Well, I got my HD Channels and a HD DVR now. I am a little disappointed in the selection of HD Channels, but the new channels I get are really nice.

As for the parade of homes, I am going to try to go to that, as we are looking to get out of this apartment, but we were looking in Prattville, but now we have decided to look in the city some more.

4bama,

Which market does NBC 13 serve?

With a good outside antenna you should receive CBS13 from Red Mountain in Birmingham. I'm in South Clay county (almost in Goodwater) which is not far from Wetumpka and get it fine.

CBS13 serves a 100 mile radius from Red Mountain.

Is there any thing going on about APT (Alabama Public Television) picking up the National PBS HD feed. Since they dropped it a while back, there's not much there to watch.

The PBSHD live feed of "The War" is on now. APT26-1 had technical problems during the first episode and some of the second episode but are now telecasting excellent HD live from PBS.

I spoke to Donna Baker, Programming Director for APT last Thursday. They have to "Manually" switch their transmissions to the correct aspect ratio until their encoder/software is corrected to automatically detect/switch to the correct aspect ratio.

She also said their are no plans to switch back to "full time PBS feeds" but will continue to "pick and choose" PBS programming. I think it will be after the analog transmissions cease in Feburary, 2009 before we see any major programming changes from APT.

Since APT is now transmitting 4 digital channels I expressed my opinion to Donna that one of those channels (26-1) should be for adults...cartoons and childrens programming can be on 26-2, 26-3.

If more viewers expressed their opinion to Donna it could eventually lead to some changes for APT programming choices.

They might be the first in Alabama but I have been watching HD local news in Atlanta for over a year. ;)

Who do I call at DISH to get the Atlanta stations to?

Who do I call at DISH to get the Atlanta stations to?

I'm sure Scott can tell you how how to circumvent the law here and subscribe, since he so often boasts about having the atlanta stations here. :)

Who do I call at DISH to get the Atlanta stations to?


I have a legit address in Atlanta. I called up a retailer buddy and did a Dish Mover. 30 min. later I had Atlanta Locals. Prior to that call I logged into Dish's website and changed my billing address to my Atlanta Address.
Dish doesn't care what the phone number is as long as all receivers on the account phone home from the same number.
Hopefully, My 211 won't want to Phone home for the next 2 weeks of the Parade. If it does I'll just run it back to the house and make it happy.

I have a Directv account In Atlanta that I will Probably use in Montgomery also when Direct fires up enough HD to make it woth while.

I've been enjoying Knology hd for about 6 months now.... any word on them picking some of the new HD channels though?

When I watch tv anyone wearing stripes or checks seem to flicker. Is this what they call screendoor effect?

When I watch tv anyone wearing stripes or checks seem to flicker. Is this what they call screendoor effect?

That sounds more like moire.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moir%C3%A9_pattern (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moir%C3%A9_pattern)

Screen door effect is hard to describe without using a screen door :) If you stand within a foot of my projection screen you can see it. Since fixed pixel devices have grids, the pattern becomes apparent when viewed in close proximity. Some devices have large enough gaps between the pixels that it becomes visible from further away, and becomes a distraction.

is this a brodcast problem or my tv

thank you for the info

Charles,

What you're describing sound a bit like line twitter caused by deinterlacing.

Do you see this with all sources? Is there a setting on your display that changes from video mode to film mode?

Just on Brighthouse not dvd.

Does anyone know a local Dish network or direct tv installer you can trust? I need to get some prices and questions answered. I feel like Brighthouse is charging to much

Does anyone know a local Dish network or direct tv installer you can trust? I need to get some prices and questions answered. I feel like Brighthouse is charging to much


Dish Network Retailer
Jim Frizzel
334-799-3845

Thank you . He is trustworthy and you have used him?

Charles,

You might be able to negotiate a lower rate with Brighthouse if they think they're about to loose you.

On the otherhand, Dish sure has a lot of HD to offer and has the capacity to add more. We don't really know how close to being maxed out the cable system is.

I just need prices for same through dish

I am paying 112 now with discount. Goes up to 126 in January

Thank you . He is trustworthy and you have used him?

Jim and I know each other well. Everyone in Montgomery knows Jim.

He worked for Jimmy's Car stereo for years and Cohens before that before getting into Home 3 years ago.

I called and left message. Is it ok to use your name for reference

Hey JIM,
How do u like new shows this season? My favorites, Big bang theory, Dirty sexy money, Private practice, Life ,Journey man. Thank goodness for DVR

Several good ones and a few duds.

What's interesting is that I can record just about everything on the Tivo without using the Motorola DVR to pick up the shows with time conflicts.

With all the first run programming, I'm not buying much in the way of DVDs and HD-DVDs, although Transformers is a likely buy.

Been looking at subwoofers again. What is it about subwoofers where I have to upgrade this often. Wish someone would come out with a patch that would keep me from pushing the "add to basket" icon. lol

P.S. how's that guys, 4 subjects in 1 post. :)

Been looking at subwoofers again. What is it about subwoofers where I have to upgrade this often. Wish someone would come out with a patch that would keep me from pushing the "add to basket" icon. lol :)

Perhaps you should go a little easier on them? :D

I'm still using his old subwoofer. You should see what his home theatre looks like and sounds like. My wife still wont let me talk to him. ha ha

I'm still using his old subwoofer. You should see what his home theatre looks like and sounds like. My wife still wont let me talk to him. ha ha

Well, I guess I need to visit WAKA again soon and go see JimP before someone else gets a deal! Probably should clean out the doghouse first tho..:)

Buy a mans Sub and you won't have to keep replacing it. :D

http://www.klipsch.com/products/details/rt-12d.aspx

I called and left message. Is it ok to use your name for reference

Yep.

Are you wanting Equipment/Install Prices or Package Prices?

Package Prices are on their Website. Click on Dish Builder.

Comparing Brighthouse to Dish is like comparing Apples to Watermelons.

Let me know when Brighthouse gets 38 HD channels.

install prices I guess

Buy a mans Sub and you won't have to keep replacing it. :D

http://www.klipsch.com/products/details/rt-12d.aspx

Oh, those are weenie subs.. try these:

http://www.turbosound.com/products/subs/subs.htm :eek:

Oh, those are weenie subs.. try these:

http://www.turbosound.com/products/subs/subs.htm :eek:

They aren't self powered.

Oh, those are weenie subs.. try these:

http://www.turbosound.com/products/subs/subs.htm :eek:

Where were you when I justified this to my wife? http://www.svsound.com/products-sub-box-plus2.cfm My 140 lb monster now looks smaller :)

There's a lot of great info on SVS Subwoofers here on the AVS forums, they are actually quite a bargain. I've got a pretty tough room since my theater is on the first floor and has open staircases to the two floors above, but this thing moves intestines :)

They aren't self powered.

Who wants to compromise with a self powered unit when you can have a real amp?:D

http://www.bryston.ca/28bsst_m.html

http://www.crownaudio.com/amp_htm/maspec_3.htm

Besides, I think you missed the point.. which needmoretoys got it.. :)

The problem with those suggestions is that in a year, I'll be looking to upgrade, again. sheeze.

Now here is a sub that might work. :D

http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/2/web/2606000-2606999/2606374_81_full.jpg

Cool

Yep, this is one of those guys that rearranges your insides when it hit those low notes.

JimP, have you been having any problems with BH lately? My entire HD tier and digital tier is pixelating. The signal is strong, but no picture. I have called BH for a service call, but it has been two days and nothing. I called tech support last night and asked them to "hit" my cable cards. Nothing. All I can say is thank God for my antenna.

BTW, I am loving Chuck, Journeyman, Bionic Woman, Big Bang Theory...I have recorded all of Cane but haven't watched any of it. I recorded the PBS documentary "The War", but haven't watched much of it. The CSI's still rock my sound system. They are amazing.

Brian,

Mine looks fine. No pixelating, freezing, tiling, etc. That can be caused by too strong a signal as well as too weak a signal. Only solution is to get the cable guy out there to check out the signal strength and to check that the connectors outside are clean. Seems that connectors go bad on occassion. If you've had some new construction nearby, adding that service is likely to have unbalanced the signal.

A fundamental problem with Brighthouse's signal is that changes in outside temperature will in all likelihood cause picture problems. As the temperature changes, the resistance to all that cabling will change which in turn affects your signal strength at the box. So when you go from 95 degrees to 55 degrees (think cold front moving in Thursday/Friday), you can pretty much count on having signal problems. On the bright side, it should feel pretty nice getting out tomorrow morning. :)

Cane is pretty good.It's a cross between DALLAS AND MIAMI - VICE

http://www.edesignaudio.com/edv2/gallery/481_large.jpg :D

although I have no use for a supersub, as my office/ht shares a wall with the boys bedroom :( Onkyo HTIB for me.

[QUOTE=Thoraudio;11876166although I have no use for a supersub[/QUOTE]

Man, those cones scream "stick your fingers in me" to the kids..

The problem with those suggestions is that in a year, I'll be looking to upgrade, again. sheeze.

I'm only a mile from you if you want to demo a SVS, worst case you can add a second in a year:)

Considering this thing has to pump into a basically open 4100 sq ft house, I'm pretty impressed.

A second one does sound like a good idea someday. It's hard not to like a sub that arrives on a pallet.

Which SVS?

I'm looking at the PB ultra 13.

I've got the 12 plus/2 (link in post 3033). The 13 didn't exist then, but from what little I have read the 13 should be impressive as well.

The whole forward single vs dual down firing arguments are in other sections of the avs forum.

has anyone noticed locals sound loud when switching from network feed.

LSU @ UK on WAKA has lots of audio/video breakups. Picture went SD but still breakups. Unwatchable OTA and on Knology cable.

As blp noticed, we are having issues with our HD signal. Not sure what the problem is yet, but we are working to resolve it as quickly as possible. For some reason, these problems always show up on the weekend...

FYI, We do have HD redundancy in the plans for WAKA, we're just not there yet, it's a pile of money and NO place to install it,WAKA's full. Thanks to Russ for looking into the issue. The reason these problems only happen during weekends or during popular HD programs is that the equipment gets bored during SD time and plans a revolt to make sure it gets some attention. Kinda like Wifey...

Anyone on Brighthouse recieving Turner Broadcast Network HD (305)? It's showing up in the Guide but when I go to it black screen saying channel will be available shortly. Great more RERUNS. Well at least it is HD. i WANT MY FOX IN HD

Anyone on Brighthouse recieving Turner Broadcast Network HD (305)? It's showing up in the Guide but when I go to it black screen saying channel will be available shortly. Great more RERUNS. Well at least it is HD. i WANT MY FOX IN HD

I just checked, and my TiVo Series 3 is showing Ch. 305/TBS HD also. It says "to be announced" in the program guide. I can't look for a signal right now since both tuners are busy recording.

I second your motion for Fox in HD. Thankfully, my antenna works fine, and the TiVo DVR can record from the antenna signal.

Anyone on Brighthouse recieving Turner Broadcast Network HD (305)? It's showing up in the Guide but when I go to it black screen saying channel will be available shortly. Great more RERUNS. Well at least it is HD. i WANT MY FOX IN HD

NLCS game is on it right now.

305, TBSHD, on Brighthouse cable is live.

Program guide on motorola DVR has information populated.

On Tivo S3, it just says "to be announced". Since I'm hooked up to the net with the S3, I'm a little surprised that it hasn't filled in the program guide information. I think it checks every 15 minutes or so. They must not have the program guide information yet.

Have to say that the picture quality on TBSHD looks to be a lower quality HD. It doesn't look like Discovery. Brian and Charles. How does it look to you guys??

Edit (Tuesday morning) Later last night after I originally made this post, I could see that some of the programming looked pretty good while other programming didn't look very good. Some of it was the stretched effect Brian mentioned.

TBS is working for me, too. With the dish/dtv guys adding more HD by the day, I hope the cable operators can keep up. It'll be great to see the sporting events in HD. I can't really tell much about the quality yet. They are showing an SD episode of Sex and the City at the moment. I hate how they stretch these SD shows. They already look terrible on my LCD.

Not on here 5:45 am this morning. I think I read something about just for ballgames, not sure.

Not to change the subject or anything fellas, but has anyone here tried the Circuit City BOGO Deal here in Montgomery?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=923307

Well, I went, and low and behold it worked! I got Transformers and knocked up for $32 with tax! Also, they had the same deal for Blu-ray films. The only films that qualify for this are the ones that cost $24.99 and $29.99, but definitely go asap as this deal won't last!

My tbs still not on .Brighthouse service call wed.

Brighthouse just left. Has to call someone, will call me later. No help

OK, He came back went up pole found a connector loose and now it works. Funny how all other channels worked with loose connection at pole.

According to AntennaWeb there is an digital broadcast of CW out of Tuskegee (WBMM-DT 22-1). I'm only able to pick up 22 in analog. Is anyone in the Millbrook area able to pick this up OTA?

I can't get it here

According to AntennaWeb there is an digital broadcast of CW out of Tuskegee (WBMM-DT 22-1). I'm only able to pick up 22 in analog. Is anyone in the Millbrook area able to pick this up OTA?

I spoke to the CW about a year ago and they said they did have the digital antenna, tested it and then it broke. They shipped it off overseas to get it fixed. I called a few months again and they only said that they're hoping to have it up soon. I only get the analog here in Wetumpka. They are owned by ABC32. I don't understand why they don't just make it a subchannel. The CBS channel out of Dothan has the CW and Mynetwork as their subs.

FYI: MyNetworkTV told me their digital signal should be up September or October. The clock is ticking for them. Frazier has thier equipment on order and should be up after the first of the year.

Hey everyone on Brighthouse, there may be more hd added soon. Do a google search Brighthouse and new hd channels.HD Channel Line-Up - Bright House Networks Tampa Bay

No SciFi channel. blah blah blah.

Any word on if Knology will add more HD Channels?

Good news for Charter customers. I got an actual letter in the mail announcing new channels starting Nov 12th.

In the past, the new channels have just shown up with no fanfare or announcement at all.

We are slated to get:

FSN & Fox Sports South HD - 760
MTV HD - 761
A&E HD - 762
HISTORY CHANNEL HD - 763
THE MOVIE CHANNEL HD - 764

I've had Chater for two years now (Knology is not available here) and this is the most new HD channels added at once.

Charter is also adding The Sportsman Channel, Fine Living, Fox Business, TV One, American Life TV and Babyfirst TV.

I seriously can't wait to get my house so I can choose which cable provider I can have.

JimP and other TiVo HD users,

Here is a link to info on new service updates including eSATA external storage, multi room viewiing, TiVo to go, etc.

http://crave.cnet.com/8301-1_105-9799432-1.html?tag=cnetfd.mt

Thanks Brian,

I've been holding off of getting an external drive till it was officially supported by TIVO.

Good news for Charter customers. I got an actual letter in the mail announcing new channels starting Nov 12th.

In the past, the new channels have just shown up with no fanfare or announcement at all.

We are slated to get:

FSN & Fox Sports South HD - 760
MTV HD - 761
A&E HD - 762
HISTORY CHANNEL HD - 763
THE MOVIE CHANNEL HD - 764

I've had Chater for two years now (Knology is not available here) and this is the most new HD channels added at once.

Charter is also adding The Sportsman Channel, Fine Living, Fox Business, TV One, American Life TV and Babyfirst TV.

That's great. Out of that list FSN/Fox Sports HD, and maybe the History Channel are the only ones I'd like to see in HD. Although, if you think about it, how far back can the History channel go with HD?--way back to 2000? LOL

I see they still do not have NFL Network.

Watched the AL/Tn game on 12. Great game (unless you're a Vols fan). However, standard def sports--painful to watch. Al/Tn on JP Sports--how the mighty have fallen.

Watched the AL/Tn game on 12. Great game (unless you're a Vols fan). However, standard def sports--painful to watch. Al/Tn on JP Sports--how the mighty have fallen.

That would now be Lincoln-Financial Sports (ex Jp'er here, 16 years).Worked a few ACC/SEC games in the past.. :cool:

Not good for you SEC fans, but some ACC BB will be in HD I'm told.:)

That would now be Lincoln-Financial Sports (ex Jp'er here, 16 years).Worked a few ACC/SEC games in the past.. :cool:

Not good for you SEC fans, but some ACC BB will be in HD I'm told.:)

Oh yea, I knew that. Still, standard def by any other name...

After hearing about Charter and Brighthouse, I decided to give Knology a ring, and they said they wouldn't make any announcements on new HD channels (if any) until after the first of the year.

Well, that sucks. I have their HD package now, and it is very limited. I have all of the major networks, a few sport channels(ESPN, NBCU), HDNET, and HDNET movies. They also have HBO and Starz in HD, but I wasn't wanting to pay another $16 a month for them. I probably should have though. I really want the other HD Channels though(Sci-Fi and History channel in particular).

Anyone know why the NFL games on WAKA through BrightHouse in Wetumpka were not shown in HD on Sunday?

Sorry, Can't help you there. I know they were on HD on Knology in Montgomery though.

Most of the time they are in HD. They forget to flip the switch some times and sometimes it is not a HD broadcast

WAKA must have forgotten to flip the switch because it was not in HD even thou it was advertised as a HD game.

Mark and Russ from WAKA are also here, so don't think your feedback goes unnoticed. :)

This past weekend, the NFL game was in HD at my viewing location. You know, sometimes they switch to a SD game within a HD game....could you have seen this? cobolisdead saw HD on knology (not a factor) as well.

I watched the Tenn/Houston in SD on Knology. I flipped back and forth with
Fox's game and the race on 32 both in HD. Maybe I was on the analog channel but I thought I checked the channel nbr for CBS HD 902. I guess not.

This past weekend, the NFL game was in HD at my viewing location. You know, sometimes they switch to a SD game within a HD game....could you have seen this? cobolisdead saw HD on knology (not a factor) as well.

No, I watched almost all of the noon game, start to finish, and it never changed to HD. Guess it was just a quirk with my system.

I have a couple questions. I currently have Charter, don't like the 11 HD channels I have. bill is over 97 just for the cable. If I go with Dish can I pickup the local HD reliably with an antenna? If so can I use one in my attic, or do I need to mount it next to the Dish outside. Which antenna would be best. I live in Prattville. Charter is Ok but Dish has a DVR that you can view from two tv's(LR and MBR). Anyone regret switching. I read through quite a few posts but didn't really get what I was looking for.
thanks
steve

Stoner51,

The dynamics of satellite TV has recently changed with DirectTV's addition of a boatload (yes, a technical term for "a lot") of HD channels.

If they're certain channels that you're interested in, I'd be sure to research them to be sure that its not just some sloppy upconversion (TBS does this).

As for your antenna situation, you're only limited by how much you're willing to spend and how much ugly you're willing to tolerate. As for the effectiveness of an antenna in your attic, it'll depend on several factors such as if you're house such as surrounding terrane. Its generally better to put them outside.

Something you might want to think about. This past month, I'm mostly watching the major networks which are receivable with my outside antenna. So, for the $140ish I'm paying for cable (includes internet), I'm paying a lot for the few cable shows I watch. Its as though the cable channels that I usually watch are either in reruns or have shifted their programming to something I'm not interested in. Just a thought.

I have a couple questions. I currently have Charter, don't like the 11 HD channels I have. bill is over 97 just for the cable. If I go with Dish can I pickup the local HD reliably with an antenna? If so can I use one in my attic, or do I need to mount it next to the Dish outside. Which antenna would be best. I live in Prattville. Charter is Ok but Dish has a DVR that you can view from two tv's(LR and MBR). Anyone regret switching. I read through quite a few posts but didn't really get what I was looking for.
thanks
steve

I would recommend going with Direct TV if you go with a satellite service, as they have the most HD channels. As for the local stuff, just get a goo d outdoor antenna and mount it to your roof, and you should be able to pick up a good deal of stations even in Prattville.

I would recommend going with Direct TV if you go with a satellite service, as they have the most HD channels..

I have TWC,D* and E*. I'd recommend DirecTv at this time.

I have a couple questions. I currently have Charter, don't like the 11 HD channels I have. bill is over 97 just for the cable. If I go with Dish can I pickup the local HD reliably with an antenna? If so can I use one in my attic, or do I need to mount it next to the Dish outside. Which antenna would be best. I live in Prattville. Charter is Ok but Dish has a DVR that you can view from two tv's(LR and MBR). Anyone regret switching. I read through quite a few posts but didn't really get what I was looking for.
thanks
steve

I had Charter a year ago. I am like you in that I wanted more hd. I switched to Dish. If you want a better dvr, there is none better than Dish. If you want ALOT more hd, go with Direct. Most hd channels out there are not full time and not even part time. I get about 40 hd and I watch probably about 75% hd. The sd on Dish and Direct is not that good at all(depending the type of tv you have). Digital on cable is alot better than sd on sat. I have not regretted my choice one bit. Charter is probably the worst tv provider there is.

Pardon change of subject. My abc on Brighthouse shows at night say they are in dolby digital but I have know center channel sound. This is just like Universal. Do you have same problem or do you think it is local station, or network or Brighthouse?

You guys recomending D* over E* must not reasearch much.

Does D* have more HD that E* right now? Yes for the past 15 days! :rolleyes:

Will E* have more channels? yes in the future.

Will one be better than the other? The jury is still out.

Does D* have locals? Nope not even in SD. OTA only
Does E* have locals? yes SD only except for OTA

Of those 70 channels D* is currently boasting about how many will you actually watch?
NFL? Get D*
Big Ten? Get E*

Bottom line do your research on what is currently avaible and don't make your decision on D*s promises because they have been promising locals here for almost 10 years.

Pardon change of subject. My abc on Brighthouse shows at night say they are in dolby digital but I have know center channel sound. This is just like Universal. Do you have same problem or do you think it is local station, or network or Brighthouse?

Local issue. You need to call WNCF.

Pardon change of subject. My abc on Brighthouse shows at night say they are in dolby digital but I have know center channel sound. This is just like Universal. Do you have same problem or do you think it is local station, or network or Brighthouse?

After reading this I started my recording of "Pushing Daises" from last night. There was no center channel sound. I watch OTA so it's not Brighthouse.

where can you find a list of all the HD channels the both D and E have to offer. there are only certain channels that I watch. I think I like E DVR better I like the fact that it has a dual tuner I can watch in the bedroom and the Livingroom. D may have the same not sure.

where can you find a list of all the HD channels the both D and E have to offer. there are only certain channels that I watch. I think I like E DVR better I like the fact that it has a dual tuner I can watch in the bedroom and the Livingroom. D may have the same not sure.

Go to each website and they have a list for hd channels. The dvr for Direct is a dual tuner but only means you can record one program and watch another. The dish dvr has tv1 and tv2. The hddvr tv1 is hd and tv2 is sd. You can record hd from both but only view hd from tv1.

Center channel not onn abc tonight also

bedroom tv is just sd so not a hangup. I will look more into directv

D* counts all sorts of non-national channels in their "over 70" count ... right now I have the score as E* 42, D* 47 ... but some people like to add RSNs and PPVs.

D* counts all sorts of non-national channels in their "over 70" count ... right now I have the score as E* 42, D* 47 ... but some people like to add RSNs and PPVs.

Both sat. companies lie like hell. Direct claims certain channels that all do not get and now Dish is doing the same thing. Dish claims to have over 70 national hd channels which id bu^& sh*#. I have Dish and i only get 41.

I just counted mine on E* and lost count at 90 so go figure.

Unless I am missing some, I only have 11 HD Channels with Knology.

I count 14 on knology which includes HBO, Starz, and the locals. Still more than Charter by a long shot. :)

My TiVo Series 3 just added a digital channel on its own. Ch. 24.1. I can't get a signal though. JimP, have you had this experience?

I just counted mine on E* and lost count at 90 so go figure.

You are as misleading as Direct and Dish. Ppv hd does not count. Unless you pay extra for NBA and NHL those do not count either. Sounds like you might have worked for Enron. :D

I count 14 on knology which includes HBO, Starz, and the locals. Still more than Charter by a long shot. :)

I forgot about PBS! That makes it 12 plus the two movie channels that they want an additional $16 for.

I went by TV 32 ABC and talked to them about sound problem. They just called me and said they were not aware of the problem and had made some changes and problem should be fixed. If not call back Monday. We will see in about 90 mins.

It works! They fixed there dolby digital. Now I have a center channel

My TiVo Series 3 just added a digital channel on its own. Ch. 24.1. I can't get a signal though. JimP, have you had this experience?

Seems that I got the Tivo message yesterday and wasn't able to tune the channel. But I do have a fully populated program guide. :rolleyes:

Just rechecked and same thing. Message at bottom of screen reads "searching for channel", which could either mean that they not broadcasting, its on low power or my antennas aren't aim towards their transmitter.

Is anyone getting 24.1???

Charles,

They're just prime for a good Holloween joke.

Center channel this week, subwoofer next week. :)

I can't believe they had no idea anything was wrong.One call and it is fixed.Anyone have the number for Universal network? Hey Jim check out moonlight on cbs now.

Just finished watching it.

Good show.

You can catch up with pilot episode ABC.COM.

Since I got the DISH software update late last week, wheneven WAKA HD is selected, the audio from all the OTA HD channels disappears. When the 722 receiver is rebooted, the audio reappears on all channels except WAKA HD. On WAKA HD ,the sound is fine for local programing and commercials , the sound is fine, but when the national HD feed is shown, the sound is gone. This problem has been reported nationally but are other people having this issue in the Montgomery area?

Since I got the DISH software update late last week, wheneven WAKA HD is selected, the audio from all the OTA HD channels disappears. When the 722 receiver is rebooted, the audio reappears on all channels except WAKA HD. On WAKA HD ,the sound is fine for local programing and commercials , the sound is fine, but when the national HD feed is shown, the sound is gone. This problem has been reported nationally but are other people having this issue in the Montgomery area?

This problem has been reported to DISH and their software update to correct this is supposed to be sent to the 622/722 receivers this week.

A quick way to restore audio to any OTA channel without rebooting, which takes 5 or 6 minutes is:

1. Tune to the OTA channel missing audio.
2. Menu 6-9
3. Left tab to the vertical list of OTA channels
4. Down tab to the channel you want audio restored.
5. Wait for the signal to "Lock" and the green signal strength meter to appear
6. Press "View" to return to live TV

That's it. Audio will be restored on that channel.

For DISH customers with VIP622/722 receivers L447 software downloaded this morning and the OTA audio problems are fixed. This is the quickest I've seen DISH fix a problem...

Question about waka tv 8 cbs? During all Sat. college football games my sound goes back and forth from DD to stereo all during the game Is this my problem or network. No big deal

can someone on dish or brighthouse please check sound on universal . I have no center channel, and check and see if northern exposure is in 16.9 format. thanks

I've been absent from the forum for a while and was wondering if there were any rumblings of possible increased power levels coiming for WNCF-32 or WCOV-20??? Stuck down here in south Crenshaw an ABC and a FOX OTA station is hard to come by...tropo from Mobile/Pens is just too "trying" (did manage to watch FSU fleece BC, though<g>).
Thanks!
Ed

Wow, where did everyone go?

Ed

Wow, where did everyone go?

Ed

I'm still here. Anybody in the Wetumpka area having problems with FOX. I've been getting a lot of drop outs, pixelation, etc. lately. (Although the only show I watch on Fox is "House". Don't know if it's related to low power, atmospheric conditions or my setup. However, all of the other local HD channels come in fine with no problems. Stan Dean

Same here Stan.

House was tough to watch.

Same here Stan.

House was tough to watch.

Thanks, Jim. Good to know it's not just me. Has anybody heard if FOX has any concrete plans to up the power on their digital signal. I believe at one time we heard that they were planning to use WSFA's tower (not sure if I remember that one correctly). Stan

Thanks, Jim. Good to know it's not just me. Has anybody heard if FOX has any concrete plans to up the power on their digital signal. I believe at one time we heard that they were planning to use WSFA's tower (not sure if I remember that one correctly). Stan

The last time I talked to the Fox20 station engineer he said it would probably not happen until they cease the analog transmission in Feb, 2009.

They have an application in to the FCC to begin transmitting digital signals on their UHF channel 20 frequency instead of their temporary assignment now. They will then use their analog tower. He said this was mandated by $$$ considerations...doing it this was would reduce overall costs in buying new equipment.

We discussed this in earlier messages here and urged everyone to contact the station owner(s) and complain if they wanted an earlier full-power digital signal. Not sure if anyone did but right now it looks like early 2009 before we see full power on DT. I can only receive FOX20 here on early mornings or late nights when the weather propagation is just right...usually meaning cloud cover is reflecting signal or ice formations in the atmosphere allow signal reflections in my direction.

ABC32, although transmitting DT at a little higher power than FOX20 has not gone to full power either...not sure what their plans are.

I get very strong DT signals from NBC12, CBS8 and APT26. 29 and 45 also come in ok although I never watch those two DT stations.

Everybody seems to have problems getting some of the local HD channels. If I live 38 miles from the fox tower, can I pick this up with a winegard squareshooter, or do I need something bigger. I live in Prattville. Can't seem to get this ? answered
steve

Stoner51

Check www.antennaweb.org

Come to think about it, why don't you buy one from one of the local stores, try it out and if it doesn't work for you return it. That's more likely to be the only reliable way of finding out.

Everybody seems to have problems getting some of the local HD channels. If I live 38 miles from the fox tower, can I pick this up with a winegard squareshooter, or do I need something bigger. I live in Prattville. Can't seem to get this ? answered
steve

Steve, I get good signal strength (70% or above) on all digital stations with a channel master 4228 in my attic(no rotor) in Wewtumpka.

ABC seems to be at a stronger signal strength for me lately. It was 72% a month ago but now it's between 76 and 78. I'll check to see if my Fox is having problems. I was told by the engineer at Fox that they would be doing something to boost thier signal soon but I've seen no results.

WAKA was having a tough time this afternoon with the Auburn - Georgia game. It would flip from HD to SD.
Wasn't a problem on the CBS side just AKA.

The WAKA and WCOV tech guys need to go over to WNCF and see what they are doing right. WNCF is the only station consistently able to broadcast in HD and keep it on during the entire program. WAKA had numerous problems during yesterday's games and WCOV is out today.

I haven't watch WSFA lately, but based on their historical HD performance, they need to join the other two in the visit as well.

They do have problems with live sports. Dallas game started in HD but is now SD. Go figure. No problems with the race on WNCF which was the first local to do HD. Now halftime is HD.

Technically, they are "there"....however, you would probably have to be on their tower property to receive because they are running on their exciter only. They had major problems over a year ago and have never returned to original power. Not a real problem for the viewer, as CW offers no HD feed for markets above 100 in size (such as Montgomery).

Well, except for having to call them to get the center channel restored, and being off the air for over 2 weeks last spring, and never restoring their CW digital channel (which they own and operate) for over a year, and operating 32 at low power since sign on.....yeah, they do a pretty good job. OK...happy Monday to everyone. Just a practice rant. Look, sorry about the switching during the Auburn game, but we had
a small audio problem we were trying to chase down and it just happened to pop up then. We were mindful of the switching, and tried to keep it to the less compelling parts of the game. If you really do have issues with our DT, please call me anytime
334-271-8888 and we'll do our best to help.--Mark

Good to hear from ya Mark. :)

Next time don't hold back and tell us how you really feel. It's cheap entertainment for me. :D:D

Good to hear from ya Mark. :)
Next time don't hold back and tell us how you really feel. It's cheap entertainment for me. :D:D

NOOO! Don't encourage him! You don't wanna do that believe me! :D

Jtrippe thanks for the help. I purchased the 4228 from Electronic supply in Montgomery. I didn't measure the attic very well because I can't get it up there, but I get all the locals in HD. With WCOV being the lowest at 65 sitting in my living room. I will need to mount on the roof this weekend. I have a ?. I have a motorola amplifier that I bought to amplify my signal because Charter said it was low. When I put the amp on the signal pixelated with charter. OOps it was really their problem so they said on the phone after I bought the amp for $70. Will this amp do anything for the OTA signal or is it a waste of time. I hooked it up and I see some diff. but not much. My signal strenths are:
WAKA 74
WSFA 100
WCOV 65
WNCF 72
This is in my living room on the floor. Do I need more strentgh or is this sufficient? I asume that when I mount outside on the roof I will get a better number. I guess the ? is at what strength do I need a preamp.
Oh the guy at electronic supply was real nice and had the 4228 in stock for under $50. Its great when local is better than online.
thanks for all the help. I went with Dish and the 622 is great and now local HD.
Why does the WCOV guide not come up it just says digital service. That will suck when I get ready to record 24 it I have to manually enter it.
sorry so long
steve

You would only need the amp if you split the signal and went to multiple tuners.

Why does the WCOV guide not come up it just says digital service. That will suck when I get ready to record 24 it I have to manually enter it.


I believe I heard 24 was already canceled for this year?

My 20-1 guide data is fine on my 622.

Jtrippe thanks for the help. I purchased the 4228 from Electronic supply in Montgomery. I didn't measure the attic very well because I can't get it up there, but I get all the locals in HD. With WCOV being the lowest at 65 sitting in my living room. I will need to mount on the roof this weekend. I have a ?. I have a motorola amplifier that I bought to amplify my signal because Charter said it was low. When I put the amp on the signal pixelated with charter. OOps it was really their problem so they said on the phone after I bought the amp for $70. Will this amp do anything for the OTA signal or is it a waste of time. I hooked it up and I see some diff. but not much. My signal strenths are:
WAKA 74
WSFA 100
WCOV 65
WNCF 72
This is in my living room on the floor. Do I need more strentgh or is this sufficient? I asume that when I mount outside on the roof I will get a better number. I guess the ? is at what strength do I need a preamp.
Oh the guy at electronic supply was real nice and had the 4228 in stock for under $50. Its great when local is better than online.
thanks for all the help. I went with Dish and the 622 is great and now local HD.
Why does the WCOV guide not come up it just says digital service. That will suck when I get ready to record 24 it I have to manually enter it.
sorry so long
steve

Steve,

You should get much better reception when the 4228 is outside on the roof. You probably won't need a preamp. Here's what I get in Wetumpka with the 4228 in my attic.

WCOV-70%
WSFA-100%
WAKA-90%
WNCF-78%

I also got my 4228 at electronic supply co. I have a Dish Vip211 and subscribe to locals. I don't get guide data for WCOV either. I don't know what the deal is.

Stoner,

Do you need an extension ladder for the antenna installation?? I have one you can borrow.

I don't get WCOV Guide Data either. I've called and complained to Dish since 9-18 of this year and all I hear is that they've submitted it to engineering. On the DBSTalk forums, there is an OTA section for Dish that people have griped about the same issue in other parts of the country and it seemed it was for the most part a simple issue with the TSID being changed or the PSIP needed rebooting.

Scott Smith, I bet if you performed a switch test and forced it to re-download the complete guide, and rescanned your locals you'd loose WCOV's guide info as well.

It'd be interesting to find out if you were game, but I wouldn't if I had guide data.

Thanks for the help, I do have an extension ladder, but thanks for offering. I am currently having trouble with reception of waka and wcov. Those are the lowest signal strengths of the 4. I need to fine tune this for the AU vs UA game. So I have some time to tinker. The antenna will be about 15 -20 feet in the air on the roof, so I assume signal should be much stronger. Do the OTA channels cut out frequently when the weather changes?

Dish subscribers may want to try online programming of DVR 622 or 722 only
http://www.dishaccess.tv/vod/DVR_Timer.jsp

Yesterday I had to have knology come out and replace my HD DVR box as it would not record anything even though it was only at 34% capacity. It would schedule recordings but fail to record. Now I have missed a weeks worth of Smallville and Enterprise off of HDNet, as well as all the movies I told it to record. :(

Yesterday I had to have knology come out and replace my HD DVR box as it would not record anything even though it was only at 34% capacity. It would schedule recordings but fail to record. Now I have missed a weeks worth of Smallville and Enterprise off of HDNet, as well as all the movies I told it to record. :(

Mine would just give me a black screen if I paused or clicked on a recording.

A power cycle fixed mine.

. I don't get guide data for WCOV either.

Russ @ WAKA has confirmed that WCOV is indeed sending EPG data.
Which by the way, is a legal requirement of the FCC.

Mine would just give me a black screen if I paused or clicked on a recording.

A power cycle fixed mine.

Even after the tech came out there, he couldn't get it fixed. The box was a box that he had on the van that they took back from someone. Now we know why they had it taken back.

Installed antenna outside today. the readings I get are very similar to what I had before. About 2-5% higher on some. My question is this
WSFA 156
WCOV 156
WNCF 126
WAKA 224 Keeps cutting in and out with signal strength of 73.

The 3 top stations are relatively the same compass heading. WAKA is 60 deg. off the others with a signal strength of 74. would I benefit from a rotor? WCOV and WSFA are the same 156 deg. I guess it is safe to say that WCOV is probably where its going to be.
thanks for everybodies help
steve

Stoner,



Being 60 degrees off from the other stations, you're either going to have to get a rotor or go with a second antenna (which has it own installation issues).

I am leaning towards another ant. 4221 and a jointenna tuned to 55 to pick up WAKA. If I have something set to record will the rotor automatically adjust to the setting I need or do you have to do this manually? Extra antenna and jointenna would seem to me to be the better option.

I am leaning towards another ant. 4221 and a jointenna tuned to 55 to pick up WAKA.

Just an FYI.. Late next year, WAKA will be changing DTV channels from 55 to 42. And that will be a barrel on monkeys "fun" for us.

Just an FYI.. Late next year, WAKA will be changing DTV channels from 55 to 42. And that will be a barrel on monkeys "fun" for us.

CBS42 in Birmingham transmits analog TV on UHF channel 42. I was told they also had first dibs on using UHF42 for their digital signals in Feb. 2009.

Are you sure WAKA has FCC approval to use that frequency for their DTV?

Anyway, any change in channel assignments will only require a rescan on your TV or satellite receiver to acquire the new signal assignment(s). For those of you getting antennas for DTV keep in mind both UHF AND VHF frequencies will be used so don't get a "UHF only" antenna, and a rotor is a good idea as some stations may change transmitter locations by 2009.

Are you sure WAKA has FCC approval to use that frequency for their DTV?
.

Yes I think we know all about that..:)

I am leaning towards another ant. 4221 and a jointenna tuned to 55 to pick up WAKA. If I have something set to record will the rotor automatically adjust to the setting I need or do you have to do this manually? Extra antenna and jointenna would seem to me to be the better option.

I've not heard of a rotor system that automatically adjust direction according to the station a DVR is set to tune (although the idea would seem highly marketable). You'd have to have some way of the DVR sending out a signal as to which way to point. I haven't heard of any DVR capable of doing that.

Going duals is your better solution given you want to record.

As other's have posted, you may have to change the frequency of the jointenna for the one for WAKA later on.

By the way, you are using an amp on your current antenna, right?

Installed antenna outside today. the readings I get are very similar to what I had before. About 2-5% higher on some. My question is this
WSFA 156
WCOV 156
WNCF 126
WAKA 224 Keeps cutting in and out with signal strength of 73.

The 3 top stations are relatively the same compass heading. WAKA is 60 deg. off the others with a signal strength of 74. would I benefit from a rotor? WCOV and WSFA are the same 156 deg. I guess it is safe to say that WCOV is probably where its going to be.
thanks for everybodies help
steve

Steve,

You may want to try a Channel Master 7777 pre-amp first. I added this to my setup and, although it only gave me slightly better signal strenth, it holds the signal much better.

yes I knew I would have to get a jointenna for 42 in 2009. And no I am not using an amp. Would I benefit from one? I thought the signal strength was high enough. I thought the amp was for distributing to other tv's. Currently only have one tv on the antenna.

Looks like Charter has stepped up their HD package.
I couldn't believe my eyes.

yes I knew I would have to get a jointenna for 42 in 2009. And no I am not using an amp. Would I benefit from one? I thought the signal strength was high enough. I thought the amp was for distributing to other tv's. Currently only have one tv on the antenna.

I would give an amp a try before getting into trying to work with intergrating a second antenna. You are right, though. These amps are intended to restore a weakened signal from cabling and distribution.

Looks like Charter has stepped up their HD package.
I couldn't believe my eyes.


Oh yeah? What have they done? I got rid of them about 6 months ago due to their inability to come out for a service call. But, if their HD package is significantly better, then I may be willing to bring 'em back.

Oh yeah? What have they done? I got rid of them about 6 months ago due to their inability to come out for a service call. But, if their HD package is significantly better, then I may be willing to bring 'em back.


What are your alternatives?

What are your alternatives?

I live in an apartment complex with that only allows Charter. I face the north, so satellite is out of the question. My choices for HD are:

1. Charter
2. local HD channels via OTA.

The local channels come in great, when the switch is flipped or the locals aren't experiencing technical challenges. Charter failed to show for two service calls a few months ago, so I got rid of their digital services and rely on basic/expanded cable for everything and OTA for HD. But, if Charter has improved their HD services, then I will consider giving them another go.

Thanks!

They have a new box that seems a lot nicer. I didn't write down the model number though.

This is what I remember off the top of my head.

FOXHDSO
MTVHD
AETVHD
HSTRYHD
TMCHD
TNTHD
STARZHD
ESPNHD
ESPN2HD
HDT
UHD
SHOWHD
MAXHD
WNCFHD
WSFADT
WAKADT
WCOVDT

I just dumped Charter, For Dish. I am happy with their service and number of HD channels. Put up an OTA and get all the locals. The 622 is great. I am very happy with my setup. I unfourtunately need 2 antennas. I already have them mounted but not hooked up, I am waiting for a jointenna from warren electric. They only had 11 HD channels for a year, three weeks ago I called them and asked them their plans for HD and got a "eventually we plan to add a lot more" NO #$%^ everybody will in 2009. I had to call them frequently for pixelation issues on my HD. THe last time they came out they said it was my tv. Sony 55A3000 one week old. That was the straw. It was always something on my end. Their service may not be bad for everybody, but I seemed to have problems.
I am happy with Dish for the moment
steve

Of those channels listed 4 are movie tier HD

I've been trying to watch the local HD channels OTA for the better part of three years. They seem to do a great job during prime-time keeping the signal on and in HD. I have one question.

Why after three years have the stations not learned how to keep the HD signal on during sporting events?

btw - WCOV is out again.

I've been trying to watch the local HD channels OTA for the better part of three years. They seem to do a great job during prime-time keeping the signal on and in HD. I have one question.

Why after three years have the stations not learned how to keep the HD signal on during sporting events?

btw - WCOV is out again.
Yeah, the Kansas/Iowa State game went in and out constantly. Extremely irritating.

I just wanted to wish everyone HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!!!!

ARK @ LSU on WAKA-DT is not in HD. Someone needs to flip the switch.

Man, that was fast!

I was just about to write about that game, too. I hope someone was watching this forum.

I discovered on Thanksgiving that Charter has added two more HD channels...

The Weather Channel HD (765) and Golf Channel HD (766)

A nice treat for a weather geek like me. Not muh HD yet on TWC.... except for a few of their feature shows. I read somewhere that they are going all HD in Jan.

Props to Charter... who kind of went from worst to first as far as the variety of HD channels on cable in Montgomery.

Knology needs to step up now.

Charter still has no HDNET or HDMOV or do they?

ESPN did a pretty nice job with the Iron Bowl.

A few games back the announcers said that the refs use their instant replays to review plays. Since the refs now review every play (or at least they say they do) and we don't see instant replays of every play, do the refs have access to replays from other camera angles that we don't always see?

WCOV's HD is worthless on Sunday. Monday through Saturday it is good. Viewers must look elsewhere for HD viewing on Sunday. One would think they would put more effort into keeping that switch turned on during the Sunday NFL games, especially since they are watched by a large number of viewers.

One would think they would put more effort into keeping that switch turned on during the Sunday NFL games, especially since they are watched by a large number of viewers.

ABC, CBS, and NBC do NOT provide full-time HD feeds, so there has to be a "switch to flip" to enable the network HD, as the HD feed may not available for a given program.
Which is why it is understandable that WAKA and others miss or are late "flipping the flipping switch" at times.

That isn't the case with FOX, they ALWAYS provide an HD feed during network time. MOST master control switchers have a tally signal that can be tied to the FOX splicer to force it to the network HD thus removing any need to "flip the switch". We do it here, and **never** miss an HD feed unless there is an equipment issue.

Either Fox's tally signal operates abnormally on Sunday or, there is always an equipment issue on Sunday. As said, Monday through Saturday both the tally signal and the equipment seems to work okay...as far as I can tell.

Simple...the tech is off on Sundays. :)

Correct, no HDNET or HDMOV on Charter at this time.

It's Sunday so WCOV-HD messes up again. The Seahawks game started in HD but is now SD. It is sad that the stations in Montgomery do not have a clue.

Hey WCOV (FOX), your tally signal is not operational today! So much for "**never**" missing an HD feed.

Hey WCOV (FOX), your tally signal is not operational today! So much for "**never**" missing an HD feed.

Have you ever thought about calling WCOV and expressing your opinion to their management in a polite,respectable,adult manner? You'd probably get further with that than making snide comments here that they never see.
Of course, they may lurk here and choose not to participate based on what they see posted.;) Many TV stations choose not to participate in AVS overall for that very reason. :)

We choose to participate corporately because we value our viewers feedback.

I appreciate your advice. My analysis of it is this: If they are scared to reply to a freakin' message board (if they are lurking), then how will they react to a live telephone call?

Makes no sense.

WCOV: if you are lurking....FIX THE HD SIGNAL SO IT WORKS EVERY SUNDAY!

Sure it makes sense. Who wants to get involved in a pissing contest?

exactly...

I appreciate your advice. My analysis of it is this: If they are scared to reply to a freakin' message board (if they are lurking), then how will they react to a live telephone call?


I wouldn't say they're scared, most likey they don't lurk here any more the way Phil did before he unfortunately passed away. Many TV stations respond to some of the snide,rude,childish,unprofessional comments here by ignoring them.(Besides, We engineers get enough of that from the news department).

IMHO, if ANY business doesn't respond to a "reasonable and respectfull" caller in a polite professional manner, then they should not be patronized period.

Viewers should let stations know when there are problems. Each and everytime with a phone call and or email (Sorry Mark) (which If I'm correct, WAKA has posted their number here). Sometimes, we may not know there was or is a problem until we hear about it here. Sometimes there are legitimate reasons as to why the feed isn't HD. Sometimes the sole MCO is really busy with on-air problems.. or just not paying attention.

I agree it should be fixed. There could be any number of reasons why a station doesn't fix the problem, from network issues, lack of equipment or related issues, budgetary issues, or a lack of skill in how to do so. In any event, in about 14 months, HD will matter a lot more than it does now.

So call them and let them know.

A-MEN and What Jim says!!!!!!

Charter still has no HDNET or HDMOV or do they?

I can not go without those two channels. Enterprise and Smallville look amazing on HDNET and the movies look great!

So with that in mind, I have just moved to Prattville and I am getting a couple OTA HD Channels, but not as many as I was in Montgomery. I have Knology coming out this friday, but I was wondering how is Brighthouse's HD Channel selection?

New HD for Brighthouse 303 A&E HD 304 History HD

If they would only do some channels I actually watch.

New HD for Brighthouse 303 A&E HD 304 History HD

So what do they have in total?

I think I will enjoy several programs on both of these channels. I bet they go up on prices first of year saying because of the new HD lineup

I was just keeping everyone informed

On my latest bill from Bright House, there is a note saying that ESPN HD and ESPN 2 HD will join the standard/digital HD tier as on January 1st and no longer require purchase of the additional HD tier.

Unfortunately, Brighthouse doesn't offer any service in my area.

Unfortunately, Brighthouse doesn't offer any service in my area.

Bright House serves Elmore County (Wetumpka, Millbrook, Tallassee, etc.) and Maxwell AFB (Gunter, too).

Yeah, but not Prattville it seems. :(

On a side note, I am just off of Hwy 31 in Prattville about 2 miles north of Main Street. From there with just a set rabbit ears, I can pick up all of the CBS, NBC, and APT HD Channels just fine.

So far new hd channels on Brighthouse look like streched HD. Some shows on History interesting. No Dolby Digital 5.1 even on reruns of network shows. I want FOX!

On a side note, I am just off of Hwy 31 in Prattville about 2 miles north of Main Street. From there with just a set rabbit ears, I can pick up all of the CBS, NBC, and APT HD Channels just fine.

Scary.... I'm in Avalon behind the skating rink.

Although, I guess, not really scary.... this is a Montgomery area forum after all....

Scary.... I'm in Avalon behind the skating rink.

Although, I guess, not really scary.... this is a Montgomery area forum after all....

Dude, I just moved into a house in Avalon!

EDIT: Avalon forest that is. My Fiancee tells me that there is a street back there named Avalon. Is that a roller skating place or an ice skating place?

EDIT2: Nevermind, it says roller rink on it.

So far new hd channels on Brighthouse look like streched HD. Some shows on History interesting. No Dolby Digital 5.1 even on reruns of network shows. I want FOX!

Some shows are stretched. I wish they wouldn't do that. However, I saw an episode of CSI:Miami on A&E HD, and it was definitely HD.

Well, Knology finally came out this Friday and I have my HD DVR working again and no longer dependent on the rabbit ears. :cool:

Dude, I just moved into a house in Avalon!

EDIT: Avalon forest that is. My Fiancee tells me that there is a street back there named Avalon. Is that a roller skating place or an ice skating place?

EDIT2: Nevermind, it says roller rink on it.

I'm on Ridgewood.

Cool!

Didn't see anything listed so I thought I'd add the link for those of you Brighthouse customers in Elmore. I had been thinking really hard about switching to Dish Network or DirecTV but I'm glad for these additions since I bought a TivoHD when they came out.

http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/12/05/bright-house-networks-to-add-50-hd-channels-over-next-18-months/

coolearl,

Are you sure that applies to your market?

It refers to the central Florida division and using hybrid fiber-coaxial.

I went by Kmart tonight and they actually had HD DVDs and players! Their prices suck, but it was cool that they had them.

Nope, have no idea if it's in our market. It does seem that we are getting the channels that South Florida is getting about 3 months behind. I don't know if Brighthouse runs fiber to the box. I do know that they had to tear my yard up about 6 months ago to run new cable to the street cable distribution box. I hope it was fiber because I need more HD! :)

I hope it was fiber because I need more HD!

Trust me it wasn't!

Hi all,

I'm new to this section. I just got a new TV that has a HD tuner built in. I only have basic cable right now. So I plugged the cable into the TV and started the channel scan. I was suprised that the TV found 60+ digital channels, as I've never had these before. About 50 of them are music channels. I also picked up about 5 or 6 HD channels, which suprised me. I though I'd have to have an antenna to pick these channels up.

Is there a list of channel designations somewhere that I can reference for our area? I looked through about 20 pages of this thread and didn't find anything. I'm in Emerald Mountain (Wetumpka). The channels I picked up in HD are all in the 80+ range. Something like 83.1, 87.3, etc. I know I'm getting NBC, ABC, CBS, PBS, and some basketball TV station in HD. Unfortunately, my TV only has one coax input, so I doubt I'll be getting an antenna, unless there is some type of remote A/B switch I can buy. I bought the TV mostly for HD DVD/Blu Ray watching and video games, so the HD channels are a bonus. Eventually I'll get some type of HD service, probably from Brighthouse. Of course, I won't need an antenna then, since it'll all come over coax.

Thanks for any info.

PDCL,

Welcome to the area.

It doesn't sound like the channel numbers on the digital channels line up as you'd have to have a converter box for this. The analog channels should be o.k.


http://www.elmore.mybrighthouse.com/products_and_pricing/digital_cable/programming/channel_lineups_elmore.aspx

I'm trying to figure out how you're getting digital channels with only basic cable. By chance, do you have high speed internet?

Thanks for the welcome.

Maybe 'digital channels' isn't the correct term. My TV labeled them as digital channels when it found them, so that's what I called them. They all have a '.' in the number (83.1, etc). I have looked at Brighthouse's list before, but aren't those the channels that I would get with a STB? I don't have a STB. I do have high speed RoadRunner through Brighthouse. The signal coming into the TV for the HD stations shows either 1080i or 720p.

On a similar note, my grandmother recently got a new LCD flat panel TV (more for increased size than anything else, for aging eyes), and she is picking up many of the same channels (she's in Montgomery). Not sure which ones, but I know she's been listening to the music stations (113.1 - 113.50). I didn't mess with her TV to see what else she is getting. She does not have any internet service.

PDCL,

The channels actually sound about right. You are recieving the unencrypted qam channels which, in this area, is generally local HD, music, and your neighbor's video on demand in addition to the basic analog signals. What the tv calls digital and what the cable company calls digital are 2 different things.

There is no published list that I know of. If someone with the same cable service as you they may be able to give you the mappings. Otherwise, you just need to watch the channel and figure out what channel it is. May want to label it afterwards.

They are digital channels that are in the clear.

The whole cable spectrum is from 2 thru 119.

When you see channel 300 on your cable box that isn't the real channel number. It may be something like 89.1
They can get all the music channels in like 2 slots. 89.11, 89.15, 89.17, ect.

Unless someone already made notes you will just have to write down each one.

Edit:
I didn't see the reply above. We basically said the same thing. :)

When i was in Montgomery, I have since moved to Prattville, I had my HDTV hooked up to basic cable and I was able to pick up the same channels you were using the basic cable connection. Also, I was able to sporadically get HDNET Movies. Enjoy the free HDTV programming!

Anyone know where I can get my hands on a bulb for a Mitsubishi RPTV before the day after Christmas?

Man what horrible timing for a bulb to go out.

cohens is an authorized mitsubishi dealer. They may have one.

I'm hoping they are open today or tomorrow.

All these bowl games and no tv will kill me. :mad:

Cohens had one.
300 bucks later I'm watching TV again. :eek:

didn't think they were open today. Glad you were able to get back up and working again.

Cohens had one.
300 bucks later I'm watching TV again. :eek:

For next time Scott:

http://www.dlplampsource.com/e-store/prod_details.asp?pcid=0&cid=1016175235037&pid=152013819905

Thanks Bob,
I knew about the Lamp Source but couldn't wait for one. I went into Cohens armed with several web pages but it was a futal attempt.

Is FOX signal just weak? The strongest signal I can get is 69 or 70. I have a 4228 and a rotor. Yes I get reception issues at times. All other channels are fine. Lowest strentgth is WAKA at 86-89.

Thanks Bob,
I knew about the Lamp Source but couldn't wait for one. .

Any idea how many hours you had on that lamp? My Mits had 2448 hours last check in September, so I suspect I'm about due. Since I have the same set at work, I sorta have a temporary spare if needed..Plus my neighbor lost his Toshiba lamp last week..:eek:

Is FOX signal just weak? The strongest signal I can get is 69 or 70. I have a 4228 and a rotor. Yes I get reception issues at times. All other channels are fine. Lowest strentgth is WAKA at 86-89.

I only get about 69 or 70% also. It's been that way for months now. I think they're working on boosting the power though. I get much better signal on all the other stations.

Any idea how many hours you had on that lamp? My Mits had 2448 hours last check in September, so I suspect I'm about due. Since I have the same set at work, I sorta have a temporary spare if needed..Plus my neighbor lost his Toshiba lamp last week..:eek:


I never had looked at the hours but it was in there for 2 years. The set was manufactured in Oct 2005.

Hi,

I'm in Andalusia and on DISH Network. I was wondering if anyone here had experience with OTA reception in Andalusia or could tell me if it was worth even trying to put up an antenna or not. I'm interested in WSFA, WCOV, WNCF, and WAKA. I've checked antennaweb.org and the results were not very promising. I thought I'd ask though on the off chance that someone had some experience in the Andalusia area.

Thanks

Looks to me like you would have a better chance pointing south.

Hi,

I'm in Andalusia and on DISH Network. I was wondering if anyone here had experience with OTA reception in Andalusia or could tell me if it was worth even trying to put up an antenna or not. I'm interested in WSFA, WCOV, WNCF, and WAKA. I've checked antennaweb.org and the results were not very promising. I thought I'd ask though on the off chance that someone had some experience in the Andalusia area.

Thanks
Howdy jpdubose. I'm north of you in Luverne. I tried to start a thread for us "wilderness" viewers but a moderator of the HDTV reception forum bounced that message down to the Dothan(?) thread so I guess we'll just have to tag onto other areas.

Being as I'm about half-way between Montgomery and Andalusia I'll throw my 2-cents at ya.

First, here's my setup. Samsung HF260 STB (receiver), Channel Master 4228 antenna with a Channel Master 7777(?)mast top amplifier sitting at a whopping 18' high, approximately 100' RG6 coax, and lastly I sit on top of a 425' hill.

Second thing...I'm taking it that you do want to pick up the digital HD signals rather than the analog. Correct?

Ok, here goes...

WSFA and WAKA are possibilities for you (I receive both quiet well). Forget about WNCF and WCOV...it's not going to happen (I have yet to snag either a FOX or ABC station). Maybe when they go full power or mount their antennae higher than a 6' step-ladder you may have a chance.<sigh> If I recall correctly WCOV will have it's antenna (or already has it) on WSFA's tower up close to Ramer, but I think it's primary lobe will project towards the north/northwest rather than down our way.

In drawing a circle around Andalusia (from center of Andy), Pensacola is basically the same distance as Montgomery, Dothan is a tad closer to you than either of those, and Mobile if the furtherest away.

For NBC... WSFA's antenna is several miles south of Montgomery and will be the closest shot for you (Mobile being the other shot).

For CBS... I'm not sure of the location of WAKA's antenna but I believe it is just west of Montgomery...but it's putting out good power. But, WTVY (Channel 4 CBS) out of Dothan comes in very good for me...looking at the circle Dothan could possibly be your best shot for a CBS station.

For ABC... I would definitely turn to the south and try to get WEAR out of Pensacola. This is the only ABC affiliate that I believe you have a chance of getting.

FOX... A FOX station doesn't look too promising right now.

For PBS... WDIQ north of Dozier would be my pick for you. They have some really nice HD programming at times!

Things to consider are your local surroundings...

...lot's of buildings around you?
...in a bottom or on a hill?

Also, consider the fact that to the north are more hills while to the south the terrain tends to level out more.

I have, at times received Mobile, Pensacola, Destin, and Panama City stations, though these are rare for me and depend on atmospheric conditions. Though you are a considerable distance from the different antennas I believe with a good location/elevation and the right setup that you will be able to get several stations.

To me, OTA HD is the best quality of all HD that I've viewed. ...I sure will be glad when a FOX and ABC channel becomes available! I've got it figured where my contract with D*TV is fulfilled about the same time everything goes digital and (hopefully) all the stations go full power/height. :)

Best wishes,
Ed

Thanks for the quick replies guys. I kind of figured that I would have a better shot looking at Pensacola. I'm about 4 miles south of the center of town and sit on top of a decent hill.

That's the thing about Andalusia, we're in the dead center of nowhere. It's an hour and a half drive to either Montgomery, Dothan, or Pensacola.

The reason I was asking about Montgomery specifically and posted to the Montgomery thread is that Andalusia is in the Montgomery DMA, so that's the locals we get through DISH. I was hoping to be able to plug an antenna into the DISH receiver so that I would have guide data for the DVR. I may just have to do manual timers. It'll be a pain, but be worth it to have some prime-time HD.

Thanks again,

Do you get Montgomery Locals on Dish?

FYI it doesn't matter what DMA your in. You still get EPG data for any digital you can pull in.


If you'll notice in this picture that is Atlanta Locals with Montgomery digitals.

http://bumracing.com/albums/album01/DSCN4267.sized.jpg

jpdubose, this attachment is an image from http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.aspx showing the stations closest to you. I used an antenna height of 500' (antennaweb is conservative) and placed your reception location beside LBW since I didn't know your exact location.

As you can see, once you get past WAKA you begin to move into a definite fringe reception area. WTVY in Dothan is the most distant station that I receive with my CM4228 sitting at 18'...it's just under 70 miles from me and it's reception is consistent though I do have to use a rotor. Interesting note about my reception of WTVY is that my brick house sits between my antenna and WTVY's antenna.

Ed

edit: We must have been typing at the same time. Your location south of Andy doesn't drastically change things on antennaweb. I would go there and try to pinpoint your location as it takes in some topographical factors (such as your height), enter an antenna height of 400-500 feet (down at the bottom where it says "Options" and see what you get.

If you decide to put up a big reach out and touch someone antenna I have a Channel Master Rotor and control with Remote I would love to sell cheap!

It's practically new.

http://www.pctinternational.com/channelmaster/0612/images/products/antennas/rotator/9521_Antenna_Rotator.jpg

Anyone know of a local place that I can go test out Sub woofers beside Circuit City or Best Buy? I am thinking of trying to see if Rex is still open and still sells speakers.

Anyone know of a local place that I can go test out Sub woofers beside Circuit City or Best Buy? I am thinking of trying to see if Rex is still open and still sells speakers.

Cohens

cobolisdead,

That isn't the way to buy a subwoofer.

Visit the subwoofer subforum and find craigsub's rankings thread. You can get good information on how various subs compare and their cost.

Rex is closed

WSFA is not showing Football Night in America in HD...imagine that. Sub-standard service continues in Montgomery. When will local businesses step up to the plate and start providing top quality service all the time instead of half the time? This is the main reason why this city will never become a thriving modern city. (not the HD issue, but sub-standard service in general)

by the way - Kudos to WCOV and WAKA on today's football games. I didn't see one instance when the HD was down!

WSFA is ruining a perfect HD day! ha ha

If your talking about the Titans/Colts game I just flipped over (watching Alabama) and it was HD.

If your talking about the Titans/Colts game I just flipped over (watching Alabama) and it was HD.

Yeah, just a minute or two before halftime and after some snaps and pops and really nasty looking screen content WSFA's SD suddenly rolled over begrudgingly to HD.

Rex is closed

Ahh, well, that sucks.

Yeah, just a minute or two before halftime and after some snaps and pops and really nasty looking screen content WSFA's SD suddenly rolled over begrudgingly to HD.

I wish I had known. I could have flipped the channel and compared it to another market.

Just a heads up , But until Friday, MovieStop, which is GameStop's video store here in Prattville, is having a blowout sale with several HD DVDs marked 40% off. Their prices are already pretty good, usually $5 - $10 cheaper than Best Buy.

Some of the titles were:

Mission Impossible 1, 2, and the boxset
Failure to Launch
Sky Captain and the world of Tomorrow
We were soldiers
Aeon Flux
Freedom Writers
Payback
and a few others that I can't recall off the top of my head.

They also had some Blu-ray titles that were 40% off, but I didn't look to much into them since I don't have a player.

I want to wish everone Happy New Year!

We have a bureau in Andalusia. I think CBS and NBC from Montgomery, ABC from Pensacola and FOX from Mobile might be the best mix. CBS from Dothan should
come in too. Dothan's tower is in Bonifay (Florida). All the major Pensacola and Mobile towers are grouped within about 10 miles of each other just over the Florida/Alabama line (in Alabama) off I-10. And the Montgomery towers are south of MGM (southwest for WAKA and southeast for WSFA). There is an electronics store in Andalusia that I have visited (sorry...can't remember who or where except they have a big Zenith sign)
with an outside antenna and pretty much get what I have listed.

Dothan's tower is in Bonifay (Florida).


Actually, it isn't. It's listed as Bonifay, Florida because it's the closest town to it. It is actually near(like less than 1/2 a mile) my old High school, Bethlehem, which is a good 25 minute drive to Bonifay.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v136/Skywarp_TPK/cbs4Tower.jpg

Not trying to be a prick here or anything, just letting you know in case you didn't.

Actually, it isn't. It's listed as Bonifay, Florida because it's the closest town to it. It is actually near(like less than 1/2 a mile) my old High school, Bethlehem, which is a good 25 minute drive to Bonifay.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v136/Skywarp_TPK/cbs4Tower.jpg

Not trying to be a prick here or anything, just letting you know in case you didn't.

Got it. Give me the good old days when the tower and transmitter were in the same building as the station. Unless we were up north. Ice hurts the head.

yikes.

I've typically gotten good service with Knology. I'd called a couple of months ago to see if any there would be any new HD channels added, and was told, we'll make those announcements after the new year.

So, I call today, and proceed to get a lady who tells me "We get them as soon as the networks provide them".

say wha??

Don't you 'pick up' the channels like you do if you want to carry the NFL network, or the all oil wrestling channel?

"No, we get them when the company's provide them, and we don't know when that happens"

say wha???

What about Charter (who just added a few channels) or Dish?

"Dish is completely different, they are already all HD."

thank you for your time, have a nice day.

:rolleyes:

One more nail in the coffin for HD DVD owners. :)

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080105/ap_on_hi_te/dueling_dvd_formats

It figures. I've been HD-DVD. lol

All in all, I do think it's better for the industry and the consumer to only have one HD media format. Adoption should accelerate when the consumer doesn't face a choice of two formats and chooses neither.

I just wished it wasn't a Region locked Sony Format that was rejected by the DVD Forum.

Anyone still missing their guide data for their OTA WCOV with the DishNetwork Vip622 or 722 receiver?

Anyone still missing their guide data for their OTA WCOV with the DishNetwork Vip622 or 722 receiver?

Never have lost it.

What's your signal strength? Mine is 70%

I have never had the WCOV guide data. I still don't know how you are the only one on here getting it.
By the way I plan on making a trip to innerscapes on Mon. Are their prices fair or firm? Or can I work with them some?
steve

I can get 70 tops on WCOV.