UHD was just added to Comcast in Denver over the last few days. No official notice from Comcast - it doesn't show up on the channel line up (which hasn't been updated since before they dropped InHD2 for TNT) and there have been no messages on the cable box. Lack of notification is par for the course here.
I hope they start filling the gaps with NG and A&E, if not HDNet.

This is great news. I've been waiting for this one to show up. The lack of notification is very annoying. I found out about MHD from an AVS thread too!

BTW, does it bother you that while we have a MyNetworkTV channel in HD here, it doesn't actually deliver the HD content in HD? (Not like I'm interested in Telenovellas per se, but it was more annoying when it was a UPN affiliate. Now those shows are on CW2 in HD)

Not to drag out the local issue (there is a local Denver Comcast thread at http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=293562 ), but I don't catch much on MyNetworkTV except for the early version of the news, which IS in HD. I wasn't that happy when we couldn't get Veronica Mars in HD, but I guess it took the KUSA buyout to get HD on that channel. The HD shows (not that I watch them) appeared to be on HD tonight.

seems like we are getting MHD any time now here in Lancaster, PA. It's listed on 229, but currently gives an error when you try and tune the channel. I suspect it'll probably be on by the morning.

The info from the guide never shows on INHD anymore. Anyway else have that problem? The channel doesn't have a name, just channel 206, and every show is titled "To Be Announced" with no info. It's been doing this for a week or so.
happened before, nothing new


Now it's been going on for 2 weeks. Should I call?

Also, now channel 210 has appeared, but there's no programing. It just says to be announced. Think they are finally gonna add UHD there?

Think they are finally gonna add UHD there?

You STILL don't have UHD? I'm 30 minutes south of you and we've had it for months, but still don't have A&EHD & NGHD.

You STILL don't have UHD? I'm 30 minutes south of you and we've had it for months, but still don't have A&EHD & NGHD.

Yeah, it sucks considering I never even watch TV, but if I could watch Firefly and BSG I would.

Anyone in Central MD have a blank screen (sometimes says "Available Shortly") on 227 (now MHD, used to be INHD2)?

I called the local CSR, who resent the signal and had me reboot, to no avail.

Anyone in Central MD have a blank screen (sometimes says "Available Shortly") on 227 (now MHD, used to be INHD2)?

I called the local CSR, who resent the signal and had me reboot, to no avail.

You most likely have a signal level issue and need a svc call.

GoIrish

INHD2 is now TNTHD in Morgantown.. noticed it Saturday when I rebooted my box. Got too see the LOTR triology..

Thats interesting. Now my INHD2 station is blank. Maybe I'll try rebooting my system.

Anybody know when NGC-HD & A&E-HD will be added in South Jersey, and why we're always late getting new HD channels? An engineer yesterday told me we've plenty of bandwidth (as much as any other Comcast system).

Uggh... this make me sick. To see how many HD channels some Comcasters get that I don't. Here in Minnesota, the HD channels are sort of lacking.

Here are the HD channels currently available on Comcast, all channels not available in all Comcast service areas:

National Geographic HD (DON'T HAVE IT)
A&E HD (DON'T HAVE IT)
ESPN HD
ESPN2 HD
TNT HD
Discovery HD
INHD
INHD2 (DON'T HAVE IT)
Universal HD (DON'T HAVE IT)
MHD
HBO HD
Cinemax HD
Showtime HD
Starz HD
Regional Sports Net HD (DON'T HAVE IT)
NFL Network HD (DON'T HAVE IT)

ABC HD
NBC HD
CBS HD
FOX HD
My Network TV HD
The CW HD
PBS HD

As Ken indicated: Not all channels are available on all systems. Here, INHD2 is gone, and I don't recall seeing A&E, NFL or a separate regional sports network in HD.

Uggh... this make me sick. To see how many HD channels some Comcasters get that I don't. Here in Minnesota, the HD channels are sort of lacking.Except for UHD, you're no different than here in Denver. We just got UHD a couple of weeks ago, and there's been no official notice from Comcast (e.g., message on the cable box). So if I didn't overshoot when changing channels, I might not have found it for a while. Any regional or NFL network shows are on InHD1 here, not a separate channel. InHD2 will be gone from all systems by the end of the year. It would be nice to have AE and NG - we'll see if we get Christmas presents from Comcast, but I'm not holding my breath. Our best bet might be the Versus/Golf channel that's supposed to get added to all systems early next year.

As Ken indicated: Not all channels are available on all systems. Here, INHD2 is gone, and I don't recall seeing A&E, NFL or a separate regional sports network in HD.

bicker1,
INHD2 is going off-the-air, which is why we lost it. NFLNetwork HD games are carried on INHD1, and the regional sports network is NESN-HD. A&E is all that we are missing at this point.

Here in Guilford CT we are in the Hartford/New Haven Media Market (Market Size #28) however we are (2 hrs) from New York (Market Size #1) and 2 hours from Boston (Market Size #7). Based on our location and proximity to New York and Boston the COMCAST HD content should be better. Here is what is available on the Comcast System and what is available in our area. :mad: :( :(


National Geographic HD (DON'T HAVE IT)
A&E HD (DON'T HAVE IT)
ESPN HD
ESPN2 HD
TNT HD (DON'T HAVE IT)
Discovery HD
INHD
INHD2 Replaced by ESPN2 HD
Universal HD (DON'T HAVE IT)
MHD (DON'T HAVE IT)
HBO HD
Cinemax HD (DON'T HAVE IT)
Showtime HD
Starz HD
NESN HD Regional Sports Net HD
YES HD Regional Sports Net HD (Part Time)
NFL Network HD (DON'T HAVE IT)

ABC HD
NBC HD
CBS HD
FOX HD
My Network TV HD (DON'T HAVE IT)
The CW HD (DON'T HAVE IT)
PBS HD

Based on our location and proximity to New York and Boston the COMCAST HD content should be better. Huh? HD content shouldn't be related to how close you are to other markets, but rather should be based on how much of a financial incentive there is to service providers willing to provide such service to your market.

Comcast Boston (as of 12/27/06)

National Geographic HD
A&E HD (DON'T HAVE IT)
ESPN HD
ESPN2 HD
TNT HD
Discovery HD
INHD
INHD2 Replaced by National Geographic HD
Universal HD
HDNet (DON'T HAVE IT)
HDNet Movies (DON'T HAVE IT)
MHD
HBO HD
Cinemax HD
Showtime HD
Starz HD
NESN HD Regional Sports Net HD
FSN HD Regional Sports Net HD (Part Time) (ONLY the Home Celtics games)
NFL Network HD (only the NFL games and on INHD)

ABC HD
NBC HD
CBS HD
FOX HD
My Network TV HD (DON'T HAVE IT, but on the other hand WZMY doesn't even have an HD signal)
The CW HD
PBS HD

Comcast Boston (as of 12/27/06)

NFL Network HD (only the NFL games)

You have a dedicated channel for NFL Network HD?

Comcast Boston (as of 12/27/06)

National Geographic HD
A&E HD (DON'T HAVE IT)
ESPN HD
ESPN2 HD
TNT HD
Discovery HD
INHD
INHD2 Replaced by National Geographic HD
Universal HD
HDNet (DON'T HAVE IT)
HDNet Movies (DON'T HAVE IT)
MHD
HBO HD
Cinemax HD
Showtime HD
Starz HD
NESN HD Regional Sports Net HD
FSN HD Regional Sports Net HD (Part Time) (ONLY the Home Celtics games)
NFL Network HD (only the NFL games)

ABC HD
NBC HD
CBS HD
FOX HD
My Network TV HD (DON'T HAVE IT, but on the other hand WZMY doesn't even have an HD signal)
The CW HD
PBS HD

HDNet isn't available on Comcast anywhere.

Baltimore's My Network affiliate has an HD signal but shows its network programs in (upconverted) stretched SD.

You have a dedicated channel for NFL Network HD?

Baltimore has a Special Events channel that only shows live NFL games and (mostly) HD replays. It will also show their HD college games.

HDNet isn't available on Comcast anywhere.

Baltimore's My Network affiliate has an HD signal but shows its network programs in (upconverted) stretched SD.

Comcast systems acquired from Adelphia do so technically it is there.

Comcast systems acquired from Adelphia do so technically it is there.

It's only there because of existing contracts between Adelphia and HDNet. HDNet will go away in those areas if the contract expires prior to Comcast striking a deal with HDNet.

I don't see how you could say it's technically there when there isn't a contract between the two entities.

It's only there because of existing contracts between Adelphia and HDNet. HDNet will go away in those areas if the contract expires prior to Comcast striking a deal with HDNet.

I don't see how you could say it's technically there when there isn't a contract between the two entities.

When TW took over THEIR Aldephia systems they dropped NFL big time.

I didn't see that happening with HDNet and comcast.

You have a dedicated channel for NFL Network HD?
No. HD NFL games from NFL Network have been broadcast on the InHD channel here. No dedicated HD channel.

Mickey

That explains why I indicated that I don't have it.

Baltimore has a Special Events channel that only shows live NFL games and (mostly) HD replays. It will also show their HD college games.

That's interesting. In DC (as far as I can tell), though it doesn't show up in the channel guide, they show the live games on InHD (Ch. 226) w/ none of the HD replays being shown anywhere (i.e., you have to watch them in SD).

Here in the boondocks of Wyoming (Riverton/Casper) we have full time NFL HD network. Most of the content is SD, but the games, and replay games are all shown in HD.

Also, we have HDNet. Technically, we're Bresnan, but Bresnan, is majority owned by Comcast.

Alas, none of our local networks plan on making the move to HD until sometime in 2008. Very disappointing. And for some reason we get two channels of TNT HD.

Paul

Huh? HD content shouldn't be related to how close you are to other markets, but rather should be based on how much of a financial incentive there is to service providers willing to provide such service to your market.
Lets do a little busisess 101.

Where do you think there is greater finacnial incentive to offer more extensive HD service the outying areas (100 miles) if say Dallas Texas (no knock to dallas) or the 100 miles outside of New York City !!!

1. The Northeast corridor is one of the most densly populated areeas of the country.
2. The population in CT is one of the wealthiest in the nation.

There is this enough financial incentive ?

anyone with a list of HD channels in the Chicago/Hoffman Estates area?

My HD Special Events Channel says "Coming Soon: UFC 67". This is the first time I've seen something other than boxing listed on this channel. It also has boxing on 1/6.

Lets do a little busisess 101. Great! I'll pull out my lecture notes from when I taught that course. :)

Where do you think there is greater finacnial incentive to offer more extensive HD service the outying areas (100 miles) if say Dallas Texas (no knock to dallas) or the 100 miles outside of New York City !!!Dallas, TX. However, most of your message is utterly non-sequitur. What I wrote was, "HD content shouldn't be related to how close you are to other markets, but rather should be based on how much of a financial incentive there is to service providers willing to provide such service to your market." The fact that you live 100 miles outside of New York City should have practically no impact. All that matters is where you live -- not what's 100 miles away.

You came close when you mentioned that CT is one of the wealthiest states in the nation. However, what town do you live in? I've found that even living in an affluent town is not enough to assure the best selection -- in some cases you need to live in the more affluent sections of the more affluent towns.

When TW took over THEIR Aldephia systems they dropped NFL big time.

I didn't see that happening with HDNet and comcast.


One has nothing to do with the other. Comcast is honoring the contract Adelphia had with HDNet and their official stance is that it'll be gone when those contracts expire. Until Comcast has a deal with HDNet directly then all you're doing is skewing the truth.

When TW took over THEIR Aldephia systems they dropped NFL big time.

I didn't see that happening with HDNet and comcast.


I just received a postcard here in Loudoun from Comcast announcing a change to their HD lineup on 1/16/2007:

INHD2 to be replaced with ESPN2 HD
HDNet to be replaced with Discovery HD
HDNet Movies to be replaced with TNT HD


http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=517400&page=345&pp=30

UFC 67 will indeed be broadcast in HD. They even announced it during the Dec 30th telecast of UFC66. This will be awesome especially considering it will be the debut of Mirko CroCop and the return of Quintin Jackson to the UFC. Not to mention MW and WW championship bouts.

Mixed Martial arts in High-Def is a wonderful thing. Even the Busch league WFC matched on HDNet look great.

On a side note, it looks like the days of WEC on HDNet are history. They are moving to VS network while at the same time the UFC is hooking up with HBO for a 4 event deal. I assume that will also be in HD.

Here in Panama City Comcast just drop INHD2 and didn't replace it with anything. I knew INHD2 was going but I was hoping we would finally get ESPN2 or UHD.

And I just got a letter last week announcing a rate increase.

Here in Panama City Comcast just drop INHD2 and didn't replace it with anything. I knew INHD2 was going but I was hoping we would finally get ESPN2 or UHD.

And I just got a letter last week announcing a rate increase.

I would imagine that you may get the new Comcast Vs./Golf Channel to replace it some time in the next 60 days

If I look up my lineup on comcast.com, it shows "Comcast Sports HD" on channel 254. No sign of it on TV yet though. No one at Comcast (of course) knows anything about it.
On another note...
Where I live, Comcast claims that it is cost prohibitive to show Comcast SportsNet (Washington) HD because the signal is only given terrestrially. Is there anyone else here that gets their regional sports network in HD from over 100 miles away? I get the SD channel, but they claim it's cost prohibitive to get CSN-HD.

If I look up my lineup on comcast.com, it shows "Comcast Sports HD" on channel 254. No sign of it on TV yet though. No one at Comcast (of course) knows anything about it.
On another note...
Where I live, Comcast claims that it is cost prohibitive to show Comcast SportsNet (Washington) HD because the signal is only given terrestrially. Is there anyone else here that gets their regional sports network in HD from over 100 miles away? I get the SD channel, but they claim it's cost prohibitive to get CSN-HD.


The Versus/Golf HD channel has been showing up in the guide as Comcast Sports
HD in some areas.

It started this morning, showing Golf Channel shows in SD. Rocky IV will be shown all night tonight, I guess in HD.

More good news for Comcast subscribers. Comcast is already showing an HD NHL Center Ice channel in Delaware and parts of Maryland. Hopefully it will spread to other markets soon since Comcast owns a chunk of InDemand.

Maybe someday Comcast will distribute their regional Comcast SportsNet HD signals by satellite so more of us can see it.

Comcast Detroit Lineup:

199 National Geographic HD
200 A&E HD
201 Fox Sports Net HD Detroit
202 ESPN HD
203 ESPN2 HD
204 TNT HD
205 Discovery HD
206 INHD (MLB, NBA HD, NFL Network)
207 CSHD Golf Channel HD / Versus HD (NHL)
208 Universal HD
209 MHD
215 HBO HD
219 Cinemax HD
223 Showtime HD
227 Starz HD
231 ABC WXYZ-DT
232 NBC WDIV-DT
233 CBS WWJ-DT
234 FOX WJBK-DT
235 My Network TV WMYD-DT
236 The CW WKBD-DT
240 PBS WTVS-DT (HD PBS Digital)

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=453486&page=1&pp=30

Comcast is already showing an HD NHL Center Ice channel in Delaware and parts of Maryland.


THEY ARE??!!

We have all the usual ones and just picked up UHD, CSHD and NGHD last night. I am stoked, but don't know really why; just the thought of more HD gets me fired up!

I don't really understand the excitement behind UHD, the shows on it seem pretty lame. Why not put something on that appeals to more?

THEY ARE??!!

I would love this, what is the channel labeled as in the IPG? What channel number? What is your Zipcode?

What is the channel labeled as in the IPG? What channel number? What is your Zipcode?

It's 254, which is the channel I'm getting the VS / Golf HD Channel on.

Here's my system for checking out different markets- go to www.zap2it.com and enter zip code 19904 for Dover, DE and/or 21804 for Salisbury, MD. Channel 254 says NHL Center Ice HD games.

Another method is to go to www.comcast.com and click on "channel lineup" under "programming". Enter any address like "111 Main St" and the correct zip code for the city you want. Under this, channel 254 is "HD iNDemand" for both cities. To reset the city you're looking up, cick "reset" in the top right corner.

Where I live (23225), there's no iNDemand HD channel or RSN (Comcast SportsNet HD), so don't feel like you're the only one left out.

In Seattle, they dropped InHd-1 part time, Fox sports shares the channel now.

I wish these companies would realise that most people do not care about sports.

In Seattle, they dropped InHd-1 part time, Fox sports shares the channel now.

I wish these companies would realise that most people do not care about sports.

sports is fueling HD sales so they are just tailoring to the early adopters. most people who do not care about sports do not have HD sets. i think.

sports is fueling HD sales so they are just tailoring to the early adopters. most people who do not care about sports do not have HD sets. i think.

I agree with you 100%, Sports is a major, if not, THE driving force behind the HD push to consumers

It's 254, which is the channel I'm getting the VS / Golf HD Channel on.

Here's my system for checking out different markets- go to www.zap2it.com and enter zip code 19904 for Dover, DE and/or 21804 for Salisbury, MD. Channel 254 says NHL Center Ice HD games.

Another method is to go to www.comcast.com and click on "channel lineup" under "programming". Enter any address like "111 Main St" and the correct zip code for the city you want. Under this, channel 254 is "HD iNDemand" for both cities. To reset the city you're looking up, cick "reset" in the top right corner.

Where I live (23225), there's no iNDemand HD channel or RSN (Comcast SportsNet HD), so don't feel like you're the only one left out.


I won't get it anytime soon anyways. Even though on on a 750Mhz network, I'm still with out my RSNHD, UHD, NCGHD, AEHD, CSHD. Last change came in Septmeber when we lost InHD2 and got MHD. Hell, I'd be happy if InHD was split with my RSN. Ken H told me in another thread and a new piece of equipment was needed at the headend to bring these new channels in. I checked with my Account Exec and I was told that there were no plans to bring additional HD to my area. I'm pissed, but D* and E* don't offer my locals or RSNHD so Comcast is my best option.

Don't be discouraged by the "no current plans" line. I hear that every time I ask Comcast anything. Then later, the new channels just appear. Seeing where you live, I know it kills you not being able to see the Red Wings and Tigers in HD.

That why I'm still waiting for the day when two "H:" channels just pop up :)

I don't really understand the excitement behind UHD, the shows on it seem pretty lame. Why not put something on that appeals to more?

It's the only way to watch certain Sci-Fi Channel programs in HD, such as Battlestar Galactica and Stargate Atlantis. Perhaps someday, they'll even show Doctor Who in HD on that channel.

It's the only way to watch certain Sci-Fi Channel programs in HD, such as Battlestar Galactica and Stargate Atlantis. Perhaps someday, they'll even show Doctor Who in HD on that channel.

And some of the movies aren't bad either. Double feature of BRAZIL & 12 MONKEYS, CASINO, DEER HUNTER, the BACK TO THE FUTURE trilogy, MATINEE, even THE SENTINEL!

My big complaint is that none of their programming is in Dolby 5.1, as they advertise.

Comcast Baltimore City lineup:

210 ABC
211 NBC
212 CBS
213 FOX
214 CW
220 PBS
224 National Geographic
225 Discovery
226 INHD
227 MHD
249 TNT
250 Universal
251 CSN
252 ESPN
253 ESPN2
254 Golf/Versus
258 HD-SE (PPV)
Plus premiums

Comcast Baltimore City lineup:

No A&E-HD?

No A&E-HD?

No.

Is 258 for NHL Center Ice and other sports package games? Also, how do the CSN-HD games look? That's the one channel Comcast claims it's impossible to pick up here because it's too expensive to make a fiber-optic connection.

I don't see Food Network HD or HGTV HD on any Comcast system. Is there a reason for their exclusion? Any chance of them being added 'soon'?

I don't see Food Network HD or HGTV HD on any Comcast system. Is there a reason for their exclusion? Any chance of them being added 'soon'?

No contract for those.

Is 258 for NHL Center Ice and other sports package games? Also, how do the CSN-HD games look? That's the one channel Comcast claims it's impossible to pick up here because it's too expensive to make a fiber-optic connection.

258 is for boxing and UFC. No Center Ice so far. CSN HD looks good.

No contract for those.

You work for Comcast?

You work for Comcast?

No.

Still no A&E HD, NGC HD or VSGOLFHD for Southeastern PA. I think scanpa or Jwhip said end of January, but that was awhile ago. We've got room since INHD2 was removed, I think I'm on an 850mhz system so there should be room.. :confused: I've noticed ESPN2HD was renamed from "ESPN2" to ES2HD" or something of the like to distinguish it from regular ESPN2.

Any word on A&E HD or National Geographic HD in NJ? The only new HD channel that we're getting is VSGLF on January 31.

I've noticed ESPN2HD was renamed from "ESPN2" to ES2HD" or something of the like to distinguish it from regular ESPN2.
Yes, it was but it only lasted one day. :confused:
After the 'WPVI' (ABC and ABC-HD ) debacle, where it would record the lower channel number 'WPVI', which is channel 6, sometimes, and they renamed it 'ABC-HD', you would think they wouldn't have made the same mistake again. Now, they correct it, but change it back, at least here on the Willow Grove system.
Maybe people called asking where ESPN2-HD was? I doubt it.
They could rename it 'ESP2D'. There is no logic when it comes to the channel labels with Comcast. :)

Yes, it was but it only lasted one day. :confused:
After the 'WPVI' (ABC and ABC-HD ) debacle, where it would record the lower channel number 'WPVI', which is channel 6, sometimes, and they renamed it 'ABC-HD', you would think they wouldn't have made the same mistake again. Now, they correct it, but change it back, at least here on the Willow Grove system.
Maybe people called asking where ESPN2-HD was? I doubt it.
They could rename it 'ESP2D'. There is no logic when it comes to the channel labels with Comcast. :)

Maybe they need to use more than five characters.

Any word on A&E HD or National Geographic HD in NJ? The only new HD channel that we're getting is VSGLF on January 31.

Here's the word I received today:


Thank you for your message.

I understand you would like further information regarding the addition of The National Geographic HD and A&E HD to your Comcast channel lineup.

Our goal is to provide a wide choice of quality cable networks and local broadcast channels reflecting the diverse programming interests of our customers. In addition to requests from customers, the following factors play a part in our decision making process:

7 FCC regulations, such as requirements to carry all local broadcast channels 7 Requirement by local broadcasters to carry their affiliated cable networks 7 The number of access channels required by local government 7 Customer satisfaction with networks carried in other systems 7 Customer satisfaction with similar networks 7 Importance of the network to our diverse community 7 Level of interest across a percentage of our customer base 7 Per-subscriber programming fees charged by the network versus the value added to the line-up

As you may know, we have been investing millions of dollars in new technology to increase the channel capacity of the system through digital technology. So an additional factor in launching new channels is whether or not a particular network is available in the digital format.

What this all means is that we take all requests for new networks very seriously, and that we carefully consider the overall impact of adding each network. While we cannot honor every request, we do take each request into consideration in planning future changes to the line-up.

If you need further assistance, please feel free to respond directly to this email. We appreciate you taking the time to contact us.

Thank you for choosing Comcast.

Here's the word I received today:


Thank you for your message.

I understand you would like further information regarding the addition of The National Geographic HD and A&E HD to your Comcast channel lineup.

....

Thank you for choosing Comcast.

They used a lot of words to tell you nothing. They probably hired a high price PR firm to come up with that line of BS form letter. I think I received that same letter on a post card from them last year when I asked a CSR for HDNET.

Our HD channels in Jax are on 165-179, 181, 184, 190, & 200. The put VSGOL on 405... where is the logic in that??? I havent seen anything in HD on it either yet...


We have yet to receive UHD, let alone a&e or NGEOHD. We do have fearhd on demand as well as ngeohd... I think locally if it doesnt play sports, they arent in any hurry to add the channel... so far espn2 has had little league playoffs, spelling bees and high school basketball... none of which has been in HD. waiste of a channel IMO.

Our HD channels in Jax are on 165-179, 181, 184, 190, & 200. The put VSGOL on 405... where is the logic in that??? I havent seen anything in HD on it either yet...


We have yet to receive UHD, let alone a&e or NGEOHD. We do have fearhd on demand as well as ngeohd... I think locally if it doesnt play sports, they arent in any hurry to add the channel... so far espn2 has had little league playoffs, spelling bees and high school basketball... none of which has been in HD. waiste of a channel IMO.

I don't understand your post. Wednesday night ESPN2 had Pitt-DePaul in HD. They almost always have one game a day in HD now (except Tuesday which seems to be a day off for HD for both ESPN and ESPN2). I'd say about half their college BB is in HD.

I do share your concern about VSGLF, I haven't seen anything in HD yet. Now that is really a wasted HD channel, IMO. But I haven't had the time nor inclination to watch that much.

Rich N.

I do share your concern about VSGLF, I haven't seen anything in HD yet. Now that is really a wasted HD channel, IMO. But I haven't had the time nor inclination to watch that much.

Rich N.

Jimminy Christmas! The channel just launched. It hardly has anyone that can actually view it yet.

Give it about 6 months and then make an assesment.

ESPN-HD only had a couple of broadcasts per week for months when it first started.

I don't understand your post. Wednesday night ESPN2 had Pitt-DePaul in HD. They almost always have one game a day in HD now (except Tuesday which seems to be a day off for HD for both ESPN and ESPN2). I'd say about half their college BB is in HD.

I do share your concern about VSGLF, I haven't seen anything in HD yet. Now that is really a wasted HD channel, IMO. But I haven't had the time nor inclination to watch that much.

Rich N.

It's been a whole week and a half since the service existed, yep, plenty of time to decide it will never amount to anything.

GoIrish

So what is the potential update about the possibility of HDNet and HDNet movies coming to Comcast?

Has Marc cuban decided to NEVER but them on? What is keeping them up?

With all the new HD channels launching it could make things difficult for HDNet unless they are close to an agreement.

They used a lot of words to tell you nothing. They probably hired a high price PR firm to come up with that line of BS form letter.On the contrary. They provided a respectful letter explaining the situation from their standpoint, without giving people out to find fault with them a cheap hammer with which they could viciously bash the company. Accept as a given that they're not providing the channel for good reasons (limited bandwidth, and requirements to carry local channels gobbling up lots of that). If not, then just say that you think they're lying. :rolleyes:

With all the new HD channels launching it could make things difficult for HDNet unless they are close to an agreement.

They seemed to have been close to an agreement for some time.

The more other HD channels launched,the less relevance HDNet will become.

Comcast doesn't want an HD only tier,HDNet wants a per subscriber fee, and Cuban doesn't have anything else to offer Comcast (Exclusive right to HDNEt on Demand would be good) :)

time will tell

I don't recall ever reading anything reliable that indicated that they were anywhere near being close to an agreement. Anything I've read that said anything along those lines was readily dismissed as wishful thinking.

It's been a whole week and a half since the service existed, yep, plenty of time to decide it will never amount to anything.

GoIrish

Easy, guys. I'm just not a big hockey or golf fan. Isn't that what it will have on?

Besides, I have a new channel to play with (NGCHD).

And, you know, I have been wrong before.

Comcast is doing a good job getting contracts for these channels. A&E should be good if the HD content is sufficient.

Rich N.

Here in morgantown we switched from Adelphia about a month ago. Yesterday I check out teh announcement channel 1 and I see (paraphrased of course) : "Attention, our current contract with sinclair media to rebroadcast the HD feed of Fox53 in pittsburgh is set to expire February 3. We are working hard to avoid service disruption but there is a possibilty service could temporarily be discontinued"

Damn, I thought I was in the clear after finally getting FoxHD.

Quote:Originally Posted by QZ1
They could rename it 'ESP2D'. There is no logic when it comes to the channel labels with Comcast.

Maybe they need to use more than five characters.
That's obvious, that the need at least six characters; the question is can the Guide accomodate it?
I am thinking maybe it will be modified to do so soon, that is why they are decided to wait; I don't know, just a guess.

I had to call Comcast today because of a biling issue. After that was resolved, she asked "is there anything else I can help you with?" and I couldn't resist. I asked when we would be able to see Comcast SportsNet HD, and she told me that it was on channel 254 already. I explained to the CSR that 254 is Vs/Golf, and that was not the channel I was asking about. She told me that I was wrong, and that it was Comcast SportsNet HD. I was so p.o.'d, I was shaking after I hung up with her. It shouldn't surprise me that a Comcast CSR knows nothing about cable programming. I guess it just made me mad when she gave me the wrong answer and basically told me I didn't know what I was talking about.

Comcast is doing a good job getting contracts for these channels.

:eek: A good job? DirecTV has already contracted with channels that aren't even on in HD yet; other systems get them on immediately, and Comcast waits months and even years after HD channels launch. IMO, sorry to disagree!

:eek: A good job? DirecTV has already contracted with channels that aren't even on in HD yet; other systems get them on immediately, and Comcast waits months and even years after HD channels launch. IMO, sorry to disagree!
It could always be possible that Comcast has contracts with the same channels that D* just announced, but choose not to say anything about them like D* does. Some Comcast system already have Cartoon Network HD OnDemand which might be a sign that they have an agreement for the upcoming Time Warner HD channels.

I had to call Comcast today because of a biling issue. After that was resolved, she asked "is there anything else I can help you with?" and I couldn't resist. I asked when we would be able to see Comcast SportsNet HD, and she told me that it was on channel 254 already. I explained to the CSR that 254 is Vs/Golf, and that was not the channel I was asking about. She told me that I was wrong, and that it was Comcast SportsNet HD. I was so p.o.'d, I was shaking after I hung up with her. It shouldn't surprise me that a Comcast CSR knows nothing about cable programming. I guess it just made me mad when she gave me the wrong answer and basically told me I didn't know what I was talking about.

She was probably confused because up until just a few days ago Comcast had been referring to their new channel as Comcast Sports HD. I think they realized the confusion that could cause in the marketplace and just did change the name I think last week.

Internally to its employees the company had been training its staff leading up to these launches with the old name and thus the confusion you got is created.

GoIrish

I'm sure that's exactly what happened. I just wish that the employees had adequate training so they knew what they were talking about. Cable companies should have their employees read or participate in these forums so they can keep up with the times.

Cable companies should have their employees read or participate in these forums so they can keep up with the times.And how much extra are you willing to pay each month for that improvement in service?

There is a message today indicating the Versus/Golf is available on 207. Comcast Central Jersey. Interestingly, it has not shown up yet.

There is a message today indicating the Versus/Golf is available on 207. Comcast Central Jersey. Interestingly, it has not shown up yet.

I got it too but it said for 1/31.

And how much extra are you willing to pay each month for that improvement in service?

Good point. I'd be willing to teach them classes myself if it would do some good. Somthing like "A day's discussion on HDTV and regional sports networks". Their knowledge is very lacking in those areas.

$3.57/month.

I'm sure that's exactly what happened. I just wish that the employees had adequate training so they knew what they were talking about. Cable companies should have their employees read or participate in these forums so they can keep up with the times.

There are a lot of bad/mis/incorrect information in
these forums. Let the reader beware.

jhl

And how much extra are you willing to pay each month for that improvement in service?
You don't think the cable companies are profitting plenty already? :rolleyes: :(

There are a lot of bad/mis/incorrect information in
these forums.l

The fact that the majority of Comcast's "customer account executives" (or whatever they're called - always gotta laugh at that one) are idiots isn't any of the above though.

$3.57/month.Now just convince a million of your closest friends to do the same, and you've got it made.

You don't think the cable companies are profitting plenty already? :rolleyes: :(I don't think that matters. You want better service, then you and a majority of everyone else will have to be willing to provide a supplier a sufficient incentive to provide what you want, i.e., that it would be more profitable than offering what they're offering now.

I don't think that matters. You want better service, then you and a majority of everyone else will have to be willing to provide a supplier a sufficient incentive to provide what you want, i.e., that it would be more profitable than offering what they're offering now.

Maybe someone could hold a telethon for them or something!

http://www.cmcsk.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=147565&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=921790&highlight=

Or folks who want cable companies to operate differently could just go ahead and buy one and make it work the way they want.

There is a message today indicating the Versus/Golf is available on 207. Comcast Central Jersey. Interestingly, it has not shown up yet.
If you had pressed info on that message it had a little write up about it. It said that its coming 1/31

We've got GOLF-HD/VS-HD up and running in Chicago.

;)

If you had pressed info on that message it had a little write up about it. It said that its coming 1/31

Guess I missed that.

We got Vs. / Golf HD today in Middle TN.

On the contrary. They provided a respectful letter explaining the situation from their standpoint, without giving people out to find fault with them a cheap hammer with which they could viciously bash the company. Accept as a given that they're not providing the channel for good reasons (limited bandwidth, and requirements to carry local channels gobbling up lots of that). If not, then just say that you think they're lying. :rolleyes:


It looks like pr propaganda to me. The respectful thing to do would be to get rid of some of the never watched stuff on analog such as shopping so that they can add the HD channels that their customers are asking for. If CC can get rid of 4 analog channels they can add 8 HD channels. A carefully worded no is still a no and by trying to convince you that you should feel good about the fact they are not providing you with what your asking for is not respect its manipulation.

It looks like pr propaganda to me. The respectful thing to do would be to get rid of some of the never watched stuff on analog such as shopping so that they can add the HD channels that their customers are asking for. If CC can get rid of 4 analog channels they can add 8 HD channels. A carefully worded no is still a no and by trying to convince you that you should feel good about the fact they are not providing you with what your asking for is not respect its manipulation.

What makes you think the shopping channels are "never watched" ? I understand that quite a few people watch them.

-Ken

What makes you think the shopping channels are "never watched" ? I understand that quite a few people watch them.

-Ken

Plus they pay to be carried. So they actually keep your bill down.

For those of you that have VOD, this may sound stupid but how do you know if you have it? Reason I ask is because a year ago when I was on adelphia I got a SA8300 that came with a black remote control and a VOD button in the middle of the remote. Problem was Adelphia did not have VOD at that point in time. So I actually traded my remote in for a silver SA8000 remote because it worked better with my setup. Problem now is the 8000 remote does not have a VOD button on it. And apparently since the switch to comcast I should now have some VOD content but no way to access it from the remote. Will it show up in my guide? How does it work?

Just change to channel 001...

Or go into the menu (you probably have a menu button) and look for the OnDemand selection. But that could be more button presses than parrothd's suggestion.

I don't think that matters. You want better service, then you and a majority of everyone else will have to be willing to provide a supplier a sufficient incentive to provide what you want, i.e., that it would be more profitable than offering what they're offering now.
I think the incentive should be people voting with their wallets, as in cancelling service and telling them it is because of poor customer service. If they do so, they will surely provide better service for the same price, because they would rather make a little less profit, than lose customers and lose even more profit. The trouble is, I think few people leave a TV provider due to poor service. :( And, anyway, it is not like one can say to the TV provider, I want to pay more, so I get better customer service.

In our area VOD is channel 199.

It looks like pr propaganda to me.Perhaps that was because you didn't like the implications of the letter. Sometime, some people are unhappy simply about not getting their way, regardless of how respectful the demurral is.

The respectful thing to do would be to get rid of some of the never watched stuff on analog such as shopping so that they can add the HD channels that their customers are asking for.No. That's a self-centered perspective. It is their business, so the have the right to make the best decisions for their business. The only issue here is whether or not they've communicated their decision to the customer respectfully. They did.

A carefully worded no is still a noAbsolutely.

and by trying to convince you that you should feel good about the fact they are not providing you with what your asking for is not respect its manipulation.If you interpret anytime someone declines a demand of yours as disrespect, then you're going to a very bitter and disappointed person. Good luck with that.

I think the incentive should be people voting with their wallets, as in cancelling service and telling them it is because of poor customer service.Absolutely. The trouble is, I think few people leave a TV provider due to poor service. :(I'm not so sure. However, they just go to another supplier, providing the same quality of service. Why? Because there isn't a large enough market for premium service. And, anyway, it is not like one can say to the TV provider, I want to pay more, so I get better customer service.Correct. There needs to be a critical mass of customers willing to pay more to get better service. The problem is that our society is chock-full of people who want $39 airline tickets. The high-end market for just about everything is shrinking. Welcome to the Wal-Mart world.

What's the speculation about Comcast's next HD channel addition?


As proven by this thread, no one has the inside track - so why ask?

As proven by this thread, no one has the inside track - so why ask?

Actually, there are people in AVSForum who do have an inside track. But they can't tell us everything they know. But these people do dispense what they can. And I appreciate it.

Thus we know that HDNETs are not imminent, so we can focus on those HD channels that do have some possibility (HGTVHD, FOODHD) and follow the rollouts of those channels for which there are contracts (A&EHD) but not much movement.

We've already watched several shows on NGCHD (the "Multiples" was amazing) so benefits are coming, and without an HD Tier.

Rich N.

Quote:
Originally Posted by maxman
What's the speculation about Comcast's next HD channel addition?

As proven by this thread, no one has the inside track - so why ask?

Consider that I asked the question in July of 2004.

Quote:
Originally Posted by maxman
What's the speculation about Comcast's next HD channel addition?



Consider that I asked the question in July of 2004.

and if you track the the Comcast additions and look up to 90 days in advance of the adds, as noted, its clear no one in this thread has inside info.

Just change to channel 001...

Okay maybe the on demand service is not activated in my area just yet. When I tune to channel 001 I get the comcast message channel. On my system channels 1-72 are analog channels
100's are digital SD channels
200's are premium movie channels
301-330 are pay-per-view
331-340 are porn
400's are digital music
500's and 600's premium sport subs
700's Hi-Def Channels.

I'll just call them and ask them what the status of VOD is.

Actually, there are people in AVSForum who do have an inside track. But they can't tell us everything they know. But these people do dispense what they can. And I appreciate it.

Thus we know that HDNETs are not imminent, so we can focus on those HD channels that do have some possibility (HGTVHD, FOODHD) and follow the rollouts of those channels for which there are contracts (A&EHD) but not much movement.

We've already watched several shows on NGCHD (the "Multiples" was amazing) so benefits are coming, and without an HD Tier.

Rich N.

Rich, I agree that those who have inside track info are pretty good about letting us know what they can when they can.

One thing that is constantly frustrating is to learn about agreements for channels (UHD, A&EHD, NGCHD) that have been in place and are not available on our local Comcast system. As large as the Atlanta market is you would think we would get these channels sooner rather than later but we don't have any of these, plus we don't even have a local PBS station for HD yet but that may be due to the digital buildout delay by our local PBS stations. Our additions have been MHD and most recently the Golf/Versus HD channel, yuck to both for me though I am sure others feel differently.

We did have UHD nearly a year ago during the Olympics but it soon disappeared and has never made it back. I am pretty sure that our system should have the bandwidth for more but additions here are painfully slow and almost never announced. :(

Quote:
Originally Posted by maxman
What's the speculation about Comcast's next HD channel addition?

As proven by this thread, no one has the inside track - so why ask?What is the point of this xxxxxxx* post? The original post in this thread was a simple question that was and continues to be of ongoing interest to many, as proven by the many posts it has generated for two and a half years now. It's entirely appropriate discussion for a board of this type to share ideas about what new HD channels are out there, speculate and share rumors about what ones may be coming soon to Comcast, etc. As Rich N. points out, sometimes we do get some insights from people "in the know" on these boards. If it's not something you're interested in, I suggest you move on.

* edited to redact the word "asinine" (meaning "silly", but upon rereading it I fear it may be considered insulting, which was not my intent.)

Actually, there are people in AVSForum who do have an inside track. But they can't tell us everything they know. But these people do dispense what they can. And I appreciate it.

Thus we know that HDNETs are not imminent, so we can focus on those HD channels that do have some possibility (HGTVHD, FOODHD) and follow the rollouts of those channels for which there are contracts (A&EHD) but not much movement.

We've already watched several shows on NGCHD (the "Multiples" was amazing) so benefits are coming, and without an HD Tier.

Rich N.Hmmm, I could have sworn I read in another thread here someone who seems to have some industry insider knowledge saying that the talks over the HDNETs/Comcast had heated up recently? I've not followed this thread though. Have there been actual indications otherwise then?


ron

One thing that is constantly frustrating is to learn about agreements for channels (UHD, A&EHD, NGCHD) that have been in place and are not available on our local Comcast system. As large as the Atlanta market is you would think we would get these channels sooner rather than later but we don't have any of these

Well - Chicago is a bigger market than Atlanta and we don't have any of these channels either. So, I guess we're all playing the waiting game. I wish I could get an answer as to why some systems have these channels and others don't. If there are national contracts in existence and the systems are not bandwidth limited (from what I've been told here anyway), what's the hold-up?

No one can figure out Comcast, and they will never tell us anything about their logic in channel lineups in different cities.

Here in Richmond, we do have UHD, MHD, TNT-HD, Vs/Golf HD, and the two ESPN-HD channels. We have no regional sports network (Comcast SportsNet HD), nor NGHD or A&E-HD.
In Washington, DC, they do have Comcast SportsNet HD, but not ESPN2-HD. Hmmmm.

As a bright spot- In Atlanta, you might not have the new channels, but you do get TBS-HD, which isn't available anywhere else in the country yet.

As a bright spot- In Atlanta, you might not have the new channels, but you do get TBS-HD, which isn't available anywhere else in the country yet.

TBS has an HD channel???

Only in Atlanta. It's currently just a local broadcast channel, and it's carried by Comcast there as WTBS. Last summer, ESPN showed the Braves highlights from TBS in HD. I guess they are experimenting with it locally before it's launched nationally.

Boston lacks AnE-Hd as well as the Verses/Golf HD channel.

I am also waiting for a pair of H channels.

I'll bet you have NESN HD though.....
You get almost all Bruins and Red Sox games, compared to 2 or 3 random NHL games a week. You'll miss the NHL all star game (HD) this year, which stinks, but feel fortunate that you get your regional sports network in HD. Probably the best in the country as far as HD goes, too!

As a bright spot- In Atlanta, you might not have the new channels, but you do get TBS-HD, which isn't available anywhere else in the country yet.

Having TBS-HD in Comcast is somewhat frustrating. The only thing they have in HD at this time are the Braves games, and they could easily be placed in the "BraveVision" channel that shows the TurnerSouth/Sportouth HD games. The channel seems like so much wasted potential (and wasted bandwidth) at this time.

Only in Atlanta. It's currently just a local broadcast channel, and it's carried by Comcast there as WTBS. Last summer, ESPN showed the Braves highlights from TBS in HD. I guess they are experimenting with it locally before it's launched nationally.

I think that WTBS is in the new MLB TV agreement. In that case, perhaps WTBS will go nationwide so that the country won't be missing HD national games.

Please, someone, tell me that MLB didn't give national coverage to a network without HD coverage.

Rich N.

I'll bet you have NESN HD though.....
You get almost all Bruins and Red Sox games, compared to 2 or 3 random NHL games a week. You'll miss the NHL all star game (HD) this year, which stinks, but feel fortunate that you get your regional sports network in HD. Probably the best in the country as far as HD goes, too!

This is true.

They even produce the Celtic home games for the other RSN FSN-NE

In the old days when RSNs were pay channels they were bitter rivals even though most systems offered them both in a package.

Now many FSN-NE highlights has Cortsey NESN on them and the use the FSN-NE feed to show Cetlic highlights on NESN

I STILL WANT those H channels. :)

This is true. I STILL WANT those H channels.

I can totally understand that, but feel fortunate you're not here. Comcast SportsNet (Mid-Atlantic) shows the Capitals and Wizards, but only home games are in HD. CSN-HD has been around for almost 4 years, and it's still not shown on Comcast here because we're about 120 miles away and the HD channel is only distributed terrestrially. MASN (Mid-Atlantic Sports Network) is owned by the Orioles and Nationals, and has the rights to both baseball teams' games. They don't even have an HD channel yet. Comcast is just starting to carry MASN this year after a carriage dispute, so this is the first year we'll be able to see the Nationals at all. Comcast claims the dispute had nothing to do with their ownership of the competing regional sports network, and the only reason it was resolved was because the FCC forced them to have an agreement be in place before Comcast took over their part of Adelphia.

What can I say...things could me much worse.

Study: Cable Will Spend Billions On HDTV

http://www.tvpredictions.com/cablebandwidth011607.htm

(Mentioned in this article is "fiber to the home". I recently asked both a Comcast supervisor and a Comcast engineer when we could expect this [as FIOS is doing], and the response from both was "never").

I think that WTBS is in the new MLB TV agreement. In that case, perhaps WTBS will go nationwide so that the country won't be missing HD national games.

Please, someone, tell me that MLB didn't give national coverage to a network without HD coverage.

Rich N.

Turner announced that TBS HD will launch in September. DirecTV announced that they will carry it.

Turner announced that TBS HD will launch in September. DirecTV announced that they will carry it.

So we can expect it to be added to Comcast sometime (possibly) in '08/'09 and with NO announcement as per usual.

Just remember TBS will only show about 40 Braves games this year. Next year they will show none of the braves games.

I think Comcast will add CNN HD, TBS HD, and Cartoon Network HD this year. Just a guess.

Just remember TBS will only show about 40 Braves games this year. Next year they will show none of the braves games.

I believe the number is 70 this year. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Braves_TBS_Baseball) And 45 for 2008 to 2013 for the WTBS market, and possibly the southeast.

They just added the versus HD channel here in Atlanta. Wow, informercials in digital quality, just what we all wanted. :mad:

So we can expect it to be added to Comcast sometime (possibly) in '08/'09 and with NO announcement.

One hope for it is that Comcast does appreciate the value of HD sports. They got the NBA TV HD package very early (I think in 2004?) and, of course, NFLHD games. So maybe in this case Comcast will come through.


Rich N.

They just added the versus HD channel here in Atlanta. Wow, informercials in digital quality, just what we all wanted. :mad:

tell me about it. i'm in atlanta too and can't believe we still don't have Universal HD, not to mention the many other national HD channels that have gone on air (AE, Nat'l Geo, Food, etc)

oleus

I believe the number is 70 this year. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Braves_TBS_Baseball) And 45 for 2008 to 2013 for the WTBS market, and possibly the southeast.


Yep, your correct.

Study: Cable Will Spend Billions On HDTV

http://www.tvpredictions.com/cablebandwidth011607.htm

(Mentioned in this article is "fiber to the home". I recently asked both a Comcast supervisor and a Comcast engineer when we could expect this [as FIOS is doing], and the response from both was "never").

not enough info to conclude much anything. rather than invest in greater bandwidth, the cable companies could invest in more efficient uses of existing bandwidth (such as different compression scheme or switched digital) and/or just convert all (or most) analog channels to digital. both options provide a far less expensive means to 'free up' bandwidth for what ever generates the most return to stockholders. Verizon is all digital to begin with, which means they can offer the same channels in less bandwidth, but Verizon customers with analog TVs MUST use a STB. I am a relatively new & happy Verizon FiOS customer, but i am not convinced the cable companies should rush into massive outlays to expand bandwidth to the home, at least not right away. there could be cheaper means of delivering enhanced data rates to the home.

theres a Cartoon Network HD channel? wow didnt think i would hear that. Any one have a list or could you make a list of all the new HD channels which you have heard might be available, not just on comcast but also on other providers. So far I have heard of:

Cartoon Network HD
Weather Channel HD
CNN HD
TBS HD
Sci-Fi HD

Also if you could give me the status of when these channels are set to launch (I know about TBS, but I am really curious about weather ch HD)

theres a Cartoon Network HD channel? wow didnt think i would hear that. Any one have a list or could you make a list of all the new HD channels which you have heard might be available, not just on comcast but also on other providers. So far I have heard of:

Cartoon Network HD
Weather Channel HD
CNN HD
TBS HD
Sci-Fi HD

Also if you could give me the status of when these channels are set to launch (I know about TBS, but I am really curious about weather ch HD)

Please see this thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=784284

I noticed that Comcast in Central NJ added two Digital Channels for NJN Public TV, but I have yet to see any HD content on either of them. Anyone know why?

Basically all of the analog channels will have to be gone within 2 years anyway. My cable system has 75 analog channels. From what I understand you can get 3 HD digital stations from each analog channel that will allow for enough bandwidth for 225 HD channels. If I was the cable company I'd start pulling some of the analog channels and moving them to a digital tier. I'd trade analog C-Span2 for 3 new HD channels in a heartbeat :) And then sh!tcan the 3 religious stations and give me 9 more HD channels. :)

They began relocating some the analog channels to digital in the 4th Qtr last year in Central NJ.

Basically all of the analog channels will have to be gone within 2 years anyway. My cable system has 75 analog channels. From what I understand you can get 3 HD digital stations from each analog channel that will allow for enough bandwidth for 225 HD channels. If I was the cable company I'd start pulling some of the analog channels and moving them to a digital tier. I'd trade analog C-Span2 for 3 new HD channels in a heartbeat :) And then sh!tcan the 3 religious stations and give me 9 more HD channels. :)
There is no rule requiring cable to drop analog channels. At least some analog channels on most cable systems will continue to stick around for years to come.

They began relocating some the analog channels to digital in the 4th Qtr last year in Central NJ.

We're all digital here in South Jersey (as of about the 6 months ago).

We're all digital here in South Jersey (as of about the 6 months ago).

All digital in Atlanta area too, IF, and a big IF, you have a digital box. I would guess it's less than half that have these boxes. Otherwise, you have about 70-75 or so analog channels. I have 3 tv's running striclty analog in my home. It's one of the big benefits of cable over satelite, you can hook many tv's in extra rooms etc without having to have the cost of extra boxes.

We're all digital here in South Jersey (as of about the 6 months ago).
maxmam, I believe you're are all ADS in SJ, not digital only. That's what wilwhdtv was referring to when he said "relocating some analogs". Those channels are becoming digital-only, freeing up enough bandwidth for +-2-3 HD channels.

Thanks TravelFan1 for putting it better than I did!

There is no rule requiring cable to drop analog channels. At least some analog channels on most cable systems will continue to stick around for years to come.

Doesn't the legislation state that all TV transmissions must be digital by February 2009? Maybe I'm not understanding things right but wouldnt' that imply there would be no analog channels to transmit?

Doesn't the legislation state that all TV transmissions must be digital by February 2009? Maybe I'm not understanding things right but wouldnt' that imply there would be no analog channels to transmit?

This refers to broadcasters not cable networks.

GoIrish

So that cable companies will take a digital signal and convert it to analog and then pass it along as usual? That sucks.

So that cable companies will take a digital signal and convert it to analog and then pass it along as usual? That sucks.
Analog only customers are still about 50% of cable's sub base, analog cable isn't going completely away for quite awhile.

Analog only customers are still about 50% of cable's sub base, analog cable isn't going completely away for quite awhile.
Even amongst digital cable subscribers, many have more TV sets than digital cable boxes (i.e. some of the sets in the house still rely on the analog signal).

True.

maxmam, I believe you're are all ADS in SJ, not digital only. That's what wilwhdtv was referring to when he said "relocating some analogs". Those channels are becoming digital-only, freeing up enough bandwidth for +-2-3 HD channels.

Don't know what you mean by "ADS". :confused: My cable bill a few months back stated that all channels are digital (mine changed over the course of several months prior to that).

Don't know what you mean by "ADS". :confused: My cable bill a few months back stated that all channels are digital (mine changed over the course of several months prior to that).

ADS = Analog Digital Simulcast

They are simulcasting both, so, those folks that have a wire coming out of the wall hooked directly to their old TV will still be able to watch TV because the analog is still there.

Don't know what you mean by "ADS". :confused: My cable bill a few months back stated that all channels are digital (mine changed over the course of several months prior to that).

ADS = All Digital Simulcast. It's a separate channel map that all digital boxes get that provides all channels received in a digital format.

This methodology allows the cable company to deliver an all digital product to that base of customers while still being able to provide analog signals to the unwashed (non-digital hh's).

GoIrish

Thanks guys!

They are 'All-Digital' in the sense that all channels are available in Digital, but not in the sense of all channels being delivered are Digital, as they are not. When they don't have anymore Analog, they will be 'Digital-only'.

What are the chances that COmcast will adopt ADS in all regions?

Versus to Televise Cagefighting

http://www.tvweek.com/news.cms?newsId=11422

Doesn't mention HD though; can we assume?

Well considering the UFC has basically bought the WEC it didn't surprise me to see them get a deal on a channel like versus. A lot of the prior WEC fights have been seen on HDNet and they look phenominal in HD. Cage fighting and HiDef are a natural pairing. In fact, UFC 67 airs February 3rd and will be broadcast in HD for the first time.

They are 'All-Digital' in the sense that all channels are available in Digital, but not in the sense of all channels being delivered are Digital, as they are not. When they don't have anymore Analog, they will be 'Digital-only'.



And by that definition, FIOS and Satellite DBS are not all digital either as they Retransmit Analog Programming received OTA.

Any word on HGTV HD and Food Network HD? Would love to see these two networks on Comcast. I'd also like to see HDNET & HDNET Movies, but that seems like a lost cause on Comcast at least for now. It's a shame.

Have yet to see any HD content on vsGLF besides a hockey game that was on last tuesday. which was also on INHD. Great move comcast.

There is no HD content yet from Golf Channel. The entire Versus HD schedule is at http://www.versus.com/nw/article/view/27854/?tf=nwArticle.tpl

All NHL games including this week's All Star game are in HD. Yes, some games are still on INHD, but all other games will be in HD now too.

I'd much rather have the channel on my cable system and wait for programming to adapt than to not have the channel at all as it's showing HD games I can't see. Even though much of the programming on Comcast SportsNet is not in HD, I can't complain about it because Comcast doesn't show it where I live. Chances are your regional sports network is shown in HD where you live in Pennsylvania, so count your blessings.

Have yet to see any HD content on vsGLF besides a hockey game that was on last tuesday. which was also on INHD. Great move comcast.

The channel has existed for about 18 days, perhaps you should wait until it's at least 22 days old before deciding it will never amount to anything....

GoIrish

Versus/Golf HD just showed up in the on-screen guide here in South Jersey on channel 207.

No all star game in HD in Boston.

No Golf/Verses HD channel yet and we have ADS.

Turn to INHD? Celtics.

That stinks, but the bright side is that you will most likely have Vs/Glf by the time the playoffs roll around. In the meantime, you'll have to settle for the best RSN in the country for HD, carrying Bruins and Red Sox games in HD. For now, I'll watch the All Star game in HD and appreciate it knowing that a much bigger market than mine doesn't have it. :-)

VSGLF (Golf Channel HD / Versus HD) coverage of the PGA Tour Early Rounds in HD, begins this weekend 1/25 & 1/26 with The Buick Invitational. (Saturday & Sunday HD coverage on CBS.)

Versus has also been added to the HD On Demand list (sorry Boston). The NHL content is pretty thin, but they don't have much to put on it as of yet.

Versus has also been added to the HD On Demand list (sorry Boston). The NHL content is pretty thin, but they don't have much to put on it as of yet.

I had Versus HD On Demand last year but nothing now.

I'm actually enjoying the PBR Bull Riding in HD on VS. on the weekends.
Never really followed it all but I've caught myself watching it for the last two weekends now because it's well presented and, well, because it's high-def. The g/f is even enjoying watching it. As gross as it is, it's kind of neat to see details like bull-snot flying everywhere as they're bucking.

As gross as it is, it's kind of neat to see details like bull-snot flying everywhere as they're bucking.

I've always been a fan of flying bull snot myself. Bring it on!

Looks like Comcast might be going the Switched Digital Video route to be able to carry more HD channels. They're already testing it in two markets. More information below.


http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6410009.html?display=Breaking+News

http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcastkiller012507.htm

I see Verses/golf HD in the near future as well. Most likely on channel 865.

Yes we do have Verses HD On Demand

Versus/Golf HD just showed up in the on-screen guide here in South Jersey on channel 207.

And.....now it's gone.

maxman, maybe they're doing some testing before it goes live on 1/31?

maxman, maybe they're doing some testing before it goes live on 1/31?

Probably. They did the same w/MHD, though that station was actually "live"; VS/Golf just had a placeholder and when I changed to the channel it had a "not authorized" message. I'm hoping we'll pick up National Geographic and A&E soon also, as they have been on other Comcast systems for about a month now.

VS/Golf-HD just went live here at midnight. (channel 207 - S. Jersey). No other HD channel additions though...

VS/Golf-HD just went live here at midnight. (S. Jersey). No other HD channel additions though...

same here on CH. 207 here in Central Pa.

Fox Sports Arizona HD has been added to the channel lineup in Tucson by comcast. As of now the channel is just displaying color bars, but hopefully it will go live here soon.

Fox Sports Arizona HD has been added to the channel lineup in Tucson by comcast. As of now the channel is just displaying color bars, but hopefully it will go live here soon.

They will always display color bars unless they are broadcasting an actual HD event. I've had FoxSports Pittsburgh in HD for about 8 months and they rarely show any HD content. They show the Pens in HD sometimes and they showed 1 college football game per week in HD. Other than that there is not much content. In fact, ever since I got FoxSportsHD there has yet to be any information at all in the program guide for that channel. Almost every time I turn it on its color bars.

No word on BVerses/Golf or AnE in Boston.

same here on CH. 207 here in Central Pa.


also Fox Reality Ch. on central pA comcast CH 108 was added Jan 22 2007

Versus/Golf HD and Fox Sports Detroit HD are due to be up and running on Feb 7, in Western Michigan - Ch 207 and 201 respectfully. Great News !!

scanpa, any word on when NGC-HD might be added to Central/SE PA?

Versus/Golf HD and Fox Sports Detroit HD are due to be up and running on Feb 7, in Western Michigan - Ch 207 and 201 respectfully. Great News !!

Same thing for Mid-michigan/Lansing :)

I got it on channel 207 today as well.

STILL NO UNIVERSAL HD WTF!!!!!!

MAYBE April in Boston (if then) :(

Edit: April came early.

Okay, I have offically gotten everything I've asked for. Comcast is now showing a regional sports network (Comcast SportsNet) in HD on channel 251. MASN is our other regional sports network, but they won't be doing any HD this year since the channel is fairly new. It looks like Comcast is starting to recognize that there are sports fans in mid sized cities like here and in Lansing!

Also NGHD is now on 224 in Richmond.

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA, CMCSK) today reported results for the quarter and the year ended December 31, 2006. The following table highlights financial and operational results (dollars in millions, except per share amounts; units in thousands):


Growth
Consolidated 4Q06 2006 Quarter Year
Revenue $7,031 $24,966 30% 18%
Operating Cash Flow(1) $2,594 $9,442 30% 19%
Operating Income(1) $1,218 $4,619 43% 31%
Earnings per Share(1) $0.18 $1.19 200% 183%

Pro Forma Cable(2)
Revenue $6,894 $26,339 14% 12%
Operating Cash Flow $2,749 $10,511 17% 15%
Revenue Generating Unit Additions 1,632 5,026 77% 69%

In Montgomery County, MD, Comcast uses 229 for "HD Special Events." Thus far, only NFL Network live games and a few, but not all, of the (outstanding) "America's Game" series have been shown there. The rest of the time is a graphic but no programming. I don't understand why they don't use the space for other programming. Is this happening in other Comcast jurisdictions?

Comcast Nashville doesn't have a special events channel or a RSN in HD.
About a week before the all star break they started showing Predators games in HD from Fox Sports South by preempting InHD programming. The NFL Network and Vs. NHL games are also airing on InHD here.

No NFL HD here since their games ended.

Central NJ got Versus yesterday also on ch 207

Nashville has Vs./Golf also, but the NHL games are still being shown on InHD as well.

we get the same thing in comcast seattle..how hideous...we get nhl hd same game on channel 665 golf/vs and on 664 iNHD. Does comcast not know that they now offer Vs?

Comcast in the Boston Area just added Versus/Golf in HD on channel 848.

we get the same thing in comcast seattle..how hideous...we get nhl hd same game on channel 665 golf/vs and on 664 iNHD. Does comcast not know that they now offer Vs?

It will stay that way until comcast has vsglf rolled out to their entire customer base. you'll just get more hockey on vsglf where inhd only has one game a week and sometimes it is taped delayed if nbatv is on.

we get the same thing in comcast seattle..how hideous...we get nhl hd same game on channel 665 golf/vs and on 664 iNHD. Does comcast not know that they now offer Vs?

I'm going to guess that they will simulcast those games until Golf/Versus is turned on in every region. They might offer you Golf /Versus at this time, as they do me, but not everyone has it yet.

Comcast Nashville doesn't have a special events channel or a RSN in HD.
About a week before the all star break they started showing Predators games in HD from Fox Sports South by preempting InHD programming. The NFL Network and Vs. NHL games are also airing on InHD here.

Comcast SportsNet Washington HD is mostly filler and paid programming that isn't HD, so you aren't missing anything. The games are apparently the only thing FSN is showing in your area in HD, no you aren't missing out on a great channel either. FSN most likely made a deal with Comcast there to show the games until a 24 hour FSN-HD exists.

Is this the first year they've shown Predators games in HD? I don't remember hearing Pete & Terry talking about it until this year.

Okay, I have offically gotten everything I've asked for.

Dang it, should have asked for more in that case. :D

In Montgomery County, MD, Comcast uses 229 for "HD Special Events." Thus far, only NFL Network live games and a few, but not all, of the (outstanding) "America's Game" series have been shown there. The rest of the time is a graphic but no programming. I don't understand why they don't use the space for other programming. Is this happening in other Comcast jurisdictions?

I have never seen *anything* on this channel in Alexandria, VA. I, too, wonder why this channel is there. If you are using picture in a picture, and have this channel on the small picture (such as changing channels to get to a real channel), it puts text that it's some boxing matchup. It's said that for over a year now so I think it's a lie. I say get rid of this unused channel and add something else.

Comcast: 'We're Not Worried About DIRECTV HDTV'

The cable op's COO says DIRECTV's plan for 100 national high-def channels will not change their strategy.

By Phillip Swann

Washington, D.C. (February 1, 2007) -- Comcast COO Steve Burke said today that he isn't worried about DIRECTV's plan to offer 100 national HDTV channels by year's end.

The cable operator now offers less than 20 national high-def networks in most markets. But Burke told Wall Street analysts that Comcast will not try to match DIRECTV's HD lineup which is expected to include a large number of variety channels.

"We're not going to radically change our game plan," he said in an investors conference call. "We think we offer a superior HD experience."

Burke instead said Comcast will focus more on high-def movies, sports and local channels, which he said are most popular among his subscribers.

"We'd rather allocate the (extra) bandwidth to what the customer wants," Burke said.


DIRECTV says it plans to launch two satellites this year to expand its high-def capacity. Sea Launch, a consortium company that's scheduled to launch one of the satellites, suffered a setback this week when one of its rockets blew up on the platform. But the satcaster said last night that that would not affect its high-def plans.

http://www.tvpredictions.com/burke020107.htm

I got it on channel 207 today as well.

STILL NO UNIVERSAL HD WTF!!!!!!

I'm also in the Princeton area (Market Fair) and get Universal HD on channel 208. We are served by Comcast East Windsor - Hightstown.

[COLOR=Red][SIZE=4][B]
DIRECTV says it plans to launch two satellites this year to expand its high-def capacity. Sea Launch, a consortium company that's scheduled to launch one of the satellites, suffered a setback this week when one of its rockets blew up on the platform. But the satcaster said last night that that would not affect its high-def plans.

http://www.tvpredictions.com/burke020107.htm

wanna bet :)

I'm sure you'll see a significant delay in the launch date for that one...accident investigations, analysis, replans, retrofits dont happen quickly in the launch business

wanna bet :)

I'm sure you'll see a significant delay in the launch date for that one...accident investigations, analysis, replans, retrofits dont happen quickly in the launch business


I'm with you.

Any word on National Geographic HD or A&E HD in NJ? These are the only two national HD channels that we're missing. I'd especially like Nat Geo HD.

I'm also in the Princeton area (Market Fair) and get Universal HD on channel 208. We are served by Comcast East Windsor - Hightstown.

Na, I'm near Lawrenceville, which is served by Comcast of Trenton. Sucks because BSG and Firefly are the only shows in the entire HD lineup Im interested in.

Any word on National Geographic HD or A&E HD in NJ? These are the only two national HD channels that we're missing. I'd especially like Nat Geo HD.


Good Question, I live in NJ and would like to know about Nat Geo on HD as well.

Why does this thread keep turning into a Local NJ discussion?

and when did comcast ask me if I wanted the same 12 MTV hd programs or the same 4 HD programs on VS? comcast in seattle added those two recently and I think I am a pretty normal tv watcher but those are two not yet ready for HD stations...I wish someshow someone could combine the HD content of NGC, A$E, MTV, VS..All of those four combinved could give us 24 hours of OK HD each day... but comcast adds things with really no HD and say that is what I want

Any word on National Geographic HD or A&E HD in NJ? These are the only two national HD channels that we're missing.

Not really - there are a couple of others such as Food Network & HGTV (both on Dish). No word on the 2 you mentioned, and I don't know why. They have them practically next door and on many of their systems, and I was hoping they'd show up on the 31st along with VS/Golf. An engineer told me bandwidth isn't an issue on my system (S. Jersey), and nobody else at Comcast will tell us anything.

at least you guys get something new, I have 10 HD channels + HD on Demand and I have been stuck because Manassas VA has a 550mhz system. We don't even have Id say 10-12 SD digital channels. I am not a fan of Sat TV So I am waiting for a upgrade hopefully in 2007, or FIOS TV to come to my area whichever bows first. and for one TV with the Limited DIgital package + HDTV and DVR its 70 a month.

VS/Golf HD channel is a turd. What a waste of space. 95% of programming is SD and on top of it all, its filled with such crap such as, Survivor, and lets go fishing with hill billy tom or some ****. lol.

VS/Golf HD channel is a turd. What a waste of space. 95% of programming is SD and on top of it all, its filled with such crap such as, Survivor, and lets go fishing with hill billy tom or some ****. lol.

More like 99%? There's actually golf currently on in HD (I assume it's HD but the on-screen guide doesn't say HD).

VS/Golf HD channel is a turd...lol

As noted by an OLN press release, its programming is "designed to be real, bold and awe-inspiring and supports our mission to bring to life the thrills, challenges and competition in the outdoors that our audience craves." :rolleyes:

Not really - there are a couple of others such as Food Network & HGTV (both on Dish). No word on the 2 you mentioned, and I don't know why. They have them practically next door and on many of their systems, and I was hoping they'd show up on the 31st along with VS/Golf. An engineer told me bandwidth isn't an issue on my system (S. Jersey), and nobody else at Comcast will tell us anything.


I was talking more in line of the Comcast "national" hd channels. National Geographic HD & A&E HD are the only two ones that we don't have, that Comcast has a deal with to carry.
'

I agree with the general consensus on Versus/Golf HD. The only programming so far that I've actually seen in HD, is the golf on right now. Would've preferred Nat Geo HD before this one.

The reason Comcast launched Vs/Glf at the start is because they own the channel. Comcast SportsNet doesn't have a whole lot of HD shows either, but like I said before, I'd rather be able to see the channels while the content is being developed than not have the channels at all.

...I'd rather be able to see the channels while the content is being developed than not have the channels at all.

Agreed 100%. Just wish Comcast would comply as far as several of the other channels go!

Burke instead said Comcast will focus more on high-def movies, sports and local channels, which he said are most popular among his subscribers.

Then where are The Movie Channel and HDNet Movies?

VS/Golf HD channel is a turd. What a waste of space. 95% of programming is SD and on top of it all, its filled with such crap such as, Survivor, and lets go fishing with hill billy tom or some ****. lol.
To each their own. I'd take this channel over NGC/Discovery/MHD/A&E combined.

HD PGA golf almost every week, and NHL playoffs makes this the one of only a very few must have HD channels to me.

Who cares if they only have 10-15 hours of HD a week. If it is 10-15 hours of the stuff I want to see, I'll take that any day over 24 hours/day of HD stuff I don't watch.

Then where are The Movie Channel and HDNet Movies?

Comcast and Marc Cuban don't get along I believe and they probably think their lineup is "good enough"

Then where are The Movie Channel and HDNet Movies?Yes! Give us HDNet and HDNet Movies then! 100% HD with no filler! Just get it done!


ron

Comcast: 'We're Not Worried About DIRECTV HDTV'

The cable op's COO says DIRECTV's plan for 100 national high-def channels will not change their strategy.

By Phillip Swann

Washington, D.C. (February 1, 2007) -- Comcast COO Steve Burke said today that he isn't worried about DIRECTV's plan to offer 100 national HDTV channels by year's end.

The cable operator now offers less than 20 national high-def networks in most markets. But Burke told Wall Street analysts that Comcast will not try to match DIRECTV's HD lineup which is expected to include a large number of variety channels.

"We're not going to radically change our game plan," he said in an investors conference call. "We think we offer a superior HD experience."

Burke instead said Comcast will focus more on high-def movies, sports and local channels, which he said are most popular among his subscribers.

"We'd rather allocate the (extra) bandwidth to what the customer wants," Burke said.


DIRECTV says it plans to launch two satellites this year to expand its high-def capacity. Sea Launch, a consortium company that's scheduled to launch one of the satellites, suffered a setback this week when one of its rockets blew up on the platform. But the satcaster said last night that that would not affect its high-def plans.

http://www.tvpredictions.com/burke020107.htm

There's a little bit more here:

Despite the reluctance to match DIRECTV channel for channel, Comcast CEO Brian Roberts did say the cable operators would increase spending on high-def services in 2007.

Burke also said today that he's not concerned that CBS and some broadcast groups such as Sinclair, Belo and LIN TV are demanding fees to carry their high-def channels. To date, Comcast and other cable operators have agreed to buy advertising space rather than give cash for a local station's signals.

"We would assume that the current arrangements would continue until proven otherwise," said Burke.
_____

"We're not going to radically change our game plan,"

...so don't expect very many new HD channels in 2007?

"Comcast will focus more on high-def movies, sports and local channels, which he said are most popular among his subscribers."

...in other words, expect HD sports channels and InDemand/OnDemand HD movies?

"We'd rather allocate the (extra) bandwidth to what the customer wants,"

...they've never asked me what I want; anybody here ever been surveyed by Comcast about what they want?

"Despite the reluctance to match DIRECTV channel for channel, Comcast CEO Brian Roberts did say the cable operators would increase spending on high-def services in 2007."

...Switched Digital Video and more InDemand/OnDemand?

Then where are The Movie Channel and HDNet Movies?

HDNet is the apparent negotiation stalemate. The Movie Channel is simply low viewership. It has always been the least subscribed to movie service and probably doesn't warrant committing bandwidth to at this time.

Before someone says, "well if they added it then people would subscribe to it", I'm talking 10 plus years of trend data as the lowest interest premium service.

GoIrish

Is this the first year they've shown Predators games in HD? I don't remember hearing Pete & Terry talking about it until this year.

Yeah the first HD game was the Red Wings - Preds game a few days before the all star break.

Comcast and Marc Cuban don't get along I believe and they probably think their lineup is "good enough"

I mentioned the cscoop onm Why HDNet is not on comcast

a) Cuban wants a per subscriber fee.

b) Comcast dosen't want an HD only tier

c) Cuban dosen't have anything else to offer to comcast.

HDNet is the apparent negotiation stalemate. The Movie Channel is simply low viewership. It has always been the least subscribed to movie service and probably doesn't warrant committing bandwidth to at this time.

GoIrish

Then where are they planning on getting these new "high-def movies"?

And how many channels are left to add that show sports (other than HDNet)?

"We'd rather allocate the (extra) bandwidth to what the customer wants," Burke said.

So customers don't want the HD versions of the so-called "variety channels" they currently receive in SD? They will be hard pressed to come up with 32 to 35 total channels with this strategy, assuming they haven't abandoned that goal.

As previously mentioned VS/GOLF just was added in Boston. I checked a couple of Versus programs, and here's what I don't get. Both of them, though SD, were shot in widescreen (which means the SD channel must be showing them letterboxed). But the HD channel shows them pillarboxed instead of using the full screen. Why not show your Widescreen SD using the full screen, like PBS does?

"We'd rather allocate the (extra) bandwidth to what the customer wants," ...they've never asked me what I want; anybody here ever been surveyed by Comcast about what they want?Customers are surveyed, yes, but more importantly, Comcast understands what customers want based on customers are willing to pay for. Nothing fosters honesty in customer input like people having to put their money where their mouth is.

Regardless, it is important that folks remember that they're not the only customer any mass-market company has. They can completely and totally miss the boat on what you, personally, want, and still be working towards "what customers want". Most notably, we here on the AVS Forum are a unique group -- a niche market. Our collective preferences likely resemble that of the general public not one bit.

What the hell good is it to add HD channels that broadcast primarily SD?

Crap that golf chanel or whatever they call it now is primarily an SD POS broadcast with a little bit of HD Golf or Sports the rest is Turdvision. Bravo to CBS HD as they are committed to all Golf Tournaments being in true HD in 2007 and my CBS HD is Primo in Primetime.

If Comcast is so tight with bandwidth why waste it on crapola HD Channels that aren't truly matured HD Channels or the Rerun Channel they Call MHD - nice looking HD but hell How many times can they rerun the same friggin concerts? Three months straight of the same content on MHD it's like viewing the HD Loops in the stores at least TNT has a huge library of HD material but these pathetic channels and with no HGTV, Comedy Central, or others how can they call this rerun crap or pushing up primarily SD content call a legit HD Channel?

For Channels that are not fully HD Mature they need to be "ON DEMAND" selections rather than wasting that bandwidth. BS Comcast gets to brag they add a channel that is truly 20% HD and 80% SD letterboxed crapvision-who do they think they are fooling - any of us with 1:1 panels doing 1080 native can easily differentiate and it's no wonder that new HDTV owners wonder why they see a crap picture on what they are advertising as an HD channel - that is simply misrepresentation - No channel should be provided the space without a primary HD Content Source otherwise it screws us the subscribers. :mad:

Then where are they planning on getting these new "high-def movies"?

And how many channels are left to add that show sports (other than HDNet)?



So customers don't want the HD versions of the so-called "variety channels" they currently receive in SD? They will be hard pressed to come up with 32 to 35 total channels with this strategy, assuming they haven't abandoned that goal.

For movies, one venue is the HD On Demand content. 100 hours is a pretty decent start and I believe it is just a start. I think that we will continue to see that segment grow through the year.

For Sports, VS/Golf is certainly an example of that.

Overall you're taking this one comment, responding to a specific question of a reporter, and assuming it replaces those made recently by Comcast, it doesn't.

Sports and movies have driven people to buy HD sets. Saying the company wants to continue to grow those market segments seems logical. It doesn't though say they will automatically stop what they had stated last Fall about driving fairly significant growth in HD content overall in '07.

Off topic; have you made the plunge for HDDVD or Blu Ray yet ? Interested in your feedback if you have.

GoIrish

If Comcast is so tight with bandwidth why waste it on crapola HD Channels that aren't truly matured HD Channels or the Rerun Channel they Call MHD - nice looking HD but hell How many times can they rerun the same friggin concerts?Because that's what their customers want. Customers are idiots, aren't they? :rolleyes:

For movies, one venue is the HD On Demand content. 100 hours is a pretty decent start and I believe it is just a start. I think that we will continue to see that segment grow through the year.

For Sports, VS/Golf is certainly an example of that.

Overall you're taking this one comment, responding to a specific question of a reporter, and assuming it replaces those made recently by Comcast, it doesn't.

Sports and movies have driven people to buy HD sets. Saying the company wants to continue to grow those market segments seems logical. It doesn't though say they will automatically stop what they had stated last Fall about driving fairly significant growth in HD content overall in '07.

Off topic; have you made the plunge for HDDVD or Blu Ray yet ? Interested in your feedback if you have.

GoIrish

I think I will wait until there is an economical but effective dual player so I can survive Blu-Ray, HD-DVD war. They seem to be on the horizon. And my understanding is that Blu-Ray can't play SD DVDs.

Off-topic, in the Baltimore area my big HD disappointment is that the Orioles will not be on CSN and we will lose all the HD games. MASN won't give us HD games this year. MASN claims HD is in its future, but we had it with CSN. I guess when that happens we can see if Comcast will pick them up.

I do expect Comcast to provide additional HD channels, like FOODHD and HGTVHD (hopefully in 2007?), and further distribute A&EHD. Comcast is addressing HD, just not in the numbers that D* claims it will have.

BTW, I agree with some others in that having an HD channel with limited HD content is better than not having it because when content increases we won't need to berate Comcast for not adding it. For me, VS/Golf is not a highly-desired channel, but you can see that others disagree. MHD also is in that category (who knows, someday they may actually have someone on I would like.) You can't please everybody.

Rich N.

For movies, one venue is the HD On Demand content. 100 hours is a pretty decent start and I believe it is just a start. I think that we will continue to see that segment grow through the year.

For Sports, VS/Golf is certainly an example of that.

Overall you're taking this one comment, responding to a specific question of a reporter, and assuming it replaces those made recently by Comcast, it doesn't.

Sports and movies have driven people to buy HD sets. Saying the company wants to continue to grow those market segments seems logical. It doesn't though say they will automatically stop what they had stated last Fall about driving fairly significant growth in HD content overall in '07.

Off topic; have you made the plunge for HDDVD or Blu Ray yet ? Interested in your feedback if you have.

GoIrish

Maybe I'm misinterpreting this part of the article:

Burke instead said Comcast will focus more on high-def movies, sports and local channels, which he said are most popular among his subscribers.

Sounds to me like they are not concerned with adding many of the channels that D* will add. And there aren't many sports channels left.

As for HD-DVD or Blu-ray, I'm waiting to see how things shake out. If Universal would just support Blu-ray I would probably take the plunge.

... And my understanding is that Blu-Ray can't play SD DVDs. ...Then you have misunderstood. I don't have either one yet, but Blu-ray players do handle SD DVDs. But at least some of them won't play audio CDs.

Off-topic, in the Baltimore area my big HD disappointment is that the Orioles will not be on CSN and we will lose all the HD games. MASN won't give us HD games this year. MASN claims HD is in its future, but we had it with CSN. I guess when that happens we can see if Comcast will pick them up.


If MASN were to launch an HD channel in the spring, people on this board would complain about it because 100% of it's content wasn't HD.

Realistically, I don't think MASN is ready for HD since they are still getting the rest of their programming in place. Last year at this time, there was no programming. They only showed Nationals games in the summer with a black screen the rest of the time. I think that besides that, they are still concentrating on getting wider distribution before going HD. Their area covers all of North Carolina, and they have no coverage there other than the Outer Banks. The hardest part is done since they have a deal with Comcast, but now they need to convince Time Warner that they should carry the games.

Last year, I didn't get CSN-HD, and had no chance of getting MASN. Now, CSN-HD has arrived, and MASN will be here by April. At this point, I'm pretty happy with that.

What's MASN???

What's MASN???
Mid Atlantic Sports Network

Home of the Nationals and Orioles cable coverage.

If MASN were to launch an HD channel in the spring, people on this board would complain about it because 100% of it's content wasn't HD.

Realistically, I don't think MASN is ready for HD since they are still getting the rest of their programming in place. Last year at this time, there was no programming. They only showed Nationals games in the summer with a black screen the rest of the time. I think that besides that, they are still concentrating on getting wider distribution before going HD. Their area covers all of North Carolina, and they have no coverage there other than the Outer Banks. The hardest part is done since they have a deal with Comcast, but now they need to convince Time Warner that they should carry the games.

Last year, I didn't get CSN-HD, and had no chance of getting MASN. Now, CSN-HD has arrived, and MASN will be here by April. At this point, I'm pretty happy with that.


For those of us that already had CSNHD (the majority of the mid atlantic area) and had probably more than 70 Orioles HD games last year, the spectre of zero this year with MASN isn't too great. MASN has been preparing for this for three years and this is their second season covering baseball.

Their current lack of a committment to HD I think is simply financial. I'm sure it won't last forever, but I hope we're not waiting until '08.

GoIrish

Actually, thy have covered baseball for several years. MASN used to be O's TV when it did over the air broadcasts of Orioles games. The cable channel started up when they were awarded the rights to Nationals games in 2005, therefore giving the Nationals a 10% stake in the network which was previously only owned by the Orioles. MASN continued to show O's games on over the air stations until 2006.

If MASN isn't ready to start an HD channel, it would be really nice for the viewers if they would start a partnership with CSN to show some HD MASN games on CSNHD. Judging from the bickering over the last two years, I don't see that happening anytime soon.

When can we expect to see the NFL Network HD channel broadcast full-time? Also still hoping that HDNet and HDNet Movies will come on board as well.

Comcast is still in court with the NFL Network because they want to show it on the sports tier, and the network wants it on a basic tier. The NFL Network raised its fee, and Comcast doesn't want to pass along the costs to everyone. Showing the 8 NFL Network games in HD on Comcast was probably part of a previous deal.
As long as the fight continues, Comcast cannot add NFL Network HD, but when it's resolved, I would guess the HD channel would be part of the deal.

I know nothing about Comcast making any deals with HDNet other than the rumors I've read here.

Bob are you sure about that, because I didn't think Comcast was in a dispute with the NFL. I have the Sports Tier on Comcast and receive the NFL Network. Now I know the one reason why MLB decided to go with DirecTV was because DirecTV is willing to put the The Baseball Channel on a basic tier, whereas InDemand (representing cable companies in the negotiations) wouldn't do the same for the cable companies. Perhaps the NFL and Comcast are still ironing out some last minute details for the network and after its all resolved we'll see the NFL Network HD channel on Comcast.