Comcast HDTV [Text View] - Page 16

jwebb1970

09-10-07, 01:24 PM

Dish Network have added two HD channels this week-History Channel & the Big Ten Network-giving them a total of 40 national HD channels, and that's not including the local channels. I recently spoke to a Comcast service rep and she told me that the following HD channels will not be added by the end of the month-History Channel, Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, TBS, TLC, Big Ten Network, Science Channel, etc. This is why I am cancelling my service with Comcast.

I'm almost with you on that, too.

E*'s only holdup for me is the lack of HD locals over sat (Fresno, CA market). OTA for HD/digital is useless where I live (too many obstructions/spotty signal during bad weather) and network primetime HD makes up the vast majority of TV watching/DVR-ing during the regular season. It's Comcast's relatively rock solid HD locals that keeps me tied to cable for now.

D* carries my HD locals via sat, but I much prefer E* for their current (not proposed) HD lineup, some OnDemand stuff and the "free" HDDVR (D* still wants $200 to lease theirs).

JayMan007

09-10-07, 02:06 PM

NFL-HD added to Comcast -Richmond yesterday (9/6).

Food-HD & HGTV-HD added to Comcast-Richmond today (9/10).

sansri88

09-10-07, 04:57 PM

Food-HD & HGTV-HD added to Comcast-Richmond today (9/10).

Did you guys get notice of the second addition today? Or was it randomly put? Because Comcast here has to tell us 1 day before the change for additions, so there's a chance that after Oct. 9th we may get these too.

Marcus Carr

09-10-07, 05:54 PM

It's finally up:

http://hidefhigh.com/

Not too exciting, but it does mention HD Lite.:)

Marcus Carr

09-10-07, 06:29 PM

Comcast Midwest spokesman Jeromy Espy rues his comment to the Lansing State Journal indicating his bosses could be flexible with the Big Ten Network. Nothing has changed and it's still sports tier or bust, Espy tells the Detroit Free Press. The PA-based Susquehanna Valley Center for Public Policy released a policy paper last week saying Comcast shouldn't be coerced into offering BTN on its basic cable package.

http://www.cable360.net/technology/news/25526.html

maxman

09-10-07, 08:23 PM

It's finally up:

http://hidefhigh.com/

And it totally sucks as well!

JayMan007

09-10-07, 09:01 PM

Did you guys get notice of the second addition today? Or was it randomly put? Because Comcast here has to tell us 1 day before the change for additions, so there's a chance that after Oct. 9th we may get these too.

We did not get a notice...
I just checked, and now Food-HD has been taken off. So, they must be testing... or teasing.

GR1MM

09-11-07, 07:40 AM

I`m about to cancel Comcast and get Verizon Fios.Fios has about 10 more HD channels than Comcast,and it sucks that Comcast might only be adding 1 more HD channel this year.Is there a difference in PQ,etc. between using cable and fiber optic??? If it`s as good as they say more people should be dumping Comcast for Fios.

JimboG

09-11-07, 09:22 AM

And it totally sucks as well!

Looks like Comcast will have to update Hi Def High within a couple weeks of launching it. Click on "content" for some astounding half-truths.

"Comcast has tons more HD channels than satellite?" I'm pretty sure that Dish has more channels than Comcast and D* is about to blow the doors off of Comcast. Sure, they then have the disingenous comment that "Comcast has about 11 times as many 'channels' when you count on demand". Utter garbage. How about launching more full time HD channels that I can record on my S3 Tivo?

It's time for Comcast to put up or shut up.:mad:

TravelFan1

09-11-07, 09:23 AM

GR1, from the Fios x Comcast boards in the Internet, it seems to me that Vz and Comcast, as far as HD picture quality goes, are the same quality. The SD picture, however, is light years better with Fios.

JimboG

09-11-07, 09:55 AM

I love it. I clicked on "Price" and the bird said "Hold onto your wallet". Given my experience with Comcast's prices, this may be the funniest comment on Hi Def High.

All right, I went through each of the genre's listed under the "Content" section of Hi Def High. From what I can tell, their exclusive content falls into three areas: Comcast Channel 1 (on demand), FearNet (on demand), and Music Choice (music videos on demand?).

Otherwise, the content that Comcast listed seems to make a decent argument for over the air HDTV. If you want more HD content, it seems unclear why you would go with Comcast rather than E* or D*. Here's what's listed under each genre, starting with cable/satellite programming and then moving onto OTA programming. If anyone is feeling industrious, feel free to add actual or announced programming from E* and D* in each of these genres.

Racing
ESPN
TNT
ABC
Fox

Football
ESPN
CBS
Fox
NBC

Sci Fi
"Comcast Channel 1"
Cinemax
Showtime
Starz

Music
Music Choice
MHD

Baseball
ESPN
ESPN2
FSN (but not HD in my neighborhood??)
Fox

Horror
FearNet
Cinemax
Starz

Nature
Mojo (really??)
Discovery (I think they mean HD Theater, but they use the logo for the Discovery Channel. Comcast's satellite competitors will have the main Discovery Channel and several other Discovery channels in HD by the end of this month.)
PBS

Action
HBO
Showtime
Starz

Comedy
"Comcast Channel 1"

I really don't get it. D* has announced plans to carry several different channels from Discovery, HBO, Showtime and Starz. Why would Comcast want to highlight that they only offer a fraction of what the satellite providers currently offer (E*) or will offer by the end of the year (D*)?:confused:

maxman

09-11-07, 05:12 PM

I love it. I clicked on "Price" and the bird said "Hold onto your wallet". Given my experience with Comcast's prices, this may be the funniest comment on Hi Def High.

I think they already changed it. Now you see the bird talk but can't hear what was probably that part (guess they "silenced" it).

donn35

09-12-07, 03:55 AM

bicker1

09-12-07, 06:11 AM

I think it more likely that the cable systems will simply add enough HD channels to satisfy the masses, muting the effect of DirecTV's efforts this fall.

hdtvjunkie247

09-12-07, 08:31 AM

I think it more likely that the cable systems will simply add enough HD channels to satisfy the masses, muting the effect of DirecTV's efforts this fall.

As long as Comcast adds some of the more popular ones (TBS HD, USA HD etc.), I'll be happy. Sure I'd also love to have HDNET and HDNET Movies, but I don't think that there is anything new on that front.

raidbuck

09-12-07, 09:49 AM

The question is "How much HD do these new channels actually carry?".

TBS-HD has a terrible lineup of shows and practically no HD except the MLB playoffs.

A&E HD has good shows, but a lot is still SD. I think some American Justice is now starting in HD, as well as The First 48. Hopefully Cold Case Files will also become HD.

HGTVHD has all HD, but almost no shows (basically 3-5 HD shows - most of them 1/2 hour - a day repeated in a loop each week, more repeats than you can believe - and the guide often doesn't tell you the show so we keep recording the same shows over and over again).

How much HD will the Discovery suite of channels actually have, and what is the future of DHDT? (we love the fact that there is only one break after the first 2 minutes)?

I do hope we get HistoryHD soon though.

I have no doubt that satellite will have more HD than Comcast (only one system to maintain), so Comcast will need to have the biggies and hope that is enough. I do disagree with Comcast using "channels" to describe On Demand options. That should be beneath them (I hope).

Rich N.

JDLIVE

09-12-07, 12:36 PM

hdtvjunkie247

09-12-07, 01:02 PM

Next new HD channels for Philly are coming around September 25.

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r19059659-5-New-HD-Channels-coming-to-Philly

210- National Geographic HD
211- A&E HD
213- HGTV HD
216- Food HD
218- NFL Network HD

Plus two new SD channels in WE (Ch. 117) and Fuse (Ch.148).

Bill Geiger

09-12-07, 01:49 PM

bicker1

09-12-07, 05:16 PM

Don't forget F/X HD. I think there are a handful that if they provide those, they'll keep some very large percentage of their customers happy, and the very small percentage that won't be perhaps represents less revenue than the cost of making them happy. The 80/20 rule rides again.

bicker1

09-12-07, 05:18 PM

The question is "How much HD do these new channels actually carry?".Indeed, and many of the scores of HD channels DirecTV is promising to add this Fall have lots of HD, but for most people it's basically lots of crap. >shrug<

TBS-HD has a terrible lineup of shows and practically no HD except the MLB playoffs.I don't watch it, but is My Boys in HD?

A&E HD has good shows, but a lot is still SD.AMC HD would have Mad Men, but that's still just one show. Lifetime HD might have a few original series in HD.

Marcus Carr

09-12-07, 06:12 PM

Coming to Baltimore on 10/1 as reported in the local thread.

We're also getting Food Network HD that day.

More channels coming before the end of the year.

(Thanks to GoIrish)

nakedeye

09-12-07, 08:28 PM

Mcees4life

09-13-07, 06:30 AM

Comcast is launching A&E HD on 9/18 here in the District.........I just got the message from my HD converter box this morning when i woke up.

We're also getting the Pentagon channel on digital cable

maxman

09-13-07, 07:54 AM

Here's the next HD channel(s) for DirecTV; so what's the next HD channel for Comcast?

http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/contentPageNR.jsp?assetId=P4360044

Snagglepuss

09-13-07, 11:40 AM

If I were the president of a cable/satellite TV network, I would not start an HD channel or make HD programming until I knew cable/satellite had the ability to carry the channel. It would not make economic sense.

Now that D* can broadcast so much HD, however, and perhaps E within the year, I think the programming will be plentiful.

Funny thing is, Comcast tends to use the TV side of its operation as a way to sell Internet and digital telephone service. An article in the Rocky Mountain News earlier this year said their cable viewership keeps sinking while Internet and phone keeps rising. They find the tradeoff acceptable because the latter two are more profitable.

Even so, to keep that pipeline into our houses, they need to keep the TV side going. Consequently, Comcast had better get its act together or it may go the way of the horse and buggy.

Indeed, and many of the scores of HD channels DirecTV is promising to add this Fall have lots of HD, but for most people it's basically lots of crap. >shrug<

I don't watch it, but is My Boys in HD?

AMC HD would have Mad Men, but that's still just one show. Lifetime HD might have a few original series in HD.

QZ1

09-13-07, 02:25 PM

Falls on floor...
Seeing as you are also on the Willow Grove system, do you, by any chance, not have Expanded service?

If so, did you get a letter saying it will now be required to get the non-premium 'cable' HD channels? (They list them, they are all in Digital Classic.)

Some other nearby areas subs got such a letter, but nobody in WG has yet mentioned this; I don't if this area isn't having this requrement or if the letter got lost.

Any other areas around the US get such a letter?

(I know some areas already had this reqiurement.)

scitek

09-13-07, 04:32 PM

Where do I go to find out what channels are being added to my area and when? I'm wondering if CNNHD and the NFL Network are going to be added anytime soon.

blitzen102

09-13-07, 04:50 PM

Where do I go to find out what channels are being added to my area and when? I'm wondering if CNNHD and the NFL Network are going to be added anytime soon.

Here.

Or your local thread http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=45 for NFL Network HD, since most Comcast subscribers have it already.

nakedeye

09-13-07, 06:03 PM

Seeing as you are also on the Willow Grove system, do you, by any chance, not have Expanded service?

If so, did you get a letter saying it will now be required to get the non-premium 'cable' HD channels? (They list them, they are all in Digital Classic.)

Some other nearby areas subs got such a letter, but nobody in WG has yet mentioned this; I don't if this area isn't having this requrement or if the letter got lost.

Any other areas around the US get such a letter?

(I know some areas already had this reqiurement.)

I have the 129 triple play package so I don't htink it applies to me. sorry.

maxman

09-13-07, 08:02 PM

EchoStar: 70 HDTV Channels!

http://www.tvpredictions.com/echo70091307.htm

Uh...what's the next HD channel for Comcast?

maxman

09-13-07, 08:04 PM

Will Comcast Meet Its HD Forecast?

http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcastforecast091307.htm

maxman

09-13-07, 08:10 PM

Where do I go to find out what channels are being added...

I don't think there are any. Seriously. The silence from Comcast is deafening.

scitek

09-13-07, 08:22 PM

I don't think there are any. Seriously. The silence from Comcast is deafening.

We've gotten FoodHD and HGTVHD in the past month in my area, but they are black most of the time and rarely ever come in. TBS has had a simulcasted HD station here for months now and started showing Braves games in HD on Sep. 1st, but everything else is still in 4:3 SD. I'm starting to wonder when we'll catch up with the other markets, we still don't even have any HD OnDemand aside from PPV. I'd like for what I have to actually show up on my TV once in a while, too, that's be a good start.

ABHD

09-13-07, 08:23 PM

Here.

Or your local thread http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=45 for NFL Network HD, since most Comcast subscribers have it already.

Is this true? most subscribers have NFL-HD already? In Seattle they haven't added anything since UHD,MHD, and Versus... that was like a miricle, especially since when I emailed them about UHD, they said they were debating on whether to add that channel or not. That was my first and only experience of Comcast every adding HD. That was at the end of Dec 2006. And when I first called Comcast earlier in Jan 2006 about HD service the person told me they were going to add a dozen or so HD channels by the end of 2006.... lies:p

It's exciting to read that a lot of areas are getting new HD on Comcast but really frustrating that they are so slow at adding it here. When I email them about it, I get no response back. In January we were told NGHD would be coming soon... it's now September and yet again nothing...just a new guide that everyone in the forums is complaining about. Latest rumor I've read is we may... may get 2 to 3 HD channels added at the end of this year which probably means the end of December again. To top it off, Clark county wa, a rural area about 100 miles south of Seattle already has NGHD and will get 6 more HD's added soon.

Overall I've been happy with my Comcast service, but now I'm starting to get impatient about the slow process of upgrades and the lack of HD being added in our area compaired to other regions. I know there are areas much worse off than we are, but it seems most Comcast areas are now offering or will soon offer 25 or so HD channels. I'm at the point that I'm really considering checking out D* in the next month or so, or FiosTV when that becomes available in our area. Emailing and requesting more HD doesn't seem to work, but maybe if people in our area finally get some other options to turn too, they will get start making HD more of a priority.

maxman

09-13-07, 08:29 PM

It's exciting to read that a lot of areas are getting new HD on Comcast but really frustrating that they are so slow at adding it here. When I email them about it, I get no response back.

Here's the response you'd get (I've gotten it over and over, so you can have mine):

Thank you for contacting Comcast Cable.

Comcast is committed to deploying HDTV service. We are working to
provide as many high definition channel broadcasters as possible. Here
are some of the factors involved with expanding our high definition
lineup:

-the negotiation and contract process required to obtain the rights to
carry a specific high definition broadcast.

-the increased bandwidth resources which are required

-the relatively low number of subscribers (currently only a small
minority of customers have high definition compatible television sets)

We will continue to explore additional HD programming opportunities as
more content providers make plans to offer their programming in HD
format.

We appreciate the fact that you took the time to let us know what is
important to you. We hope to expand our high definition channel lineup
as fast as we can. Unfortunately we are unable to provide specific
details regarding the launch of new channels at this time, please keep
an eye on your monthly billing statement as the announcement of any channel additions will appear on those statements.

sansri88

09-13-07, 08:31 PM

Well, I was told that we would get up to 8 HD channels (probably 6 by December, and 2 more in January) by the end of this year/January 2008. So far we're going to get 2 on or after October 9th, with TBS-HD a possibility as well. My contacts are pretty high up in Comcast of NJ and they've been forthcoming about when changes will happen to our lineup, but they can't tell me what channels are going to be added.

maxman

09-13-07, 08:33 PM

maxman: that's a generic response, they send that out to everyone that asks about HD. I've gotten that same letter more than once. Now for questions I email two contacts I found inside Comcast of NJ. They've been forthcoming about when changes will happen to our lineup, but they can't tell me what channels are going to be added.

I know. Care to share the "when" they happened to mention? :)

Even then, I'm in the South Jersey system, so...

sansri88

09-13-07, 08:34 PM

I know. Care to share the "when" they happened to mention? :)

Check the edited message. December 2007 to January 2008.

sansri88

09-13-07, 08:42 PM

I know. Care to share the "when" they happened to mention? :)

Even then, I'm in the South Jersey system, so...

Ahh yeah my contact only tells me stuff concerning North Jersey because that's all she knows about.

ghudson666

09-13-07, 09:51 PM

maxman

09-13-07, 10:49 PM

Deal with Comcast unlikely, exec says:

http://media.www.michigandaily.com/media/storage/paper851/news/2007/09/13/AnnArbor/Deal-With.Comcast.Unlikely.Exec.Says-2966468.shtml

sansri88

09-13-07, 11:08 PM

Deal with Comcast unlikely, exec says:

http://media.www.michigandaily.com/media/storage/paper851/news/2007/09/13/AnnArbor/Deal-With.Comcast.Unlikely.Exec.Says-2966468.shtml

That's fine with me, I don't want my bill going up, it's high enough as it is.

Plus, I don't watch or like any of the Big Ten teams, so why would I want BTN?

renesisX

09-14-07, 01:33 AM

I have noticed that as Comcast keeps putting out more HD channels, the quality is getting worse. It's as if they are running out of bandwidth and they keep trying to squeeze more in.

roachxp

09-14-07, 07:55 AM

That's fine with me, I don't want my bill going up, it's high enough as it is.

Plus, I don't watch or like any of the Big Ten teams, so why would I want BTN?

Don't worry it's free for subs on E*, but come spring 2008 it's gone unless you add the RSN pak that what understand by all the news. I guess BTN will be a local RSN, and an option outside the BTN RSN area.

Marcus Carr

09-14-07, 10:12 AM

michaelk

09-14-07, 11:59 AM

I know it is a bit too early to decide, but how many Comcast, Time Warner, or other cable subscribers have or planning to switch to either Direct TV or Dish Network due to the large capacity of HD channels arriving this fall? Will the cable companies lose more customers as well as money to satellite, or vice versa because of high definition channels.

myself I'm currently OK with the amount of stuff on my cable provider- the new stuff on Directv would be nice BUT the fact that they still dont carry all the locals in HD is a barrier.

I just saw speculation on another forum that when the next bird goes up in like february that Directv will backfill the CW's, my's and PBS's for the markets they have MPEG4 LIL already. If that's the case I might just go back to Directv in the spring.

TravelFan1

09-14-07, 12:36 PM

sansri88

09-14-07, 01:00 PM

Personally, say that Comcast had all the bandwidth in the world. I'd say put Big Ten for the non-Big Ten markets as a-la-carte and leave it to the Big Ten markets to put in some sort of basic package - some basic digital package, I should stress, enough of basic analogs...

Yes! I agree wholeheartedly with you. Give it to the people in the Big 10 states on the lowest DIGITAL tier, and put it a-la-carte in other places like Jersey.

Even if Rutgers goes to the Big 10, not sure if I'd really care any way.

jefbal99

09-14-07, 01:15 PM

sansri, who knows, Big 10 needs an extra team to be able to make a championship game and Rutgers would be a strong candidate, to create a RU x Penn State rivalry..... That said, let's get to that bridge when we get there.

Personally, say that Comcast had all the bandwidth in the world. I'd say put Big Ten for the non-Big Ten markets as a-la-carte and leave it to the Big Ten markets to put in some sort of basic package - some basic digital package, I should stress, enough of basic analogs...

I think Rutgers is too far out of the Midwest to join the Big Ten. I'd see Pitt as the best chance, since ND gets money from the BCS no matter if they play or not. If ND loses that deal, then look for ND to make the jump.

Pitt has a natural rival with Penn State, MSU has been playing them recently, good location for an OSU rivalry too.

As for Comcast, I'll be leaving them as soon as I can compare the new HDs on D* to E*. I like Comcast's service, but I feel that they are being totally hypocritical of the BTN and will never sign carriage.

Props for the BTN for not taking a sports tier in the 8 stage region and costing the customers much more money than $1.10 a month. $5.99 for a sports tier or $1.10 for the channel, huh, whats better for the consumer?

Comcast is so concerned about the customer paying for a channel it doesn't want, why not move all the ESPNs, Versus, The Golf Channel, & Fox Sports Detroit to the sports tier. Take all the crap programming that is forced on me that I don't care about and make a family tier I can opt out of, same thing for a news tier and a music tier. That way I only pay for the channels I want!

Filthy hypocrites!

jwebb1970

09-14-07, 01:39 PM

Where is the HD?

I was watching the Inside the NFL show on HBOHD channel 300 (Comcast in Richmond Virginia area) tonight but the programming is not filmed and/or broadcast in HD. Same thing with the Playbook AFC show on the NFLHD channel 246. The programming is not being broadcast in HD. Every NFL game is broadcast in HD so where are all the analog clips coming from when they show you replays from last weeks game?

I remember the half time show on the NFL HD channel (shown on the INHD channel 226 last year) for the Cowboys vs Falcons game [last year] and even the replays of the first half of Cowboys vs Falcons game that we were watching were shown in crappy analog even though the game was broadcast in HD.

HBO's INSIDE THE NFL (as well as COSTAS NOW, REAL SPORTS W/ B. GUMBEL and REAL TIME W/B. MAHER) is not shot or broadcast in HD. Although the NFL Films clips they use look great in HD when broadcast that way, they won't be on HBO's show since it is not broadcast/taped in HD.

As far as the non-HBO stuff you mention, the lack of HD clips or halftime shows were either a budget choice or a limitation in the sources (replays) at the time.

Just becasue something is aired on an "HD channel" doesn't mean it's automatically going to be shown in HD.

QZ1

09-14-07, 02:21 PM

Comcast has "4.7 million HD customers, roughly 19.5 percent of its total subscribers."

http://www.tvweek.com/news/2007/09/comcast_touts_hd_offerings_via.php

I don't think I've seen a number for HD subscribers before because Comcast usually lumps HD customers and "DVR users" together.

Right, I don't see how they can calculate the number of HD subs in Motorola areas, because few have an HD 'live TV-only' box. So, with Motorola areas offering just an HD DVR for those requesting an 'HD DVR' or just a 'DVR', I see no way for them to differentiate between a sub having both 'DVR' and 'HD' or only 'DVR' (SD).

ABHD

09-14-07, 03:00 PM

Here's the response you'd get (I've gotten it over and over, so you can have mine):

[I]Thank you for contacting Comcast Cable.

Comcast is committed to deploying HDTV service. We are working to
provide as many high definition channel broadcasters as possible. Here
are some of the factors involved with expanding our high definition
lineup:
...

yeah, I stopped emailing the regular comcast request feedback, all you get is an automated response, but I emailed 2 local VP's as well a guy that came around the neighborhood and gave me his card. He's called a Personal Comcast Consultant. But no response from these guys lately...hmm.
When I first emailed them last year they replied saying we'd get MHD and they were still debating on whether to add UHD or not...

My latest email to them stated that while I'm happy with the quality of their service, I'm unhappy with the slow process of adding HD in our area and the fact that other areas always seem to get HD channels up to a year or so earlier than we do. I also mentioned that with D* and FiosTV coming that they will start loosing customers.

This month Comcast is suddenly having a lot of specials in our area, reducing prices now that Fios internet is available in certain areas and D*'s HD additions coming. I'm getting ads in the mail, and I see them on TV as well... I bet I could get a discount on my cable bill if I call and say I'm switching to D*, but I'd much prefer they'd just add the latest HD channels that a lot of other Comcast customers already get.

Sparkman87

09-14-07, 03:53 PM

I think Rutgers is too far out of the Midwest to join the Big Ten. I'd see Pitt as the best chance, since ND gets money from the BCS no matter if they play or not. If ND loses that deal, then look for ND to make the jump.

Pitt has a natural rival with Penn State, MSU has been playing them recently, good location for an OSU rivalry too.

As for Comcast, I'll be leaving them as soon as I can compare the new HDs on D* to E*. I like Comcast's service, but I feel that they are being totally hypocritical of the BTN and will never sign carriage.

Props for the BTN for not taking a sports tier in the 8 stage region and costing the customers much more money than $1.10 a month. $5.99 for a sports tier or $1.10 for the channel, huh, whats better for the consumer?

Comcast is so concerned about the customer paying for a channel it doesn't want, why not move all the ESPNs, Versus, The Golf Channel, & Fox Sports Detroit to the sports tier. Take all the crap programming that is forced on me that I don't care about and make a family tier I can opt out of, same thing for a news tier and a music tier. That way I only pay for the channels I want!

Filthy hypocrites!

Disney would never allow ESPN or ESPN2 in a sports tier, & Comcast certainly isn't going to put one of its owned networks there. As good as a-la-carte or lots of small tiers sounds, the contracts between mosts networks & the cable & satellite companies won't allow most networks to be carried that way.

TravelFan1

09-14-07, 05:31 PM

jefbal99

09-14-07, 05:33 PM

Disney would never allow ESPN or ESPN2 in a sports tier, & Comcast certainly isn't going to put one of its owned networks there. As good as a-la-carte or lots of small tiers sounds, the contracts between mosts networks & the cable & satellite companies won't allow most networks to be carried that way.

i didn't include a ;), sorry i thought the sarcasm was thick enough to get the jist of my point.

I just want Comcast to own up to their stance in the media about this vs. the other BS channels that I have to pay for.

As stated in other threads here, Comcast is asking $2.50 & expanded basic for their new RSN in Portland, OR; then a sliding scale for price and tier the further out into the Pacific NW region.

This is the exact same thing the BTN is doing and I hope all MSOs fight Comcast as they have fought the BTN.

ghudson666

09-14-07, 05:46 PM

This month Comcast is suddenly having a lot of specials in our area, reducing prices now that Fios internet is available in certain areas and D*'s HD additions coming. I'm getting ads in the mail, and I see them on TV as well... I bet I could get a discount on my cable bill if I call and say I'm switching to D*, but I'd much prefer they'd just add the latest HD channels that a lot of other Comcast customers already get.

What kind of deals is Comcast offering in your area?

I played the "I am leaving Comcast for Fios" game with Comcast last month. The best they would do is their standard triply play package [internet, phone, digital cable] for $129 a month [Richmond Virginia area]. I already had all three except now I added the digital channels but my phone package was separate, now all three are on one bill. The extras Comcast tossed in made it worth it to me to also sign a two year contract (I could have only signed a 1 year contract instead). Comcast has not raised their rates in almost two years so I am betting that they will raise their rates and the two year contract will protect me from that. The extras Comcast included were 2 free digital cable boxes, HBO, Showtime, Stars and Encore and I get all that for two years for $129 per month. I already had a HD-DVR [extra $11.95 per month] so that takes care of my HD channels and now I also get the HD channels for the premium movie channels. I added the sports tier for the NFL channel $1.99 per month and I will cancel that after NFL season is over.

I compared Comcast to Verizon Fios and Comcast was a better deal for me with all the extras they throw into their $129 deal. I have too many TV's and the monthly digital box fees from Fios was just too much plus Fios does not include any premium movie channels or digital boxes with their deal.

jefbal99

09-14-07, 05:52 PM

jeff, I know this is off-topic, but say u are a Big 10 commissioner.

You can get NYC metro or Pitt metro. Which one would you rather add to your Conference? Think about it: The PA State U x NJ State U....

I see it and disagree with it. I was out in NJ and NYC this past spring. When I was in NJ and on Rutgers Campus, it had the great feel and atmosphere, but when I was in NYC, I didn't see or feel anything that would make me think of Rutgers.

However, I spent a lot of time out in Pitt about 5 years ago and that town lives with that school and the pro sports teams out there. Plus, Pitt is already in the Big Ten footprint.

It would bring back the PSU/Pitt game each year and the Big Ten would prolly have to come up with a new name, but align into two 6 team divisions.

East:
Penn State, Pitt, Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State, and Indiana or Purdue

West:
Indiand or Purdue, Northwestern, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minnesota

or

North:
Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Michigan State, Northwestern, and Iowa

South:
Penn State, Pitt, Purdue, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio State

ABHD

09-14-07, 06:08 PM

What kind of deals is Comcast offering in your area?

I played the "I am leaving Comcast for Fios" game with Comcast last month..

I'll have to look it up when I get home to see what all the deals are and post it later. They had deals on internet, phone and cable... I think it was 24.95 a month for internet. However, it does say this only lasts until 2008. So you really only get 3 or 4 months at the most at this rate, then they jack it back up to the regular price.

I've already signed up with Fios internet for a year to try it, Comcast said they'd lower my rates but I went ahead with Fios, We don't get FiosTV yet and it might not happen for another year. But in the mean time I hope the competition will eventually help push comcast to add more HD in our area and give us better deals.

Berto1020

09-15-07, 04:04 AM

Do you think more HD channels will be added by Comcast once the MLB season is over and they reduce the number of channels currently being used for the MLB Extra Innings package?

Marcus Carr

09-15-07, 04:27 AM

TBS HD is coming to Comcast

Coming to Baltimore on 10/1 as reported in the local thread.

We're also getting Food Network HD that day.

(Thanks to GoIrish)

A message about this just showed up on my cable boxes.

JayMan007

09-15-07, 07:43 AM

What kind of deals is Comcast offering in your area?

I played the "I am leaving Comcast for Fios" game with Comcast last month. The best they would do is their standard triply play package [internet, phone, digital cable] for $129 a month [Richmond Virginia area]. I already had all three except now I added the digital channels but my phone package was separate, now all three are on one bill. The extras Comcast tossed in made it worth it to me to also sign a two year contract (I could have only signed a 1 year contract instead). Comcast has not raised their rates in almost two years so I am betting that they will raise their rates and the two year contract will protect me from that. The extras Comcast included were 2 free digital cable boxes, HBO, Showtime, Stars and Encore and I get all that for two years for $129 per month. I already had a HD-DVR [extra $11.95 per month] so that takes care of my HD channels and now I also get the HD channels for the premium movie channels. I added the sports tier for the NFL channel $1.99 per month and I will cancel that after NFL season is over.

I compared Comcast to Verizon Fios and Comcast was a better deal for me with all the extras they throw into their $129 deal. I have too many TV's and the monthly digital box fees from Fios was just too much plus Fios does not include any premium movie channels or digital boxes with their deal.

ghudson666,
I'm also in Richmond, VA... What is included in the $129 package? I've heard of the $99 Triple play, but not the $129.
Last year I switched from Comcast Digital Phone to the Digital Voice and had all 3 services on 1 bill, HD-DVR, additional STB, & Digital Premier for $165. Well the year is up and it went back to full price, up almost $20. I've been thinking of switching to Vz, but since Comcast will be adding 4 HD channels this month (HGTV, Food & NFL already added, A&E on Monday) and at least 1 (PBS) next month, the 2 are very close in price and HD offerings.

JayMan

homcom

09-15-07, 08:53 AM

Do you think more HD channels will be added by Comcast once the MLB season is over and they reduce the number of channels currently being used for the MLB Extra Innings package?

No, as the channels used for the Extra Innings package are used for the Center Ice package during the winter months.

ghudson666

09-15-07, 11:34 AM

ghudson666,
I'm also in Richmond, VA... What is included in the $129 package? I've heard of the $99 Triple play, but not the $129.
Last year I switched from Comcast Digital Phone to the Digital Voice and had all 3 services on 1 bill, HD-DVR, additional STB, & Digital Premier for $165. Well the year is up and it went back to full price, up almost $20. I've been thinking of switching to Vz, but since Comcast will be adding 4 HD channels this month (HGTV, Food & NFL already added, A&E on Monday) and at least 1 (PBS) next month, the 2 are very close in price and HD offerings.

JayMan
The details of the Triple Play Preferred is @ http://www.comcast.com/shop/buyflow/default.ashx?SourcePage=Bundled The price is really $132.99 because of the $3.00 digital voice phone modem you have to rent. The regular price for that package is $178.85. I own my own broadband modem [free after Circuit City rebates] and I did not want to mess with that setup so I have both modems in my house. For me the new package deal added all the digital channels [before I was only getting analog and HD channels, no digital channels]. I also switched [upgraded my phone from the Comcast Digital Phone to the Digital Voice] so I now get all three services on one bill. Comcast also gave me two free digital cable boxes [normally you only get one free digital cable box unless you beg for the 2nd free box]. Where Comcast comes out on top [versus Verizon Fios or the satellites] is all the free premium movie channels they give you [HBO, Showtime, Starz and Encore] and two free digital cable boxes. Since I am already paying for the HD-DVR, I also get the HD channels for the free premium movie channels. Getting unlimited local and long distance phone calls will help but not a lot since we all have cell phones but I do like having called ID.

Verizon Fios could not touch that deal and they would not negotiate any deals when I asked. Verizon and Comcast have about the same prices and features for all the basics of the three services but Comcast wins by giving me two free digital cable boxes and free HBO, Showtime, Starz and Encore. That is why I signed the two year contract. Verizon Fios would have cost me a lot more to rent a digital box on all my TVs. For now, I do not need or want a cable box for all my TVs. Plus Verizon was going to charge me setup fees... an extra $19.99 per computer, an extra $19.99 per TV [1st computer is free and only the first of two TVs were free]. My neighbor recently switched to Verizon Fios and they have wires all around the back and side of their house were Verizon installed their new inbound lines.

Before I was paying @ $114 for just the expanded analog channels, 1 HD-DVR [which gave me all the HD channels], broadband internet and my separate digital phone bill added at least another $30. Now I get everything I mentioned above for @ $150 and my prices are locked in for two years with the contract I signed. Here is how my new Comcast bill breaks down...

63.99 Digital Preferred Plus Cable [+ HBO, Showtime, Starz, Encore]
33.00 Internet 6 Mbps Service
33.00 Digital Voice Phone Service
01.99 Sports Tier [NFL Network] price is only good for 1 year
11.95 HD-DVR & 1 Remote
03.00 Digital Voice Phone Modem
00.00 2 Digital Cable Boxes & 2 Remotes
02.95 Protection plan
--------
$149.88 [plus taxes]

When I first called Comcast and stated I was thinking about leaving for Verizon Fios I was asked if I could be transferred to one of their retention agents and I said yes to begin the game of "what will Comcast give me to keep me?". I know that my package is not unique, you just have to ask for it.

Over all I am happy with Comcast and have always been. Any time I have an issue with Comcast [service or billing], they always take care of it. After I upgraded to the triple play I complained that my favorite analog channel [FX] looked bad on my HDTV, they sent a tech to my house to investigate and he had them remotely turn off the analog signals on all my cable boxes so that all my channels are digital, plus the HD channels. I immediately noticed a huge difference. Many people do not know about the digital only option [I did not]. Like everybody else, I just hope Comcast adds more HD channels to stay competitive with the satellites and I think that they will. My Christmas wish is for the HD channel for the FX network. Comcast will just not be as fast to add HD channels for Comcast will sit back and analyze what they need to add to keep most [not all] of their customers happy.

afail

09-15-07, 11:53 AM

everyone forgets that Pitt wouldn't want to join the Big 10. Basketball. The Big East is the premier conference for hoops and although every assumed the Big East would be dead for football, note that it features WVU, Rutgers and Louisville -- 3 Top 25 teams.

I see it and disagree with it. I was out in NJ and NYC this past spring. When I was in NJ and on Rutgers Campus, it had the great feel and atmosphere, but when I was in NYC, I didn't see or feel anything that would make me think of Rutgers.

However, I spent a lot of time out in Pitt about 5 years ago and that town lives with that school and the pro sports teams out there. Plus, Pitt is already in the Big Ten footprint.

It would bring back the PSU/Pitt game each year and the Big Ten would prolly have to come up with a new name, but align into two 6 team divisions.

East:
Penn State, Pitt, Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State, and Indiana or Purdue

West:
Indiand or Purdue, Northwestern, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minnesota

or

North:
Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Michigan State, Northwestern, and Iowa

South:
Penn State, Pitt, Purdue, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio State

ABHD

09-15-07, 01:13 PM

What kind of deals is Comcast offering in your area?

Ok, I was wrong from my earlier post on the price for internet. The 4 page fold out add has 24.99/month for 100% digital TV with OD and HBO, Internet with Powerboost 19.99/month and digital phone with free install 24.99/month. Offers end 9/21/07 and last til 2008. www.comcast.com/housemates

Sorry to get off the topic, What's the next HD channel in our area? So far in almost 10 months nothing! But our most recent additions are UHD and MHD! Anybody got those yet?:p

maxman

09-15-07, 01:53 PM

...our most recent additions are UHD and MHD! Anybody got those yet?:p

Months ago!

sansri88

09-15-07, 03:02 PM

Sorry to get off the topic, What's the next HD channel in our area? So far in almost 10 months nothing! But our most recent additions are UHD and MHD! Anybody got those yet?:p

UHD came before the Olympics, MHD came out of the blue a long time ago. We have 2 additions coming, NGCHD and NFLHD, and we're still holding out for TBS in HD for the playoffs.

OT: Goo yanks!

hdtvjunkie247

09-15-07, 03:12 PM

I'm really getting that vibe that NJ will be seeing both Nat. Geo HD and NFL HD on October 9. None of that "no later than November 15" BS.

I'm really optimistic.

maxman

09-15-07, 04:19 PM

I'm really getting that vibe that NJ will be seeing both Nat. Geo HD and NFL HD on October 9. None of that "no later than November 15" BS.

I'm really optimistic.

I'm in South Jersey (Burlington County) and we got NatGeo-HD months ago. Don't have the NFL, Food or HGTV high def channels yet.

hdtvjunkie247

09-15-07, 05:11 PM

Yeah you guys down in South Jersey have had Nat. Geo HD & A&E HD since May 23 I believe.

I'm actually surprised that it took so long for Northern/Central NJ systems to get Nat. Geo HD. Usually we get any new HD channels about a month after South Jersey does. Its like South Jersey beta tests them first.

Still waiting on A&E HD, Food HD & HGTV HD.

sansri88

09-15-07, 09:10 PM

Also still waiting for TBS in HD....

donn35

09-15-07, 09:26 PM

Saw the latest Direct TV website today showing all the HD channels arriving this year & early next year, like MGM HD, USA Network, Sci-Fi Channel, etc., so why Comcast isn't doing the same?

sansri88

09-15-07, 10:12 PM

Saw the latest Direct TV website today showing all the HD channels arriving this year & early next year, like MGM HD, USA Network, Sci-Fi Channel, etc., so why Comcast isn't doing the same?

Carriage rights, bandwidth issues (not the case here), number of requests, etc.

gakon

09-16-07, 12:16 AM

We all *know* that Comcast isn't going to carry those channels as soon as they launch but, since those channels don't actually exist, no one can say for certain that "Comcast isn't doing the same". At the very least, I've never seen Comcast provide any specifics about future HD channels they're going to add, and I don't expect them to start for any reason, unless a large number of the 4.7 million HD subscribers make themselves heard.

sikoniko

09-16-07, 09:21 AM

would comcast have to re-negotiate for carriage of the new discovery hd channels or is it possible it would be included in the previous agreement? Im wondering if it is just a matter of time before they are added or if we have to wait the usual 12 months of negotiation and another 6 months before the channels are added to the line-up.

BlackwaterStout

09-16-07, 09:47 AM

I for one can't wait for DirecTV's new HD lineup because ever since Comcast took over for Adelphia my service had went down hill. I lost several channels I enjoy and just the other day I notice that I no longer get NFL-HD. Comcast has failed to add anything new to my lineup with the exception of 3 damn PBS stations. (Do you really need more than one?). I called them up and asked them to re-evaluate my bill because the rates have raised and I've got less channels now and I've been a loyal customer for years any they treated me like some kind of bitch.

I'm tired and fed up and on my way out...........

JayMan007

09-16-07, 09:47 AM

The details of the Triple Play Preferred is @ http://www.comcast.com/shop/buyflow/default.ashx?SourcePage=Bundled The price is really $132.99 because of the $3.00 digital voice phone modem you have to rent. The regular price for that package is $178.85. ...

... Here is how my new Comcast bill breaks down...

63.99 Digital Preferred Plus Cable [+ HBO, Showtime, Starz, Encore]
33.00 Internet 6 Mbps Service
33.00 Digital Voice Phone Service
01.99 Sports Tier [NFL Network] price is only good for 1 year
11.95 HD-DVR & 1 Remote
03.00 Digital Voice Phone Modem
00.00 2 Digital Cable Boxes & 2 Remotes
02.95 Protection plan
--------
$149.88 [plus taxes]

Thanks, I've seen that web site before. I currently have Digital Premier (HBO, Max, Sho, Starz, TMC) but don't watch TMC since there is no HD version. Any idea what additional amount it would be to add Cinemax? I didn't see an option price to add additional services.

BDCat

09-16-07, 09:51 AM

Thanks, I've seen that web site before. I currently have Digital Premier (HBO, Max, Sho, Starz, TMC) but don't watch TMC since there is no HD version. Any idea what additional amount it would be to add Cinemax? I didn't see an option price to add additional services.
I think you already have Cinemax!

bobby94928

09-16-07, 10:18 AM

ghudson666

09-16-07, 11:49 AM

I think you already have Cinemax!

JayMan007 is asking about adding Cinemax to the package deal I just subscribed to...

Originally Posted by ghudson666
The details of the Triple Play Preferred is @ http://www.comcast.com/shop/buyflow/...cePage=Bundled The price is really $132.99 because of the $3.00 digital voice phone modem you have to rent. The regular price for that package is $178.85. ...

... Here is how my new Comcast bill breaks down...

63.99 Digital Preferred Plus Cable [+ HBO, Showtime, Starz, Encore]
33.00 Internet 6 Mbps Service
33.00 Digital Voice Phone Service
01.99 Sports Tier [NFL Network] price is only good for 1 year
11.95 HD-DVR & 1 Remote
03.00 Digital Voice Phone Modem
00.00 2 Digital Cable Boxes & 2 Remotes
02.95 Protection plan
--------
$149.88 [plus taxes]

ghudson666

09-16-07, 01:54 PM

Comcast Adds NBC HD On Demand (http://http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcastnbc091607.htm)

I just checked and Richmond Virginia area has the 4 NBC shows in HD OnDemand. :)

I hope that Comcast will start to offer more new prime time shows as an OnDemand HD option. That would allow me to catch more shows that I keep missing since I can only record two prime time shows or watch one prime time show and record another prime time show with my HD-DVR.

gakon

09-16-07, 05:38 PM

I hope that Comcast will start to offer more new prime time shows as an OnDemand HD option.I'm sure that they will, since they count each show as a separate channel. They'll have millions of "channels" soon. :rolleyes:

DaveFi

09-16-07, 06:00 PM

Another HD OnDemand "channel" has just popped up: Game Invasion. There are lots of game trailers, previews and such in HD, nice. In my area it's found under "HD On Demand/The Cutting Edge".

DVDO+WESTY=1080p

09-17-07, 09:33 AM

So do you have all the channels below 100 (2-99) in digital format? Or are you just recieving all channels 100 and above? if you are how do you get Comcast to provide 2-99 in all digital? Do you have to have a certain cable box? Mine is the Scientific Atlanta 8300HD. Any info would be great thanks.

The details of the Triple Play Preferred is @ http://www.comcast.com/shop/buyflow/default.ashx?SourcePage=Bundled The price is really $132.99 because of the $3.00 digital voice phone modem you have to rent. The regular price for that package is $178.85. I own my own broadband modem [free after Circuit City rebates] and I did not want to mess with that setup so I have both modems in my house. For me the new package deal added all the digital channels [before I was only getting analog and HD channels, no digital channels]. I also switched [upgraded my phone from the Comcast Digital Phone to the Digital Voice] so I now get all three services on one bill. Comcast also gave me two free digital cable boxes [normally you only get one free digital cable box unless you beg for the 2nd free box]. Where Comcast comes out on top [versus Verizon Fios or the satellites] is all the free premium movie channels they give you [HBO, Showtime, Starz and Encore] and two free digital cable boxes. Since I am already paying for the HD-DVR, I also get the HD channels for the free premium movie channels. Getting unlimited local and long distance phone calls will help but not a lot since we all have cell phones but I do like having called ID.

Verizon Fios could not touch that deal and they would not negotiate any deals when I asked. Verizon and Comcast have about the same prices and features for all the basics of the three services but Comcast wins by giving me two free digital cable boxes and free HBO, Showtime, Starz and Encore. That is why I signed the two year contract. Verizon Fios would have cost me a lot more to rent a digital box on all my TVs. For now, I do not need or want a cable box for all my TVs. Plus Verizon was going to charge me setup fees... an extra $19.99 per computer, an extra $19.99 per TV [1st computer is free and only the first of two TVs were free]. My neighbor recently switched to Verizon Fios and they have wires all around the back and side of their house were Verizon installed their new inbound lines.

Before I was paying @ $114 for just the expanded analog channels, 1 HD-DVR [which gave me all the HD channels], broadband internet and my separate digital phone bill added at least another $30. Now I get everything I mentioned above for @ $150 and my prices are locked in for two years with the contract I signed. Here is how my new Comcast bill breaks down...

63.99 Digital Preferred Plus Cable [+ HBO, Showtime, Starz, Encore]
33.00 Internet 6 Mbps Service
33.00 Digital Voice Phone Service
01.99 Sports Tier [NFL Network] price is only good for 1 year
11.95 HD-DVR & 1 Remote
03.00 Digital Voice Phone Modem
00.00 2 Digital Cable Boxes & 2 Remotes
02.95 Protection plan
--------
$149.88 [plus taxes]

When I first called Comcast and stated I was thinking about leaving for Verizon Fios I was asked if I could be transferred to one of their retention agents and I said yes to begin the game of "what will Comcast give me to keep me?". I know that my package is not unique, you just have to ask for it.

Over all I am happy with Comcast and have always been. Any time I have an issue with Comcast [service or billing], they always take care of it. After I upgraded to the triple play I complained that my favorite analog channel [FX] looked bad on my HDTV, they sent a tech to my house to investigate and he had them remotely turn off the analog signals on all my cable boxes so that all my channels are digital, plus the HD channels. I immediately noticed a huge difference. Many people do not know about the digital only option [I did not]. Like everybody else, I just hope Comcast adds more HD channels to stay competitive with the satellites and I think that they will. My Christmas wish is for the HD channel for the FX network. Comcast will just not be as fast to add HD channels for Comcast will sit back and analyze what they need to add to keep most [not all] of their customers happy.

markofmayhem

09-17-07, 09:46 AM

You have to be in an area that offers Analag-Digital Simulcast (ADS). If you are in such area, tuning into a channel between 2 and 99 with a set top box may tune into the digital version of the channel (if available), where as if you did it with a straight connection into a cable ready TV, it would tune in the analog version. It is ABSOLUTELY determined by the area you live in. One quick and dirty way to tell is to look at the info bar when you put on a local channel, ESPN, CNN, or the Weather Channel: if it has the Dolby Digital logo, it's a digital channel. The true way to determine digital channels is to enter the box's status page and see if the channel is "ANALOG" or a version of QAM (digital). I'm only familiar with the Moto boxes, I don't know how to get there on an SA, sorry.

DVDO+WESTY=1080p

09-17-07, 11:14 AM

Marcus Carr

09-17-07, 12:04 PM

Comcast to Add TBS HD

The channel will air baseball playoff games next month.

By Swanni

Washington, D.C. (September 17, 2007) -- Comcast is adding TBS HD in Baltimore and perhaps other markets on October 1.

Jenni Moyer, a Comcast spokeswoman, confirmed the channel addition today. She said this morning that it was still uncertain if TBS HD will be added to markets other than Baltimore on October 1.

TBS HD is a simulcast of the standard-definition TBS. The network has the rights to carry first and second round action in this year's Major League Baseball playoffs, which begin October 3.

In addition to baseball. TBS airs a variety of repurposed programming including The Bill Engvall Show and The Cosby Show.

DIRECTV has already announced that it will carry TBS HD later this month. The network launched its HD simulcast on September 1.

Comcast COO and President Steve Burke told TVPredictions.com a year ago that the cable operator would offer 32-35 High-Definition channels in the third quarter of 2007.

The addition of TBS HD will give Comcast roughly 26 high-def channels in most markets.

Moyer said last week that the company could not offer a timeline for when more channels will be added.

"We will continue to negotiate with HD channels and we will continue to add HD channels," she said. "But we can't confirm a timeline."

http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcasttbs091707.htm

Snagglepuss

09-17-07, 12:10 PM

As with all things Comcast, they giveth and they taketh away.

I don't know how many of you watch the Showtime program Weeds via OnDemand in HD, but Comcast suddenly stopped posting new programs. They keep posting them in SD but not in HD.

The only things they've posted to HBO HD OnDemand is Love Stoned (6 minutes) and What Goes Around (10 minutes). That's it.

What gives?

Are they now tapped out for memory space with OnDemand? Or are they losing interest in yet another aspect of the television side of the business?

Frankly, if they don't want to be a cable TV provider anymore, they should sell off that part of the business and retain the rights to Internet and VOIP. If nearly 5 million HD customers are not enough to economically justify expansion of their HD business to compete with D*, then they really should get out of the business and concentrate on the most profitable parts of their business.

Comcast Adds NBC HD On Demand (http://http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcastnbc091607.htm)

I just checked and Richmond Virginia area has the 4 NBC shows in HD OnDemand. :)

I hope that Comcast will start to offer more new prime time shows as an OnDemand HD option. That would allow me to catch more shows that I keep missing since I can only record two prime time shows or watch one prime time show and record another prime time show with my HD-DVR.

GoIrish

09-17-07, 12:30 PM

Snagglepuss,
We are at least different in Baltimore; all the WEEDS eps in HD are here through last weeks.

On HBO HD there are currently only J. Timberlake and another title I didn't recognize.

That area seems to fluctuate fairly often so this may be a down period. I'll check it again in a few days and see what's there.

GoIrish

jefbal99

09-17-07, 12:37 PM

TravelFan1

09-17-07, 01:19 PM

jeff, check what I wrote to swanni (and his reply) in his Web Site:

http://www.tvpredictions.com/forum/comments.php?y=07&m=09&entry=entry070913-182108

JayMan007

09-17-07, 02:23 PM

... One quick and dirty way to tell is to look at the info bar when you put on a local channel, ESPN, CNN, or the Weather Channel: if it has the Dolby Digital logo, it's a digital channel. The true way to determine digital channels is to enter the box's status page and see if the channel is "ANALOG" or a version of QAM (digital). I'm only familiar with the Moto boxes, I don't know how to get there on an SA, sorry.

I don't think the quick and dirty method is accurate. I have the Moto 6412 and do not see the Dolby symbol on any channels below 100. My DVR was recently converted to ADS. I also have a DCT-700, which is digital only, and do not see the Dolby symbol on the channels < 100, but do on > 100.

Can you remind me how to get to the status page (Moto 6412), I'd like to confirm that they migrated me to digital. -I think it was power off, then ok. I'm at work, or I would try.
Thanks,

blitzen102

09-17-07, 02:28 PM

I don't think the quick and dirty method is accurate. I have the Moto 6412 and do not see the Dolby symbol on any channels below 100. My DVR was recently converted to ADS. I also have a DCT-700, which is digital only, and do not see the Dolby symbol on the channels < 100, but do on > 100.

Can you remind me how to get to the status page (Moto 6412), I'd like to confirm that they migrated me to digital. -I think it was power off, then ok. I'm at work, or I would try.
Thanks,

I agree that the dirty method isn't always accurate.

Yes, that is correct for the status page. You have to hit "ok" within 5 seconds of turning the box off, I believe.

scanpa

09-17-07, 02:32 PM

I agree that the dirty method isn't always accurate.

Yes, that is correct for the status page. You have to hit "ok" within 5 seconds of turning the box off, I believe.

2 sec. for Diagnostic Menu. _ok/Select_

no time limit for User Menu _ menu_

JayMan007

09-17-07, 03:13 PM

I agree that the dirty method isn't always accurate.

Yes, that is correct for the status page. You have to hit "ok" within 5 seconds of turning the box off, I believe.

Thanks.. I checked it out and I verified I am receiving Digital for channels below 100. Funny thing is that once I powered off the STB, and back on, I am now seeing the Dolby D logo on channels below 100.

I have a DCT-2000, which is receiving Analog on channels below 100. I'll have to call to have this changed... They were supposed to do this on the Tech call.

I called, and tech support says the DCT-2000 can not do ADS... I think they are full of it, because ch 14 (HBO) shows digital when I go to the Status page, it also shows DD5.1.

Back on Topic, A&E-HD was added today in Richmond, VA (223)

ghudson666

09-17-07, 06:57 PM

So do you have all the channels below 100 (2-99) in digital format? Or are you just receiving all channels 100 and above? if you are how do you get Comcast to provide 2-99 in all digital? Do you have to have a certain cable box? Mine is the Scientific Atlanta 8300HD. Any info would be great thanks.
All of my lower tier channels 2 thru 99 are now digital. I just checked the on screen info guide and my channels < 100 have the Dolby symbol and the D for digital in the right corner of the info line.

As I stated above... I called Comcast to complain about the graininess of the FX channel when I upgraded to the triple play package [I was previously getting only analog and HD channels, no digital channels with my HD DVR Motorola DCT6412 III cable box]. The Comcast tech that came to my house immediately stated that the analog signal needed to be turned off for my HD-DVR cable box when I showed him my FX channel 31. I have the HD DVR Motorola DCT6412 III (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorola_6412) cable box. The Comcast tech had to make a call and Comcast remotely made the change so that all of my cable boxes do not display the analog signal for channels 2 thru 99. I immediately noticed a big difference, especially with my favorite channel, FX.

Call Comcast and see if they can turn off the analog signals on your cable box.

ghudson666

09-17-07, 07:17 PM

I don't think the quick and dirty method is accurate. I have the Moto 6412 and do not see the Dolby symbol on any channels below 100. My DVR was recently converted to ADS. I also have a DCT-700, which is digital only, and do not see the Dolby symbol on the channels < 100, but do on > 100.

Can you remind me how to get to the status page (Moto 6412), I'd like to confirm that they migrated me to digital. -I think it was power off, then ok. I'm at work, or I would try.
Thanks,
I never knew about the channel status option. I just did the press power off then press the ok button (twice) to get to the channel status menu for Comcast channel 31 FX. The current channel status screen d06 lists the TYPE = DIGITAL. The inband status screen d04 lists the MODE = 256 QAM. Does that mean that my FX channel 31 is really coming from channel 256?

Another way to prove I am getting all digital for channels 2 thru 99.

bobby94928

09-17-07, 07:53 PM

I never knew about the channel status option. I just did the press power off then press the ok button (twice) to get to the channel status menu for Comcast channel 31 FX. The current channel status screen d06 lists the TYPE = DIGITAL. The inband status screen d04 lists the MODE = 256 QAM. Does that mean that my FX channel 31 is really coming from channel 256?

Another way to prove I am getting all digital for channels 2 thru 99.

The 256 QAM is a type of encoding not a channel number. They have 64 QAM and 256 QAM.

donn35

09-17-07, 09:31 PM

Comcast is adding TBS HD on October 1st which is okay, however, no mention of History Channel HD, Animal Planet HD, Science Channel HD, TLC HD, CNN HD, Big Ten Network HD, & Discovery Channel HD.

tbone4690

09-17-07, 09:56 PM

I'm done with Comcast, sick of not getting channels that places right over a river get and I don't. They like to try and steal money from you, charging 300 dollars installilation because some guy just flipped a switch, screw that. THey hang up on us, even the supervisor did. We are done with Comcast we moved to Verizon today and got the direct tv bundle with them. Have fun guys with Comcast hopefully they will be able to catch up to Direct, but they will never be able to hold as much as them though cause of the lack of space and they can never switch to fiber optic in jersey because Verizon has the monoply deal with the state for that.

sansri88

09-17-07, 10:21 PM

and they can never switch to fiber optic in jersey because Verizon has the monoply deal with the state for that.

False. Comcast has a fiber optic network, one of the largest in fact. But, they don't use FTTH. I think it's like U-Verse, where they have FTTN and then it's all on copper. In Comcast's case it's fiber-to-the-headend, and then cable out to the households. If Comcast ever wanted to compete with Verizon, they should consider expanding into the FTTH realm...

tbone4690

09-17-07, 11:07 PM

They can never have the direct fiber to the home though like Verizon does. That is what Verizon has monoplized in New Jersey.

nakedeye

09-18-07, 08:10 AM

They can never have the direct fiber to the home though like Verizon does. That is what Verizon has monoplized in New Jersey.

Sure they can, but it's gonna cost alot of money.

They can't piggyback off of Verizon, but they can set up thier own network.

MRM4

09-18-07, 08:46 AM

Comcast is adding TBS HD on October 1st which is okay, however, no mention of History Channel HD, Animal Planet HD, Science Channel HD, TLC HD, CNN HD, Big Ten Network HD, & Discovery Channel HD.

I thought Discovery HD was available for all Comcast customers across the country. We've had it for several years here in Knoxville, TN.

Texadillo

09-18-07, 09:12 AM

I thought Discovery HD was available for all Comcast customers across the country. We've had it for several years here in Knoxville, TN.

I think you are referring to Discovery HD Theater. Discovery Channel HD is a simulcast of the regular Discovery analog channel and has just become available.

JimboG

09-18-07, 10:33 AM

I thought Discovery HD was available for all Comcast customers across the country. We've had it for several years here in Knoxville, TN.

No, you've had Discovery HD Theater, a dedicated hi def channel.

Within the last month Discovery Communications launched HD simulcasts of several of their channels, including the primary Discovery channel. This new Discovery HD channel is on Dish Network and should be on DirecTV by the end of the week. As far as I know, Comcast has not announced when it will launch the new Discovery channels.

Snagglepuss

09-18-07, 10:55 AM

bobby94928

09-18-07, 11:33 AM

I saw the following article in the Rocky Mountain News today, and I was wondering what the impact will be on new HD channels? It means that Comcast will have to furnish broadcast analog programming to analog-only customers (estimated to be 40 million viewers) through 2012. In Denver, that's about 15 channels, and that's a lot of bandwidth.

http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/movies/article/0,2792,DRMN_23_5700589,00.html

The article also says that the cable companies could convert the digital signal to analog inside the customers house with a converter. That would certainly be the best way to accomplish a 100% digital network leaving a ton of bandwidth for HD.

GoIrish

09-18-07, 01:09 PM

The article also says that the cable companies could convert the digital signal to analog inside the customers house with a converter. That would certainly be the best way to accomplish a 100% digital network leaving a ton of bandwidth for HD.

True, although the cost for cable to supply all the converters to get that done for current customers without a box is $6 Billion, nationwide. Pretty staggering figure. The separable security component the FCC required since July almost doubled the price to cable for just standard digital boxes this year. This is part of the reason the all digital price is so high.

These two FCC decisions are not necessarily helpful to more HD in the short term for consumers.

GoIrish

mflores258

09-18-07, 03:32 PM

Ok, I'm a little lost. I see you guys talking about shows and movies available On Demand all the time, but I don't think I have any of that. The only HD On Demand channel I have offers new movies to purchase. I also have a bunch of SD On Demand channels. I live in the Memphis area. Is it possible that our Comcast doesn't offer what you guys have, or am I just not looking in the right place?

McDonoughDawg

09-18-07, 08:26 PM

sansri88

09-18-07, 08:44 PM

Yes it's very possible. My Comcast in Atlanta has a dedicated HD section on the main On Demand Menu, and also in other areas that offer HD.

Yes we also have a separate HD On Demand menu, although you can get to parts of it from different menus. Also, the premium channels HD are in the premium area.

Marcus Carr

09-19-07, 01:17 AM

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios is in talks with one of its owners, Comcast, as well as other distributors about carrying its new domestic HD channel, which will launch on DirecTV.

MGM doesn’t have a final carriage deal with Comcast yet for MGM HD, “but we’ve been talking to them all along,” said Douglas Lee, MGM’s executive vice president of Worldwide Digital Media. “They’ve always been supporters of this channel. We expect that we’ll get carriage, because we think we’re a good proposition.”

Comcast owns a 20% stake in MGM, and is part of a group of investors in the movie studio that includes Providence Equity Partners, Sony Corp. of America, DLJ Merchant Banking Partners and Quadrangle Group.

Comcast declined to say where its talks with MGM HD stood.

“We just don’t comment on ongoing programming discussions,” Comcast spokeswoman Jenni Moyer said.

http://multichannel.com/index.asp?layout=article&articleid=CA6479662

Marcus Carr

09-19-07, 02:08 AM

Goldman analyst Anthony Noto chats with Comcast (CMCSA) COO Stephen B. Burke:

...HDTV: Will get more aggressive in Q4 as new channels come on. So far, there hasn't been a lot a lot of channels we felt needed to go on the dial. But as top-20 channels come out with HD versions, we will have those. Capable of 500 HD movies/selections on demand.

http://www.alleyinsider.com/2007/09/comcast-cmcsa-c.html#more

The Top Cable Channels Of 2006

1. USA -- 2.63 million viewers average in primetime
2. TNT -- 2.38 million viewers
3. ESPN -- 2.19 million viewers
4. TBS -- 1.64 million viewers
5. Lifetime -- 1.54 million viewers
6. Cartoon Network -- 1.49 million viewers
7. Nick-At-Nite -- 1.49 million viewers
8. Fox News Channel -- 1.41 million viewers
9. fX -- 1.26 million viewers
10. Spike TV -- 1.24 million viewers

http://popsurfing.blogspot.com/2007/01/top-cable-channels-of-2006.html

ghudson666

09-19-07, 07:22 AM

DirecTV will initially make MGM HD available for free to its HD Access customers for their $9.99 a month fee in a preview, according to Lee. After that preview, he believes that then the satellite provider will move MGM HD to the $4.99 tier.

Comcast had better not start a seperate tier for HD channels that cost extra than what we get with our current HD channels for renting their HD-DVR.

maxman

09-19-07, 07:34 AM

"Verizon is taking video customers from us" - Steve Burke

http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcastverizon091807.htm

ABHD

09-19-07, 01:48 PM

"Verizon is taking video customers from us" - Steve Burke

http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcastverizon091807.htm

If Comcast isn't competitive in our area with FiosTV by the time it gets here, they will loose me as a costomer as well. We are about 6 HD channels behind most other Comcast areas now, and there are no announcements or rumors for any additions any time soon that I know of. I emailed the Comcast VP of our area and told him about my frustration with the lack of HD added in this area, and that I will likely switch to FiosTV when it becomes available and that I've already switched to Fios internet.

donn35

09-19-07, 04:08 PM

I thought Discovery HD was available for all Comcast customers across the country. We've had it for several years here in Knoxville, TN.
Not Discovery HD Theater! The one I am talking about is the HD simulcast of Discovery Channel that was launched on September 1st along with Animal Planet HD, Science Channel HD, & TLC HD. They are two different/separate channels.

Marty Milton

09-19-07, 04:18 PM

"Verizon is taking video customers from us" - Steve Burke

http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcastverizon091807.htm
If the people at Comcast don't get their heads out of the sand soon, they are going to lose a lot of customers that want the Big Ten Network. Count me among those that are starting to look at satellite very seriously.

sansri88

09-19-07, 05:20 PM

If the people at Comcast don't get their heads out of the sand soon, they are going to lose a lot of customers that want the Big Ten Network. Count me among those that are starting to look at satellite very seriously.

BTN is the least of my worries here. My parents are waiting for Comcast to add SET Asia, while I'm waiting for more HD! There's still time, I was told expect about 4 HD channels to be added in December, and a few more in January.

^^That applies for Comcast in North New Jersey ONLY

MWJones

09-19-07, 11:10 PM

Comcast had better not start a seperate tier for HD channels that cost extra than what we get with our current HD channels for renting their HD-DVR.

Ahem.... Houston market - HDNET and HDNET Movies, $3.00/Month extra.

Granted when we were Time Warner, it was $5.00/Month for HDNET and HDNET Movies, ESPN-HD and Universal HD. The latter two are now part of the regular HD tier.

smithfarmer

09-19-07, 11:31 PM

I'd gladly pay $3.00 a month to get back HDNET and HDNET Movies that were lost when Comcast took over Adelphia in my area.

BlackwaterStout

09-20-07, 07:37 AM

There are so many channels I'm reading about here that you guys have that my local Comcast does not offer. This blows. I keep reading on these forums that Comcast will launch Channels A, B, and C on such and such date and we never get them here.

Carl Jones

09-20-07, 10:08 AM

Message on my DVR this AM announced 5 new HD channels to start 9/25. National Geo, A&E, HGTV, Food Network, & NFL HD.

JimsArcade

09-20-07, 12:54 PM

Message on my DVR this AM announced 5 new HD channels to start 9/25. National Geo, A&E, HGTV, Food Network, & NFL HD.Same here. The channel order is kinda weird given that some channels are going to be in the middle of the pay HD channels. Unfortunately from what I've been reading here about A&E-HD is that it is a waste of bandwitdh given how much of their programming is in stretch-o-vision. :(

And I assume that NFL-HD will require people to be subscribed to the sports tier package. How many games are they carrying exclusively this year?

Still, I can't wait for some new HD programming!

Marcus Carr

09-20-07, 01:55 PM

I have non-premiums between premiums. Not sure why the premiums aren't right next to each other.

228 HBO
229 HGTV
231 Food (10/1)
232 TBS (10/1)
233 Cinemax
238 Showtime

MRM4

09-20-07, 02:09 PM

Message on my DVR this AM announced 5 new HD channels to start 9/25. National Geo, A&E, HGTV, Food Network, & NFL HD.

We already have A&E HD, I hope we get the others soon.

homcom

09-20-07, 02:12 PM

And I assume that NFL-HD will require people to be subscribed to the sports tier package. How many games are they carrying exclusively this year?

8 NFL games, 2 CFB Bowls.

PWNKAKE

09-20-07, 04:08 PM

I've already made my mind up.. if Comcast doesn't at least make an announcement on the simulcasting of Discover (which is my favorite channel) i'm going with Direct TV or the Dish. Gonna have to research it, but i'm sick of this. I have three HD channels...Disc. Hd theater, NG, and ESPN aside from the local ones (3 of them.. making 6 total). I'm sure with Dish or Direct i'll get more.

The operator i spoke with at Comcast said she had no idea of what HD channels they were getting and as far as she knew, they weren't adding any. Regardless, i pay over $100 for high speed internet and cable. I'll swith to DSL (save $20 a month there) and have plenty of head room to get an HD package from a competitor.

Comcast is just dragging their feet here and i'm sick of it.

blitzen102

09-20-07, 04:30 PM

The operator i spoke with at Comcast said she had no idea of what HD channels they were getting and as far as she knew, they weren't adding any.

Very RARELY will you get any information on upcoming channel additions for a CSR.

DirecTv doesn't have the Discovery Channel HD yet either.

Comcast is just dragging their feet here and i'm sick of it.

Just because YOU don't know of anything that they are doing or planning doesn't mean they aren't doing or planning anything.

Marcus Carr

09-20-07, 05:35 PM

I got something in the mail from Comcast that mentions HD games from NBA TV as part of the Sports Entertainment Pack. Doesn't say where they will be shown.

jefbal99

09-20-07, 07:03 PM

I got something in the mail from Comcast that mentions HD games from NBA TV as part of the Sports Entertainment Pack. Doesn't say where they will be shown.

They were on InHD/MojoHD last year. NBA TV would be shown, using an RSN feed, but NBAtv graphics.

rebkell

09-20-07, 07:48 PM

I got something in the mail from Comcast that mentions HD games from NBA TV as part of the Sports Entertainment Pack. Doesn't say where they will be shown.

It's amazing, the differences in the way Comcast does business around the country, I swear I don't think Comcast has ever sent anything in the mail except the bill, they don't advertise new additions, even when we got A&E, UHD, Nat. Geo, VS in HD added, it just showed up one day, we are completely left in the dark around here.

jefbal99

09-20-07, 08:00 PM

It's amazing, the differences in the way Comcast does business around the country, I swear I don't think Comcast has ever sent anything in the mail except the bill, they don't advertise new additions, even when we got A&E, UHD, Nat. Geo, VS in HD added, it just showed up one day, we are completely left in the dark around here.

We usually get STB messages, only mailings are bills and sales offers for new/more services

maxman

09-20-07, 08:22 PM

We usually get STB messages...

But if you have the Scientific Atlanta box, you don't get any messages, because it doesn't have messaging capability like the Motorola box.

drhill

09-20-07, 09:58 PM

I could have sworn when I fist got a digital box many years ago the manual says it can get messages...

Marcus Carr

09-21-07, 12:09 AM

They were on InHD/MojoHD last year. NBA TV would be shown, using an RSN feed, but NBAtv graphics.

I know, but there is no guarantee it will happen this year. MOJO isn't as big on sports as it used to be. And Comcast is pushing the sports tier harder, so it may be required to see the HD games. I sent a message to MOJO asking about NBA games but haven't received a response.

rebkell

09-21-07, 12:31 AM

We usually get STB messages, only mailings are bills and sales offers for new/more services

We get STB messages also, but they seem to be random and sporadic, On Demand stuff is pretty baffling too, I read about all the great stuff on HD, and I go to check it out and it's not there, but it seems like most of the time, the folders will be there, like the HD NBC stuff, I usually have a folder/section in my On Demand, but then when I open it up, it will have "No Listings Available".

They run promos saying the Closer will be available the next day on 'On Demand', but sometimes it may take a week or better to show up, some episodes get skipped intermittently sometimes they never show up at all, we never did get the last Episode of 'The Sopranos' in HD. Totally undependable.

jefbal99

09-21-07, 08:43 AM

But if you have the Scientific Atlanta box, you don't get any messages, because it doesn't have messaging capability like the Motorola box.

Never had an SA box and very happy for that

jwebb1970

09-21-07, 11:48 AM

Very RARELY will you get any information on upcoming channel additions for a CSR.

DirecTv doesn't have the Discovery Channel HD yet either.

Just because YOU don't know of anything that they are doing or planning doesn't mean they aren't doing or planning anything.

Getting channel addition or lineup change info from a Comcast CSR is impossible. They generally do not know what is going on in your area at all. Their info resource is the same as yours and mine...the Comcast website.

IF you get msgs on your cable box, this is the only semi-reliable way to get info. Of course, when Fresno Comcast added the last batch of HD (A&E, NGC...still waiting on History, Food), the msg didn't appear until a coulpe of days AFTER the channels appeared.

Look at it this way....when your area adds a station, just act surprised!;)

Marcus Carr

09-22-07, 07:51 AM

Comcast to Reduce Analog Channels After Transition

September 21, 2007

Comcast, the nation’s largest cable operator, will probably reduce the number of channels on its analog packages to make room for HD offerings after the end of over-the-air analog broadcasts in February 2009.

On Sept. 11, the FCC defied the pleadings of Comcast and ordered cable operators to either migrate to all-digital systems by the Feb. 18, 2009, analog shutoff or continue carrying local analog channels as well as local HDTV signals.

At the Merrill Lynch Fall Media Preview in Los Angeles Sept. 17, Comcast CEO Brian Roberts said the company’s systems, typically with about 85 analog channels, might shed a few.

“If we need to, and I’m sure we will, we will migrate a few of the analog channels to digital, and free up some of that 85 and maybe reduce it to 80, maybe someday reduce it to 75,” said Roberts.

With enhanced compression, switched digital video (SDV) and other technologies, numerous HDTV channels could be carried instead, he said.

Only 59 percent of Comcast’s customers get digital cable.

At the presentation, Roberts also said the company expected to continue double-digit growth for several years. As the company increases its digital penetration (with a goal of 80 to 85 percent after some unspecified number of years), customers spend more and churn less, he said.

http://www.tvtechnology.com/pages/s.0015/t.8667.html

chitchatjf

09-22-07, 08:45 AM

Comcast to Reduce Analog Channels After Transition

September 21, 2007

At the Merrill Lynch Fall Media Preview in Los Angeles Sept. 17, Comcast CEO Brian Roberts said the company’s systems, typically with about 85 analog channels, might shed a few.

“If we need to, and I’m sure we will, we will migrate a few of the analog channels to digital, and free up some of that 85 and maybe reduce it to 80, maybe someday reduce it to 75,” said Roberts.

75? Get real! What they did in Chicago they should do everywhere and IMHO they should have gotten a waiver to use the DCT700s then go ALL DIGITAL!

If they MUST have analog,it should be local broadcast and PEG channels ONLY NO CN8 or other limited basic channels.

ghudson666

09-22-07, 10:38 AM

Comcast should be eliminating all analog channels and have digital and HD channels only. Comcast can provide a cable box that will down convert the digital to analog for those that need it. That would satisfy the latest FCC ruling.

Why would Comcast need to continue analog channels after February 2009? Okay, maybe continue analog for the few local stations. As soon as Comcast removes all the analogs they will have more bandwidth room for more HD channels. What am I missing here?

Marcus Carr

09-22-07, 02:09 PM

Baltimore is already down to 71 analog channels.

mgpt6

09-22-07, 02:42 PM

after 2/19/2009 Comcast should be down to the 15-20 broadcast channels in each market that they would need to convert the digital signal to analog that can be received on a NTSC analog set without a converter. All other channels like CNN, ESPN, MTV, etc should be digital and require a set top box to be received on an analog set or the use of Cable card with a set with a QAM/ATSC tuner.That would bethat only the first 270 MHz , would be analog , and from 270 MHZ on up to 550Mhz , 750 Mhz , or 1 GHz would be digital for HDTV, SDTV, Internet , or IOP Phone.

mgpt6

09-22-07, 02:46 PM

Also, TBS-HD Oct 1st. Baseball playoffs 1st round on TBS only. Ni Local OTA according to other posts... Go SOX and Yankees suck......

kenvt

09-22-07, 03:18 PM

75? Get real! What they did in Chicago they should do everywhere and IMHO they should have gotten a waiver to use the DCT700s then go ALL DIGITAL!

If they MUST have analog,it should be local broadcast and PEG channels ONLY NO CN8 or other limited basic channels.

Where is Bicker1 when you need him ? Comcast will do what is in Comast's best interest. They do not want to absorb the cost of providing everyone digital boxes, and they don't want to piss off a large share of analog only customers by reducing the analog channels to just OTA. Just because you have digital hd sets that doesn't mean everyone else does. How many of your friends have digital sets ? Most of my friends are still living in a analog world.

-Ken

Marcus Carr

09-23-07, 06:20 AM

Apart from its DirecTV carriage, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios said it in talks with one of its owners, Comcast, as well as other distributors about carrying its new domestic HD channel.

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6480808.html

d2s2

09-23-07, 08:05 AM

Just found out our Comcast system is adding HGTV and Food Network in HD on 10/02/2007.

maxman

09-23-07, 08:31 AM

Quote:
Apart from its DirecTV carriage, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios said it in talks with one of its owners, Comcast, as well as other distributors about carrying its new domestic HD channel.

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6480808.html

By Linda Moss -- Multichannel News, 9/24/2007: "Also last week, Cox Communications and Discovery Communications said they had reached a carriage deal for the operator to offer the programmer’s four new HD networks, Discovery Channel HD, TLC HD, Animal Planet HD and The Science Channel HD."

Incredible isn't it that DirecTV and Cox have a deal w/MGM and Comcast, one of it's owners, doesn't (still "in talks"). :rolleyes::(

hdtvjunkie247

09-23-07, 08:57 AM

Comcast took out a notice in the Houston Chronicle announcing some HD additions, which included CNN HD and USA HD. Also History HD and TBS HD were mentioned in the ad. All additions will occur on 10/23.

http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcasthouston092307.htm

Comcast of Houston will be making changes to its channel lineup, as follows. Effective 10/16/07, the following channels will be moved: TBS from channel 31 to channel 51, Spike TV from channel 32 to channel 68, Women's Entertainment (WE) from channel 48 to Digital Cable channel 350, Golf from channel 68 to channel 32, ABC Family from channel 70 to channel 48, Court TV from channel 71 to channel 67, FX from channel 72 to channel 31, MSNBC from channel 73 to channel 80. Effective 10/23/07, the following new HD channels will be available: National Geographic HD on channel 283, USA HD on channel 284, A&E HD on channel 285, History HD on channel 286, HGTV HD on channel 287, Food HD on channel 288, CNN HD on channel 299, TBS HD on channel 303. The Fox Business Channel will be available on channel 234."

donn35

09-23-07, 09:52 AM

I spoke to a customer care specialist from Comcast that the History Channel HD will be added on October 16th & she stated that more will be offered next month.

sansri88

09-23-07, 10:01 AM

I spoke to a customer care specialist from Comcast that the History Channel HD will be added on October 16th & she stated that more will be offered next month.

Very nice, very nice. Maybe that and the other channels being added in Houston will be added here in December or January, I was told that probably 4 HD channels in December, a few more in January. No specifics though.

maxman

09-23-07, 10:51 AM

Very nice, very nice. Maybe that and the other channels being added in Houston will be added here in December or January, I was told that probably 4 HD channels in December, a few more in January. No specifics though.

Yeah, great. Means we should get them in S. Jersey around June/July/August '08. I think I'll be long gone from Comcast by then. Still don't have HGTV/Food yet.

Marcus Carr

09-23-07, 11:42 AM

I've heard that more channels are coming to Baltimore this fall besides TBS and Food Network, so they will probably include History, CNN and USA (hopefully).

Mcees4life

09-23-07, 11:53 AM

i hope we get all of these additions here in D.C. I'm still waiting for NFL Network HD.

sansri88

09-23-07, 12:25 PM

Yeah, great. Means we should get them in S. Jersey around June/July/August '08. I think I'll be long gone from Comcast by then. Still don't have HGTV/Food yet.

We don't have those either, and I should be long gone from Comcast if they don't add CNN HD and USA HD this winter. Verizon Engineering is planning for fiber stringing in my township in January or February 2008, so Comcast is running out of time to add HD channels...

Here is the quote from the North Jersey Marketing VP:

While we can not disclose specific information until the programming contracts have been approved, we are looking forward to providing our Northern New Jersey customers with several more HD channels by year end (some of which you mentioned) and numerous others in 2008

I specifically mentioned 4 HD channels: NGCHD, FOODHD, HGTVHD, and AEHD.

clonefan

09-23-07, 06:27 PM

Just found out our Comcast system is adding HGTV and Food Network in HD on 10/02/2007.

I hadn't heard this. that is great news. Where did you find this out from? I wonder how long it will take to see TBS, History etc here?

bob2274

09-23-07, 09:01 PM

i hope we get all of these additions here in D.C. I'm still waiting for NFL Network HD.

NFL HD stinks. Just about all of the shows are SD 4:3. The only big thing they have in HD are live games, and I have a feeling (just a feeling) that Comcast is obligated to have it turned on by the time they are shown.

hooked01

09-23-07, 10:30 PM

JayMan007

09-24-07, 10:08 AM

When NFLHD first showed up, it was un-blocked for the first few days. I couldn't understand why a new HD channel for Footbal was showing games in 4:3 when it was originally broadcast in HD. I wouldn't pay extra for this channel.

It depends on how the game was originally presented... Last week there were several "replays" of games and they were in HD. Some of them, ex. Browns/Bengals was in SD because it was on CBS is SD.

I agree that it should have more if not all in HD, but that's the way it is.

jwebb1970

09-24-07, 11:41 AM

the q

09-24-07, 12:09 PM

ak3883

09-24-07, 12:55 PM

In Montgomery County, PA I got a message on my cable box that Comcast is adding 5 new HD channels on 9/25.

Nat Geo HD - ch. 210
A&E HD - ch. 211
HGTV HD - ch. 213
Food Network HD - ch. 216
NFL Network - ch. 218

I have 20 HD channels now plus these 5 will put me at 25 on Tuesday!

Right, pretty much all systems in Southeastern PA, including Philadelphia and as far south as wilmington DE will be getting these 5 channels on 9/25. Finally SE PA catches up to the rest of the nation.

I took a scan earlier this weekend to find any that were added but not encrypted yet and/or mapped to the cable boxes yet, no luck. Will try again tonight, since it is only a day away.

chad473

09-24-07, 02:03 PM

already got nfl and ngc about two weeks ago here, I wonder if we got the other ones today.

Addicted2HD4Now

09-24-07, 04:35 PM

sansri88

09-24-07, 04:47 PM

Right, pretty much all systems in Southeastern PA, including Philadelphia and as far south as wilmington DE will be getting these 5 channels on 9/25. Finally SE PA catches up to the rest of the nation.

You know, us here in North New Jersey, we're still behind ya'll. We're only getting NGCHD and NFLHD on or after October 9th.

Todd Nicholson

09-24-07, 05:10 PM

Here in Seattle we don't have any of those. No NGHD, Food HD, A&E HD, HDTV HD.... Hell, they even removed National Geographic HD from OnDemand....

Snagglepuss

09-24-07, 05:24 PM

The problem is simple. Paradoxically, this simple problem creates the complexity for everybody who subscribes to cable.

Right now, we live in a bifurcated world of television: digital and analog. Most people still use analog signals, whether OTA or by cable. Analog signals gobble up bandwidth. Cable TV is constrained in the amount of bandwidth it can pipe into a given home. With the addition of Internet and phone services, less bandwidth is available for the television part of the stream. Something has to give. So to free up the bandwidth needed to transmit all of the potential digital/HD signals, cable has several options (perhaps combining several):

More compression
Less resolution
Increase everybody's rates and give them digital cable boxes (stop playing this game with tiered service!)
Create an all-inclusive service at an affordable price that allows those with QAM/ATSC tuners to not need cable boxes or cable cards.

There are others, I'm sure. But given the current paradigm (digital tv requires a cable box/cable card and Comcast will simply not supply all customers with the boxes), the bottom line is we are stuck. There will be few if any new digital/SD channels.

As I see it the only way to solve this problem until SDV is available is to offer the two tiers of service: digital with cable box and digital without cable box (letting people with digital TVs decode the signals with their TVs... no cable cards required, just a straight, unscrambled signal to the TV through the coax). If I want to add a recorder, then I can use an HD TIVO ($299 and $15/mo fee).

The darndest thing is, my TV works just fine with the current digital signals. If they didn't scramble the movie channels and such, I wouldn't need a digital box. Ironically, it seems the biggest expense for Comcast comes from scrambling the movie channels , PPV, and having tiered blocks of channels. Without the expenses involved in scrambling the signal (cable cards, $800 cable boxes, customer service people to tell us to "pull the plug" each time the box locks up), I wonder how much money they'd save? I bet they could boost their profits and charge us less at the same time by simply dropping the tiers and eliminating scrambling altogether.

My suggestion to Comcast is simple: think outside the box-- the cable box, that is!

Comcast to Reduce Analog Channels After Transition

September 21, 2007

Comcast, the nation’s largest cable operator, will probably reduce the number of channels on its analog packages to make room for HD offerings after the end of over-the-air analog broadcasts in February 2009.

On Sept. 11, the FCC defied the pleadings of Comcast and ordered cable operators to either migrate to all-digital systems by the Feb. 18, 2009, analog shutoff or continue carrying local analog channels as well as local HDTV signals.

At the Merrill Lynch Fall Media Preview in Los Angeles Sept. 17, Comcast CEO Brian Roberts said the company’s systems, typically with about 85 analog channels, might shed a few.

“If we need to, and I’m sure we will, we will migrate a few of the analog channels to digital, and free up some of that 85 and maybe reduce it to 80, maybe someday reduce it to 75,” said Roberts.

With enhanced compression, switched digital video (SDV) and other technologies, numerous HDTV channels could be carried instead, he said.

Only 59 percent of Comcast’s customers get digital cable.

At the presentation, Roberts also said the company expected to continue double-digit growth for several years. As the company increases its digital penetration (with a goal of 80 to 85 percent after some unspecified number of years), customers spend more and churn less, he said.

http://www.tvtechnology.com/pages/s.0015/t.8667.html

ak3883

09-24-07, 05:48 PM

What's the next HD channel for Comcast?

CNN HD and USA HD:

"Chris Ellis, a Comcast spokesman, today confirmed that the cable op will add CNN HD and USA HD in Houston and "other markets."

Plus TBS HD, would bring them up to 28.

http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcastconfirms092407.htm

sansri88

09-24-07, 06:49 PM

TBS-HD coming to Philly in "early October"

http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcastphilly092407.htmv

tsk tsk, Comcast is pushing it here, still waiting.

Also, does anyone know whether the NJBPU puts any of the notices of channel additions online? I'd like to keep track instead of looking in the paper every day.

chitchatjf

09-24-07, 08:31 PM

We'd better get TBSHD by the time of Game 1 of the ALDS.

Razorback HDTV

09-24-07, 08:45 PM

How does this OnDemand work?

I was under the assumption that only premium movies show up on OnDemand.

sansri88

09-24-07, 09:02 PM

How does this OnDemand work?

I was under the assumption that only premium movies show up on OnDemand.

Depends on the area, but many programs are put On Demand so you can view them at your pleasure. In my area, they have pretty much everything they are licensed to put on demand since we are one of their largest areas.

maxman

09-24-07, 09:19 PM

"Comcast...will probably reduce the number of channels on its analog packages to make room for HD offerings after the end of over-the-air analog broadcasts in February 2009."

So we basically get nothing in the way of HD channels until then???

nakedeye

09-24-07, 09:22 PM

bobby94928

09-24-07, 10:35 PM

broken link\\http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcastphilly092407.htm

Sparkman87

09-24-07, 10:39 PM

How does this OnDemand work?

I was under the assumption that only premium movies show up on OnDemand.

You may be thinking about InDemand, which is/was a name for the PPV system. On Demand here (Chicago area) has many, many different options including dating, marketplace with local stores, & lots of choices of programming. In is one of the huge draws to staying with COmcast over switching back to satellite.

like.no.other.

09-24-07, 10:48 PM

How does this OnDemand work?

I was under the assumption that only premium movies show up on OnDemand.

You press the big On Demand button. It takes you to a dedicated channel that
is interactive. You have a choice of TV Entertainment (MTV, Comedy Central,
etc.), Kids (Disney, Nickelodeon), etc. The videos, shows, movies are there for
your demand hence the name On Demand.... :) It's really cool. But I'd like a
additional support for PIP feature like Cox has.

brian hinson

09-25-07, 12:23 AM

just got our 5 new channels 20 minutes ago.

although im floored i get to watch FOOD hd now, it is history HD i truly crave.

damn the houston test market.

/comcast philly tech

ak3883

09-25-07, 12:25 AM

New channels are live in Lower Bucks county, PA, came on shortly after midnight.

Marcus Carr

09-25-07, 12:43 AM

They didn't waste any time! When they added HGTV HD here it was during infomercial time so I didn't see any HD until after work.

TBS HD and Food HD in Baltimore in six days. I hope we get CNN soon.

donn35

09-25-07, 04:50 AM

bicker1

09-25-07, 06:47 AM

Where is Bicker1 when you need him ?In Sedona, AZ and Moab, UT, on vacation. ;)

bicker1

09-25-07, 06:51 AM

We don't have those either, and I should be long gone from Comcast if they don't add CNN HD and USA HD this winter.I should keep track of all these pledges -- yours and maxman's -- and check back to see whether you've lived up to your word. :cool:

Verizon Engineering is planning for fiber stringing in my township in January or February 2008, so Comcast is running out of time to add HD channels...Bad logic. Verizon Engineering strung fiber past our home in July 2006. Still no FIOS TV available here, and Verizon will absolutely NOT talk to us about it.

Here is the quote from the North Jersey Marketing VP: At least Comcast will talk to you -- they'll say "no" perhaps more than you want them to, but unlike Verizon, they will at least talk to you.

bicker1

09-25-07, 06:53 AM

maxman

09-25-07, 08:15 AM

Does anyone know when the following HD channels will be added to Comcast-Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, Science Channel, & TLC?

I just inquired and received the same rote message I've received a dozen times before.

Philly may have gotten the new channels this morning but South Jersey didn't. Guess Comcast feels we should be lucky just to have any here.

raidbuck

09-25-07, 10:11 AM

Does anyone know when the following HD channels will be added to Comcast-Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, Science Channel, & TLC? I know that TBS, History Channel, CNN, USA Network, & the strong possibility of the Weather Channel & MGM will be among Comcast' HD lineup in October.

Isn't this great? We have so many different HD choices coming. I'm looking forward to TBS for baseball (the rest of the lineup, SD and UGH!) and hope that we get HistoryHD soon. Incredibly, in 15 years(?) that USA Network has been around I've never watched a show there, so I don't know if they have any good realistic (ie not SF or supernatural) dramas. CNNHD would be nice, but not if their remote feeds are all SD.

Anyone know what DHDT's future will be now that the individual channels are all simulcast in HD?

Rich N.

bicker1

09-25-07, 10:28 AM

FWIR, DHDT remains a separate channel.

jwebb1970

09-25-07, 10:55 AM

Comcast Fresno, CA recently added (or I just recently noticed) a "Discovery Networks" submenu to it's HD OnDemand listings. Seems to have more stuff not just found on DHDTheater.

Much lke the History Channel HD OnDemand offerings....perhaps we may be getting the new Discovery HD simulcasts--and HistoryHD--soon?

Everything I looked at says "Discovery HD Theater ON Demand" on the intro screen. I don't see this as a sign of anything to come.

Keep in mind that every market, and what it offers in both channels (esp HD) and OnDemand, is different.

It also appears that, at least for digital customers with a converter box, the Fresno CA "analog" 2-99 is now digital. 2 ways to confirm this with a Comcast/Motorola box/HDDVR. If your "basic" cable is digital, you will either notice the DolbyDigital logo on the info bar when tuning to one of these channels, or you can go into the Diagnostics Menu to check if the incoming signal (must be tuned to a 2-99 channel at the time) is analog or digital. The Fresno area stations all read as digital now.

Doesn't mean Fresno Comcast has ditched analog, just that the ADS is apparently up and running. PQ on these channels also seems to have improved slightly. Moto DVRs/boxes that feature both analog and digital tuners (the DCT series is the most common) auto overrides the analog tuner(s) whenever a digital signal is present.

Do hope this means some more HD additions soon. Thise "new" Discovery simucasts are getting a lot of ad time on DHDT. Then again, so does HDNET and we know where Comcast stands on that network at this time.

jwebb1970

09-25-07, 11:01 AM

FWIR, DHDT remains a separate channel.

DHDT has always carried programming that was available from the other channels, but was the only place you got them in HD.

Would imagine that DHDT will still be around for a while. At least until the other Discovery HD offerings are available to all cable/sat customers.

JayMan007

09-25-07, 11:53 AM

Moto DVRs/boxes that feature both analog and digital tuners (the DCT series is the most common) auto overrides the analog tuner(s) whenever a digital signal is present.

This isn't always true... I had the Motorola 6412, and was still getting the lower channels (<100) in analog. I had to place a service call and have a tech come out. He reset the box, then eventually made a call and in a few minutes, the lowers were digital. I did not see the Dolby logo until the DVR was powered off & back on. I have since exchanged it for the 3416 (All Digital, and larger disk). I now have a tech call to migrate an older STB (DCT-2224) to all digital.

Addicted2HD4Now

09-25-07, 12:00 PM

Keep in mind that every market, and what it offers in both channels (esp HD) and OnDemand, is different.

I should have been more clear as to what I meant. I have the "Discovery Networks" option under HD On Demand > TV Entertainment, but all the programming in there has the DHDT splash screen after clicking "play". I would agree that this is a sign that something is coming after we see TLC HD, Animal Planet HD or Discovery HD options under the Discovery Networks menu item. Much the same as we've seen History HD added as a menu item, this I would consider to be a sign that History HD is coming in the near future.

Marcus Carr

09-25-07, 02:16 PM

Comcast Kicks AMC, Court TV From Analog to Digital

Northern New Jersey to Shift Networks in October

By Linda Moss -- Multichannel News, 9/25/2007 10:16:00 AM

Comcast is moving AMC and Court TV from analog to digital service in several markets, with the latest shift taking place in northern New Jersey, one of the operator’s larger systems.

The nation’s biggest cable operator sent out notices this week to subscribers in north Jersey saying it was shifting AMC, Court TV and leased access to digital, “on or after” Oct. 9. AMC will go to Channel 138, Court TV to Channel 187 and leased access to Channel 190.

“Analog TV service is becoming a thing of the past and we are moving to an all-digital world,” Comcast told subscribers in north Jersey.

Earlier this month, Comcast moved AMC, Toon Disney and leased access to digital from analog in the Richmond-Chesterfield, Va., area.

It’s not clear how many Comcast subscribers in New Jersey will lose AMC and Court TV. Comcast corporate spokeswoman Jenni Moyer noted that she couldn’t provide a list of markets that are moving networks from analog to digital since “decisions to move channels are made at the local level for different reasons.”

Officials at AMC and Court TV couldn’t be reached for comment.

Earlier this year, Comcast made switches in its channel lineups in a wide variety of systems across the country, moving analog networks to digital to free up bandwidth for advanced services, such as HD networks.

But the networks primarily moved off analog to digital in those instances were C-SPAN2, TV Guide Channel, Hallmark Channel and GSN. AMC and Court TV were not part of those switchouts.

However, in the case of AMC, near the start of the year Comcast moved the network to analog in St. Louis Park, Minn.

During a town hearing in St. Louis Park, a subscriber complained about the AMC move. A Comcast representative said the company was in a transition to all-digital channels, and that most of its new customers subscribe to digital.

Some 59% of Comcast’s video subscribers had digital service as of June 30, according to the company.

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6482624.html

blitzen102

09-25-07, 02:31 PM

However, in the case of AMC, near the start of the year Comcast moved the network to analog in St. Louis Park, Minn.

I think the article meant to say "digital".

JayMan007

09-25-07, 03:27 PM

Comcast Kicks AMC, Court TV From Analog to Digital

Earlier this month, Comcast moved AMC, Toon Disney and leased access to digital from analog in the Richmond-Chesterfield, Va., area.

The channels were officially moved to digital on 9/5, but still remained on Analog for about a week, then moved off analog. Since then, Comcast-Richmond has added NFL-HD, HGTV-HD, Food-HD & A&E-HD, and is planning to add PBS-HD at the end of October. I say get rid of all analog but the locals and a few others like HNN, Disney, Weather, etc. and add more HD like what Dish and DirectTV are starting to get.

Amnesia

09-25-07, 03:59 PM

Comcast Kicks AMC, Court TV From Analog to DigitalIMO, the use of the word "kick" implies a demotion. I this the transfer to digital as an improvement...

sansri88

09-25-07, 04:43 PM

I've been doing as much research as I can, I have to convince my parents that it's economically worthwhile to switch to multiple providers instead of staying with Comcast.

BDCat

09-25-07, 04:48 PM

I've been doing as much research as I can, I have to convince my parents that it's economically worthwhile to switch to multiple providers instead of staying with Comcast.If you find a way please be sure to let us all know!:)

ghudson666

09-25-07, 07:37 PM

This isn't always true... I had the Motorola 6412, and was still getting the lower channels (<100) in analog. I had to place a service call and have a tech come out. He reset the box, then eventually made a call and in a few minutes, the lowers were digital. I did not see the Dolby logo until the DVR was powered off & back on. I have since exchanged it for the 3416 (All Digital, and larger disk). I now have a tech call to migrate an older STB (DCT-2224) to all digital.

Did you just go to the Staples Mill office and exchange your 6412 HD-DVR for the 3416? I really want the larger hard drive on that model.

Not a lot of information out there about the 3416. I did find this on the Motorola site... DCH3416 User Guide (http://broadband.motorola.com/business/digitalvideo/downloads/DCH3416_User_Guide_537529-001-c.pdf)

Does the front USB port work? Comcast disabled all the front ports on the 6412.

What are the dimensions of the 3416?

Does the 30 second skip macro work on the 3416?

The LED for the channel and time appears on the 3416 to be a lot dimmer than on the 6412. Is it harder to read from a distance.

Anything that you do not like about the 3416 compared to the 6412?

Thanks!

nakedeye

09-25-07, 08:25 PM

Anyone else in the willow grove are think that the picture on NATGHD is goofy? it seems as if it's interlaced...

Perhaps the cross conversion from 720p to 1080i on my 3416 stinks? I normally notice a softer picture set to 1080i than if I have the box send out 720p. This is different however. It looks "swimmy". The 1080i chans look decent enough though.

For the record i've got a 1080p SXRD set.

brian hinson

09-25-07, 11:31 PM

i dont understand what you mean.

maxman

09-26-07, 07:57 AM

Today, at 6am, DIRECTV Launched 21 HD Channels

http://www.tvpredictions.com/dchannellaunch092607.htm

So what's the next HD channel for Comcast?

nakedeye

09-26-07, 07:59 AM

NATGHD is a 720p chan. I happen to have my box set to 1080i as I havea 1080p set. It's a pain in the ass to change it back and forth from 1080i to 720p. Watching NATGHD it looked as if it were interlaced. It was very "swimmy" and scan lines popped out on movement. I have not noticed this before on other 720p material.

I'm wondering if they hosed the transmition of NATGHD

blitzen102

09-26-07, 09:56 AM

Did you just go to the Staples Mill office and exchange your 6412 HD-DVR for the 3416? I really want the larger hard drive on that model.

Not a lot of information out there about the 3416. I did find this on the Motorola site... DCH3416 User Guide (http://broadband.motorola.com/business/digitalvideo/downloads/DCH3416_User_Guide_537529-001-c.pdf)

Does the front USB port work? Comcast disabled all the front ports on the 6412.

What are the dimensions of the 3416?

Does the 30 second skip macro work on the 3416?

The LED for the channel and time appears on the 3416 to be a lot dimmer than on the 6412. Is it harder to read from a distance.

Anything that you do not like about the 3416 compared to the 6412?

Thanks!

This doesn't belong here - it is way off topic. See the HDTV Recorders section or send a message to the poster you are responding to.

Marcus Carr

09-26-07, 10:05 AM

Boston:

TBS, CNN on 10/2.
USA, History by the end of October.

http://www.boston.com/business/globe/articles/2007/09/26/high_definition_tbs_feed_should_please_red_sox_fans/

jwebb1970

09-26-07, 10:42 AM

Today, at 6am, DIRECTV Launched 21 HD Channels

http://www.tvpredictions.com/dchannellaunch092607.htm

So what's the next HD channel for Comcast?

7 of those channels do require a subscription to either Starz! or Showtime.

Interested to hear how the PQ is post-additions. Comcast still keeps me now because of OnDemand and HD locals w/o an antenna.

D* has HD locals in my area, but they still want $200 up front for the HDDVR.

E*'s HDDVR is "free" with an 18 mo contract, and has some limited OnDemand options. But in my area, I still need an antenna for HD locals (which has never worked well for me)

I will glady switch to a satco as soon as one or the other gives me everything I want (HD locals over sat, "free" HDDVR). Both have much more HD programming than Comcast. E* having the old VOOM content is cool, since I was once a VOOM customer. And both satcos have HDNet, which I would really like to have (sorry Comcast, MOJO is not the same).

Of course, that may change soon as well.

jrusnak

09-26-07, 10:55 AM

I'll believe it when I see it. Right now, Comcast in North NJ still doesn't even have HGTV, Food, or A&E HD! And, even if those were added tomorrow, it wouldn't matter. I'll never watch the first two, and A&E apparently has next-to-no HD programming! But the DirectTV line-up seems to have every channel that I'd want by the end of next month! I'm just waiting for D* owners to chime in the quality of the HD channels. If it's "thumbs-up", it's good-bye to Comcast.

Both have much more HD programming than Comcast...Of course, that may change soon as well.

Amnesia

09-26-07, 11:25 AM

Boston:
TBS, CNN on 10/2.
USA, History by the end of October.Thanks so much for the info!

Has anyone seen a program schedule for USA-HD? How much of their schedule is actually in HD?

Marcus Carr

09-26-07, 11:30 AM

USA launches in October on D* and Comcast.

Marcus Carr

09-26-07, 11:51 AM

Comcast Wires HGTV, Food Net For HD

Anthony Crupi

SEPTEMBER 26, 2007 -

Scripps Networks and Comcast have hashed out a multi-year deal to roll out HGTV HD and Food Network HD in each of the operator’s cable systems.

Comcast began offering the HD simulcasts in May, offering the channels to subscribers in its New England footprint. The MSO followed the Boston/New Hampshire launch with rollouts in Chicago and South Jersey/Philadelphia.

The company said that it will continue to expand availability to other markets over the course of 2008.

Recent consumer research suggests that there is an increasing demand for lifestyle programming in the HD format. The latest Frank N. Magid & Associates study of the digital and high-def marketplace found that the majority of adults 25-54 surveyed ranked HGTV HD and Food Network HD in their top five “would watch” list of HD channels.

http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/news/recent_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003646686

maxman

09-26-07, 12:22 PM

Comcast Wires HGTV, Food Net For HD

Scripps Networks and Comcast have hashed out a multi-year deal to roll out HGTV HD and Food Network HD in each of the operator’s cable systems.

The company said that it will continue to expand availability to other markets over the course of 2008.

I'm expected to wait until "sometime in 2008" for these HD channels????

Marcus Carr

09-26-07, 12:33 PM

I'm expected to wait until "sometime in 2008" for these HD channels????

I don't know about you, but I'm getting Food Network HD in five days.

jefbal99

09-26-07, 12:35 PM

Thanks so much for the info!

Has anyone seen a program schedule for USA-HD? How much of their schedule is actually in HD?

I know that Monk is HD (on UHD) and Pysch (NBC). I would assume that all of their original series would be produced in HD. WWE is going HD in '08, Most of the L&O reruns they show will be HD, along with the House reruns. New L&O CI will be HD, also US Open Tennis and The Masters early round coverage.

I hope they spring for HD versions of the movies that are shown when available.

Ken H

09-26-07, 12:50 PM

JayMan007

09-26-07, 12:51 PM

Did you..

ghudson666,

I tried to PM you, but couldn't. I did put a response in the Richmond, VA thread.

Ken H

09-26-07, 01:01 PM

So what's the next HD channel for Comcast?

New HD channels have been announced for Comcast in the Houston area at the end of October, which means other areas should also have them soon:

USA HD
History HD
CNN HD
TBS HD
Fox Business Channel HD

As noted before, TBS HD will probably be added on or before the MLB Playoffs begin on October 3rd.

Finally, they are in negotiations with MGM HD.

MickeyGee

09-26-07, 01:22 PM

I don't know about you, but I'm getting Food Network HD in five days.
Then its 5 days to Giada ("Everyday Italian"). Enjoy.

Mickey

jefbal99

09-26-07, 01:28 PM

Then its 5 days to Giada ("Everyday Italian"). Enjoy.

Mickey

She also has the vacation show :)

Andy Anonymous

09-26-07, 01:30 PM

The new HD channels from Comcast were reported in the Boston Globe today:

Link (http://www.boston.com/business/globe/articles/2007/09/26/high_definition_tbs_feed_should_please_red_sox_fans/)

Amnesia

09-26-07, 01:37 PM

See post 3972

Amnesia

09-26-07, 01:38 PM

Hey, if NBC, UHD are already HD and USA will soon be HD, then what about SciFi HD? Has that been announced at all?

Marcus Carr

09-26-07, 02:04 PM

Hey, if NBC, UHD are already HD and USA will soon be USA, then what about SciFi HD? Has that been announced at all?

D* gets it in October. No word on Comcast.

MRM4

09-26-07, 02:25 PM

Hey, if NBC, UHD are already HD and USA will soon be HD, then what about SciFi HD? Has that been announced at all?

I believe Dish Network has had that channel for some time.

DVDO+WESTY=1080p

09-26-07, 02:33 PM

so how can comcast can catch up with D since they have these channels or most of them soon?

ESPN HD (206/73)
ESPN2 HD (209/72)
(Discovery) HD Theater (76)
HDNet (79)
HDNet Movies (78)
TNT HD (245/75)
Universal HD (74)
CD USA (101)
HBO HD East (70/501/509)
Showtime HD (71/537/543)

MPEG4 RECENT ADDITIONS 9/26/07
A&E HD (265)
Animal Planet HD (282)
Big Ten HD (220)
CNN HD (202)
Discovery HD (278)
History Channel HD (269)
TLC HD (280)
NFL Network HD (212)
Science Channel HD (284)
Smithsonian HD (267)
TBS HD (247)
Versus HD / Golf Channel HD (604)
Weather Channel HD (362)
The Movie Channel HD (544)
SHO Too HD (538)
Showtime HD West (540)
Starz Comedy HD (519)
Starz HD East (520)
Starz HD West (521)
Starz Edge HD (522)
Starz Kids and Family (518)

Before end of year

Food Network*
HGTV*
MHD (MTV brand channel)
National Geographic
Cinemax-E
Cinemax-W
MoreMax
HBO-W
HBO2-E
HBO2-W
HBO Family-E
HBO Family-W
HBO Signature
<<<updating>>> 2007
Bravo
Cartoon Network
Chiller
CNBC
Fuel
FX
MTV
NBA TV
VH1
SciFi Channel
Sleuth
Speed
USA Network

December 2007
The Tennis Channel
Regional Sports Networks

Altitude
Comcast SportsNet Chicago
Comcast SportsNet Mid-Atlantic
FSN Arizona
FSN Bay Area
FSN Detroit
FSN Florida
FSN New England
FSN North
FSN Northwest
FSN Ohio
FSN Prime Ticket
FSN Rocky Mountain
FSN South
FSN Southwest
FSN West
New England Sports Network
SportsNet New York
SportsSouth
Sun Sports
YES
FSN Midwest
FSN Houston
FSN New York
FSN Pittsburgh
MSG
FSN Cincinnati
Comcast SportsNet West
MASN/SportsTime Ohio

Foreign Language Channels

HBO Latino - 9/07

Amnesia

09-26-07, 02:45 PM

I believe Dish Network has had that channel for some time.It's not listed on their site...

jefbal99

09-26-07, 02:51 PM

SciFi HD doesn't even exist yet, along with many of the HD channels that D* has announced.

Please keep on topic about the next COMCAST hd channel.

Posting lists of other carriers HD channels is not really relevant here as Comcast may add them and they may not.

If you have a question about a specific channel, then ask it, but the lists of D* and E* channels exist in many other, appropriate places on these forums.

As for bandwidth, Comcast and all MSOs are researching/testing SDV, moving channels to digital signals from analog, and doing network upgrades for expansion.

DVDO+WESTY=1080p

09-26-07, 02:54 PM

well the next hd channel for comcast won't be most of those for some time. others have posted references to the 21 additonal D channels. the SDV stuff won't be available for some time either so I think we are stuck with what we have for now.

jwebb1970

09-26-07, 03:59 PM

I know that Monk is HD (on UHD) and Pysch (NBC). I would assume that all of their original series would be produced in HD. WWE is going HD in '08, Most of the L&O reruns they show will be HD, along with the House reruns. New L&O CI will be HD, also US Open Tennis and The Masters early round coverage.

I hope they spring for HD versions of the movies that are shown when available.

Have read that both THE 4400 and THE DEAD ZONE are also produced in HD.

Agree w/ jefbal99 about the D*/E* comparisons. As I've said here earlier...I'd jump to E* today if they carried my local HD over sat, or maybe even D* if they didn't gouge you $200 at the get-go for their HDDVR.

Local HD and OnDemand keep me w/ Comcast. And that's the subject here. As for the HD future in relation to cable bandwith, etc., it seems that the Fresno market might be gearing up for the higher bandwith demands new HD requires.

Could be wrong, but it appears that the 2-99 analog tier is now digital. "Analog" PQ seemed better recently, but I didn't consider that a change in signal was the cause. Later I, and a couple of others here on the Fresno HDTV thread, noticed that our Moto cable boxes/DVRS were receiving 2-99 as digital.

One clue was the presense of the DolbyDigital logo with chs 2-99on the Comcast info box that appears briefly when tuning to a channel. In the past, there wasn't one on the 2-99 stuff. Now there is.

Second tip was that when going into the Moto Diagnostic menu, both tuners register receiving digital signals when both are tuned to 2-99 stations. IN the past, they would read ANALOG when tuned to any 2-99. Using a DCT 6416 SIII, BTW. Both analog and digital capable.

Had been told by Comcast in the past that when ADS lights up in your area, you will see 2-99 repeated as digital signals on another tier (presumably in the unused 200's in my area). So the fact that 2-99 is coming up "digital" now makes me wonder if we are in fact all-digital in Fresno. ANd presumably ready for more HD additions.

Any thoughts?

Sorry to stray off-topic a bit, esp. after seconding jefbal's plea to stay on-topic. Just thought that since I had the floor, I'd mention this. :)