Anyone have a currently list or link to the comcast QAM channel mapping? not sure if my terminology is correct, but the list showing that KOMO HD is 82-4, kong HD is 83-2(?), etc

Seems like things have moved alot lately, and the TV I'm about to get does not have a cable card slot...

Anyone have a currently list or link to the comcast QAM channel mapping?...

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11633296#post11633296

"With respect to Mr. Smith’s complaint that we moved the NFL network from a digital pkg. to a special sports tier at extra expense – yes, this summer we moved the NFL Network from Preferred Digital to a Sports & Entertainment Pkg. The reason we did this was quite simple – it’s niche programming and it’s relatively expensive, so why force everyone to pay for it when only a select few want to watch it. "

so does this mean we get a discount on our cable bill for this? Things that make you go hmmmmmm....

so does this mean we get a discount on our cable bill for this? Things that make you go hmmmmmm....

NFL-HD will be added Nov 1st, coincidentally, that's the same day our cable bill will increase 4.5%:rolleyes:

I am getting a new plasma hdtv delivered Wed...I have the 3412...Can someone tell me what is the best/newest stb to get ? Is the 64 series better than the 34? Should I get the 3416? The 3412 has an hdmi connector ...(I believe it is the 16.35 or .85 firmware...at work i can't remember) Is there a 2 way cable card? I really like having On demand Thanks for any help...

The last 2 digits reflect the size of the hard drive 12=120GB, 16=160GB. The first 2 digits reflect if it is digital or digital/analog. In this case 3416= Digital only tuner with a 160GB hard drive.
Try to get the new DCH-3416 (Digital Connected Home). More internal memory, newer electronics....

Ok good to know i will go to the office and see if I can get that...2nd part of my question, 2 way cable card, is it even available? Does it work well, or are there bugs? thanks for any help...if not possible then i will get the 3416..Thanks

No 2-way cable cards yet. Various companies are still fighting about which technology to use.

I am getting a new plasma hdtv delivered Wed...I have the 3412...Can someone tell me what is the best/newest stb to get ?

I believe you'll get whatever they give you. If you choose to swap out the 3412, you'll probably get a DCH3416, with whichever firmware Comcast has available. It will at least have one-third more disk space than the DCT3412.

Hey, I'm sure we were the first market to launch KONG HD. Beat that Portland. I just wish FIOS would step up its efforts in the area so those of us with tall tree issues would finally have some alternative to Comcast.

Amen. I was happy with DirecTV, but I moved to Bellevue where the trees prevent me from getting satellite. Now my choice is Comcast or nothing. The PQ is worse, and I get fewer HD channels. The only advantage with Comcast is that I can get a real TiVo. Would LOVE to get FIOS but I'm afraid I will be waiting a long time.

Hey, I'm sure we were the first market to launch KONG HD. Beat that Portland. I just wish FIOS would step up its efforts in the area so those of us with tall tree issues would finally have some alternative to Comcast.


Amen. I was happy with DirecTV, but I moved to Bellevue where the trees prevent me from getting satellite. Now my choice is Comcast or nothing. The PQ is worse, and I get fewer HD channels. The only advantage with Comcast is that I can get a real TiVo. Would LOVE to get FIOS but I'm afraid I will be waiting a long time.

Portland Comcast always seems to beat us when it comes to HD even though they are a smaller market, and also they are getting FiosTV at the end of this month. I recently switched over to Fios Internet and am waiting to find out about TV service. Unfortunately, when I heard Portand was getting FiosTV soon, I emailed a local Fios rep to find out if that would mean we would be getting it soon as well... his response was something like, yes indeed Portland will be getting FiosTV this fall, but he has no news on if and when Fios TV will get approval for the Washington market yet and will get back to me if he hears anything.

I had read rumors on some forum a long time ago that Portland would get FiosTV this fall and that Washington might get it next fall... we shall see. I'll bet by then Comcast will magically start adding HD galore here to be competitive with Verizon.

A side note. My cable and internet went out last night from Exactly midnight to exactly 6 AM this morning in South King County. This looks like a "scheduled" maintenance act that was not identified to their paid users. It might have involved an upgrade of some hardware. sam

My cable was fine, but my internet was down from roughly midnight to late the next afternoon/evening (not exactly sure what time it came back). I called, and they (Comcast) claimed that someone had run into a power pole, which subsequently snapped a fiber optic line that Comcast uses for internet service. Apparently, they had to wait for the power company to replace the pole before they could splice in a new line (I find this hard to believe...but...whatever).

Just FYI.

While watching Desperate Housewives on ABC-HD on my new 37" Toshiba, the audio seems slightly out of synch with the video. This problem does not appear on ABC SD. Is this likely an ABC problem, a Comcast problem, or a TV problem?

_http://www.zatznotfunny.com/2007-10/comcast-tivo-in-the-wild/

While watching Desperate Housewives on ABC-HD on my new 37" Toshiba, the audio seems slightly out of synch with the video. This problem does not appear on ABC SD. Is this likely an ABC problem, a Comcast problem, or a TV problem? Could any one of them, what type of connection do you have for HD.....HDMI?

If you have another TV hooked up in your home you could try that one and see if it is out of sync as well, doesnt have to be an HDTV.

Could any one of them, what type of connection do you have for HD.....HDMI?

If you have another TV hooked up in your home you could try that one and see if it is out of sync as well, doesnt have to be an HDTV.

It is basic comcast - cable goes from wall directly to TV. As stated, the ABC SD feed on the same TV appeared in sync, and other HD channels also appeared in sync. We do have another HD TV which I checked, but to be honest, did not watch it long enough to tell if there was a problem. It was really only noticable during the close-up face shots

It is basic comcast - cable goes from wall directly to TV. As stated, the ABC SD feed on the same TV appeared in sync, and other HD channels also appeared in sync. We do have another HD TV which I checked, but to be honest, did not watch it long enough to tell if there was a problem. It was really only noticable during the close-up face shots

I've had this problem before with HD Desperate housewives. It can be anything from the broadcast signal, to your receiver (if you are using one), or a slight delay in processing time for the video and audio. HDTV Video processing causes a slight delay, and audio needs to follow the same delay. Most devices automatically do this, but the more devices involved, the higher chance of a sync problem, and some devices do better jobs than others. Do you use a receiver for audio or TV speakers? What brand of TV?

Luckily for me, I can sync the audio with Mythtv whenever it is out of wack.

I've had this problem before with HD Desperate housewives. It can be anything from the broadcast signal, to your receiver (if you are using one), or a slight delay in processing time for the video and audio. HDTV Video processing causes a slight delay, and audio needs to follow the same delay. Most devices automatically do this, but the more devices involved, the higher chance of a sync problem, and some devices do better jobs than others. Do you use a receiver for audio or TV speakers? What brand of TV?

Luckily for me, I can sync the audio with Mythtv whenever it is out of wack.

It is a brand new Toshiba Regza 37" LCD. I am not using any type of receiver or audio system, just TV speakers. I am trying to determine if it is the TV, which can still be returned or exchanged as necessary (one of the main reasons I bought at Costco was the 90 return rather than typical 30).

You state you can sync it when it is out of wack...How? And if it is occasionally necessary, seems like HDTV is still in "beta" ...

i had a 32in regza in our bedroom at our old house using QAM only and i had intermintent HD audio sync problems. try changing the channel up or down and then back and see if that fixes it.

i had a 32in regza in our bedroom at our old house using QAM only and i had intermintent HD audio sync problems. try changing the channel up or down and then back and see if that fixes it.

"intermittent" - only certain channels? some of what I have googled claims the problem is worse on 1080i (ABC?) sources. Is it worth exchanging my TV? I thought HDTV was past the "beta" stage by now...

Broadcast sources do still have technical problems from time to time. Fixed HD sources such as BLU-RAY and HD-DVD are more consistent and of a higher Quality. For example, a football game on Fox-HD looks SD to me when compared to a higher quality source such as MHD or even ESPN-HD. HD is all over the map when it comes to over-the-air programming.

_http://www.zatznotfunny.com/2007-10/comcast-tivo-in-the-wild/

This can't come fast enough. It will either be a great day in my life, or a realization that I need an actual TIVO.

As of today, Directv has over 50 HD channels, Dish Network has over 45 channels for Seattle area.

Comcast has 20.

Maybe it's time to try the satellites. I heard their DVRs are way better too.

As of today, Directv has over 50 HD channels, Dish Network has over 45 channels for Seattle area.

Comcast has 20.

Maybe it's time to try the satellites. I heard their DVRs are way better too.

I wish I can get directv or Dish but can't as I live in a condo with whole bunch of trees in the back. I recently got the international dish for Directv which works fine but the HD dish didn't work due to trees.

As of today, Directv has over 50 HD channels, Dish Network has over 45 channels for Seattle area.

Comcast has 20.

Maybe it's time to try the satellites. I heard their DVRs are way better too.

Yes, but you have to pay up front for the DVR's. I'd switch in a minute if it weren't for the $600+ startup cost to populate my house at a minimal level. And what would I do with the 3 Tivos we have?

Yes, but you have to pay up front for the DVR's. I'd switch in a minute if it weren't for the $600+ startup cost to populate my house at a minimal level. And what would I do with the 3 Tivos we have?

That's my delimma as well... Plus last time I had direcTV it didn't play nice with my vonage phone line...

Yes, but you have to pay up front for the DVR's. I'd switch in a minute if it weren't for the $600+ startup cost to populate my house at a minimal level. And what would I do with the 3 Tivos we have?

Just an FYI, at least with Dish Network, the net cost of an HD DVR is $0 after credits and rebates for new customers. Granted I doubt you could get 3 of them for free, but I know you could get one and potentially some other receivers for free. I have 2 of Dish Network's ViP722's and they are great. Plus having over 55 hours of HD recording space internally and USB hard drive support recording space is unlimited. Besides adding HD channels at a much faster rate than Comcast they are also beginning to launch their DishONLINE IPTV application in some areas (currently Denver and Atlanta) and supposedly this will also include HD content in the future.

That's my delimma as well... Plus last time I had direcTV it didn't play nice with my vonage phone line...

I know this is going to sound like an ad for Dish Network, but I just noticed this post and wanted to add that on the ViP622 and ViP722 HD DVRs they support 'dial out' via ethernet now so you can get away without a phone line on these receivers. They also support an application called DishCOMM which uses HomePlug technology to communicate between multiple Dish receivers in case you have a phone line near one receiver but not another.

Basically things have changed a lot over the last couple of years in technology and upfront costs.

The thing that keeps me from switching is the possibly worse PQ and being locked into a contract for 18 months. Also, when checking Dish locals, it say's that there is no FOXHD in this area. Is that true? They list ABCHD, NBCHD and CBSHD, but only the SD version of Fox.

The thing that keeps me from switching is the possibly worse PQ and being locked into a contract for 18 months. Also, when checking Dish locals, it say's that there is no FOXHD in this area. Is that true? They list ABCHD, NBCHD and CBSHD, but only the SD version of Fox.
That is true. Dish has no local FOX, CW, or PBS stations in HD.

The thing that keeps me from switching is the possibly worse PQ and being locked into a contract for 18 months. Also, when checking Dish locals, it say's that there is no FOXHD in this area. Is that true? They list ABCHD, NBCHD and CBSHD, but only the SD version of Fox.

Correct. However if you can get the locals via an antenna they can be integrated into Dish or DirecTV receivers. Including guide data and the ability to record them. In fact in the case of the Dish receivers the OTA tuner is completely separated from the sat tuners so you can record 3 shows at the same time, 2 sat channels + an OTA channel. But, if you can't get OTA reception where your at it's a moot point.

Saw this on another thread for those who care:
http://www.news.com/8301-10784_3-9802326-7.html?part=rss&subj=news&tag=2547-1_3-0-20
Tivo2go, MRV -- about time. It's too late for me as I am settled with my cable dvr solution (mythtv) but others might be interested...

FWIW, here's the latest update to the QAM list:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10921115#post10921115

It lists all of the above, including both transport and PSIP channels, so it might help in the troubleshooting.

It looks to me as if ppshooky might have a signal strength problem at high frequencies:

KIRO, KONG, KSTW, and KCPQ are transported at much higher frequency (channels 110 and 111) than the ones that he is receiving KOMO, KING, KCTS, and KMYQ (channels 82, 85, 96).

I have a new TV that appears to support PSIP. My comcast cable goes from wall directly to TV. I can get KOMO -HD on 4-1, KIRO-HD on 7-1, and several others are similar. Howver Fox, which I have read should get re-mapped to 13-1 does not appear there. I can only get it at 11X-X, or something similar up high...Any thoughts?

I have a new TV that appears to support PSIP. My comcast cable goes from wall directly to TV. I can get KOMO -HD on 4-1, KIRO-HD on 7-1, and several others are similar. Howver Fox, which I have read should get re-mapped to 13-1 does not appear there. I can only get it at 11X-X, or something similar up high...Any thoughts?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=11633296&postcount=10157

Fox and CW PSIP is broken right now... Does your TV set allow you to map channels manually?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=11633296&postcount=10157

Fox and CW PSIP is broken right now... Does your TV set allow you to map channels manually?

TV is 48 hours old, so don't know if I can remap...

"broken"- so it's not my TV...who does the PSIP remap- Comcast or the station, how long has it been broken, and is someone trying to fix it?

My original plan was use the TV to block the SD channels - ie why watch 4 when 4-1 is HD? However watching Desperate Housewives Sunday night the audio was out of synch on 4-1, but not 4! Ugh...we're 5 years in HDTV, and I thought the problems would be fixed by now!

TV is 48 hours old, so don't know if I can remap...

"broken"- so it's not my TV...who does the PSIP remap- Comcast or the station, how long has it been broken, and is someone trying to fix it?

My original plan was use the TV to block the SD channels - ie why watch 4 when 4-1 is HD? However watching Desperate Housewives Sunday night the audio was out of synch on 4-1, but not 4! Ugh...we're 5 years in HDTV, and I thought the problems would be fixed by now!

I believe for QAM comcast is responsible, but I'm not sure. When I scanned OTA stations they mapped properly for me. Who knows if anyone is working on it at comcast. I'd be happy if they focused their efforts on catching up with direcTV HD offerings :).

I believe for QAM comcast is responsible, but I'm not sure. When I scanned OTA stations they mapped properly for me. Who knows if anyone is working on it at comcast. I'd be happy if they focused their efforts on catching up with direcTV HD offerings :).

I called Comcast several months ago to ask about QAM channels and I got a blanket statement "We do not support QAM." No matter what question I asked that is all they would say. This was after a big channel move and I wanted them to give me a list of all the unencrypted QAM channels and their new frequencies. I highly doubt they will fix any PSIP issues at their customer request.

How much longer can Comcast turn their backs to QAM customers?

A bit of further research shows that I think the PSIP is supposed to work with OTA also, not just cable. The PSIP info is imbedded in the signal. So, it may be KCPQ's problem, not Comcast's. However, that info is based on a quick "google", and should not be considered 100% factual...

A bit of further research shows that I think the PSIP is supposed to work with OTA also, not just cable. The PSIP info is imbedded in the signal. So, it may be KCPQ's problem, not Comcast's. However, that info is based on a quick "google", and should not be considered 100% factual...

Yes, but comcast has to still pass the correct info. As I stated earlier, My last OTA scan worked fine for KCPQ and KSTW. About a year ago comcast didn't pass any PSIP info, but my OTA scans read the PSIP info fine. A few months ago comcast's PSIP info was good for KCPQ and KSTW. So who knows what happened.

. ...A few months ago comcast's PSIP info was good for KCPQ and KSTW. So who knows what happened.


Have you tried sending an email asking the question to those 2 networks to see if they had anything to add?

Have you tried sending an email asking the question to those 2 networks to see if they had anything to add?

No... I can map the stations on my own so it hasn't been a priority for me. For me the more annoying part is when comcast changes the mappings. But a rescan and remap fixes that... But since I record off of QAM if I don't find out early enough I might miss a recording. Almost enough to make me put an antenna on my house :) I can get stations via an indoor antenna, but I have to move the antenna a bit for different stations, so that doesn't work out so well either for recording. Good backup for when cable is out though.

I am just checking in to see if the Husky game was on FSN HD on Channel 664 last weekend.

I checked the channel guide and it didn't show the game, but they also didn't show the MLB playoffs on Fox on Sunday, so I don't know how up to date they are.

I'm a Coug, and the Cougs are on FSN this Saturday at 3:30pm and I'm hoping to be able to watch them in HD,
but so far, they are not on the channel guide for 664.

Anybody know for sure if that game will be in HD? Was the Husky game in HD last week?

As far as I know, all Husky home games are SD because they simply don't have HD cameras at their stadium.

As far as I know, all Husky home games are SD because they simply don't have HD cameras at their stadium.

Reference: Having cameras at the stadium has nothing to do with whether a game is in HD or not. The cameras are provided by the production truck, which is rented by the day from a third-party company, and is different for almost every game based on the specs of the company producing the game, be it FSN, ESPN, or ABC.

For FSN, there are a lot of issues in producing a game in HD. Any college game which is produced by the local office (FSN Northwest) will likely not be in HD because of many reasons, not the least of which being that there is only one truck currently that is permanantly assigned to the Northwest that can do HD, which is the truck they use to produce Sonics and Mariners games in HD. That truck is typically assigned to a higher profile national broadcast on College Football saturdays.

This week's WSU game is being produced by the national office of FSN (FSN Network), however it will not be produced in HD. They have attempted to produce as many games as possible in HD this year, but for some reason have chosen not to pick the Pullman game this week for HD. It is likely due to the fact that the other two games on FSN this weekend WILL be in HD.

More HD trucks are being put on the road every year, but they are extremely expensive to build and maintain. For a few more years, we'll have to suffer through SD regional broadcasts while the nation broadcasts will grow in HD. Eventually, the viewers will demand 100% HD and SD trucks will either be converted to HD or discarded.

Decided to take the plunge and leave comcast for Direct TV.... just an FYI in case no one new Direct TV now has SPEED Channel HD along with Spike TV HD.... along with many others. Tired of Comcast and there lack of getting up to date with HD. When I called Direct TV and told them I wanted to leave Comcast she said what is the deal? For the past week I have been setting up around 30-40 new accounts a day from people wanting to leave comcast. Kind of funny!

brownnet,

Thanks for the info. Do you work for Fox?

Decided to take the plunge and leave comcast for Direct TV.... just an FYI in case no one new Direct TV now has SPEED Channel HD along with Spike TV HD.... along with many others. Tired of Comcast and there lack of getting up to date with HD. When I called Direct TV and told them I wanted to leave Comcast she said what is the deal? For the past week I have been setting up around 30-40 new accounts a day from people wanting to leave comcast. Kind of funny!

I almost made the switch myself because I THOUGHT that DirecTV had more FSN games in HD. But it turns out that they don't, so I'm sticking with Comcast for now because my wife likes the On Demand service.

The only HD channels I watch are sports and Discovery Channel, and Comcast already has those.

But if you are into HD, DirecTV is kicking Comcast's butt right now!

Problem with Comcast is things will only get worse. As more and more channels going HD, the gap will grow bigger and bigger.


Decided to take the plunge and leave comcast for Direct TV.... just an FYI in case no one new Direct TV now has SPEED Channel HD along with Spike TV HD.... along with many others. Tired of Comcast and there lack of getting up to date with HD. When I called Direct TV and told them I wanted to leave Comcast she said what is the deal? For the past week I have been setting up around 30-40 new accounts a day from people wanting to leave comcast. Kind of funny!

So what's the current story on local channels in HD with DirectTV? Do they carry them on the satellite or do you have to tune locals OTA? I've considered going DirectTV a few times but am very geographically challenged when it comes to OTA reception of HD. I had an antenna on the roof with a powered rotor so I could fine tune on a channel by channel basis, and frankly it didn't work that well for me.

If DirectTV has locals on the birds (for seattle), I may just have to check it out.

If DirectTV has locals on the birds (for seattle), I may just have to check it out.

At most right now the satellites are only carry the big 4 networks, ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX for local markets.

I know for a while that in Seattle DirecTV didn't have KOMO/ABC, but that may have changed. In the case of Dish Network they don't carry KCPQ/FOX due to the fact that Tribune wants them to carry MYQ or whatever it's called now in HD as well or they can't carry KCPQ in HD. Since that is not Dish Network's policy they can't get the rights to KCPQ-HD.

If any of the other local channels that broadcast in HD are important to you, i.e. KSTW, KONG, KCTS etc .... then cable or OTA are your only options. Same goes for any sub channel, i.e. Weather+ or in the case of KIRO the very compelling 24 hour SeaTac web cam (what a waste of bandwidth).

I may have to actually, god forbid, call them and find out. The info on their website isn't all that concrete. I put in my zip and it shows HD locals for my zip, but then in the packages for locals it says it may be KNBC/KABC etc for "locals".

I'm mostly concerned about the big 4; I honestly can't remember the last time I watched anything on KONG, or KSTW in HD, but I would miss KCTS.

Well, tons to read about and see...I guess there's probably a DirectTV HD thread around here somewhere.....

Thanks rob!

Well, tons to read about and see...I guess there's probably a DirectTV HD thread around here somewhere.....

Thanks rob!

Check out www.dbstalk.com, great site and part of the AVS family. They have a DirecTV section and a Dish Network section. I'm kind of bias since I'm a moderator for the Dish Network side. The guys running the DirecTV side of the side are very knowledgeable as well.

I may have to actually, god forbid, call them and find out. The info on their website isn't all that concrete. I put in my zip and it shows HD locals for my zip, but then in the packages for locals it says it may be KNBC/KABC etc for "locals".

I'm mostly concerned about the big 4; I honestly can't remember the last time I watched anything on KONG, or KSTW in HD, but I would miss KCTS.

Well, tons to read about and see...I guess there's probably a DirectTV HD thread around here somewhere.....

Thanks rob!

At this time, the only local HDTV channels DirecTV is carrying include KOMO-DT (ABC), KING-DT (NBC), KIRO-DT (CBS) and KCPQ-DT (Fox). These are MPEG-4 and require the newest HR20 or HR21 DirecTV HD DVR receivers or comparable non-DVR units.

Those same receivers can tune in any digital OTA channels and have guide data support for those local digital OTA channels.

Personally. I still have older DirecTV equipment (MPEG-2 only, combined with OTA) so I do not receive those satellite-fed MPEG-4 local HD channels.

Today's Seattle-PI on Page A8 has a Comcast ad that says "...plus more HD channels coming soon". It has the logos of History Channel HD, Nat Geo HD, USA HD, and A&E HD at the bottom of the ad.

This looks like an official announcement to me that it's a done deal.

Today's Seattle-PI on Page A8 has a Comcast ad that says "...plus more HD channels coming soon". It has the logos of History Channel HD, Nat Geo HD, USA HD, and A&E HD at the bottom of the ad.

This looks like an official announcement to me that it's a done deal.

Cool, any date on when? Is Dec 6th the official date?

Is Dec 6th the official date?

Ha ha, good one. Wait, you were making a joke, right?

Atleast Comcast is adding channels somewhere..7 new channels would be nice...

http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/10/25/comcast-adds-seven-hd-channels-to-houston-market/

I was just going to post that link. I wonder if Comcast is also raising rates there too...

Seems like Comcast is only pushed to add new HD when direct competition forces their hand. In Philadelphia, Comcast added TBS-HD in time for the playoffs because the Phillies were in it and DirecTV had it in time.

In Houston it appears Time Warner's changes got Comcast to make a competitive move.

I'm glad they will finally add more HD channels soon, since it's been a year since they've added one. But I wish they would add FX HD, that's the one I've waiting for the longest, and I think DirectTV has it now.

I'm glad they will finally add more HD channels soon, since it's been a year since they've added one. But I wish they would add FX HD, that's the one I've waiting for the longest, and I think DirectTV has it now.


http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/10/15/another-week-another-10-new-hd-channels-for-directv/

According to this link, DirectTV got FXHD in the last couple of months. I agree that it would be nice to get FXHD.

a couple of weeks ago my qam channels started disappearing on the basic cable. I used to get all the locals with my eye-tv (mac) qam tuner but now neither the eye-tv tuner nor my visio can find the qam stuff, although the vizio can still get 4-1, etc for the local channels. I have no idea where this info has suddenly gone!

Thanks for any information!

Chuck

We just received commercials from Comcast at our station that talk about adding new HD channels in December. Pretty lame they are adding a handful, while Directv gets dozens.

I noticed a new mail on the non-DVR box that says three HD "movie poster" channels are going away at the end of November, so I guess they're going to be carrying at least three of the new channels...

We just received commercials from Comcast at our station that talk about adding new HD channels in December. Pretty lame they are adding a handful, while Directv gets dozens.

Which hd channels if you can share?

We just received commercials from Comcast at our station that talk about adding new HD channels in December. Pretty lame they are adding a handful, while Directv gets dozens.

Hopefully FoodNetwork HD is one of the new channels.

Also, how many of you would leave Comcast if Verizon's FiOS TV became available?

Which hd channels if you can share?

Someone just posted on the last page that the they saw an ad in the Seattle PI announcing these channels coming next. History Channel HD, Nat Geo HD, USA HD, and A&E HD

I don't know why they are skipping over Food and HGTV for now, those channels were added months ago in other markets. Hopefully they will catch us up soon, but I'm not counting on it.

Hopefully FoodNetwork HD is one of the new channels.

Also, how many of you would leave Comcast if Verizon's FiOS TV became available?

I already have Fios internet and would most likely switch since Comcast has been so sluggish about adding HD in our market. Comcast is catching up with FiosTV in other markets but I'm sure Verizon has the ability to stay competitive. One thing I've read also about FiosTV is that PQ is among the best, and while you might not see a big difference in PQ on the HD channels, you see a huge difference on there SD channels.

Funny thing is, Comcast is now claiming to be the leader in HD. There is an article on tvpredictions.com with Comcast's Steve Burke claming this. D* is adding 70 HD channels, but Comcast claims they have more HD due to VOD. If you remember, Steve Burke also said Comcast would carry 32-35 HD channels by the end of the third quarter this year.

One more thing... on my way to work this morning I saw a truck driving down the freeway. It had a ladder and a bunch of boxes with HD satellite dishs stacked in the back. As I drove past, I saw the logo DirectTV on the side. I thought to myself... Ah, looks like a few people are getting fed up and having D* installed today.:)

I'm probably can't get D* myself due to all the trees to the south of me, but I'm getting tempted to have my place tested.

I wish I could get DirecTV at my apartment, but landlord says we can't.

But yeah, Comcast's "claims" on being the leader in HD is hilarious and I knew they would count the VOD into the mix as calling it a channel.

Have you noticed that Comcast stopped running those TV spots where their employees are saying, "Someday, they say they will have over 100 channels in HD. Someday."

Well Comcast, someday came and you're getting your ass handed to you.

As for Burke's claims of Comcast having 32 to 35 HD channels by the third quarter...he must've been talking about his house.

I wish I could get DirecTV at my apartment, but landlord says we can't.

I thought federal law prevents landlords from dissallowing satelite. I would research this if I were you.

I do want NGC HD, but my second choice would be Science Channel HD, especially with that new Mars program coming up at the end of the month. They have been advertising it on HD Theatre and it looks great in HD.

I thought federal law prevents landlords from dissallowing satelite. I would research this if I were you.

I looked around and came across the Satellite Home Viewers Improvement Act of 1999 (SHIVA), but I don't have time to read a 214 page document.

Does anyone know what the jist of the act means?

I think the landlord has to let you pick which service you want. The landlord probably has a rule though against attaching a satellite to the building or roof. One way around that is if you had a southern facing porch or balcony you could get a tripod and put the satellite on it, then run a cable into your place. If enough tenants complained, maybe the landlord could put some dishes on the roof. It's worth looking into.

I took a look at the commercial Comcast sent us. It's a 1:00 spot and mentions "...coming in December more HD programming, including A&E HD, History HD, USA HD and National Geographic HD." So maybe we might get more since they said including and didn't spend a whole lot of time on the subject. I checked the 30 second spot and it makes no mention of any new HD channels.

I got a mailer today that says "Coming in December: HistoryHD, USAHD, A&EHD, and National Geographic Channel HD" There is no exact date, but it does sound like its official. The mailer does not say that there are any more channels to come. If there was even a chance, I bet they would hint at it in this mailer.

I think we should all invest in some hard liquor for December 6 since that's the rumored date when the new channels are on.

If the 6th comes and there are new channels, then the liquor will be for celebration.

If the 6th comes and all we get is KONGHD PART 2 then clearly the liquor will be for, "I can't believe they hosed us again."

If it's the latter, then I say the next course of action is to smash up their offices with a hammer like that one lady did.

Just a suggestion. :)

I took a look at the commercial Comcast sent us. It's a 1:00 spot and mentions "...coming in December more HD programming, including A&E HD, History HD, USA HD and National Geographic HD." So maybe we might get more since they said including and didn't spend a whole lot of time on the subject. I checked the 30 second spot and it makes no mention of any new HD channels.

Is this for tv or radio? If so, which tv or radio station?

Hopefully FoodNetwork HD is one of the new channels.

Also, how many of you would leave Comcast if Verizon's FiOS TV became available?

As much as I dislike Verizon, if FIOS internet and TV became available at my house, i'd switch in a heartbeat.

Is this for tv or radio? If so, which tv or radio station?

KCPQ-TV & KMYQ-TV

I think we should all invest in some hard liquor for December 6 since that's the rumored date when the new channels are on.

If the 6th comes and there are new channels, then the liquor will be for celebration.

If the 6th comes and all we get is KONGHD PART 2 then clearly the liquor will be for, "I can't believe they hosed us again."
...


HOSED?!?!?! COUNT ME IN!!! (Steve Martin, SNL, circa 1977)

I think we will be hosed even IF we get some HD on 12/6. Whatever happened to "you get what you pay for"? I pay a lot and get squat. D* folks pay less and get more - now 70 HD channels. I'm seriously looking at cutting some of my neighbor's tree limbs off in the middle of the night and putting up a dish.

x43x - Moshington? LOL.

When my son was in about first grade the teacher asked if anyone knew why our state was called Washington. She called on the first hand that shot up. "Well it rains a lot here and that washes everything a ton, so, Washing Ton." The laughter was merciless. He was obviously a recent transplant from California. My son was still laughing when he got home to tell the story.

Anybody using the new Tivo HD unit and cable cards with Comcast here? With the cable cards, do all the channels map correctly and does the guide work. I'm thinking of upgrading to the new TivoHD, so please pass on any tips.

Anybody using the new Tivo HD unit and cable cards with Comcast here? With the cable cards, do all the channels map correctly and does the guide work. I'm thinking of upgrading to the new TivoHD, so please pass on any tips.

Yes, everything maps correctly. The guide works extremely well. I have never had a problem.

when did the new TivoHD DVR come out?

My comcast rep said it would be coming out "in a few months" when I signed up 3 months ago.

What are the advantages of that DVR over the HD DVR I have now?

Anybody using the new Tivo HD unit and cable cards with Comcast here?

I am and it works great.

when did the new TivoHD DVR come out?

My comcast rep said it would be coming out "in a few months" when I signed up 3 months ago.

What are the advantages of that DVR over the HD DVR I have now?

Well there is the TivoHD DVR, which is separate from Comcast.

Then there is the Comcast-Tivo DVR, which is your current Comcast Motorola DVR, but running a version of the Tivo software instead of the current iGude/SARA software.

The Comcast-Tivo DVR has been in development for years. It just launched in a few select New England communities to Comcast employees only. It is expected to be available to the general public in those communities within a few weeks. It will then be rolled out across the nation, but it could be many months before we get it here in Seattle.

The advantages to both the TivoHD and the Comcast-Tivo DVR is the Tivo interface is orders of magnitude superior to the iGuide/SARA interface.

The advantage of the Comcast-Tivo DVR is that it can use PPV and OnDemand, which the TivoHD DVR currently cannot. There are rumored enhancements coming that would allow it, but we may never see them.

The advantage of the TivoDVR is that it can do "Tivo to Go" and multi-room viewing, which the Comcast-Tivo DVR will not. You can also use Amazon's "Unbox" OnDemand rental service which you cannot do with the Comcast-Tivo DVR.

The advantage of the Comcast-Tivo DVR is that it can use PPV a. . . which the TivoHD DVR currently cannot. There are rumored enhancements coming that would allow it, but we may never see them.


Your comments on TivoHD and PPV are incorrect. PPV is available for TiVoHD, but you would have to order by phone to get PPV for the TiVoHD. Comcast supports this ability for all cablecard devices.

Your statement is a common misperception, and Cnet.com even had to change it's review of the TiVoHD to reflect that PPV is available. I have ordered PPV a handful of times for my TiVo from Seattle Comcast. The selection is pretty thin, unless you watch MMA or "Girls Gone Wild." I prefer the latter.:D

Your comments on TivoHD and PPV are incorrect. PPV is available for TiVoHD, but you would have to order by phone to get PPV for the TiVoHD. Comcast supports this ability for all cablecard devices.

Fair enough. Now that I think about it, I do recall some folks (might have been you) saying they can get PPV via the phone.

Did you have any trouble getting the cable cards for the TIVO and is there a rental fee for them? I just got an HDTV and want to upgrade my service from basic cable so that I can get the all the HD channels. The customer service rep told me that I should use their DVR so that I can also get all the On demand stuff. She said that there is quite a bit of free HD on demand movies/shows. I thought I would try it for awhile and then if I don't use the on demand, get the TIVOHD. I asked her about the Comcast TIVO service and she said it would be a long time before we see it here... atleast a year. Do you guys miss the On Demand media?

I called Comcast to question their HD contect vs DirecTV. The rep listed the four HD stations and confirmed the Dec 6th date. She also stated there would be a few more in early 2008, but didn't have any info on what they were. I gave her a list of stations I would like to see and she said she would forward the list to someone that could use it.

Did you have any trouble getting the cable cards for the TIVO and is there a rental fee for them?

No problems with the cards. Just picked them up at the local Comcast office in Redmond. There is a $1.79 a month fee for the card. You only need one card as long as it is an "M-Card" [Multistream Card]. An "M-Card" will allow you to tune/record two channels at once on your TivoHD.


Do you guys miss the On Demand media?

I never use it, however my cable package is an old one (back when it was AT&T Cable) so I get a non-DVR box as part of my monthly fee, so I can use it to watch OnDemand if I wanted.

Do you guys miss the On Demand media?

Never had it, though I pay Netflix $5 per month for 2 DVDs per month. This is enough for me.

I was counting on seeing the Cal at ArizSt game in HD, featuring one of the last undefeated teams in the nation. It's listed in the guide for MOJOM 664, but there's no game there. The only place I see it is on FSN 30 in SD.

Anybody know what the deal is?

No I don't. I contacted comcast and they said it was an issue with MOJO. I don't know what to do at this point, but I'm also frustrated. Watching on FSN just isn't the same.

No problems with the cards. Just picked them up at the local Comcast office in Redmond. There is a $1.79 a month fee for the card. You only need one card as long as it is an "M-Card" [Multistream Card]. An "M-Card" will allow you to tune/record two channels at once on your TivoHD.

The M-Card doesn't have any fee. Comcast only charges $1.79 for the second card in a 2 card device. Comcast considers the M-Card as a single card. They may charge you an extra digital outlet fee at around $6.

Hopefully FoodNetwork HD is one of the new channels.

Also, how many of you would leave Comcast if Verizon's FiOS TV became available?

In a heartbeat

The M-Card doesn't have any fee. Comcast only charges $1.79 for the second card in a 2 card device. Comcast considers the M-Card as a single card. They may charge you an extra digital outlet fee at around $6.

They gave me two M-Cards and charged me $1.79 for each. I returned one as superfluous, so now I am only paying for one. And I do pay a second outlet fee for my second outlet of $5.10 a month.

They must be all over the map with the cable card fee, depending on what you tell them. I have one for free, but I don't think it is an M-card (got it for my TV a long time ago). They did ask me if it was for a new tV without a cable box and I told them it was for a TV that already has service through the cable box - it was just for picture in picture. I think that may be why I don't have a charge.

What the hell is up with the clocks? My VCR and phone say it is 8:43 but Comcast and its' programming all say it's 9:43. Did we or did we not switch to standard time last night?

We switch next weekend.

somebody needs to tell AT&T and the PBS stations that broadcast the time for VCR's.

We moved DST up a week a few years ago, and a variety of older electronic devices are still scheduled to switch the last Sunday in October

We moved DST up a week a few years ago, and a variety of older electronic devices are still scheduled to switch the last Sunday in October
The Energy Policy Act just went into effect this year. DST began 3 weeks earlier (second Sunday in March) and ends 1 week later (first Sunday in November).

Any users of EyeTV and QAM: have you started not being able to fetch a guide? TitanTV says it can't find a guide for my area anymore. Just stopped working. Sammamish didn't disappear off the map, so not sure what happened.

I switched from Comcast DVR to Tivo HD over the weekend and am quite pleased. The final straw was waking up one day last week and seeing that all my recordings had been erased. Apparently the POS Motorola DVR decided to reboot and reformat.
Purchased Tivo HD from Amazon for $253, went to Comcast Redmond and got an M-Card (no charge), made a couple of calls to Comcast support to activate it and then re-activiate when it wasn't showing the Digital Cable channels, it took about 24 hours for it to get completely set-up, but now it is working great.
I had missed the Tivo Search features and the way it organizes your recordings. I also enjoy the Tivo wireless connection to my computer to share photos and music. I just decided it was time for me to stop complaining about the DVR and do something about it.

I also enjoy the Tivo wireless connection to my computer to share photos and music.

I realize wireless is a necessity in many cases, but just wanted to note the TivoHD is even better if it is hardwired. Doing so speeds up the networking functions you mentioned. TiVo (very recently) turned on its advanced networking features, including TivoToGo, Multi-Room Viewing, TivoComeback. TiVo also installed an update that lets you watch an Amazon Unbox video while it is downloading.

Any word on NFL-HD?

I think gdeep or someone posted a while back that we'd be getting NFL-HD on Nov 1st. That's only a couple days away now. I've been hearing about all the new HD coming Dec. 6th, but haven't heard anyting about Nov 1st. No messages on my box, or announcements anywhere I know of. Are we even getting this, and if so what channel will it be?

Any word on NFL-HD?

I think gdeep or someone posted a while back that we'd be getting NFL-HD on Nov 1st. That's only a couple days away now. I've been hearing about all the new HD coming Dec. 6th, but haven't heard anyting about Nov 1st. No messages on my box, or announcements anywhere I know of. Are we even getting this, and if so what channel will it be?

I haven't heard anything for awhile, but probably won't be getting such, as it's my understanding that I would have to order a sports package, on top of everything else, to get NFL-HD.

I haven't heard anything for awhile, but probably won't be getting such, as it's my understanding that I would have to order a sports package, on top of everything else, to get NFL-HD.

I hope comcast adds NFL-hd on Nov 1st as I got a email from Steve Kipp with Nov 1st as launch date couple weeks ago. I will get sports package to get this channel.

Anyone else notice some problems with the audio sync on ABC HD during Desperate HOusewives last night (and similar problems the week before)?

I don't have that problems on any other ABC HD shows, or other networks

Anyone else notice some problems with the audio sync on ABC HD during Desperate HOusewives last night (and similar problems the week before)?

I don't have that problems on any other ABC HD shows, or other networks

I've recorded it to my computer, but haven't watched it yet (I watched Dexter instead!!! I'll check tonight.

I was tooling around on comcast.com last night and I believe they've posted new, more limited cable packages along with the higher pricing that takes effect in November. I could be wrong, but this is what I believe the new pricing structures would look like for many of us. Using my cable bill as an example:

NOW: I pay $49.25 for basic cable plus $15.99 for Digital Classic/Digital Preferred/Set-top Box and remote. I also pay $15.99 for HBO, $11.95 for DVR and another $17.05 for a second HD DVR box w/DVR service. The total is $110.23 before taxes.

NEW PRICING: If the new pricing on Comcast.com is to be believed, I would have the choice of Digital Starter for $53.25 or Digital Preferred with HBO for $86.23. The important thing to note is that Digital Starter includes ONLY the local HD networks--no ESPN/ESPN2 or any of the channels in the 600s. For that you need the Preferred Package OR you can tack on the other HD channels for $6.50 per month. So Comcast, the company that has forever crowed about not charging extra for HD is charging extra for HD. Also of note: DVR service is going up again by $2, to $13.95/mo for the first and $19.05 for the second box. That's $4 in price increases for DVR service(!) that is arguably worse than it was at $9.95, not to mention the cost of having two DVRs will now be $33 a month! Running two TiVo's on their month-to-month pricing would still save over $5/mo. on that so I'll be looking hard at switching out my boxes now.

Anyway, if I keep HBO and both DVRs, my bill appears like it will jump to $119.23 before taxes. That's more than the 4% increase they've been claiming.

The real kicker here (aside from the fact that this increase is the second in a year) is that the digital+HBO package is being jacked nearly 6.25%.

This seems pretty outrageous. Does anyone know if the comcast.com stuff is the new pricing scheme?

If I replace my HD box with a TiVo HD, can I still subscribe to a sports package? Or will that not work with a cablecard?

NOW: I pay $49.25 for basic cable plus $15.99 for Digital Classic/Digital Preferred/Set-top Box and remote. I also pay $15.99 for HBO, $11.95 for DVR and another $17.05 for a second HD DVR box w/DVR service. The total is $110.23 before taxes.

NEW PRICING: If the new pricing on Comcast.com is to be believed, I would have the choice of Digital Starter for $53.25

While the digital prices appear to be going up, I also have basic cable for $49.25, and I see nothing that states that is changing???

If I replace my HD box with a TiVo HD, can I still subscribe to a sports package? Or will that not work with a cablecard?

I can't think of any reason it wouldn't work with cablecard, since it's just access to additional channels.

Basic Cable is $52.25

If I replace my HD box with a TiVo HD, can I still subscribe to a sports package? Or will that not work with a cablecard?

On demand is the only thing you will miss if you go to tivo with cable cards. I have had the tivo s3 for almost a year now. with tivo I paid upfront for 3 years so that kept the cost under $10 per month..

Thanks everyone. I just want to make sure I'm not killing my opportunity to get MLB Extra Innings again next season...not that Seattle Comcast even showed the 10 HD games a week they had free access to.

If I replace my HD box with a TiVo HD, can I still subscribe to a sports package? Or will that not work with a cablecard?


Yes, Absolutely. You can subscribe to any premium/sports package with any Cable cards device. When you call Comcast and order, they generally don't know that you are using cablecards, rather than a cable box, unless you tell them.

NEW PRICING: If the new pricing on Comcast.com is to be believed, I would have the choice of Digital Starter for $53.25 or Digital Preferred with HBO for $86.23. The important thing to note is that Digital Starter includes ONLY the local HD networks--no ESPN/ESPN2 or any of the channels in the 600s. For that you need the Preferred Package OR you can tack on the other HD channels for $6.50 per month. So Comcast, the company that has forever crowed about not charging extra for HD is charging extra for HD. Also of note: DVR service is going up again by $2, to $13.95/mo for the first and $19.05 for the second box. That's $4 in price increases for DVR service(!) that is arguably worse than it was at $9.95, not to mention the cost of having two DVRs will now be $33 a month! Running two TiVo's on their month-to-month pricing would still save over $5/mo. on that so I'll be looking hard at switching out my boxes now.

You can still cancel Expanded Basic, but such requires a truck roll (i.e., $15). I spoke to Comcast about this last week, and the CSR reluctantly said such was an option. The savings is about $30. I was going to get limited basic and digital preferred. With the new HD channels coming, the only reason I didn't do this is FSN is not available without expanded basic.

On demand is the only thing you will miss if you go to tivo with cable cards. I have had the tivo s3 for almost a year now. with tivo I paid upfront for 3 years so that kept the cost under $10 per month.....And the ability to archive to a PC via firewire. Most people don't seem to care about that, but with the tiny hard drives on these DVR's and their uncanny ability to spontaneously dump shows I don't know if I have much choice.

Anybody offloading to portable/expanded media from the HDTivo yet?

YES-- just downloaded a couple shows last night from my TiVoHD to my laptop. New TiVo software upgraded last week.

I was tooling around on comcast.com last night and I believe they've posted new, more limited cable packages along with the higher pricing that takes effect in November. <snip>

Anyway, if I keep HBO and both DVRs, my bill appears like it will jump to $119.23 before taxes. That's more than the 4% increase they've been claiming.

The real kicker here (aside from the fact that this increase is the second in a year) is that the digital+HBO package is being jacked nearly 6.25%.

This seems pretty outrageous. Does anyone know if the comcast.com stuff is the new pricing scheme?

They gotta raise rates to afford all the damn advertising they do... I get a couple direct mailers a month for their phone/internet service, got a telemarketing call from them a couple weeks ago for their phone service, and then the onslaught of those awful commercials (everytime I hear that lame "comcast house-mates" jingle I want to put a couple rounds of .45ACP into the TV). Its gotta cost them at least a million bucks each week.

...[B]Anybody offloading to portable/expanded media from the HDTivo yet?

I have only downloaded to my PC. I need to upgrade my software to TiVo Desktop Plus (paid version of PC software) to use TivoToGo with my Palm Treo. I only have TiVo Desktop (free version), which allows me watch on my PC or laptop.

The free version also lets me restore the video from my PC/Laptop if I delete it from my Tivo. This increases my storage space dramatically, as I have 600GB on my PC that is not used.

Are these active?

37 Comcast SportsNet
130 FOX Business Channel
317 Azteca America (KXPD)
717 NFL Network HD
750 The History Channel HD
752 A&E HD
758 USA HD
767 HGTV HD

Nope.

Someone missed the 10/30 deadline.

Someone missed the 10/30 deadline.

Those changes are for the Portland area.

I have only downloaded to my PC. I need to upgrade my software to TiVo Desktop Plus (paid version of PC software) to use TivoToGo with my Palm Treo. I only have TiVo Desktop (free version), which allows me watch on my PC or laptop.

The free version also lets me restore the video from my PC/Laptop if I delete it from my Tivo. This increases my storage space dramatically, as I have 600GB on my PC that is not used.Hey, that's awesome! Can clips be edited out of the downloaded shows?

Those changes are for the Portland area.

Arggghhh! Why were they posted in this thread!!! It's not like Portland is anywhere close to here! Seattle always gets the shaft.

Arggghhh! Why were they posted in this thread!!! It's not like Portland is anywhere close to here! Seattle always gets the shaft.

Someone got an incorrect email from Comcast I guess. Those added 10/30 affected SW Washington and Oregon, not here. We are slated for Dec. 6th for the additions.

I just read the Portland thread. They got the channels yesterday, but most of the content on History and A&E is stretched 4:3 :(

But... Supposedly we get NFL-HD tomorrow. I read most of the shows are not in HD on that either yet, but games and Replay should be in HD.

Hey, that's awesome! Can clips be edited out of the downloaded shows?

Good question? The files are .Tivo, but I was able to import one into Windows Movie Maker. I don't know how to edit anything from here. I have never used this program before.

On a separate note, if I install a digital tv tuner card into my PC, I will be able to stream videos to my Tivo (if I buy the $24.95 TiVo Desktop Plus). If I do this, will I be able to clip the videos I record on my PC?

NFL-HD is 418. First HD program listed is 9:30AM-1PM today -- replay of last season's AFC championship game.

NFL-HD is 418. First HD program listed is 9:30AM-1PM today -- replay of last season's AFC championship game.

I'm getting this channel without sports pack....I don't know why but I will take it.

I'm getting this channel without sports pack....I don't know why but I will take it.


Me too! I expect its temporary, but I will enjoy it while it lasts.

Good question? The files are .Tivo, but I was able to import one into Windows Movie Maker. I don't know how to edit anything from here. I have never used this program before.

On a separate note, if I install a digital tv tuner card into my PC, I will be able to stream videos to my Tivo (if I buy the $24.95 TiVo Desktop Plus). If I do this, will I be able to clip the videos I record on my PC?Based on what I've read, it appears the .Tivo files are simply MPEG-2 files in a Tivo wrapper. There's a free GUI program that will "remove" that wrapper, as well as editors such as VideoRedo.

According to the TivoHD & Series3 MRV/TTG/TTCB: FAQ + Discussion (http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=371710&page=1), TTCB (TiVoToComeBack) has been working with many non-Tivo-wrapped MPEG-2's, so give it a try....
With the free version of TiVo Desktop 2.5.1, TiVo only supports the transfer of .TiVo recordings that you previously downloaded to your computer with TiVoToGo.

Members have found that they can also transfer most SD and HD MPEG-2 (MPG) files, but TiVo does not officially support that with the free version of TiVo Desktop.

I know majority of you have hdtv....But do you have a high def dvd player? I know there is blu-ray and hd dvd. I own both blu-ray and hd dvd players.

Walmart is going to sell hd dvd (toshiba A2) player tomorrow for only 99 dollars. I bought this same player in Jan for 400 bucks. Also you will get 5 free hd dvds by sending in mail in rebate which you can download from toshiba site.

http://holiday.ri-walmart.com/?section=secret
http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/11/01/toshiba-hd-a2-hd-dvd-player-100-this-friday-wal-mart/

I know majority of you have hdtv....But do you have a high def dvd player? I know there is blu-ray and hd dvd. I own both blu-ray and hd dvd players.I love HD and have enjoyed it in our home since 2001. 90% of what I watch is in HD, but I'm holding out on BD and HDDVD because I'm not planning to "support" either format in their current configurations. At this point our DVD's and players/recorders are "good enough" for now. In fact, DVD is better in almost every way (i.e. versatility) except PQ.

I know majority of you have hdtv....But do you have a high def dvd player? I know there is blu-ray and hd dvd. I own both blu-ray and hd dvd players.

Most of my friends in 'the industry' all have Blu-Ray players and believe that BR is going to win the battle. After a few years of sitting on the fence myself, I've decided to pick up a BR player this holiday season mainly because of Blade Runner (a movie which my wife hasn't seen so I figured it'd be a good first Blu-Ray experience for the both of us).

Also, I'm an unashamed Sony loyalist. Everything except my DVR (TiVoHD), media center PC (custom built running Vista & MediaPortal), and universal remote (Logitech) is Sony so that also influenced my choice.

I love HD and have enjoyed it in our home since 2001. 90% of what I watch is in HD, but I'm holding out on BD and HDDVD because I'm not planning to "support" either format in their current configurations. At this point our DVD's and players/recorders are "good enough" for now. In fact, DVD is better in almost every way (i.e. versatility) except PQ.
And AQ. Actually, after watching HD DVD or Blu Ray you begin to see how bad broadcast HD is and SD DVD without upscaling pales in comparison. With upscaling, not so bad, but there is a significant improvement with HDM.

Most of my friends in 'the industry' all have Blu-Ray players and believe that BR is going to win the battle. After a few years of sitting on the fence myself, I've decided to pick up a BR player this holiday season mainly because of Blade Runner (a movie which my wife hasn't seen so I figured it'd be a good first Blu-Ray experience for the both of us).

Also, I'm an unashamed Sony loyalist. Everything except my DVR (TiVoHD), media center PC (custom built running Vista & MediaPortal), and universal remote (Logitech) is Sony so that also influenced my choice.

Blade runner is being released for both formats, HD-DVD and Blu-ray. How does the blade runner release make you choose BLU-RAY over HD-DVD?

Blade runner is being released for both formats, HD-DVD and Blu-ray. How does the blade runner release make you choose BLU-RAY over HD-DVD?

I'm guessing blade runner is what takes him into this HD-DVD/Blu-Ray purchase and Sony is what makes him choose Blu-Ray.

Neither for me. I'll wait. I used to watch dvds upscaled to HD, but now I rarely watch movies. Lots of TV but barely any movies. Not even at the theaters anymore. Maybe it's the 5 month old :)

I'm guessing blade runner is what takes him into this HD-DVD/Blu-Ray purchase and Sony is what makes him choose Blu-Ray.

Neither for me. I'll wait. I used to watch dvds upscaled to HD, but now I rarely watch movies. Lots of TV but barely any movies. Not even at the theaters anymore. Maybe it's the 5 month old :)

I am in the same boat. I dont want to invest in either format but regardless I enjoy shows on TV more than movies these days. Every movie I've been to in the last year has not been worth ~$10. I am far more excited to see next weeks episode of Heros, Lost, The Office, 30 Rock, Mythbusters, Battlestar, Stargate, Eureka, etc.. than any movie coming in the forseeable future. Most movies I have been excited about ended up sucking.

Blade runner is being released for both formats, HD-DVD and Blu-ray. How does the blade runner release make you choose BLU-RAY over HD-DVD?

Like I wrote, most everyone I know in the movie industry have all went Blu-ray and have told me that Blu-ray is likely to win the battle over HD-DVD. I wanted to get in on one of them but I didn't want to jump in, invest in the one that goes away, and then end up with having to upgrade twice. In other words, I didn't want a library of the DVD equivalent of Betamax. The people who've recommended Blu-Ray are people I trust. Sure, they could be wrong but between their confidence, the desire to start watching some high definition DVDs, and my already-extant Sony fandom, I decided to jump in and choose Blu-ray over HD.

Of course, this totally ignores the fact that the real likely winner will be a downloadable solution but I think we're far enough away from that for now to allow BR (or, if you like, HD-D) to be a decent stop-gap.

Reference, I see you referring to Blu-ray as "BR". Isn't the official abbreviation still supposed to be "BD"? Or has it evolved to acceptance of both?

I'm not questioning how nice the picture would "look", but when there are four PC's and four TV's in the house, such as in our family, it's still far too early to start integrating HiDef disc hardware into all those spots when it can still go the route of Betamax. The biggest difference is that the "winner" between Betamax and VHS was settled much more quickly than it looks like this stalemate will be.

I'm not saying that DVD is good enough, but in the big picture it sure seems to be a better option than either HiDef format right now. Having said that, if I was going to gamble on one format, it would probably be Blu-ray because of the rewriteability of the media.

Reference, I see you referring to Blu-ray as "BR". Isn't the official abbreviation still supposed to be "BD"? Or has it evolved to acceptance of both?

I have no idea.

By the way, just because I've chosen to go with one of the two formats doesn't mean that anyone else should.

Enough with this high def dvd player topic. I just wanted to share that there is a sale for one of the high def players. I don't care which side wins or which side is better.

Did anybody had a chance to watch HD program on NFL-HD? If so, how is the pq?

Enough with this high def dvd player topic. I just wanted to share that there is a sale for one of the high def players. I don't care which side wins or which side is better.

Did anybody had a chance to watch HD program on NFL-HD? If so, how is the pq?


Thanks for the info. At $99, I am considering it, even if the format doesn't succeed.

Bestbuy says they have limited supply for 99 bucks, although I don't see A2's listed on their website. Guess you have to call or just go in to find out.

http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/

Bestbuy says they have limited supply for 99 bucks, although I don't see A2's listed on their website. Guess you have to call or just go in to find out.

http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/

Yeah Best buy is all sold out. I called walmart in Renton and the sales person didn't wanted to give me the number of A2 on sale tomorrow but I kept on saying come on. Finally I got number of 30 on sale tomorrow (I don't if that's right).

Based on what I've read, it appears the .Tivo files are simply MPEG-2 files in a Tivo wrapper. There's a free GUI program that will "remove" that wrapper, as well as editors such as VideoRedo.


FYI,The free Gui program does not work under Vista, only XP

FYI,The free Gui program does not work under Vista, only XP


Good to know. Thank you.

According to the TivoHD & Series3 MRV/TTG/TTCB: FAQ + Discussion (http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=371710&page=1), TTCB (TiVoToComeBack) has been working with many non-Tivo-wrapped MPEG-2's, so give it a try. Actually, here is a set of instructions:

http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=371324&page=1&pp=30

Verizon announced FiosTV will carry 150 HD channels in 2008. http://www.electronichouse.com/article/fios_planning_150_hd_channels/ There were rumors FiosTV may be in certain areas of Washintgon by the end of 2008. Anyone have any new info on this?

Comcast is supposed to have around 50 HD channels here in 2008, but I'll beleive it when I see it.

Verizon announced FiosTV will carry 150 HD channels in 2008. http://www.electronichouse.com/article/fios_planning_150_hd_channels/ There were rumors FiosTV may be in certain areas of Washintgon by the end of 2008. Anyone have any new info on this?

Comcast is supposed to have around 50 HD channels here in 2008, but I'll beleive it when I see it.

I'm sure verizon will add 150 channels and hopefully they will start rolling TV service in WA by then. On the other hand I don't believe in Comcast adding 50 channels in Seattle by 2008...It should be more like 2010.

I'm sure verizon will add 150 channels and hopefully they will start rolling TV service in WA by then. On the other hand I don't believe in Comcast adding 50 channels in Seattle by 2008...It should be more like 2010.


I think they should have had 50 HD channels by Q4'2007. :o

Will FiOS ever be available in areas where the current telephone provider is other than Verizon (i.e., Qwest)?

Will FiOS ever be available in areas where the current telephone provider is other than Verizon (i.e., Qwest)?

I don't mean to point out the obvious. But Verizon in Qwest territory...NO.

I don't mean to point out the obvious. But Verizon in Qwest territory...NO.

I said "current" -- maybe Verizon could expand their areas. I don't know what Qwest's hold is on Bellevue, for example.

I'm sure verizon will add 150 channels and hopefully they will start rolling TV service in WA by then. On the other hand I don't believe in Comcast adding 50 channels in Seattle by 2008...It should be more like 2010.

I think by the end of this year we will have 25 HD channels here? Someone posted that they are going to add 30 more in 2008. So that would be 55 by 2008, but you're right, their track record for adding HD around here is not good, and I'm not counting on it. If FiosTV comes to washington then I bet they'll start adding more quickly, but I don't see how they'll compete except in areas that won't have FiosTV.

OK, after working with a very cooperative person at KCPQ, who in turn got Comcast to fix the problem, KCPQ HD can now, once again, be watched on 13-1!

However, my TV can no longer watch it on 111-1, which I thought was the QAM version of KCPQ HD. 111-1 gets automatically remapped to 11-1 = KSTW! Can someone who is using their TVs built in QAM tuner tell me what channel(s) they can find KCPQ HD?

Thanks

OK, after working with a very cooperative person at KCPQ, who in turn got Comcast to fix the problem, KCPQ HD can now, once again, be watched on 13-1!

However, my TV can no longer watch it on 111-1, which I thought was the QAM version of KCPQ HD. 111-1 gets automatically remapped to 11-1 = KSTW! Can someone who is using their TVs built in QAM tuner tell me what channel(s) they can find KCPQ HD?

On my PSIP-capable set, KSTW is showing up on 11-1 and KCPQ is showing up on 13-1. It looks like you and Tribune got Comcast to jump. :-)

On my non-PSIP-capable set, KSTW is still showing up on 111-2 and KCPQ on 111-1, so the transport streams don't appear to have moved (here).

Have you tried a re-scan since they fixed it?

You might also want your contact at Tribune to ask that Comcast fix KMYQ's PSIP. It's been 96-1, not remapping to 22-1, ever since The Tube was axed from 96-2/22-2.

Pastiche -

what happens when you go to 111-1 on your PSIP set?


I didn't even know I'd have to rescan ...

I think I get it now... very weird.

On the PSIP-capable set, I get KSTW on 111-1 and KCPQ on 111-2!

The opposite of where the transports live without PSIP in the other room...

I think I get it now... very weird.

On the PSIP-capable set, I get KSTW on 111-1 and KCPQ on 111-2!

The opposite of where the transports live without PSIP in the other room...

I have NOT done a rescan, butBOTH 111-1 and 111-2 get sent to 11-1 (KSTW HD). Is this likely because my TV "remembers" yesterdays settings, when 111-2 was supposed to get sent to 11? Maybe today comcast really did switch kstw and kcpq ( 111-1 and 111-2 ), which , I guess, is their choice...

I was receiving digital TV guide at 105.1067 QAM. Not there now. Where has it moved to?

Verizon announced FiosTV will carry 150 HD channels in 2008. http://www.electronichouse.com/article/fios_planning_150_hd_channels/ There were rumors FiosTV may be in certain areas of Washintgon by the end of 2008. Anyone have any new info on this?

Comcast is supposed to have around 50 HD channels here in 2008, but I'll beleive it when I see it.

I got a flyer with my utility bill a couple months ago saying Verizon was installing Fios throughout my area in Kenmore...Who knows how long that'll take though

I got a flyer with my utility bill a couple months ago saying Verizon was installing Fios throughout my area in Kenmore...Who knows how long that'll take though

I got this over a year ago, and they were here for a month installing things. But all they currently offer is Internet service. still no TV.

I got a flyer with my utility bill a couple months ago saying Verizon was installing Fios throughout my area in Kenmore...Who knows how long that'll take though

They are pretty fast as far as laying down the cables. Last March they came thru my neighborhood and were gone from my street in less than a week. The entire street was Verizon trucks, a ditch witch and huge spools of orange conduit hose being layed for the fiber.

By mid June, our neighborhood was ready, and I had Fios internet installed. When they came to install, I asked if we'd be getting FiosTV this year, the installer said, no not this year, we will get it next Fall (2008). That is what I was told, and I'm not going to rely on that 100%, but I sure hope it's true.

Please email Verizon and request for FiosTV.

Wow, all 5 PAC 10 football games are on TV today. So much for network agreements to broadcast only one game at a time.

Looks like atleast 2 are in HD: ASU-Ore on ESPN and WSU-Cal on Mojo/664. I'm guessing one of the 2 ABC games will be HD too.

I know the FSN SD feed can be pretty bad, but this Stanford Husky game takes the cake. It is terrible. I swear, all you need to do is turn down the color and it will look exactly like a B&W game from the fifties or sixties.

I am getting really tired of these extremely poor FSN broadcasts.

The only sports that looks worse is their atrocious On Demand High School football games.

I know the FSN SD feed can be pretty bad, but this Stanford Husky game takes the cake. It is terrible. I swear, all you need to do is turn down the color and it will look exactly like a B&W game from the fifties or sixties.

I am getting really tired of these extremely poor FSN broadcasts.

The only sports that looks worse is their atrocious On Demand High School football games.

Ha ha, i thought I was the only one. The UCLA games i have watched were even worse.

I was under the impression that the WSU vs. Cal game was on 664 FSNHD. What's the deal Comcast. I am looking and seeing some movie with Hilary Swank. Come-on!

Just spoke with Comcast support. Apparently they know that the game should be on 664 but they haven't fixed it. Well what in God's name is taking soooo long. If we had a dedicated FSNHD station this wouldn't be happening. If Comcast and Fox didn't have such an icy relationship ie. Big Ten Network, FSN/all regional networks etc. this wouldn't happen either. Can we say overwhelming corporate greed from both sides.

Hey everyone,

I am relocating to the Seattle Metro area (Issaquah/ SAMM/ Snoqualmie area) and curious as to some of the options for HD programming. From reading the threads it seems that people complain about the cable companies (what else is new?).

So what are my options? Cable? DirecTV? Thanks for filling me in!

They are pretty fast as far as laying down the cables. Last March they came thru my neighborhood and were gone from my street in less than a week. The entire street was Verizon trucks, a ditch witch and huge spools of orange conduit hose being layed for the fiber.

By mid June, our neighborhood was ready, and I had Fios internet installed. When they came to install, I asked if we'd be getting FiosTV this year, the installer said, no not this year, we will get it next Fall (2008). That is what I was told, and I'm not going to rely on that 100%, but I sure hope it's true.

Please email Verizon and request for FiosTV.
Geez Another year?...Misery...That Husky game was unbelievably poor quality even for sd

So what are my options? Cable? DirecTV? Thanks for filling me in!

I don't mind Comcast, but then I use a TivoHD for my DVR and that cures a great deal of the ills I had with the Comcast unit, especially in terms of the Guide and functionality.

DirecTV seems to have significantly more HD content then Comcast, but seeing the satellite and apartment/condo rules can impact whether or not it's an option.

FiOS is just starting to roll here, so availability is limited. It is evidently available in my area, but it appears I can't order it (so sayeth Verizon's page).

I don't mind Comcast, but then I use a TivoHD for my DVR and that cures a great deal of the ills I had with the Comcast unit, especially in terms of the Guide and functionality.

DirecTV seems to have significantly more HD content then Comcast, but seeing the satellite and apartment/condo rules can impact whether or not it's an option.

FiOS is just starting to roll here, so availability is limited. It is evidently available in my area, but it appears I can't order it (so sayeth Verizon's page).

po2ter - don't forget free OTA of local HD. Location and surroundings impact this option as they do any dish service. All you need is a UHF antenna and a TV or receiver capable of ATSC reception. Drop on over to the Seattle OTA forum. When you have an exact location we can check your line-of-sight issues.

Did anybody ever get an explanation as to why Comcast never showed the WSU game in HD on 664 even though it was on the channel guide?

I called Comcast about 30 mins into the game and reported the problem, and apparently other people called too, but nothing happened.

Very frustrating!!

I wonder if the DirecTV guys got the FSN HD feed.

Did anybody ever get an explanation as to why Comcast never showed the WSU game in HD on 664 even though it was on the channel guide?

I called Comcast about 30 mins into the game and reported the problem, and apparently other people called too, but nothing happened.

Very frustrating!!

I wonder if the DirecTV guys got the FSN HD feed.

Yeah when i looked on Mojo earlier in the day, and saw in was scheduled for mojo, but didnt have the HD tag attached, i figured it wouldn't be on. Don't know if it was a mojo or guide mistake though.

I just rescanned the channels on my TV, and am still getting BOTH 111-1 and 111-2 to remap (per PSIP) to 11-1. Can anyone else verify if they get the same?

I just rescanned the channels on my TV, and am still getting BOTH 111-1 and 111-2 to remap (per PSIP) to 13-1. Can anyone else verify if they get the same?
Yes I am also getting it on 13.1

Yes I am also getting it on 13.1

Whoops I meant to say (now corrected in original post) that BOTH 111-1 and 111-2 remap to 11-1 (NOT to 13-1)

izub - are they remapping to 11-1 or 13-1 on your TV?

Is there a way, using the new program guide on Comcast's HDTV DVR's to eliminate the channels you are not subscribed to or do not want to view when advancing through channels. The only way I see to do this now is to go through each channel and determine if it is a "favorite" or not. It was easy to edit out these channels using the old channel guide and it would be a pain to go through every channel and determine whether it is a "favorite". Have looked through the various "help" menus but did not see a solution. Hopefully I missed something.

For the record, I cannot believe the mediocrity of this new channel guide, not to mention the constant annoying glitches caused by POORLY written, archaic software. MSFT software (old channel program software) now looks great. Cannot believe the lower cost of the new guide is offsetting the loss of customer goodwill. I took a look at Direct TV the other day, dishes are ugly but I am getting close. The costs look like a push.

Is there a way, using the new program guide on Comcast's HDTV DVR's to eliminate the channels you are not subscribed to or do not want to view when advancing through channels. ...

Nope. the only thing you can do is to create a list of favorites, and then flip through them (ascending) one after another (can't go back).

I'm hoping the Tivo s/w on the motorola boxes will at least add this basic capability (it's one of the reasons I went ahead and bought another Tivo S3)

Not sure what you mean about not being able to go back and forth through the favorites channel guide. Simply set up a favorites list. Once finished and saved, to access it press Guide, then Fav. You can then scroll through your favorites guide either one page at a time (both ways) using the page up/down buttons and one channel at a time using the standard arrow buttons. True, not as good as being able to cull channels from the guide, but it works fine for me.

Whoops I meant to say (now corrected in original post) that BOTH 111-1 and 111-2 remap to 11-1 (NOT to 13-1)

izub - are they remapping to 11-1 or 13-1 on your TV?
Yes 11.1 and 13.1no more 111's

Oregon and SW Washington will be getting regular Discovery HD( not HD theater), The Learning Channel HD, and TBS-HD on Dec. 11th. They also currently have HGTV-HD, which has not been announced for our area yet. I sure hope that means they plan on updating us soon as well, beyond what has been announced for Dec 6th.

Oh wait... I just remembered, FiosTV is now available for ordering in that area... That explains the sudden increase of HD additions in that area and not ours despite we are a much larger market.

I noticed on my set last night that NFL Network HD (418) is no longer available unless you get their Sports Package bundle.

So the freebie is no longer there folks.

Oh well, good while it lasted I guess.

I still want FoodNetwork HD.

This is not because of anything Comcast is doing, but a good bit of news for Seattle-area sports fans. The Seattle Mariners re-upped with FSN for long-term contract that includes a "a significant increase in the number of games broadcast in high definition."

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/baseball/338798_maritv08.html

What happened to the Sonics in HD? Last night's home game was on FSN SD channel 30but not on 664.. . please tell me that this was a mistake? Even an 0-5 team deserves to be shown in HD!

What happened to the Sonics in HD? Last night's home game was on FSN SD channel 30but not on 664.. . please tell me that this was a mistake? Even an 0-5 team deserves to be shown in HD!

The game was on 664 last night. I watched the whole game on 664 in HD.

This is not because of anything Comcast is doing, but a good bit of news for Seattle-area sports fans. The Seattle Mariners re-upped with FSN for long-term contract that includes a "a significant increase in the number of games broadcast in high definition."

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/baseball/338798_maritv08.html

Great!!! The more HD games is always good.

This is not because of anything Comcast is doing, but a good bit of news for Seattle-area sports fans. The Seattle Mariners re-upped with FSN for long-term contract that includes a "a significant increase in the number of games broadcast in high definition."

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/baseball/338798_maritv08.html

Does anyone know the schedule for increased HD broadcasts? :confused: The contract is 12 years long . . .

In any case, I am happy as long as KSTW doesn't simulcast on channel 111 in a little box in the middle of the screen, like they do with most of their content.

Does anybody else have problems with Channel 110? That channel has never worked for me. It always says "One Moment Please". Comcast Central does the same thing too, it only worked for about one week a couple of months ago, but hasn't worked since.

Does anyone know the schedule for increased HD broadcasts? :confused: The contract is 12 years long . . .

In any case, I am happy as long as KSTW doesn't simulcast on channel 111 in a little box in the middle of the screen, like they do with most of their content.

Under this new contract, there are no more KSTW games. All 155 FSN Games will be on FSN only.

FSN will do all home games in HD as they did last year, and will attempt to do as many away games as feasible. Issues that may impede away HD would include transmission limitations and HD truck availability.

Under this new contract, there are no more KSTW games. All 155 FSN Games will be on FSN only.

FSN will do all home games in HD as they did last year, and will attempt to do as many away games as feasible. Issues that may impede away HD would include transmission limitations and HD truck availability.


cool

Does anybody else have problems with Channel 110? That channel has never worked for me. It always says "One Moment Please". Comcast Central does the same thing too, it only worked for about one week a couple of months ago, but hasn't worked since.

This is usually a sign of a poor or low signal. Check all connections in your house and make sure they are screwed on tight. If you have splitters, you may need an amplifier. Try removing all splitters and see if it works.

I noticed on my set last night that NFL Network HD (418) is no longer available unless you get their Sports Package bundle.

So the freebie is no longer there folks.

Oh well, good while it lasted I guess.

I still want FoodNetwork HD.

no big loss IMO. I looked through several days of 418 programming and found one show that I might have watched if there was nothing else on and the DVR was empty (a real rarity). I don't see the point of wasting bandwidth on stuff that is not enhanced by HD and is already available as SD.

Hopefully the bozos at Comcast will flip the switch and we will get the Husky/Beaver game in HD on channel 664. They promised the WSU game last week and no dice, all we got was lousy SD.

This is usually a sign of a poor or low signal. Check all connections in your house and make sure they are screwed on tight. If you have splitters, you may need an amplifier. Try removing all splitters and see if it works.

But every other channel works perfectly fine, never had a problem. Why would I have a poor signal for 1 channel?

But every other channel works perfectly fine, never had a problem. Why would I have a poor signal for 1 channel?

The frequency that 110 runs on is susceptible to interference. As signal quality drops, 110 is usually the first channel to have problems.

The frequency that 110 runs on is susceptible to interference. As signal quality drops, 110 is usually the first channel to have problems.

I think 110 is QAM 64, too. I had problems with that one and The Tube (also QAM 64 when it existed), and tightening the coax connection fixed it.

I've had trouble with 110 the last few days. (Allright, so I'm a Friends junky and will watch it at 7PM when I dont' have anything better to do.)

General and stupid question here. How come HD programs are not always broadcast on HD channels? I know some programs are not always HD, but a friend who has Dish said his HD channels are strictly HD. I really wish Comcast had more HD channels, too...

General and stupid question here. How come HD programs are not always broadcast on HD channels? I know some programs are not always HD, but a friend who has Dish said his HD channels are strictly HD. I really wish Comcast had more HD channels, too...

Your friend is either lying or pulling your leg.

Thanks, that's kind of what I figured.

Your friend is either lying or pulling your leg.


His friend could also be stupid. :D

His friend could also be stupid. :D

True.

I have major problems with Grey's Anatomy. Big time delay of audio after video. Makes it nearly unwatchable or at least extremely annoying. I'm using a Tivo Series 3 HD Player via HDMI. Anyone else seeing this ? I wonder if it's also an issue with non-cable setups.

I have major problems with Grey's Anatomy. Big time delay of audio after video. Makes it nearly unwatchable or at least extremely annoying. I'm using a Tivo Series 3 HD Player via HDMI. Anyone else seeing this ? I wonder if it's also an issue with non-cable setups.

I have an S3 with 2 M cards, connected using HDMI thru a 3x1 HDMI switch to a Panasonic 42" plasma, and no probs at all with Grey's (nor any other show), which I TiVo every week from channel 104. Bummer for you :(

I noticed on my set last night that NFL Network HD (418) is no longer available unless you get their Sports Package bundle.

So the freebie is no longer there folks.

Oh well, good while it lasted I guess.

I still want FoodNetwork HD.

I found that too, bummer. There isn't anything on there now that I want to watch, but later this month (Turkey Day!) they will start broadcasting Thursday night games on NFL Network, and I want to see those in HD! Guess I'll have to add yet another 'package' to get the one extra channel that I want.

Thanks for the info. I guess the problem is not Comcast which helps me narrow it down. I spoke to Tivo who offered to replace the unit if trying component connection shows no improvement (it didn't). It still seems as though this must be a setting or firmware problem but other then suggest a reboot, they didn't have too many troubleshooting tips.

I found that too, bummer. There isn't anything on there now that I want to watch, but later this month (Turkey Day!) they will start broadcasting Thursday night games on NFL Network, and I want to see those in HD! Guess I'll have to add yet another 'package' to get the one extra channel that I want.

Speaking of football, I just got a new HD tv and was watching the Fox Green Bay game, and I noticed the bar that had the score, time downs etc seemed really low..About a 1 1/2 inch gap between the top of the tv.. I went upstairs to my old 4:3 tv and the bar was at the very top of the screen...What gives? Cbs HD game was fine, and the Fox picture was great except the bar seemed low off the top of the tv ...Is this normal? Thanks for any help here...

I got my emailed bill from comcast on friday and reading the pdf version, it did say that on Dec 6th we will be getting four new hd channels. A&E, History, USA and National Geographic. They did turn NFL HD on when they said they would, so hopefully they'll light these on Dec 6th.

Hi izub,

YES, Fox never corrected!
Sometimes, it's bother me but you have to used to,,,,,,,,,

I got my emailed bill from comcast on friday and reading the pdf version, it did say that on Dec 6th we will be getting four new hd channels. A&E, History, USA and National Geographic. They did turn NFL HD on when they said they would, so hopefully they'll light these on Dec 6th.

Cool, so I'm wondering since we are usually a month or so behind Oregon when Comcast upgrades us with the same HD channels, if that means that we will be getting TLC-HD, Disc-HD, TBS-HD, sci-fi HD sometime in Jan? Probably not, but I sure hope so.

Cool, so I'm wondering since we are usually a month or so behind Oregon when Comcast upgrades us with the same HD channels, if that means that we will be getting TLC-HD, Disc-HD, TBS-HD, sci-fi HD sometime in Jan? Probably not, but I sure hope so.

Sci-fi-HD might be enough to make me consider using their DVR again... I wonder how much of the on demand content from the new stations will be available in high def...

I got my emailed bill from comcast on friday and reading the pdf version, it did say that on Dec 6th we will be getting four new hd channels. A&E, History, USA and National Geographic.

Comcast is also running ads on local Seattle radio noting these four channels are coming next month.

ok so i just purchased the toshiba 42lx177. It states that it comes with the HD tuner and is able to watch the few major networks in HD. I went to turn to the channel from the cable box that says HD on it and all it displays is a black screen. Is there somethign you have to do to activate the LCD tv's to display these free HD channels or what?

i'm a new owner to LCD tv's and i want to watch me some HD quality tv provided by my basic comcast cable plan. i dont have the HD plan.

ok so i just purchased the toshiba 42lx177. It states that it comes with the HD tuner and is able to watch the few major networks in HD. I went to turn to the channel from the cable box that says HD on it and all it displays is a black screen. Is there somethign you have to do to activate the LCD tv's to display these free HD channels or what?

i'm a new owner to LCD tv's and i want to watch me some HD quality tv provided by my basic comcast cable plan. i dont have the HD plan.

You should be able to get the HD channels.

ok so i just purchased the toshiba 42lx177. It states that it comes with the HD tuner and is able to watch the few major networks in HD. I went to turn to the channel from the cable box that says HD on it and all it displays is a black screen. Is there somethign you have to do to activate the LCD tv's to display these free HD channels or what?

i'm a new owner to LCD tv's and i want to watch me some HD quality tv provided by my basic comcast cable plan. i dont have the HD plan.

You should be able to get the HD channels with Expanded Basic.

You should be able to get the HD channels with Expanded Basic.

Actually, you should be able to get the local 5-6 channels in HD on the cheapest, Limited cable, for $12.99 per month, or whatever it is these days. I believe it is an FCC requirement.

With that TV, you can probably get rid of the cable box, and run the cable directly to TV and it should find the local HD channels at 4-1, 5-1, 7-1, etc

...
With that TV, you can probably get rid of the cable box, and run the cable directly to TV and it should find the local HD channels at 4-1, 5-1, 7-1, etc

Without an HD box, you must have the cable connected directly to the TV and use the QAM tuner in the TV.

Actually, you should be able to get the local 5-6 channels in HD on the cheapest, Limited cable, for $12.99 per month, or whatever it is these days. I believe it is an FCC requirement.

With that TV, you can probably get rid of the cable box, and run the cable directly to TV and it should find the local HD channels at 4-1, 5-1, 7-1, etc

To clarify, with a Comcast-provided cable box, you will get the HDTV local channels on 104, 105, etc.

With a QAM tuner in an HDTV, the same HDTV local channels will be found on 4-1, 5-1, etc.

I have the Limited Basic service for about $15 and I get all of the local HDTV channels and a few more local SDTV channels (like ION, former PAX) using the built-in QAM tuner in my HDTV.

To clarify, with a Comcast-provided cable box, you will get the HDTV local channels on 104, 105, etc.

With a QAM tuner in an HDTV, the same HDTV local channels will be found on 4-1, 5-1, etc.

I have the Limited Basic service for about $15 and I get all of the local HDTV channels and a few more local SDTV channels (like ION, former PAX) using the built-in QAM tuner in my HDTV.

I understood it this way... that will only work if you have the silver hd-capable set top box. if you have a black set top box or one of the smaller modem-sized ones I do not think it will pass the signal through on the HD channels. in short, you have to run the cable straight to the tv, or get an HDTV capable box. The other guys will definitely correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought that clarification might help.

but if i hook up the cable directly to the tv, i'd lose all the other channels up in the triple digits. Plus i have free HBO for 6 months and without the box, i wont beable to recieve it will i?

but if i hook up the cable directly to the tv, i'd lose all the other channels up in the triple digits. Plus i have free HBO for 6 months and without the box, i wont beable to recieve it will i?

Try splitting the cable (if your signal is strong enough) and feeding both the raw cable and the output from the box to the TV. Then you should be able to switch between them (although I would suggest getting an HD box instead).

The video on last night's Boston Legal episode had some subtle artifacts, almost as if the signal was being overdriven or some sort of edge sharpening was at work. Dark areas had sparkles and a graininess. The commercials and previews seemed fine. Anyone else notice that?

Without an HD box, you must have the cable connected directly to the TV and use the QAM tuner in the TV.
I'm new to this thread and also just got a HD TV last week. I've checked out the comcast site and spoke to three different comcast reps yesterday. Not surprisingly, I got three different versions of reality. I did learn a couple to things however. Seems the "basic" cable provided in the condo I recently moved into is called "landlord basic" and isn't listed among the options on the comcast site. My situation is this: with a direct from the wall coax connection, I get basic cable which includes the local HD channels of which there are 8. To get the other 8 or so, my options seem to be to get the box and "limited basic" for around $20 or just get "limited basic" for around $18 and continue using the direct coax method. I'd like find out if the pq is significant better with the box for $6.50 over the dircect coax connect. Also, are these the only options available? Thanks.

B

I'm new to this thread and also just got a HD TV last week. I've checked out the comcast site and spoke to three different comcast reps yesterday. Not surprisingly, I got three different versions of reality. I did learn a couple to things however. Seems the "basic" cable provided in the condo I recently moved into is called "landlord basic" and isn't listed among the options on the comcast site. My situation is this: with a direct from the wall coax connection, I get basic cable which includes the local HD channels of which there are 8. To get the other 8 or so, my options seem to be to get the box and "limited basic" for around $20 or just get "limited basic" for around $18 and continue using the direct coax method. I'd like find out if the pq is significant better with the box for $6.50 over the dircect coax connect. Also, are these the only options available? Thanks.

B

I'm pretty sure the PQ will be better with the box, because for one thing when they install the box, they'll supply you with component cables, but I swapped those out for HDMI cables which you can get for cheap at [http://www.monoprice.com].

As for which package is the one that'll get you the other HD channels, I can't remember the name of it off the top of my head. However, one tip I would give is when/if you're going to call them about getting whatever package, tell them that you're also looking at DirecTV and they'll most likely cut you a deal.

here's a potential option for you that seems to provide good value - landlord basic (free to you) + digital classic ($12.99) + HD Box ($6.50). the box will generally be easier to navigate with than the connection straight to the TV and you will gain ESPNHD, ESPN2HD, Universal HD, MHD, TNTHD, HD Theater, MOJO w/ FSN events, Versus/Golf Ch HD, and coming soon HistoryHD, A&E HD, USA-HD & Nat Geo HD. Additionally w/ the box you'll get most of the OnDemand content for free including some HD and more to come next year as well as all the SD channels available on the Digi Classic tier.

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To get the other 8 or so, my options seem to be to get the box and "limited basic" for around $20 or just get "limited basic" for around $18 and continue using the direct coax method. I'd like find out if the pq is significant better with the box for $6.50 over the dircect coax connect.
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Without an HD box you won't get any more channels than the ones you now get, no matter what plan you have, because the others will be encrypted. The quality should be the same either way. If your TV would accept cable cards (doubtful) you would get the all the HD channels included in your plan, even without the box.

here's a potential option for you that seems to provide good value - landlord basic (free to you) + digital classic ($12.99) + HD Box ($6.50). the box will generally be easier to navigate with than the connection straight to the TV and you will gain ESPNHD, ESPN2HD, Universal HD, MHD, TNTHD, HD Theater, MOJO w/ FSN events, Versus/Golf Ch HD, and coming soon HistoryHD, A&E HD, USA-HD & Nat Geo HD. Additionally w/ the box you'll get most of the OnDemand content for free including some HD and more to come next year as well as all the SD channels available on the Digi Classic tier.

I didn't think you could go from limited basic to digital classic, I thought they made you buy expanded as well to get digital anything. Anyone else know if this is true?

I have expanded basic cable and a CABLE CARD. If I pay $12.99, will that get me Discovery HD, ESPN HD, etc, and the coming soon HD channels, WITHOUT NEEDING TO RENT (or even use) a cable box?

I didn't think you could go from limited basic to digital classic, I thought they made you buy expanded as well to get digital anything. Anyone else know if this is true?

he said he had landlord basic, not limited. it can go either way with a condo association - most provide expanded basic (called landlord basic) but it is possible that they only provide limited (called landlord limited). however my reply was based on his use of the term landlord basic.

if he only has landlord limited (channels 2-29 & 75-119) then the extra fee for the expanded part would be $35.65. so, there you go.

I have expanded basic cable and a CABLE CARD. If I pay $12.99, will that get me Discovery HD, ESPN HD, etc, and the coming soon HD channels, WITHOUT NEEDING TO RENT (or even use) a cable box?

yes. you'd be going from basically digital starter ($52.25) to digital starter plus digital classic (sorry, the classic part is $14.99 not $12.99 - due to the new prices effective Nov 15th).

he said he had landlord basic, not limited. it can go either way with a condo association - most provide expanded basic (called landlord basic) but it is possible that they only provide limited (called landlord limited). however my reply was based on his use of the term landlord basic.

if he only has landlord limited (channels 2-29 & 75-119) then the extra fee for the expanded part would be $35.65. so, there you go.
Thanks jeff28,wareagle and homerjr for all the useful info. Seems that I'll have to go to a set top box to get all the hd channels. (no card slot in set) One of the problems in making an informed decision is the difficulty getting informed through comcast. The website doesn't match the titles and prices of the various packages available. From the feedback here today and the bits of useful info I got on the phone with comcast it seems that I'll either go with digital classic or limited basic, both of which will require the box and seem to be about the same price. I ordered the hdmi cables from monoprice - great prices there. I was hoping to be able to augment the basic (landlord basic) cable package I now have by somehow just adding the remaining 6 or 8 hd channels but that's not a option. Thanks again to all and sorry for being so longwinded.

B

yes. you'd be going from basically digital starter ($52.25) to digital starter plus digital classic (sorry, the classic part is $14.99 not $12.99 - due to the new prices effective Nov 15th).

What about on my other new HDTV that does not have a cablecard slot - would I need to rent a box for that to get the non local HD channels unscambled?

he said he had landlord basic, not limited. it can go either way with a condo association - most provide expanded basic (called landlord basic) but it is possible that they only provide limited (called landlord limited). however my reply was based on his use of the term landlord basic.

if he only has landlord limited (channels 2-29 & 75-119) then the extra fee for the expanded part would be $35.65. so, there you go.
Yeah, what I have provided seems to be expanded basic. I've only had the set a couple of days, but I believe I'm getting 2 thru a hundred and something. (includes all the 30s,40, 50s and 60s too) I'm quite amazed still with the quality of the hd channels. I've just been on the fence as to whether to pay the 6.50 plus the 12.99 I was quoted yesterday to get the remaining hd channels. (Seems that price has gone up since)

B

What about on my other new HDTV that does not have a cablecard slot - would I need to rent a box for that to get the non local HD channels unscambled?
From what I've learned so far, yes. The other hd channels are apparently encrypted.

B

Man alive... my wife called to tell me that we lost power at home, and it's probably not coming back online until midnight. Does that mean that all my DVR recordings are toast? Such was the case when we had MS guide and had a power outage a year ago.

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Sang

Man alive... my wife called to tell me that we lost power at home, and it's probably not coming back online until midnight. Does that mean that all my DVR recordings are toast? Such was the case when we had MS guide and had a power outage a year ago.

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Sang

I had a DCT-3416 that twice lost everything after either pulling the plug for a reset, or after a power outage. The other DCT-3416 I have has never lost anything, so I took the suspected one in and traded it in for a DCH-3416.

So the answer is - if you've lost recordings before due to a power outage, it might happen again, but then I would just go trade the box in for a new one.

What about on my other new HDTV that does not have a cablecard slot - would I need to rent a box for that to get the non local HD channels unscambled?

Yes. All the non-local HD stations are encrypted over QAM so they require a cable box or cable card for decryption.

alright! No loss of recordings! Good news.

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Sang

The reason why the website doesn't match up is that Comcast is changing pricing and packages in a few weeks. The website has already been updated with the new packages, but I'm sure the phone people are still selling based off the current list.

I had a DCT-3416 that twice lost everything after either pulling the plug for a reset, or after a power outage. The other DCT-3416 I have has never lost anything, so I took the suspected one in and traded it in for a DCH-3416.

So the answer is - if you've lost recordings before due to a power outage, it might happen again, but then I would just go trade the box in for a new one.

My 3416 inexplicably shut off yesterday for about 45 seconds then came back on i lost nothing Very weird...Also the UW game on 105...is anyon e getting an awful hd picture? All my other HD games look great...this seems to be a problem with the cameras at husky stadium All fsn sd games from there suck Any opinions? WTF, can't they get good cameras?

the game is on 104. and my screen shows the black bars on the side...doesn't that mean the game is SD on an HD channel? oh, btw...go dawgs!

the game is on 104. and my screen shows the black bars on the side...doesn't that mean the game is SD on an HD channel? oh, btw...go dawgs! Hmmm that would explain the poor quality...again why doesn't the UW ever televise HD from home? Can't they afford cameras?