It shows on E*'s site that the "SuperDish" can provide Charleston, WV's locals in HD. Guess they're fibbing or something? Besides that, does E* offer "national" ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, etc. in HD? I could care less if I get "local news", I just want to watch "Lost", "24" and "Criminal Minds" in HD, regardless if the FOX, ABC, and CBS is "local" or not.

What makes D*'s HD-DVR better than the new ViP622 offered by E*? Is ESPN2HD ofered in D*'s cheapest HD package? .
I would love to see a screen cap or link where E* says they have Charleston WV locals in HD.

E* offers national networks, but only to those in cretain O&O markets or in truly white areas. Charleston is neither.

D*'s HD DVR is better because it is TiVo based. It has 2 tuners and can record satellite or OTA. It is hackable meaning you can add additional drives to increase capacity. And it for the most part is bug free and records what you want when you tell it. One nice thing about the 622 is that is can output SD programming to another TV and it has a 1-wire requirement. D*'s DVR needs 2 wires to operate both tuners.

ESPN and ESPN2 are in D*'s base HD package for $10/mo. E* charges extra for ESPN2-HD and UHD.

Well then, E*'s site definitely lies. I typed in my address and it congratulates me that the SuperDish would allow me to receive locals in HD. Even down to the "WOWK" and everything, it looks right on.

http://img461.imageshack.us/img461/9264/picture19en.jpg

Well then, E*'s site definitely lies. I typed in my address and it congratulates me that the SuperDish would allow me to receive locals in HD. Even down to the "WOWK" and everything, it looks right on.

http://img461.imageshack.us/img461/9264/picture19en.jpg
Tricky SOB's.

I think you missed this:

Only channels denoted by "HD" are in high definition. Those without this
notation are only available in standard definition. from this page:

http://www.dishnetwork.com/content/programming/dishhd/programming/locals/index.shtml

And IIRC, the SuperDish is no longer used in our area. I may be wrong, but I think the Charleston market now uses the Dish 1000.

For the best DishNetwork info, go here: http://www.satelliteguys.us/forumdisplay.php?f=10

They will be able to give you any info you need.

Anybody else watching the Duke v LSU game on Charter HD? The pic looks great, but my A/V receiver says it's not in DD 5.1. My other HD channels show 5.1 and usually WOWK is in 5.1. Anybody else having this issue?

I don't think WOWK-HD has 5.1 going yet.

Dallas,

The double entry for WVAH is a problem and I believe they are still working on a way to fix that as well. I wanted to make sure you had the new Guide Data before I started complaining 'bout the other thing.

Tony,

Just listened to the DTS track on certain scenes in War of the Worlds and I still have work to do. I let the Auto Setup work it's magic on the Pioneer/SVS combo and I believe the sub is way to hot as a few places caused loud noises that I believe shouldn't have been there. Other than that, this thing rocks the house. In this room, I'll have no need whatsoever for the wonderfull "Bass Shakers" :) !

I don't think WOWK-HD has 5.1 going yet.

I think you're right Herdfan... I have never received DD 5.1 audio from WOWK since they went High Def. But hopefully they will get it soon... :)

D*'s service is substantially less expensive if you just get the HD Receiver without the DVR function.

If I were to get just the receiver, there's no way an HTPC can record the SD or HD content from that receiver, is there?

Is there any standalone DVR unit one could buy from a retailer/e-tailer that would be compatible with recording SD and/or HD content from a D* HD Receiver?

If I were to get just the receiver, there's no way an HTPC can record the SD or HD content from that receiver, is there?

Is there any standalone DVR unit one could buy from a retailer/e-tailer that would be compatible with recording SD and/or HD content from a D* HD Receiver?
Couple of ways you can approach this. You can buy an SD DVR (TiVo) from Wal-MArt if you act quickly. They had a couple yesterday evening (B'ville). Use it to record D* SD and HD recordings OTA from a HTPC. Use a standard HD box for ESPN etc.

OR

Get just a HD box and buy a Stand-alone TiVo. The TiVo will record SD, but not HD. Plus its $13/mo vs. 5 for the D* one.

But if you are really into HD and can get all 4 nets OTA, do what you can to get the HD DVR. I have had one for almost 2 years now and wouldn't trade it for any HT component out there. Yes they are expensive, but to be able to replay plays without having to wait for the show to do it: Priceless. The HD DVR is really a nice piece of equipment if you can deal with a slow guide.

The double entry for WVAH is a problem and I believe they are still working on a way to fix that as well. I wanted to make sure you had the new Guide Data before I started complaining 'bout the other thing.
The double entry is not a "problem" it is an "issue". :D

I was able to set a NBR for Raymond and it worked fine. Again, thank you. D* HD DVR owners all over Charleston are thanking you as they set up a Season Pass for 24. :cool:

Do you have a cat? If so, set up a track with tons of bass and then go watch the cat freak. :eek: ;)

Dallas...

Again, thank YOU for finally explaining what the problem was in a simple enough way for me to understand. I really didn't realize that you guys were having problems recording BECAUSE of the "Regular Schedule" Guide Data.

Also, now that we've got that all sorted out (hopefully forever:)!), do the fine folks using E* have a similar problem with Guide Data? Do I need to include that in my information?

Man. What a bad way to lose :(

WV fans have nothing to be proud of.......the team made a valient comeback..

Also Paul

Thanks so much for straightening out the guide issue..it will make it so much more convenient for scheduling!!!!!!

WV fans have nothing to be proud of.......the team made a valient comeback..


Hmmmmm......not sure I understand that comment. I think it's worded incorrectly and was supposed to be good.

I've also heard Local SD channels on E* look horrid. I think WSAZ on D* is pathetic though. Has (what looks like) snow in he picture. Some sort of digital artifacts. When the tech hooked up my system, before it was done, he told me WSAZ on D* looked really bad, but it looks that way for everyone. Still better than E*, or so I've heard.

HD Lite. Well, I've read an article that E* has also been going HD Lite and that E*, along with many cable companies have decided to downgrade like D* has. Instead of 1920 x 1080i (True HD), they are pushing HD at 1280 x 1080i. HD Resolution is only based on 1080 and 720, so the vertical lines can be whatever. It does affect the resolution though, but this is a loop hole in the legal definition of what is and what is not passable as HD.

Dallas mentioned that ESPN isn't downgraded as it's already 720p. I don't think I'd make a bold statement such as that. Many believe a 720p picture is much better than a 1080i picture. I've also read this, and I agree based on what I have seen from my 1080i Projection TV and my 720p Projector. A 720p program (FOX, ABC, ESPN) looks better on a 720p native display than a 1080i program (CBS, NBC, HDNET,etc.) on a 1080i display. Also, 1080i signals looks better on a 1080i display than a 720p signal on a 1080i display, and vice versa.

I notice this mainly watching basketball and Football. When watching 1080i material on a 1080i Set, I see motion artifacts during fast moving scenes. That is the benefit of progressive scan. You won't see those motion artifacts on a 720p signal on a 720p native display.

There are those that argue 1080 vs 720p. Most Computer fanatics will tell you a progressive scan signal will ALWAYS look better than interlaced. However, with my tests, I've noticed that native display is the best for whichever format you are viewing.

Antenna information:

I opened my window to the basement family room and stuck the indoor antenna out and started moving it around. I found if I point the antenna towards the ground, and turned it so it's facing the brick under the window, I get a signal of around 60% with no dropouts. I was able to watch some of the Duke vs. LSU game (propped it up with boxes), but by the time the WVU game came on, the room was too cold to continue with the window open, so I watched in SD. D* NY CBS feed had another game listed at 10PM. DOH!!!

Dallas...

Again, thank YOU for finally explaining what the problem was in a simple enough way for me to understand. I really didn't realize that you guys were having problems recording BECAUSE of the "Regular Schedule" Guide Data.

Also, now that we've got that all sorted out (hopefully forever:)!), do the fine folks using E* have a similar problem with Guide Data? Do I need to include that in my information?

Paul, I must the only one here with E*. I have no problems with the listings. I record "24" and "Prison Break" in HD with ease. On my 921 they show up just like any other station on Satellite, just in blue instead of grey.

On another note, I can see no differance between 13-1 and 9483 (CBS HD in NY) in picture quality. NY does have Dobly 5.1 though.

Bill in Winfield

Dish's locals are bad, a noticeable decrease in picture quality compared to their other channels such as HBO, etc. and not as good as digital OTA. Their HD is just fine IMO, not quite as vibrant as the OTA channels, but still very good.

The game last night looked excellent, as good as anything I've watched in a while.

I've also heard Local SD channels on E* look horrid. I think WSAZ on D* is pathetic though. Has (what looks like) snow in he picture.

Dallas mentioned that ESPN isn't downgraded as it's already 720p. I don't think I'd make a bold statement such as that. Many believe a 720p picture is much better than a 1080i picture.
From the E* locals I have seen, WSAZ looks much worse on E* than D*. That snow you see on D* is almost a blizzard on E*.

Yeah, downgraded is not the right word. :o What D* does, and E* to a lesser extent is remove some of the horizontal resolution. A 1080i picture should be 1920x1080. D* takes this and sends out a 1280x1080 picture. The full vertical resolution is still there, but some horizontal data is missing. The picture looks soft. E* takes the 1920 down to 1440 on some, but not all channels.

Since ESPN broadcasts in 720p, their native signal is 1280x720. As a general rule, D* does not mess with the signal and passes on what it receives.

As to which is better, last night I was watching the Duke game upstairs on a 768 plasma. My HR10-250 was sending out the CBS 1080i signal as 720p. Game looked great. After my daughter went to bed, I went downstairs to the 1080i CRT and the game did not look as good via the same receiver set to send out 1080i. So it all depends on the set and the source. In my case the 1080 source looked better on a 720 set than it did on a 1080 set.

From the E* locals I have seen, WSAZ looks much worse on E* than D*. That snow you see on D* is almost a blizzard on E*.

Yeah, downgraded is not the right word. :o What D* does, and E* to a lesser extent is remove some of the horizontal resolution. A 1080i picture should be 1920x1080. D* takes this and sends out a 1280x1080 picture. The full vertical resolution is still there, but some horizontal data is missing. The picture looks soft. E* takes the 1920 down to 1440 on some, but not all channels.

Since ESPN broadcasts in 720p, their native signal is 1280x720. As a general rule, D* does not mess with the signal and passes on what it receives.

As to which is better, last night I was watching the Duke game upstairs on a 768 plasma. My HR10-250 was sending out the CBS 1080i signal as 720p. Game looked great. After my daughter went to bed, I went downstairs to the 1080i CRT and the game did not look as good via the same receiver set to send out 1080i. So it all depends on the set and the source. In my case the 1080 source looked better on a 720 set than it did on a 1080 set.

True. Different scalers in differnet displays work differently. I think we can all agree that HD (whether HD Lite, 720p, 1080i or 1080p) still looks great in comparison to SD material. Although, I've noticed a lot of Fox HD programs looking gritty and very dark. Especially the OC. Good thing I don't watch that show anymore..LOL I had it on OC last week D* HD and it looked bad. Switched over to the Antenna and it was equally as bad.

Hmmmmm......not sure I understand that comment. I think it's worded incorrectly and was supposed to be good.

Sorry about that brain f**t.

It was meant to say that "WV fans have nothing to be ashamed of".....

The Mountaineers almost pulled it off.

Sorry about that brain f**t.

It was meant to say that "WV fans have nothing to be ashamed of".....

The Mountaineers almost pulled it off.


I knew what you meant....I was just busting on you a bit :D

It was meant to say that "WV fans have nothing to be ashamed of".....
Yeah they do, they lost to MARSHALL. :eek:

That is the KY equivalent of UK losing to Morehead. ;)

Herdfan ducks and runs for cover. :D

Any advice on where to buy an HDMI cable? I finally talked my parents into a nice LCD, but the HDMI cables at Circuit City are all over $100 . I see a bunch of cheapies at eBay and was wondering if anybody has a seller that they've used before. Thanks.

If you need it now, Best Buy has some A/R cables that are half the price of the Monsters. It will still be $55: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=6821317&type=product&productCategoryId=pcmcat69400050020&id=1091101517438

As for online, check out a couple of the sponsors at the top of the page. BlueJeansCable sells a 6' HDMI cable for around $25. But it will take a week or so to get it.

Any advice on where to buy an HDMI cable? I finally talked my parents into a nice LCD, but the HDMI cables at Circuit City are all over $100 . I see a bunch of cheapies at eBay and was wondering if anybody has a seller that they've used before. Thanks.

I bought mine from Monoprice.com, based upon reviews here in the AVS forums, and they have done just great. The cost was about $20 to $25. A great price. I will try to find a link and post it here soon.

Here it is, mine was $22.85 including shipping, and the price for the 6' now is $2.00 cheaper than when I bought it.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10240&cs_id=1024002&p_id=2219&seq=1&format=2&style=

I second Monoprice.

They're the "NewEgg" of cables.

I second Monoprice.

They're the "NewEgg" of cables.


i "3rd" monoprice

their stuff is high quality at a fraction of the "monster mark-up"

what does a person have to do to get some golf in HD???

what does a person have to do to get some golf in HD???
No doubt!

If there was ever a sport behind football that screams for HD, it would be golf.

So for now, wait a couple of weeks for The Masters. Now in HD since WOWK finally got with the program.

No doubt!

If there was ever a sport behind football that screams for HD, it would be golf.

So for now, wait a couple of weeks for The Masters. Now in HD since WOWK finally got with the program.


So, HD will actually make Golf on TV interesting? :D

Hi guys. I am thinking about purchasing an antenna if it makes sense. I live about 45 miles north of Charleston (Duck, zip=25063) and have recently picked up a 50" SXRD. I have DirecTV service (H10-250 DVR) and I'm currently receiving the NY HD feeds. I would like to get the HD locals OTA if possible to get a better resolution than HD-Lite. Just looking for some advice on which antenna might be the best (if i could even get signal that far away) and what other equipment I might need. Thanks for the help.

Channel Master 4228 or Terrestrial Digital DB8.

You might need a pre-amp as well.

Plug your zip into this site: www.antennaweb.org and it will give you direction and distance to the towers.

Good luck and welcome to the forum.

Ok...just a bit more infor on the Guide Data problem.

Apparently, D* had to send down a firmware update and that caused the double entry for WVAH-DT on all the H10 receivers. Not being that savvy with the upper end of the D* Receiver line, is there anything else OTHER than an H10?

At any rate, they're still working on it...it may go away eventually or may not but at least you can schedule HD Season Passes now.

I am seeing double guide data on my HR10-250.

Not really a problem, yet. When D* lights up our HD locals on the birds, there will be another entry for the satellite delivered HD locals in addition to the OTA ones. It might create an issue then.

But for now, all is good.

Thanks again.

I have tried using antennaweb, but it tells me that there are no stations. That's why I was unsure if I would be able to pick any up from that distance.

Ok...just a bit more infor on the Guide Data problem.

Apparently, D* had to send down a firmware update and that caused the double entry for WVAH-DT on all the H10 receivers. Not being that savvy with the upper end of the D* Receiver line, is there anything else OTHER than an H10?

At any rate, they're still working on it...it may go away eventually or may not but at least you can schedule HD Season Passes now.


I have the Zenith HD SAT 520 and the guide for 11-1 works perfect for me now. Thanks!!! Everything matches 11 OTA and 11 on D*.

I could be nuts...well, actually I am but...

Has anyone else noticed a reduction in Picture Quality on HD channels from Charter?

It seems like ever since they added WSAZ and then went to WOWK...not only do a see more noise (fuzzy pictures) but also the Sopranos has been slightly pixelated at times....which may mean more compression because Charter doesn'thave enough bandwidth.

I could be nuts...well, actually I am but...

Has anyone else noticed a reduction in Picture Quality on HD channels from Charter?

It seems like ever since they added WSAZ and then went to WOWK...not only do a see more noise (fuzzy pictures) but also the Sopranos has been slightly pixelated at times....which may mean more compression because Charter doesn'thave enough bandwidth.


I don't have Charter, so I don't know. But, it was stated in an article I read on the HD Programming Thread that most cable companies have decided to take D*'s approach and scale the resolution from 1920 x 1080 to 1280 x 1080. Maybe Charter has started doing this as well.

I am seeing double guide data on my HR10-250.

Not really a problem, yet. When D* lights up our HD locals on the birds, there will be another entry for the satellite delivered HD locals in addition to the OTA ones. It might create an issue then.

But for now, all is good.

Thanks again.


There's an easy fix for this. Just go into channel settings and remove one of the WVAHs from either received or favorite channels.

I don't have Charter, so I don't know. But, it was stated in an article I read on the HD Programming Thread that most cable companies have decided to take D*'s approach and scale the resolution from 1920 x 1080 to 1280 x 1080. Maybe Charter has started doing this as well.

I haven't noticed any difference since the new channels were added.
But, I'm still ticked about not getting WOWK HD with DD 5.1.

Anybody seen the new trailer for the Silent Hill movie yet? Did you see where the movie is set? Terrible.

http://www.bluealien.org/node/75?PHPSESSID=52ee19ef99d6e1eec2ee2d6991e7410b

Anybody seen the new trailer for the Silent Hill movie yet? Did you see where the movie is set? Terrible.

http://www.bluealien.org/node/75?PHPSESSID=52ee19ef99d6e1eec2ee2d6991e7410b


Yes,

But it's a fictional county if I remember the trailer correctly. So, WV has become the grounds for horror type movies now I guess. First Wrong Turn, now this...LOL!!

Yes,

But it's a fictional county if I remember the trailer correctly. So, WV has become the grounds for horror type movies now I guess. First Wrong Turn, now this...LOL!!

They have changed the name of the county for the movie, but the setting is supposed to be Centralia in Braxton County.

Hey Tony,

Do you have any information regarding a large Verizon Meeting on April 10th?

I have tried using antennaweb, but it tells me that there are no stations. That's why I was unsure if I would be able to pick any up from that distance.


Not sure where Duck, WV is at but I'm 70+ miles north of the Charleston towers and receive all four major networks... 3.1 WSAZ 8.1 WCHS 11.1 WVAH and 13.1 WOWK... I have a very high gain antenna installed now. I used to have two Channel Master 4228's stacked but I took them down and installed a Delhi ( Jerrold ) ALL CHANNEL UHF- VHF-FM TV ANTENNA Deepest Fringe Range VU-937SR with the VU-8PZ Power Zoom attachment. It is up on 4 1/2 sections of tower ( 51 feet off the ground counting the 14' mast pipe. :) ) and I have a rotor and CM 7777 amp installed. Needed the rotor to get 11.1 WVAH, even though 8.1 an 11.1 use the same tower I have to swing the antenna a bit more south to get 11.1 to lock in. You can read more about the antenna I have at the following web address.

http://www.wade-antenna.com/Wade/900%20&%20VU%20series.pdf

No doubt!

If there was ever a sport behind football that screams for HD, it would be golf.

So for now, wait a couple of weeks for The Masters. Now in HD since WOWK finally got with the program.


This is from Dave Weekley's sports column in the 3/28/06 edition of the Charleston Gazette:

In terms of local stations, WOWK-TV13 may have been a little late to the high-definition party but is quickly making up for lost time. Local Charter customers with HDTV service will be able to see four days’ worth of 18-hole coverage from the Masters in high-def for the first time ever beginning on April 6 on WOWK. Calling it the largest HDTV golf production ever, CBS will use 54 high definition cameras at Augusta National, including 10 new hand-held HDTV cameras.

Sheesh, now thats what I call an investment in OTA reception!

In terms of local stations, WOWK-TV13 may have been a little late to the high-definition party
A Little Late?

That's like being a little pregnant. :eek:

Had WVAH/WCHS not had a tower fall, they would have been up at least a year earlier, so WOWK is really 2 years later than everyone else.

And they are touting it like they invented it. Sort of makes you sick. :(

A Little Late?

That's like being a little pregnant. :eek:

Had WVAH/WCHS not had a tower fall, they would have been up at least a year earlier, so WOWK is really 2 years later than everyone else.

And they are touting it like they invented it. Sort of makes you sick. :(


But for the vast majority of HDTV owners, their only method of receiving HD programming is through Charter. From that perspective, WOWK is the inventor. I think it is fantastic that they are getting good publicity so the other stations might follow suit.

Hey Tony,

Do you have any information regarding a large Verizon Meeting on April 10th?


No I don't. But you have me wondering. What have you heard? Is it a Local (WV) Verizon meeting, or a general Verizon meeting? I sit at a desk all by myself as I handle SONET designs for New York City and Boston, MA. So, I don't hear a lot of the Local stuff going on. I'm a remote report. Let me know what you have heard so I can ask some buddies here what they know.

I was told by a Verizon management employee that there was a meeting scheduled to discuss among other things: FIOS. It seems it will start in VA, but work this way. Additional tech support reps are scheduled to be brought in as well.

well, my order for the velodyne vrp 1200 sub was cancelled as the distributor advised out of stock and not sure when they will have more.

so i went back to my almost 2 month old sub hunt mode. based on a lot of research and several recommendations i decided to shell out a couple more bones and get the svs pb10.

if it is half as good as all the stuff i've read, i will be very happy.
**************
...and on a different note. i grew-up in braxton county (gassaway). hopefully this movie wont suck and add to the wv stereotype.

As you know I have been fighting with my antenna to receive WOWK DT. I spoke to an engineer at WOWK an explained to him that I get all the other stations including WSAZ-DT perfectly and WPBY DT perfectly but cannot get WOWK no matter how hard I try. He seemed to think the tower was " over shooting" my antenna since I only live appx 7 miles from the WSAZ, WOWK, and WPBY towers. Makes no sense to me...but I think I may invest in a new antenna this summer ( getting ready for NFL). Are there any local dealers selling GOOD antennas?

Are there any local dealers selling GOOD antennas?
Wilk's TV in Huntington can get you any of the Channel Master antenna's. Not sure about the Terrestrial Digital's. It will take about a week.

I was told by a Verizon management employee that there was a meeting scheduled to discuss among other things: FIOS. It seems it will start in VA, but work this way. Additional tech support reps are scheduled to be brought in as well.


I will talk to a few people. Most the people in this State don't have anything to do with Fiber to the Prem, so they may be mislead a little. It may be a meating to discuss how Verizon in WV can obtain FTTP to gain FIOS. I'd vote for it, but don't see it happening. I'm thinking Verizon WV will be sold within the next 10 years...just my opinion. Only reason it's still a money maker for the company is because they aren't investing in all the FTTP, etc. Our Techs go out and fix the same troubles OVER and OVER and OVER because they aren't shelling out the Capital dollars for new fiber or copper in this state. Once more people go wireless and drop land line service, by by Verizon WV.

I'd love for some big wigs in Charleston to make a stink about us not having FTTP and FIOS. Maybe it would push our Senior Executives to look into FIOS for the Charleston area. If it happens, I'm sure it will be a very small area that can obtain it.

So, I'm at Big Sandy in South Ridge last night. We were buying some dining room furniture. As my wife was with the Sales Lady inputting our information into the computer, I took a stroll back to the TV section.

First....all the TVs looked horrible due to bad lighting and no calibration. Typical, I know.

I then walked around and saw two Sales Associates talking to a Customer who was looking at smaller HD TVs. LCDs. The Customer said "I like the one in the top right corner. Now, is that an LCD or an HD?"

The first sales associate said "You know, that's a good question, let me check. Ummmmm......Sir, I believe it's LCD.". The other Sales Associate piped in with "It can't be LCD because the sticker says HD"

Ouch. That is bad but not surprising.

So, I'm at Big Sandy in South Ridge last night. We were buying some dining room furniture. As my wife was with the Sales Lady inputting our information into the computer, I took a stroll back to the TV section.

First....all the TVs looked horrible due to bad lighting and no calibration. Typical, I know.

I then walked around and saw two Sales Associates talking to a Customer who was looking at smaller HD TVs. LCDs. The Customer said "I like the one in the top right corner. Now, is that an LCD or an HD?"

The first sales associate said "You know, that's a good question, let me check. Ummmmm......Sir, I believe it's LCD.". The other Sales Associate piped in with "It can't be LCD because the sticker says HD"

I don't have Charter, so I don't know. But, it was stated in an article I read on the HD Programming Thread that most cable companies have decided to take D*'s approach and scale the resolution from 1920 x 1080 to 1280 x 1080. Maybe Charter has started doing this as well.

I think you are probably right.

Upon watching the Sopranos again tonight...there are at least a couple scenes in which the top of the character's heads are off the screen. When I switch back to the Standard Def version...this same scene does not have the cropping and also is in letterbox!

So, there has to be some type of zoom occurring...

I'll be getting a dish for sure once they go to MPEG-4.

I think you are probably right.

Upon watching the Sopranos again tonight...there are at least a couple scenes in which the top of the character's heads are off the screen. When I switch back to the Standard Def version...this same scene does not have the cropping and also is in letterbox!

So, there has to be some type of zoom occurring...

I'll be getting a dish for sure once they go to MPEG-4.


Actually, I have noticed that. But, it was on the NBC HD feed here in Parkersburg (WTAP). I was watching Conan, and it just looked weird, because part of his desk wasn't in the shot like it normally is. And sure enough when I switched back to the analog feed it was there. That is ****in ****. One of the benefits of HD is that you're supposed to get the "whole picture" not some zoomed crap.
Anyone with OTA signal noticed this?

It was posted on here earlier than WSAZ HD would be back on Charter by March 31, 2006.

Anyone heard the most recent status?

anthing about wowk on armstrong?

i've had wsaz since the olympics and figured wowk would be next...

anthing about wowk on armstrong?

i've had wsaz since the olympics and figured wowk would be next...


I haven't heard a word about it. I called them and asked them to request it. Maybe you should do the same so we can get the word out that we want it on Armstrong.

It was posted on here earlier than WSAZ HD would be back on Charter by March 31, 2006.

Anyone heard the most recent status?

I have inquired, and am waiting on an answer. Will let you know if I find anything out. This was the last I heard from Charter:

<<< 03/10/06 9:40 AM >>>

"You may have heard that Charter is being sold to a company called Cebridge Connections. The pending sale has caused some questions on going forward negotiations with WSAZ but should not be insurmountable."

You can tell is was a beautiful weekend in WV. No posts on this thread since Friday morning...

You can tell is was a beautiful weekend in WV. No posts on this thread since Friday morning...


golf and taking the wife to see Matthew McConaughey took care of the weekend...

taking the wife to see Matthew McConaughey took care of the weekend...
For me it was taking my daughter to Ice Age 2. :)

Did go to the Home Show today at the Civic Center. Sodaro's had a display. They had a projector and 6.1, but it didn't really have a HT feel like it should. Orange plastic chairs don't cut it as seats. They had a side room and could have done a great job, but sadly they didn't.

But the wife did find a closet system she liked. :(

...and I'm actually not referring to WOWK specifically.

I know it's "tradition," but every year I have to rant about how dumb it is that CBS only televises around 8 hours of Masters coverage and then only on the weekend. I was looking forward to an entire 4 days seeing gold in HD for the first time until I remembered that CBS doesn't have any coverage the first 2 days. I guess my anger should be directed at Augusta National because I'm sure the lack of TV is their mandate.

...and I'm actually not referring to WOWK specifically.
You should be. It looks like CBS is providing the HD feed for stations that want to use it on Thursday and Friday.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7300441&&#post7300441

But there is good news for D* and E* subs. UHD will carry coverage on Thursday and Friday from 4-7. This will mirror USA's coverage. E* subs need the new MPEG-4 HD receivers though.

Interesting...I got my info from the TV schedule that's on the official site (masters.org). No mention of UHD there or in my guide yet, but that post sounds official so I guess I'm a little less bitter.

Its in my D* guide for UHD tomorrow at 4:00p.

Just got home and I had a reply from Bill Galloway.

WOWK-DT will be showing The Masters in HD on Thursday and Friday from 4-7. :)

HOLY CRAP!

i have wowkhd on Armstrong!

for some reason it says, "For ordering information, press info".
when i press info, nothing...

sweet! looks like hd for the masters!

HOLY CRAP!

i have wowkhd on Armstrong!

for some reason it says, "For ordering information, press info".
when i press info, nothing...

sweet! looks like hd for the masters!

I noticed the same thing, too bad they couldn't have had it a couple of weeks ago for the NCAA.

I noticed the same thing, too bad they couldn't have had it a couple of weeks ago for the NCAA.


yup

this is the only channel i can not get a solid/consistant signal OTA. I watched 2.5 games and then gave-up on the antenna dance.

now if 11 and 8 get on, i'll be able to dvr all my shows in hd.

I think I'm about to cry.

After months of going out onto the porch roof to adjust the antenna after the wind had bent the flimsy metal that attached it to the D* rig, I finally got the heavy duty tripod from Radio Shack yesterday. Even got a 10' mast, so even though it's not on the tip-top roof, it's still pretty high on the roof of my porch overhang.

I was able to improve 3-1 from the high 60s to mid 80s and the WPBY channels from nothing to the high 70s, but 13-1 was still not any higher than 72-73; though it was steady and good enough to lock signal. Well, I also got a quick first test of the setup with last night's storm and everything held up well...except for freakin' WOWK! The signal is bouncing around below 10 now and I'm out of ideas. Everything else is still strong, so I know it didn't get moved. Sorry to vent, but the idea of having to watch the Masters today via the SD signal...<shudder>.

...the idea of having to watch the Masters today via the SD signal...<shudder>.


not to pour salt in your wound...

i'm watching the round1 replay on uhd now and it is beautifull!

everything is in full spring bloom and looks great.

Yeah, yesterday I was comparing the WOWK-HD signal with UHD and couldn't really see a difference. But then again I was just happy to be watching golf in HD.

I'm just perplexed at how I could have the antenna completely locked down and virtually immovable one day...and getting the 13-1 signal in the 70s...and then the next day it's essentially gone. I went back out on the roof and literally rotated the mast by centimeters until I found a spot where I can barely get it at 60, which should be enough. Of course, I just heard on the radio that they've suspended play. I just can't win with this stupid thing :)

For anybody who's up this morning, Masters third round coverage is also on UHD.

ramy (or anyone else with armstrong cable),

are you able to get wowk (113)?

it is still on my program guide but says to hit info for ordering info...

I have been informed that the WSAZ-DT / Charter retransmission agreement has been finalzied and could be signed any day.

Great news. Hopefully it will be up before the weekend.

ramy (or anyone else with armstrong cable),

are you able to get wowk (113)?

it is still on my program guide but says to hit info for ordering info...


I had to call them and have them send the signal to me again and it works now.

Do any of you Charter customers have their HD-DVR?

If so how is its operation overall?
Can you record 2 shows simultaneously?
Can you set up a "season pass" (i.e tell it to record all episodes of CSI without recording the repeats)?
Does it reliabily record shows (it doesn't miss shows you set it to record)?

Do any of you Charter customers have their HD-DVR?

If so how is its operation overall? I have the Charter DVR, and absolutely love it...it truly changes the way you watch TV.
Can you record 2 shows simultaneously? Yes, you can also record 2 shows, and watch a recorded show simultaneously.
Can you set up a "season pass" (i.e tell it to record all episodes of CSI without recording the repeats)? Yes, you can have it record only new episodes.
Does it reliabily record shows (it doesn't miss shows you set it to record)? It has been reliable so far for me, and I have had it for about a year and a half.

I had to call them and have them send the signal to me again and it works now.


mine works fine now

just wish they had 5.1

^^ Wait, wait...

you have a Charter "HD"-DVR? Or just a normal DVR? I didn't think Charter was broadcasting HD through their DVRs in Charleston, WV yet...did I miss something? If they are, what's your monthly charge for the HD-DVR, and do you get ESPN and/or ESPN2 HD through it?

^^ Wait, wait...

you have a Charter "HD"-DVR? Or just a normal DVR? I didn't think Charter was broadcasting HD through their DVRs in Charleston, WV yet...did I miss something? If they are, what's your monthly charge for the HD-DVR, and do you get ESPN and/or ESPN2 HD through it?


Yes they have HD-DVRs. The one my parents have is Scientific-Atlanta Explorer 8300HD. I am not sure what the monthly charge is but I can check. ESPN HD is available. However, ESPN2 HD is not yet available.

^^ Wait, wait...

you have a Charter "HD"-DVR? Or just a normal DVR? I didn't think Charter was broadcasting HD through their DVRs in Charleston, WV yet...did I miss something? If they are, what's your monthly charge for the HD-DVR, and do you get ESPN and/or ESPN2 HD through it?


The charge for the HD-DVR is $9.99 per month...and then another $4.99 for the HD service.

^^ BEAUTIFUL!!!

I had a SA 8300HD here in Raleigh and it was fabulous; no huge antenna on my roof, no dish to deal with, etc. I had heard Charter had not yet brought HD to the area, but this is awesome!

What's the packpage you have to have to get the HD-DVR & HD service? In other words, what's the package you have to purchase in order to get HD as well; I'm pretty sure you can't just order basic cable + HD, right? They'll make you order some digital package first, eh?

^^ BEAUTIFUL!!!

I had a SA 8300HD here in Raleigh and it was fabulous; no huge antenna on my roof, no dish to deal with, etc. I had heard Charter had not yet brought HD to the area, but this is awesome!

What's the packpage you have to have to get the HD-DVR & HD service? In other words, what's the package you have to purchase in order to get HD as well; I'm pretty sure you can't just order basic cable + HD, right? They'll make you order some digital package first, eh?

Personally, I don't know the answer to that one....I have the digital package also...but I don't know if that is a requirement to receive the HD channels...it may be.

FYI, Charter has ESPN HD; Discovery HD Theater; WOWK HD (CBS); TNT HD and also the HD feed of any premium channels ie. HBO, Starz. Also, WSAZ HD (NBC) is on the way.

Personally, I don't know the answer to that one....I have the digital package also...but I don't know if that is a requirement to receive the HD channels...it may be.

FYI, Charter has ESPN HD; Discovery HD Theater; WOWK HD (CBS); TNT HD and also the HD feed of any premium channels ie. HBO, Starz. Also, WSAZ HD (NBC) is on the way.


So you don't get ABC nor FOX in HD through your Charter HD service?

So you don't get ABC nor FOX in HD through your Charter HD service?
I have DirecTV but as I understand it Charter has not signed a contract to carry HD with Sinclair, who owns the Charleston/Huntington FOX and ABC stations.

^ argh, that sucks...any idea when Charter will have ABC & FOX through HD?

^ argh, that sucks...any idea when Charter will have ABC & FOX through HD?

with wowk and wsaz on all the local cable carriers, i would assume sinclair has a lot of pressure to "get on board" soon

with wowk and wsaz on all the local cable carriers, i would assume sinclair has a lot of pressure to "get on board" soon


Up till now there has been some type of impass between Sinclair and Charter for all of Sinclair's HD stations (across the country). Hopefully, Cebridge will have a better relationship with Sinclair.

Up till now there has been some type of impass between Sinclair and Charter for all of Sinclair's HD stations (across the country). Hopefully, Cebridge will have a better relationship with Sinclair.


Cebridge only has two areas in the country that even offers HD service. I'm sure they will keep Charter's existing HD when they take over in July, but wouldn't hold my breath for MORE HD in the near future. Since Cebridge only has HD somewhere in CA and TX, appears that's not their priority. I'm in the old Cebridge area and hope that they offer us the same thing that you Charter folks now receive.

So, any of you lucky guys have one of the new Toshiba HD-DVD players just released?

i would assume sinclair has a lot of pressure to "get on board" soon

You assume incorrectly. Time, as well as other factors, are on "our" side on this one.

So, any of you lucky guys have one of the new Toshiba HD-DVD players just released?

I ordered one from Value Electronics which I should have in my hands in about 12 hours hehe. I decided on VE because of their 90 day replacement thing. With all the problems of the HD-Tivos getting those things replaced all the time... I wanted to get Batman Begins but thats delayed so they will send that and Chronos whenever they are released. I did order Serenity from another place which should arrive in a couple days.

so excited about the thing cant sleep hehe well that and the alcohol :)

You assume incorrectly. Time, as well as other factors, are on "our" side on this one.

The above appears to be Sinclair's corporate position. Here is a good synopsis of how consumers react to this argument.


http://quest15.blogspot.com/2005/12/why-i-hate-sinclair-broadcasting-or.html

I ordered one from Value Electronics which I should have in my hands in about 12 hours hehe. I decided on VE because of their 90 day replacement thing. With all the problems of the HD-Tivos getting those things replaced all the time... I wanted to get Batman Begins but thats delayed so they will send that and Chronos whenever they are released. I did order Serenity from another place which should arrive in a couple days.

so excited about the thing cant sleep hehe well that and the alcohol :)


When you get it, after you mess with it a while, would you mind posting what you think of the player? I'm interested in knowing how well you think it upconverts a Standard DVD compared to your current DVD player. I've been reading the reviews on here, but I see a lot of good and a lot of bad. Instead of sifting through 100 pages, I thought it would be better coming from someone local.

What kind of TV Setup do you have?

Would you mind in the near future if a few of us had a get together to check this thing out? I knew another person on the Local thread looking into this player, but we wanted to check it out in person first. No Hurry.

I ordered one from Value Electronics which I should have in my hands in about 12 hours hehe. I decided on VE because of their 90 day replacement thing. With all the problems of the HD-Tivos getting those things replaced all the time... I wanted to get Batman Begins but thats delayed so they will send that and Chronos whenever they are released. I did order Serenity from another place which should arrive in a couple days.

so excited about the thing cant sleep hehe well that and the alcohol :)

Also let us know if you can watch full resolution from the component video cables. I don't have any HDMI or DVI inputs on my TV. *I had to be an early adopter* :)

Has anyone in this area switched between Adelphia and satellite? If so have you noticed any big differences in quality (or anything else) so far?

Has anyone in this area switched between Adelphia and satellite? If so have you noticed any big differences in quality (or anything else) so far?

I have Armstrong and D* and can notice some differences on some of the channels and some there isn't that big of a difference. The most significant difference is between HDNet on both, much better on cable.

I have Armstrong and D* and can notice some differences on some of the channels and some there isn't that big of a difference. The most significant difference is between HDNet on both, much better on cable.

Do you think that overall cable gives you a better picture for the most part or is it kind of give and take? I'm thinking about switching over from Adelphia to E* mainly because the pic quality of the local channels I have seen through satellite appears to be much better than mine (but the fact that they have over 20 HD channels sure doesn't hurt).

I'm thinking about switching over from Adelphia to E* mainly because the pic quality of the local channels I have seen through satellite appears to be much better than mine (but the fact that they have over 20 HD channels sure doesn't hurt).
Have you seen local channels, particularly WSAZ, on E* or D*? I have a neighbor who has E* and WSAZ looks terrible. On D* its not too bad, but still not what it should be.

Also, do get too caught up in E*'s 20+ HD channels. Many, like 10, of them are the old Voom channels. They are fine if you will watch anything because its in HD, but not really compelling content IMHO. And D* will have the capacity in 2007 for almost every national HD channel available. Whether or not we get them is another question, but they will have the capacity.

Do you think that overall cable gives you a better picture for the most part or is it kind of give and take? I'm thinking about switching over from Adelphia to E* mainly because the pic quality of the local channels I have seen through satellite appears to be much better than mine (but the fact that they have over 20 HD channels sure doesn't hurt).

I agree with what Herdfan said. I have had E* too, for a short time and just for the HD from them. I am not going to switch from D* for the forseable future. The only reason I have cable too is because of the deal they gave me for a year. It was only $5 more for the HD and DVR over my cable modem only that I had so I took it.

I haven't done a lot of comparison, but my wife complains about the quality of the picture we get on all of our locals through Adelphia Digital, particularly WVAH. She says that American Idol through our friends D* looks much better. Our HD channels fed to our Sony GWIII (720P) through component look as good as anything I've seen at that resolution, but our SD channels are hit and miss. The higher numbered channels look pretty good for the most part, but the lower channels are anywhere from decent to pretty bad. Anything would have to be better than our WCHS feed, as it is badly broken up with horizontal lines that cover the screen. I have been downloading a Divx version of Lost each week that is not quite up to HD quality but is a far cry from what I have to look at on WCHS.

I haven't ruled out D*, but there is a large jump in features for me by moving to E*, (20+ HD channels, HD DVR, OTA tuner, parental control of all sets in the house, and potentially better pic quality). I can't get all of that with D* without paying quite a bit more money than I already am.

When you get it, after you mess with it a while, would you mind posting what you think of the player? I'm interested in knowing how well you think it upconverts a Standard DVD compared to your current DVD player. I've been reading the reviews on here, but I see a lot of good and a lot of bad. Instead of sifting through 100 pages, I thought it would be better coming from someone local.

What kind of TV Setup do you have?



A few quick first impressions.
The Toshiba HD-A1 is as noisy or just a tiny bit noisier then an xbox but its a larger fan so not as irritating.

I can instantly tell its a lot better at upconversion then my cheap Zenith 318 DVD player.

Regular DVD upconvert only works through HDMI. I supposed one could re-rip commercial DVDs to dual layer to remove macrovsion and so forth but at $2 a pop would get expensive fast

It will output HD-DVD through component from everything I have read. This is also dependant on some flag on the HD-DVD disc it self not the player. (dont have a commercial HD-DVD disc to test test out yet)

I did make a mpeg2 HD-DVD with Ulead 5 from a clip of conan o brian I burned it on a DVD-R. There was little to no loss of quality from what I could tell. Just 5 minutes took a couple hours with ulead who knows how long 42 minute segment conversion would take.

gonna try a whole episode of bones if it fits on a dvd-r it was 4.2gigs with commercials so with commercials removed hopefully it will fit on a single layer dvd-r.

My TV is Toshiba 46H84 my equipment list is in my profile...

A few quick first impressions.
The Toshiba HD-A1 is as noisy or just a tiny bit noisier then an xbox but its a larger fan so not as irritating.

I can instantly tell its a lot better at upconversion then my cheap Zenith 318 DVD player.

Regular DVD upconvert only works through HDMI. I supposed one could re-rip commercial DVDs to dual layer to remove macrovsion and so forth but at $2 a pop would get expensive fast

It will output HD-DVD through component from everything I have read. This is also dependant on some flag on the HD-DVD disc it self not the player. (dont have a commercial HD-DVD disc to test test out yet)

I did make a mpeg2 HD-DVD with Ulead 5 from a clip of conan o brian I burned it on a DVD-R. There was little to no loss of quality from what I could tell. Just 5 minutes took a couple hours with ulead who knows how long 42 minute segment conversion would take.

gonna try a whole episode of bones if it fits on a dvd-r it was 4.2gigs with commercials so with commercials removed hopefully it will fit on a single layer dvd-r.

My TV is Toshiba 46H84 my equipment list is in my profile...

Thanks for the comments. We will be waiting for your first post after watching a true HD DVD on the thing. I've read where Serenity isn't all that great (not the WOW factor you'd think of), but The Last Samurai is.

Did anyone else have a problem with WSAZ HD last night?
My signal was showing at 66-67% which is enough for me to view it but the signal was not present (no video or sound). I am wondering if it is something in my 811.
The FOX signal was fine.

Its a miracle....I get WOWK. I think they did something because my wife said that she tuned to WSAZ to watch her soap and WOWK was broadcasting on that ch. They must have boosted their power or something?

Rumor has it( take it for what it is worth)...WOWK improved thier signal for the local HD broadcast on D*****. I was told that D*** will roll out our market " Very Soon" Columbus was rolled out yesterday and 16 more markets will be rolled out by " Mid YEAR". All D****local markets will be up by this time in 2007 and they will add 150 national HD channels including Cinemax, Starz, Fox Sports, and National Geographic HD!

Good news indeed!

The next 16 should roll out in early and late May. That will be a total of 36 markets. If D* rolls out 8 markets every month, we should be up before the end of the year.

But as of today, there is no way to record these new D* locals. Their MPEG-4 HD DVR is in a perpetual state of delay. Latest target is fall 06. So for now, I will stick with my MPEG-2 HD TiVo and record them OTA.

One thing going for us is that Sinclair has a national agreement with D* for the HD feeds. So with 2 stations already signed, it probably make negotiations easier with the other 2.

Did anyone else have a problem with WSAZ HD last night?
My signal was showing at 66-67% which is enough for me to view it but the signal was not present (no video or sound). I am wondering if it is something in my 811.
The FOX signal was fine.
I received the following message from WSAZ in response to my request for info on the status of their HD broadcast:

A storm has damaged our digital microwave path. We received a loaner today but it appears it was damaged in shipping. We hope to have it back on the air next week. Thank you. Aaron Withrow
--------------------------

The above appears to be Sinclair's corporate position. Here is a good synopsis of how consumers react to this argument.

Hey there...I don't usually agree with Corporate but on this I do. Without going into any specifics, I don't think the cable thing is going to be settled before the Cebridge deal is completed. At that time, who knows.

Something you all may or may not know. For years, cable was the broadcasters friend. It was a win/win situation. Now, they make huge amounts of money and for my two stations, we're a large part of that. Say what you will but if the Big Four weren't on cable, I doubt they'd have the subscribers they do. Yeah, sure...you have a LOT of other choices but if that were really true, would any of you be having this argument with me? It seems that at least one of the two satellite companies has already decided that they should come to an agreement with corporate and make nice. I have absolutely no idea what the deal was but it was apparently acceptable to both parties and as Herdfan has stated, D* will be carrying the HD signal at some point. I'm sure the E* will as well since the subsribers will drain away if they don't. How does this differ from cable? Yes, right now I "believe" the "pay us for our HD Signal" is the deal on the table but I don't know if that will be the whole enchilada as I don't have access to that level. It may well be something totally different. Believe it or not, the corporate entity doesn't always give the local guys all the information.

I did read an interesting industry article on Friday that stated Broadcasters should rethink Retrans agreements...letting go of the "Pay Me" option in favor of something else. Does that mean anything? Again...who knows.

I do know that right now, you can receive both ABC and Fox with an antenna and not pay cable anything. I live in Fayette county and I get the big four with no problem and don't even have access to cable. Done deal for me and the price won't raise every time someone get a wild hair.

Yes, right now I "believe" the "pay us for our HD Signal" is the deal on the table but I don't know if that will be the whole enchilada as I don't have access to that level. It may well be something totally different. Believe it or not, the corporate entity doesn't always give the local guys all the information.



Yes, it is quite possible that, on a national level, Charter is not willing to give Sinclair the same "deal" that our local Charter gave WSAZ and WOWK. If that is the case, national Charter would appear to be in the wrong.

As for OTA, I would like to invest in the equiptment, but my wife likes cable and I keep thinking they broadcast stations will end up on there soon.

Hey...this is what happens with new tech sometimes. Believe, me as the Promotion guy, I would have LOVED to have been on cable before the competition but those decisions are not up to me and I have to live with them.

I'm now sure that nothing will be resolved until the Cebridge deal is in place...Charter is pretty much DOA in WV now so there's really no reason to even talk.

As an aside, is WSAZ actually still on? I thought I read somewhere that the Charter/Cebridge change quelled their deal...

As an aside, is WSAZ actually still on? I thought I read somewhere that the Charter/Cebridge change quelled their deal...

Heard this morning that WSAZ-DT will be on Charter "any day now."

**Everyone please knock on wood** :eek:

^ That's awesome! The more channels available through Charter's HD DVR, the better!

On a side note, have any of you dined at "The Chop House" in Charleston? I'm thinking of applying there to work some nights and weekends when I move up to supplement my income and get some restaurant experience. Is this a good restaurant? Usually busy? Opinions?

^ That's awesome! The more channels available through Charter's HD DVR, the better!

On a side note, have any of you dined at "The Chop House" in Charleston? I'm thinking of applying there to work some nights and weekends when I move up to supplement my income and get some restaurant experience. Is this a good restaurant? Usually busy? Opinions?


Took my wife there a few months after it opened. Not my style, but a nice restaurant. I would have preferred going to the Outback two times for the same price I paid for a meal at the Chop House. It's nice inside. I'm sure you could make some good tips if you were looking to do the waiting gig. My wife and I spent $110 and that was with no alcoholic beverage. Hefty little tip we paid.

^ Exactly what I wanted to hear. Uber-fine dining isn't my style either (no real value to me...I'd rather buy a new DVD player or something), but the tips could be awesome. I'll let you all know if I get it so you can come support my A/V habits :cool:

I've felt generally excluded from this conversation about the local HD feeds ending up on cable providers because where I live (Ashland) I don't have access to the carriers that have been mentioned. But last night I was flipping around and accidentally found on channel 702 a digital broadcast of WOWK (CBS). CSI Miami was on in HD and it looked really good. I have favorite channels set on my box and don't frequently flip around off of the loop, but last night I checked every number from 700 up (HD content)! Does anyone have any info on Adelphia's plans to add other HD content?
I have been contemplating the move to satellite to gain a few more HD channels and an OTA tuner to try, but if I can get all of our locals through cable I might just stay.

I would have preferred going to the Outback two times for the same price I paid for a meal at the Chop House.
Dining tip: The Tidewater Grill serves the same filets as the Chop House. They, plus Gratzi are owned by the same company. So you can get a Chop House steak for the Tidewater price. Still not "cheap", but better than the Chop House.

Also, Tidewater has a deal where they feed you free on your birthday.

^ That's awesome! The more channels available through Charter's HD DVR, the better!

On a side note, have any of you dined at "The Chop House" in Charleston? I'm thinking of applying there to work some nights and weekends when I move up to supplement my income and get some restaurant experience. Is this a good restaurant? Usually busy? Opinions?
I took my wife there a couple of years ago for some special occasion. One of the more expensive places in Charleston (Laurey's (sp?) in the old train station is another high dollar place). Both are probably good places for tips since most of the customers look like "suits" on expense accounts :-)

Most of you have probably read the other areas for hd dvd software. I agree with most of the reviews that Serenity is not a "Wow" title because the director chose to introduce film grain in most of the shots.

Ok heres where I disagree on the CGI shots it is totaly amazing they didn't grain those up thats where you notice finally real HD!!!.

In either case the sound on HD DVD is definately better then regular dvd. I only noticed a slight improvement. I suspect with much better receiver and speakers the difference would be amazing.

Most of you have probably read the other areas for hd dvd software. I agree with most of the reviews that Serenity is not a "Wow" title because the director chose to introduce film grain in most of the shots.

Ok heres where I disagree on the CGI shots it is totaly amazing they didn't grain those up thats where you notice finally real HD!!!.

In either case the sound on HD DVD is definately better then regular dvd. I only noticed a slight improvement. I suspect with much better receiver and speakers the difference would be amazing.


I bet the differnece in sound quality was from the actual player and not the DVD software...unless you were using the Analog outs instead of the digital cable and using the less compressed audio option.

I did read where Serenity wasn't the best movie to compare since they did introduce grain on purpose.

Did you purchase any of the other HD DVD titles out?

^ On a side note, have any of you dined at "The Chop House" in Charleston? I'm thinking of applying there to work some nights and weekends when I move up to supplement my income and get some restaurant experience. Is this a good restaurant? Usually busy? Opinions?


The Chop House would likely be a good job and good training for working at a 5-star type restaurant. From a personal perspective, however, the food is not worth the price, even if you go on your birthday.

I bet the differnece in sound quality was from the actual player and not the DVD software...unless you were using the Analog outs instead of the digital cable and using the less compressed audio option.

I did read where Serenity wasn't the best movie to compare since they did introduce grain on purpose.

Did you purchase any of the other HD DVD titles out?

I used both analog & coax out. Dolby Digital plus converted to full bandwidth DTS on the coax and straight pass thru for the analog out. I don't think there is any DVD that uses the full bandwidth for DTS 1.5meg a second. So either way you will get better sound of the Toshiba HD DVD players.

Haven't purchased any other HD DVD titles yet. I pre-ordered Batman Begins (it was supposed to be a launch date title) but that was delayed to end of next month I think. Just rental until the titles I really like start to come out which seems to be end of next month.

Paul,

Do you know if WVAH will air the NASCAR race on the HD feed? From what I understand it will be available to FOX stations that choose to air it.

Thanks.

Which race?

I'm not a NASCAR fan at all so I haven't the slightest idea but I will find out.

Now, have you been seeing NASCAR on Fox 11 that ISN'T broadcast in HD? If that's the case, I have to do a bit of checking...

Today's race which was supposed to be broadcast on FOX/FOXHD was rained out. It is going to be run tomorrow at noon airing on FX. It is also available to any FOX station that wants to carry it.

Now I understand some stations don't want to interupt Judge Judy or similar to show a NASCAR race. But there seems to be little reason why anyone would need to watch Judge Judy on the digital side, therefore leaving it open to show the race in HD.

So it would be something like CBS did for The Masters. The analog side carried regular programming, but the digital side had The Masters in HD. Don't know if that would work with the splicer or not.

Thanks.

BTW, how is the new sub doing?

Today's race which was supposed to be broadcast on FOX/FOXHD was rained out. It is going to be run tomorrow at noon airing on FX. It is also available to any FOX station that wants to carry it.

Now I understand some stations don't want to interupt Judge Judy or similar to show a NASCAR race. But there seems to be little reason why anyone would need to watch Judge Judy on the digital side, therefore leaving it open to show the race in HD.

So it would be something like CBS did for The Masters. The analog side carried regular programming, but the digital side had The Masters in HD. Don't know if that would work with the splicer or not.

Thanks.

BTW, how is the new sub doing?

Speaking of Judge Judy...... About two/three weeks ago, there were two guys from Sissonville on Judge Judy. One of the guys' grandmother's is my neighbor. We recorded it on TIVO to show everyone that comes to our house for a little bit of humor.

Thank you WVAH! :D

NASCAR race is on and in HD.

I am home today with a case of the checkered flag flu. :p

Okay, let me show my lack of knowledge in the realm of HDTV. In an effort to see the Super Bowl (go Steelers!!) in HD back in February, I hurridly ran down to the local Radio Shack and picked up a UHF antenna and got it dialed into WCHS, OTA. Since the Super Bowl, I haven't done anything else with it. The way it is now, and the way it was back in Feb, reception on WCHS is shaky, at best. WVAH is a little better, but still drops out from time to time. Channel 29.1 - 29.4 seems to be rock solid. I've been reading the forums and I see people in different counties picking up all 4 stations, and I find that odd considering I'm only about 5 miles north of Charleston. To be honest, I'm not even really sure what kind of antenna I have - just some generic UHF/VHF/FM deal. I'm wondering if I have the right set up? Should I need an amp? And given that, from what I understand, WCHS/WVAH and WSAZ/WOWK are on different towers, do you need to have two different antennas to pick up all 4 at once? Or will 1 offer a wide enough range to get them all? Or do you need to crawl up on the roof to reposition the antenna to change channels? My signal is very touch-and-go. I will go from 80% for a couple of refreshes, and then drop completely to nothing, then right back to 70%-80%. Any ideas as to what might cause such extreme signals? I'd appreciate any help anyone can give. I'm really wanting to get into HD now, and OTA is the only way I can see. Cebridge offers jack in the way of HD. Thanks!!

Okay, let me show my lack of knowledge in the realm of HDTV. In an effort to see the Super Bowl (go Steelers!!) in HD back in February, I hurridly ran down to the local Radio Shack and picked up a UHF antenna and got it dialed into WCHS, OTA. Since the Super Bowl, I haven't done anything else with it. The way it is now, and the way it was back in Feb, reception on WCHS is shaky, at best. WVAH is a little better, but still drops out from time to time. Channel 29.1 - 29.4 seems to be rock solid. I've been reading the forums and I see people in different counties picking up all 4 stations, and I find that odd considering I'm only about 5 miles north of Charleston. To be honest, I'm not even really sure what kind of antenna I have - just some generic UHF/VHF/FM deal. I'm wondering if I have the right set up? Should I need an amp? And given that, from what I understand, WCHS/WVAH and WSAZ/WOWK are on different towers, do you need to have two different antennas to pick up all 4 at once? Or will 1 offer a wide enough range to get them all? Or do you need to crawl up on the roof to reposition the antenna to change channels? My signal is very touch-and-go. I will go from 80% for a couple of refreshes, and then drop completely to nothing, then right back to 70%-80%. Any ideas as to what might cause such extreme signals? I'd appreciate any help anyone can give. I'm really wanting to get into HD now, and OTA is the only way I can see. Cebridge offers jack in the way of HD. Thanks!!

I'm in Dunbar and can get all 4 locals with a ChannelMaster antenna I bought from Lowe's along with a pre-amp I got from Radio Shack. The pre-amp stabilized 3, 8 and 11 and alowed me to finally get 13 just in time for the NCAA's. Although the DISH HD is very good, the OTA HD is even better.

Today's race which was supposed to be broadcast on FOX/FOXHD was rained out. It is going to be run tomorrow at noon airing on FX. It is also available to any FOX station that wants to carry it.

Now I understand some stations don't want to interupt Judge Judy or similar to show a NASCAR race. But there seems to be little reason why anyone would need to watch Judge Judy on the digital side, therefore leaving it open to show the race in HD.

So it would be something like CBS did for The Masters. The analog side carried regular programming, but the digital side had The Masters in HD. Don't know if that would work with the splicer or not.

Thanks.

BTW, how is the new sub doing?
The flagship FOX station in NY did NOT show the race. Amazing.

So I have 5 hours of various "judge" shows Tivoed if any is interested (what a waste of disk I/O) . So I was stuck with F/X sd.

The flagship FOX station in NY did NOT show the race. Amazing.

So I was stuck with F/X sd.
I can't believe that FOX NY didn't carry the race either. :confused:

Do you not have OTA? It looked great on 11-1. :p ;)

We are getting closer!!!!! Maybe in time for football?

<< Back
DIRECTV Continues to Expand Local HD Programming; Names 14 New HD Markets; Local HD to be Available to Customers in 50 Markets, Representing More Than 65 Percent of U.S. Television Homes
EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 2, 2006--Continuing its drive to lead the industry in the delivery of HDTV to consumers, DIRECTV named 14 more markets where it will offer local HD programming later this year. When the markets are added, DIRECTV will offer local HD programming in 50 major metropolitan areas, representing more than 65 percent of U.S. TV households. The rollout is scheduled to begin in the third quarter.

Local news, sports and popular primetime programming from ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC will be available in HD to customers who subscribe to any TOTAL CHOICE(R) programming package that offers local channels. There is no additional charge for local HD programming.

The 14 local markets to receive HD programming from DIRECTV include:

-- Cincinnati -- Madison, Wis.
-- Austin, Texas -- Memphis, Tenn.
-- Albuquerque, N.M. -- Portland, Maine
-- Grand Rapids, Mich. -- Portland, Ore.
-- Green Bay, Wis. -- Providence, R.I.
-- Greensboro, N.C. -- Reno, Nev.
-- Las Vegas -- San Antonio

"With the rollout of each new HD market, DIRECTV continues to affirm its commitment to hold the competitive high ground in HD programming," said Dan Fawcett, executive vice president, DIRECTV, Inc. "Our local HD expansion will continue through next year when we expect to offer access to the crystal-clear picture and sound of local HD programming to nearly every household in the nation."

DIRECTV currently offers standard-definition local channels in 142 markets, covering nearly 94 percent of television households in the country, as well as 20 HD local channel markets including: Atlanta, Birmingham, Boston, Chicago, Columbus, Dallas-Fort Worth, Detroit, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Nashville, New York, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco, Tampa and Washington, D.C. By June of this year, DIRECTV will have activated local HD programming in 16 more previously announced markets for a total of 36 markets, representing 58 percent of U.S. TV households.

With the launch of two new satellites - DIRECTV 10 and DIRECTV 11 - in 2007, DIRECTV will have the ability to deliver more than 1,500 local HD and digital channels and 150 national HD channels, in addition to new advanced programming services for customers.

Customers can receive local HD channels by purchasing the new H20 HD receiver and a satellite dish that has the ability to receive programming from five different orbital locations. DIRECTV is offering new customers who purchase a DIRECTV HD receiver a $100 mail-in rebate. (Limit one rebate per customer.) Receiving equipment is available at major consumer electronics retailers like Best Buy and Circuit City, and through DIRECTV. Existing customers are eligible for a $99 upgrade to the new H20 receiver and dish, plus $99 for each additional HD receiver.

About DIRECTV, Inc.

DIRECTV, Inc. is the nation's leading digital television service provider with more than 15 million customers. DIRECTV and the Cyclone Design logo are registered trademarks of DIRECTV, Inc. DIRECTV (NYSE:DTV) is a world-leading provider of digital multichannel television entertainment services. DIRECTV is approximately 37 percent owned by News Corporation.


CONTACT: DIRECTV, Inc.
Jade Ekstedt, 310-964-3429
jlekstedt@directv.com

SOURCE: DIRECTV, Inc

This is actually terrible news to those of with the HD-Tivo as DirecTV has no MPEG4 HD DVR in sight. As the main HDTV programming forum shows they are getting ready to or already starting to turn off the distant HD networks. If they don't have the new DVR ready we would be forced to get network programming with a DVR from some alternate provider...

A d***CSR said the new MPEG 4 DVR will be out late 2006/ early 2007.

Normally I wouldn't believe what a D* csr says but that actually matches the information from their quarterly conference call.

My signal from WSAZ has been terrible for about a month now. I don't know if it is the station, or a few large trees near my house that have filled up with leaves. I still get the 8, 11, and 13 real well. 13 only about 66% though.

Any one else having a problem with WSAZ?

My signal level has gone less with with WSAZ-DT, WOWK-DT, WCHS-DT. Strangely WVAH-DT signal level has gotten better. I usualy receive them all on the coldest days but even with that WOWK-DT usualy is too weak to be reliable but they dont have 5.1 sound so I stick with whatever directv sends for CBS. I only receive reliable signal for WVAH-DT all year round WSAZ-DT I would say maybe 90% of the time its useable.

Outside of WVAH-DT getting better this is normal for me. As temperature goes up my signal level usualy goes down. And of course the obvious factor of the trees leaves coming back to block signals.

I don't understand the techincal reasons for the temperature changing signal levels (maybe there is someone techincal here who could explain the whys) but this is just how it seems to be for better or worse.

That said with all these mountains around I guess i am lucky to be able receive any thing at all without spening a couple thousand on a semi professional tower.

Yeah I went up to my house (Knollwood subdivision, 25302) this weekend to paint some rooms, move in some furniture, etc., and I setup most of my HT system.

Got a very sweet black/glass stand to hold my H/K AVR230 & Athena center channel, and the two Athena front towers look great beside it. The Sony 50A10 looks gorgeous as well...so I was all hoping that the amplified Phillips indoor antenna I bought would at least get something, ANYTHING....nothing. It wouldn't even pick up ANY locals in SD. It said it "found 8" channels, but all were 98% snow. Argh...I'm too lazy to hook up a big antenna rig, I'll just get Charter HD and deal w/ no ABC/FOX in HD for now.

My signal level has gone less with with WSAZ-DT, WOWK-DT, WCHS-DT. Strangely WVAH-DT signal level has gotten better. I usualy receive them all on the coldest days but even with that WOWK-DT usualy is too weak to be reliable but they dont have 5.1 sound so I stick with whatever directv sends for CBS. I only receive reliable signal for WVAH-DT all year round WSAZ-DT I would say maybe 90% of the time its useable.

Outside of WVAH-DT getting better this is normal for me. As temperature goes up my signal level usualy goes down. And of course the obvious factor of the trees leaves coming back to block signals.

I don't understand the techincal reasons for the temperature changing signal levels (maybe there is someone techincal here who could explain the whys) but this is just how it seems to be for better or worse.

That said with all these mountains around I guess i am lucky to be able receive any thing at all without spening a couple thousand on a semi professional tower.

Changes in temperatures cause a temperature gradient that could possibly extend the signals much further than normal, but that usually happens at sunset and sunrise. For overall temperature changes (cold in winter, hot in the summer), there shouldn't be that much of a difference. So, I'm not sure why you are getting much better singals when it's cold. Is it possible that it's all the leaves that fill the trees during the warmer weather?

Wanted all of you to know that an equipment failure in the DirecTV rack at WVAH caused the D* Locals problems on Sunday. We also found that for whatever reason, it also apparently killed the E* Locals as well...who woulda thunk it?

Dallas, the sub ROCKS! I don't know about all of you but I can't believe that people don't seem to like the DVD-A/SACD formats much.

I also just checked my signal strength meter and my signal seems to be remaining strong even with the nice little green things on the trees!:)

I don't know about all of you but I can't believe that people don't seem to like the DVD-A/SACD formats much.
I was in Indy for the Colts/Steelers playoff game and took my wife by the Magnolia Hi-Fi store in Best Buy. I was looking at the Vienna's and after he demoed a couple of movie scenes he put in a 5-channel mix of 7 Bridges Road. In the middle of the room, it sound very full and rich, but if you went to each speaker, it only had one voice. Each person was singing from a different speaker.

I am not a big music aficionado, but this was really cool.

I heard E*'s locals were out as well, but isn't their LRF in Huntington?

I heard E*'s locals were out as well, but isn't their LRF in Huntington?

Well...we thought so too but evidently there has been some sort of deal between D* & E* and it turns out that they are sharing the locals. We didn't really know that believe it or not.

I have the Eagles DTS CD and that was one of the coolest things I ever heard. I really LOVE multi-channel music that is done correctly. While I've only been DVD-A/SACD capable for a short time, I've been doing a lot of research on this and the few examples I have are really well done...at least to my ears.

You know now that things are settling down here in this thread we should try to setup someplace so that we can all display pictures of our theaters to share with everyone.
Perhaps pick a free picture site and everyone start an account there and post the links in this thread?

www.satelliteguys.us gives 10Meg free space for pictures of HT stuff.

Well I'm still struggling with my OTA reception of HD locals and I'm looking here for a little help again. I appreciate the response earlier this month, kmartin. Let me give another quick overview, and if anyone with HDTV experience would like to offer some advice, I'd be more than grateful! I have a Toshiba 56HM195 TV and a CM4228 UHF antenna. Last night, I strung a long cable (about 75' of RG6) from the TV to my antenna - mounted on a 10' mast. It used to be mounted to the chimney, but for testing purposes I just carried it around in the yard. I drove the mast into the ground, just deep enough to stay upright, and tuned the TV to channel 19 (11-1). I was able to get a rock-solid signal of 84% on 19, but could get absolutely nothing on 23, 41, and 47. I've heard people suggest an amp to solidify a signal, but does anyone have an explanation as to why I could get such a good signal with WVAH, and absolutely nothing with the other networks? Especially given the fact that I've been told that WCHS and WVAH broadcast from the same tower...? Seems a little fishy to me. By the way, I live outside of Big Chimney, about 7 miles northeast of Charleston. I'm in a bit of a valley, but given such a strong signal on one station makes me think my geographical layout may not be the issue. According to antennaweb, I was able to pinpoint my location on the map, and it gave a bearing of 272 and 285 degrees for the two broadcast towers, but my best signal was more in the direction of 230 degrees. Multipathing maybe? The other confusing thing is that back in February, I was able to watch the Superbowl in OTA HD - although it was dropping out sparadically. Now I can get nothing at all. Something with the leaves on the trees? As before, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Bruno25312, I live at Credemont Subdivision, which is located up on the hill off 119, and I too have the 4228 UHF antenna, but I do have an indoor amp. I am currently able to get 8, 11, and 13. Channel 3 is too weak, and I really believe that it is because of a large tree in my back yard that is located in the direction of the broadcast antenna. I was able to receive Channel 3 at around 70% before the leaves came out, but it is now below 50%. Now....., It could be that you are in the valley, obstructed by hills and trees. I found that when I raised my antenna just 5 feet, that it made a difference up here where I live, but again, I am on this hill. When you tune the channel, how much of a signal does your tuner/tv say that you are receiving on those channels? An outdoor amplifier may help, but most likely, only if you are receiving a relatively decent signal already.

Hopefully someone else will have more input on this issue.

Now everyone, I have a decision to make on whether to stay with Charter, or go to Direct TV.

I am not completly satisfied with Charter, and I do not believe that once they are sold to Cebridge, that my service will be significantly better. In fact, it will probably be the same. My concern is that I will still be receiving analog channels up to channel 100 and that there will probably not be that many more HD channels added in the future.

I understand that Direct TV is 100% digital, and that they will probably be addings significantly more HD channels in the future. Is this correct?

I have this real nice HD TV, but get inferior signals and programming with Charter, and it would appear as though that is not going to improve. Of course, I know the ultimate decision is mine, but can anyone give their opinions, and share their knowledge about this.

Thanks so much for the response, Amerikes. Given that you're from Crede, I'm sure you're familiar with Coopers Creek - which is where I live. The TV says that I'm getting 80-85 percent on channel 19 (WVHA), but can get absolutely nothing on 41 (WCHS), which I'm told is on the same tower. That's what confuses the heck outta me. Good luck with the DirecTV. Let me know how that goes. I just about bought a HR10-250 (HiDef Tivo) a few months back, but I think I may wait until they start beaming the locals in HiDef first. Thanks again for the response! - jeff

The TV says that I'm getting 80-85 percent on channel 19 (WVHA), but can get absolutely nothing on 41 (WCHS), which I'm told is on the same tower. That's what confuses the heck outta me.
The reason you get 19 and not 41 is because of physics. The lower the UHF frequency (channel #), the further it will carry at a given power. So if both are at the same power, channel 19 will carry much further than channel 41 will.

Now the kicker. Channel 19 is on the top of the tower and channel 41 is a couple hundred feet lower. Paul could probably give the exact heights and its somewhere in this thread. So there is a double whammy impeding your ability to get channel 41.

Do you get channel 47 (WOWK)?

Thanks for the info, herdfan. No, I've never gotten WOWK nor WCHS at any time. Not even so much as a blip. But I did get a decent signal from WCHS last winter, so it's making me think that it's something with the tree/leaves.

WSAZ-DT is now on Charter 781 :)

WSAZ-DT is now on Charter 781 :)

Glad to see Charter finally get WSAZ Tarheel32, but I made the move to DirectTV yesterday, and my first impressions are very positive. I am unable to get WSAZ on my OTA antenna, but can get the other three that I want, that is, 8, 11, and 13. I have this 30 day trial on DirectTV, and will see how this goes, but most likely will accept the 1 or 2 year term with them. Not sure which it is???

I spoke with a Charter Customer Service Rep and she mentioned that WSAZ-DT will be on CH781 by Monday, if not already. (I don't have it yet, in the Charleston market.)

FYI: She also mentioned that the purchase of Charter has a new wrinkle. It has been purchased by Cebridge, but Cebridge changed their name to Sudden Link or something to that nature. And from what the meeting experience was like, she feels very positive about the transition and that the cable service will most likely increase in quality over the next few months. Including the HDTV package. :)

Finally! WSAZ-DT is back on Charter! This now gives us nine HD channels and in some ways is a better variety than satellite. I have been a Charter HD subscriber since they only had two HD channels ( Discovery and HBO) and feel they have given me excellent service. Sure I want more channels and in time they will be here. Hopefully the sale to Cebridge will allow this to happen sooner rather than later.

Awesome to hear Charter got another HD channel!!

I'm moving up on June 24th and am getting their HD DVR service + high-speed internet installed then as well.

Thanks so much for the response, Amerikes. Given that you're from Crede, I'm sure you're familiar with Coopers Creek - which is where I live. The TV says that I'm getting 80-85 percent on channel 19 (WVHA), but can get absolutely nothing on 41 (WCHS), which I'm told is on the same tower. That's what confuses the heck outta me. Good luck with the DirecTV. Let me know how that goes. I just about bought a HR10-250 (HiDef Tivo) a few months back, but I think I may wait until they start beaming the locals in HiDef first. Thanks again for the response! - jeff

I have always gotten WVAH with no dropouts even before I added the amplifier. WCHS was usually good but nowhere near as strong as WVAH.

You might try an amp and if it doesn't work you can always take it back. I couldn't get CBS at all until I installed the amp.

I just flipped on my TV and because our electricity went off, my DirecTV receiver had me run the Initial Setup again.

This time, it added 27-5 and 27-6. Both are the same as 11-1 (WVAH) and in HD.

What's going on here? WVAH testing something so they can run multiple channels? I hope not.

This time, it added 27-5 and 27-6. Both are the same as 11-1 (WVAH) and in HD.
What channel are they on? Or are they just a remap of 19?

Any one here have Dish Network? I checked this evening, and if I am seeing it right, they are offering all the Local HD Channels in Charleston by their satellite.

Is this correct?

They seem to have more of the programming that I want, than Direct TV. My viewing is more family oriented, and I like college football(And they have ESPNHD, ESPN2HD, CSTV, and ESPNU). I don't need any of the NFL packages, nor do I need any of the HBO, Starz, Encore, etc.

I still have 20 days on the DirectTV Trial.

Sweet, I'm moving to Charleston in August (wife will be attending the University of Charleston), so I'm happy to discover there is some HD service there. I'm originally from eastern Kentucky, where we have no HD service at all...

A quick, off the wall question: Know of any nice apartments or areas around Charleston to rent at? I drove around town today and found some newly built apartments out on 119 (near the Marque cinema) and some more interesting apartments out at Cross Lanes... Any suggestions, recommendations, or places to avoid? Thanks!

Any one here have Dish Network? I checked this evening, and if I am seeing it right, they are offering all the Local HD Channels in Charleston by their satellite.

Is this correct?
I don't think so. I just checked and it only showed SD local channels. Do you have a link?

I don't think so. I just checked and it only showed SD local channels. Do you have a link?

I think I read it at Dish Network's site, but reading in another forum, someone made the comment, that Dish Network was not actually broadcasting in HD, but in standard def. only at this time, but they listed it as ready for HD or something. I will try to find the link at Dish Network.

Yeah, I didn't read it close enough, it says only those listed with HD beside the name of the station. We have none.

What kind of preamp is everyone using on their OTA setup. I am thinking of getting a better preamp than the one that I current have. It is the Channel Master 3042 indoor amp, and is rated at 13 db, and I am thinking that maybe a mast mounted preamp such as the Channel Master 7777 will get me channel 3. I had it this past winter, but have since lost it when the leaves came out on the tree's. I will also be raising the mast from 2 to 4 feet also...........

I currently have the Channel Master 4228 UHF antenna. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.

Amerikes: it fooled me too! Turns out DISH doesn't offer locals over HD although their site is quite tricky and makes you think they do. DirecTV is supposed to start broadcasting locals over HD within a year or so, but who knows. Also, are you getting OTA HD w/ an indoor antenna that's actually indoors? I may look into a mast-mounted (large) antenna eventually, but I don't want to exert the expense if I can find an indoor one to do the job. I'm in 25302, and couldn't get ANYTHING (not even in SD) w/ a small Philips indoor antenna I got, and later returned, from Wal-Mart.

I'm moving to Charleston in just under a month and am going w/ Charter's HD-DVR + high-speed internet. I don't want a land-line phone anyway, so it made sense to go 100% cable services.

hybridamp, congrats on the move, that's a nice university! Driving around during my "moving trips", the places I've seen on US-119 were pretty nice (the ones closer to South Charleston). I personally purchased a home in the Knollwood subdivision since I'll be here awhile (starting a career) and it's a better long-term investment for me. We should have some Charleston meets like for the SuperBowl and NCAAs and such.

Amerikes: it fooled me too! Turns out DISH doesn't offer locals over HD although their site is quite tricky and makes you think they do. DirecTV is supposed to start broadcasting locals over HD within a year or so, but who knows. Also, are you getting OTA HD w/ an indoor antenna that's actually indoors? I may look into a mast-mounted (large) antenna eventually, but I don't want to exert the expense if I can find an indoor one to do the job. I'm in 25302, and couldn't get ANYTHING (not even in SD) w/ a small Philips indoor antenna I got, and later returned, from Wal-Mart.

I'm moving to Charleston in just under a month and am going w/ Charter's HD-DVR + high-speed internet. I don't want a land-line phone anyway, so it made sense to go 100% cable services.



No, I am using an outdoor antenna, the expense isn't too great if you know what you are going to need without having to make the mistakes of trial and error, like I have done. I am using a Channel Master 4228 UHF antenna($60), and I have a Channel master 3042 indoor preamp($25). I have a mast going up the side of my deck near the wall of my home. I used RG6 cable, and bought two hd receiver's .($100 to $200) from online for each of my two HD TV's.

But........, mostly also, you need a fairly clear line of sight towards the broadcast towers, with no trees, buildings, hills, etc. blocking your tower direction. All of this should be considered before you start pouring money into this project. So in saying that, you need to get the Antenna at least above your own roof line(It could be mounted on your roof).

In recently going over to DirectTV(Don't know if this was a good move or not.. :D ), they offered their HD LG600 receiver, which has its own OTA receiver input, this rendering the HD receivers that I had purchased earlier useless. However, I am still having trouble getting Channels 3 and 13, which are around 37 miles from my home, as compared to Channels 8 and 11 which are only around 18 miles away. So, I am currently in the process of ordering an outdoor amp(29 db gain) which has higher gain than the Channel Master 3042's(13 db gain) that I previous purchased for each of my two TV hookups.

If you may be interested, in putting up an outdoor antenna, I may be able to help you out with an indoor amp, and HD receiver for a very good price. Of course, since we live so close, and are in these forums, I would let you try the receiver and amp out before you made the purchase. That would be a hard deal to beat. Private message me for more details..... It is not like I am pushing to sell this stuff, but if you have a need and want to try it, that would be fine.

John

What channel are they on? Or are they just a remap of 19?

Just a remap, but wonder what the purpose is?

SouthPaW1227: I thought about buying also, probably will once I get established there and find a decent job. I hate to leave the one I have now... :( And yes, I'm always up for some wings and HDTV. :)

^ Good deal :)

Amerikes: My TV has a built-in ATSC tuner (Sony 50A10), so I'm good on the HD-tuner bit. My only need is a mast, antenna, and wiring. I may contact in a month or so if I have the funds/time/desire to set something up :)

^ Good deal :)

Amerikes: My TV has a built-in ATSC tuner (Sony 50A10), so I'm good on the HD-tuner bit. My only need is a mast, antenna, and wiring. I may contact in a month or so if I have the funds/time/desire to set something up :)

Sure thing, if I can help......include me in. :)

Hey, include some of the rest of us home theater nuts on that wings deal.
We use to have a club meeting once in a while for the West Virginia Home Theater Group at a local resturant.

Speaking of wings, has anyone been to the new Quaker Steak and Lube. They have great wings and plenty of TV's. No HD though.

Haven't been to QS&L yet...we should definitely organize some sort of meet in the coming months, though.

Speaking of wings, has anyone been to the new Quaker Steak and Lube. They have great wings and plenty of TV's. No HD though.


Yes, and I even had the ATOMIC wings. The ones you have to sign a waiver for. It's about like rinsing your mouth out with LAVA.

I haven't been on as much in the last couple months, so forgive me if this has been discussed. Has WCHS increased their Transmitting Power? In the past, I had to turn my indoor antenna just the right way to get it. Actually, I haven't picked it up since Superbowl until the other day when I had time to flip on the HD TV. Antenna still pointing in the same direction to pick up WVAH at it's strongest point. I now get WVAH AND WCHS at the same power level (High 80s, Low 90s). I also get WSAZ in the low 70s by pointing in the same direction. Only channel I can't get is WOWK.

Yes, and I even had the ATOMIC wings. The ones you have to sign a waiver for.
I love the sign in the mens bathroom warning you to wash your hands before using the bathroom if you have had the atomic wings.

I love the sign in the mens bathroom warning you to wash your hands before using the bathroom if you have had the atomic wings.


LOL...I've never noticed that one. They have all you can eat wings for $9.99 on Tuesday evenings. Maybe a good place for another meet sometime.

They have all you can eat wings for $9.99 on Tuesday evenings.
I keep missing that. Do you know if they have most of their wing flavors available? There are a few I would like to try, but don't want to even get a small order until I have had a chance to taste them.

A tad off-topic:

The $75/month Alltel National Family Share Plan that includes 2 lines, 1000 minutes, 7pm nights & weekends and "My Circle" seems like an excellent deal for a cell phone plan.

Do any of you use Alltel, and if so, are you happy w/ the reception? My only gripe is it appears there's a 2-3 hour stretch of road that I'd be roaming on and couldn't call on while driving back to Raleigh, whenever that should occur. I want to be in a roaming zome (the one you actually pay for, not just out of the local zone) as little as possible.

The $75/month Alltel National Family Share Plan ......... I want to be in a roaming zome (the one you actually pay for, not just out of the local zone) as little as possible.
If it is a National plan, why is there any roaming? Or are they referring to that you can call anywhere in the nation?

My parents were on ALLTEL for a while (now Cingular) and their service seemed fine. I don't remember them having many dropped calls or areas where they could not get signal.

Well their "National" Plan is like 95% no-roaming in the US, but there's still tiny patches that you'd borrow off another provider's tower and it'd charge you...you can see their coverage map on their site.

They offer a "Total Coverage Plan" that is not listed on the site; you have to actually call to get it, but it's more expensive of course.

Otherwise, the only TRUE way to get nationwide no-roaming is to go Cingular. However, even w/ a 15% discount (because I'm connected to a university) the 700 minutes per month Cingular plan when paying the extra $14/month for shareable 7pm nights and weekends, that comes to $74.99/month. And they don't have "My Circle". Having 10 numbers I could call for free would be HUGE for me.

I would go either route, I just assumed Alltel would have better signal since they still function off CDMA somewhat, whereas Cingular is 100% GSM.

The biggest perk of Cingular, for me, is that my pal works at Sony Ericsson and I could get the latest and greatest phones all the time for free :D

I had a company provided Cingular GSM phone up until November of this year and I thought it had very poor coverage. It was fine as long as you were on an interstate but get a few miles away and you probably won't have a signal.

IMHO Alltel has the best coverage in the state. Especially away from major highways. Others may disagree...

I bet your roaming area includes Beckley to Princeton doesn't it?

^ Yep, pretty soon after Charlotte, NC heading into WV, it's all roaming (the kind I'd pay extra for, not the sharing of a partner's tower) until like 30 miles outside of Charleston it appears.

I just hate the idea that I can't drive half an hour eastward from my house without switching to roaming.

I've had USCC here in Raleigh and have a plan where there's no roamin from Florida to PA, and westward to like Ohio. I'm spoiled :(

Whats up with tnt-hd on charter? I only get a black screen.... SD tnt works fine on ch 25 thou :-(

To those waiting on Cebridge/Sudden Link cable to have better service in the future, I have found this very interesting article in the USA Today news paper, and it coincides with what several have posted in this thread before. The really bad thing is that the article is talking about 750 Mhz bandwidth, and one article from Cebridge stated that company bought the 500 Mhz systems to help them keep the cost down.

Also, it looks like the service to have in the future, would be Fiber optics through your telephone, but it sounds like cable is far behind.

http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/technology/2006-06-04-cable-hdtv_x.htm

To those waiting on Cebridge/Sudden Link cable to have better service in the future, I have found this very interesting article in the USA Today news paper, and it coincides with what several have posted in this thread before. The really bad thing is that the article is talking about 750 Mhz bandwidth, and one article from Cebridge stated that company bought the 500 Mhz systems to help them keep the cost down.

Also, it looks like the service to have in the future, would be Fiber optics through your telephone, but it sounds like cable is far behind.

http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/technology/2006-06-04-cable-hdtv_x.htm

What article about Cebridge said they only bought 500Mhz systems? Surely with the upgrade that Charter did a couple of years ago (which took forever) they would have future-proofed it at least a little.

All digital is a double edged sword. You can either have all digital, or service on every TV without a box. Which one is more important to most consumers?
Something cool I read about a while back, they called digital simulcasting. Basically where they broadcast every analog channel on a seperate digital channel. So if you had a box, you'd get a nice digital feed, but other TV's would still be able to receive service without one. It would still hog a lot of space, but they could slowly ween everyone off of analog. I think they were trying to make this as a first step to all digital, which would free up room for more HD channels. I'd love to see Cebridge do this, but who knows. Here's hoping so. Everything on my DVR from an analog channel looks terrible.
As far as the cable cards, they're crap. I had one in my TV for a while but I took it back. Minimal guide (built into my TV), no PPV & no on-demand! HD on-demand now THAT would be cool. But a cable card in a secondary TV like in a kitchen or bedroom wouldn't be too bad, but not for a primary TV.
I will definitely check out 2-way cards when they're out, but my TV probably won't support it.

This was from an earlier post that I had in this forum, I will try to find the link of the following quote:

Of course, rolling out digital cable requires extra bandwidth, which is why small system operators such as Cequel III have been boosting bandwidth through plant upgrades. However, in contrast to larger MSOs, Cequel III has opted to expand to 550 MHz, rather than 750 MHz or higher. The reason? “You have to understand the average household income in the markets where we provide service,” Cordova explains. “This requires that we manage the content that we load onto the system, and avoid simply adding costs to the customer without knowing if it is content the customer is looking for.”

Knowing that price is an issue to its customers, Cequel III decided that a 550 MHz upgrade made the best sense. This bandwidth is sufficient for each system to carry 50 to 55 analog channels, 12 to 17 channels of digital cable, two channels dedicated to data, with a couple of channels held back for high-definition TV (HDTV). By upgrading to 550 MHz, Cequel III has been able to buy good-quality, used equipment from larger MSOs moving to 750/860 MHz. Add the fact that offering fewer channels keeps programming costs down, and Cequel III has found a cost-effective way to upgrade while keeping its price sensitivity advantage.

Here is the link to the post, I hope all this is erroneous info, but taking this kind of info, plus that seen at the USA today article, it doesn't sound to good for cable in the near future, especially if Cebridge/Sudden Link doesn't do some major upgrading. If they all(Cable, Satellite, Fios) stay close, in their competiveness, then that should help the consumer, and I am all for that.

http://www.ct-magazine.com/archives/ct/0903/0903_smallops.html

Cool, but I don't think that applies to us. From my interpretation of that article (which might not be correct) it sounds like that's what they'll be doing with their existing systems that don't already have digital service. We've already got it. If you look at the system specs that are listed, we've already got more than 50-55 analog channels right now and way more than 12-17 digital channels. My guess is that Charter upgraded to the 750/860 MHz systems when they did that upgrade a few years back. And they maybe even sold their old equipment to Cequel III.
I do agree that if cable doesn't make some HD advancements, and just watches everyone else do it, they will get left behind.
That article does talk about telephone service, which will probably be cable's next big push.

I just talked to an Engineer that works with DSL and the possibility of Fiber to the Prem. He said there is supposed to be an announcement from the VP over 'something' regarding FTTP (FIOS) in WV. However, they don't know any details. Could be good news, or the continued bad news. The Tech may have heard this rumor. I'll check back in after I learn what the VP says. If it would happen, I would see it happening in large developments. Remember, FIOS is not in many areas yet. It's growing, but not everywhere. Doesn't make sense for Charleston, WV to get it before places in NY, MD, MA, etc.

Tony, did you ever hear any more about this?

Tony, did you ever hear any more about this?


The meeting had nothing to do with FIOS from what I was told. It was about the restructuring that has been occurring here. I spoke to a local Engineer two weeks ago and there is nothing. They are pushing to get it around Martinsburg, but even that is not close yet.

The meeting had nothing to do with FIOS from what I was told. It was about the restructuring that has been occurring here. I spoke to a local Engineer two weeks ago and there is nothing. They are pushing to get it around Martinsburg, but even that is not close yet.

Thanks, I believe that this may be a real break through in TV, especially HD, but Charleston being such a small market, may be awhile.

I keep missing that. Do you know if they have most of their wing flavors available? There are a few I would like to try, but don't want to even get a small order until I have had a chance to taste them.


They have all flavors available. You start off with your first order and I think they bring you 10 of those. Before you are even finished, they ask you what your next batch of 5 will be. For example, you taste Cajun, and do not like it, they will take it away and bring you 5 more of another flavor. You don't have to eat all of the 5 to get 5 more of another flavor.

The only thing you can't do is Mix flavors during the Tuesday night All you can eat. My personal Favorite is to have them take the Louisiana Lickers and mix them with the Suicide Sauce (one below Atomic). Great flavor and a bit of a bite.

It starts at 5 and I would suggest to get there close to 5. It starts getting packed around 6 and your orders get VERY slow. They were bringing us wings left and right from about 5 to 6, then it slowed down. I went an hour just sitting there with no waitress and no wings. BUT, that may have been on purpose. I had already eaten 45 wings.

My problem with this place is their wings aren't hot. They need a flavor between Suicide and Atomic. I don't find Suicide very hot at all, but the Atomics are just crazy hot which I'll never try again. I still prefer BW3 (or Buffalo Wild Wings...whatever their name is now), but I'll stick with QS&L rather than drive to Huntington or Parkersburg.

Thanks, I believe that this may be a real break through in TV, especially HD, but Charleston being such a small market, may be awhile.


There are some other things I can tell you, but would prefer to do it offline. Maybe we can have a group meet at QS&L one evening. Darrin and I

Thanks, I believe that this may be a real break through in TV, especially HD, but Charleston being such a small market, may be awhile.


There are some other things I can tell you, but would prefer to do it offline. Maybe we can have a group meet at QS&L one evening.

Thanks, I believe that this may be a real break through in TV, especially HD, but Charleston being such a small market, may be awhile.


There are some other things I can tell you, but would prefer to do it offline. Maybe we can have a group meet at QS&L one evening. Darrin and I tried to set something up about 6 months ago, but the only people that responded was us and Dallas (herdfan). Before you joined I believe.

Ha,..........what happened it posted 3 times...... :D

Hey...guess what? May is OVER!!!!! YIPPEEEEEE! I can have a second to think now!

When are we going to get together? I'm in...just let me know!

Anybody still getting the weird extra DT channels for Fox 11? Mine were there and they just now remapped to 11-1 (That being said, I haven't turned on the TV since the last episode of Lost).

I'm ready for a meeting....somebody make the plans!

I'm definitely down so long as it's June 24th or later (when I'll be moving up).

Toss out some ideas for meeting spots...we could grab some eats while watching some sports or something. I'd enjoy playing some Xbox 360 w/ a group at someone's place if anyone has one. I'm personally waiting for the Nintendo Wii.

Ha,..........what happened it posted 3 times...... :D


I don't know. I know I submitted it only once. Hmmmmm. Must have been something I said..LOL.

Anybody still getting the weird extra DT channels for Fox 11? Mine were there and they just now remapped to 11-1 (That being said, I haven't turned on the TV since the last episode of Lost).

I tried it out a few days ago and they were mapped back to 11-1 even when I selected the other channels, then 10 seconds later, they were gone from my guide.

I checked out some info on FIOS.....that will be a nice system to have. I am just about fed up wiht D**. They claim they have little bandwidth left but continue to add worthless SD channels such as Sleuth....WHO CARES....Its crap if it isnt HD!

If Verizon invests some money....they may find a large group of people will come over.

I checked out some info on FIOS.....that will be a nice system to have. I am just about fed up wiht D**. They claim they have little bandwidth left but continue to add worthless SD channels such as Sleuth....WHO CARES....Its crap if it isnt HD!

If Verizon invests some money....they may find a large group of people will come over.


There is a lot to it. One thing they look at is blanket rights to Video across the state they want to invest in. The first thing they'd have to do is provide fiber to the prem. Our Customer base in this state would cost WAY too much money for this. They have been choosing areas where the investments are the least and profits are the greatest (as any business would do). The problem we have in this state is geography. Let's take Maryland for example. The biggest portion of that state is Suburban/Urban where our state is mostly rural. They have MANY more Central Offices than we have due to the number of folks they have to support. Because of this, their average distance from the CO to any given customer is MUCH less than here in WV. Because the majority of customers in this state live further from their Serving Wire Center, it would cost much more to provide Fiber to the Prem. There are a few areas in Charleston where it would make sense, but that wouldn't be enough payoff. This is Verizon's 10 year investment. This is their bread and butter right now. By WV not being on this plan, it's quite scary. There are a few VPs that are actively pushing for areas of WV to placed on the list, but if that happens, it will not be soon and it will not be in this area. However, with all the reorganizations that happens here, maybe we'll find someone friendly to WV and willing to take the plunge. Most other states have MANY choices. We don't in this state. So, if they did invest in FTTP/FIOS in this area, I think they would gain a lot of Customers because of the quality and price. I'm just not sure it would be enough to gain a ROI. Let's keep hoping though!

One additional Note. We can't pull out old Copper that causes several phone problems in this state and replace them with Fiber (VZ Network Cable), so not sure how they could justify placing all new fiber to Customer Prems in specific areas of this state when there are many, many, many people that have horrible phone service because of their 1979 Copper Cable from their respective CO.

I don't mean to be the gloom guy.....just don't want my fellow HD lovers to get their hopes up that this incredible new technology will make it's way here soon. Again, let's keep hoping, maybe something will break.

Verizon hasn't even made my CO Litepsan DSL ready yet. Hurricane has it but Scott Depot doesn't. :(

OTOH, suprisingly Adelphia ran fiber to the node during their rebuild a few years ago, so their internet service is actually quite fast and stable.

Cool

8-2 is an actual all music channel

13-2 seems to be like 13-1 but in SD

Anybody have any idea what they are planning to do with it

I don't mean to be the gloom guy.....just don't want my fellow HD lovers to get their hopes up that this incredible new technology will make it's way here soon. Again, let's keep hoping, maybe something will break.

I'll go one further and say in rural areas like parts of our DMA the RBOCs don't want our money at all. If it wasn't for the federal laws requiring phone service in rural areas we wouldn't even have that. So HDTV through FIOS let alone broadband is very far off if ever...

Is anybody else amazed by the all music video channel The Tube on WCHS 8.2? Other than 3.2 coming in September, does anyone know of any other multi-channel programming coming out?

Channel 29 (whatever the heck it is...) has 4. 29.1 - 29.4 None of which are worth much.

Other than 3.2 coming in September, does anyone know of any other multi-channel programming coming out?
Lets hope this is the last of it. :mad:

If the stations are going to waste bandwidth doing stupid !@#$ like this, why don't they give us something relevant like a doppler radar loop, or replay the most recent local news in a loop.

13.2 is just the dumbest thing I think I have ever seen. Why on earth would you simulcast the SD feed? Yeah, BC gave it to us alright. Right in the !**.

Hope everyone liked the year of HD we had cause it looks like its gone for good.

I wonder if Bell Expressvu has full bandwidth networks. I may very well look into it if this keeps up. It won't affect WVAH/WCHS as much since they are 720p, but WSAZ and WOWK are going to get trashed at 1080i.

13.2 is just the dumbest thing I think I have ever seen. Why on earth would you simulcast the SD feed? Yeah, BC gave it to us alright. Right in the !**.



I wonder if they'll use it to broadcast a second NFL game on Sunday afternoons. i.e. Show the Stealers (spelling intended) on 13.1 and the Bengals on 13.2. I think I've read about stations in other markets doing that.

I wonder if that would allow D* to black out even more games on ST :-(

Lets hope this is the last of it. :mad:

If the stations are going to waste bandwidth doing stupid !@#$ like this, why don't they give us something relevant like a doppler radar loop, or replay the most recent local news in a loop.

13.2 is just the dumbest thing I think I have ever seen. Why on earth would you simulcast the SD feed? Yeah, BC gave it to us alright. Right in the !**.

Hope everyone liked the year of HD we had cause it looks like its gone for good.

I wonder if Bell Expressvu has full bandwidth networks. I may very well look into it if this keeps up. It won't affect WVAH/WCHS as much since they are 720p, but WSAZ and WOWK are going to get trashed at 1080i.

Makes you sick doesn't it? Finally, we have some HD channels and they are going to Multicast, letting the main HD feed suffer in resolution. That makes it not so difficult to go with D* and their Local HD Lite feeds next year since OTA is going to trash the signals as well. Might as well pull it in as easy as you can (over satellite...at least for me) if neither will be full res HD.

The plus side is in a couple years, once HD DVD and Blu-ray pans out, we'll be able to rent Prime Time shows on one of these formats.

http://www.hdbeat.com/2006/06/27/fcc-says-use-it-or-loose-it/

Here's an interesting read from a site I visit daily. Maybe, just maybe this will help some people who are having OTA reception issues.

The plus side is in a couple years, once HD DVD and Blu-ray pans out,
Has anyone read the reviews of BR? It is getting trashed. It saw the BR display at both BB and CC and it looked worse than D*'s HD-Lite. The picture is very soft and doesn't pop like you expect HD to do.

Maybe when BD50 and the more advanced codecs start being used it will get better, but right now with BD25 (which they are only using 20-21 of) and MPEG-2, it can't compete with HD-DVD's PQ.

Has anyone read the reviews of BR? It is getting trashed. It saw the BR display at both BB and CC and it looked worse than D*'s HD-Lite. The picture is very soft and doesn't pop like you expect HD to do.

Maybe when BD50 and the more advanced codecs start being used it will get better, but right now with BD25 (which they are only using 20-21 of) and MPEG-2, it can't compete with HD-DVD's PQ.


I've been reading some reviews, and not as positive as I thought they would have been. BR may have just committed technology suicide. Double the price, and less picture quality won't set well with most HD fans. BR seems to be thinking the PSIII will propel them forward, but I'm not sure about that.

Hello all...
Let me start by saying that before anyone flames me for not doing my homework about this, I have tried my best. Probably more than I should. I am spending way too much time searching forums and sites trying to get information about my situation with regards to the HD local concept and what I can do. I'm just not understanding some parts of it. Any help someone could offer would be greatly appreciated.
I'm a Directv sub, HD-DVR (H10-250). I get Charleston, WV locals through D*. I don't have an OTA. I live in The Plains, OH 45780 which is 93 miles from the city of Charleston and 70 miles from Columbus, OH.
Right now, am I too far away to think about picking up either of these cities' HD locals through an OTA? How would I be able to find out?
And when D* finally goes MPEG-4 in Charleston, if I get the right equipment (right receiver, right dish, etc) will I be able to receive the Charleston HD locals, without regards to my distance from Charleston? Or will I still need an OTA?

Like I said, I appreciate any and all help someone could offer.
Thanks,
Scott

I'm a Directv sub, HD-DVR (H10-250). I get Charleston, WV locals through D*.

Like I said, I appreciate any and all help someone could offer.
Thanks,
Scott

Welcome to the forum :)

Since you currently get the Charleston WV locals from D* I don't see any reason why you wouldn't get the HD locals from Charleston WV also when they get around to it.

People in Athens & Albany have been able to receive the Charleston WV digital stations with antenna if its placed high enough. You are like 5 - 20 miles north of those areas so it might be a bit more difficult though. Maybe you are just north enough to get the Columbus stations I don't know...

If you decide to try an antenna the Channel Master 4228 UHF antenna & Channel Master 7777 pre amp are the recommended ones.

There is one other option with D* you might want to try and ask for waivers for the NY HD networks. Can't hurt to ask them either way.

I wonder if Bell Expressvu has full bandwidth networks. I may very well look into it if this keeps up. It won't affect WVAH/WCHS as much since they are 720p, but WSAZ and WOWK are going to get trashed at 1080i.


I am pretty sure Bell Expressvu are HD-lite like D* is. From what I have seen their HD stations are slightly better then D* at the moment. Starchoice is supposedly better then Bell Expressvu picture quality wise but they don't have a DVR where you can record two programs at once though.


sigh first it was just HD-lite over satellite now HD-lite over the air also...

Hello all...
Let me start by saying that before anyone flames me for not doing my homework about this, I have tried my best. Probably more than I should. I am spending way too much time searching forums and sites trying to get information about my situation with regards to the HD local concept and what I can do. I'm just not understanding some parts of it. Any help someone could offer would be greatly appreciated.
I'm a Directv sub, HD-DVR (H10-250). I get Charleston, WV locals through D*. I don't have an OTA. I live in The Plains, OH 45780 which is 93 miles from the city of Charleston and 70 miles from Columbus, OH.
Right now, am I too far away to think about picking up either of these cities' HD locals through an OTA? How would I be able to find out?
And when D* finally goes MPEG-4 in Charleston, if I get the right equipment (right receiver, right dish, etc) will I be able to receive the Charleston HD locals, without regards to my distance from Charleston? Or will I still need an OTA?

Like I said, I appreciate any and all help someone could offer.
Thanks,
Scott


checkout http://www.antennaweb.org . Put in your zip code and you will show you which stations you should be able to pick up.

I live in Parkersburg, very south Parkersburg, about 5-10 miles from the Jackson county line. Now I do live on top of a big hill, and we have some old ass antenna on top of a 30 ft mast, but I get all 4 networks from Charleston as well as the NBC station in Parkersburg and even the PBS feed from Athens, OH (which is very cool). I wish I could put up the signal strength numbers that I see a lot of other posters do, but my TV just has some generic 5 bar system. Not sure about the equipment, it's all 30+ years old, my dad put it up before cable was even available. But, I get all the locals no problem at all. So depending on your geographic area, you may be able to get quite a bit off air. If you live on top of a big hill you should definitely give it a try. If you're in a valley, you're probably screwed as far as OTA is concerned. Good luck.

BTW talk about crappy multicasting. The NBC affiliate in Parkersburg created multi-casting for both Fox channels & UPN channels. Their PQ on the HD feed is terrible. But, I think the PQ on WSAZ isn't that good either, compared to how good WOWK looks anyway. Anybody else feel the same about this? I work late, so my biggest comparison is Letterman PQ v Leno PQ, and it's not even close.
Someone mentioned that WSAZ is launching 3-2 in September, what is it supposed to be?

Totally unrelated, does anyone have any recommendations as far as a battery back-up/surge protector for your home theater system? I've been kicking around this idea for some time.

Totally unrelated, does anyone have any recommendations as far as a battery back-up/surge protector for your home theater system? I've been kicking around this idea for some time.
I use just the large computer APC UPS's you can get at BB or CC. I use the battery backup mainly for the TiVo's since if you get a slight interuption it can take them 5 minutes to come back. Not good if you are recording something. The ones I have will run a PC for an hour or so.

Hello all...
Let me start by saying that before anyone flames me for not doing my homework about this, I have tried my best. Probably more than I should. I am spending way too much time searching forums and sites trying to get information about my situation with regards to the HD local concept and what I can do. I'm just not understanding some parts of it. Any help someone could offer would be greatly appreciated.
I'm a Directv sub, HD-DVR (H10-250). I get Charleston, WV locals through D*. I don't have an OTA. I live in The Plains, OH 45780 which is 93 miles from the city of Charleston and 70 miles from Columbus, OH.
Right now, am I too far away to think about picking up either of these cities' HD locals through an OTA? How would I be able to find out?
And when D* finally goes MPEG-4 in Charleston, if I get the right equipment (right receiver, right dish, etc) will I be able to receive the Charleston HD locals, without regards to my distance from Charleston? Or will I still need an OTA?

Like I said, I appreciate any and all help someone could offer.
Thanks,
Scott
Scott,

You MAY be able to get the network HD affilate stations out of NYC vis DirecTV. I made up an address for The Plains, OH and plugged it into this DirecTV web page

http://directvdnseligibility.decisionmark.com/app/AddressForm.aspx

and it WAS eligible for all four NY HD stations on DirecTV!!!

It all depends whether or not DirecTV thinks you can access HD stations from your address via OTA.

Plug in your address and see. If you are eligible it will cost you $1.50/month for each station. But well worth it to get network TV in HD. I am eligible for 3/4 networks.

After they put the Charleston locals in HD over DirecTV they will take away the NYC stations.

Let us know if you are eligible.

Scott,

You MAY be able to get the network HD affilate stations out of NYC vis DirecTV. I made up an address for The Plains, OH and plugged it into this DirecTV web page

and it WAS eligible for all four NY HD stations on DirecTV!!!

It all depends whether or not DirecTV thinks you can access HD stations from your address via OTA.

Plug in your address and see. If you are eligible it will cost you $1.50/month for each station. But well worth it to get network TV in HD. I am eligible for 3/4 networks.

After they put the Charleston locals in HD over DirecTV they will take away the NYC stations.

Let us know if you are eligible.

I tried my address, and if I am reading it right I am eligible!!! If this works, I'm sending you a 12 pack!!! The only problem was when I called D* they said the system was "updating" and they would have to return my call to check to see if I am eligible. I asked if I should call back later to speed up the process and evidently that annoyed the CSR, so she just repeated the line about callback hours being M-F, 9-5 p.m. etc. This would be so cool. I invited friends over to watch the World Cup final in HD, and then realized it will be ABC so I won't have it by July 9th. I appreciate all of this information. Thanks...

I invited friends over to watch the World Cup final in HD, and then realized it will be ABC so I won't have it by July 9th.
If you are eligible, then you will have it immediately. All they need to do is flip the switch.

Call back and ask for the DNS eligibility department. Skip the front line CSR's as they are clueless. (Not our Clueless. ;) )

^ I probably missed something, but is Charter getting ABC in HD anytime soon?

If you are eligible, then you will have it immediately. All they need to do is flip the switch.

Call back and ask for the DNS eligibility department. Skip the front line CSR's as they are clueless. (Not our Clueless. ;) )



Well, it's a good thing this internet concept is anonymous or I would have to fork over ten bucks for a twelve pack to Clueless right now :)
Called D* back. CSR looks up my address. Says "Now, I've never seen this before. It's an automatic waiver. No need to do anything except for me to enter this, and, you now have the NY HD locals. Check channel 80".
He's right. Four nets in HD. And he told me that there is no fee - though if the $1.50 shows up I won't complain.

It was that easy? And to think I was this close to buying a big old OTA and trying to mount it on my roof.

Clueless, and the others giving help to idiots like me, Good Karma your way.
I appreciate it.
Scott

Glad everything worked out. They use some kind of equation based on your location, surrounding topology, where the transmitters are located, power they transmit at, etc. to determine if you live in a "white area" (an area that can't receive the stations with an antenna). I only live about 25 miles south of the 11 tower but because of the mountains I am eligible to get them on DirecTV.

Right now I think they are using the old calculation that they use for SD transmissions to determine if you can get HD. At some point they are supposed to come up with a new calculation just for HD. I guess that might affect us - but DirecTV will probably have the Charleston locals on in HD by they time they do that.

ENJOY!!!

Oh, and you can send the cash to..... :)

^ I probably missed something, but is Charter getting ABC in HD anytime soon?

I don't know, but WCHS is reporting that Sinclair Broadcasting does not have an agreement in place with Cebridge (now known as Suddenlink) and that their signal (standard def.) may get pulled from our cable. WCHS says if you have a problem with this to call Charter/Cebridge.

I see from the news that the sale is almost final.

Perhaps if Cebridge/Sinclair are negotiating over the standard def. signal, they will throw high def. into the negotiations too.


http://biz.yahoo.com/bizj/060703/1310519.html?.v=1

Charter completes $900M asset sale to Cebridge, New Wave
Monday July 3, 1:06 pm ET


Charter Communications Inc. said Monday it completed its $896 million sale of various geographically non-strategic assets to Cebridge Acquisition Co. LLC and New Wave Communications.
The transactions, subject to post-closing adjustments, were announced in February and include certain cable television systems in West Virginia and Virginia, sold to Cebridge, and in Illinois and Kentucky, sold to New Wave.

I think this is very interesting...... I can't wait to see what this means to the consumer in the Charleston Market. I really want to know how this will effect programming.... better or worse? But it could be months or possibly a year or two to see how this all pans out.

^^ You're saying we might not even get plain ole ABC (standard def.) through cable at all? That's crazy...at least I hope!

I've been enjoying the movies on TNT HD weekends; this past weekend I watched "Blue Streak" & last night "Rush Hour 2". Those movies are hilarious and look very good in HD.

I know this is off topic, but I've got to vent a little.... sorry -

The owners of WCHS and WVAH are trying to absolutely SOAK Suddenlink to the tune of $40M upfront and an annual reoccurring cost of ~$2M. From everything I've seen, this cost is way out of line (by like 10x). And then to top it all off, these two channels are running banners with messages every 15 minutes saying to contact DirecTV or Dish because the "new company" may not carry their stations. They're makign it sound like Suddenlink is to blame and they're using their broadcasts to try to get the public to put pressure on them to pay out the nose... that is, pay what seems to be an unfair price. There's something just not right about that. Hopefully the FCC will step in, because if Suddenlink is forced to pay that outrageous cost, you know who it will ultimately be passed onto --> us.... the consumer. *sigh*

The numbers are legit. WOW! I know SBG wants to make money, but that seems a little high for Charleston, WV.

http://www.multichannel.com/index.asp?layout=articlePrint&articleid=CA6349903

OTOH, the $3200 per customer that Suddenlink paid seems a tad high as well. And what happened to Cebridge?

Glad I am with D* who has a deal with SBG already in place.

I have DirecTV too, so I'm not worried about losing the programming. I have cable of the HS internet. I just think it's wrong for SBG to try to strong-arm Suddenlink into a deal by running the messages telling people to call other companies. Especially when their demands are so outrageous. As for Cebridge - I guess it's just a name change. Cebridge's parent company is Cequel, and I believe Cequal also owns Suddenlink. Cebridge came in to my area (Coopers Creek) and bought out Thompson and absolutely turned the system around. They did serious upgrades and brought the infrastructure into the 21st century -- finally providing high-speed internet -- for which I'm eternally grateful! I'm thrilled with their service. If they continue along with their track record, it'll be a good thing that they bought Charter. That's just my $0.02 anyway.

Again, sorry for the OT. Also, I guess I'm a bit of a noob to the TV-related forums. Why is it people refer to DirecTV as D*? Is it just an abbreviation, or am I breaching some sort of protocol by spelling it out?

Again, sorry for the OT. Also, I guess I'm a bit of a noob to the TV-related forums. Why is it people refer to DirecTV as D*? Is it just an abbreviation, or am I breaching some sort of protocol by spelling it out?

I think it came from the fact that an * looks like a star, so people abbreviated Echostar as E*. Since there were a lot of discussions on the merits of Echostar vs. DirecTV people got tired of typing DirecTV and started using D*.

No breach of protocol that I'm aware of.

The numbers are legit. WOW! I know SBG wants to make money, but that seems a little high for Charleston, WV.

http://www.multichannel.com/index.asp?layout=articlePrint&articleid=CA6349903

OTOH, the $3200 per customer that Suddenlink paid seems a tad high as well. And what happened to Cebridge?

Glad I am with D* who has a deal with SBG already in place.

Do you know if the D* agreement with Sinclair includes HD ?

Wow $40 mill up front!! Ya know the local network affiliates basically have a government granted monopoly on the rebroadcast of the network feeds. If they are going to pull this stongarm stuff in negotiations, the cable companies should be free to negotiate with other network affilates for coverage. For example if Suddenlink can't come to an agreement with SBC they should be free to negotiate with the ABC and FOX affiliates in Cincinnati, Lexington, etc. to be carried on their system.

Good call, Clueless! I'd love to be able to watch KDKA, WTAE, and WPXI out of Pittsburgh again! lol

Do you know if the D* agreement with Sinclair includes HD ?

Thankfully it does.

http://www.sbgi.net/press/release_2005411_106.shtml

OTOH, who knows what WSAZ and the AC will want for retransmission.

And to followup on Clueless's explanation of the D* E* nomenclature, I it my understanding that it originated not with E*, but with the old Primestar and the abbreviation P*. But idea that * represents a star is accurate. And don't leave out *C or StarChoice. ;)

One would hope that if WSAZ and WOWK can reach an HD agreement with the local cable companies they can with D*. I guess time will tell...


P*, E*, D*, *Wars, B*G, *Gate, * Jones - the possibilities are endless :)

I'd like to see this happen just to hear all of the backlash it would create.
I am a E* customer and I also receive the FOX and ABC local OTA digital so the outage won't effect me.

Sorry guys, I usually just read and don't post, but if this situation with Suddenlink gets expensive or messy, does anyone have a recommendation on a replacement here in S. Charleston. I have no experience whatsoever with Dish or DirecTV as far as HD is concerned.

hey guys, its been a while...

i'm in the process of moving from huntington to ashland, ky. i just found out that adelphia services the area i'm moving to (have had armstrong until now). does adelphia offer any locals? i currently get wowk and wsaz hd with armstrong. also, does anybody have a hddvr box from adelphia and know what firmware they are running?

i have been very happy with armstrong the last 2 years and hate to switch. i would be open to direct tv based on recommendations over adelphia.

thnx,
Andy

Hey Andy

If you consider going with Directv, let me know. To what part of Ashland are you moving? I get 3.1, 8.1, 8.2, 11.1, 13.1 + a few more with my OTA antenna and also have directv (without locals).

You're more than welcome to check out my tv etc if you want.

Bruce

Sorry guys, I usually just read and don't post, but if this situation with Suddenlink gets expensive or messy, does anyone have a recommendation on a replacement here in S. Charleston. I have no experience whatsoever with Dish or DirecTV as far as HD is concerned.
Right now neither of them have the Charleston locals in HD. Since you're in SC I doubt you would qualify for the NY locals in HD. Rumor is that DirecTV will have at least some of the Charleston locals on in HD in 2007. Of course you could probably get them with an antenna.

Right now Dish has more HD channels - a lot of them are the old VOOM channels. However DirecTV is supposed to add a bunch in 2007.

Well I don't really call the SAT HD high definition its more like 0.75HD.
Only over the air stuff looks like true HD to me anymore.
If I was not using my DISH 811 in two rooms right now I'd cancel my SAT HD.
I just don't watch the stuff enough (until football season) for it to be worth it and the PQ has continued to decline over the years.

Hey Andy

If you consider going with Directv, let me know. To what part of Ashland are you moving? I get 3.1, 8.1, 8.2, 11.1, 13.1 + a few more with my OTA antenna and also have directv (without locals).

You're more than welcome to check out my tv etc if you want.

Bruce

Mindy Jane Court (off of 168)

do you know if adelphia is offering any locals in hd?

what type of setup are you using?

Andy

I'm not positive, but I think that Adelphia offers the locals in HD.

I have the 10-250 Directv DVR tuner; I get the locals via an OTA roof-mounted antenna.

Can you mount an antenna on your new location? If so, I would think that you would have good luck picking up the locals OTA because it is not very far from where I live.

Well, I am in California right now, but I bought a couple of acres in Randolph County near Becky’s creek. I plan on moving there when I retire with my wife who is a Mountaineer. Thanks for the info.