  

It sounds like the package will stay at $9.99 even once the superdish is out and other channels are added to the package.  Is that how you read it or am I just being hopeful?

Robb

[drgingras]

Starving;

You might have to wait a little longer - Charlie alluded to a possible delay in rolling out the Superdish and 811 receiver (late October vs. mid-month). The DVR921 will be released early November. Said to tune in to the Tech Chat on 10/13 for details and dates. To get the new HD programming pack in September, you'd still have to install a dish500, then replace it with Superdish by about mid-2004. The good news is that current subs were offered an upgrade cost of $399 for 811 and Superdish with programming commitment. I suspect new subs will get at least this, maybe better. 921 stays at $999, no mention of deals for either new or existing subs. Just a reiteration of their monthly DVR fees.

Robb;

No mention about specific additional HD programming.

Although it wasn't discussed on the Charlie Chat, I've heard that retailers are about to offer the 8psk at half price (approx $50 + s&h) to help get current 6000 subs in the game. Claude Grenier of Metro25 in Detroit (moderator over at DBSforums) has 100 coming in at this price.

Remaining 6000 HD receivers (with 8psk) are being offered to current subs at $199 when subbing to the annual HD programming. That's about $400 off MSRP - wow!

Dave

Edit: looks like the 8PSK can be had for free with a 1-year comittment to HD package. Good summary of chat hereCharlie Chat Summary

Dave

[StarvingForHDTV]

Thanks for the info Dave.

Starving