St. Louis, MO - OTA [Text View] - Page 25

BudShark

11-27-07, 10:30 AM

Not being cutsie....is the 30 Sec Skip back in the 21? I know it was once removed, I think from the 20's...I can't really remember. But, is it back now?
tia :)

Was this for me? Not sure... Anyhow:

30Sec Skip is in firmware 1c3 or later. You enable it by doing a keyword search 30SKIP (or 30SLIP). It reliably does 30secs, it can be stacked (i.e. 3 quick presses gets you 90secs) and does not show the progress bar on the bottom (which I like).

Right now, only the HR20-700 has it, but the -100 and HR21 should get it soon.

They also added Video support to the Media Share (you can play back videos from your PC over the network) and the buffer updates. All in all looks like some needed/desired improvements are coming now that the Video on Demand is out.

Chris

Scott Tucker

11-27-07, 10:47 AM

Not being cutsie....is the 30 Sec Skip back in the 21? I know it was once removed, I think from the 20's...I can't really remember. But, is it back now?
tia :)

Ken, I have the HR20-100's. I don't think I have 30 sec skip. I may have 30 sec slip though.

Scott

dweebe

11-27-07, 10:51 AM

I'm thinking Charter should have saved this for April 1:

Charter Adds Wealth TV to HDTV Lineup in Louisiana (http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6505267.html?nid=3411)

That just seems REALLY wrong from multiple angles...

I thought I read that Wealth TV was pretty much a freebie for cable systems? Thats probably why Charter added the channel: they don't have to pay for it.

Closet Geek

11-27-07, 04:43 PM

MizzouTiger

11-27-07, 05:15 PM

Ken, I have the HR20-100's. I don't think I have 30 sec skip. I may have 30 sec slip though.

Scott

The HR20/21's definitely have the 30s slip. The "skip" feature is being tested/debugged as part of the lastest beta software for the HR20-700. Right now, there are still a few problems with it when you catch back up to live TV - start getting audio dropouts. It's easily fixed but either jumping back or changing channels - but it's still a bug that's being worked out before getting into the next national release software.

Scott Tucker

11-27-07, 11:25 PM

For those of you who have recently contracted D* for HD upgrades, what is the average install timeframe in terms of "weeks out"? I'm a couple of weeks out from completing my new buildout at which time I'll be bringing in a new Mit 65833 and upgrading to HD through D*. Should I schedule now?

The day I called to upgrade they offered to install it the very next day. I wasn't in a hurry, so I pushed it off 'till later.

Personally, why wait? If you want it in a couple of weeks , why not get it now? You're likely going to hoop it up to additional TV's in the home, and you can enjoy it in the meantime. You will love Directv.

Closet Geek

11-28-07, 03:00 PM

Thanks Scott! I guess it actually doesn't make much sense to wait. I'm already a D* customer (10 years) so what difference would it make to upgrade a couple of weeks early even if I can't see the HD benefit. And now that I think of it, since I'm out of contract they might be willing to upgrade me without and charge for December...along with any other promotions running and deals I can negotiate for.

Another question for anyone that it applies to. With this upgrade I'm thinking about just including the upgrades to my kids rooms as well. They are very young and have little to no interest to whats on tv as opposed to dvd. But bedrooms these days are so small I'm seriously thinking about getting them a cheaper 720p flat panel to free up floor space and including their rooms while I'm doing the upgrade. Anyone else out there considering this or already done it?

Brian Sax

11-28-07, 06:42 PM

Speaking of uverse, evidently Dec 10th will be the day one can order the service, if there are facilities in your area.

I have heard the 5th of Nov, 19th of Nov....

I just ordered it today and they will be installing it on 12/18. Apparently my house/block is one of a few in our neighborhood ready for u-verse. Frankly, I'm excited about about my plan and a new service. After finally being able to move away from charter, i went with dish network a little less than a year ago. I just bought a new HDTV and after pulling my hair out the last 2 days trying to figure out what to do(cause DN wasn't working for me), i decided to let fate decide and signed up with the sales rep walking my block today. new tv, new service, and whole new(hopefully great) experience.

I'm new to the forum, but i thought i'd share after searching this thread regarding u-verse.

BTW - This site is a wealth of information! It really helped me with my recent HD TV/DVD player purchases. I'll be sure to chime in again when everything is all setup in a few weeks

StLBluesFan

11-28-07, 10:43 PM

bhornberger

11-28-07, 11:26 PM

I just ordered it today and they will be installing it on 12/18. Apparently my house/block is one of a few in our neighborhood ready for u-verse. Frankly, I'm excited about about my plan and a new service. After finally being able to move away from charter, i went with dish network a little less than a year ago. I just bought a new HDTV and after pulling my hair out the last 2 days trying to figure out what to do(cause DN wasn't working for me), i decided to let fate decide and signed up with the sales rep walking my block today. new tv, new service, and whole new(hopefully great) experience.

I'm new to the forum, but i thought i'd share after searching this thread regarding u-verse.

BTW - This site is a wealth of information! It really helped me with my recent HD TV/DVD player purchases. I'll be sure to chime in again when everything is all setup in a few weeks

Brian,

Please let us know how the install goes. Having an old house in Webster Groves, there might have to be some re-configuration of my wires that I might have to do for u-verse. I heard that the boxes can take coax or ethernet. I'm wondering if I could use some sort of wireless to ethernet at some of the bedrooms that are not online yet.

Scott Tucker

11-29-07, 12:06 AM

I just ordered it today and they will be installing it on 12/18. Apparently my house/block is one of a few in our neighborhood ready for u-verse. Frankly, I'm excited about about my plan and a new service. After finally being able to move away from charter, i went with dish network a little less than a year ago. I just bought a new HDTV and after pulling my hair out the last 2 days trying to figure out what to do(cause DN wasn't working for me), i decided to let fate decide and signed up with the sales rep walking my block today. new tv, new service, and whole new(hopefully great) experience.

I'm new to the forum, but i thought i'd share after searching this thread regarding u-verse.

BTW - This site is a wealth of information! It really helped me with my recent HD TV/DVD player purchases. I'll be sure to chime in again when everything is all setup in a few weeks

Welcome to the forum Brian Sax! I hope you enjoy your time here, and please do keep us posted.

Scott

Kurt K

11-30-07, 04:16 PM

More than 36 hours without a reply? Is everyone pacing (oops on my previous spelling error) themselves for the big game tomorrow?

With any luck I might have my electric ran to the new TV location in my kitchen.

Robert Simandl

12-02-07, 06:28 PM

Scott Tucker

12-02-07, 10:14 PM

So what the hell happened to the HD on the Bears-Giants game on KTVI?????????? It's currently a 4x3 upconvert.

It's definitely NOT a network problem since the same game is still being shown in HD (Lite) on channel 88 Fox East HD.

Ah, forgot to check 88, but I did check 2 and 2-1 on D* only to find what you did that the game was not in HD. It still looked better on my projector than the SD Sunday Ticket games looked. I was lucky to see my Chargers in HD on CBS today, so I was happy. :)

Scott

MizzouTiger

12-02-07, 11:12 PM

So what the hell happened to the HD on the Bears-Giants game on KTVI?????????? It's currently a 4x3 upconvert.

It's definitely NOT a network problem since the same game is still being shown in HD (Lite) on channel 88 Fox East HD.

Well, I was watching on OTA via my D* HR20 receiver and it looked like either Fox or Channel 2 was having some problems. Would loose video and then the Fox Test Pattern would show up for a few seconds then would go back to the game. Kept happening off and on. Also, would sometimes get a searching for signal error on antenna feed. If it was on channel 88, then I would say it was a channel 2 problem.

PenDragon

12-04-07, 10:33 AM

Just out of curiosity, does anyone know why I would have a problem in the past few weeks with OTA HD reception? I've had near-perfect reception for over a year now, and then within the last 3 weeks, channels 4, 5, and 30 are all very iffy. I almost never get full signal loss, but the picture and sound is so jumpy that it's almost unwatchable. When I look at the signal strength meter, channels 4, 5, and 30 alternate between 1 bar (20%) and 5 bars (100%), seemingly independent of each other at that. Channels 2 and 11 stayed at 5 bars. In the past, channels 2, 4, 5, 11 and 30 all had 4-5 bar signals all the time.

I live in Overland, MO, and I have a small HDTV antenna mounted on my roof, and I'm using a Vbox Cat's Eye Digital tuner in my Vista Media Center computer. Again, this setup has been sufficient for over a year, and channels 2 and 11 are just fine. I just don't know why I would all of a sudden have a problem with signal strength on channels 4, 5 and 30?

Thanks,
Douglas

Left Jeff

12-04-07, 12:42 PM

I'll just throw out two possibilities, as I am still somewhat of newbie myself to OTA.

1). The wind bumped your antenna slightly

2.) The loss of leaves has somehow messed up your LOS...maybe the signals before were "bouncing around" before they were picked up by your antenna. Now that leaves are gone there's a more clear shot??? Usually the leaves going away improves the signal, but I guess, in theory, if your antenna was slightly off to began with maybe you were picking up a "second" signal instead of the main one?

Dan in St. Louis

12-04-07, 01:28 PM

Rain invaded connectors?
Wind pulled on connectors?
Squirrels chewed on cable?

tstolze

12-04-07, 01:51 PM

I almost have my room finished, all I have left is trim and to finish my back counter. All my electronics are in and we are very happy with the picture and sound.

Now that I am moving forward I am looking for advice to control my XP computer with my Harmony 890 remote. The pc is connected to my Denon 3808 with HDMI for video and optical for the sound. I have walked to the other room and run whatever I want to see with no problems.

I know I will need an additional IR repeater to put near the PC. I am lost on software, I assume I will need software that comes with an ir receiver. I have no need for any DVR features as I have a Dish 722 receiver for that purpose. I will be playing back HD/Blu-ray movies along with any movies that may be stored on my hard drive. Thanks!

Here is a picture, the light on the screen is from my windows, I had the blinds open when I took the picture. I am still waiting on 1 seat also...

PenDragon

12-04-07, 03:11 PM

2.) The loss of leaves has somehow messed up your LOS.

It's been working for more than a year straight, with no seasonal effects experienced in that time, so I don't think that is it.

However, I think your first suggestion, as well as Dan's suggestions, sound good. I eyeballed the antenna on my roof, and it looks perfect. I guess I need to get a ladder and go up there to examine it more closely. I also intend to hook directly into the digital tuner on my TV, just to make sure the problem isn't with the reception hardware. i would expect a minor variance, but if the TV's tuner is consistently good and the Vbox on the computer isn't, I'll chalk it up to hardware gone bad. However, it would make more sense for the problem to be with the hardware constantly exposed to the elements.

After examining the antenna and running the signal to the TV, I'll post my results.

Left Jeff

12-05-07, 09:37 AM

well what I am saying is that if there is any interference between you in the towers...even way off your property like a new building or a tree that shot up like crazy...you could be getting a multipath signal and your antenna was picking up the "ghosting" or secondary signal. But now that the leaves are down, the signals bounces around less and your antenna is no longer aimed for the best reception.

Anyway, its just one theory.

PenDragon

12-05-07, 04:24 PM

Well, since you put it that way Jeff, I definitely see where you are coming from :). Questioning logic is my nature as a geek, I guess...

Well, I tried watching a few minutes of Leno on Channel 5 last night through my computer, and it was really choppy and pretty much unwatchable. Other channels were just fine at that given time, but the signal strength meter on my computer was still complaining about 4, 5 and 11. I then hooked the antenna up to the tuner on my TV, and every channel came in perfect, including 5. All signal strengths were showing 80-100% on each channel as well. So...it appears that the problem lies with my computer- somehow. I just don't understand why... Anyway, I'm going to post this now in the HTPC forum area of the site since I've narrowed down the focus, but I'll also check for replies here, if anybody in St. Louis has a response.

Thanks,
Douglas

moman19

12-05-07, 08:32 PM

Perhaps the wind has blown your antenna slightly off target???? Not sure which model you have but a few degrees might just make a difference.

Dan in St. Louis

12-05-07, 09:57 PM

So...it appears that the problem lies with my computer
Still, don't discount connectors. Moving cables around fiddles with the connectors, so try wiggling cables near the connection and see if the trouble comes and goes.

Lucid504

12-06-07, 12:19 PM

Tonight on Contact 2, On FOX 2

HDTV Cables

They're the cables that get you connected to HDTV – but boy are they expensive!

Tonight in Contact 2 - cutting through the hype to get you the cables you need, without breaking the bank

tstolze

12-06-07, 12:32 PM

Tonight on Contact 2, On FOX 2

HDTV Cables

Tonight in Contact 2 - cutting through the hype to get you the cables you need, without breaking the bank

Monoprice! :D ;)

Scott Tucker

12-06-07, 03:51 PM

Monoprice! :D ;)

X2 :D My 35' HDMI cable is sending sat to my DLP flawlessly.

Lucid504

12-06-07, 04:40 PM

Yeah i know about monoprice i just wonder if they will mention them or not so ive got my dvr set to record it thank god i got an antenna hooked to my tv because im also recording that Barbara Walters special tonight,the fox 2 news segment and watching ER OTA.

Mookie11

12-06-07, 06:37 PM

U-verse available
Great, I just got my Tivo HD 2 weeks ago and now U-verse is offered in my area. I live in the Sunset Hills area. It seems like a good deal but I think that the Tivo only works well with cable. Does anybody know for sure?

jdiehl

12-06-07, 07:13 PM

X2 :D My 35' HDMI cable is sending sat to my DLP flawlessly.

3rd.

Using 35' HDMI and 25' component cables from Monoprice (the cheapest/lowest guage too) to feed my front projector (HD DVR and Xbox 360). No issues at all.

Lucid504

12-07-07, 12:06 AM

They recommended ShowMeCables....They also say you should buy expensive cables if its over 35 feet and that you need expensive cables to play 1080p games.

DroptheRemote

12-07-07, 12:32 PM

Lucid504

12-07-07, 01:53 PM

This news is a couple of days old, but still should be interesting here...

Charter Ups HD Channels to 44 in Louisiana (http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6510277.html?nid=3347)

It appears that Wealth TV was just the tip of the iceberg... ;)

The only reason they can get that many hd channels is because of the hurricane and the fact they had to rebuild the systems.

MSloss

12-07-07, 04:25 PM

The only reason they can get that many hd channels is because of the hurricane and the fact they had to rebuild the systems.

I have to pass along this story. I was visiting my mother in Baton Rouge for Thanksgiving and wanted to verify the new Olevia 37" set she had purchased over the summer was really getting HD. They have Cox cable there and she just has basic. My brother-in-law had connected the cable to the TV and reported that she was getting HD locals. When I got there the first thing I noticed was the locals were really stretched SD. I rescanned to see if it would pick up any QAM signals, and to my surprise there were 24 digital stations it picked up. Not only were all the Baton Rouge locals available in HD, she was getting most of New Orleans stations as well. Down there almost every station has its own multicast weather channel, so that filled out most of the rest of what she was getting.

I tried talking her into upgrading to an HD DVR from Cox, but she was happy with that setup.

Mike

Geaux LSU Tigers!

PenDragon

12-07-07, 07:31 PM

Thanks for the suggestions, moman and dan. I plan to go up on the roof and check the antenna and connectors this weekend, weather permitting *checking forecast: outlook not so good :) *

jerel

12-08-07, 10:47 AM

U-Verse is ATT's new cableTV through the intertubes (internet), right?

jerel

Dan in St. Louis

12-08-07, 11:21 AM

*checking forecast: outlook not so good :) *
Well, at least you can check the INDOOR connectors! Give 'em the old wiggle test.

Lucid504

12-09-07, 02:56 AM

U-Verse is ATT's new cableTV through the intertubes (internet), right?

jerel
its through fiber optics.

phatty

12-09-07, 10:20 AM

paxi

12-09-07, 11:25 AM

U-verse goes over dsl but not the internet as it stays local on AT&Ts network... i wouldnt say over fiber because thats what Verizon Fios is doing where as AT&T is just doing a hybrid of bringing the fiber to the neighbourhood and dsl to your home.... Similar to the same network topology that Charter put in place many years ago using fiber to the neighbourhood and coax into the homes....

just in case anyone is interested in this, I suggest that you check out

www.uverseusers.com

Sorry for the bad pun, but after reading through the forums, it doesn't look its quite ready for primetime especially for HD.

http://www.uverseusers.com/component/option,com_smf/Itemid,2/topic,2821.0/

Will be nice to have some extra competition though.

Left Jeff

12-10-07, 08:06 AM

kjohnson

12-10-07, 10:50 AM

kjohnson

12-10-07, 11:11 AM

U-Verse isn't available in my neighborhood (South City by the Botanical Garden), yet. I take it you're more likely to have it neighborhoods with a lot of new construction, right?

DroptheRemote

12-10-07, 11:23 AM

Here's some additional info from dslreports.com on the launch of AT&T's U-verse in the St. Louis area:
___________________________________________________________

AT&T Launches U-Verse in St. Louis

AT&T has launched their U-Verse VDSL-based IPTV service in portions of the St. Louis area, including St. Louis, Ballwin, Bridgeton, Chesterfield, Clayton, Creve Coeur, Florissant, Kirkwood, Maryland Heights, Mehlville, Oakville, Olivette, Sappington, Shrewsbury, St. Charles, St. Peters, University City and Webster Groves. A leaked internal launch schedule obtained by Broadband Reports originally had the St. Louis market slated for November 5.

Additional detail on DVR rentals, their channel lineup and AT&T's qualification tool are available at the U-Verse website. As always, your questions about the service can be answered by the helpful folks in our U-Verse forum. Also, take a look at our U-Verse users availability map. The pricing and particulars, in case you've been napping:

Broadband speeds:
•Elite: 6Mbps/1Mbps
•Pro: 3Mbps/1Mbps
•Express: 1.5Mbps/1Mbps

Channel lineups:
•U-Family: 50 channels, $44
•U100: 100 channels, $44
•U200: 190 channels, $59
•U300: 240 channels, 34 premium channels, $79
•U400: 300 channels, 49 premium channels, $99

Bundles (Express/Pro/Elite per month):
•U-family: $59/$64/$74
•U100: $59/$64/$74
•U200: $74/$79/$89
•U300: $94/$99/$109
•U400: $114/$119/$129
___________________________________________________________

Mr_Bester

12-10-07, 12:06 PM

I've been trying to get my mother-in-law off charter for 4 years, unfortunately, it's not available in her area of Ballwin yet :(

Sudhakar2k

12-10-07, 03:44 PM

Here's a list of HD Channels available in St. Louis through U-verse. Got them directly for AT&T's website. There are 34 HD channels available in total, 24 available if you take the free local channels and the repeat premium channels.

1002 KTVI-HD-2 (FOX)
1004 KMOV-HD-4 (CBS)
1005 KSDK-HD-5 (NBC)
1009 KETC-HD-9 (PBS)
1011 KPLR-HD-11 (THE CW)
1030 KDNL-HD-30 (ABC)

1166 Arts & Entertainment HD
1650 Big Ten Network HD
1832 Cinemax HD
1833 Cinemax HD - West
1602 ESPN HD
1606 ESPN2 HD
1748 FSN Midwest HD
1452 Food Network HD
1802 HBO HD
1803 HBO HD - West
1102 HD Theater
1105 HDNet
1106 HDNet Movies
1450 HGTV HD
1362 Lifetime Movie Network HD
1502 MHD
1630 NFL Network HD
1265 National Geographic Channel HD
1852 Showtime HD
1853 Showtime HD - West
1902 Starz HD
1903 Starz HD - West
1112 TBS HD
1108 TNT HD
1270 The History Channel HD
1882 The Movie Channel HD
1104 Universal HD
1470 Wealth TV HD

RaceTripper

12-10-07, 04:17 PM

epalau

12-10-07, 06:29 PM

Off-topic post but I figured some regular on here would know...

A friend has asked me to help setup a wireless network at his house for the purpose of sharing an internet connection. While I have plenty of experience with building computers from scratch, I've never had to learn networking. He has charter cable internet service so I told him to check with them - he came back that they charge $7 a month and a $100 installation fee.

My question to everyone is - can't I buy some random $50 wireless router from Best Buy to put after the cable modem and share the connection through that? The other computers besides the one main household computer that currently is wired to the cable modem are 2 laptops their jobs require them to have that have a 802.11b wireless card in them. I'm not sure where the monthly fee would come in except if that replaces the cable modem rental fee.

comp1040

12-10-07, 07:37 PM

gothamcity

12-10-07, 08:44 PM

Left Jeff

12-11-07, 10:04 AM

I've had no issues (other than WRBU-DT...really weak signal), Left Jeff. KTVI & KDNL occassionally drop PSIP data, but usually retuning (i.e. 43 & 31 respectively) fixes it. Let me know if that helps.

Just to clarify...it wasn't the PSIP data...there was no signal. I was just pointing out that D* didn't have channel information either.

I'll assume it was something with the weather...it's back now, but the signal is lower than normal and my other channels haven't dropped in strength.

Also:
Yeah the weak signal of WRBU sucks. As I plan to go OTA-only in the new year, I will miss the channel, not because of its HD programming, but because of its content...stupid shows like Cheaters and Jail, some reruns and its MMA programs (IFL and UFC Wired). As of now, I can't get it at all. I'd hate to pay out money on running new RG6 cables, installing a pre-amp and possibly replacing my old attic antenna...but dropping $150 or so bucks for MyTV doesn't seem worth it. But then again, my setup is pretty ghetto, so maybe I should make it "proper".

Anyways, does anyone know if they plan on increasing power or even changing tower locations? I would think it would stupid of them to keep things as they are now after the analog shut-off.

kjohnson

12-11-07, 10:34 AM

Just to clarify...it wasn't the PSIP data...there was no signal. I was just pointing out that D* didn't have channel information either.

I'll assume it was something with the weather...it's back now, but the signal is lower than normal and my other channels haven't dropped in strength.

Also:
Yeah the weak signal of WRBU sucks. As I plan to go OTA-only in the new year, I will miss the channel, not because of its HD programming, but because of its content...stupid shows like Cheaters and Jail, some reruns and its MMA programs (IFL and UFC Wired). As of now, I can't get it at all. I'd hate to pay out money on running new RG6 cables, installing a pre-amp and possibly replacing my old attic antenna...but dropping $150 or so bucks for MyTV doesn't seem worth it. But then again, my setup is pretty ghetto, so maybe I should make it "proper".

Anyways, does anyone know if they plan on increasing power or even changing tower locations? I would think it would stupid of them to keep things as they are now after the analog shut-off.

You want ghetto? Indoor Zenith Silver Sensor (on a metal Bookcase). LOL.

Seriously though, WRBU's signal is weaker than KNLC's, and KNLC's tower is much farther south. On occasion, KNLC actually has a pretty good movie on.

General Question: Is there anyway to boost the receiving range for a laptop HDTV tuner (expresscard)? I can't get either KNLC or WRBU with it, but KDNL, KETC, KMOV, KSDK, & KTVI come in strong.

An a note on U-Verse: Does any part of the City have it? "St. Louis" is a tad generic, when it could refer to unincorp St. Louis County or the City of St. Louis. Also, does U-Verse have KETC's subchannels, or KSDK's?

bluedevil23

12-11-07, 10:37 AM

Left Jeff

12-11-07, 11:49 AM

You want ghetto? Indoor Zenith Silver Sensor (on a metal Bookcase). LOL.

Seriously though, WRBU's signal is weaker than KNLC's, and KNLC's tower is much farther south. On occasion, KNLC actually has a pretty good movie on.

That's strange, because I get KNLC no problem.

BTW...my ghetto setup is an attic antenna that was in the house when I bought it. It's gotta be at least 20 years old, if not 30. The antenna appears to not be pointed or aimed and is resting on the rafters. The cable run is obviously not RG6. It runs from the attic to the basement and is not even long enough to reach the living room. So I have a cheap Phillips in-line amplifer/distributer (with a termination cap on the unused line).

I'll see how sensitive the TivoHD tuner is and then I'll go from there in regards to replacing and moving stuff.

I'm hesitant to change anything...even if its "ghetto" just because of the axiom "if ain't broke..."

Left Jeff

12-11-07, 11:52 AM

A little OT here as this is all about internet...

I noticed the DSL speeds on the U-Verse literature all say 1Mbps upstream. I have no intention of ordering U-Verse when it comes available, but will ordinary DSL customers be eligible for the increased DSL speeds? That would be very nice.

Also, interesting article in the PD the other day that AT&T will be offering true naked DSL service. I will be signing up ASAP so I can ditch the phone that I pay for and don't use. Happy times!

http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/columnists.nsf/savvyconsumer/story/742FF0A5BE46750C862573AA001771FD?OpenDocument

You know how the Savvy Consumer is also talking about how people can't sign up for "$10 DSL" or the "Uselect3" plans? They can't find it or whatever...

Those people are retards.

My in-laws signed up for the $10 plan no problem.

And I switched to the Uselect3 no problem as well.

But after speaking with in-laws how easy it was for them, and knowing that I switched mine in less than 5 minutes, I have to wonder what is wrong with people.

fuzzball

12-11-07, 07:11 PM

Hey guys...about to make the jump from Charter to D*. On one place on their website it shows the golf channel in HD only available in the Premier package. Another area shows it available in HD in the package below the premier....I thinks it's called choice xtra plus hd-dvr. Can anyone confirm this? Do I need to go all the way to premier to get Golf HD?

Thanks for the help.

Scott

fuzzball

12-11-07, 08:11 PM

mgr_stl

12-11-07, 08:15 PM

With the E* VIP-622, you can use an ethernet connection instead of hooking up to a phone line to avoid the $5 fee.

fuzzball

12-11-07, 09:13 PM

With the E* VIP-622, you can use an ethernet connection instead of hooking up to a phone line to avoid the $5 fee.
Do you mean a direct connection from your router to the 622 via ethernat cable or a phone type line to your voip converter box (the little box from vonage that plugs into the router to give you a dial tone)

What is the $5 fee....sorry, I'm new to this satellite stuff.
Does the 722 have this capability??

thanks

fuzzball

12-11-07, 09:30 PM

So I see the phone line is not required....is the $5 added to all PPV orders without phone connection?

ORLANDO, Fla. -- A group of DirectTV satellite technicians who have installed systems in homes across Central Florida sought out the Problem Solvers to fight back against a company policy they say creates an environment where lying to customers is part of the job, according to an investigation.

A large group of DirectTV technicians traveled to Local 6 studios to talk about being pressured to sell systems connected to phone lines.

The technicians said their supervisors have been putting pressure on them by deducting $5 from their paychecks for every DirectTV receiver that's not connected to a phone line, the report said.

They admit, they've lied to customers along the way," Local 6 reporter Nancy Alvarez said.

"If we don't lie to the customers, we get back charged for it and we don't make money," a technician said.

Local 6 News reported that phone lines are not necessary for a DirectTV system but having them enhances the service -- allowing customers to order movies through a remote control instead of through the phone or over the Internet.

But the report found that every phone line connected to a receiver means more money for DirectTV and Mastec -- the contractor these men work for, Alvarez said.

"So, it's just a convenience?" Alvarez asked.

"Yeah, it's more convenient than anything else," a technician said.

"We go to a home that needs three receivers that's $15," a technician said.

The group said supervisors have ordered them to do or say whatever it takes to avoid a deduction on their paychecks, the report said.

"Tell the customer whatever you have to tell them," technician Frank Martinez said. "Tell them if these phone lines are not connected, the receiver will blow up."

"You've been told to tell them that?" Alvarez asked.

"We've been told to say that," Martinez said. "(And say) whatever it takes to get that phone line in the receiver."

The report uncovered that the apparent lie could cost customers big money.

The fee to have a phone line installed could be as high at $52 per room. A wireless phone jack will cost another $50.

Managers at Mastec's Orlando office did not want to comment on the report.

"We're hoping to talk to you guys about some concerns raised by your employees." Alvarez said.

"Guys, I need you to walk out of the office, this is a private office," an office worker said.

"Are you asking employees to lie to customers?" Alvarez asked.

The officer worker did not answer Alvarez's question.

Local 6 News reported that statements from the Mastec and DirectTV corporate offices make it clear that the policy of deducting money from employees' paychecks will continue.

A DirectTV spokesman said techs who don't hook up phone lines are "denying customers the full benefit and function of their DirectTV System," Alvarez said.

"The men (at the studio) disagree," Alvarez said. The group said the policy has done nothing but create an environment where lying to customers is part of the job, she said.

"It's either lie or lose money?" Alvarez asked.

"We don't have a choice," a technician said.

During the Local 6 News investigation, Mastec decided to reimburse money to some technicians who had met a certain quota but the policy continues.

"One reason (for the policy) could be that DirectTV does keep track of their customers' viewing habits through the phone line," Alvarez said.

Last year, DirectTV paid out a $5 million settlement with Florida and 21 other states for deceptive practices.

Now, because of the Local 6 News story, the attorney general's office looking into this newest issue, Alvarez said.

Watch Local 6 News for more on this story.

Copyright 2007 by Internet Broadcasting Systems and Local6.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

PinkSplice

12-11-07, 11:12 PM

That's strange, because I get KNLC no problem.

BTW...my ghetto setup is an attic antenna that was in the house when I bought it. It's gotta be at least 20 years old, if not 30. The antenna appears to not be pointed or aimed and is resting on the rafters. The cable run is obviously not RG6. It runs from the attic to the basement and is not even long enough to reach the living room. So I have a cheap Phillips in-line amplifer/distributer (with a termination cap on the unused line).

I'll see how sensitive the TivoHD tuner is and then I'll go from there in regards to replacing and moving stuff.

I'm hesitant to change anything...even if its "ghetto" just because of the axiom "if ain't broke..."

LJ, WRBU bears approximately 225 degrees magnetic at a range of about forty miles from Edwardsville. It's outdoor antenna time. Any decent medium range UHF antenna should do (DB-4, CM 4221). Break down, and get some RG-6 quad-shield. Point any of those southwesterly, and you should get solid locks on everything. A cheap 5 foot mast, a pipe mount, seal the connectors well, and you're good for the next twenty years. Run the line to a distribution amp, and life is even better, for more rooms.

I'm in awe of KJ's Faraday Cage setup. I still have a spare DB-2. They mount easily to walls.

It is extremly unlikely that WRBU will change transmitter sites. I've got terrain and trees on WRBU's/KNLC's bearing, and sometimes my monster 4228 won't pick them up. WRBU transmits at a puny 109 KW ERP, not enough to create a decent diffraction zone pickup. KNLC gets it's power turned off, or other mishaps occur on an unpredictable basis.

When the infomercial/religious LPTV's have better coverage than you do, it's humiliating. Especially 33 and 51 on the Resurrection Cemetery tower...

PinkSplice

12-11-07, 11:17 PM

You know how the Savvy Consumer is also talking about how people can't sign up for "$10 DSL" or the "Uselect3" plans? They can't find it or whatever...

Those people are retards.

My in-laws signed up for the $10 plan no problem.

And I switched to the Uselect3 no problem as well.

But after speaking with in-laws how easy it was for them, and knowing that I switched mine in less than 5 minutes, I have to wonder what is wrong with people.

I just got the $10 deal for myself. 670 down-speed, so far. I'm getting it for my mom at her place as well. No hassles in setup.

When two cheap Scots like us ditch dialup for broadband, game over. Both of us ditched Charter some time ago.

bluedevil23

12-12-07, 12:05 AM

One other quick question....I'm a "cell phone only" household and I would assume D* and E* both require a land line so I was wondering if they would work with a Voip type setup such as Vonage or Charter??

Thanks again....

Scott

I have a D* 622 and it works fine with Vonage. As was mentioned you can also use the ethernet port to hook the box to the internet and avoid the phone line that way as well. That also gives you access to the online movie rentals.

fuzzball

12-12-07, 12:38 AM

I have a D* 622 and it works fine with Vonage. As was mentioned you can also use the ethernet port to hook the box to the internet and avoid the phone line that way as well. That also gives you access to the online movie rentals.

Thanks for the info. I may just skip the phone line all together anyway. If I do not have the phone line how are firmware/software updates received? Ethernet,downloaded from the satellite, or phone only?

Any ideas...

Thanks

Mr_Bester

12-12-07, 08:34 AM

Left Jeff

12-12-07, 09:45 AM

LJ, WRBU bears approximately 225 degrees magnetic at a range of about forty miles from Edwardsville. It's outdoor antenna time. Any decent medium range UHF antenna should do (DB-4, CM 4221). Break down, and get some RG-6 quad-shield. Point any of those southwesterly, and you should get solid locks on everything. A cheap 5 foot mast, a pipe mount, seal the connectors well, and you're good for the next twenty years. Run the line to a distribution amp, and life is even better, for more rooms.

I'm in awe of KJ's Faraday Cage setup. I still have a spare DB-2. They mount easily to walls.

It is extremly unlikely that WRBU will change transmitter sites. I've got terrain and trees on WRBU's/KNLC's bearing, and sometimes my monster 4228 won't pick them up. WRBU transmits at a puny 109 KW ERP, not enough to create a decent diffraction zone pickup. KNLC gets it's power turned off, or other mishaps occur on an unpredictable basis.

When the infomercial/religious LPTV's have better coverage than you do, it's humiliating. Especially 33 and 51 on the Resurrection Cemetery tower...

What do you think the chances are of pulling off success with an attic antenna? Like if I went with DB4 or 8 or even a CM version? My antenna is obviously a VHF/UHF, so if I went with UHF bay?

I know Budshark got 46.1 in with an attic antenna (a 110" winegard if I remember correctly), but he lived in a part of Edwardsville that is pretty barren tree-wise. I live in the old part of town and there are lots of trees...including two big-ass ones on each side of my house. I mean they are right there. Also my roof is very steep...safely getting to the top would be challenging. I don't see an outside antenna as being an option for me. I am not comfortable going up there and I am not for sure who I would contact to install it properly or if I would even want to pay for it.

I do plan on upgrading all the stuff starting with the cable run...my Samsung STB will actually "recognize" that 46.1 exists and even gets one measiy bar in from time to time...I've even seen a picture flicker on there once or twice. I feel I'm close, maybe a slightly better OTA tuner in the Tivo, a cable run with less loss and a preamp will do the trick?

Left Jeff

12-12-07, 09:47 AM

what is KJ's "Faraday Cage" setup???

MizzouTiger

12-12-07, 10:53 AM

So I see the phone line is not required....is the $5 added to all PPV orders without phone connection?

You can avoid th $5 PPV without a phone line by ordering on-line through the DirecTv website after you set up your account. I haven't tried it, but my understanding is that when you order PPV on-line, the PPV movie is then available on ALL of your receivers for 1 price. If you have a phone line connected to your receiver and order PPV through it, the PPV movie will only be available on that specific receiver.

Closet Geek

12-12-07, 11:52 AM

This has been my experience.

MoInSTL

12-12-07, 01:28 PM

anybody know anything going on with PBS?

yesterday I had no guide data, for both OTA and D*.

I had D*'s SD local, but no channels OTA (through my Samsung STB).

Today I'm getting it in, but the signal is way low...like 1 and 2 bars.

All other channels are fine, so I am assuming its some issue with KETC?

Last night when I tuned to 9-1 I got a black screen and searching for signal. I checked my sat tuners and then OTA. I tried to get 9-1 again and it was solid. I have to think the low clouds and fog may be the issue as 9-1 always comes in strong. Btw, I did have guide data.

MoInSTL

12-12-07, 01:32 PM

One other quick question....I'm a "cell phone only" household and I would assume D* and E* both require a land line so I was wondering if they would work with a Voip type setup such as Vonage or Charter??

Thanks again....

Scott

D* only requires a phone line for PPV using your remote. They now update the firmware via satellite on the new boxes.

fuzzball

12-12-07, 02:00 PM

Just a heads up. the people talking about the "622" are using dish network and not D*(DirecTv).
Golf channel is included in lower packages, we have the old plus package and we get it HD and SD. Also, you don't need a land line. There is no additional charge to you.
dug

Thanks....I am leaning towards D* but didn't want to go all the way to the premier pkg. I see the difference now between 622/722 and hr-20/21.

Scott

fuzzball

12-12-07, 02:05 PM

You can avoid th $5 PPV without a phone line by ordering on-line through the DirecTv website after you set up your account. I haven't tried it, but my understanding is that when you order PPV on-line, the PPV movie is then available on ALL of your receivers for 1 price. If you have a phone line connected to your receiver and order PPV through it, the PPV movie will only be available on that specific receiver.

Perfect. I do order PPV boxing sometimes so will be doing it online with D*.

Can we still get firmware updates without a phone line? Searched the forum and many months ago someone said the phone line was needed to trigger but the data came from the satellite. Is this still the case?

Thanks for all the help everyone!!

fuzzball

12-12-07, 02:07 PM

oops sorry...just saw MoInSTL's answer about the firmware updates.....

Thanks

Art Lloyd

12-12-07, 02:09 PM

Scott Tucker

12-12-07, 03:57 PM

Fuzzball, I have Directv and don't see on my guide any Golf Channel in HD. Who said Directv had The Golf Channel in HD? If they do, I am missing it.

Scott

tonycsmoke

12-12-07, 04:39 PM

phatty

12-12-07, 04:43 PM

This may have been covered. If so, I aplogise. Yesterday I called AT&T to ask about their HD TV service, U-Verse, I believe. I was informed that one could watch only one HD program at a time. That is one in the whole house! The AT&T fellow was amazed that we might have a habit of watching more than one HD show at one time. I told him that we have half a dozen Hd displays and that we might be watching three different programs and even recording more. What an incredible limitation. Art

Yeah I have to say its that limitation that has me just laughing when I see so much hype around this new service.. 1 HD stream is not enough at all. I need 2 minimum, and honestly I sometimes wish my Moxi had 3 tuners to cover all the shows that sometimes need to record in a single night. I do believe though that if you don't have an HD tv to care about that the dvr can record from all 4 streams at the same time if you wanted.. Thats a nice bonus feature..

U-Verse is such a joke its sad.. They are copying off the same network Charter put in place 7+years ago only using copper and dsl instead of Coax like Charter.. They are really screwing them self for cheaping out and not going the Fios style route.

-Phatty

Mr_Bester

12-12-07, 04:56 PM

Fuzzball, I have Directv and don't see on my guide any Golf Channel in HD. Who said Directv had The Golf Channel in HD? If they do, I am missing it.

Scott

Do you have the HR20/21? If so, it is channel 605-1 it is VS/Golf shared HD, they play golf sometimes(mostly uprezzed with 2 hd cameras or hockey/sports HD)

Dug

dweebe

12-12-07, 05:57 PM

I know: wrong thread, but I thought everyone needed a good deep belly laugh.

Charter Named Operator of the Year by CableWorld Magazine

http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=112298&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1086703&highlight=

Charter Named Operator of the Year by CableWorld Magazine
ST. LOUIS, Dec 12, 2007 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: CHTR) today announced it has accepted recognition as Multi-System Operator (MSO) of the Year by CableWorld Magazine, a publication of Access Intelligence, LLC. The MSO of the Year cover story will appear in the December 17, 2007 edition of CableWorld magazine.
Charter's Chief Technology Officer, Marwan Fawaz, accepted the award today at a luncheon in New York and said, "We are honored to receive such recognition. We have made significant strides in improving our operations, yet everyone in our organization understands there is much work to be done. This award helps affirm our belief that we are headed in the right direction."

CableWorld cited a number of noteworthy accomplishments as rationale for choosing Charter to receive this recognition. Charter has addressed its nearest-term debt maturities; Charter has rapidly expanded its telephone footprint to take advantage of the triple-play offering; and Charter has developed a consistent, data-driven marketing plan.

Neil Smit, President and Chief Executive Officer of Charter, said, "This is a tremendous honor and it speaks to the efforts of over 16,000 Charter employees. At Charter we are focused on delivering a quality end-to-end customer experience and providing an exceptional value through the Charter Bundle. This focus has contributed to improving the Company's performance and that is something of which all our employees should be proud."

I wonder if CableWorlds' sister magazines will be doing the following?
-ParentWorld naming Britney Spears parent of the year
-PetWorld naming Michael Vick dog owner of the year
-BaseballWorld naming Scott Rolen team player of the year

jdiehl

12-12-07, 08:33 PM

Anyone else with Centurytel DSL having issues the past day or two?

My 6Mbps line is maxing out around 900Kbps (yesterday, when the slowdown started) and tonight it's only 200Kbps and barely even usable (hello 1995!).

I called the DSL tech that hooked me up last time (downgrading from 10Mbps to 6Mbps for stability) and he told me that he had 30 trouble tickets today from slow speed.... and it was all on their end, not inside the house.

Didn't really have an ETA for me either on when they would get it fixed. GRRRRR

fuzzball

12-12-07, 10:04 PM

Fuzzball, I have Directv and don't see on my guide any Golf Channel in HD. Who said Directv had The Golf Channel in HD? If they do, I am missing it.

Scott

Sounds like it is some sort of shared channel. Maybe only golf when HD content is being broadcast.....(HD sort of) but still better than my current situation with Charter.

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=101067

Mr_Bester

12-12-07, 11:09 PM

Do you have the HR20/21? If so, it is channel 605-1 it is VS/Golf shared HD, they play golf sometimes(mostly uprezzed with 2 hd cameras or hockey/sports HD)

Dug

Sorry, that was 604-1
dug

marky2306

12-13-07, 12:17 AM

I know: wrong thread, but I thought everyone needed a good deep belly laugh.

Charter Named Operator of the Year by CableWorld Magazine

http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=112298&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1086703&highlight=

I wonder if CableWorlds' sister magazines will be doing the following?
-ParentWorld naming Britney Spears parent of the year
-PetWorld naming Michael Vick dog owner of the year
-BaseballWorld naming Scott Rolen team player of the year

Cableworld. Ummm... Dec 10 2007 is their last issue.

Cable World to Cease Publication
http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6498123.html

tstolze

12-13-07, 01:24 AM

jdiehl

12-13-07, 01:33 AM

No problems here(near St. Paul)

I did finally get a reply from home office about the 10 meg problems. Seems they may try to apply a fix in our area sometime in the spring... :confused: ;)

Finally got back up to speed. Looks like it was just a 2 day problem that's now gone.

bluedevil23

12-13-07, 10:01 AM

Thanks for the info. I may just skip the phone line all together anyway. If I do not have the phone line how are firmware/software updates received? Ethernet,downloaded from the satellite, or phone only?

Any ideas...

Thanks

E* updates are also triggered from the sat.

Just a heads up. the people talking about the "622" are using dish network and not D*(DirecTv).
Golf channel is included in lower packages, we have the old plus package and we get it HD and SD. Also, you don't need a land line. There is no additional charge to you.
dug

My bad, I meant to put E* in my prior post but had a brain fart.

Scott Tucker

12-13-07, 10:13 AM

Sorry, that was 604-1
dug

Thanks, now that's a high class problem. I never thought I'd have HD channels I didn't know about. :)

Scott

Chazb

12-14-07, 04:17 PM

Fuzzball, I have Directv and don't see on my guide any Golf Channel in HD. Who said Directv had The Golf Channel in HD? If they do, I am missing it.

Scott

605&604 with 604 being the hd channel shared with vrs and the golf channel.

moman19

12-14-07, 06:23 PM

Cableworld. Ummm... Dec 10 2007 is their last issue.

Cable World to Cease Publication
http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6498123.html

Perhaps this was the April 1, issue. :D

PinkSplice

12-15-07, 05:52 AM

What do you think the chances are of pulling off success with an attic antenna? Like if I went with DB4 or 8 or even a CM version? My antenna is obviously a VHF/UHF, so if I went with UHF bay?

I know Budshark got 46.1 in with an attic antenna (a 110" winegard if I remember correctly), but he lived in a part of Edwardsville that is pretty barren tree-wise. I live in the old part of town and there are lots of trees...including two big-ass ones on each side of my house. I mean they are right there. Also my roof is very steep...safely getting to the top would be challenging. I don't see an outside antenna as being an option for me. I am not comfortable going up there and I am not for sure who I would contact to install it properly or if I would even want to pay for it.

I do plan on upgrading all the stuff starting with the cable run...my Samsung STB will actually "recognize" that 46.1 exists and even gets one measiy bar in from time to time...I've even seen a picture flicker on there once or twice. I feel I'm close, maybe a slightly better OTA tuner in the Tivo, a cable run with less loss and a preamp will do the trick?

Ow. Your tree and roof situation *are* challenging. Drop The Remote might be able to suggest a contractor, but you'll be out at least $200. It may be money well spent. No antenna is worth dying for.

All the STL majors are UHF (for DTV). Cable loss reduction is always a good idea. Getting a big UHF-only antenna could work, if your roof/attic do not have metal lined insulation, etc. Be aware that the big UHF antennas are at least forty inches tall and wide. You're far enough out that overload is probably not going to be a problem for the pre-amp, but I would try just better cabling and the big antenna to start. Another advantage is that your distance and position (above the bluffs, I hope) puts all the transmitter antennas in a narrower arc, solving some aiming problems.

A Faraday cage is essentially a "box" that traps/blocks RF. (Your car's chassis is one) By putting his antenna on a metal bookcase, he has placed it in a box that keeps signal OUT of his antenna. The size, and shape of the bookcase determine the frequencies rejected. Plus, KJ lives in an apartment. Loss getting through the walls, plus loss from the Faraday cage- it's amazing he gets the reception he does. AND he's using a laptop card tuner...

I have three HUGE CM 4228's, the lowest of which is at 20 feet AGL(all guyed), a DB-4 on a pipe mount for local reception, plus some stacked arrays inside that have filtering and amplification to deal with my intermod hell. Being an EE, plus extensive military experience with RF has made it possible for me to do some crazy DX'ing with said internal arrays. Yes, I am quite insane.

You can do just fine with one good antenna, and some quality cable. Seriously consider hiring a contractor. And a heavy duty rotor might be a good investment as well, winds and RF conditions being what they are.

Left Jeff

12-15-07, 10:47 AM

Ow. Your tree and roof situation *are* challenging. Drop The Remote might be able to suggest a contractor, but you'll be out at least $200. It may be money well spent. No antenna is worth dying for.

All the STL majors are UHF (for DTV). Cable loss reduction is always a good idea. Getting a big UHF-only antenna could work, if your roof/attic do not have metal lined insulation, etc. Be aware that the big UHF antennas are at least forty inches tall and wide. You're far enough out that overload is probably not going to be a problem for the pre-amp, but I would try just better cabling and the big antenna to start. Another advantage is that your distance and position (above the bluffs, I hope) puts all the transmitter antennas in a narrower arc, solving some aiming problems.

A Faraday cage is essentially a "box" that traps/blocks RF. (Your car's chassis is one) By putting his antenna on a metal bookcase, he has placed it in a box that keeps signal OUT of his antenna. The size, and shape of the bookcase determine the frequencies rejected. Plus, KJ lives in an apartment. Loss getting through the walls, plus loss from the Faraday cage- it's amazing he gets the reception he does. AND he's using a laptop card tuner...

I have three HUGE CM 4228's, the lowest of which is at 20 feet AGL(all guyed), a DB-4 on a pipe mount for local reception, plus some stacked arrays inside that have filtering and amplification to deal with my intermod hell. Being an EE, plus extensive military experience with RF has made it possible for me to do some crazy DX'ing with said internal arrays. Yes, I am quite insane.

You can do just fine with one good antenna, and some quality cable. Seriously consider hiring a contractor. And a heavy duty rotor might be a good investment as well, winds and RF conditions being what they are.

Thanks for the help.

no metal lined insulation. I'm above the bluffs and I am at 30-ish miles for all antennas...I believe antennaweb's recomendation for me is a pre-amp and large directional, FWIW.

Over Christmas vacation I will replace the cabling with quad shield RG6 and see how well the Tivo works and go from there, with antenna being the next step.

Don't get me wrong I want a "proper" setup and I want to get 46.1 in, but investing alot of time and money into get one stupid channel is not really worth it...especially one that isn't even HD.

Faraday cage...please excuse my ignorance, but is he blocking out the signal because he is too close to the towers? Is this like a fancy antenuator? Or is it because of multipath issues with he apartments and buildings?

As far as outside...I really think I'll have more multipath issues and whatnot....too tall of trees, too close.

PinkSplice

12-15-07, 07:26 PM

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faraday_cage

MizzouTiger

12-16-07, 04:54 PM

So what's the deal with the Colts/Raiders game on channel 4? Has someone fallen asleep at the switch at KMOV or is it a CBS thing?

Scott Tucker

12-17-07, 02:38 PM

So what's the deal with the Colts/Raiders game on channel 4? Has someone fallen asleep at the switch at KMOV or is it a CBS thing?

Not sure but I was not happy. :mad:

wmschultz

12-17-07, 04:49 PM

fuzzball

12-18-07, 12:50 AM

What about KSDK's overlay of the school closings during the Sunday Night game that
caused the screen to go black with only the school closings being able to be seen and
the audio of the football game?

That was ridiculous!! Blackouts and audio dropouts constantly. I finally gave up and watched a movie.....

Left Jeff

12-18-07, 01:44 PM

jaymerkramer

12-18-07, 02:34 PM

So I came across this on freecycle yesterday:

"hi i need a card that they used to put in the dishnetwork cable boxes.
i will take the hole box or just the card thanks so much"

So, feeling good natured I thought I'd reply that being given access card is not going to turn on her service.

Her response:

"i need a acess card if you don't have me one then don't reply i know what you just told me i also know more than that it's called hacking so please dont reply if you dont have a access if you do i would love to have it i will even pay for it thanks"

I think she's full of it. I'd admit I don't know everything about hacking, but I find it hard to believe.

With the right box the older Dish Cards do come in very handy for getting free service. I have a friend that has everything unlocked including pay per views via this method.;) There are many of the boxes that were able to do via firmware only but with the new round of Dish changes this last month many are having to go back to the hacked cards making certain revisions very valuable to posses.

twombomber

12-19-07, 06:48 PM

She should get the boot from Freecycle. No offers of payment permitted-hence the name!

Left Jeff

12-20-07, 09:19 AM

She should get the boot from Freecycle. No offers of payment permitted-hence the name!

I agree. Plus I thought she was pretty freakin' rude.

The big reason I thought she full of it was because I found it hard to believe that someone "smart enough" to hack satellite service wouldn't need to beg for an access card on Freecycle. And to admit she is breaking the law to stranger and breaking the rules of Freecycle. "Bold" to say the least.

tcfila

12-20-07, 10:52 AM

Tell her you reported her to the FCC or whatever agency handles that. See how polite she gets after that...

bhornberger

12-20-07, 08:34 PM

Anyone watching tonights football game on Charter 782? Where is the wide screen and the hd looks bad...

RaceTripper

12-20-07, 08:40 PM

Anyone watching tonights football game on Charter 782? Where is the wide screen and the hd looks bad...It's in crap definition mode on D* as well. No HD, not even widescreen. Somebody fell asleep.

Mrtraveler01

12-20-07, 08:41 PM

I was wondering that too because I know that NFL Network has an HD feed but yet KTVI isn't showing it in HD.

RaceTripper

12-20-07, 08:45 PM

I was wondering that too because I know that NFL Network has an HD feed but yet KTVI isn't showing it in HD.D* has on 95 and on NFLHD.

Mrtraveler01

12-20-07, 09:23 PM

Unfortunately I have charter and KTVI is the only way I can watch this game.

kjohnson

12-21-07, 11:04 AM

KDNL (Digital) appears to be on the blink. Can anybody confirm?

Scott Tucker

12-21-07, 01:28 PM

It's in crap definition mode on D* as well. No HD, not even widescreen. Somebody fell asleep.

What? I got it it HD. and it looked flawless on 212.

Scott Tucker

12-21-07, 01:30 PM

KDNL (Digital) appears to be on the blink. Can anybody confirm?

Mine is working.

RaceTripper

12-21-07, 01:30 PM

What? I got it it HD. and it looked flawless on 212.I was talking about FOX. Yes, it looked OK on 95 and better on NFLHD.

WRacer

12-21-07, 01:59 PM

KDNL (Digital) appears to be on the blink. Can anybody confirm?

We had to turn off the digital and go to low power on the analog for a short time to do some repair work on the antenna.
Jim

Lucid504

12-21-07, 05:25 PM

We had to turn off the digital and go to low power on the analog for a short time to do some repair work on the antenna.
Jim

Can you confirm if ABC is going to be constantly flagged under dolby digital? or is this a mistake?

Isgrimner

12-22-07, 12:03 PM

Saw this posted over on Bernie's Pressbox at stltoday.com

"NEW YORK, Dec 22, 2007 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Oak Hill Capital Partners, a leading private equity firm, announced today that it has agreed to purchase eight News Corporation owned-and-operated FOX network affiliated television stations for approximately $1.1 billion in cash.

The stations include:
-- KDVR in Denver, CO
-- KSTU in Salt Lake City, UT
-- KTVI in St. Louis, MO
-- WBRC in Birmingham, AL
-- WDAF in Kansas City, MO
-- WGHP in Greensboro, NC
-- WITI in Milwaukee, WI
-- WJW in Cleveland, OHThis portfolio will be jointly managed by Local TV, the television platform Oak Hill created earlier this year to acquire nine stations from the New York Times Company.

J. Taylor Crandall, a Managing Partner of Oak Hill Capital Partners, said, "We are very pleased to add this outstanding portfolio of FOX affiliated television stations to the Oak Hill portfolio. These stations, like our existing Local TV television stations, have a strong commitment to providing quality news and serving the local community."

Bobby Lawrence, CEO of Local TV, said, "These are heritage stations in great markets. Their management teams and operations are a perfect fit with Local TV. The stations have an outstanding track record and we look forward to helping them continue their success."

Bobby Lawrence. Part of the team that engineered the Cards buy-in at KTRS.

Media conspirists are now asking, are Cards local TV games moving from 5 to 2 after the sale is closed.... "

hall316

12-22-07, 04:47 PM

I just signed up for DTV and getting rid of my HDTivo. My question is does the HD dvr from Dircectv have an HDMI out?

RaceTripper

12-22-07, 05:58 PM

I just signed up for DTV and getting rid of my HDTivo. My question is does the HD dvr from Dircectv have an HDMI out?
Yes, it does.

I'm getting my third one on Wednesday, along with a new HDTV. :)

Robert Simandl

12-22-07, 06:54 PM

Oak Hill Capital Partners, a leading private equity firm, announced today that it has agreed to purchase eight News Corporation owned-and-operated FOX network affiliated television stations for approximately $1.1 billion in cash.

The stations include:
-- KDVR in Denver, CO
-- KSTU in Salt Lake City, UT
-- KTVI in St. Louis, MO
-- WBRC in Birmingham, AL
-- WDAF in Kansas City, MO
-- WGHP in Greensboro, NC
-- WITI in Milwaukee, WI
-- WJW in Cleveland

Well, there goes channel 88 for us DirecTV subscribers (we get that because KTVI is a Fox O&O, and Fox gave a blanket waiver for its O&O stations).

Kurt K

12-22-07, 11:39 PM

Well, there goes channel 88 for us DirecTV subscribers (we get that because KTVI is a Fox O&O, and Fox gave a blanket waiver for its O&O stations).

There goes watching a good football game when the Rams are on the local station ;)

hall316

12-23-07, 03:28 PM

For those of you with DTV, which HD dvr do you prefer? The HR20 or the HR21 and why. I believe the one they are sending me is the HR20. Am I missing out on anything with the HR20? The rep told me I would be able to use the On Demand with it. Is that true and how is the service? I'm like to get caught up on some of the series on Showtime I've missed since canceling Charter last year.

Thanks

Robert Simandl

12-23-07, 03:53 PM

I have an HR20 and am relatively happy with it (though I still hate the 30 second "slip" instead of a real skip). Far as I know, the only differences are the HR21 is black instead of silver and has no antenna input (so no OTA recording with it).

I prefer the HR20 since I do record KPLR, which is not carried in HD on DirecTV yet, on Thursday nights.

I've not been able to get On Demand working. The option is there, but selecting it does nothing. Other people here have it working just fine with their HR20's, so it's apparently an issue with my setup rather than a DirecTV issue. I have so much recorded stuff piled up waiting to be watched, that I don't particularly care about On Demand right now.

Hope that helps....

jdiehl

12-23-07, 07:18 PM

Scott Tucker

12-23-07, 10:28 PM

I have 2 HR20's and both have the antenna input. If you need antenna, you must get the HR20 since the HR21 has no antenna input.

Scott

DroptheRemote

12-24-07, 09:38 AM

I have one of each now. Got a HR21 delivered yesterday to replace an owned HD Tivo (managed to get my 2nd free HR20/21 in less than 3 months).

The HR21 has no OTA input, so no recording PBS or KPLR in HD.

This wasn't a huge concern for me personally, as I can record either channel on my other HD Tivo or my HR20.

The black looks nice, and I believe it comes with a 320GB HD and not a 300GB HD like the HR20's.

The HR21 has ethernet "pass-thru" which is kinda cool. There are two ethernet connections. One as an input, the other as an output. This means you can use it as a switch and run one CAT-5 to your HR21, then a short CAT-5 from the HR-21 to another internet connected device (video game console, HD DVD player, etc).FWIW, I have the same configuration -- an HD TiVo and an HR21 -- as Jon, and this is working out pretty well for me.

On Saturday I did a way-overdue reordering of the wiring in my rack -- it's closed at the back, apart from a couple of channels for wiring runs, so things can get pretty messy, pretty quick. Afterward, I reorganized my Season Passes between the TiVo and the HR21, by basically limiting the TiVo to just OTA recording. Because I record the last 10 minutes of Leno, Dave and Conan each night (usually these are musical segments), restricting those to the TiVo will ensure that I don't run into any space constraints over the long haul on the HR21 -- this is more important to me now, as I'm regularly out of town for 2-week stretches at a time. I do have duplicate recordings of some of the higher-priority broadcast stuff on the HR21 as a backup.

The other nice thing about dividing up recordings between the two DVRs is that all the SportsCenter repeats are on the HR21 now, which means I'm less likely to have conflicts on the TiVo, making it more reliably accessible for XM listening during the day.

Of course, the main reason I kept my TiVo was my addiction to the live dual buffers and having that as a fallback is nice. Also, I don't really mind the 30-second slip -- it's not all bad to see what I'm skipping over in case I want to check something out, and it doesn't really take THAT much longer. But each to his own addictions, I guess... :)

Anyway, that's just a very long-winded way of saying that for anyone that hasn't yet upgraded to the new receiver/dish for DirecTV, it might be worth negotiating retention of your HD TiVo and using it and the new receiver in tandem in a way that works best for your viewing priorities...

On a slightly different tack -- of the new channels, MGM, MHD, Food and the documentary outposts (History, Smithsonian and NGC) are my early favorites. What I find unacceptable is the new HD channels that take non-HD content, stretch it and call it "High Def" -- "Frank TV," as a new, original TBS production following this practice, earns extra may-the-network-suits-burn-in-hell points. :mad:

BTW, has anyone ever seen ANY HD content on MTV, VH-1 or the Cartoon Network? I have NEVER seen the HD indicator in the guide for any of these channels. I suspect there are other no-HD-at-all offenders, but these are the obvious ones to me.

Happy holidays to everyone here...

Robert Simandl

12-24-07, 09:55 AM

Closet Geek

12-24-07, 10:09 AM

"BTW, has anyone ever seen ANY HD content on MTV, VH-1 or the Cartoon Network? I have NEVER seen the HD indicator in the guide for any of these channels. I suspect there are other no-HD-at-all offenders, but these are the obvious ones to me."

I've never seen anything broadcast in HD on these stations either. That's not to say that I haven't missed anything because I'm not exactly a regular "watcher" of them. I'm new to HD though (less than a week with the H & HR21's) so I'm still trying to sort through the content. For the most part the "offenders" that I'm seeing are those that I call HD Perpatrators...like TNT.

On another note...as it pertains to a 5.1 DD signal. Is this something that's hit or miss like the HD content itself? I'm running optical from the HR21 and my receiver is "recognizing" the 5.1 DD signal but what I'm hearing from my speakers is anything but.

DroptheRemote

12-24-07, 12:19 PM

SciFi-HD doesn't have any HD indicators in its guide, either.... but there's lots of stuff there that's showing in genuine HD.

The cheesy "Sci-Fi Pictures Originals" made in 2007 are nearly all HD. But older ones, even those made in 2006, are still a crapshoot whether they're HD or just upconverts. But at least the upconverts are windowboxed and not stretched.Bob, thanks for pointing out the situation on Sci-Fi. I haven't watched much there as of yet, though I really enjoyed the 2-hour BSG movie that was shown Thanksgiving weekend.

I'll definitely check out some of the other Sci-Fi stuff once I work through the MGM and HDNet movies I've stockpiled for the holiday drought.

WRacer

12-24-07, 02:14 PM

Can you confirm if ABC is going to be constantly flagged under dolby digital? or is this a mistake?

We're experimenting with leaving the switch on 5.1. Turns out some commercials during stereo programs are in 5.1 and therefore lose the center channel dialog. There is no advance notification, so we're unable to switch it. The network has not perfected the system yet! Any input as to how it affects you receiver would be appreciated.
Jim

Dan in St. Louis

12-24-07, 02:25 PM

What I find unacceptable is the new HD channels that take non-HD content, stretch it and call it "High Def"
I am amused by the commercials that are shot in wide format and have black bars added top and bottom for viewing on a 4:3 system -- and then keep THOSE black bars when telecast on a wide-format channel, but have bars ADDED left and right as well to fill the extra space!

Robert Simandl

12-24-07, 02:47 PM

We're experimenting with leaving the switch on 5.1. Turns out some commercials during stereo programs are in 5.1 and therefore lose the center channel dialog. There is no advance notification, so we're unable to switch it. The network has not perfected the system yet! Any input as to how it affects you receiver would be appreciated.
Jim

The problem with leaving the switch at 5.1, as kSDk has demonstrated so well for the last several years, :rolleyes: is that it makes many surround processors unable to kick in the Pro Logic mode with programs recorded in 2.0... which means ALL sound from a 2.0 track comes from the left and right fronts. No center, no rears, and no bass.

I doubt anyone would care if this happened during the commercials, but this sort of thing going on during the program is why I stopped watching Jay Leno altogether several years ago.

We appreciate your looking for input on this... I never got a reply to any of my many e-mails to kSDk complaining about this very issue.

Robert Simandl

12-24-07, 02:51 PM

Bob, thanks for pointing out the situation on Sci-Fi. I haven't watched much there as of yet, though I really enjoyed the 2-hour BSG movie that was shown Thanksgiving weekend.

I'll definitely check out some of the other Sci-Fi stuff once I work through the MGM and HDNet movies I've stockpiled for the holiday drought.

SciFi-HD started out as almost nothing but an upconvert channel, but in the month or so since its debut has really increased the amount of HD programming (mainly with cheesy originals but hey, they're a guilty pleasure of mine). Plus the SciFi-HD bug during HD programming is so nonintrusive its almost unnoticeable.

Definitely my favorite of the new "basic cable" HD channels on DirecTV.

RaceTripper

12-24-07, 03:12 PM

Happy day! DHL delivered my new Samsung LNT4069F today, two days earlier than expected.

Anyway, what's the current consensus on a good indoor HD OTA antenna? I don't see the Silver Sensor anywhere. Is there something comparable/better?

Chazb

12-24-07, 06:44 PM

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2131034&cp=&sr=1&origkw=hdtv+antenna&kw=hdtv+antenna&parentPage=search

Someone on dbs talk suggested this one.I like the silver sensor but if you cant find one...

chuckparr

12-24-07, 09:35 PM

I am amused by the commercials that are shot in wide format and have black bars added top and bottom for viewing on a 4:3 system -- and then keep THOSE black bars when telecast on a wide-format channel, but have bars ADDED left and right as well to fill the extra space!

Not only are many shows not HD, but now we have tiney little HD commercials in little wide-screen boxes. Why is it we pay extra for HD, sometimes I forget?

RaceTripper

12-24-07, 10:44 PM

Scott Tucker

12-25-07, 10:10 AM

Wasn't the Silver Sensor repackaged as a Phillips or something like that?

Yes, and Maganvox. You can find these and the original Zenith on Fleabay.

Scott

phatty

12-25-07, 11:46 AM

The silver sensor is available at buy.com... I have been wanting to pick another one up but I am not a big fan of paying shipping charges especially on something so cheap so I have yet to do so... Wish Amazon would get it back so I can just use my free Prime shipping...

-Phatty

RaceTripper

12-25-07, 11:59 AM

MSloss

12-25-07, 12:32 PM

I have an HR20 and am relatively happy with it (though I still hate the 30 second "slip" instead of a real skip). Far as I know, the only differences are the HR21 is black instead of silver and has no antenna input (so no OTA recording with it).

Robert,

The 30 second skip is now available with the last couple of CE cycles for the HR20. Not sure about the HR21. For newcomers, the dbstalk site posts windows of opportunity to download beta updates of the firmware. Must be registered on the site to participate. CE stands for "Cutting Edge", which means test at your own risk and report any problems on the site.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

Mike

Scott Tucker

12-25-07, 02:17 PM

Mr_Bester

12-26-07, 08:20 AM

Anyone else with a D* HR20-100 notice that after you hit play while in FF, the player seems to back up a few seconds like the Tivo did. I don't recall my HR20 doing this before, but it sure is nice to have.

Scott

Go Boltz!

They added that a couple of CE's ago, although, I am not sure when it went National. I'm pretty sure it was the last release.
Dug

kjohnson

12-26-07, 08:40 PM

eyezen

12-26-07, 10:31 PM

Greetings:

Been away from the forum for a while.

Looking to help parents upgrade their dishnetwork setup.

They (finally :-) bought a new HDTV. They currently have a dish 500 mounted with fours leads coming out to I think a SW64 (in attic need to find out for sure) to multiple receivers (these can be ignored for now, 722 going to replace 2 anyways and may forgo the 3rd)

Mainly looking for confirmation on the wiring scenarios...

Option 1:

HD programming with dishnetwork provided HD locals (with optional OTA supplement)

New dish (1000+ ?) with fours leads one each from 110, 119, 61.5 or 129 and 118+ (stl hd locals) into a DPP44 switch resulting in one drop to 722 box, split into two tuners

Option 2:

HD programming with OTA only provided locals

Existing dish 500 with original additional dish 300 with three leads one each from 110, 119 and 61.5 or 129 into 2-SW21s ??? resulting in one drop to 722 box split into two tuners.

And the fact that the STL local HD programming is on 118+ makes option #1 the only way to get HD locals over sat, correct? (STL and Detroit only major dma markets with this scenario - correct?)

Thanks for any future help/confirmation...

tcfila

12-26-07, 10:48 PM

Does anyone recall if the Thursday night Rams game that was on NFL network was shown in HD by KTVI?

With this Saturday's NE game being simulcast on NBC, CBS, and NFL network, I'm hoping to see it in HD as I'm with Charter.

Tim

Robert Simandl

12-27-07, 08:21 AM

Details on the Patriots/Giants this Saturday night... first time since Super Bowl I that a game has been on both NBC *and* CBS, plus NFL Network.

http://wcbstv.com/sports/Patriots.game.simulcast.2.618281.html

But sorry tcfila, it doesn't answer your question on whether the two OTA broadcasts will be HD or not. My guess is they won't.

Robert Simandl

12-27-07, 08:25 AM

DroptheRemote

12-27-07, 09:35 AM

According to TV Predictions, both NBC and CBS will be offering the Pat-Giants game in HD...

http://www.tvpredictions.com/negame122607.htm

Item: If you are not the ONLY one, you are certainly among a small minority. Show me a sport where rules aren't bent routinely to gain an advantage, and I'll send you a leather-bound volume of Grimm's finest. :)

Closet Geek

12-27-07, 10:05 AM

tcfila

12-27-07, 03:08 PM

According to TV Predictions, both NBC and CBS will be offering the Pat-Giants game in HD...

http://www.tvpredictions.com/negame122607.htm

Thanks, I sure hope they are correct.

Tim

bhornberger

12-27-07, 07:20 PM

Thanks, I sure hope they are correct.

Tim

HDSportsGuide.com has received confirmation that the simulcast on NBC and CBS will be carried in high definition

Scott Tucker

12-27-07, 11:21 PM

BTW, am I the only one still wondering why the Patriots are still considered "undefeated" when they were CAUGHT CHEATING (intercepting the other teams' radio signals), ADMITTED it, and APOLOGIZED for it earlier this season???????

At the very least I think they should have had to forfeit that game.

Doesn't matter. San Diego will beat them in the championship game anyway. :D

Scott

Go Boltz

Robert Simandl

12-27-07, 11:36 PM

Doesn't matter. San Diego will beat them in the championship game anyway. :D

Unless they cheat and intercept San Diego's signals.....

tcfila

12-28-07, 08:51 AM

HDSportsGuide.com has received confirmation that the simulcast on NBC and CBS will be carried in high definition

But the question is.....Will the local channels "flip the switch"?

moman19

12-28-07, 10:02 AM

But the question is.....Will the local channels "flip the switch"?

Surely, the "HD Leader" would never commit such an egregious error :rolleyes:

MrBostn

12-28-07, 10:07 AM

BTW, am I the only one still wondering why the Patriots are still considered "undefeated" when they were CAUGHT CHEATING (intercepting the other teams' radio signals), ADMITTED it, and APOLOGIZED for it earlier this season???????

At the very least I think they should have had to forfeit that game.
The taping incident was uncovered late in the 1st qtr of the 1st game of the year. Hence They won the games this year without taping.

tcfila

12-28-07, 10:15 AM

Is it cheating if you aren't caught?

Dan in St. Louis

12-28-07, 12:33 PM

Is it cheating if you aren't caught?
I didn't know this was a political forum<G>!

aspec2

12-28-07, 10:41 PM

I quit watching football when the game was not forfiet. They took the Patriot's 1st round pick away. Big deal. They have the 9er's 1st. I love the way the sports media condones cheating when it is on a team basis. Oh, look the refs are "letting them play". When this is happening, the cheaters are winning. Yep, the media condones this type of cheating because the don't want to buck the NFL. Now why do they scream about Bonds, Rocket, and the rest of the Roid boys cheating. Can't they just "let them play".

Its all wrestling, if you ask me.

Walt

DroptheRemote

12-29-07, 10:26 AM

RaceTripper

12-29-07, 11:39 AM

Although it's not directly related to HD, it's nice to see someone publicly and deservedly calling out KSDK and its constant claims to be the very best at all things related to local TV.

http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/sports/columnists.nsf/dancaesar/story/58E238DD5A94EC91862573C000091074?OpenDocument

"...shabby treatment of many in its audience" sums it up perfectly for me.
Amen to that. I missed auto races due to them getting bumped for Cards games. I don't even care that much about baseball anymore, but I would have been happy if they aired my races at 3 AM, but I never got to see them at all.

SHADO 1

12-29-07, 07:38 PM

Left Jeff

12-29-07, 09:20 PM

Amen to that. I missed auto races due to them getting bumped for Cards games. I don't even care that much about baseball anymore, but I would have been happy if they aired my races at 3 AM, but I never got to see them at all.

what i don't get is that they have the ability to offer two things at once thanks to having a subchannel.

I think subchannels have so much potential, but most everyone seems to tentative to do anything groundbreaking, worthwhile or interesting with them, sans PBS. Of course they can drain HD quality, but still its a fascinating medium (to me at least)

since KSDK's subchannel is on Charter, not that many overall viewers would miss out.

bhornberger

12-29-07, 10:37 PM

I just ordered it today and they will be installing it on 12/18. I'll be sure to chime in again when everything is all setup in a few weeks

Brain,

How was the install? Satisfied?

StLBluesFan

12-30-07, 02:20 PM

SHADO 1

12-30-07, 03:28 PM

Thanks for the info. My parents only have two 19" SDTV's, so the limitation on the HD is not a concern for now. Getting away from the crappy Charter service is. They only have analog service and the PQ is horrible. I changed the cables in the house but they refuse to check the wiring outside. Most of the channels from 2 to the low 30's are all snowy.

moman19

12-30-07, 07:24 PM

We're experimenting with leaving the switch on 5.1. Turns out some commercials during stereo programs are in 5.1 and therefore lose the center channel dialog. There is no advance notification, so we're unable to switch it. The network has not perfected the system yet! Any input as to how it affects you receiver would be appreciated.
Jim

Jim,

I'm watching The Sound of Music and I can see what happens when you leave the flag set. I find it very annoying and this smacks of what kSDk has been doing all along (no insult intended).

While the program itself sounds great, the commercials are horrible and iindicitive of what happens with non-5.1 content. The center channel along with the rear wings go completely dead. I happen to have a 5-speaker satellite system with a sub woofer. When three of the 5 speakers go silent, the sound quality really suffers. While I really don't care much about the commercials, real shows without 5.1 (Leno on NBC, for example) will suffer.

Left Jeff

12-30-07, 09:41 PM

WRacer

12-31-07, 11:18 AM

Jim,

I'm watching The Sound of Music and I can see what happens when you leave the flag set. I find it very annoying and this smacks of what kSDk has been doing all along (no insult intended).

While the program itself sounds great, the commercials are horrible and iindicitive of what happens with non-5.1 content. The center channel along with the rear wings go completely dead. I happen to have a 5-speaker satellite system with a sub woofer. When three of the 5 speakers go silent, the sound quality really suffers. While I really don't care much about the commercials, real shows without 5.1 (Leno on NBC, for example) will suffer.

The switch should have been in the 5.1 mode for The Sound of Music. Are you saying that your receiver indicated stereo? I was monitoring in stereo and it sounded ok.
Jim

moman19

12-31-07, 12:23 PM

The switch should have been in the 5.1 mode for The Sound of Music. Are you saying that your receiver indicated stereo? I was monitoring in stereo and it sounded ok.
Jim

No, the receiver indicated Dolby Digital 5.1 throughout. The movie audio was fine. As is the case with any 5.1 program. It's the non-5.1 content that sounds bad if the audio receiver remains in 5.1 decode mode. I assume that when conventional L + R stereo info is passed thru a receiver with the 5.1 flag set, the center channel as well as the rear and possibly the sub woofer, remain silent. I'll have to check the sub. Not really sure about that.

Regardless, this is the same sin that KSDK commits daily with Leno. It's difficult to watch because the 5.1 flag remains set while the show is apparently only L + R audio. Keep in mind, that this is not noticeable when listening via a stereo receiver or thru the TV speakers. It's only an issue when a Dolby 5.1 home theatre system is providing all the audio.

davesalaman

12-31-07, 01:51 PM

No, the receiver indicated Dolby Digital 5.1 throughout. The movie audio was fine. As is the case with any 5.1 program. It's the non-5.1 content that sounds bad if the audio receiver remains in 5.1 decode mode. I assume that when conventional L + R stereo info is passed thru a receiver with the 5.1 flag set, the center channel as well as the rear and possibly the sub woofer, remain silent. I'll have to check the sub. Not really sure about that.

Regardless, this is the same sin that KSDK commits daily with Leno. It's difficult to watch because the 5.1 flag remains set while the show is apparently only L + R audio. Keep in mind, that this is not noticeable when listening via a stereo receiver or thru the TV speakers. It's only an issue when a Dolby 5.1 home theatre system is providing all the audio.

I think the difference you are experiencing is that your receiver falls back to dolby pro logic when receiving a 2.0 signal. The pro logic is providing a virtual center, rear, and sub channel. When the signal is 5.1 pro logic is disabled and you get channel routing as originated by the programmer. Your observation is that when only L+R fronts are programmed, the sound quality is inferior.

I'd suggest you look into the overall balance of your audio system with an eye towards upgrading your L&R fronts. You shouldn't have to rely on pro logic to shift the signal to a better sounding center and sub channel. When seated front and center, it should be difficult to tell if the center channel is operating or if you are hearing a virtual center from a well balanced set of front corners. Likewise, your sub and rears should not normally be loud enough that you actually notice them. They should be adding a subtle effect.

It could also be that your front corners are too far away compared to the center and there might be a way to level compensate this with your receiver's calibration controls. If not, they are likely just too small.

The Sound of Music is a good example. If this movie sounds bad to you without pro logic you can definitely fix this. This Movie was produced in stereo and had one of the best stereo soundtracks of all time. The application of pro logic to this soundtrack can do nothing but reduce the quality. Unless the movie was specifically mixed for pro logic, as many produced during the 80s were, pro logic does nothing useful.

I like having the 5.1 flag on all the time and having the channels routed according to the source. Even with a show like Leno, it's produced in stereo, and sounds great in stereo. I don't mind if programmers decode stereo to pro logic for those titles that were mixed for pro logic, but for anything else, I've had no use for it for several years.

Hey, what happened to the spell checker ?

MizzouTiger

12-31-07, 03:31 PM

Been cleaning out my basement this last week and I have a few "extra" receivers I'm not using. I have:

1 - RCA DVR80. It needs a new hard drive
1 - DirecTv R-10. Was working okay but had been rebooting/locking up. Not sure if it is a software issue or if a new drive is needed.
1 - DirecTv D10.

Was going to junk all of them, but if anyone is interested, please PM me. Prefer to keep it to someone in the St. Louis area so I wouldn't have to ship them anywhere. If I don't hear from anyone by the end of the week, I'm going to go ahead and take them to a local electronics recycling center.

Robert Simandl

12-31-07, 05:56 PM

moman19

12-31-07, 06:00 PM

The problem with Leno is, even though it's being transmitted in 2.0 sound, kSDk leaves the flag at 5.1. So our surround receivers do NOT fall back to Dolby Pro Logic because the signal is flagged as 5.1. The 5.1 indicator light stays lit and we only get sound from the left and right fronts. The center, rears, and sub are completely SILENT.

kSDk has been doing this for at least four years. >(

Exactly! As long as the 5.1 flag is set, DPL is not possible with my receiver. This is why I'm pointing this out to Jim. I understand his dilema, but it's simply not the preferred route to take.

DroptheRemote

12-31-07, 06:24 PM

Correct me if I'm wrong, but KSDK is dropping the ball regardless of the audio formats involved.

A good example of this was the Giants-Pats game on Saturday night, where both CBS and NBC were relaying the NFL Network broadcast to the local stations. Both KMOV and the NFL Network delivered the game with 5.1 sound, while KSDK was providing 2.0.

I find it hard to believe that NBC was given a feed with different audio than what the NFL and CBS used. I didn't watch the entire game -- just wanted to check in to how these were being handled and only watched for a few minutes

But the difference in the audio between KMOV and KSDK was night and day -- like being "The HD Leader"...and NOT being "The HD Leader." :)

DroptheRemote

12-31-07, 07:45 PM

FYI for Blues fans -- the Blues-Red Wings game is available in HD on the Versus/Golf channel.

It appears there's no blackout in force, since the game is being played in Detroit and it doesn't look to be available on local TV...

RaceTripper

01-01-08, 11:40 AM

I keep getting audio dropouts on FOX HD on D* for the Cotton Bowl broadcast. This is happening with both a HR20 and a HR21. Anyone else?

Kurt K

01-01-08, 11:50 AM

Yep, I'm getting them on my HR20 on 2-1 and 88, both.

tstolze

01-01-08, 03:32 PM

Happened to me also, OTA and Dish...

Lucid504

01-02-08, 11:27 AM

KSDKS HD Signal is out on Charter and OTA.

Scott Tucker

01-02-08, 11:31 AM

KSDKS HD Signal is out on Charter and OTA.

Yeah, I get an error message stating the local station is experiencing problems.

Scott

Lucid504

01-02-08, 12:00 PM

Yeah, I get an error message stating the local station is experiencing problems.

Scott

Where you getting that Phone? or something? Hope this isn't a all day thing..

wmschultz

01-02-08, 03:20 PM

On the screen from DirecTV.

wmschultz

01-02-08, 03:21 PM

It's cleared now.

PinkSplice

01-03-08, 02:19 AM

okay...so i've said I'd like to update my antenna situation as I am going OTA soon.

first up is replacing the old coax with rg6. The thing is I didn't put in my attic antenna and I just poked my head up to look it over. I don't recognize the balun and the cable just looks kind of weird to me (it looks like a big plug). so do I need to replace the balun as well? Maybe some one will recognize this stuff and point me in the right direction....I'm still very new to figuring out all this antenna stuff.

thanks and here's two pics:

http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n288/leftjeff/IMG_2443.jpg
http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n288/leftjeff/IMG_2445.jpg

Your "big plug" is a pair of insulator boots, covering the 300 ohm to 75 ohm balun connector. I recognize the antenna as an old Radio Shack VHF/UHF combo. Just unscrew the butterfly nuts holding the wires in place to the antenna (the blue plastic holders). Your vertical space looks tall enough for a DB-8 or Channel Master 4221 (barely). Both would be better for the STL market's UHF only future. DB-8 would be the best fit, the 4221 the better reciever. Use the included balun with the new antenna, and discard the old one.

wmschultz

01-03-08, 09:21 AM

Left Jeff

01-03-08, 09:37 AM

StLBluesFan

01-03-08, 10:16 AM

Question for the collection:

My RPTV 65 in Mitsubishi has a blinking green light and won't turn on. I did a search and
found that could mean a bad board inside the thing.

It is still under warranty and I called and Mid American Service out in St. Charles,
basically across the street from me is the company to be called.

Any stories/problems with this company???

FYI, I had that blinking light/won't turn on symptom last summer on my 57" Mits, right near the end of warranty. Per the manual the lamp needed to be replaced, called the number and Mits sent out a new one Next Day Air N/C.

More to your question, that experience led me to find there are very few "authorized" Mits repair centers in St Louis, a bit disappointing. I was going to go to Mid American, fortunately didn't have to.

DroptheRemote

01-03-08, 10:18 AM

Question for the collection:

My RPTV 65 in Mitsubishi has a blinking green light and won't turn on. I did a search and
found that could mean a bad board inside the thing.

It is still under warranty and I called and Mid American Service out in St. Charles,
basically across the street from me is the company to be called.

Any stories/problems with this company???wmschultz,

Try unplugging the TV from the mains power for 15 minutes and then reconnecting it. When you reconnect, allow a minute or so for the TV to re-initialize.

No guarantee here, but this usually fixes this warning indicator, but it might also be a sign of something more serious.

wmschultz

01-03-08, 10:22 AM

I'll try plugging it in when I get home. I tried unplugging it last night but I don't know that
I let it set that long. I'll try that.

Thanks everyone. My TV is an 03, so no Mits warranty. This is actually a UltimateElectronics
warranty that I bought..It expires 12/08.

Left Jeff

01-03-08, 11:30 AM

Your "big plug" is a pair of insulator boots, covering the 300 ohm to 75 ohm balun connector. I recognize the antenna as an old Radio Shack VHF/UHF combo. Just unscrew the butterfly nuts holding the wires in place to the antenna (the blue plastic holders). Your vertical space looks tall enough for a DB-8 or Channel Master 4221 (barely). Both would be better for the STL market's UHF only future. DB-8 would be the best fit, the 4221 the better reciever. Use the included balun with the new antenna, and discard the old one.

oh and did you mean the CM 4228? There seems to be quite a difference between a db8 and cm4221.

i will try adjusting the antenna and replacing the cable/balun first. I did notice the antenna wasn't pointed correctly to receive digital stations. it almost is...just needs to be moved maybe four or five inches. (in the picture the camera view was facing north...it needs to face sw)

djearl81

01-03-08, 12:32 PM

There has been a lot of AT&T trucks in my parents area and I asked what was going on. They are testing the lines for U-verse. My parent are interested to get away from charter (they don't want a dish) and my father would like the HSI. Does anyone have the service? They don't have HD (yet) so that is not much of a concern, but they do like the idea of the PVR. How does it perform? I already looked at the packages and they could save a little money over what they are paying now for cable and AOL dialup.

Long time no talk, Happy New Year to the STL OTA members.

I don't have the service, but they've showed us the product on numerous occasions. If HD isn't a concern, I'd say the service is at least on par with current sat/cable options, and U-verse will surpase both options in the future.

Each customer is entitled to three set top boxes for no additional cost. One is a DVR, the other two simply connect to the residential gateway to stream live and recorded content to another screen.

Currently you can have 4 SD streams into the home at one time. So, Three TVs can watch different programs while the DVR records a 4th show not being watched. (Or two watching and two recording, etc...)

The playback of recorded content is a little different. Playback of a recorded show creates a channel (example 9999) that can be watched from any room in the house. While you can watch recorded content on any TV, it has to be started from the DVR. So, You'd start your recorded show in in the living room, then head downstairs to watch it. (I hope AT&T figures out a way around this soon.)

The performance and picture quality are excellent. Instead of broadcasting all the channels all the time, they stream the channel you're watching and a header for the channel above and below. So the don't need to compress the signal. (But they probably will use compression in the future to provide more than one HD stream.)

Anyway, I've gone on long enough. The service should be out on the Illinois side of the border very soon. (There's an employee demo at the Fairview AT&T store tonight, and certain employees are currently testing the product in their home to work out local bugs.)

Saluki

01-03-08, 01:16 PM

If HD isn't a concern, I'd say the service is at least on par with current sat/cable options...

:D :p :D

djearl81

01-03-08, 01:55 PM

:D :p :D

You got me...The only downside for the HD portion is that you can only watch 1 live HD stream at a time. So, I can't watch HD in the basement while my wife watches HD in the living room.

Have you seen the HD channel lineup?
http://www.att.com/gen/sites/iptv?pid=8695

Saluki

01-03-08, 04:51 PM

You got me...The only downside for the HD portion is that you can only watch 1 live HD stream at a time. So, I can't watch HD in the basement while my wife watches HD in the living room.

Have you seen the HD channel lineup?
http://www.att.com/gen/sites/iptv?pid=8695

Lineup looks good (but hey, I'm with Charter!).

I hope this turns out to be a great product. I just have no interest in being an early adopter on this one, though I can't imagine it will take too long to sort out the multiple HD viewing issue.

Scott Tucker

01-03-08, 05:18 PM

Question for the collection:

My RPTV 65 in Mitsubishi has a blinking green light and won't turn on. I did a search and
found that could mean a bad board inside the thing.

It is still under warranty and I called and Mid American Service out in St. Charles,
basically across the street from me is the company to be called.

Any stories/problems with this company???

Since I sold Mits TV's for 'bout 10 years I can tell you many stories about Mid-America. Do you want the good ones or the bad ones because there are both? You really don't have a choice, so I'd just call them to put in the new board.

wmschultz

01-03-08, 09:41 PM

I called them. They will be out Monday. I did try plugging the TV back in when I got home
and it still just likes to blink the green light at me.

I called Mid America at around 8am this morning and the woman seemed a littly catty.
I said I'm calling for a warranty work order and she asked me when I bought it. I said 2003
and she said, "why do you think it is under warranty?"

So I called her out for being catty with me because it was more than that, she said the warranty
company should have faxed something to them and blah blah blah. Basically it was my fault
for making her answer the phone. So after I called her out for being catty (insert real adjective here)
she was nice. I called the warranty company again, they faxed the thing, then I called back. It was like
I was talking to a different woman.......

PinkSplice

01-04-08, 04:04 AM

oh and did you mean the CM 4228? There seems to be quite a difference between a db8 and cm4221.

i will try adjusting the antenna and replacing the cable/balun first. I did notice the antenna wasn't pointed correctly to receive digital stations. it almost is...just needs to be moved maybe four or five inches. (in the picture the camera view was facing north...it needs to face sw)

The 4228 is a monster: 39 Inches tall and wide.

I have three. All outside. I get Pittsburgh, sometimes. :)

From your photo, it does not look as if you have the room for a 4228. A 4221 has a wonderful, near omni pattern twoards the front. The DB-8 has a less optimal pattern, but is able to fit in more locations, and is available locally.

By all means, point your antenna twoards 225 degrees (southwest). But a new 4221 or DB-8 will fit your needs better.

DroptheRemote

01-04-08, 08:25 AM

Left Jeff

01-04-08, 09:44 AM

The 4228 is a monster: 39 Inches tall and wide.

I have three. All outside. I get Pittsburgh, sometimes. :)

From your photo, it does not look as if you have the room for a 4228. A 4221 has a wonderful, near omni pattern twoards the front. The DB-8 has a less optimal pattern, but is able to fit in more locations, and is available locally.

By all means, point your antenna twoards 225 degrees (southwest). But a new 4221 or DB-8 will fit your needs better.

I agree....if I am going ota-only I want the best, most realiable setup. However, its not a pressing need because I get all the digital channels (except 46.1) with a Rat Shack attic antenna, no preamp, out dated coax and approx. 30 miles from the towers. :eek:

properly aiming the antenna and replacing the cable should remove the few or occasional hiccups I do have until the antenna replacement.

well, I will buy a new one this summer...so which one? The prices I saw had the db8 at around $80 and the 4221 in the $30 range...that's a big difference in money...i don't have a problem spending $80, but why spend $80 when I can spend $30?

also, who carries it locally? I do like to buy local when I can. i avoid the big box stores and faceless internet companies when possible....

PinkSplice

01-04-08, 10:05 AM

The 4221 is carried by Skywalker Communications in O'Fallon MO. Good experiences.

The DB-8 is carried by Antennas Direct (I-44 outer road just short of 6 Flags). Also good experiences.

DroptheRemote

01-04-08, 10:09 AM

Jeff,

This isn't exactly LOCAL to you, but it's the only nearby source that I know that reliably stocks ChannelMaster and Winegard antennae.

They also can ship via ground at a very reasonable price, so you have the potential of the best of both worlds -- local and no travel.

Skywalker Communications
+1 (636) 272-8025 work
+1 (800) 844-9555 work

9390 Veterans Memorial Parkway
O'Fallon, MO
63366

Left Jeff

01-04-08, 11:26 AM

damn, those are some hauls for me! :eek:

MoInSTL

01-04-08, 01:11 PM

KSDK is making me crazy. The two hour premier of Law & Order looked awful. In fact most everything looks bad on KSDK except Leno and I haven't watched that lately to know if it still looks decent. I tried calling the engineer at the station and got VM. Does anyone have a better conctact?

Btw, I have ordered a J mast and recently a balun from Skywalker. To echo what Doug said, their shipping prices are vey good.

wmschultz

01-04-08, 01:29 PM

I was watching the two hour L&O and the audio was breaking up also.

MoInSTL

01-04-08, 01:37 PM

I was watching the two hour L&O and the audio was breaking up also.

Thanks for the reminder. I just tried contacting the engineer and got his VM again. I seem to always call during lunch time.

wmschultz

01-04-08, 02:27 PM

When it really bothers me, I call the KSDK newsroom and just ask for the control room. I
don't have the number here with me, but I can post it when i get home. It is on SpeedDial.

DroptheRemote

01-04-08, 03:28 PM

When it really bothers me, I call the KSDK newsroom and just ask for the control room...It is on SpeedDial.That pretty much says it all.

But hey, kSDk did recently win a local Emmy for technical excellence. Clearly our problems are imagined, not real... :rolleyes:

moman19

01-04-08, 03:38 PM

Thanks for the reminder. I just tried contacting the engineer and got his VM again. I seem to always call during lunch time.

I'm not catching any of the audio/video breakups you describe......just the usual kSDk screw-ups. However, I have noticed that signal strength, usually at 100 here in Creve Coeur, is suddenly in the mid-eighties. I don't think it's at my end as all other OTAs are unchanged. Perhpas you're falling below a threshold. Have you noticed any recent SS decreases?

Scott Tucker

01-04-08, 05:06 PM

Warner to go exclusively with Bluray was announced today. That is the nail in the coffin for me. I'm done with both these stupid HD formats. Anyone want to buy all of my HD-DVD's and a XBOX player?

MoInSTL

01-04-08, 09:32 PM

I'm not catching any of the audio/video breakups you describe......just the usual kSDk screw-ups. However, I have noticed that signal strength, usually at 100 here in Creve Coeur, is suddenly in the mid-eighties. I don't think it's at my end as all other OTAs are unchanged. Perhpas you're falling below a threshold. Have you noticed any recent SS decreases?

All my other stations look great. It's just KSDK that looks bad. Somehow local chanels 4, 30, 9-1 and 2 look fine too.

My SS is fine, my OTA is good too. The video is not breaking up. I am griping about how poor the PQ is on KSDK. I wasn't even sure L&O was in HD. It looked that bad.

gothamcity

01-04-08, 10:43 PM

Warner to go exclusively with Bluray was announced today. That is the nail in the coffin for me. I'm done with both these stupid HD formats. Anyone want to buy all of my HD-DVD's and a XBOX player?

Looks like you backed the wrong horse. Those HD-DVDs are now worthless...:D

Robert Simandl

01-04-08, 11:00 PM

Warner to go exclusively with Bluray was announced today. That is the nail in the coffin for me. I'm done with both these stupid HD formats. Anyone want to buy all of my HD-DVD's and a XBOX player?

The same day my HD-DVD set of Blade Runner arrived. :rolleyes:

phatty

01-04-08, 11:41 PM

Looks like you backed the wrong horse. Those HD-DVDs are now worthless...:D

No more than standard DVDs or even bluray in another few years as they all drop in value to junk quickly anyway... It just reminds me why I need to not buy any movies. The war was needed to fight prices because without the war the cheapest player would still be 500+. I bought an HDDVD player over a year ago and I have no regrets and deep down I was still rooting for Bluray. As I watched, and read up on how much of a cluster *** Sony did with Bluray during its launch I became more and more happy I choose HDDVD Vs Bluray and have 0 plans on buying a bluray till I can find a $100 player. Even then I won't be buying any more movies as I will just stick to Netflix for now on.

Also its not like this auto bricks all players or something. I find it funny the amount of Bluray supporters that act like everyone just got screwed. The fact is when I bought my player I actually bought a good $200 upconverter first and then thought about it some more and decided that it was worth the additional cost to just upgrade to a good upconverter/HDDVD player so I returned the upconverter that I had already purchased. All the previous HDDVDs are still on the market and Warner still has a few more movies that are still getting released. I hope the other studios who support HDDVD hold out as long as possible as the best solution for the consumer is an affordable Dual format player. If they throw in the Towel then consumers are screwed.. If the studios who support HDDVD hold out for the rest of 2008 and then some I think everyone will end up a bit happier in the end so that the hardware support for dual format players can come to be at an affordable costs.

Any way around I am done buying movies. I have only bought about 5 HDDVDs and honestly every time I bought a movie I regretted it knowing how quickly my old DVDs dropped in cost. (Except for Transformers, that movie rocks) I think this is going to motivate me to put a few more standard DVD movies for sale on half.com while I can still get a whole dollar for em' after shipping costs.

-Phatty

phatty

01-04-08, 11:45 PM

The same day my HD-DVD set of Blade Runner arrived. :rolleyes:

I watched that movie recently on I think HDNet movies.. Now I wish I would have justed waited for the HDDVD release so I could have netflixed it and seen it in better quality.

-Phatty

gothamcity

01-05-08, 09:16 AM

No more than standard DVDs or even bluray in another few years as they all drop in value to junk quickly anyway... It just reminds me why I need to not buy any movies. The war was needed to fight prices because without the war the cheapest player would still be 500+. I bought an HDDVD player over a year ago and I have no regrets and deep down I was still rooting for Bluray. As I watched, and read up on how much of a cluster *** Sony did with Bluray during its launch I became more and more happy I choose HDDVD Vs Bluray and have 0 plans on buying a bluray till I can find a $100 player. Even then I won't be buying any more movies as I will just stick to Netflix for now on.

Also its not like this auto bricks all players or something. I find it funny the amount of Bluray supporters that act like everyone just got screwed. The fact is when I bought my player I actually bought a good $200 upconverter first and then thought about it some more and decided that it was worth the additional cost to just upgrade to a good upconverter/HDDVD player so I returned the upconverter that I had already purchased. All the previous HDDVDs are still on the market and Warner still has a few more movies that are still getting released. I hope the other studios who support HDDVD hold out as long as possible as the best solution for the consumer is an affordable Dual format player. If they throw in the Towel then consumers are screwed.. If the studios who support HDDVD hold out for the rest of 2008 and then some I think everyone will end up a bit happier in the end so that the hardware support for dual format players can come to be at an affordable costs.

Any way around I am done buying movies. I have only bought about 5 HDDVDs and honestly every time I bought a movie I regretted it knowing how quickly my old DVDs dropped in cost. (Except for Transformers, that movie rocks) I think this is going to motivate me to put a few more standard DVD movies for sale on half.com while I can still get a whole dollar for em' after shipping costs.

-Phatty

Yep, they all end up as pretty much worthless at some point. It is just a HD-DVD player won't be worth much if movies are not coming out in that format. It will just be a paperweight that plays a handful of movies taking up space in your AV rack. I have not bought into either format. I just continued buying SD DVD. Once blue-ray players drop alittle more I will likely go with that format now since it is obvious they are going to win.

DroptheRemote

01-05-08, 10:30 AM

FYI -- it appears that the wheels are moving decidedly off-axle for HD DVD, as it has canceled some of its Consumer Electronics Show programs:

http://www.tvpredictions.com/hddvdces010508.htm

lkrupp

01-05-08, 10:38 AM

The same day my HD-DVD set of Blade Runner arrived. :rolleyes:

As someone else has mentioned the CD and the DVD are on their way out. In a very few years there will be no more physical media. As bandwidth to the home increases (the government and the network operators need to focus on this because it's happening much too slowly) all content will be delivered via streaming or download. IP based TV is in its infancy but its potential is almost unlimited because of the technology. Every single movie ever made could be made accessible in theory

By the way at&t U-verse launches Monday, 1/7/08 in the Illinois towns of Collinsville, Maryville, O'Falllon, and Belleville. Yes, there are many improvements and features that are needed. And yes I'm an at&t employee so feel free to flame away.:D

lkrupp

01-05-08, 10:43 AM

FYI -- it appears that the wheels are moving decidedly off-axle for HD DVD, as it has canceled some of its Consumer Electronics Show programs:

http://www.tvpredictions.com/hddvdces010508.htm

Remember though, the 800 lb gorilla (Microsoft) is still behind the format. Rumor is that Apple, Inc. will firmly commit to Blu-Ray at the Macworld Expo in a couple of weeks.

I would pay money to know what went on behind the scenes to make Warner make the announcement. Lots of money was probably involved.:rolleyes:

wmschultz

01-05-08, 10:52 AM

The number I call for KSDK is 314-444-5125. It is the newsroom. Just ask for the Control Room.

All you football watchers might want to have this number ready cuz all games are on NBC today.

Mr_Bester

01-05-08, 11:31 AM

I don't know why everyone is so upset by the Warner announcement. If you were an early adopter and bought into EITHER side, there was a good chance you would lose out. That is the price of early adoption in this case.

If you did buy in, you can still enjoy what you currently own. I can't understand why people would rather wait for downloads(most likely lower quality for quite some time) rather than buy into the (projected) winning format. Even if you hate Sony, there is still Pioneer, Panasonic, Samsung, Denon, etc. If you hated either Microsoft or Toshiba, there were no other choices aside from expensive dual format players(in which case the Warner announcement meant nothing to you).

I never understood the RABID proponents of either side. I bought a PS3 when I sold 2 HDTivos(to fund it) and I knew that it was entirely possible I would have to buy an HD DVD player if BluRay lost. I would still be able to watch Ratatouille, POTC, HP and any other movies I already purchased and not have to re-buy them on HD DVD.

I don't understand why people's emotions are so wound up in the affairs of multi-billion dollar companies throwing money around. HD DVD PG did it with Paramount/Dreamworks and the BDA(most likely) did with Warner.

The reason I went with BluRay was the larger capacity and higher possible bitrates. At the time, the only advantage HD DVD had was the ability to rip the disks to my Hard Drive. I had no need to rent a movie and waste 25 gb to watch a movie a second time, or "share" it with my friends. With HD DVD it was also possible to take HD rips from my tivo and play them from disk. Now that point is moot with the ability to stream or burn content and play it with my PS3 and the fact the D* DVRs don't have that hackability.

I also made a bigger gamble picking BluRay because of the higher price. HD DVD has always been cheaper(hardware wise). Although, currently there is roughly a $10-20 difference for similar spec'd BluRay and HD DVD players.

If people are worried about the competition being gone, there are still several companies making BluRay players and there has been only one making HD DVD. Even if that HD DVD manufacturer decided to make BluRay and sell them at the same price as they currently sell their HD DVD players, the other BluRay manufacturers can start competing with each other(like they do in display and other technologies) instead of teaming up against a single company.

Sorry for being long winded, it always seemed the St Louis thread was a little more calm then the rest of the format war(once the likes of JimGlobe were banned). Even when there was only one STL thread and the Charter customers were here, it never seemed to get too out of control(I think the Charter people disagreed since they decided they needed their own thread), but ALL HDM threads were always trolled by both sides and it was nice to come in here for peace and quiet with helpful and polite conversation. I hope once this HDM war dies down, it will return to the peaceful place it used to be.
Dug

Nuzy

01-05-08, 11:32 AM

*OFF TOPIC*
Anyone here know of a place in town (preferably south or west county area) that sells sata II cables for an internal hard drive? BB and CC don't seem to carry them, nor does the Shack. I know newegg has them, but I'd like to pick something up quick.

Thanks,
Nuzy

phatty

01-05-08, 11:33 AM

As someone else has mentioned the CD and the DVD are on their way out. In a very few years there will be no more physical media. As bandwidth to the home increases (the government and the network operators need to focus on this because it's happening much too slowly) all content will be delivered via streaming or download. IP based TV is in its infancy but its potential is almost unlimited because of the technology. Every single movie ever made could be made accessible in theory

By the way at&t U-verse launches Monday, 1/7/08 in the Illinois towns of Collinsville, Maryville, O'Falllon, and Belleville. Yes, there are many improvements and features that are needed. And yes I'm an at&t employee so feel free to flame away.:D

Yeah that probably will end up as the true next gen format.. Whether your pulling it down via your Xbox360, or using the new device LG is coming out with that supports netflix that will be the best way to go. It will be really interesting to see how that Netflix device works out and if they will pump up the quality to HD once it gets released. I have watched a few of their streaming movies and was impressed, but I just don't care to sit down at my PC to watch anything and even hooking my laptop up to my TV is not worth the effort for me.

-Phatty

moman19

01-05-08, 02:25 PM

Try EPC in St. Charles - (636) 443-1999. They specialize in off-lease equipment at bargain basement rates and also carry accessories & cables the last time I checked.

duihlein

01-05-08, 02:58 PM

Yeah that probably will end up as the true next gen format.. Whether your pulling it down via your Xbox360, or using the new device LG is coming out with that supports netflix that will be the best way to go. It will be really interesting to see how that Netflix device works out and if they will pump up the quality to HD once it gets released. I have watched a few of their streaming movies and was impressed, but I just don't care to sit down at my PC to watch anything and even hooking my laptop up to my TV is not worth the effort for me.

-Phatty

I have a PC hooked up in my HT all the time adn I still don't like the idea of movie downloads. If it's just renting that's one thing, but there are some movies I want to own in the best possible format.

I bought both a PS3 and HD-A1. I have 4 HD-DVD's and 9 Blu Ray discs (Blade Runner will be 10). I use netflix for most movies, but I want to own the best of the best.

I prefer Blu for 3 reasons. Higher capacity, faster throughput and scratch resistant coating.

Now if Sony would give me DTS-HD MA decoding I will be happy with the PS3 till a multiformat Blu/DVD-A/SACD player is out (Denon??)

Anyone wanna buy King Kong HD-DVD??

duvy56

01-05-08, 08:42 PM

Not sure why but the Blues vs Hurricanes is on 633-1 HD right now on D*.

Oh well got the first period only then it was blaked out, nice while it lasted.

matth1138

01-05-08, 09:59 PM

Comptuter St. Louis on Watson...used to be Computer Rennaisance.

-Matt

eyezen

01-06-08, 09:27 PM

Has anyone recently measured via TSReader or other means the bandwidth coming from 4-1? Just curious how much bandwidth that blank screen on 4-2 takes up.

Robert Simandl

01-06-08, 10:16 PM

Has anyone recently measured via TSReader or other means the bandwidth coming from 4-1? Just curious how much bandwidth that blank screen on 4-2 takes up.

Funny you should mention that... just got done editing the commercials out of the most recent new episode of Criminal Minds. According to VideoReDo, the bitrate was 14.95mbps. Theoretically, the ceiling on bitrates is 19.95mbps IIRC, but in practice it's more like 18.95 or so (somebody correct me if I'm wrong). So I'd say 4-2 is still taking up 2.5 to 3mbps of KMOV's signal.

BTW, since KPLR shut down 11-2, it's bitrate on 11-1 is about 16.95mbps or so IIRC (been a while since I had a new Supernatural episode to edit). Oddly, 4-1's 14.95 bitrate produces a better picture than 11-1's 16.95.

dweebe

01-07-08, 06:56 PM

As someone else has mentioned the CD and the DVD are on their way out. In a very few years there will be no more physical media. As bandwidth to the home increases (the government and the network operators need to focus on this because it's happening much too slowly) all content will be delivered via streaming or download. IP based TV is in its infancy but its potential is almost unlimited because of the technology. Every single movie ever made could be made accessible in theory

By the way at&t U-verse launches Monday, 1/7/08 in the Illinois towns of Collinsville, Maryville, O'Falllon, and Belleville. Yes, there are many improvements and features that are needed. And yes I'm an at&t employee so feel free to flame away.:D

You guys ever going to get U-Verse rolled out to Clayton? You'd figure with all the density, high-rises and income levels it would be high on the list. Then again I live in an area of Clayton where the fastest DSL I can get is the 1.5meg package.

Joseph Clark

01-07-08, 10:18 PM

I haven't posted or read anything from the forum for a couple of months. My Godfather, Bill Diel, passed away on Nov. 21, the day before Thanksgiving. I know a few of you met him. He was a great, great man and my dearest friend.

His Memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, January 15, 2008 at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 5020 Rhodes Ave. (at S. Kingshighway), 7:00pm. We're serving refreshments afterwards, and we're giving away some materials I've worked on since Bill died - a Diel family genealogy on DVD that he and I worked on together for years, some of his organ concerts as MP3's on a CD, and a booklet that chronicles a few things about his extraordinary life. He was a world traveler, musician, artist and wonderful friend to everyone he knew, as well as being the organist and choir director at Sorrows for over 38 years. Our own jedi35, Adrian Walker, is playing the Samuel Barber Adagio for Strings, along with several other talented musicians.

I would be honored to see any of you there. If you come, please say hello at the reception after the Mass.