Apparently, this product will work for Vista or later only. No XP support, unfortunately. I'm running mostly Vista now, so for me it's not a problem.

I figured I would have to upgrade to Vista or 7 to jump to the next level. I have kept an older version of PowerDVD to play my HDDVD, that is probably 1/3-1/2 of my collection. What are you using for video and audio?

I figured I would have to upgrade to Vista or 7 to jump to the next level. I have kept an older version of PowerDVD to play my HDDVD, that is probably 1/3-1/2 of my collection. What are you using for video and audio?

I've been fortunate to get my Radeon 4850 working pretty well for audio and video via HDMI. True, it does downsample, but it maintains an audio signal that is far better than the more highly compressed forms of Dolby Digital or DTS. The SlyPlayer (according to one of the developers) will supply full quality LPCM, and maybe bitstream, to the receiver. Doesn't matter to me which it does. Unfortunately, there's no due date. It's going to be free, though. :D

Unfortunately, there's no due date. It's going to be free, though. :D

It will still cost me a video card and an OS. Guess I better find some more infested computers to fix!:p

Hey, did I just see a tumbleweed blow through here???????

WHERE IS EVERYBODY?????

Hey, did I just see a tumbleweed blow through here???????

WHERE IS EVERYBODY?????

Its NHL playoff season. So I have nothing to say except GO BLUES!

Is channel 11 doing syndicated HD now? Everybody Loves Raymond is on right now and its in HD? Does this mean Legend of the Seeker and Seinfeld on 2 will be in HD now?

Is channel 11 doing syndicated HD now? Everybody Loves Raymond is on right now and its in HD? Does this mean Legend of the Seeker and Seinfeld on 2 will be in HD now?
Wow....looks like you're right. Two and Half Men (editorial: a crappy, paper-thin show) is in HD right now too. Looks like Channel 11 finally did something right. I'm not using my surround sound right now, so I can't tell if it's stereo or 5.1 (probably stereo, since just about nothing is 5.1 on Channel 11).

Is channel 11 doing syndicated HD now? Everybody Loves Raymond is on right now and its in HD? Does this mean Legend of the Seeker and Seinfeld on 2 will be in HD now?

I probably have 3-4 seasons of Raymond in HD, captured from CBS when it ran in prime time. It's one of those shows I warmed up to late. Good to know I may be able to fill in some of the holes in my collection. I don't remember when they started broadcasting the show in HD, but it's been hard for me to watch any of the re-runs on 11 since I got used to the show in HD.

Wow....looks like you're right. Two and Half Men (editorial: a crappy, paper-thin show) is in HD right now too. Looks like Channel 11 finally did something right. I'm not using my surround sound right now, so I can't tell if it's stereo or 5.1 (probably stereo, since just about nothing is 5.1 on Channel 11).

I have to agree about Two and a Half Men. Hard to believe this was the most popular sitcom (and some said the best sitcom) on TV for a while. Shows what a vacuum there was when shows like Raymond and Friends and Seinfeld faded out. I don't think I ever laughed once in the few eps I watched. Stale, formulaic comedy from day one.

I have to agree about Two and a Half Men. Hard to believe this was the most popular sitcom (and some said the best sitcom) on TV for a while. Shows what a vacuum there was when shows like Raymond and Friends and Seinfeld faded out. I don't think I ever laughed once in the few eps I watched. Stale, formulaic comedy from day one.

I don't mind Two and a Half Men. For me its one though if I land on it while channel surfing I'll watch it. Now Raymond on the other hand is one I could careless about. About the only character I like on the show was Frank. Anyway I'm just hoping this means that they will should Legend of the Seeker in HD now. I haven't started watched it yet since 11 hasn't shown it in HD yet and Directv doesn't have WGN HD. I thought KTVI would be showing Seinfeld in HD also but watch it at 6:30 and still no HD. Also King of Queens is on right now and 11 is showing it in SD.

Slightly interesting and actually on topic.

http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/sports/columnists.nsf/dancaesar/story/903FFDA1D3D81BB68625759B0004DACB?OpenDocument

That article only talks about Blues games. When is FSN and BudSports going to step up and
show away games for the Cards and Blues in HD?

That article only talks about Blues games. When is FSN and BudSports going to step up and
show away games for the Cards and Blues in HD?

The article talked about the cards, it says after May2, 91 of 110 games will be hd.

The article talked about the cards, it says after May2, 91 of 110 games will be hd.That's true, and in fact, yesterday's game at Wrigley Field was shown live in HD. However, the evening replay was SD only.

It appears that FSNMW does not have the ability to store and replay HD programming. If so, I would expect that this is going to be the continuing reality for some time. In the current business and political climate, I don't see a whole lot of interest by broadcasters in investing in this sort of infrastructure.

Of course, it's arguable that those investments should have already been made -- but that was then and this is now. :)

The article talked about the cards, it says after May2, 91 of 110 games will be hd.

My bad. I just read about the Blues.

That's true, and in fact, yesterday's game at Wrigley Field was shown live in HD. However, the evening replay was SD only.

It appears that FSNMW does not have the ability to store and replay HD programming. If so, I would expect that this is going to be the continuing reality for some time. In the current business and political climate, I don't see a whole lot of interest by broadcasters in investing in this sort of infrastructure.

Of course, it's arguable that those investments should have already been made -- but that was then and this is now. :)
On a related note, I've noticed that highlights of Thursday's FSN Midwest feed were in HD during SportsCenter and Baseball Tonight. In years past, all Cardinals FSN Midwest highlights (including games available in HD) were only standard definition on ESPN. Maybe the improvement was made on FSN's end, or maybe on ESPN's. Either way, it's a good development.

Anyone notice last night the over-modulated sound on KTVI? I was flipping through the channels and came across it during Hell's Kitchen.

Shhh, don't tell anyone that the VS. HD feed is still active on D*

What the frack happened? Garbled sound, freezing and jumping back & forth between a windowed box and 16:9 several times. I am calling the station tomorrow. Just wondering if it was the national feed.

What the frack happened? Garbled sound, freezing and jumping back & forth between a windowed box and 16:9 several times. I am calling the station tomorrow. Just wondering if it was the national feed.Ugg, I haven't watched the episode yet.

Same thing happened with Bones the other night - it destroyed the end of the show. Prison Break was OK when I tuned in for a few minutes last night.

Sometimes 30.1 works very good other times its very bad. Its the only channel im having problems with.

The problem is the same on my TIVO HD and tv tuner.

Totally off topic, but here's what *I* want for Christmas!!!

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B001993Y2C/thedigitalbit-20

Totally off topic, but here's what *I* want for Christmas!!!

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B001993Y2C/thedigitalbit-20I've already preordered & it's due out days before my birthday (unless I cancel it in favor of car mods).

Sometimes 30.1 works very good other times its very bad. Its the only channel im having problems with.

The problem is the same on my TIVO HD and tv tuner.

What are the problems your having? IE: audio break up...picture blocking...lip sync?

What are the problems your having? IE: audio break up...picture blocking...lip sync?

the video brakes up alot and audio goes off. Seems to be fine now. I have some problems with 4.1 but that should be fine when they go to full power.

sometimes 30.1 works fine with 80% reception other times its unwatchable

During the first period of Sunday's Blues game, the on-screen graphic said that Game 4 would be on "CW 11 HD." Does this mean that CW 11 will broadcast their first-ever HD Blues game? I'll believe it when I see it.

Based on the track record, HD on 11 is just a tease. Then again, they did do some Cards games in HD before kSDk took over that block of games.

Maybe this is a breakthrough...

How far the mighty have fallen...

When KraPLR first started broadcasting HD, it was one of the best looking (and sounding) HD channels in town. And my hard drive still has several Season 1 episodes of SUPERNATURAL to prove it.

Reaper on the CW has been great since it returned. The audio is Dolby Digital encoded, so only mono surround, but it's had consistently great picture quality.

Chuck was tremendous tonight - very, very funny. Unfortunately, my DVR prioritized Bones (out of its regular Fox slot because of Idol) and I missed the first few minutes of Chuck. I tuned in about 7:06. I'll have to catch the first part on NBC tomorrow.

Chuck, like Reaper and several other shows, is on the bubble. Not since Buffy have I hoped for a series renewal as much as I do with Chuck.

I have a network question. I had to replace my router today. When the network came back up, I couldn't get at my UnRAID servers. For some unknown reason, I got one back, but the other is still invisible. Ideas?

I agree on "Chuck" tonight -- another great episode.

It does look like the producers understand they're on the ropes and they've pretty much tied up in nice little bow most of the key plot lines. I guess there's still potential for new cliffhangers in the season finale, but I get the sense that it's probably the end of the road for the show. Too bad if it turns out that way.

Frankly, I'm starting to get fed up the games that go on with network programming, and it makes me less and less inclined to make any sort of viewing commitment to any new series. In fact, although I DVRed ABC's "The Unusuals" the past 2 weeks, I initially resisted watching them. I did break down and caught them over the weekend, and while it is interesting and has some potential, I'm unlikely to make it regular viewing. My hunch is it probably goes 12 episodes and gets yanked, pretty much like every other program that has followed "Lost" the last five seasons.

But back to "Chuck." This show and "30 Rock" are the only programs I watch on NBC, and I'm definitely not watching anything new from this network in the future. Part of this is lingering disdain for kSDk's engineering incompetence, but more so I resent that NBC News has done little else but play cheerleader for candidate/President Obama, and that the network overall has pulled out all the stops in pushing a one-sided global warming agenda that's clearly designed to benefit parent company GE's industrial divisions. Even tonight on "Chuck" we had the little green peacock logo.

Yeah, yeah, I know it's overbearing and probably ill-advised to bring politics into this sort of thing, but NBC/GE clearly thinks this is a savvy way to play the game. So in that vein, I think it's perfectly legitimate to pick up on that obvious cue and withhold my viewing as a personal "No Soup for You" referendum.

I suspect that will clear away some of the tumbleweeds... ;)

I have a network question. I had to replace my router today. When the network came back up, I couldn't get at my UnRAID servers. For some unknown reason, I got one back, but the other is still invisible. Ideas?

I thought of something else Joe, maybe once the ip address renews it will be visible again. Most home routers renew every 24 hours.

I thought of something else Joe, maybe once the ip address renews it will be visible again. Most home routers renew every 24 hours.

That must have been it, Tom. My other UnRAID server is back and happy again. Thanks.

I've gotta learn more about UnRAID, so I can force a reboot from the Linux command line.

I agree on "Chuck" tonight -- another great episode.

...

Yeah, yeah, I know it's overbearing and probably ill-advised to bring politics into this sort of thing, but NBC/GE clearly thinks this is a savvy way to play the game. So in that vein, I think it's perfectly legitimate to pick up on that obvious cue and withhold my viewing as a personal "No Soup for You" referendum.

I suspect that will clear away some of the tumbleweeds... ;)

Or lead to a showdown at the OK Corral. :D

Doug, did you catch the reference to "The Warriors" last night on Chuck? It was an 80s movie about a group of lawless gangs hell-bent on wresting control of New York City from the cops. I love the frequent movie allusions and the astute use of music in Chuck.

I missed the Warriors reference, but I do remember seeing the movie. I'll have to go back and take another look at the episode. Can you give me a hint on the context without doing a spoiler faux pas?

BTW, no one here has mentioned it and clearly at this stage in the "transition," it probably warrants no more than a waking yawn, but I read last week that "Jimmy Kimmel Live" is now in HD.

Apparently they did a big dog and pony bit on the change, actually "flipping the switch" in mid-show. I haven't caught it yet, but may try to figure out the scheduling of the musical segments for DVRing...

Newegg has a 1.5TB drive on a one-day sale for $115. (http://promotions.newegg.com/NEemail/Apr-0-2009/24hour/index-landing.html?nm_mc=EMC-IGNEFL042109&cm_mmc=EMC-IGNEFL042109-_-email-_-E0A-_-HDD&cm_lm=jc1luvjc2@gmail.com) Use the promo code to get the discount price.

I missed the Warriors reference, but I do remember seeing the movie. I'll have to go back and take another look at the episode. Can you give me a hint on the context without doing a spoiler faux pas?

It kept bugging me until I remembered the reference. A Google search turned up this link on YouTube. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0P6MqHccBSI) You'll recognize the homage from Chuck.

It kept bugging me until I remembered the reference. A Google search turned up this link on YouTube. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0P6MqHccBSI) You'll recognize the homage from Chuck.The drive-in scene with CC, right?

The drive-in scene with CC, right?

Can you dig it?

I do now. I completely missed that and wouldn't have made the connection in a million years. But it's definitely right on the money. Kudos.

BTW, no one here has mentioned it and clearly at this stage in the "transition," it probably warrants no more than a waking yawn, but I read last week that "Jimmy Kimmel Live" is now in HD.

Apparently they did a big dog and pony bit on the change, actually "flipping the switch" in mid-show. I haven't caught it yet, but may try to figure out the scheduling of the musical segments for DVRing...

Is it in HD here in STL? I haven't caught it yet, but since KDNL delays it after Nightline for Frazier reruns, I fear it won't be until they have HD-capable buffering hardware.

(I hope I'm wrong)

Good point -- it probably is not in HD here, due to the delay. I haven't checked yet.

it was in HD its first week on the air.

Thought I'd give an update on my return visit to see Monsters vs. Aliens at the Ronnie's. I went to the regular D-Cinema showing, not IMAX this time, to check out the difference.

I was struck immediately by the lack of contrast of the D-Cinema projection. The IMAX version had much better black levels and strikingly better contrast. Consequently, the 3D effect was much better. Also, the screen was much worse, with an extremely annoying "sheen" and lines where it looked as though screen sections may have been joined. Also, at places around the base of the screen, you could see evidence of tensioning, where the screen was pulled taut. There was also an annoying black spot on the screen that intruded itself whenever there were solid colors in that area. Don't know for sure if it was the screen or the projector.

The single most disappointing thing, though, was the lack of contrast that took away from the 3D effect. IMAX will always be my first choice from now on.

Surprise !

During the first period of Sunday's Blues game, the on-screen graphic said that Game 4 would be on "CW 11 HD." Does this mean that CW 11 will broadcast their first-ever HD Blues game? I'll believe it when I see it.

Thumbs up to Ch11. Too bad the effort doesn't translate to the ice.

Or you could just be a mature adult and accept NBC for what you supposedly think it is and watch a show that you like because of CONTENT and not because of politics or goofy engineers.

It's like saying I'm not going to watch the Simpsons anymore because of the Fox news Channel or that I won't listen to anything on KMOX because they've broadcast Rush.

Doesn't that seem a little childish? Mad about a little green logo? C'mon! All the stuff going on in the world today and this is what you decide to focus on!


:D




I agree on "Chuck" tonight -- another great episode.

It does look like the producers understand they're on the ropes and they've pretty much tied up in nice little bow most of the key plot lines. I guess there's still potential for new cliffhangers in the season finale, but I get the sense that it's probably the end of the road for the show. Too bad if it turns out that way.

Frankly, I'm starting to get fed up the games that go on with network programming, and it makes me less and less inclined to make any sort of viewing commitment to any new series. In fact, although I DVRed ABC's "The Unusuals" the past 2 weeks, I initially resisted watching them. I did break down and caught them over the weekend, and while it is interesting and has some potential, I'm unlikely to make it regular viewing. My hunch is it probably goes 12 episodes and gets yanked, pretty much like every other program that has followed "Lost" the last five seasons.

But back to "Chuck." This show and "30 Rock" are the only programs I watch on NBC, and I'm definitely not watching anything new from this network in the future. Part of this is lingering disdain for kSDk's engineering incompetence, but more so I resent that NBC News has done little else but play cheerleader for candidate/President Obama, and that the network overall has pulled out all the stops in pushing a one-sided global warming agenda that's clearly designed to benefit parent company GE's industrial divisions. Even tonight on "Chuck" we had the little green peacock logo.

Yeah, yeah, I know it's overbearing and probably ill-advised to bring politics into this sort of thing, but NBC/GE clearly thinks this is a savvy way to play the game. So in that vein, I think it's perfectly legitimate to pick up on that obvious cue and withhold my viewing as a personal "No Soup for You" referendum.

I suspect that will clear away some of the tumbleweeds... ;)

Over at the STLToday web site there's a sort of tribute to the tangled mind and mangled tongue of Cardinals broadcaster Mike Shannon:

http://www.stltoday.com/mds/sports-cardinals/html/2344

Enjoy!

Over at the STLToday web site there's a sort of tribute to the tangled mind and mangled tongue of Cardinals broadcaster Mike Shannon:

http://www.stltoday.com/mds/sports-cardinals/html/2344

Enjoy!

That was funny. I forgot how challenged the guy really is.

That was funny. I forgot how challenged the guy really is.

And that's after decades of Jack Buck's influence. I remember Buck saying one time (after Mike uttered a classic Shannonism), "Why do you do that to me?" There was also a tone of resignation in his voice, as if to say, "I've begged and prayed, but you'll just never stop saying dumb things, will you?"

I had 2 0:00 length recordings on my Dish 622 yesterday. Actually, they registered as normal length recordings in the DVR guide, but when I tried to play them back, they read 0:00. This is an old bug that I haven't seen in ages. I rebooted, but I don't know if any of today's recordings will be affected.

The only thing I missed was last night's Idol, but it was disco week, so I consider it a blessing.

Anyone else experience this? I think my 622 is becoming a little buggy. I hope it holds out until the 922 hits.

Charter company shares have been delisted from NASDAQ and are now traded over the counter.

This isn't big news, as it was a given once the bankruptcy proceedings kicked in. But it is now official.

From the St. Louis Business Journal:
______________________________________________________

Cable giant Charter Communications Inc., which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last month, was officially delisted from the NASDAQ on Wednesday, according to a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

The delisting was expected because Charter received a warning last month.

The company’s common stock is now quoted on the OTC Bulletin Board or in the "Pink Sheets” (Pink OTC: CHTRQ).

The company’s stock will be wiped out through the bankruptcy filing so when Charter emerges from its reorganization, it intends to issue new stock.
______________________________________________________

Full story: http://www.bizjournals.com/stlouis/stories/2009/04/20/daily44.html

The company’s stock will be wiped out through the bankruptcy filing so when Charter emerges from its reorganization, it intends to issue new stock.


Oh yeah, sign ME up for some of that! :rolleyes:

Some not-very-conclusive news about the fate of "Chuck" from TV Week's TVBizWire:
________________________________________________________

In an interview at the NAB Show in Las Vegas, "Chuck" creator Josh Schwartz tells the Los Angeles Times that he hopes the show's loyal audience can help keep the program on air for a second season. He had a good meeting with NBC about the show's future, although he declined to say whether he thinks the show will continue, the newspaper reports. Fans have organized a plan to buy sandwiches at Subway on Monday before the show's season finale, a gesture of support because the sandwich company was featured in a recent episode, Schwartz tells the newspaper.
________________________________________________________

Charter company shares have been delisted from NASDAQ and are now traded over the counter.

This isn't big news, as it was a given once the bankruptcy proceedings kicked in. But it is now official.

From the St. Louis Business Journal:
______________________________________________________

Cable giant Charter Communications Inc., which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last month, was officially delisted from the NASDAQ on Wednesday, according to a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

The delisting was expected because Charter received a warning last month.

The company’s common stock is now quoted on the OTC Bulletin Board or in the "Pink Sheets” (Pink OTC: CHTRQ).

The company’s stock will be wiped out through the bankruptcy filing so when Charter emerges from its reorganization, it intends to issue new stock.
______________________________________________________

Full story: http://www.bizjournals.com/stlouis/stories/2009/04/20/daily44.html

I think its funny that Charter is still on the Fortune 500 list

Some not-very-conclusive news about the fate of "Chuck" from TV Week's TVBizWire:
________________________________________________________

In an interview at the NAB Show in Las Vegas, "Chuck" creator Josh Schwartz tells the Los Angeles Times that he hopes the show's loyal audience can help keep the program on air for a second season. He had a good meeting with NBC about the show's future, although he declined to say whether he thinks the show will continue, the newspaper reports. Fans have organized a plan to buy sandwiches at Subway on Monday before the show's season finale, a gesture of support because the sandwich company was featured in a recent episode, Schwartz tells the newspaper.
________________________________________________________

The Chuck bubble seems precariously thin, especially with Leno looming large at 9:00. If Chuck is canceled to make room for more Leno, that's probably it for me, too. I could care less if they cancel Heroes. There will be almost no incentive for me to watch the Peacock. I do like their "Green" PSA's, although I think they may be missing an opportunity to capitalize on the "rainbow" our new president represents.

See there what I did? Just when you thought you got out of the OK Corral without a scratch, I go and fire a shot into the air. :D

P.S. I'll be the one sniggering behind the barn when the real bloodshed starts and the mods hand out warnings.

See there what I did? Just when you thought you got out of the OK Corral without a scratch, I go and fire a shot into the air. :D;)

If NBC does cancel "Chuck", maybe another network can pick it up like ABC picked up "Scrubs".

If NBC does cancel "Chuck", maybe another network can pick it up like ABC picked up "Scrubs".

Yeah, it doesn't matter to me where it airs. I just want it to be around next year. USA is another possibility, like Monk.

Yeah, it doesn't matter to me where it airs. I just want it to be around next year. USA is another possibility, like Monk.
USA seems like less of a possibility to me...."Chuck" is produced by the WB, not NBC/Universal. Would this preclude putting it on USA?

USA seems like less of a possibility to me...."Chuck" is produced by the WB, not NBC/Universal. Would this preclude putting it on USA?

If Warner had any brains, Chuck would be on the CW next Fall. Of course here in St. Louis, we'd only get it in 2.0 sound. :rolleyes:

All you Star Trek fans out there take note...

Star Trek The Original Series Season 1 on Blu-Ray is now available for preorder on Amazon for only $65, which is half off suggested retail on $129.99.

http://www.amazon.com/Star-Trek-Original-Season-Blu-ray/dp/B001TH16DS/ref=pd_bbs_sr_2?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1240528505&sr=8-2

That's actually less than I paid for the same series/season on DVD when it first came out several years back (also less than I recently sold it for, woo hoo)!

If Warner had any brains, Chuck would be on the CW next Fall. Of course here in St. Louis, we'd only get it in 2.0 sound. :rolleyes:
Well, that was rumored....but then shot down.

What was rumored? That Warner had any brains? :D

Warner to offer swap of HD DVDs for Blu-ray...

From today's SkyREPORT:
_______________________________________________________

It has been almost a year and a half since the HD format war (remember that?) came to an end, and Warner Bros. finally has an answer for buyers that made the wrong choice in high-def formats.

The studio on Thursday kicked off Red2Blu, a new program that allows consumers to swap out their HD DVD discs for Blu-ray versions of the same title for $4.95 each (plus $6.95 shipping). And you don't even need to return the disc, just ship Warner Bros. the original cover art to qualify.

Sounds like a pretty good deal to me, but it begs the question of why someone would want to replace all of their HD DVDs in the first place (aside from minor upgrades like Blu-ray's web features and additional deleted scenes)? Did early adopters really just throw their HD DVD players in the trash when Toshiba pulled out of the market? Is it really worth $12 a title to be 100 percent Blu-ray?

Details on the trade-in program are available at www.Red2Blu.com.
_______________________________________________________

It's $4.95 a title up to 25 titles and $6.95 for the bundle, shipping. At least that is what my Harry potter set will cost. 31 something total.

Bo

You don't even have to send in the HD DVDs. You can send in pictures of the cover art. Hasn't Warner heard of copy machines? :D

Slickdeals.net shows 2GB of memory for $4 and a 23" Dell widescreen monitor for $136 today. (http://slickdeals.net/#p3787)Ridiculous.

......

Sounds like a pretty good deal to me, but it begs the question of why someone would want to replace all of their HD DVDs in the first place (aside from minor upgrades like Blu-ray's web features and additional deleted scenes)? Did early adopters really just throw their HD DVD players in the trash when Toshiba pulled out of the market? Is it really worth $12 a title to be 100 percent Blu-ray?

Details on the trade-in program are available at www.Red2Blu.com.
_______________________________________________________

I did just the opposite. Since the war ended I have gone out and bought 3 new HDDVD players. Well actually I bought 2 and one was given to me by someone who was just getting rid of their player after getting a PS3.

Either way this is tempting if its just a single shipping charge for a bundle. I don't even own a bluray player but will eventually. I will probably end up NOT doing it, but it is something to consider to ensure I am ready to play a movie in whatever format.

Here's the list of Warner titles that you can upgrade to Blu-ray. (http://red2blu.com/products.html)

It's a single charge for shipping, apparently. That is, send in the pictures of the cover art for the titles you want to trade in, plus $6.95 shipping for the batch, and they'll send you the Blu-ray titles. So, if you trade in 25 titles, it's less than $5.30 for each Blu-ray they send you. Not bad.

DSL Reports indicates that there may be a few bumps in the road on the way to Charter's reorganization via bankruptcy.

Just a sticky little matter of pricing risk into its interest rate estimates. Assuming the same interest rate as obtained before going through bankruptcy proceedings sure seems like the sort of ill-advised financial planning that got Charter into the current mess it faces.

From DSL Reports:
____________________________________________________________

Last month Charter Communications rather cheerfully announced they'd be filing Chapter 11 as part of a restructuring that will trim about $8 billion from their $21 billion debt load.

The "good news" (to use CEO Neil Smit's words) may not be so good, given the restructuring has annoyed some investors. Charter was sued by lender JPMorgan Chase almost immediately after the restructuring was announced, and now Wells Fargo is also objecting to the company’s reorganization plan, saying Charter’s attempt to reinstate $11.8 billion of debt "may not be feasible."

...when it filed for bankruptcy, the company had obtained pre-approval from many of its key stakeholders to pursue a reorganization plan that "reinstates" the company's senior bank debt at pre-bankruptcy interest rates, after the company exits from court protection. If the company is unable to reinstate its debt, Wells Fargo said Charter's interest payments will increase by more than $500 million annually, as it will have to reprice its debt at significantly higher interest rates...

Credit default swaps insuring Charter bonds are worth roughly 2.4% of the amount of debt they insure. Charter had previously insisted that the restructuring would not impact customers, but it may not be that easy.
____________________________________________________________

It's a single charge for shipping, apparently. That is, send in the pictures of the cover art for the titles you want to trade in, plus $6.95 shipping for the batch, and they'll send you the Blu-ray titles. So, if you trade in 25 titles, it's less than $5.30 for each Blu-ray they send you. Not bad.

Actually it does specify no copies are allowed. They want your original cover art. So I would either scan it up, or just find the cover art online and print off a new cover so my HDDVD cases wouldn't be left naked.

Actually it does specify no copies are allowed. They want your original cover art. So I would either scan it up, or just find the cover art online and print off a new cover so my HDDVD cases wouldn't be left naked.

Thanks for the clarification. I'm glad Warner is making the option available. It's going to help some people who simply would rather move into the Blu-ray camp completely. I'm going to hang onto my HD DVDs, although I don't have a tremendous number of them. It's part of that "collector" mentality that's served me so well in the past. :eek:

More roadblocks for Charter Communications coming out of bankruptcy?

From the forbes.com:
____________________________________________________________

St. Louis-based Charter Communications Inc., a major cable operator controlled by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, is facing objections to its reorganization plan that could put a crimp on a fast emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Diana Adams, the U.S. Trustee overseeing the bankruptcy, criticized a stipulation in Charter's plan to essentially exempt former executives, directors and affiliated parties from being held accountable in lawsuits claiming securities law violations and other trespasses.

In a Thursday filing in U.S. bankruptcy court, Adams said her office received several letters alleging Allen had a conflict of interest in his role in crafting a bankruptcy emergence plan for Charter. Under the plan, Allen will have 35 percent voting control.

She said the committee of unsecured creditors plans to investigate Allen's dealings, but Charter's plan to exempt certain parties from liability makes the probe "meaningless."
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For the full story: http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2009/04/24/ap6337329.html

I'm a little excited with an addition I made to my systems today. I added an Octava 4x4 matrix HDMI switcher. That is, I can have up to 4 HDMI inputs routed to any of 4 HDMI outputs at the same time. At this point, I have 3 sources hooked up to 3 displays, but so far it's been flawless. Matrix switchers I've researched before have been outrageously expensive, and buggy, if you read the forums. I had a good experience with my Octava 3x2 cross switch, but it limited you to one input to one output, never all at the same time. And this Octava 4x4 was only $500. That's hundreds less than some and a couple of thousand less than others. Good stuff from this little company.

I'm looking for a Niles Infrared sensor (MS200 or similar) if anyone has one for sale or knows a company locally that sells them. I can get one on Amazon, but it never hurts to ask here.

... it probably warrants no more than a waking yawn, but I read last week that "Jimmy Kimmel Live" is now in HD.


The HD image isn't nearly as clean as other 1080i shows (Jay Leno/Jimmy Fallon) and displays a lot of 'grain' especially in dark/out-of-focus areas and there are some annoying motion artifacts in highly textured areas (the upholstered chairs exhibit this effect) - plus this weeks Thursdays & Fridays presentations suffered from video/audio stutters in the first 10-15 minutes - It would be interesting to see if are theses are problems with KNDL's recording or they are present within with the ABC feed.

Also, has anyone noticed that Jimmy Fallon's show makes far better use of the 5.1 soundfield than any of the other late night shows?

Jimmy Fallon's show makes use of all 6 speakers and is broadcast in true Dolby Digital 5.1 audio - dialog comes from the center, music from the left & right channels and audience from the rear speakers with limited use of the subwoofer during music segments.

Jay Leno is predominantly a left & right speaker stereo only show with no use of the center or rear surround speakers... despite the fact that it lights up the DD 5.1 decoder light.

David Letterman's opening credits (or whatever you want to call it) is in full 5.1 audio with the audience sounds from the rear, but after that sounds only comes from the front 3 speakers.

I heard Leno was canceled for 2 days because he's sick. God forgive me, but for a second I was thinking, let it be a lingering illness so he can't do the 9-10 slot for NBC. Still, who knows what worse idea they'd come up with. Time for confession.

Amusing thought from the "24" thread:

"Isn't it ironic how real life follows TV fiction. With all the talk of Obama releasing the Bush memos on enhanced interrogation techniques, and Cheney demanding the release of the paperwork on the important information learned from these "techniques", I am waiting for Jack Bauer to show up Sunday on Meet the Press."

It sounds like DirecTV is gearing up to provide dual live buffers on the HR-20/21 series HD DVRs...apart from sometimes flaky reliability, this is my only real gripe with DirecTV's DVRs.

I wish I had known about this testing opportunity, as I'd happily deal with any bugs...

From Engadget HD:
__________________________________________________________

DirecTV HD DVR owners keeping an eye on Cutting Edge releases got a special treat this weekend with a new update that enabled multiroom viewing and dual live buffers on HR2x and R22 receivers.

Allowing users to pause one tuner for up to 90 minutes while they watch the other, DBSTalk notes this test release is a "Very High Risk" so don't bother calling customer service if it doesn't work properly, and if you missed the downloading window Friday then you'll have to wait for the next test period -- or whenever DirecTV is confident it has worked out all the kinks -- to give the new (or old, if you're a DirecTivo owner) features a try.
__________________________________________________________

This is shocking - CW11 is showing a movie, Four Weddings and a Funeral, in HD.

For all you rabid "Chuck" fans (I know I can't be the only one, although I did need shots), the season finale is tonight. It should be a lot of fun. Please tune in.

Jordana Brewster guest stars. She's featured as one of TV Prediction's "HD Hotties" in today's issue. (http://www.tvpredictions.com/hotbrewster111008.htm) Brewster has one of those "girl next door" faces - if your next door neighbors have pearly gates and a little kid named Jesus playing in the back yard.

For all you rabid "Chuck" fans (I know I can't be the only one, although I did need shots), the season finale is tonight. It should be a lot of fun. Please tune in.

Jordana Brewster guest stars. She's featured as one of TV Prediction's "HD Hotties" in today's issue. (http://www.tvpredictions.com/hotbrewster111008.htm) Brewster has one of those "girl next door" faces - if your next door neighbors have pearly gates and a little kid named Jesus playing in the back yard.
You're not the only one. I'm making my wife go to subway for a $5 footlong and I'll go on my lunch break. I've also left Hulu going all day and pick a new ep of chuck. So I've got chuck running in the background while I am "working"

You're not the only one. I'm making my wife go to subway for a $5 footlong and I'll go on my lunch break. I've also left Hulu going all day and pick a new ep of chuck. So I've got chuck running in the background while I am "working"

I had a Subway foot long for lunch, too. :)

One of the girls behind the counter was a Chuck fan and didn't know it was on the bubble. I asked her to make sure the manager knew why I was there for Chuck.

FYI -- the Cards-Braves game is reportedly going to be accessible on both ESPN and FSNMW tonight. The ESPN broadcast is supposedly blacked out in Atlanta, but available here.

Just in case anyone wants to extend that break from Dan and Al a little bit longer...

Is anyone having trouble with Charter tonight? Mine is so pixelated that every channel is unwatchable.

Tim

Is anyone having trouble with Charter tonight? Mine is so pixelated that every channel is unwatchable.

Tim

Nope, mines been fine. Watched hockey, Law and Order, Ultimate Gamer, and Deadliest Catch right now. Both SD and HD have been fine.

... this weeks [Kimmel] Thursdays & Fridays presentations suffered from video/audio stutters in the first 10-15 minutes - It would be interesting to see if are theses are problems with KNDL's recording or they are present within with the ABC feed.


I wondered if anyone else was getting the weird audio and video "wowing" on Kimmel. It is almost like they are just sticking in the same (worn out) VHS tape every night, and recording over and over the same bad spots. How professional!

I have tried the Engineering extension from the KSDK phone tree. No one ever picks up. This morning the Today show goes black for several seconds. Yesterday Ellen was midway through and it all of a sudden started all over again & not in HD. Does anyone have their number?

I have tried the Engineering extension from the KSDK phone tree. No one ever picks up. This morning the Today show goes black for several seconds. Yesterday Ellen was midway through and it all of a sudden started all over again & not in HD. Does anyone have their number?

It's 314-555-KSDK.

Sorry, I really just made up that number, but it gives you as much of a chance of speaking to someone as the real number. Do I sound bitter? :(

Too bad, but it looks like Reaper is toast, too. That's a shame. The writing and direction are a lot sharper than before it went on break. Just my luck. Channel 11 finally gets their audio/video technical issues pretty much worked out and they take away the only show I look forward to.

I know I just said Reaper was dead, but....

tell me that Chuck is canceled and you risk extreme violence against your person. And don't give me any nonsense about not killing the messenger. I won't be buying it. On the other hand, tell me its renewed and I'll buy you a Subway. (Don't toy with me, though.)

I know I just said Reaper was dead, but....

tell me that Chuck is canceled and you risk extreme violence against your person. And don't give me any nonsense about not killing the messenger. I won't be buying it. On the other hand, tell me its renewed and I'll buy you a Subway. (Don't toy with me, though.)

We have less than a week to wait. NBC will let us know next Tuesday at their upfronts. Hopefully, they will announce renewal sooner.

With the quality of the show, I just can't believe they will cancel it, but if they do, at least it went out on top.

We have less than a week to wait. NBC will let us know next Tuesday at their upfronts. Hopefully, they will announce renewal sooner.

With the quality of the show, I just can't believe they will cancel it, but if they do, at least it went out on top.

From what I read, NBC is behind the show, and Subway has expressed support as a sponsor. Critics are enthusiastic and fans are vocal and creative in their support, but the ratings have been weak. At least we don't have long to find out its fate.

Too bad, but it looks like Reaper is toast, too. That's a shame. The writing and direction are a lot sharper than before it went on break. Just my luck. Channel 11 finally gets their audio/video technical issues pretty much worked out and they take away the only show I look forward to.

Hey Joe,

Is KPLR finally broadcasting in 5.1 channel sound again? If not, I respectfully disagree with your assertion that their issues have been worked out.

Supernatural *was* one of the best sounding shows on TV until the 5.1 channel sound disappeared.

Hey Joe,

Is KPLR finally broadcasting in 5.1 channel sound again? If not, I respectfully disagree with your assertion that their issues have been worked out.

Supernatural *was* one of the best sounding shows on TV until the 5.1 channel sound disappeared.

I haven't checked lately to see if it's still 2.0 (Dolby Pro Logic encoded and spit out by my Denon as 5.1). Last time I did check it was 2.0. What I was referring to, though, was the horrendous audio/video breakups that plagued all the broadcasts in years past. I don't mean like the occasional audio dropout or video glitch we were having with Fox. I mean the horrendous signal we had for a long time. It was literally unwatchable - dropping out every few seconds for several seconds. That's gone. Reaper has been really good since it returned, and Smallville is OK, too (signal wise, not story wise :)). It's possible that it was partially Dish Network related on my end, but I seem to remember D* users reporting the same kinds of problems.

An ex-student of mine sent me this picture:

I haven't checked lately to see if it's still 2.0 (Dolby Pro Logic encoded and spit out by my Denon as 5.1). Last time I did check it was 2.0. What I was referring to, though, was the horrendous audio/video breakups that plagued all the broadcasts in years past. I don't mean like the occasional audio dropout or video glitch we were having with Fox. I mean the horrendous signal we had for a long time. It was literally unwatchable - dropping out every few seconds for several seconds. That's gone. Reaper has been really good since it returned, and Smallville is OK, too (signal wise, not story wise :)). It's possible that it was partially Dish Network related on my end, but I seem to remember D* users reporting the same kinds of problems.

I had a problem with Reaper last night, toward the end, when Sam and Andi were talking. It seemed like someone kept pausing, then skipping ahead for about 30sec worth of the show. As far as 5.1, I wasn't paying attention.

I had a problem with Reaper last night, toward the end, when Sam and Andi were talking. It seemed like someone kept pausing, then skipping ahead for about 30sec worth of the show. As far as 5.1, I wasn't paying attention.

Come to think of it, I had an issue, too. Mine looked like as though the frame froze. It lasted about 30 seconds, then it was fine. I'd forgotten. I can't recall off hand any other problems, though.

Warning: Little SPOILER ahead.

The banter between the 3 guys (Sam, Sock and Ben) has been really good. In a recent episode, Sam tells Ben he's going to press on to get his girlfriend back. Ben, who has advised against it, says, "Good for you. Sometimes you just have to look reality in the face and say no." There's been a lot of that kind of verbal double take humor since it returned.

I haven't checked lately to see if it's still 2.0 (Dolby Pro Logic encoded and spit out by my Denon as 5.1). Last time I did check it was 2.0. What I was referring to, though, was the horrendous audio/video breakups that plagued all the broadcasts in years past. I don't mean like the occasional audio dropout or video glitch we were having with Fox. I mean the horrendous signal we had for a long time. It was literally unwatchable - dropping out every few seconds for several seconds. That's gone. Reaper has been really good since it returned, and Smallville is OK, too (signal wise, not story wise :)). It's possible that it was partially Dish Network related on my end, but I seem to remember D* users reporting the same kinds of problems.

Those dropouts were strictly on KPLR's end, because I got 'em OTA!!!

But until they get their 5.1 sound back (and until they stop deliberately dropping to an SD upconvert for the first 30 seconds of every CW show just so they can plaster their KPLR bug on the screen for that 30 seconds), KPLR will not have its act together in my book...

Not that KPLR seems to care what I think..... :rolleyes:

Sharp has a new 1080p projector - the Z15000. (http://www.projectorcentral.com/sharp_z15000_projector_review.htm) The price is $2,500, which is competitive for a 1080p projector, and a real bargain for someone looking for a relatively cheap DLP. The significant tradeoff is that it has no lens shift. You have to mount it high or low relative to the screen. I find it especially encouraging, though, because Sharp was rumored to be exiting the projector business altogether. That they would bring out a new model, even in these troubled economic times, is a good sign.

Those dropouts were strictly on KPLR's end, because I got 'em OTA!!!

But until they get their 5.1 sound back (and until they stop deliberately dropping to an SD upconvert for the first 30 seconds of every CW show just so they can plaster their KPLR bug on the screen for that 30 seconds), KPLR will not have its act together in my book...

Not that KPLR seems to care what I think..... :rolleyes:

Yes, the only station that seems interested in what its viewers think is KDNL. Thank God for Jim.

I know I'm probably dissing someone's favorite show here, but how bad has Heroes gotten? I watched the finale the other night and was in slack jawed awe of the violence they inflicted on willing suspension of disbelief. Chuck is on the bubble and a show like this gets renewed? Frak me!

A show I do like is Castle. Nathan Fillion and a beautiful woman whose name I find unpronounceable have a chemistry that reminds me of Booth and Bones. And they have to have the best logo of any show on the air right now - a bloody tipped pen stabbed like a knife into the ground.

Guess what? Castle in on the bubble, too.

The [Kimmel] HD image isn't nearly as clean as other 1080i shows (Jay Leno/Jimmy Fallon) and displays a lot of 'grain' especially in dark/out-of-focus areas and there are some annoying motion artifacts in highly textured areas (the upholstered chairs exhibit this effect) - It would be interesting to see if are theses are problems with KNDL's recording or they are present within with the ABC feed.
...............

Jay Leno is predominantly a left & right speaker stereo only show with no use of the center or rear surround speakers... despite the fact that it lights up the DD 5.1 decoder light.With Kimmel, I found a post describing the same problem at WABC-DT in NYC. So, the problem is probably not on KNDL, or ABC, but more likely a bad camera at Kimmel's studio, or not enough studio lighting.

As for Leno, his studio is stereo-only. The NBC network feed sends 5.1 metadata for all network shows, due to a dated audio infrastructure.

[QUOTE=mikemikeb;16371726]With Kimmel, I found a post describing the same problem at WABC-DT in NYC. So, the problem is probably not on KNDL, or ABC, but more likely a bad camera at Kimmel's studio, or not enough studio lighting.

As for Leno, his studio is stereo-only. The NBC network feed sends 5.1 metadata for all network shows, due to a dated audio infrastructure.[/QUOTE

Actually, some of the Kimmel issues were here...been working on it today...has to do with not enough bit rate available when injesting and playing out at the same time. I think it's resolved now.

It is just me or is there some serious lipsync issue with Smallville?

Too bad, but it looks like Reaper is toast, too. That's a shame. The writing and direction are a lot sharper than before it went on break. Just my luck. Channel 11 finally gets their audio/video technical issues pretty much worked out and they take away the only show I look forward to.It sucks. This show deserves so much better. It has been great this spring.

Aside from 'Chuck', it is the wife and I's favorite hour of television to watch together.

I'll miss seeing Missy Peregrym in HD, too.

Joe,

I just wanted to chime in that I agree with you on "Heroes." Really a shame, because it started off with great potential 3 years ago. The second season, probably harmed in part by the writer's strike, was ho-hum, but the beginning of the third season was the end of the line for me. What a train wreck. Good to hear that I made the right decision back in October.

By the way, "The Unusuals" did in the end, suck me in, and I have now watched each of the first five episodes. If my track record is anything to go by, that means only seven more will be shown before the show is canned.

On a different note, has anyone else noticed the relatively large number of public service announcements that are appearing on FSNMW during the Cardinal games? PSAs are typically a sign that an advertising slot was unsold, though I assume some stations include at least a few per day as part of their "community support" PR. But the number of PSAs during Cards games seems way up, and while some PSAs have always been included during games, I would assume those were only grudgingly given up. I don't have any basis for comparison, but I don't recall anything like the number of PSAs running in the past couple of years.

Am I imagining this? Does anyone have a game from last year on tape or DVR? It would be interesting to compare the number of PSAs this year versus last year.

I have to apologize to everyone here. I think I'm responsible for Ch. 11's problems last night in Smallville. They started off with an audio sync problem that let you have a sandwich between the time you saw the picture and the time the words were heard. Then they switched to SD and stayed there for the rest of the show. The other day, I offered some praise for Ch. 11 for addressing their audio and video problems. They must have gotten wind of that, so they made sure last night to remind us of who's really boss around here. Bob, you just keep right on reminding me of that fact. :D

BTW, we have to nail down that Star Trek viewing. Just a few days left until it premieres.

I don't know about the commercials, but didn't I hear that FSNMW was going to have some 120 games in HD this year? Seems like most times when I tune in, it's SD. Anyone post an HD schedule? If so, I must have missed it.

I don't know about the commercials, but didn't I hear that FSNMW was going to have some 120 games in HD this year? Seems like most times when I tune in, it's SD. Anyone post an HD schedule? If so, I must have missed it.My recall on this is a bit fuzzy, but I think it was 100 HD games out of the 130 broadcast by FSNMW.

That means 30 non-HD FSN games, spread over 6 months, or about five per month. I think we are running a little bit ahead of that pace, but not so much that we're irretrievably off track for either the 100 or 30 numbers.

But (as always) I reserve the right to be wrong... ;)

PS -- Am I the only one getting the MOXI banner ad here? Seems ironic in an online sort of way...

Slickdeals.net lists some outrageous offers on external and internal hard drives. Check out the deals for Thursday, April 30th. (http://slickdeals.net/#p3787)

My recall on this is a bit fuzzy, but I think it was 100 HD games out of the 130 broadcast by FSNMW.

That means 30 non-HD FSN games, spread over 6 months, or about five per month. I think we are running a little bit ahead of that pace, but not so much that we're irretrievably off track for either the 100 or 30 numbers.

But (as always) I reserve the right to be wrong... ;)

PS -- Am I the only one getting the MOXI banner ad here? Seems ironic in an online sort of way...

I think there was a Post-Dispatch article a couple of weeks ago that noted the SD broadcasts were front loaded in the schedule to the point where after this Nationals series there are only about 10 more SD broadcasts scattered throughout the year.

I think there was a Post-Dispatch article a couple of weeks ago that noted the SD broadcasts were front loaded in the schedule to the point where after this Nationals series there are only about 10 more SD broadcasts scattered throughout the year.

Thanks. Good to know.

So far anyway, the Cardinals have been a surprise. I was just waiting for Carpenter to tweak something, and when it happened (and they proceeded to blow that game) I thought, "Here we go again." But they're playing really well despite the problems, and Franklin has been terrific. Could be a fun season after all.

Wait... did I learn nothing from praising Ch. 11? What have I done?

I just read in entertainment news that Sean Penn and Robin Wright are getting a divorce. I've always said that Penn's stock rose in my book when the two got married. I guess it just took her a little more time to realize what I knew all along. Like a big weenie, he didn't even acknowledge her when he accepted his Oscar for Milk. I thought they looked strained, even though they went to the event together.

What do you think? Should I go ahead and make my move now?

...

What do you think? Should I go ahead and make my move now?

Get in line...

Get in line...

You're sure you want to be ahead of me in that line? :D

You're sure you want to be ahead of me in that line? :D
Sean's been linked to Natalie Portman, so i'm ok with it:p

Sean's been linked to Natalie Portman, so i'm ok with it:p

OMG. She's a Harvard girl. What's wrong with these women? The guy must have assets not suitable for mainstream photography.

I just read in entertainment news that Sean Penn and Robin Wright are getting a divorce. I've always said that Penn's stock rose in my book when the two got married. I guess it just took her a little more time to realize what I knew all along. Like a big weenie, he didn't even acknowledge her when he accepted his Oscar for Milk. I thought they looked strained, even though they went to the event together.

What do you think? Should I go ahead and make my move now?

Sure Joe, then you and Robin can double date with Shania Twain and me this weekend. :rolleyes:

Saw the new X-Men Wolverine movie at the Midnight show at the Mills Thursday night.

For background, I thought the first two X-Men movies were excellent. Not to the level of the first two Spider-Man movies or the new Batman movies, but well worth seeing and owning.

The third X-Men movie sucked.

This new Wolverine movie sucked worse.

Of course, all the teenyboppers in the theater who couldn't shut the hell up if their lives depended on it sure didn't help.

I'm now rethinking my plans to see Star Trek as a midnight show next week. Hey Joe and Jedi, how's Sunday afternoon sound?

Saw the new X-Men Wolverine movie at the Midnight show at the Mills Thursday night.

For background, I thought the first two X-Men movies were excellent. Not to the level of the first two Spider-Man movies or the new Batman movies, but well worth seeing and owning.

The third X-Men movie sucked.

This new Wolverine movie sucked worse.

Of course, all the teenyboppers in the theater who couldn't shut the hell up if their lives depended on it sure didn't help.

I'm now rethinking my plans to see Star Trek as a midnight show next week. Hey Joe and Jedi, how's Sunday afternoon sound?

I could make that work. I actually prefer weekday, daytime showings, but that might not be possible. The noise level is usually more bearable and I can actually hear most of the dialogue.

Jimmy Kimmel started off fine in HD, last nite. Halway through, it came out of commercials in SD and remained that way. Also, the audio still seems to pump during many ABC network shows whether in HD or SD. Sometimes, the elevated background noise is raised so much it sounds like the actors are standing in traffic.

Jim, what's going on?

Here's a cheat sheet of shows and their likelihood to return in the fall. (http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2009/04/fall-tv-cheat-s.html) There are some surprises on here for me. Sarah Connor, for instance, is still listed as on the bubble, and I thought it was official. I read a report saying they had closed up shop and the actors were looking for other work.

hey guys, its been a while since I've visited. Wondering if anyone else is having problems with Audio dropouts on NBC? There may be other channels, but this is by far the most noticeable one. Its almost unwatchable. I'm trying to see if its on my end or if everyone else is having the same problems.

DirecTV feed of KSDK. HR20/700 DirecTV DVR. Optical out to receiver. I've already tried replacing the optical cable. Wondering if there's something wrong with my DVR, Audio Reciever, or the feed. Anyone else experiencing these audio dropouts?

hey guys, its been a while since I've visited. Wondering if anyone else is having problems with Audio dropouts on NBC? There may be other channels, but this is by far the most noticeable one. Its almost unwatchable. I'm trying to see if its on my end or if everyone else is having the same problems.

DirecTV feed of KSDK. HR20/700 DirecTV DVR. Optical out to receiver. I've already tried replacing the optical cable. Wondering if there's something wrong with my DVR, Audio Reciever, or the feed. Anyone else experiencing these audio dropouts?
I've been having audio dropouts on all three of my DirecTV HR2x receivers for years. I've complained. If you actually get to an upper tier tech support person they'll tell you it's a known problem and they don't know when it'll be fixed. Their hardware is crap. I'm pretty fed up with how bad usability is. If the HD Tivo doesn't improve things I've already planned to change to DISH early next year.

hey guys, its been a while since I've visited. Wondering if anyone else is having problems with Audio dropouts on NBC? There may be other channels, but this is by far the most noticeable one. Its almost unwatchable. I'm trying to see if its on my end or if everyone else is having the same problems.

DirecTV feed of KSDK. HR20/700 DirecTV DVR. Optical out to receiver. I've already tried replacing the optical cable. Wondering if there's something wrong with my DVR, Audio Reciever, or the feed. Anyone else experiencing these audio dropouts?

I have not noticed any recent audio drop outs on any channels with either of my two HR20-700s. As a matter of fact, I can't recall having any issues with either one of them for as long as I've had them.

I've been the messenger of death for several shows lately, so I'm glad to report this, even if it is just a rumor:

Chuck will be back next year. (http://www.deadlinehollywooddaily.com/nbc-renews-chuck-medium-law-order/) Medium and Law and Order are in that rumor, too. We should find out for sure tomorrow.

Everything I'm reading about the new Star Trek film says it's really good (though I won't read the spoilers). Due out Friday, of course.

Here's a cheat sheet of shows and their likelihood to return in the fall. (http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2009/04/fall-tv-cheat-s.html) There are some surprises on here for me. Sarah Connor, for instance, is still listed as on the bubble, and I thought it was official. I read a report saying they had closed up shop and the actors were looking for other work.I see from the cheat sheet, that both "Dollhouse" and "The Unusuals" are unlikely to breathe for a second season.

I already predicted "The Unusuals" would fail (even though I think it's quite good), and then proceeded to get invested in it anyway. I guess the good news here is that "Lost" only has one more season to run, so the "Lost" curse can't kill off too many more new series between now and next May.

I really don't understand how these decisions are made, and I seriously doubt that any of the people making them have any idea at all what they are doing. They all appear to subscribe to the theory that doing something stupid is always better than doing nothing.

I also find it interesting that the "cable networks" don't seem as prone to this sort of hyperactive cluelessness. They put shows on the air and give them a fair chance to find an audience. I've recently discovered "Burn Notice," a show that wouldn't have the slightest shot at more than a half dozen airings on ABC, FOX, CBS or NBC. It's also hard to see shows like "Monk," "Rescue Me," "Damages," etc. having escaped the hatchet if they had had the misfortune of attracting major network interest in the first place.

Looks like we won't get official word on Chuck for maybe a couple of weeks. I think the rumor from this weekend was just that - a rumor, and wishful thinking by Chuck fans.

You're right about the cable networks giving shows a chance. If Chuck were in the same place as Monk, it probably wouldn't be gasping for air right now. Also, they could strip most of the FX budget out of Chuck and it wouldn't miss a beat, as far as I'm concerned. It's the storytelling and the characters that have me hooked. Hopefully, with just a little budget trim by NBC, it will be back next year. Fine with me.

The problem with Chuck (and the reason I never watch) is it's up against some big time shows. Monday nights are tough

Monday night is not a bad night for broadcast TV. Are you OTA only now, Tom? If so, I can see where it might be a problem. My Dish DVR eliminates the need to make a decision about whether to watch one particular show or another. Even if I had to do that, I'd still choose Chuck. It wouldn't really matter if I had the choice of Chuck or ANY other show on television, though. I'm a true Chuck fanatic. :)

LOL, I have a DVR (Charter) but can only record two shows at the same time. With House, 24, Big Bang Theory and 2 and 1/2 men it get's a lot of action on Monday nights

I've never seen a single episode of Chuck......

LOL, I have a DVR (Charter) but can only record two shows at the same time. With House, 24, Big Bang Theory and 2 and 1/2 men it get's a lot of action on Monday nights

I've never seen a single episode of Chuck......

Who knows what next fall will bring, but apparently Heroes will be paired with a different show on Mondays. Chuck, if it's picked up, will move to a different night. Maybe that'll give you a chance to check it out. I'm tellin' ya, you'd like it. :)

Who knows what next fall will bring, but apparently Heroes will be paired with a different show on Mondays. Chuck, if it's picked up, will move to a different night. Maybe that'll give you a chance to check it out. I'm tellin' ya, you'd like it. :)And here's another solution until then...

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0934814/dvd

LOL, I have a DVR (Charter) but can only record two shows at the same time. With House, 24, Big Bang Theory and 2 and 1/2 men it get's a lot of action on Monday nights

I've never seen a single episode of Chuck......

If you have netflix, get season 1 on Blu, then get season 2 in a few months, then you'll be up to speed.:D

I didn't really even want to watch Chuck when it first started, but I hated everything else that was on monday nights, so I watched the pilot. Now, I will torture NBC executives if they don't bring it back.

If you have netflix, get season 1 on Blu, then get season 2 in a few months, then you'll be up to speed.:D

I didn't really even want to watch Chuck when it first started, but I hated everything else that was on monday nights, so I watched the pilot. Now, I will torture NBC executives if they don't bring it back.

I caught Chuck when it premiered and have been hooked ever since. I know plenty of people who, for whatever reason, didn't tune in. I've "infected" quite a few of them, and I've been a regular poster in the Chuck thread here at AVS. We have a lot of fun over there with the series, taking apart the stories, nitpicking plot holes, discussing its use of music, and uncovering sometimes obscure movie allusions. If you decide to check it out, you might want to avoid my posts, as they tend to be long-winded and pedantic - you know, just like they are here.

That reminds me - I'd like my Chuck Season 1 Blu-ray discs back, Adrian. Bring 'em to the Star Trek showing. :)

It looks like the Cardinals pre-game is now being shot in HD. This lends some further credence to the suggestion last week that HD will be more frequent from here on out.

It looks like the Cardinals pre-game is now being shot in HD. This lends some further credence to the suggestion last week that HD will be more frequent from here on out.
bout time!

Seems a bit odd that they've (apparently) front-loaded the schedule with so much SDTV. I wonder who makes that decision.

Also, Doug's next post will be 4k :)

No way of knowing for sure, but it might be a matter of lead times needed to reserve the equipment and infrastructure required for HD mobile productions. This was more of a problem 3 or 4 years ago, but probably hasn't completely gone away.

No way of knowing for sure, but it might be a matter of lead times needed to reserve the equipment and infrastructure required for HD mobile productions. This was more of a problem 3 or 4 years ago, but probably hasn't completely gone away.
ah yes. 3 or 4 years ago when there were what, 10 games on FSMW-HD? And wow how I dreamed about recording them in HD one day. haha

I was out walking my dog when the Cardinals game started. Anyone hear Mike Shannon's interview of the women's 2-time chess champion on KMOX tonight? Listening to him try to figure out what to ask a chess champ and comparative literature major was like...

it was like...

well, it was Mike Shannon. I put it in the trash can with that little white plastic bag I took along for my dog.

Like the first song of a robin in spring, there are few things more predictable than a new rumor that DirecTV is going to be sold. I mean, the whole business ought to be mounted up on casters, so it can be pushed from one side of the country to the other.

The link below is a Financial Times story that speculates that recent restructuring of Liberty Media and DirecTV is a sign that a sale or merger may be in the works:

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/2edf3f0a-390d-11de-8cfe-00144feabdc0.html?nclick_check=1

FWIW, I cannot believe that Malone would be stupid enough to be looking to sell or merge DirecTV in the near term. At the best of times, sales or mergers of DirecTV has been fraught with difficulties and delays in getting the required government approvals from the SEC and FCC. No one knows for sure yet, because no one has been through the process under the new government, but it's difficult to see the regulatory environment being friendlier under the new administration than under either of the past two.

Malone is a lot of things, but he's no fool, and only a fool would be the first to test the bureaucratic waters for the blockbuster sort of transaction that a sale to AT&T or Verizon would be in the current environment.

Uhm...I was already going to bring them, Joe. Bob hooked me up with several Chuch Season 2 episodes. I think you got me hooked. I tried to call the other day but couldn't get through and couldn't leave a message. BTW, can Displaymate be used for light pj calibrations in full HD, like Digital Video Essentials? Or is it lacking in any way?

Adrian

Uhm...I was already going to bring them, Joe. Bob hooked me up with several Chuch Season 2 episodes. I think you got me hooked. I tried to call the other day but couldn't get through and couldn't leave a message. BTW, can Displaymate be used for light pj calibrations in full HD, like Digital Video Essentials? Or is it lacking in any way?

Adrian

Yeah, I've been having network issues and my MagicJack was down for a little while. Nobody was able to get through for several hours that day.

Yes, Displaymate can be used for projector calibrations. I've used it many times for that. Computer magazines and even consumer video magazine reviewers use it. It's a good piece of software.

The second season Chuck Blu-ray discs are rumored to be up for release in August - no official time has been set that I know of. I have all of the second season on my Dish 622, but there were some issues with a couple of the episodes, including the penultimate one from a couple of weeks ago. In some ways, it was my favorite. I watched it online at NBC.com, and the opening scenes that my 622 didn't record were amazing.

Ahh, I should have kept trying to call. Hopefully I'll see you in a couple of days. Is there a tutorial embedded in the Displaymate program? Do you have any pointers for me?

Adrian

Ahh, I should have kept trying to call. Hopefully I'll see you in a couple of days. Is there a tutorial embedded in the Displaymate program? Do you have any pointers for me?

Adrian

I just found out that Displaymate doesn't run on Vista 64bit. It runs just fine on XP and Vista 32bit. It's pretty self explanatory. I've used the video version of the program, and it has just about any pattern you'd need.

Hey Joe, Good call on Props to CW11. Last night they didn't even try to play Reaper in HD. Why not call the World Series for the Cardinals and a cure for cancer while you're at it?:p

I just found out that Displaymate doesn't run on Vista 64bit. It runs just fine on XP and Vista 32bit. It's pretty self explanatory. I've used the video version of the program, and it has just about any pattern you'd need.Joe, I don't have any direct experience with Vista 64-bit, but I wonder if there's the option of running in compatibility mode? In case you're not familiar with that, in 32-bit Vista, compatibility is accessible via the executable's Properties dialog box. If that exists in 64-bit, it may be worth trying as I've found it has salvaged a couple of programs that otherwise would not run in Vista or Win7 32-bit...

Hey Joe, Good call on Props to CW11. Last night they didn't even try to play Reaper in HD. Why not call the World Series for the Cardinals and a cure for cancer while you're at it?:p

The Cardinals will never win another series and I'll never see a cure for cancer in my lifetime.

How's that? :D

Joe, I don't have any direct experience with Vista 64-bit, but I wonder if there's the option of running in compatibility mode? In case you're not familiar with that, in 32-bit Vista, compatibility is accessible via the executable's Properties dialog box. If that exists in 64-bit, it may be worth trying as I've found it has salvaged a couple of programs that otherwise would not run in Vista or Win7 32-bit...

I'll give that a try, Doug. Thanks.

No go, Doug. It just doesn't like Vista 64, even in Win XP Compatibility mode. Good suggestion, though.

I have to mention again what a great device the Octava HDMI Matrix switcher is. It's a 4-in, 4-out matrix switcher, so any input can go to any output at any time. Great device and really reasonable, especially when compared to products from the bigger names like Geffen.

The Cardinals will never win another series and I'll never see a cure for cancer in my lifetime.

How's that? :DThree Words: Anti Billy Goat :cool:

I have to mention again what a great device the Octava HDMI Matrix switcher is. It's a 4-in, 4-out matrix switcher, so any input can go to any output at any time. Great device and really reasonable, especially when compared to products from the bigger names like Geffen.

You must have one complicated setup. I just bought a 4X1 HDMI switcher for my Pioneer plasma, which unfortunately only has 2 HDMI inputs. It comes with it's own remote, but also works great with my Harmony 880 remote. I bought it from monoprice and the thing is terrific, especially at less than $30. The only gripe people have about it is the LED lights are too bright, but it doesn't bother me too much.

You must have one complicated setup. I just bought a 4X1 HDMI switcher for my Pioneer plasma, which unfortunately only has 2 HDMI inputs. It comes with it's own remote, but also works great with my Harmony 880 remote. I bought it from monoprice and the thing is terrific, especially at less than $30. The only gripe people have about it is the LED lights are too bright, but it doesn't bother me too much.

I have an Octava 3x2 "cross switch" that I've been using for quite some time. It allows you to switch any 3 sources between 2 displays, but it can't show the same source on both displays at the same time. The matrix switches can. Unfortunately, matrix switches are usually very expensive (and often buggy). The Octava matrix switch bucks that trend, and it works very well.

All my HD sources that don't require being close at hand (satellite receivers and computers) are in the basement, connected to the Octava matrix switch. HDMI cables run from there to the HDTV displays. It tends to reduce the clutter.

Hey guys,

Lately I have been using the computer to watch more content. Not necessarily HD content, but just programming in general.

TivoHD has allowed me to watch youtube as well as Netflix and Amazon, but I also watch content from places like Hulu, iTunes and the MLBtv package.

My computer is in the next room and I have an unfinished basement, so running cables are not a concern.

What is the best method to run a cable from the pc to the tv and still be able to "switch" between the two? would i need a signal amplifier (I would guess its about 30 feet we are talking about)

I am not a computer savvy person at all, so I'll need k.i.s.s. and idiot-proof specific method and materials.

thanks guys.

What kinds of connections are you using and what sort of TV?

anyone else not getting HD shows (reaper tuesday, supernatural tonight) in HD? they are crappy looking SD with the infamous white jumpy code at the top... anyone else have this on CW11 (KPLR)... i have charter HD

KDNL is sliding downhill and gaining speed (Sorry, Jim). Audio on network shows is still inconsistent with background noise often "pumping" during quiet dialog. This is very obvious when played thru the home theater.

The Jimmy Kimmel Show continues to be unwatchable with constant video freezes and bursty audio buzzing. This usually starts after the first commercial break. Is anyone minding the store? Channel 30 used to be the best by far :-(

It seems like I've been noticing much more variation in sound & speech volume across all channels than I have in the past. (Primarily watching on Dish Network).

It seems that a loud background noise during a Cardinals broadcast, for example, will temporarily attenuate the announcers.

It seems like I've been noticing much more variation in sound & speech volume across all channels than I have in the past. (Primarily watching on Dish Network).

It seems that a loud background noise during a Cardinals broadcast, for example, will temporarily attenuate the announcers.

Not to dismiss your observation, Jebo, but the issue I'm reporting on Channel 30 is OTA and therefore clearly their fault. It's understandably duplicated on the Dish local as well.

(Jim, where are you? I hope all is well.)

I live in Bloomsdale MO (54 miles south of St Louis). We want to switch from Satellite to OTA. I have nothing but a very basic knowledge of electronics. We have several televisions including new 46" sony flatscreen. We also have 4 other tv's, but we'll deal with those issues later...one step at a time.

My initial problem is this: Based on our latitude and longitude and a 40 foot (rough guesstimate) placement of an antenna, antennaweb.org says that no digital channels will be available. Based on the exact same input, tvfool.com says there WILL in fact be digital channels available.

#1 Which to believe?

#2 What antennae TO PURCHASE? (We have an old, huge antenna on the roof already that we've never used, but recent storm damage ripped pieces of it off. The boom is still intact.)

#3 Can I use the cables that are running through the house for the Satellite, for the OTA? These cables were run completely new 4 years ago by a professional when we moved into the home.

#4 Is there anyone in my area that helps/installs OTA?

Thank you for your feedback.

What kinds of connections are you using and what sort of TV?

I have a Samsung. Bought in 2005, I don't know the model number off the top of my head.

The computer is a basic Dell, purchased in 2003.

It has an input labeled "PC" as well as the usual HDMI and Component, S-video,etc...

Not to dismiss your observation, Jebo, but the issue I'm reporting on Channel 30 is OTA and therefore clearly their fault. It's understandably duplicated on the Dish local as well.

(Jim, where are you? I hope all is well.)

I have been working on this issue and very irritated that it's not corrected yet! The HD delay feed comes from Columbus. The server is breaking up when recording at the same time it's playing out a delay feed for two different stations. The manufacturer says it should work, but it doesn't. If I was in Columbus it would be fixed! We will probably delay record it in St. Louis, but it will be SD only...better that break-up.

I have a Samsung. Bought in 2005, I don't know the model number off the top of my head.

The computer is a basic Dell, purchased in 2003.

It has an input labeled "PC" as well as the usual HDMI and Component, S-video,etc...

This could be a little complicated - hard to say without knowing the specifics. However, it might be possible to add one of ATI's 4000 series Radeon cards to the computer. That would give you dual DVI outputs that could send both picture and sound to the TV via HDMI. Ordinarily, that's not possible with DVI, but the ATI card uses a proprietary adapter that converts DVI to HDMI with audio. A single HDMI cable from the computer to the Samsung would turn your computer into a HTPC. As I said, it could be more complicated than that, especially depending on the resolution of your computer monitor. My computer "monitor" is really a 32" Sharp 1080p TV that accepts a signal from the Octava matrix switcher I've been talking about. How simple it might be would depend on which resolutions your computer monitor and Samsung TV can accept.

You can always hook up an additional mouse and keyboard for the room with the Samsung. That can get a little sticky, too. Wireless won't always work over that distance, and running USB that far requires a USB hub or active USB extension cable. I use both to get the distance I need.

To answer the questions from lostinbloomsdale:

Yes, you are well within range. I know of a viewer in Farmington who was able to receive all channels. However, to do so, you will clearly need to replace that old "huge" antenna with a thankfully much smaller UHF antenna intended for fringe reception. Look for a high-gain or yagi on http://www.antennaweb.org. You'll also need to place it as high up as possible. If you're in a valley, this might be an issue.

Your inside wire should be fine as long as it's coax with good connectors and as few splitters as possible. If in doubt, run new cables. Point the antenna almost due North.

I have been working on this issue and very irritated that it's not corrected yet! ......... If I was in Columbus it would be fixed! We will probably delay record it in St. Louis, but it will be SD only...better that break-up.

Noooooooo! Not SD! That will kill it for sure. Option 1 should be to broadcast it in real time. If the pinheads running the station won't let you do that for the sake of syndicated reruns, can't they at least get you your own "TiVO" device to delay the event in HD? C'Mon, the HD "leader" has been dong that for years and is almost at the point of getting it right.

Transmitting it in SD is like purgatory. I for one, won't even bother to capture it for time-shifting.....even though I enjoy the show.

(Rant off)

Noooooooo! Not SD! can't they at least get you your own "TiVO" device to delay the event in HD? C'Mon, the HD "leader" has been dong that for years and is almost at the point of getting it right.

Jim, could you talk about the kind of equipment that's required for a station to integrate recording and playback into a professional station? I've worked with pro gear, so I know how expensive it can be. It also has to communicate with other studio gear in a way that the average consumer doesn't have to worry about.

We consumers are used to HDMI, DVI or component video for carrying signals, but the pro gear can be quite different. Also, the control systems must be much costlier.

I realize most people could care less about such things, but those of us who post here probably would. Any chance we could get a tour of your facilities one of these days? Some years back, we did a tour of Ch. 11. It was before I got to know a lot of the people who post here regularly, even though I think I remember a few of them there. I think I recall your being there, too, but I could be wrong.

Thank you! The current antenna mount is on about a 10 foot pole mounted to the double fireplace chimney on our two story home that sits on a hill. There is, however another hill that sits to the northeast...Well I can only try! Any other suggestions?

Should I use a pre-amp?

Is there anyone in the area (to trust) that does installs? My husband keeps telling me we should just pay someone to come out and take care of it, but I like to know how things work, and sometimes that means doing it myself.

Thank you again for your time.

I live in Bloomsdale MO (54 miles south of St Louis). We want to switch from Satellite to OTA. I have nothing but a very basic knowledge of electronics. We have several televisions including new 46" sony flatscreen. We also have 4 other tv's, but we'll deal with those issues later...one step at a time.

My initial problem is this: Based on our latitude and longitude and a 40 foot (rough guesstimate) placement of an antenna, antennaweb.org says that no digital channels will be available. Based on the exact same input, tvfool.com says there WILL in fact be digital channels available.

#1 Which to believe?

#2 What antennae TO PURCHASE? (We have an old, huge antenna on the roof already that we've never used, but recent storm damage ripped pieces of it off. The boom is still intact.)

#3 Can I use the cables that are running through the house for the Satellite, for the OTA? These cables were run completely new 4 years ago by a professional when we moved into the home.

#4 Is there anyone in my area that helps/installs OTA?

Thank you for your feedback.

Add the link for your TVfool analysis. Without it, we can only guess since we don't know the particulars of the last mile or two that the signal has to travel to your location.

Based solely on your zipcode, it's easily done with a good UHF antenna and a good preamp. However, that last mile or so can make or break medium to long range reception.

I have a 5" battery/AC operated B&W TV with AM/FM. It has an antenna connection in the back. It also has a UHF switch. I bought a female coupler at Radio Shack so I could add another cable from my roof top antenna to the TV in case of a power outage. The cable I use now is a short run. I want to be able to put the TV on the other side of the room on my coffee table.

The guy said I would still need a converter after the DTV change. Is this true? If all the locals move to UHF shouldn't I be able to pull OTA via the UHF like any other older TV with UHF rabbit ears? I currently get PBS & Ch 11 and a couple of more. Is the RS guy an idiot or am I missing something here?

Even though D* moved to MPEG-4 locals, I still have my OTA channels that are more resistant to rain fade during bad weather.

Thank you! The current antenna mount is on about a 10 foot pole mounted to the double fireplace chimney on our two story home that sits on a hill. There is, however another hill that sits to the northeast...Well I can only try! Any other suggestions?

Should I use a pre-amp?

Is there anyone in the area (to trust) that does installs? My husband keeps telling me we should just pay someone to come out and take care of it, but I like to know how things work, and sometimes that means doing it myself.

Thank you again for your time.

It sounds like your chances for success are high. An amplifier can't hurt, but you must first have a signal to pick up. I don't think the hill to the NE should be much of a problem, but you won't know if you don't try.

I have a 5" battery/AC operated B&W TV with AM/FM. It has an antenna connection in the back. It also has a UHF switch. I bought a female coupler at Radio Shack so I could add another cable from my roof top antenna to the TV in case of a power outage. The cable I use now is a short run. I want to be able to put the TV on the other side of the room on my coffee table.

The guy said I would still need a converter after the DTV change. Is this true? If all the locals move to UHF shouldn't I be able to pull OTA via the UHF like any other older TV with UHF rabbit ears? I currently get PBS & Ch 11 and a couple of more. Is the RS guy an idiot or am I missing something here?

Even though D* moved to MPEG-4 locals, I still have my OTA channels that are more resistant to rain fade during bad weather.

No. It will not work without a converter. Although the frequency of the DTV channels are in the same UHF location the TV currently receives, the method of transmission is a radical shift from NTSC (analog) to ATSC (digital). These methods have nothing in common and your small TV won't even "see" the DTV channels.

Keep in mind the converter will also require power during an outage. I suggest you wait until the transition. ATSC portables should eventually appear. Probably quite pricey at first but eventually $.99 with the purchase of a Big Mac with Fries and a Coke.

Thanks for the clarification. So an older TV that uses UHF rabbit ears also needs a converter box? Both of my regular sets are hooked up to D* so I have not looked into this at all. I only half paid attention to the PSAs about it but I did think a UHF would solve it. Guess not.

No. It will not work without a converter. Although the frequency of the DTV channels are in the same UHF location the TV currently receives, the method of transmission is a radical shift from NTSC (analog) to ATSC (digital). These methods have nothing in common and your small TV won't even "see" the DTV channels.

Keep in mind the converter will also require power during an outage. I suggest you wait until the transition. ATSC portables should eventually appear. Probably quite pricey at first but eventually $.99 with the purchase of a Big Mac with Fries and a Coke.

You may want to look at this thread http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1081640&highlight= that I posted to earlier. I still have not run it until the battery is depleted but using for some time on battery has been fine.

CVS's web site still lists it and on sale at $103.99 reduced from $129.99. As mentioned in the other thread, I purchased during an introductory sale with CVS "Extra Care Card" @ $99 and my cost was reduced slightly more by using a credit card that gives me points for purchases that can eventually be turned into cash back. My local store no longer has any in stock; but I am in a small town and not sure if that is the case everywhere. I understand that Radio Shack also carries one under a different brand name at an even higher price but I haven't checked there in a while since I don't need another!

Jane B.

I live in Bloomsdale MO (54 miles south of St Louis). We want to switch from Satellite to OTA. I have nothing but a very basic knowledge of electronics. We have several televisions including new 46" sony flatscreen. We also have 4 other tv's, but we'll deal with those issues later...one step at a time.

My initial problem is this: Based on our latitude and longitude and a 40 foot (rough guesstimate) placement of an antenna, antennaweb.org says that no digital channels will be available. Based on the exact same input, tvfool.com says there WILL in fact be digital channels available.

To get an accurate estimate of which channels you can receive, make sure you do the analysis for an exact location (address or coordinates). The area around Bloomsdale has many terrain obstructions, so depending on your location (which side of a hill you're on) and height, there can be a big difference in the amount of signal available.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=142207&stc=1&d=1241815248

Best regards,
Andy

Thanks for the links. I may look into getting a digital tuner my Dell Mini 9 netbook. Not sure yet. I have another month to figure it out

Noooooooo! Not SD! That will kill it for sure. Option 1 should be to broadcast it in real time. If the pinheads running the station won't let you do that for the sake of syndicated reruns, can't they at least get you your own "TiVO" device to delay the event in HD? C'Mon, the HD "leader" has been dong that for years and is almost at the point of getting it right.

Transmitting it in SD is like purgatory. I for one, won't even bother to capture it for time-shifting.....even though I enjoy the show.

(Rant off)

Ok...Ok We'll only go to SD if there's a meltdown. They've made more changes in the server config for tonight. If it doesn't work tonight it may be SD next week until it's fixed...can't keep experimenting on air!
Jim

Jim, could you talk about the kind of equipment that's required for a station to integrate recording and playback into a professional station? I've worked with pro gear, so I know how expensive it can be. It also has to communicate with other studio gear in a way that the average consumer doesn't have to worry about.

We consumers are used to HDMI, DVI or component video for carrying signals, but the pro gear can be quite different. Also, the control systems must be much costlier.

I realize most people could care less about such things, but those of us who post here probably would. Any chance we could get a tour of your facilities one of these days? Some years back, we did a tour of Ch. 11. It was before I got to know a lot of the people who post here regularly, even though I think I remember a few of them there. I think I recall your being there, too, but I could be wrong.

I'd be more than happy to show you the station and yes I was at the ch. 11 meeting. However, there's not much to see at the studio since all the servers etc are in Columbus. You might find the transmitter interesting. The HD equipment we installed was over 1 1/5 million dollars! Quite a bit different than a home system. We run 5 stations from one control room... all running on redundant servers and a complicated automation system. Also, all commercials and programs need to be ingested from different sources and different file formats. Another problem is that no one manufacturer makes all the equipment necessary...getting one companies software to talk to other software and preserve lipsync and closed captioning is a challenge...a lot of finger pointing.

Noooooooo! Not SD! That will kill it for sure. Option 1 should be to broadcast it in real time. If the pinheads running the station won't let you do that for the sake of syndicated reruns, can't they at least get you your own "TiVO" device to delay the event in HD? C'Mon, the HD "leader" has been dong that for years and is almost at the point of getting it right.

Transmitting it in SD is like purgatory. I for one, won't even bother to capture it for time-shifting.....even though I enjoy the show.

(Rant off)

Ok...Ok We'll only go to SD if there's a meltdown. They've made more changes in the server config for tonight. If it doesn't work tonight it may be SD next week until it's fixed...can't keep experimenting on air!
Jim

I can't get over the people that are soooo upset about SD rather than HD! I am just so glad to not have to get my antenna rotated just so to get KDNL at all (and not always successful after doing so) as i did when the broadcasts were only in analog. I suggest they try getting the analog version out in the neighborhood of where US Routes 51 & 161 cross even with a 30' antenna, rotor, and pre-amp!
Jane B.

Here's my emergency TV.

The TV sits atop a Wingard RCDT09A which is coupon eligible and battery operable when you buy the optional battery holder or use an external 9V adaptor.

As pictured, the TV and converter are being powered by a 12V battery pack.
If you have 15 D-cells laying around you can populate the battery trays shown on the right.

As Jane points out, the availability of portable ATSC LCD sets is much better now but this is an option to keep an old portable out of a landfill.

http://www.salaman.org/fiveinchtv.jpg

davesalaman
The problem with the old ones for some of us was the lack of closed captioning. I had been looking for a very long time and not finding battery operated TVs that support closed captioning. Also, yours is the first report that I have seen of a converter box that has a built in provision for battery operation. Another thing that just occurred to me is; does the converter provide closed captioning to a TV that does not have closed captioning when used alone?

Jane B.

I'd be more than happy to show you the station and yes I was at the ch. 11 meeting. However, there's not much to see at the studio since all the servers etc are in Columbus. You might find the transmitter interesting. The HD equipment we installed was over 1 1/5 million dollars! Quite a bit different than a home system. We run 5 stations from one control room... all running on redundant servers and a complicated automation system. Also, all commercials and programs need to be ingested from different sources and different file formats. Another problem is that no one manufacturer makes all the equipment necessary...getting one companies software to talk to other software and preserve lipsync and closed captioning is a challenge...a lot of finger pointing.

I'm going to take you up on that, Jim. Could you PM me with some times you might be able to give me a tour? No hurry - I know you're a busy guy.

It's amazing how expensive pro gear is. Just before I left the university, they spent a boatload of money upgrading the TV studio. My biggest regret about that was that even doing an SD upgrade was really high. HD just wasn't going to happen, and unfortunately the purchases meant that they weren't going to consider upgrading again for years. I tried to steer them toward upgrading those things that would translate to an HD studio and not waste too much money on SD - audio, lighting, prompter, anything that would integrate seamlessly into an HD studio. We got an HD-upgradeable switcher and CG, as well as HD monitors wherever possible. The costs add up very quickly.

Yes, the CC comes from the converter, and this converter supports CC.


davesalaman
The problem with the old ones for some of us was the lack of closed captioning. I had been looking for a very long time and not finding battery operated TVs that support closed captioning. Also, yours is the first report that I have seen of a converter box that has a built in provision for battery operation. Another thing that just occurred to me is; does the converter provide closed captioning to a TV that does not have closed captioning when used alone?

Jane B.

This afternoon (05-09-09) while watching golf got a crawl along the bottom of the screen that tomorrow's broadcast is being switched to WRBU (whoever in the world that is!). Looked it up; and KSDK which I can get fine in Centralia, IL (with 30' tower, amp, and rotor) is shown as 65.6 miles away and WRBU is shown as 74.6 miles away and in a slightly different direction. If they are going to carry Cardinal games ONE weekend day why couldn't it be Saturday so that the HALF of the golf that they are showing could be on the day that includes the conclusion. I, for one, would really prefer to see the day that we find out who wins.

Thanks for reading my rant.
Jane B.

This afternoon (05-09-09) while watching golf got a crawl along the bottom of the screen that tomorrow's broadcast is being switched to WRBU (whoever in the world that is!). Looked it up; and KSDK which I can get fine in Centralia, IL (with 30' tower, amp, and rotor) is shown as 65.6 miles away and WRBU is shown as 74.6 miles away and in a slightly different direction. If they are going to carry Cardinal games ONE weekend day why couldn't it be Saturday so that the HALF of the golf that they are showing could be on the day that includes the conclusion. I, for one, would really prefer to see the day that we find out who wins.If you have a rant about kSDk, you should know that you're going to be standing in a VERY LONG line.

But kSDk aside, the root of the problem here is that there's a built-in incompatibility with a major network affiliate handling local sports broadcasts, particularly for baseball, basketball and hockey, due to the large number of games and resulting pre-emptions of network-originated programming. No doubt there's a strong and attractive financial incentive for the local station to present Cardinal baseball broadcasts, but it inevitably results in unhappy local viewers who don't care about the local sports team and equally unhappy networks executives who lose out a chunk of their national audience.

This largely explains why local sports broadcasts on network affiliates are nowadays pretty much limited to the weekend, as that approach at least avoids stepping on the toes of the most lucrative portion of the network's prime-time programming. FWIW, this is a major departure from the 1960s and 1970s, when the 50 or so Cardinal baseball broadcasts were all on NBC affiliate kSDk, resulting in repeated pre-emptions of local network programming.

Anyway, the local sports advertising jackpot is the reason that golf gets trumped by Cardinal baseball this weekend -- there's a lot more local advertising dollars to be reaped from Cardinal baseball than a golf tournament with relatively limited local appeal.

But it does get worse. My guess, based on your location, is that you're unlikely to receive WRBU at all. Many households in the immediate St. Louis area have difficulty receiving this station, though that tends to be a bigger problem with the digital signal rather than the soon-to-be-defunct analog signal. I hope I'm wrong and you're not completely shut out.

WRBU is a second-rate operation in every possible way, and I'd suggest that rather than blaming them, which is pointless as they simply don't have the finances to even pretend to be a legitimate TV station, you'd be better off lobbying kSDk to make alternative carriage arrangements with some other station in future. But be warned that kSDk is not known for its attentiveness to viewer feedback. :rolleyes:

But thanks for your rant -- there's nothing better for me than having a chance to slam my two least favorite local broadcasters in a single post. Almost feels like I've done a day's work here... ;)

Ok...Ok We'll only go to SD if there's a meltdown. They've made more changes in the server config for tonight. If it doesn't work tonight it may be SD next week until it's fixed...can't keep experimenting on air!
Jim

Jim,

I finally had time to sit down and view last night's Jimmy Kimmel show. The results of the server changes were very positive. Other than some slight video noise early in the show that appeared as occasional small black streaks with with some brief audio garbling, the quality was quite good and the program lasted the full hour in HD without reverting to SD. There were no video freezes no loud buzzes. I can surely live with this.

Great work. Keep it up.

"Chuck" comes in second (a distant second) in voting to determine which "on the bubble" TV series was most deserving of renewal. "Terminator: The Sarah Conner Chronicles" was named by over 50% of voters.

From Celebrity News Service (http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7015060228):
____________________________________________________________ ____

Los Angeles: CA (CNS) - The fans have spoken. Out of all the shows currently on the fence for the Fall 2009 season, they want 'Terminator" to be back. Save One Show, a poll conducted by E! each year, asks television fans what's their pick for the show in danger of cancellation which needs to be saved. After 300,000 votes, "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles" led the pack with 53% of the vote.

The runner-up, NBC's "Chuck" was a far second with 25%. "Dollhouse" followed with 10%, while "Life" earned 8% and "Privileged" another 4%. Previous winners of the Save One Show poll include Angel, One Tree Hill, and Veronica Mars.
____________________________________________________________ ____

This afternoon (05-09-09) while watching golf got a crawl along the bottom of the screen that tomorrow's broadcast is being switched to WRBU (whoever in the world that is!). Looked it up; and KSDK which I can get fine in Centralia, IL (with 30' tower, amp, and rotor) is shown as 65.6 miles away and WRBU is shown as 74.6 miles away and in a slightly different direction. If they are going to carry Cardinal games ONE weekend day why couldn't it be Saturday so that the HALF of the golf that they are showing could be on the day that includes the conclusion. I, for one, would really prefer to see the day that we find out who wins.

Thanks for reading my rant.
Jane B.

As a DirecTv customer I get 46 in SD over the satellite, but in preparation for today's final round of golf on 46, I got an OTA antenna so I could watch in HD. Well, 1:00 came and went and much to my dismay all they had to show me on 46-1 was low def golf. It was in HD yesterday on 5-1. What is the problem today? We can't figure how to get the HD feed over to 46? Give me a break. If you are gonna sell out to show some baseball, at least make a real effort to support the fans of other sports while you are at it.

"Chuck" comes in second (a distant second) in voting to determine which "on the bubble" TV series was most deserving of renewal. "Terminator: The Sarah Conner Chronicles" was named by over 50% of voters.

From Celebrity News Service (http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7015060228):
____________________________________________________________ ____

Los Angeles: CA (CNS) - The fans have spoken. Out of all the shows currently on the fence for the Fall 2009 season, they want 'Terminator" to be back. Save One Show, a poll conducted by E! each year, asks television fans what's their pick for the show in danger of cancellation which needs to be saved. After 300,000 votes, "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles" led the pack with 53% of the vote.

The runner-up, NBC's "Chuck" was a far second with 25%. "Dollhouse" followed with 10%, while "Life" earned 8% and "Privileged" another 4%. Previous winners of the Save One Show poll include Angel, One Tree Hill, and Veronica Mars.
____________________________________________________________ ____

Depends on which poll you read, who conducted it and when. A poll I read had Chuck ranking first among on-the-bubble shows. We're supposed to know its fate by May 19. I'm trying not to think about it until then.

Bob, Adrian and I saw the new Star Trek film this afternoon. You'll probably enjoy it more if you're a Trek fan, but I think it'll play well for a broad audience (though non-Trekkers won't understand some of the laughter). First rate movie by J. J. Abrams!

I'm trying to remember if all the debris we saw during the movie was typical of most films from the past, or if I'm just seeing it so much now because I'm used to not seeing any at all with digital projection.

I suspect it's hardcore Trek fans that'll hate it most. I know I did.

- Trip

As a DirecTv customer I get 46 in SD over the satellite, but in preparation for today's final round of golf on 46, I got an OTA antenna so I could watch in HD. Well, 1:00 came and went and much to my dismay all they had to show me on 46-1 was low def golf. It was in HD yesterday on 5-1. What is the problem today? We can't figure how to get the HD feed over to 46? Give me a break. If you are gonna sell out to show some baseball, at least make a real effort to support the fans of other sports while you are at it.As noted, WRBU is a marginal operation. They have never done anything in HD, as they apparently lack the infrastructure required to do so. They do have a digital channel (47-1), but it is difficult to receive, even in the immediate metro area, and they provide no HD.

This might change in the future, but I wouldn't count on it.

I suspect it's hardcore Trek fans that'll hate it most. I know I did.

- Trip

Depends on what you mean by hardcore. I don't own any pointy ears or red shirts, and I don't speak Klingon, but I've seen all the movies and all the TV series. I also found a lot to like in this new Trek movie. There were loads of laughs and tons of fun. Can't ask for much more than that from a summer scifi movie. I'll be going back.

Depends on what you mean by hardcore. I don't own any pointy ears or red shirts, and I don't speak Klingon, but I've seen all the movies and all the TV series. I also found a lot to like in this new Trek movie. There were loads of laughs and tons of fun. Can't ask for much more than that from a summer scifi movie. I'll be going back.

My mom went to see it over the weekend and said she enjoyed it very much. She said it was different, but liked how the actors familiar mannerisms (sp?) came out in the younger characters. She highly recommended the wife and I get a babysitter and go check it out. Like you, I've seen all the movies and watched the various tv series, but am not involved beyond that. I like some better than others, but overall, I'm a star trek fan. It will be a good test to see if my wife likes it as she's not really a sci-fi fan.

I wish there were more IMAX theaters here. In order to see Star Trek in IMAX I have go to Sappington? I went to the IMAX web site and it looks there are only two. Is this correct?

I wish there were more IMAX theaters here. In order to see Star Trek in IMAX I have go to Sappington? I went to the IMAX web site and it looks there are only two. Is this correct?

I think that's right - the Science Center and the Ronnie's. I plan on catching it again at a non-Imax theater to see how it compares, just as I did with Monsters vs Aliens. MvsA was better in Imax, but the debris in the light path was really irritating, just as it was with Star Trek. The overall experience is still better at home than in the theater, except for the 3D aspect. I'm looking forward to the Blu-ray.

Here's some info on the upcoming releases of Trek movies and TOS on Blu-ray. (http://trekmovie.com/2009/02/16/cbs-paramount-announce-first-star-trek-blu-ray-sets-tos-s1-all-tos-movies-coming-aprilmay/)

Forgot to mention that Best Buy is having a promotional starting tomorrow. You can get all 6 original movies in Blu-ray for $20 if you buy a Samsung Blu-ray player or HTiB (details are a little fuzzy for me, so check their online ad). If you're planning to get into Blu-ray anyway and you're a Trek fan, it's not a bad deal.

The Ausiello files is now listing Chuck as a safe bet to return this fall. (http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2009/04/fall-tv-cheat-s.html) Michael Ausiello writes for Entertainment Weekly and is well known as a pretty reliable source online. Not confirmed, by any means, but a much better sign that Chuck will get a third season. Castle looks to return, too. More good news.

My mom went to see it over the weekend and said she enjoyed it very much. She said it was different, but liked how the actors familiar mannerisms (sp?) came out in the younger characters. She highly recommended the wife and I get a babysitter and go check it out. Like you, I've seen all the movies and watched the various tv series, but am not involved beyond that. I like some better than others, but overall, I'm a star trek fan. It will be a good test to see if my wife likes it as she's not really a sci-fi fan.

Be sure to report on the wife's reaction. I'm guessing a lot of non-Trek fans will enjoy this movie. As I said, though, they'll probably be completely baffled at why so many people are laughing in some parts of the story. The character whose lines will rise above even that, I think, is Scotty. He's hilarious, whether you've seen Trek or not.

As noted, WRBU is a marginal operation. They have never done anything in HD, as they apparently lack the infrastructure required to do so. They do have a digital channel (47-1), but it is difficult to receive, even in the immediate metro area, and they provide no HD.

This might change in the future, but I wouldn't count on it.

It is kinda weird that they don't do any HD content.

I've been able to pick up 46.1 pretty solid now for a couple months. about 40 miles away I believe.

As far as the golf/nbc goes, I'm pretty sure that the KSDK is going to have more people watching the Cardinals than golf and probably get to charge more for advertising. I don't think that channel 5 is "selling out" for baseball...this is a baseball town and I am sure most stations would jump at the chance to carry the Cards. It just happens that 5 bid the most money.

I would much rather have the Cards back on channel 11 for saturday and sunday games and the once in a while weekday games. As late as 2005, channel 11 even showed a NLDS game (when the cards played the padres, game 4 I think)

I sometimes think you guys overeact a bit to this stuff though. I've been OTA-only for 15 months now, so any minor problems and I am really screwed. Most of you guys can fall back on cable or sat. It does bug me when stuff messes up or when stations don't live up to their potential, but...

I have had less problems with OTA and my TivoHD than I did with Direct or Charter.

If it makes anyone feel better, St. Louis isn't the largest market without an HD My Network TV affiliate.

Boston's affiliate is WZMY-DT 35 (50-1). Their signal is a whopping 7.3 kW and is not even close to co-located with the other Boston stations. On top of that, it is in 480i only. It might as well be cable-only for as well as the signal gets out, and the lack of HD means nobody really goes out of their way for it.

So, I guess the moral of the story is at least you can receive WRBU's signal? I'm sure I was going somewhere with this... :D

- Trip

It is kinda weird that they don't do any HD content.Even doing "passthrough" HD from a network feed requires some infrastructure at the local station. That's why WBRU has never shown any HD. Nothing weird about it -- it's about money, or more specifically the lack of it.

Even doing "passthrough" HD from a network feed requires some infrastructure at the local station. That's why WBRU has never shown any HD. Nothing weird about it -- it's about money, or more specifically the lack of it.

Since they went digital-only, I've been able to pick up WRBU fairly reliably in Webster. But the Roberts Brothers are having financial problems elsewhere. WRBU may not be long for the world.

Koplar (or someone else with cash) could buy it, move to Shrewsbury, and start catching some of the juicier sports deals. Additionally WPXS's RF 51 has a surprising reach. Flash cut it to DTV, run 5 SD channels, and watch hospital ER's fill with AVS forum members... :)

I found it interesting to watch the season finales of Lost and Fringe, along with the new Star Trek film, all within a week of one another. It's not too hard to see J. J. Abrams' mark all over these shows, and the story similarities among them.

That's a good thing, IMO.

Reaper may be toast as a regular returning CW program, but it may have a new life of sorts as a syndicated or cable show - but maybe without its arguably most interesting character. (http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/television/news/e3id56fc6d97f8a77c1c8b0b61e07e4bc3f) I can't imagine Reaper without Tyler Labine, the outrageously amoral Sock.

Let me tell you a story about something that happened with Charter yesterday. Wait... you'd never believe me. No one in their right mind would believe a company would do anything that stupid and incompetent, and that showed such disregard for its customers.

In related news, Charter has obtained a temporary restraining order against DirecTV. (http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601103&sid=aXDKv6FEjUsk&refer=us) Charter claims that DirecTV has made false claims that its bankruptcy will affect customer service. I have to agree with Charter on this one. As it goes through with its bankruptcy proceedings, Charter's customer service will continue to be unimaginably horrible, just as it is now.

Let me tell you a story about something that happened with Charter yesterday. Wait... you'd never believe me. No one in their right mind would believe a company would do anything that stupid and incompetent, and that showed such disregard for its customers.

Aww, c'mon...give us the scoop.

Aww, c'mon...give us the scoop.

Alright, you twisted my arm.

Long story a little shorter:

I called Charter in December for my parents, to drop Charter telephone. They had been trying out MagicJack for a couple of months, to see if they could live with it. They decided they could, so they needed only Charter Internet ($19.99/month for 1.5mbps, more than enough for MajicJack).

I had to talk with Charter for an hour or so back in December to get them to acknowledge an over-charge on my folks' account. When all was said and done, they agreed to correct the extra charges and drop Charter telephone. They would remain as Internet customers.

I didn't think about this until my mom called the other day and said she couldn't remember getting a bill from Charter for some time. We looked at the checkbook the next day. Sure enough, no bill since December. Funny thing, though, they've been getting the service all along - no interruption since the call.

Now, my mom is a real straight arrow and she doesn't like the idea of not paying for a service she's getting. (I'm too cynical, after way too many infuriating customer service calls with too many big companies. I would have just stayed quiet.) Anyway, I call Charter and get the typical Indian-outsourced service rep.

Long, long story a little shorter - my parents have not been Charter customers since December. My phone arrangements in December (probably over 2 hours on the phone getting the details hammered out) have vanished into the ether. All my folks' Charter services were canceled, so they owed nothing. They had also received the service the whole time, for free.

OK, fine, let's just get them set back up in the system. Sure, we can do that, for $30/month for a few months, then it'll go up to $50. I say, "You mean you're going to charge them $50/month for 1.5mbps Internet service?" "Yes, sir."

Rage ensues - uselessly.

I want to talk to someone in the United States. "Sorry, sir, you'll have to go see them in person." I call the local Charter number, and, sure enough, no one ever picks up at corporate headquarters. I go to a local Charter office and, sure enough, same results. "I'm sorry, but we can't give you the $19.99/month service because it's not in our computer. There's no way we can even put it in."

By this time I've bitten my tongue in half and cracked 3 teeth.

My mom wanted to do the right thing - and she would have been willing to pay for the 5 months of free service. Not good enough for Charter. The usual threat of "You're going to lose me as a customer!" doesn't apply in a situation where they wrote you off as a customer 5 months ago and didn't bother to tell you about it.

Can you imagine the complaint you'd have to lodge about Charter's behavior in this case? "Yes, your honor, this company provided us with free Internet service for 5 months. When we called and asked them to let us pay the amount we had agreed upon, they refused to honor it. They said they would cut us off the next day if we didn't pay 50% more than that amount.

So much for trying to do the right thing.

As of Monday, my folks will be AT&T DSL customers, with MajicJack. It'll be a transparent transition for them. MajicJack doesn't care how it gets onto the Net, as long as the ramp is open.

Did I hear that Charter has declared bankruptcy? Inconceivable.

Alright, you twisted my arm.

Long story a little shorter:

I called Charter in December for my parents, to drop Charter telephone. They had been trying out MagicJack for a couple of months, to see if they could live with it. They decided they could, so they needed only Charter Internet ($19.99/month for 1.5mbps, more than enough for MajicJack).


I would have just told my mom Obama's stimulus guarantees free internet and not to worry about it :)

Did I hear that Charter has declared bankruptcy? Inconceivable.

It's appears to be a mute point now, but you outta send that whole story to stevegm@chartercom.com (at least I think that's the email, just not sure if the first "com" is one "m" or two like "comm"). 97.1 FM advertises for Charter frequently (much to my dismay reading so much about how horrible the service is), and often mentions that email as one that will get you to their head general manger and get a direct response from him. I've never had Charter or plan to ever have Charter, so I've never used it. Just thought I'd pass it along for anyone with future Charter issues.

Smallville finale in SD, fantastic KPLR. Thanks for that. What is the point of all the effort if you can't even pull off HD for finales of the network's top shows?

Smallville finale in SD, fantastic KPLR. Thanks for that. What is the point of all the effort if you can't even pull off HD for finales of the network's top shows?

KPLR hasn't been broadcasting in HD for the past few weeks. I don't know what the problem is though.

Fox2 isn't letting the red headed step child use the cool toys...

Fox2 isn't letting the red headed step child use the cool toys...

Both channels are owned by the same company and managed by the same people in the same building. It's odd that KPLR can be so consistently off the mark.

Have you considered that magicjack won't work if your DSL service is out, or your power is out? Hope they don't need to call 911 when that happens.

Have you considered that magicjack won't work if your DSL service is out, or your power is out? Hope they don't need to call 911 when that happens.

Backup generator in their back yard, backup cell phone and I live across the street. I try to take care of my folks. :)

Does anybody know if KSDK is having problems getting their HD syndicated shows? I've stumbled onto "Ellen" and "Wheel Of Fortune" 4 or 5 times in the last two weeks, and they've been SD each time.

Backup generator in their back yard, backup cell phone and I live across the street. I try to take care of my folks. :)

Sounds like you have it covered then...:)

Does anybody know if KSDK is having problems getting their HD syndicated shows? I've stumbled onto "Ellen" and "Wheel Of Fortune" 4 or 5 times in the last two weeks, and they've been SD each time.


Jeopardy started in HD last week. Last week they started there college tournament. Every single episode last week started in HD but about midway though the sound would start to stutter. Then they switch over to SD. They would sometimes come back in HD after the break. One day they did not. It was very annoying. I haven't watched this weeks episodes yet.

Jeopardy started in HD last week. Last week they started there college tournament. Every single episode last week started in HD but about midway though the sound would start to stutter. Then they switch over to SD. They would sometimes come back in HD after the break. One day they did not. It was very annoying. I haven't watched this weeks episodes yet.

Yes, I tuned in for that competition, too. I'd never seen that sort of issue in one of their telecasts (or anywhere else, for that matter). It's exciting that they've decided to mix things up a little, with new and interesting problems. :D

For some reason over the past couple of days I had to do a rescan on some of my TVs to get channel 2.1 back... then channel 9 over the last day or so seems to have dropped their power level... lots of dropouts where before it was rock solid. BTW, it's not my main DTV antenna, because it hasn't moved and some of the sets have individual antennas and they acted the same way, plus signal level on all the other channels remains unchanged.

channel 9 over the last day or so seems to have dropped their power level... lots of dropouts where before it was rock solid.
Tree leaves?

Is 5 starting SNL earlier now? Last week my recording started near the end of the opening skit. This week it missed the opening skit completely and started on opening credits.

Is 5 starting SNL earlier now? Last week my recording started near the end of the opening skit. This week it missed the opening skit completely and started on opening credits.

Mine too. At least we know it's not our DVR's. But it kinda sucks because the opening (usually political) sketch is the only part of the show that I actually watch!

Apparently, Chuck is a sure thing for a 13 episode 3rd season. Dollhouse and Reaper may return in one form or another, too, and Sarah Connor is not officially dead, either. It's a wild ride, with all the networks working hard to get shows to trim their budgets.

I live in Bloomsdale MO (54 miles south of St Louis). We want to switch from Satellite to OTA. I have nothing but a very basic knowledge of electronics. We have several televisions including new 46" sony flatscreen. We also have 4 other tv's, but we'll deal with those issues later...one step at a time.

My initial problem is this: Based on our latitude and longitude and a 40 foot (rough guesstimate) placement of an antenna, antennaweb.org says that no digital channels will be available. Based on the exact same input, tvfool.com says there WILL in fact be digital channels available.

#1 Which to believe?

#2 What antennae TO PURCHASE? (We have an old, huge antenna on the roof already that we've never used, but recent storm damage ripped pieces of it off. The boom is still intact.)

#3 Can I use the cables that are running through the house for the Satellite, for the OTA? These cables were run completely new 4 years ago by a professional when we moved into the home.

#4 Is there anyone in my area that helps/installs OTA?

Thank you for your feedback.
Thank you to all who assisted me in my change-over from Dish to OTA! It was a successful switch. Bought a UHF only antenna, removed the old UHF-VHF antenna from the mast that was already "attached" to our chimney, put the new one up, hooked into the already existing cables that run to our 5 televisions, and voila! we have all digital OTA channels from St Louis and it even pulled one from Cape Girardeau! NO PREAMP was needed!!
I am absolutely giddy! For the cost of one month of DISH...we are now OTA and no longer supplying income to Dish!! yee ha!
My next step is to get tivo or something...I'm going to start researching that now...
THANK YOU for giving me the confidence to try!

Thank you to all who assisted me in my change-over from Dish to OTA! It was a successful switch. Bought a UHF only antenna, removed the old UHF-VHF antenna from the mast that was already "attached" to our chimney, put the new one up, hooked into the already existing cables that run to our 5 televisions, and voila! we have all digital OTA channels from St Louis and it even pulled one from Cape Girardeau! NO PREAMP was needed!!
I am absolutely giddy! For the cost of one month of DISH...we are now OTA and no longer supplying income to Dish!! yee ha!
My next step is to get tivo or something...I'm going to start researching that now...
THANK YOU for giving me the confidence to try!
OOPS!
Forgot one thing. OTA digital has an even better picture! Unbelievable!

Thank you to all who assisted me in my change-over from Dish to OTA! It was a successful switch. Bought a UHF only antenna, removed the old UHF-VHF antenna from the mast that was already "attached" to our chimney, put the new one up, hooked into the already existing cables that run to our 5 televisions, and voila! we have all digital OTA channels from St Louis and it even pulled one from Cape Girardeau! NO PREAMP was needed!!
I am absolutely giddy! For the cost of one month of DISH...we are now OTA and no longer supplying income to Dish!! yee ha!
My next step is to get tivo or something...I'm going to start researching that now...
THANK YOU for giving me the confidence to try!

If you have a computer, there are some interesting devices for recording OTA, such as the SiliconDust HDHomerun. (http://www.silicondust.com/products/hdhomerun) You record to the computer's hard drive and play it back on the PC and HDTV (if you can hook your TV up to the computer). Not as hard as it might sound, but it can get a little tricky. Several people here on the St. Louis thread do it.

Chuck is back, along with Dollhouse. Sarah Connor is gone for sure. News is hot and heavy this week.

OOPS!
Forgot one thing. OTA digital has an even better picture! Unbelievable!

The reason is that the signal is recompressed when it goes to Dish and gets bounced off the satellite. OTA is the native MPEG2 HD. Satellite is recompressed into MPEG4 and at a much reduced bitrate.

OOPS!
Forgot one thing. OTA digital has an even better picture! Unbelievable!

What antenna did you finally end up with?

What antenna did you finally end up with?
Actually, my husband bought one from the local Radio Shack in Ste Gen. It's UHF only for $79.99. He usually doesn't get involved in these things...he just wants everything to work, but I guess since he's the big TV watcher in the house he decided to get involved. A young man he spoke with at the Radio Shack in Perryville told him that they'd gotten nothing but positive feedback on them. Any feedback on his choice?

I'm the researcher in the family, so I was proud of him for jumping in...didn't want to critcize his choice if it worked...

We still can't believe the picture. He thought that dropping satellite would leave him with some fuzzy 1960's picture. He's amazed what he's getting for "free".

Still can't thank you guys enough for giving me the confidence to push the issue and ditch DISH!

He was used to recording on a VIP622, so now I'm researching the DTV Pal for recording. We have computers, but I know he will want it to be handy to record and use, so using his laptop not really a consideration...

Actually, my husband bought one from the local Radio Shack in Ste Gen. It's UHF only for $79.99. He usually doesn't get involved in these things...he just wants everything to work, but I guess since he's the big TV watcher in the house he decided to get involved. A young man he spoke with at the Radio Shack in Perryville told him that they'd gotten nothing but positive feedback on them. Any feedback on his choice?

I'm the researcher in the family, so I was proud of him for jumping in...didn't want to critcize his choice if it worked...

We still can't believe the picture. He thought that dropping satellite would leave him with some fuzzy 1960's picture. He's amazed what he's getting for "free".

Still can't thank you guys enough for giving me the confidence to push the issue and ditch DISH!

He was used to recording on a VIP622, so now I'm researching the DTV Pal for recording. We have computers, but I know he will want it to be handy to record and use, so using his laptop not really a consideration...

I love it. You and your husband are the anti-stereotypes for how this kind of thing usually plays out when we hear about it on this forum. :D

I love it. You and your husband are the anti-stereotypes for how this kind of thing usually plays out when we hear about it on this forum. :D
Well, we do have younger, close friends and neighbors who help us out an awful lot. They were actually the ones who stood on the chimney of our 2-story home to change out the antenna for us! I would have gotten up there alone, but wouldn't have been able to get everything tightened down and all without someone else, and my husband can't do roof work. He fell once years ago and that really sours your ambition for going up again.

Besides...I've ALWAYS been anti-stereotype! No fun in that!

Checking into HULU.COM now for taking care of my husband's SCIFI "fix"....

Well, we do have younger, close friends and neighbors who help us out an awful lot. They were actually the ones who stood on the chimney of our 2-story home to change out the antenna for us! I would have gotten up there alone, but wouldn't have been able to get everything tightened down and all without someone else, and my husband can't do roof work. He fell once years ago and that really sours your ambition for going up again.

Besides...I've ALWAYS been anti-stereotype! No fun in that!

Checking into HULU.COM now for taking care of my husband's SCIFI "fix"....

I know a guy who fell 20 feet off a roof once. The damage was not pretty, but he had to go back up. He's a roofer.

Let us know how your adventure moving from Dish to OTA goes.

Keep on chipping away at the stereotypes. Conformity is so boring.

I have finally had enough with Charter and am switching over to Direct. I had planned on doing this a couple years ago - but with the recent rate hike and issues with my DVR, I have to stop being lazy and make the move. I am wondering if someone here could help me with my set-up and/or if they know of any local installers?

I have 3 hd tv's(2 will need DVR's) and 2 sd tv's that do not need DVR's. What would be the best installation plan for this package - what dish would they use?

How do I find a good installer - is it better to go with a local company or just to call DirectTv? I live in O'Fallon, MO.

Thanks for your time and help in advance.
Jeff

DirecTV just had their rate hike a month or three ago, so you should be stable for the next six months.

Trust me, the satellite companies raise their rates just like the cable companies do. They are paying for the same content.

Call Premier Communications down in Fenton. They installed mine and did a very good job. I don't know if they take orders directly, but they can tell you what needs to be done.

I have finally had enough with Charter and am switching over to Direct. I had planned on doing this a couple years ago - but with the recent rate hike and issues with my DVR, I have to stop being lazy and make the move. I am wondering if someone here could help me with my set-up and/or if they know of any local installers?

I have 3 hd tv's(2 will need DVR's) and 2 sd tv's that do not need DVR's. What would be the best installation plan for this package - what dish would they use?

How do I find a good installer - is it better to go with a local company or just to call DirectTv? I live in O'Fallon, MO.

Thanks for your time and help in advance.
Jeff
Have you considered going with OTA and ditch all the companies?

Watch DirecTV pricing...it looks great now, but I believe that is the pricing for the first year and you have to commit to a two year agreement....

Sorry I can't help with an installer...I live south. I hope everything goes well with your installation.

Have you considered going with OTA and ditch all the companies?

Watch DirecTV pricing...it looks great now, but I believe that is the pricing for the first year and you have to commit to a two year agreement....

Sorry I can't help with an installer...I live south. I hope everything goes well with your installation.

Yes, I did consider OTA and I do get good reception - that's they way I started out before Charter offered true HD service. To be honest - both my family and I are hooked on several of the programming options cable and satellite provide that are not available OTA. I know the prices keep increasing - but at this time I think it is still something I should include in our monthly budget.

DirecTV just had their rate hike a month or three ago, so you should be stable for the next six months.

Trust me, the satellite companies raise their rates just like the cable companies do. They are paying for the same content.

Call Premier Communications down in Fenton. They installed mine and did a very good job. I don't know if they take orders directly, but they can tell you what needs to be done.

Thank you for the information, I will give Premier a call and see what they have to say.