Yup, it isn't easy. However, you can get lucky if you try.

I got a letter from Comcast today saying effective Sept. 3 the price of the hd dvr is going to $12.95 from $9.95 !! They didn't even wait till the usual February price increase !!By the same token, that fee didn't actually go up in February.

Comcast Sports Network New England HD :)

Comcast now has full control of FSN England, all their other RSNs = fulltime HD channels.

awesome!

I got a letter from Comcast today saying effective Sept. 3 the price of the hd dvr is going to $12.95 from $9.95 !! They didn't even wait till the usual February price increase !!

-Ken

Does the letter distinguish between DCT (no CableCard) and DCH (CableCard) ? I am wondering if it will cost $12.95 + CC Fee for a DCHx416.

Wow. You get Nasa-TV? I sure wish I had that. I haven't had that for over 10yrs.
that's a long time ago...want me to tape some episodes on my beta-max and send them to you :)

If the DVR rates keep going up ( I have 2 of them ), I might have to go back to Cablecard because this is starting to get a tad too expensive.

Has anyone been able to get cablecards out of Comcast here in MA?
Im in Carver and Just picked up the series 3 hd tivo. Went to comcast and they said it would be $60 something to have their techs install 2 cablecards - $45 for the 1st card and $23 for the 2nd.

Also, 2 cable cards would cost me $3/70 a month, whereas on their web site it says no more than 1.95 for the 2nd card...

FYI: I have comcast hd dvr (S/A box.. old adelphia network), and the tivo is replacing that box.

that's a long time ago...want me to tape some episodes on my beta-max and send them to you :)Well Nasa-TV is available for free on crappy feeds over the net, I wish they would do it broadband like they used to.:(

Interest in science/space exploration has pretty much dried up to nothing.

Comcast Sports Network New England HD :)

Comcast now has full control of FSN England, all their other RSNs = fulltime HD channels.

Assuming FSNE goes HD soon, hopefully that will mean all Celtics games are in HD too (not just home games). With the new "Big Three", they are going to get a massive amount of new viewers. Good time to roll that out if I were them.

Assuming FSNE goes HD soon, hopefully that will mean all Celtics games are in HD too (not just home games). With the new "Big Three", they are going to get a massive amount of new viewers. Good time to roll that out if I were them.

FSNE is already in HD. I'm in a formerly-Adelphia system, and we've had this channel for quite some time. The downside is that it plays a demo loop when the Celtics aren't playing, which is about 95% of the time. Quite a waste of bandwidth to dedicate a full HD channel to 2-4 NBA games a week...

On Comcast in Manchester, there is no dedicated FSNE HD channel (yet). When there is a Celtics home game, the HD version is broadcasted on channel 881.

Always bothered me when channels have a demo loop (or nearly as bad, repeats of the 5 HD episodes of shows from 2003). If they are going to do such a half attempt at an HD channel, at least broadcast what is on the SD channel and add HD versions of shows when possible.

Did anyone have NFL Network HD pop up on channel 853? I don't subscribe to the package to be able to view the content on the channel, but I did see it listed on 853 when flipping through the other channels I do get in the 800s.

Did anyone have NFL Network HD pop up on channel 853? I don't subscribe to the package to be able to view the content on the channel, but I did see it listed on 853 when flipping through the other channels I do get in the 800s.

I noticed it today, and since I subscribe to the Sports and Entertainment package, I get the channel, though it's showing some old SD programming right now.

I noticed it today, and since I subscribe to the Sports and Entertainment package, I get the channel, though it's showing some old SD programming right now.

If you could update the board on how much content is actually in HD, that would be great. I'm thinking about getting this, but it wouldn't be worth it to me if it's like ESPN2 (barely any HD content). I assume all the games would be in HD, but if they have alot of other shows in HD I'd probably pick it up.

Thanks.

Has anyone been able to get cablecards out of Comcast here in MA?
Im in Carver and Just picked up the series 3 hd tivo. Went to comcast and they said it would be $60 something to have their techs install 2 cablecards - $45 for the 1st card and $23 for the 2nd.


FYI: I have comcast hd dvr (S/A box.. old adelphia network), and the tivo is replacing that box.

I thought that all you have to do is just stick the card in the STB? $60 :eek:

Updated Comcast boston HD Lineup 08-03-07

Box ch ch name Tier needed to get channel
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
802 WGBH-HD (PBS HD ch) Basic
804 WBZ-HD (CBS) Basic
805 WCVB-HD (ABC) Basic
807 WHDH-HD (NBC) Basic
809 WMUR-HD (ABC) Basic
821 National Geo Starter
825 WFXT-HD (Fox) Basic
828 MHD Starter AND Classic
831 possible home of TBS-HD
832 HGTVHD Starter
833 TNT Classic
837 AnE Starter
838 WSBK-DT Basic
839 Discovery Home Theatre Classic
846 Universal HD Classic
848 Verses /Golf HD Starter
849 ESPN Classic
850 ESPN2 Starter
851 NESN Starter
852 possible home of Comcast North-HD
853 NFL Network Sports and Entertainment
854 FoodHD Starter
856 WLVI-HD (CW) Basic
868 Cinemax Cinemax
870 HBO HBO
875 Starz Starz
877 Showtime Showtime
881 Mojo Classic

I thought that all you have to do is just stick the card in the STB? $60 :eek:


Exactly...
I called them up this morning.
$60 was for 2 outlets to be installed(which i told them i didnt need the 1st time).. the rep had no clue.
I called up, explained the situation, and they dropped it to $13 after a LOT of convincing.

but yeah.. its pcmcia based i thought. cant really mess that up.
They are coming today to "install" the cards.

The reason they need to send the tech is not really for the installation, but for the "activation process". When they installed mine in a secondary TV, the tech spent about 45 minutes on hold with the home office trying to get it activated... and he had a special direct phone number! He said at the time that the wait was typical for the activation and that they waste everyone's time by understaffing the activation phone lines.

852 possible home of Comcast North-HD


Is that really what Comcast is going to call it?!?!?!

Hopefully it ends up as CSN New England/North East. CSN North makes me think of The Dakota's, Montana, Minnesota, etc.

If the DVR rates keep going up ( I have 2 of them ), I might have to go back to Cablecard because this is starting to get a tad too expensive.

Same here...I was trying to figure out how I could use one and just switch the output between my projector (basement) and LCD (1st floor), but what I really need is a 2x2 HDMI switcher (to also switch my HTPC) and those are still a little too expensive.

Exactly...
I called them up this morning.
$60 was for 2 outlets to be installed(which i told them i didnt need the 1st time).. the rep had no clue.
I called up, explained the situation, and they dropped it to $13 after a LOT of convincing.

but yeah.. its pcmcia based i thought. cant really mess that up.
They are coming today to "install" the cards.

Oh, so $60 is for the suckers and $13 is for the people who question their tactics. :rolleyes:

I can't wait for Verizon TV so we can get rid of this monopoly. :mad:

Oh, so $60 is for the suckers and $13 is for the people who question their tactics. :rolleyes:

I can't wait for Verizon TV so we can get rid of this monopoly. :mad:
And I understand that Verizon has a Multi-Room DVR (one DVR for up to 3 TV's). All they need is a bigger disk drive (or external drive capability).

Mickey

On comcast cable card installation to a tivohd, I wonder what would happen if you brought the whole tivo to the local office and asked them to put the cards in there. That way, they don't need to roll a truck to my house (and charge me 60.00, plus waiting around for them).

It is not feasible to drag your 50" plasma down to the office for the same, but the Tivo is small enough that it would be nice if they could accommodate that.

BUT, I know they won't.

On comcast cable card installation to a tivohd, I wonder what would happen if you brought the whole tivo to the local office and asked them to put the cards in there. That way, they don't need to roll a truck to my house (and charge me 60.00, plus waiting around for them).

It is not feasible to drag your 50" plasma down to the office for the same, but the Tivo is small enough that it would be nice if they could accommodate that.

BUT, I know they won't.

"The techs are all out on the road." Which, frankly, is probably true.

I got a letter from Comcast today saying effective Sept. 3 the price of the hd dvr is going to $12.95 from $9.95 !! They didn't even wait till the usual February price increase !!

-Ken

me too.

this is getting VERY old.

Too bad they won't just make the Tivo interface the default DVR interface for everyone. Comcast would clean house on that, not to mention the lower support costs since Tivo is much easier to use.

It is amazing how many people with power lack proper logic.

Hey there,
Thanks so much for putting this list together.


Updated Comcast boston HD Lineup 08-03-07

Box ch ch name Tier needed to get channel
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
802 WGBH-HD (PBS HD ch) Basic
804 WBZ-HD (CBS) Basic
805 WCVB-HD (ABC) Basic
807 WHDH-HD (NBC) Basic
809 WMUR-HD (ABC) Basic
821 National Geo Starter
825 WFXT-HD (Fox) Basic
828 MHD Starter AND Classic
831 possible home of TBS-HD
832 HGTVHD Starter
833 TNT Classic
837 AnE Starter
838 WSBK-DT Basic
839 Discovery Home Theatre Classic
846 Universal HD Classic
848 Verses /Golf HD Starter
849 ESPN Classic
850 ESPN2 Starter
851 NESN Starter
852 possible home of Comcast North-HD
853 NFL Network Sports and Entertainment
854 FoodHD Starter
856 WLVI-HD (CW) Basic
868 Cinemax Cinemax
870 HBO HBO
875 Starz Starz
877 Showtime Showtime
881 Mojo Classic

Too bad they won't just make the Tivo interface the default DVR interface for everyone. Comcast would clean house on that, not to mention the lower support costs since Tivo is much easier to use.

It is amazing how many people with power lack proper logic.

That is a good idea.

On comcast cable card installation to a tivohd, I wonder what would happen if you brought the whole tivo to the local office and asked them to put the cards in there. That way, they don't need to roll a truck to my house (and charge me 60.00, plus waiting around for them).

It is not feasible to drag your 50" plasma down to the office for the same, but the Tivo is small enough that it would be nice if they could accommodate that.

BUT, I know they won't.


What is this $60 install charge for a cable card to be installed?

Is that all your getting done or is there other work too?

Even though a cable card is a PCMCIA card, its not as simple as plug & play. There is more work that needs to be done on Comcast's end. I know you guys here may be able to provide Comcast the information needed, but the majority of people out there don't even know what a cable card is/does or even understand HD.

What is this $60 install charge for a cable card to be installed?

Is that all your getting done or is there other work too?

Even though a cable card is a PCMCIA card, its not as simple as plug & play. There is more work that needs to be done on Comcast's end. I know you guys here may be able to provide Comcast the information needed, but the majority of people out there don't even know what a cable card is/does or even understand HD.

I've never dealt with a cable card, but from what I've read and been told its the exact same process as a cable box from comcast. Hook it up, call the 800 number and have it activated.

Anyone else get the letter stating that Comcast is aligning their OnDemand content with what your level of service. For instance, since I don't expand to Expanded Basic, they are taking away all OnDemand content from MTV, Discovery, TBS, etc.

Last month they took away the NFL Network, now its OnDemand. I find it strange that my bill remains the same. Don't you think the price should go down?

The Comcast tech is coming out today for the 3rd time to "fix" the reception problem on some of my hi-def channels - it's rather obvious they have no idea what they're doing - any suggestions.

The channels break up especially on 851 (NESN) and 833 (TNT) with the new price increase I'm thinking perhaps it's time to move to the Dish - thoughts?

Thanks

Someone heard that Digital starter was now required for ANY on Demand content

The Comcast tech is coming out today for the 3rd time to "fix" the reception problem on some of my hi-def channels - it's rather obvious they have no idea what they're doing - any suggestions.

The channels break up especially on 851 (NESN) and 833 (TNT) with the new price increase I'm thinking perhaps it's time to move to the Dish - thoughts?

Thanks

It could be a number of things. My guess is old cabling or to many splitters on the line causing a weak signal. But you say this is their 3rd visit so I would think they have already ruled those 2 possibilities out. Have you tried swapping the box out? If not I would ask if they could do so. Good luck, I hope they get your problem solved.

Too bad they won't just make the Tivo interface the default DVR interface for everyone. Comcast would clean house on that, not to mention the lower support costs since Tivo is much easier to use.

It is amazing how many people with power lack proper logic.

Yeah I agree. But from what I was told from my local office is that it will be a choice if you want it or you can just keep the old interfaced boxes. Whether there will be an extra charge for the tivo software, that they didn't have an answer to. Maybe L Supreme can chime in with more info.

The first tech that came out attempted to look at the wiring but was unable to follow it because the room has since been refinished. The tech suggested rewiring but they charge $140 and they can't guarantee it will solve the problem. The box has been changed out twice.

The first tech that came out attempted to look at the wiring but was unable to follow it because the room has since been refinished. The tech suggested rewiring but they charge $140 and they can't guarantee it will solve the problem. The box has been changed out twice.

Sounds like they know it's the cabling and are leaving it up to you if you want to dish out the money and have it replaced. I would run the new cable myself, If you know someone handy ( Electrician) have them do it for you and it would be a lot cheaper. we are only talking one outlet here right? Your only other option would be to change providers and you should weigh all the pros and cons before doing so
IMO.

Is anyone having problems with Animal Planet (digital version) and a few channels around it? Every so often it is breaking up, sometimes to the point it freezes.

Yeah I agree. But from what I was told from my local office is that it will be a choice if you want it or you can just keep the old interfaced boxes. Whether there will be an extra charge for the tivo software, that they didn't have an answer to. Maybe L Supreme can chime in with more info.


Correct the current IPG will be the default version & if the TiVo IPG is wanted you'll be able to get it for an additional cost. From what I've seen, I don't think its much for what your getting.

I've never dealt with a cable card, but from what I've read and been told its the exact same process as a cable box from comcast. Hook it up, call the 800 number and have it activated.


The activation part is whats tricky, because the way the information is given & where its located varies from mfr to mfr so it not always easy to find.

Correct the current IPG will be the default version & if the TiVo IPG is wanted you'll be able to get it for an additional cost. From what I've seen, I don't think its much for what your getting.

Thanks L Supreme. So I gather you like it so far. Lucky dog :D

Someone heard that Digital starter was now required for ANY on Demand content

I did get a letter with my bill that arrived last week, and it informed me the On Demand programming would be realigned with service subscription levels. It referred me to this website to determine what my current subscription will allow me to view OnDemand:
http://comcast-ne.com/ondemandupdates/

I use CableCard, and since that doesn't allow me to access OnDemand content, I am not bothered by this change.

I did get a letter with my bill that arrived last week, and it informed me the On Demand programming would be realigned with service subscription levels. It referred me to this website to determine what my current subscription will allow me to view OnDemand:
http://comcast-ne.com/ondemandupdates/

I use CableCard, and since that doesn't allow me to access OnDemand content, I am not bothered by this change.

Here is a scan of my letter.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1170/1011749857_863fb9190d_b.jpg

It looks like there will STILL be some ONDemand content for those with JUST limited basic.

The first tech that came out attempted to look at the wiring but was unable to follow it because the room has since been refinished. The tech suggested rewiring but they charge $140 and they can't guarantee it will solve the problem. The box has been changed out twice.
I assume they checked the signal levels to see if they are too low or too high. Sometimes a low signal can be fixed with a signal booster which they can provide.

Mickey

I've read in this thread and on other sites that TBS-HD is being launched on 09/01. Has there been confirmation from Comcast, one way or the other, of their intentions to launch this channel; possibly on channel 831?

I've read in this thread and on other sites that TBS-HD is being launched on 09/01. Has there been confirmation from Comcast, one way or the other, of their intentions to launch this channel; possibly on channel 831?
Comcast usually doesn't announce their new HD channels until after they're launched.

New HD channels?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
819 CNBC
822 Toon Disney
823 The Science Channel
824 Disney Channel
826 ABC Family
830 FX
831 TBS
835 USA Network
840 Discovery
841 TLC
842 CNN
847 Weather Channel
855 Speed
857 Bravo
858 History Channel
860 Cartoon Network
862 SciFi Channel
863 Animal Planet
866 The Tennis Channel
869 MoreMax
871 HBO2-E
872 HBO Signature
873 HBO Family-E
878 ESPN News
879 The Movie Channel
882 HDNet
883 HDNet Movies
892 STARZ-Edge
893 STARZ-Kids
894 STARZ-Comedy

there are just a listing of upcoming Direct TVadds of channels Comcast mya carry and where they may be. This list in NO WAY represents upcoming comcast HD channels

Well looks like no NFL game on MOJO tonight, so you will definitely need the S&E package to get it now. Or we can all go over Chitchatjf's house to watch it since he has it. :D

New HD channels?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
819 CNBC
822 Toon Disney
823 The Science Channel
824 Disney Channel
826 ABC Family
830 FX
831 TBS
835 USA Network
840 Discovery
841 TLC
842 CNN
847 Weather Channel
855 Speed
857 Bravo
858 History Channel
860 Cartoon Network
862 SciFi Channel
863 Animal Planet
866 The Tennis Channel
869 MoreMax
871 HBO2-E
872 HBO Signature
873 HBO Family-E
878 ESPN News
879 The Movie Channel
882 HDNet
883 HDNet Movies
892 STARZ-Edge
893 STARZ-Kids
894 STARZ-Comedy

If we get five of those before years-end, I'll become the new lamb fry eating champion of the New England area...

And, HDNet and HDNet Movies count double...

Well looks like no NFL game on MOJO tonight, so you will definitely need the S&E package to get it now. Or we can all go over Chitchatjf's house to watch it since he has it. :D

17-0 Steelers at the half (hiding) :)

Chitchat, we get TBS-HD by 10/12007, The HBOs,CNN, and Weather Channel by12/1/2007, Ill be suprised and very happy. You have 35 new HD channels at 3Mhz per channel for HD. That is 105 Mhz of band width that needs to come from analogs being deleted. 105Mhz/6mhz per Analog channel = 17 analog channels to be deleted. Like to see it happen ,but it wont for several years.Only new tech advancement is if Comcast can load MPEG4 into Hd boxes out in the field.

The first tech that came out attempted to look at the wiring but was unable to follow it because the room has since been refinished. The tech suggested rewiring but they charge $140 and they can't guarantee it will solve the problem. The box has been changed out twice.
There's a service called "Service Protection Plan" or "Service Plus" Cost's I think $2/month. This service was originally designed to cover the cost of service calls which were related to customer equipment or non-Comcast issues. Would include rewiring where necessary. I recommend calling up and subscribing to the service, setup a tech call to your home and then using the service to its benefit. This way your wiring issues can be attended to at the $2/month rate. They would not do wall fishes so if a wire is to be replaced it would come through the wall or the floor and if on the wall it would wrap the house...unless maybe you provide milk and cookies.

According to the WCVB website, this Friday night's Patriot pre-season game will not be broadcast in HD on channel 5. Does anyone have different information on that?

Mickey

According to the WCVB website, this Friday night's Patriot pre-season game will not be broadcast in HD on channel 5. Does anyone have different information on that?

Mickey

www.titantv.com shows the same info you have. Thanks for posting this though, I didn't know they were on.

Chitchat, we get TBS-HD by 10/12007, The HBOs,CNN, and Weather Channel by12/1/2007, Ill be suprised and very happy. You have 35 new HD channels at 3Mhz per channel for HD. That is 105 Mhz of band width that needs to come from analogs being deleted. 105Mhz/6mhz per Analog channel = 17 analog channels to be deleted. Like to see it happen ,but it wont for several years.Only new tech advancement is if Comcast can load MPEG4 into Hd boxes out in the field.

They did it in Chicago. They can do it here.

Chitchatjf, Perhaps after they absorb the Adelphia systems in New England it might be possible. I would still predict a 2009 timeframe for it to happen. Between now and 2009 can hope for a few analogs to move to digital to free up bandwidth for more HD.Maybe Comcast might use 2/19/2009 analog OTA cutoff to market cable as either 100% digital or just "lifeline basic " in analog form.

Chitchat, we get TBS-HD by 10/12007, The HBOs,CNN, and Weather Channel by12/1/2007, Ill be suprised and very happy. You have 35 new HD channels at 3Mhz per channel for HD. That is 105 Mhz of band width that needs to come from analogs being deleted. 105Mhz/6mhz per Analog channel = 17 analog channels to be deleted. Like to see it happen ,but it wont for several years.Only new tech advancement is if Comcast can load MPEG4 into Hd boxes out in the field.

Are you familiar with what Comcast recently did in Chicago (eliminated 38 analog channels, the entire Extended Basic tier)?

http://multichannel.com/article/CA6432144.html

That's not to say that it will be happening here anytime soon. I remember reading something that said Comcast won't pull the switch in a region until digital-cable penetration reaches a certain percentage level (I can't find the link, but I think it was somewhere in the 70s), so as to minimize the disruption and complaints. No idea how close we are to that here (maybe L Supreme knows?).

www.titantv.com shows the same info you have. Thanks for posting this though, I didn't know they were on.

If it is an away game, chances are it might not be in HD. I know the 2 home pre-season games last year were in HD, It might be the same this year.

Are you familiar with what Comcast recently did in Chicago (eliminated 38 analog channels, the entire Extended Basic tier)?

http://multichannel.com/article/CA6432144.html

That's not to say that it will be happening here anytime soon. I remember reading something that said Comcast won't pull the switch in a region until digital-cable penetration reaches a certain percentage level (I can't find the link, but I think it was somewhere in the 70s), so as to minimize the disruption and complaints. No idea how close we are to that here (maybe L Supreme knows?).

Keep in mind that sometime after 2008, probably 2009 or 2010 around here, Comcast will be rolling out their DOCSIS 3.0 gear. This would be an opportune time to get everyone on the same page, and consolidate some outstanding service issues (analogs, high speed internet, HDTV offerings, etc).

Neighbor's OnDemand now show up here on QAM 80 and over and 90 and over. I rarely ever catch them watching an HD show though, and when I do it's usually a freebie. I wonder if they'll ever find a way of blocking that?

Speaking of the Patriots, will non-subscribers to the "Sports & Entertainment" package be able to see the Dec 29 Game on some other channel???? If not, then I gotta guess Comcast will have a lot of angry customers on the 29th and probably a bunch that sign up for 1 day of "NFL Network"!!!!!!!!!

THanks for any info....

Hectar R.

Channel 5 usually will broadcast the game anyway if it is a cable game, so I would assume that it will be on 5. I can't remember if it was in HD or SD.

Speaking of the Patriots, will non-subscribers to the "Sports & Entertainment" package be able to see the Dec 29 Game on some other channel???? If not, then I gotta guess Comcast will have a lot of angry customers on the 29th and probably a bunch that sign up for 1 day of "NFL Network"!!!!!!!!!

THanks for any info....

Hectar R.
Good reason to visit your neighbor or relative that day who has DirectTV

Speaking of the Patriots, will non-subscribers to the "Sports & Entertainment" package be able to see the Dec 29 Game on some other channel???? If not, then I gotta guess Comcast will have a lot of angry customers on the 29th and probably a bunch that sign up for 1 day of "NFL Network"!!!!!!!!!

THanks for any info....

Hectar R.
That is a very good question. The Patriots website only lists NFL Network for that game while the Pats games to be broadcast on ESPN list both ESPN and Channel 5. I guess I will have to listen to that one on WBCN radio.

Mickey

Neighbor's OnDemand now show up here on QAM 80 and over and 90 and over. I rarely ever catch them watching an HD show though, and when I do it's usually a freebie. I wonder if they'll ever find a way of blocking that?

We get OnDemand on QAM 80,81,90 and 91. Does anyone know how many boxes are considered to be in a node ? Someone in my neighborhood/node is a big old time WWF fan.

That is a very good question. The Patriots website only lists NFL Network for that game while the Pats games to be broadcast on ESPN list both ESPN and Channel 5. I guess I will have to listen to that one on WBCN radio.

Mickey

A channel has not yet been finialzed. There WILL be one and they will use 853 for the HD channel. :)

I would pick 38 myself.

A channel has not yet been finialzed. There WILL be one and they will use 853 for the HD channel. :)

I would pick 38 myself.
It looks like you are answering a question that wasn't asked.

I just received some feedback from Channel 5 which indicates that they will in fact broadcast the December 29th game.

Mickey

A channel has not yet been finialzed. There WILL be one and they will use 853 for the HD channel. :)

I would pick 38 myself.

so we'll get that game in SD?

I believe it will be HD :)

Does anyone know if Boston-area Comcast will provide M-Cards (multi-stream CableCARDs) or just the old single-stream Cablecards? I have heard that the low-end TiVo HD DVR support M-Cards and with this you only need 1 card to get dual tuner support.

Thanks,

-Argus

Does anyone know if Boston-area Comcast will provide M-Cards (multi-stream CableCARDs) or just the old single-stream Cablecards? I have heard that the low-end TiVo HD DVR support M-Cards and with this you only need 1 card to get dual tuner support.

Thanks,

-Argus

Considering the first card is free and each additional card is like $5 or something, I doubt it, and if they do they'll probably charge you $12.99 for it (since thats what they charge for the DVR "service").

I am in Nashua, NH and picked up the Tivo HD last night. This morning I returned the moto box and requested an install for the cablecard(s). I was informed that they will be cable cards and not multi stream 'm' cards. The knowledgeable person I spoke to could not even guess when they might get them.

By the way, the first card monthly cost is to be free, the second 2.75/month.

My Series3 TiVo told me over the weekend that channel 853, NFLHD, was added to the lineup but although it's in the guide, I'm only seeing a gray screen. Is it showing up for anyone else, either in the channel list at all or with actual content? Is it something to do with the cablecards and TiVo combo?

My Series3 TiVo told me over the weekend that channel 853, NFLHD, was added to the lineup but although it's in the guide, I'm only seeing a gray screen. Is it showing up for anyone else, either in the channel list at all or with actual content? Is it something to do with the cablecards and TiVo combo?

NFLHD is subscription now. Or at least another level of service. Do you subscribe to it?

NFLHD is subscription now. Or at least another level of service. Do you subscribe to it?

Ah. That would explain it. I don't know that our subscription covers it. I'll have to check. Thanks.

My Series3 TiVo told me over the weekend that channel 853, NFLHD, was added to the lineup but although it's in the guide, I'm only seeing a gray screen...
And you will continue to get that gray screen until Comcast gets a visit from “Mr. Green”. Even if you have the Triple PAY package (for example), you might still need to “upgrade” to the Sports and Entertainment Tier for an extra $7.95/month.

Mickey

I am somewhat put off by all the tiering that comcast does with a lot of their packages. I am a big soccer fan and wanted FSC and Gol TV, which are both in the S&E pack. NFL network is included in this as well. If you really want to try it, try giving them a call. I was able to get a promotion they are running for the S&E pack; $4.95 for 3 months, then it goes back to the regular price. If I like it enough I'll probably keep it.

Apologies if this has been asked before (I couldn't find it), but what's the deal with Digital Starter? My neighbor is signing up for Digital with HD, and they're telling him that he needs Digital Classic for anything other than the broadcast networks in HD.

chitchatjf's chart above says that Digital Starter will get you the broadcasts AND several other HD nets - including NESNHD. Do you have to ask specifically for Starter? And what's the cost vs. Classic?

Thanks much, everyone!

Digital Starter is basically Standard cable with the box.

Classic is $7.95 and can be purchased withOUT extended basic.

Okay, so (not to beat this to death), if they have (and like) expanded basic, and just want to add enough HD to get NESNHD, is Digital Classic what they want? Would asking for Digital Starter mean they would be cutting their Expanded Basic lineup back to Basic?

(why is this so confusing?)

then you just get the HD Box.

Okay, so (not to beat this to death), if they have (and like) expanded basic, and just want to add enough HD to get NESNHD, is Digital Classic what they want? Would asking for Digital Starter mean they would be cutting their Expanded Basic lineup back to Basic?

(why is this so confusing?)
This also confuses me and others, I suspect. Cynical people, such as myself, believe the confusion is intentional and allows Comcast to take advantage of people by making it easy to over-subscribe. In addition, some people have grand-fathered packages (as I do) which do not align with current offerings, adding to the confusion.

Mickey

Okay, so (not to beat this to death), if they have (and like) expanded basic, and just want to add enough HD to get NESNHD, is Digital Classic what they want? Would asking for Digital Starter mean they would be cutting their Expanded Basic lineup back to Basic?

(why is this so confusing?)


If they want only add just NESN HD without losing any of their current programming, then they will need to get a HD box, thus putting them in to Digital Starter.

Digital Starter = Basic + Expanded + a box (Digital, HD or DVR)

Hope this helps.

If they want only add just NESN HD without losing any of their current programming, then they will need to get a HD box, thus putting them in to Digital Starter.

Digital Starter = Basic + Expanded + a box (Digital, HD or DVR)

Hope this helps.

What if I have CableCard cabability? What is the minimum I would need to get NESNHD?

What if I have CableCard cabability? What is the minimum I would need to get NESNHD?

Ditto. I've got a TiVo Series3 with CableCARDs, so I don't need a box from Comcast.

An additional question from me : does the inclusion of HBO have any impact on which package(s) I would need to subscribe to ?

What if I have CableCard cabability? What is the minimum I would need to get NESNHD?

Ditto. I've got a TiVo Series3 with CableCARDs, so I don't need a box from Comcast.

An additional question from me : does the inclusion of HBO have any impact on which package(s) I would need to subscribe to ?



1. If you had a cable card, just Standard cable + the cable card = NESN HD

2. If you wanted HBO, you have 2 options to
a) You can get HBO ala carte for $19.95, but you get no other additional channels beside HBO or

b) Digital Starter + Digital Preferred with HBO (HBO HD included) $27.45 & get all the HD except for NFL HD & the Premium HD channels.


Anything else?

1. If you had a cable card, just Standard cable + the cable card = NESN HD

2. If you wanted HBO, you have 2 options to
a) You can get HBO ala carte for $19.95, but you get no other additional channels beside HBO or

b) Digital Starter + Digital Preferred with HBO $27.45 & get all the HD except for NFL HD & the Premium HD channels.


Anything else?

I would hope they get HBO-HD with b. :)

I would hope they get HBO-HD with b. :)


fixed it. better? :p

Is the ONLY thing on NFL HD that is actually HD the game?

I thought Total Access would be but it isn't.

Is the ONLY thing on NFL HD that is actually HD the game?

I thought Total Access would be but it isn't.

I thought I caught one or two commercials in 1080i... :D

Is the ONLY thing on NFL HD that is actually HD the game?

I thought Total Access would be but it isn't.

They have a Superbowl Series that is HD. The Hall of Fame inductions were in HD, and the entire week between the Conference Championship games was HD. Its expanding, little by little. Appears that no studio shows are/will be HD this season.

fixed it. better? :p

TY! :)

any word on Tivo interface? I had heard it wouldn't be til November and one could not just have it downloaded.

TY! :)

any word on Tivo interface? I had heard it wouldn't be til November and one could not just have it downloaded.


It will be before November & it will be downloadable. That's all I'll say. :D

It will be before November & it will be downloadable. That's all I'll say. :DRiiight. And the year after that, and the year after that...

In the meantime I still can't get me a 3416.:(

Hi All, What setting is everyone using for the Comcast STB and there plasma tv. I know you can change it from 720P or 1080i .

Thanks...

Hi All, What setting is everyone using for the Comcast STB and there plasma tv. I know you can change it from 720P or 1080i .

Thanks...

Set it to what ever the native resolution of your TV. Plasma tvs are available in both 720p and 1080i/p

I have a DLP and set it to 720p to keep the progressive scan resolution. However, I believe it very difficult to discern any difference whether it is 720p or 1080i. So I guess whatever your eyes tell you looks the best.

What is my most cost effective way to obtain ALL the HD stations? Do I need basic as well as digital starter and dig classic?? Getting different opinons.

What do you mean by "ALL"? In order to get HBO HD, then you need to have HBO as part of your subscription, for example.

no movie channels. but all others!

no movie channels. but all others!

Digital Starter, Digital Classic & Sports Entertainment Pack (for NFL HD). It'll run you about $60 - $70 a month for that & 1 HD box.

The point is that you need to subscribe to the tier associated with the channel you want. So, for example, TNT requires Standard Cable, so TNT HD also requires Standard Cable along with Digital Starter (at a minimum). Similarly, NFL requires the Sports tier, so NFL HD requires the Sports tier.

If they want only add just NESN HD without losing any of their current programming, then they will need to get a HD box, thus putting them in to Digital Starter.

Digital Starter = Basic + Expanded + a box (Digital, HD or DVR)

Hope this helps.

Thanks for the clear answer, LSupreme... now I understand it. :)

Updated Comcast boston HD Lineup 08-03-07

Box ch ch name Tier needed to get channel
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
802 WGBH-HD (PBS HD ch) Basic
804 WBZ-HD (CBS) Basic
805 WCVB-HD (ABC) Basic
807 WHDH-HD (NBC) Basic
809 WMUR-HD (ABC) Basic
821 National Geo Starter
825 WFXT-HD (Fox) Basic
828 MHD Starter AND Classic
831 possible home of TBS-HD
832 HGTVHD Starter
833 TNT Classic
837 AnE Starter
838 WSBK-DT Basic
839 Discovery Home Theatre Classic
846 Universal HD Classic
848 Verses /Golf HD Starter
849 ESPN Classic
850 ESPN2 Starter
851 NESN Starter
852 possible home of Comcast North-HD
853 NFL Network Sports and Entertainment
854 FoodHD Starter
856 WLVI-HD (CW) Basic
868 Cinemax Cinemax
870 HBO HBO
875 Starz Starz
877 Showtime Showtime
881 Mojo Classic
So for channels 802-856 I will need Basic+Digital starter+classic. Comcast is telling me that Digital starter does not include basic and need to pay an additional $12.00 for basic?? Sorry still confused.

So for channels 802-856 I will need Basic+Digital starter+classic. Comcast is telling me that Digital starter does not include basic and need to pay an additional $12.00 for basic?? Sorry still confused.

Basic is included in Digital Starter. If you hear otherwise, please ask for their 3 letter user ID & pm me with it. Thanks

The point is that you need to subscribe to the tier associated with the channel you want. So, for example, TNT requires Standard Cable, so TNT HD also requires Standard Cable along with Digital Starter (at a minimum). Similarly, NFL requires the Sports tier, so NFL HD requires the Sports tier.

I remember getting TNT-HD and ESPN-HD for a whole YEAR withOUT havving to get extended basic. :)

I remember getting TNT-HD and ESPN-HD for a whole YEAR withOUT havving to get extended basic. :)


Correct, for TNT-HD, ESPN-HD, Mojo, Universal HD, Discovery Theater-HD the requirement is Basic & Digital Classic.

Hi All, What setting is everyone using for the Comcast STB and there plasma tv. I know you can change it from 720P or 1080i .

Thanks...

Ideally you'd set it to be the same as the source, i.e. 720p for ESPNHD, 1080i for CBSHD. But that gets to be a PITA, so I try both and see which looks better to you. Would be nice if they'd update the firmware to allow a "pass through" mode.

After watching Verizon dig up my street to run fiber and being frustrated with the latest DVR price increase and the Sports and Entertainment tier silliness from Comcast I compared the 2 services.

I get the NFL Network plus HDNet on FIOS (plus all the Comcast stuf) for the same price as Comcast except I save $27/month for year 1 (I'm including the $4/month DVR increase and the $8/month Sports pack on top of DVR and Digital Starter) and about $12/month for year 2 for phone, internet, and TV. Besides losing my 10 year old comcast email address this seems like a no brainer. Sure I lose Versus but watching hockey on that network is just too depressing for some reason...

Somebody, however, said that the triple play package from Comcast is a 1 year contract that I'm locked into. I don't recall signing anything about that - just that they committed to the monthly cost for 1 year and after that they could raise prices at will. Did I miss something?

Somebody, however, said that the triple play package from Comcast is a 1 year contract that I'm locked into. I don't recall signing anything about that - just that they committed to the monthly cost for 1 year and after that they could raise prices at will. Did I miss something?


Nope, its not a contract.

Comcast has got to do something to make their pricing and packages easier to understand. Am I the only one who thinks their current offering is a confusing mess akin to nuclear rocket science?

I thought their whole goal was to confuse the crap out of everyone so they'd end up buying more than they want.

I thought their whole goal was to confuse the crap out of everyone so they'd end up buying more than they want.

What he said.

I would have to agree with toots, when I went to the Fall River office to get my HD DVR box they told me I had to signup for a digital package to receive NESN. I can't believe we have to pay more for 4 additional HD channels. If you receive them in your extended basic package you should get the ones in HD also that is BS !!!!!

I have been experimenting with the STB setting 720P or 1080i. I think the 1080i setting looks a little sharper. Plus a lot of the channels are in 1080i and I think they look better JMO.

I would have to agree with toots, when I went to the Fall River office to get my HD DVR box they told me I had to signup for a digital package to receive NESN. I can't believe we have to pay more for 4 additional HD channels. If you receive them in your extended basic package you should get the ones in HD also that is BS !!!!!

I have been experimenting with the STB setting 720P or 1080i. I think the 1080i setting looks a little sharper. Plus a lot of the channels are in 1080i and I think they look better JMO.

Digital starter is a package :)

It includes standard cable plus the box. Movieplex (ch 200) and Musicchoice (Ch 5XX) is also included.

Chitchat, When I called Comcast they told me I would just need the HD box to receive NESN HD because I had the extended basic. The people at the office didn't know the answer, but were trying to tell me I needed to buy Digital Classic to get NESN HD. I forgot about Movieplex !!

I currently subscribe to the digital preferred with S&E pack. I have one HD box on main TV. Now I recently hooked up a second TV(SD only) with the regular digital receiver(radar detector look alike), and channels in the S&E pack are not available. Now I am assuming that my programming comes from the signal coming into my home(coax) and not the box. Could it be an issue with the receiver itself? The other TV is fine regarding S&E pack.

I currently subscribe to the digital preferred with S&E pack. I have one HD box on main TV. Now I recently hooked up a second TV(SD only) with the regular digital receiver(radar detector look alike), and channels in the S&E pack are not available. Now I am assuming that my programming comes from the signal coming into my home(coax) and not the box. Could it be an issue with the receiver itself? The other TV is fine regarding S&E pack.

Cal CS and have them hit the SD box, it just needs to have the correct codes and S&E will show up.

I had this same issue when I added/replaced boxes in my house. 5 mins phone call, however, check your HD box before you get off the phone and make sure nothing is screwy. One time i had my hd box hit and my sd box stopped working until it was hit separately.

when are 3rd party set top boxes/DVR hitting the streets???

will they carry a monthly fee?

when are 3rd party set top boxes/DVR hitting the streets???

will they carry a monthly fee?

They've been here for awhile. S3 TiVo & Sony has had a DVR out for a couple of years now.

so what really changed with this July ruling?

And isn't the Sony one a DVD recorder?

So what really changed with this July ruling?

The July 2007 deadline required the cableco's to eat their own dogfood. Any new set top box that they purchased had to have non-integrated security. (They could still re-use any boxes they still had on hand which still had integrated security.) For the present time, this means that the new boxes the cableco's are supplying to consumers have CableCARDs in them.

Big picture-wise : it's an attempt by the FCC to get the cableco's off their duffs and support CableCARD in earnest, not just lip-service accompanied by a lot of griping and foot-dragging. The intent is to promote competition in the set top box arena, so that companies like TiVo and Sony can provide users alternatives to the vanilla STB's that they could rent from their cableco.

thanks for clearing that up!

anyone know what Sony charges for a monthly fee?

I can't seem to find that anywhere.

thanks for clearing that up!

anyone know what Sony charges for a monthly fee?

I can't seem to find that anywhere.

The Sony CableCard DVRs are no longer in production and the company doesn't seem to have a replacement on the horizon, although rumors of an enhanced Playstation 3 are going around.
The old devices use the free TV Guide On Screen guide, so there is no monthly fee like there is with Tivo.
FYI, here is the thread dedicated to the Sony DHG-HDD250 and DHG-HDD500 HD DVRs:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=537711

Cal CS and have them hit the SD box, it just needs to have the correct codes and S&E will show up.

I had this same issue when I added/replaced boxes in my house. 5 mins phone call, however, check your HD box before you get off the phone and make sure nothing is screwy. One time i had my hd box hit and my sd box stopped working until it was hit separately.


Thanks a lot , I called CS and actually just followed the automated prompts to send "refresh" signal to my STB's. It worked. Thanks, I appreciate it.

Comcast has got to do something to make their pricing and packages easier to understand. Am I the only one who thinks their current offering is a confusing mess akin to nuclear rocket science?There is no reason to think that making pricing and packages easier to understand will be beneficial. Simplification invariably results in having fewer choices, and fewer choices generally results in more customers paying more than they would have otherwise.

There is no reason to think that making pricing and packages easier to understand will be beneficial. Simplification invariably results in having fewer choices, and fewer choices generally results in more customers paying more than they would have otherwise.

I cannot understand your logic bicker1. "Easier to understand" DOES NOT mean "fewer choices." In my opinion making the pricing packages easier to understand would be beneficial not just to customers but also to Comcast. I think that confusing customers is not a good business practice in the long run.

I disagree with you. That's why I posted that message. I think you're only looking at it from a critical perspective and not thinking about it from the standpoint of the alternative, so to clarify whether that is the case, please answer the following inquiry:

Describe would you do to pricing subject to the following requirements:
(1) Ensure pricing remains absolutely revenue neutral, and
(2) Make pricing "easier to understand".

Now I have a good reason to switch to D*, they will be airing High School Musical 2 in HD when they launch Disney HD in "early 2008" :) When is Comcast scheduled to get Disney HD ?

Now I have a good reason to switch to D*, they will be airing High School Musical 2 in HD when they launch Disney HD in "early 2008" :) When is Comcast scheduled to get Disney HD ?

D* will be airing HSM2 in HD on 8/24 on "The 101"

I cannot understand your logic bicker1. "Easier to understand" DOES NOT mean "fewer choices." In my opinion making the pricing packages easier to understand would be beneficial not just to customers but also to Comcast. I think that confusing customers is not a good business practice in the long run.

Lemme give you a hand, here... Try to understand, bicker1 is a Comcast booster/apologist of epic proportions. In his mind, anything that impedes Comcast's ability to pursue its business goals and profits (be it the government, or stupid consumers) is inherently evil. Once you understand that, things will become clear(er).

So, to you and me, being provided a more comprehensible set of programming choices would seem to make purchasing decisions easier, and also aid the CSR's who are trying to aid customers in making those decisions. To bicker1, that's just external interference from outside parties that artificially impede Comcast's business and their ability to generate profits.

There, better ? :)

Lemme give you a hand, here... Try to understand, bicker1 is a Comcast booster/apologist of epic proportions. In his mind, anything that impedes Comcast's ability to pursue its business goals and profits (be it the government, or stupid consumers) is inherently evil. Once you understand that, things will become clear(er).

So, to you and me, being provided a more comprehensible set of programming choices would seem to make purchasing decisions easier, and also aid the CSR's who are trying to aid customers in making those decisions. To bicker1, that's just external interference from outside parties that artificially impede Comcast's business and their ability to generate profits.

There, better ? :)
Now that was clear. Maybe you should go work for Comcast.

Mickey

It will be before November & it will be downloadable. That's all I'll say. :DInteresting. The new Tivo Series 3 HD boxes are out and about too. From what I've read new "Comcast Tivo" may not be as feature rich - maybe hardware limitations, don't know. I've been waiting for the Tivo offering but I may forego having to use the 6412 hardware and go with the newer Tivo. Just need cable cards (or just one if there are M-cards offered).

larry

... a more comprehensible set of programming choices ...

Please describe what you think these "choices" should be and give examples and costs to the customer.

Please describe what you think these "choices" should be and give examples and costs to the customer.

I'm sure Paul Simoneau will answer but let me comment as well.

From the consumer point of view the easiest to understand would be just a la carte option - you select only the channels you want. I don't care about 90% or more of channels that I am getting, and I pay ~$126/month for digital premier+sports entertainment pack+DVR/HDTV. I can't imagine that the cost to the customer for 10% of those channels would not be somewhat lower than what I am paying now.

Please describe what you think these "choices" should be and give examples and costs to the customer.

all SD channels : $1/month
all SD + HD channels : $2/month
all SD + HD + HBO : $3/month

There. Ask a stupid question, get a stupid answer.



I truly don't have an issue with their base set of packages. Essentially, it boils down to analog, analog + some digitals, analog + all digitals. Add in premiere programming (HBO and such) to taste a la carte. That's not the confusing part. Where they start to confuse the crap out of people is the incomprehensible dependencies they place on programming, that seemingly have absolutely no relation to each other. Receiving the HD variant of a channel you already receive the SD variant of should require no additional cost or package alteration (see:ESPN-HD, ESPN2-HD, NESN-HD, etc).

There are many reasons that they don't provide 100% a la carte programming options, and I can see that. It'd be an accounting nightmare for them, and they'd be forced to re-work all of their programming deals with their content providers.

I receive about 100+ channels of crap that I never watch. I know that the cable-co/content-co deals often work in bundles, where you've gotta take the good (A&E, Bravo, Discovery) with the bad (Lifetime, Hallmark, Oxygen). It just sucks that I've gotta pay for crap that I never watch. There's gotta be another way...

all SD channels : $1/month
all SD + HD channels : $2/month
all SD + HD + HBO : $3/month

There. Ask a stupid question, get a stupid answer.

Now, Now. There is no need to get snippy. I was trying to find out what you felt was "comprehensible".

I truly don't have an issue with their base set of packages. Essentially, it boils down to analog, analog + some digitals, analog + all digitals. Add in premiere programming (HBO and such) to taste a la carte. That's not the confusing part. Where they start to confuse the crap out of people is the incomprehensible dependencies they place on programming, that seemingly have absolutely no relation to each other. Receiving the HD variant of a channel you already receive the SD variant of should require no additional cost or package alteration (see:ESPN-HD, ESPN2-HD, NESN-HD, etc).

There are many reasons that they don't provide 100% a la carte programming options, and I can see that. It'd be an accounting nightmare for them, and they'd be forced to re-work all of their programming deals with their content providers.

I receive about 100+ channels of crap that I never watch. I know that the cable-co/content-co deals often work in bundles, where you've gotta take the good (A&E, Bravo, Discovery) with the bad (Lifetime, Hallmark, Oxygen). It just sucks that I've gotta pay for crap that I never watch. There's gotta be another way...

Now if you had said this in the first place I wouldn't have even posted! I totally agree with you on the matter of paying for channels I never watch.

Ok, Here's another pricing suggestion that is more content-neutral and easier to understand, and could even be made to be revenue-neutral if that is a necessary goal:

Set up, say, three price categories for channels: Bargain, Regular, and Prime. The category that any particular individual channel would belong to would be calculated based on the demand for it as well as what Comcast pays for it. Then offer packages based simply on the number of channels in each category that someone can have. The Basic package that would be required for all subscribers, for example, might be 10 channels that are 7 Regular channels plus 3 Bargain channels. Or it might be 20 channels that are 10 Bargain channels + 9 Regular Channels + 1 Prime channel. Comcast could set the price and categories of this Basic package to meet its financial requirements. They could then set a different fixed price-per-additional-channel for each category. They could also then offer add-on packages as desired. These packages would just be numbers of channels added to the basic package, with some kind of discount from the per-channel price of the package. One add-on, for example, might be a "Bargain Basement" package that is 40 additional Bargain channels for a certain price. Or there might be a "Power Prime" package that is any 15 Prime channels. Or there might be a "Double Your Pleasure" package that is twice the number of channels in the basic package. And so on. Maybe there would need to be additional categories too, like Super-Prime for really expensive channels or Rare Interest for things like foreign-language channels.

Interestingly, this is the direction that many arts organizations are taking, with make-your-own subscription packages that let you choose, say, 5 concerts for a discounted price.

At the very least, this would truly let the free-market come into play into the pricing of the channels....

Ok, Here's another pricing suggestion that is more content-neutral and easier to understand, and could even be made to be revenue-neutral if that is a necessary goal:

Set up, say, three price categories for channels: Bargain, Regular, and Prime. The category that any particular individual channel would belong to would be calculated based on the demand for it as well as what Comcast pays for it. Then offer packages based simply on the number of channels in each category that someone can have. The Basic package that would be required for all subscribers, for example, might be 10 channels that are 7 Regular channels plus 3 Bargain channels. Or it might be 20 channels that are 10 Bargain channels + 9 Regular Channels + 1 Prime channel. Comcast could set the price and categories of this Basic package to meet its financial requirements. They could then set a different fixed price-per-additional-channel for each category. They could also then offer add-on packages as desired. These packages would just be numbers of channels added to the basic package, with some kind of discount from the per-channel price of the package. One add-on, for example, might be a "Bargain Basement" package that is 40 additional Bargain channels for a certain price. Or there might be a "Power Prime" package that is any 15 Prime channels. Or there might be a "Double Your Pleasure" package that is twice the number of channels in the basic package. And so on. Maybe there would need to be additional categories too, like Super-Prime for really expensive channels or Rare Interest for things like foreign-language channels.

Interestingly, this is the direction that many arts organizations are taking, with make-your-own subscription packages that let you choose, say, 5 concerts for a discounted price.

At the very least, this would truly let the free-market come into play into the pricing of the channels....

It's ridiculous to believe that Comcast would take any of the suggestions that get bandied about on these forums. I'm sure they've spent ooooooodles of time computing the best methods of monetary extraction, and that's probably pretty close to where we sit right now.

Regarding your point, it'd make things even worse. At least Comcast's packages remain somewhat constant from year to year. Under your scenario, the packages would change yearly, forcing consumers to make yearly packaging decisions/commitments. A channel's popularity will inevitably rise and fall, based upon the quality of their programming and the whim of their audience. It'd be a programming, bookkeeping and scheduling nightmare for all concerned to go with what you've laid out above...

Try to understand, bicker1 is a Comcast booster/apologist of epic proportions. I'm no more apologist than you are an idiot. I'm a realist, and a capitalist. That upsets you. Sorry about that. Get over it.

It'd be a programming, bookkeeping and scheduling nightmare for all concerned to go with what you've laid out above...I agree. I think a la carte would look more like this: (Based on typical costs in Massachusetts -- cable may cost more in your area than in Massachusetts.)

Lifeline cable (local broadcast channels and government public access channels): $10 per month

Added onto Lifeline cable:
- Each additional cable channel: $4 per month per channel; or
- All basic/extended cable channels (package): $50 per month; or
- All basic/extended and digital cable channels: $65 per month.

Additional fees for STBs, DVRs, CableCards, Remote Control, taxes and fees.

FWIW, if Comcast ever announces that they're switching to a la carte pricing, I'm immediately buying all the Comcast stock I can get my hands on.

If they went strictly ala carte,here is what MY dream lineup could be like based on current selections :
============================================================ ========
Note: a) I included all local channels except Spanish and shopping channels
b) I included all channels in multiplex services
c) in case of HD simucasts,the SD channel is dropped (What do we need it for? :)

1 ALL on Demand
2 WGBH Boston (PBS)
3 WGBH HD (PBS HD Channel)
4 WBZ-DT Boston (CBS-HD)
5 WCVB-DT Boston (ABC-HD)
6 NECN
7 WHDH-DT Boston (NBC-HD)
8 CN8
9 WMUR-DT Manchester (ABC-HD)
10 NBC Weather Plus (WHDH-DT2)
11 WENH Durham (PBS)
12 The Weather Channel
13 Weatherscan
14 HBO HD
15 HBO 2
16 HBO Signature
17 HBO Family
18 HBO Comedy
19 HBO Zone
20 Public Access
21 Educational Access
22 Government Access
23 Movieplex
24 Fox News Channel
25 WFXT-DT Boston (Fox-HD)
26 Cinemax HD
27 Moremax
28 Actionmax
29 Thrillermax
30 TNT HD
31 Starz HD
32 Starz Edge
33 Starz in Black
34 Starz kidz and Family
35 Starz cinema
36 Encore
37 Starz Comedy
38 WSBK-DT Boston
39 Discovery HD Theatre
40 Cspan
41 Cspan 2
42 Comedy Central
43 SciFi channel
44 WGBX Boston (PBS) (GBH-44)
45 The N (OK I watch Degrassi: Note this channel will be on 224 Dec 31st)
46 Universal HD
47 Versus /Golf HD
48 WYDN Worcester (Relig) (48)
49 ESPN HD
50 My TV = Ch 50
51 NESN HD
52 Fox Sports NE
53 NFL Network HD
54 ESPN 2 HD
55 the Tube music network (WLVI-DT2)
56 WLVI-DT Boston (CW-HD)
57 Sundance Channel
58 Indieplex
59 IFC- Independent Film channel
60 VH1 Classic
61 Showtime HD
62 Sho Too
63 Showcase
64 Showtime EXtreme
65 Showtime Beyond
66 ESPNews
67 Flix
68 WBPX Boston (i) (68)

If they went strictly ala carte,here is what MY dream lineup could be like based on current selections :
============================================================ ========
Note: a) I included all local channels except Spanish and shopping channels
b) I included all channels in multiplex services
c) in case of HD simucasts,the SD channel is dropped (What do we need it for? :)

1 ALL on Demand
2 WGBH Boston (PBS)
3 WGBH HD (PBS HD Channel)
4 WBZ-DT Boston (CBS-HD)
5 WCVB-DT Boston (ABC-HD)
6 NECN
7 WHDH-DT Boston (NBC-HD)
8 CN8
9 WMUR-DT Manchester (ABC-HD)
10 NBC Weather Plus (WHDH-DT2)
11 WENH Durham (PBS)
12 The Weather Channel
13 Weatherscan
14 HBO HD
15 HBO 2
16 HBO Signature
17 HBO Family
18 HBO Comedy
19 HBO Zone
20 Public Access
21 Educational Access
22 Government Access
23 Movieplex
24 Fox News Channel
25 WFXT-DT Boston (Fox-HD)
26 Cinemax HD
27 Moremax
28 Actionmax
29 Thrillermax
30 TNT HD
31 Starz HD
32 Starz Edge
33 Starz in Black
34 Starz kidz and Family
35 Starz cinema
36 Encore
37 Starz Comedy
38 WSBK-DT Boston
39 Discovery HD Theatre
40 Cspan
41 Cspan 2
42 Comedy Central
43 SciFi channel
44 WGBX Boston (PBS) (GBH-44)
45 The N (OK I watch Degrassi: Note this channel will be on 224 Dec 31st)
46 Universal HD
47 Versus /Golf HD
48 WYDN Worcester (Relig) (48)
49 ESPN SD
50 My TV = Ch 50
51 NESN HD
52 Fox Sports NE
53 NFL Network HD
54 ESPN 2 HD
55 TMC
56 WLVI-DT Boston (CW-HD)
57 the Tube music network (WLVI-DT2)
57 Sundance Channel
58 Indieplex
59 IFC- Independent Film channel
60 VH1 Classic
61 Showtime HD
62 Sho Too
63 Showcase
64 Showtime EXtreme
65 Showtime Beyond
66 TMC Xtra
67 Flix
68 WBPX Boston (i) (68)

chitchatjf,
Thats a nice lineup, I agree with most of that, but I am a huge soccer(futbol) fan so I would have to throw FSC and GOL tv in with yours.
If there were a la carte pricing I would absolutely consider it. As Paul mentioned, I dont like paying for a bunch of channels I never watch.
Also, even with some of the "extra packages"(i.e. S&E pack), some of the offerings in these groups just don't make sense. While there are a few popular channels, I'd say 85-90% of the other channels in this package are irrelevant(to most others, me included). Here is where a la carte would make sense. If I wanted NFL net, FSC, and Goltv. Let me only pay for those and I am guessing it would be less expensive than $7.95/month(package cost).

If I could only get all the HD channels and nothing else I would be one happy camper. But that option will never be realized since more and more stations are going Hi Def which would leave less sources for Comcast to make money.

If you're close enough, you can pull in the local channels in HD with an antenna. I hear that reception is great. For some people, the local line-up is adequate.

If you're close enough, you can pull in the local channels in HD with an antenna. I hear that reception is great. For some people, the local line-up is adequate.

Yes, the reception is great (I am ~5 miles from the transmission towers). I was getting my local HD channels that way when I was a Voom customer (RIP). However, the local HD channels via cable cost you nothing if you already have any package with Comcast. Unless I am missing something.

Sorry if this has been answered before, but I'm a newbie on here. How do you change the Motorola DVR box to output at 720p? It's connected to my plasma by HDMI...

Yes, the reception is great (I am ~5 miles from the transmission towers). I was getting my local HD channels that way when I was a Voom customer (RIP). However, the local HD channels via cable cost you nothing if you already have any package with Comcast. Unless I am missing something.

My point was that some people might be happy just to get great HD reception - and programming - on the local broadcast networks free -- no need for Comcast at all! Most, if not all, of the programs I watch are on the local networks ( ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox) Why should I pay Comcast a hundred dollars or more/month for scores of channels I'm not watching.

Just noticed this on my bill today;

7/29 Internet Service - Adjustment -4.15
7/29 Basic Video - Adjustment -0.31
7/29 Basic Video - Adjustment -1.81
7/29 HBO - Adjustment -1.45
7/29 Music Choice - Adjustment -0.02
7/29 Franchise Related Cost - Adjustment -0.07
7/29 Digital Plus - Adjustment -0.48
7/29 Digital Classic - Adjustment -0.69
7/29 Digital Access - Adjustment -0.26

Did comcast reduce their prices?

Press POWER to turn the box off. Press MENU on the front. Use "cursor" arrows on box to change the output setting to 720p. Press MENU again. Press POWER to turn box on. Voila!

Just noticed this on my bill today;

7/29 Internet Service - Adjustment -4.15
7/29 Basic Video - Adjustment -0.31
7/29 Basic Video - Adjustment -1.81
7/29 HBO - Adjustment -1.45
7/29 Music Choice - Adjustment -0.02
7/29 Franchise Related Cost - Adjustment -0.07
7/29 Digital Plus - Adjustment -0.48
7/29 Digital Classic - Adjustment -0.69
7/29 Digital Access - Adjustment -0.26

Did comcast reduce their prices?

This was a rebate for 1 day of lost services due to an outage in the area.
Impressive that they did this without me asking for it. I did not realize they would rebate for outages.

>Press POWER to turn the box off. Press MENU on the front. Use "cursor" arrows on box to change the output setting to 720p. Press MENU again. Press POWER to turn box on. Voila!<

Really? Sounds like a real manual process. What's it normally outputting at and does it make a real difference in picture quality? I'm assuming it will...

>Press POWER to turn the box off. Press MENU on the front. Use "cursor" arrows on box to change the output setting to 720p. Press MENU again. Press POWER to turn box on. Voila!<

Really? Sounds like a real manual process. What's it normally outputting at and does it make a real difference in picture quality? I'm assuming it will...

You can configure it to output either 720p or 1080i. Whether it makes a difference or not depends on the channel you're watching and the quality of the scalar in your display. i.e. if you have a 720p display and are watching ESPNHD, you'd want it set for 720p to avoid unnecessary conversion to 1080i and then back to 720p.

>Press POWER to turn the box off. Press MENU on the front. Use "cursor" arrows on box to change the output setting to 720p. Press MENU again. Press POWER to turn box on. Voila!<

Really? Sounds like a real manual process. What's it normally outputting at and does it make a real difference in picture quality? I'm assuming it will...

It normally outputs at 1080i and thats where I would leave it. I have 2 720p sets and to me it still looks better when given a 1080i source than it's native resolution but YMMV.

If they went strictly ala carte,here is what MY dream lineup could be like based on current selections :I suspect that you would lose out on a la carte, given how many different cable channels you want. You'd be better off sticking with packages.

It normally outputs at 1080i and thats where I would leave it. I have 2 720p sets and to me it still looks better when given a 1080i source than it's native resolution but YMMV.

I played with it last night and the 720p did look better on the football game (less blurry on the fast moving parts), but it didn't look so hot on the Discovery HD, 1080i looked better in my opinion... I think I'm gonna stick with 1080i...

Is there a way to change a setting in the Comast DVR box so that when using the remote to manually enter a 2-digit channel number the user doesn't have to first input a "0" - or two "00"'s for a 1-digit channel number?

And, what is the method for using the remote to view the DVR box setup menu where the signal strength is shown? A Comcast technician once pressed a few remote keys to quickly get to this menu, but I didn't follow it.

Thanks.

look in the menu for auto tune

Do we have a Comcast employee on this board ? I was just wondering if the Digital Starter package will see anymore HD channels or will Comcast just add them to the Classic package to get people to move to that package.

Good evening,
Has there been an official announcement regarding a delay in the release of the TiVo software rollout in the Boston area? I know we are all waiting but just curious whats happening since August is almost over


Thanks

Tom

Do we have a Comcast employee on this board ? I was just wondering if the Digital Starter package will see anymore HD channels or will Comcast just add them to the Classic package to get people to move to that package.
They've been actively adding HD channels to Digital Starter for a while now. It seems that they've actually been aligning the HD channels with their SD counterparts. Wouldn't be surprised to see ESPNHD and TNTHD switched to Digital Starter before too long.

Good evening,
Has there been an official announcement regarding a delay in the release of the TiVo software rollout in the Boston area? I know we are all waiting but just curious whats happening since August is almost over


Thanks

Tom
Officially, no.

Unofficially, my friend from Comcast says they're beta testing it in New Hampshire starting this week (...no, you can't call up to get in on the beta test.) They expect the beta test to last about a month.

I'm on the $99 comcast triple play plan right now(digital starter + analog claasic). I recently bought a HDTV with QAM tuner built-in. I thought I should be able to pick up the unencrypted HDTV for a few local channels such as NBC, CBS etc. However, there is no picture but sound on those channels (804, 802 etc.). Did Comcast encrypt them in Boston?
Thanks.

I'm on the $99 comcast triple play plan right now(digital starter + analog claasic). I recently bought a HDTV with QAM tuner built-in. I thought I should be able to pick up the unencrypted HDTV for a few local channels such as NBC, CBS etc. However, there is no picture but sound on those channels (804, 802 etc.). Did Comcast encrypt them in Boston?
Thanks.

Plug the raw cable into your TV antennea posrt and have it autosearch for digital cable channels, it'll pick them up in the 2-120 range with lots of x.y channels too, see my earlier post for what I got with Comcast minimum basic ($9/month). This layout has since changed and from what I understand it changes often. You'll also likely pick up your neighbor's PPV on occasion.

i just switch over from directv to comcast. the audio on all of my hd channels is good except for the nesn hd channlel 851 where i can only get the audio in my rear speakers with certain settings from my yamaha 5760 receiver. anyone have similar experiences?

ps-just got delivery of my sony kdl52xbr4 today with wall installation tomorrow. just in time for college football season. :D

It normally outputs at 1080i and thats where I would leave it. I have 2 720p sets and to me it still looks better when given a 1080i source than it's native resolution but YMMV.

I've always wondered why they don't just have box pass the native signal through without any conversion, and then let the TV handle the conversion on its own (I'm assuming it would do a better job than the box). Wouldn't that be easier than converting one of the signals to the other format?

i just switch over from directv to comcast. the audio on all of my hd channels is good except for the nesn hd channlel 851 where i can only get the audio in my rear speakers with certain settings from my yamaha 5760 receiver. anyone have similar experiences?

Yes, all the time, believe it is a NESN problem.

Yes, all the time, believe it is a NESN problem.

NESN does not broadcast away games in 5.1. They are Dolby 2.0. Home games are broadcast in 5.1.

Therefore use a 2 channel receiver setup for road games and 5.1 setups for home games.

I have the 3412 STB and used to have the 6412. I have had the freezing or queuing issue where the box won't respond to any input and then responds to all the commands at once. I searched AVS in general but there haven't been any recent posts on this issue, so are people just living with this issue? I run into this far too often and it is extremely annoying. I can't believe Motorola gets away with this.

I have the 3412 STB and used to have the 6412. I have had the freezing or queuing issue where the box won't respond to any input and then responds to all the commands at once. I searched AVS in general but there haven't been any recent posts on this issue, so are people just living with this issue? I run into this far too often and it is extremely annoying. I can't believe Motorola gets away with this.

If it does it every now or then, then this is normal. If it does this frequently then I would say it has an issue. Try re-booting and see if this helps, if not I would swap it out for another box. I have had 4 different STB's and all have exihibited this behavior but never to a point where it becomes irritating and I can easily put up with it since it does not happen that often. I hope this helps.

If it does it every now or then, then this is normal. If it does this frequently then I would say it has an issue. Try re-booting and see if this helps, if not I would swap it out for another box. I have had 4 different STB's and all have exihibited this behavior but never to a point where it becomes irritating and I can easily put up with it since it does not happen that often. I hope this helps.

It does help, thanks :). I suppose I may be overreacting but it happens at the worst times, like when I accidentally switch channels at the worst times and can't change the channel back. It is still disappointing that it happens at all so many years after the issue became known.

That indicates to me that the problem is in hardware, and so you'll see it remedied when Motorola substantially redesigns its DVR hardware. (The DCH-series is NOT a substantial redesign.)

Maybe someone can answer this... why is Comcast's feed perpetually 2-3 seconds behind Charter's? This applies to both standard as well as high definition, and was rather noticeable when I was conversing with someone that has Charter during Clay Buchholz's no-hitter on Saturday night.

If this were just relegated to NESN, I could understand. But, the same thing occurs when watching YES, USA, NBC, etc...

TBS-HD is now on. TBS will be carrying the ALDS. Hope that Comcast will have TBS-HD up and running by 10/1 for the Sox games . It looks very good for the Sox being in the playoffs

does anyone know why comcast doesn't broadcast channel 7 in hd?

does anyone know why comcast doesn't broadcast channel 7 in hd?

I get Channel 7 in HD. I believe only the national network feed has content available in HD. No local shows/news.

I believe only Channel 5 has local news in HD.

maybe its me- but when I go into on demand and then premium channels- it seems that each premium channel (showtime, starz etc) all has its own section for HD on demand. I only subscribe to HBO-but nowhere do I see HD on demand for HBO! Am I missing something here-or is it located in another place? thanks
thetman

maybe its me- but when I go into on demand and then premium channels- it seems thate ach premium channel (showtime, starz etc) all has its own section for HD on demand. I only subscribe to HBO-but nowhere do I see HD on demand for HBO! Am I missing something here-or is it located in another place? thanks
thetman
I believe there is currently no HD programming from HBO available on demand, they did have some a few months ago, but, nothing recently. Not sure what the reason is for this.

wow, that kinda sucks-might have to drop it for starz or something- they seem to have alot of decent movies in HD.
thetman

Anyone get their statement for September yet? Supposedly that is how they are going to communicate whether you have the ability ot upgrade to the Tivo service or not.

Nothing in my statement. :(

What is happening is NH is running a beta test and we will get it in Oct or Nov.

I hope we get some more HD channels as well,especially channel 831!

With College Football starting and the Celtics possibly not totally sucking this year, is there any sign of FSNE HD starting (852, I assume).

With College Football starting and the Celtics possibly not totally sucking this year, is there any sign of FSNE HD starting (852, I assume).

FSN HD had 3 CFB games last saturday, not sure if FSN NE showed them, but most of the FSN HD network saw them.

FSN HD had 3 CFB games last saturday, not sure if FSN NE showed them, but most of the FSN HD network saw them.

I'm sure FSNE showed the games, but just in SD here. We don't have a HD channel for FSNE yet.

To me, FSNE HD has to be up and running by the start of the Celtics season (if not preseason). Especially with Comcast owning the channel now and with the completely revamped Celtics team, it will be a huge marketing opportunity lost if they don't do it.

directv's new hd channels will include fsne which i believe will be airing sometime in october. i may be switching back to directv soon as they have offered me a free high def dvr receiver/dish and will soon have a lot more high def channels than comcast.

ps-i still do not receive channel 807 (boston nbc high def). i checked the channel lineup and it doesn't appear at all on my guide or when i check the comcast website. anyone else with this problem?

Maybe someone can answer this... why is Comcast's feed perpetually 2-3 seconds behind Charter's? This applies to both standard as well as high definition, and was rather noticeable when I was conversing with someone that has Charter during Clay Buchholz's no-hitter on Saturday night.

If this were just relegated to NESN, I could understand. But, the same thing occurs when watching YES, USA, NBC, etc...

If you're watching a DVR and your Charter friend is not, there's your answer.

I'm sure FSNE showed the games, but just in SD here. We don't have a HD channel for FSNE yet.

To me, FSNE HD has to be up and running by the start of the Celtics season (if not preseason). Especially with Comcast owning the channel now and with the completely revamped Celtics team, it will be a huge marketing opportunity lost if they don't do it.

FSNE HD HAS been "up and running" for a long while... just not on Comcast systems. We former Adelphia customers have had the channel for a long while now. Comcast just needs to light it up on the rest of their systems.

Up until now, the channel has been a massive waste of bandwidth. They'd show Celtics games, perhaps another show or two per day, and that's it. No simulcast of SD material. The rest of the time the channel displayed a bouncing logo. So, you'd maybe get 10-15 hours of content a week during the Celtics season, and the rest of the time you'd get the logo. Yawn.

Now that the Celts are predicted to be a contender, I wouldn't be surprised to see Comcast get their collective act together and turn it up on the rest of their systems ASAP.

directv's new hd channels will include fsne which i believe will be airing sometime in october. i may be switching back to directv soon as they have offered me a free high def dvr receiver/dish and will soon have a lot more high def channels than comcast.

ps-i still do not receive channel 807 (boston nbc high def). i checked the channel lineup and it doesn't appear at all on my guide or when i check the comcast website. anyone else with this problem?


What part of MA areyou in, becasue some areas don't recieve NBC in HD due to not being in the Boston DMA. You might be in the Providence DMA so your getting 810 instead of 807.

I'm sure FSNE showed the games, but just in SD here. We don't have a HD channel for FSNE yet.

To me, FSNE HD has to be up and running by the start of the Celtics season (if not preseason). Especially with Comcast owning the channel now and with the completely revamped Celtics team, it will be a huge marketing opportunity lost if they don't do it.

Ya'll don't have a dedicated FSN channel? My bad, i coulda swore ya did. Sorry, hope when they relaunch FSN NE as CSN NE, that you get a full time slot.

i live in south easton. i do receive channels 4 (cbs) and 5 (abc) in high def, and channel 10-providence (nbc) which is weird. too bad you can't change your service address like i did for directv to get all of the boston channels.

Comcast doesn't have a dedicated FSNE HD channel. Any Celtics games in HD (which last year were just home games) are shown on Mojo (channel 881).

I didn't know that former Adelphia have FSNE HD. I just assumed the channel didn't exist. Well, I guess for the most part it doesn't exist anyway since it isn't a simulcast of the SD content.

I can't imagine Comcast would do that again this year. FSNE HD has to be on their system with a full lineup of programming by the time the Celtics start. It is the perfect time to rebrand the channel to Comcast Sports New England or whatever they call it and really push the HD angle.

I hope they also do road games in HD this year. Basketball is one of those sports that really looks good in HD.

Sox winning and Yankees losing :)

Meanwhile I can't get any NFL Network on demand stuff and I DO GET SnE!

Sox winning and Yankees losing :)


Come on chitchat, you know better than to tempt the fates like that.... um, although 'Tek hit a 2-run dinger as I typed this, so perhaps you've got some superfast feed that shows the game an hour earlier than it's actually being played? ;)

Oh crap, now look what I've started.... Jays tie it with a Glaus homer in the 8th off Delcarmen. grrrr...

as good old Yogi Berra said, "It ain't over till it's over"

That indicates to me that the problem is in hardware, and so you'll see it remedied when Motorola substantially redesigns its DVR hardware. (The DCH-series is NOT a substantial redesign.)

It's not a hardware issue its a software issue, the RCN software'd boxes I've used have not exhibited the problem. I'm hoping the Tivo software doesn't have the issue.

Any idea if i could get the Boston HD locals on Directv in the Northern Virginia area with a "service address change"?

i think that you should be able to get the boston hd local channels with a service change address. i have heard of a few people who winter in florida who arrange to do that every six months.

Any idea if i could get the Boston HD locals on Directv in the Northern Virginia area with a "service address change"?

I thought the locals were spot beams and only covered a certain radius. I do know that you can get Vermont locals in MA, but it requires a second dish pointed in another direction.

If you're watching a DVR and your Charter friend is not, there's your answer.

Both feeds were analog, no converter, just RG-59 to coaxial input.

Both feeds were analog, no converter, just RG-59 to coaxial input.

Huh. Then the delay must be at the headend.

Huh. Then the delay must be at the headend.

I don't understand the point of the question; there are so many variables involved.

I don't understand the point of the question; there are so many variables involved.

Television A, Charter Communications subscriber
Television B, Comcast subscriber

Date, Saturday, September 1st

I was watching an analog broadcast of the Red Sox game on NESN (Television B) and conversing with a relative (Television A). There was an obvious delay in Comcast's feed (Television B). Both signals were analog, no converters, no DVRs, etc.

I was merely attempting to understand why this is the case, as it occurs with many more stations than NESN.

Television A, Charter Communications subscriber
Television B, Comcast subscriber

Date, Saturday, September 1st

I was watching an analog broadcast of the Red Sox game on NESN (Television B) and conversing with a relative (Television A). There was an obvious delay in Comcast's feed (Television B). Both signals were analog, no converters, no DVRs, etc.

I was merely attempting to understand why this is the case, as it occurs with many more stations than NESN.

It's always going to be the case and Subscriber C may be less delayed than either of you guys. I guess if you want to understand the technical reasons that's fine, but you won't be able to change your delay.

Apologies if this has already been covered.

I have been having more and more trouble with Dolby Digital audio on HD channels. Some, like NESN-HD, are completely silent, even though my controller says it is receiving a DD5.1 stream. Some, like MHD, come and go, depending on the programming (concert - silence, cut to MHD 30 second promo - full audio, back to concert - silence). Then there is one (either Discovery or Nat Geographic) on which I can hear the music cues and the narrator, but not the main audio (i..e.: the person seen speaking)!

Is this a source problem, local Comcast problem, cable box problem, or audio controller problem? Any ideas?

Specifics: DCT6412 (rev1), SPDIF out to Lexicon MC-8.

Thanks,
Gary

Apologies if this has already been covered.

I have been having more and more trouble with Dolby Digital audio on HD channels. Some, like NESN-HD, are completely silent, even though my controller says it is receiving a DD5.1 stream. Some, like MHD, come and go, depending on the programming (concert - silence, cut to MHD 30 second promo - full audio, back to concert - silence). Then there is one (either Discovery or Nat Geographic) on which I can hear the music cues and the narrator, but not the main audio (i..e.: the person seen speaking)!

Is this a source problem, local Comcast problem, cable box problem, or audio controller problem? Any ideas?

Specifics: DCT6412 (rev1), SPDIF out to Lexicon MC-8.


Thanks,
Gary

I dunno, I have Comcast down here in Easton,with a 6200, and I am TRYING to watch the Red Sox on NESNHD...
Talk about frustrating- massive audio and video dropouts- audio every 20 seconds- video mess every 30 seconds- sometimes every 10 seconds for both... it's discouraging to say the least.
I listen to Digital music all the time as well(background- almost always on), and I have noticed more and more dropouts lately, when it drops out, my Dolby Digital light blinks off- and back on quickly........
I never have a problem with my Pre/Pro(Boston Acoustics AVP7, AKA Sherwood Newcastle P965) with ANY other source- EVER.
I have triple checked all connections- tried Toslink, and coaxial.....
This is getting pathetic......

As I type this, She just told me, that it's been happening upstairs(6412) for a couple of days now..........

What I have going on NOW, looks to be local.....but I have been having dropouts alot as of late......

I just flicked over to Analog Nesn.. no video or audio dropouts..
They also stated on the phone(recorded message), that they were having problems with 3 different HD feeds, but NesnHD wasn't one of the ones mentioned.....

I think road games are only in stereo, with audio on left and right channels only on Dolby 5.1 mode which NESN is still in on road games. Fenway games are 5.1.

I think road games are only in stereo, with audio on left and right channels only on Dolby 5.1 mode which NESN is still in on road games. Fenway games are 5.1.

That's what I've heard, too. Unfortunately I get no audio at all on NESN. The MC-8 identifies it as a DD5.1 stream no matter what the program material is. I can switch to analog stereo from the DCT and that is fine (for Dolby stereo), but it is as if the digital stream is muted. The weird thing is, it used to work.

I'm more than willing to believe that my MC-8 got toasted somewhere along the way, except it works fine for other DD sources. Does Comcast muck with the digital audio stream along the way?

-Gary

That's what I've heard, too. Unfortunately I get no audio at all on NESN. The MC-8 identifies it as a DD5.1 stream no matter what the program material is. I can switch to analog stereo from the DCT and that is fine (for Dolby stereo), but it is as if the digital stream is muted. The weird thing is, it used to work.

I'm more than willing to believe that my MC-8 got toasted somewhere along the way, except it works fine for other DD sources. Does Comcast muck with the digital audio stream along the way?

-Gary

What does Comcast have to say? I have not noticed any problems with DD5.1 or NESN.

Has anyone in Bristol County been experiencing very persistent and simultaneous audio cutout and video stutter on a few of Comcast's HD channels such as NESN and both ESPN's?

It's been occurring since last friday and seems to only effect the upper HD channels. The lower HD channels are fine along with standard definition channels.

I thought it was a Comcast issue that would have been fixed in a short amount of time, but hell was I wrong.

Has anyone in Bristol County been experiencing very persistent and simultaneous audio cutout and video stutter on a few of Comcast's HD channels such as NESN and both ESPN's?

It's been occurring since last friday and seems to only effect the upper HD channels. The lower HD channels are fine along with standard definition channels.

I thought it was a Comcast issue that would have been fixed in a short amount of time, but hell was I wrong.

That is usually a box issue. Try rebooting and if the problem is still there, try to toggle between a SD channel to a HD one and leave it on each for at least a minute or so. Do this process 2 or 3 times using different channels. I have found by doing this that it puts the box back in sync and the stutter and drop outs seem to disappear. I have been experiencing these problems myself lately because my power has been going out for short intervals and it seems to throw the box out of whack so when it comes back on I have applied this remedy and it has worked each time. Give it a try and let me know if it helped.

That is usually a box issue. Try rebooting and if the problem is still there, try to toggle between a SD channel to a HD one and leave it on each for at least a minute or so. Do this process 2 or 3 times using different channels. I have found by doing this that it puts the box back in sync and the stutter and drop outs seem to disappear. I have been experiencing these problems myself lately because my power has been going out for short intervals and it seems to throw the box out of whack so when it comes back on I have applied this remedy and it has worked each time. Give it a try and let me know if it helped.

Hey it worked! I unplugged my box for a few seconds, plugged it back in and it now works fine. Interestingly, I also had my power go off last friday, the same day this annoyance started. Can't believe that I never thought of trying to reboot the receiver... wow. :confused:

Very much appreciate the help, now I can resume watching Sox games on NESN HD instead of having to flip to the SD channel. :)

Thanks again!

Has anyone in Bristol County been experiencing very persistent and simultaneous audio cutout and video stutter on a few of Comcast's HD channels such as NESN and both ESPN's?

It's been occurring since last friday and seems to only effect the upper HD channels. The lower HD channels are fine along with standard definition channels.

I thought it was a Comcast issue that would have been fixed in a short amount of time, but hell was I wrong.

Yes- I have been having SERIOUS video and audio issues lately- especially since last weekend.
It ALSO affects a bunch of Digital Music channels- I'm listening right now- and it's not even going 20 seconds between dropouts....
This is getting pathetic- I have to find out whats wrong- because I listen to these all the time, and I watch HD as much as possible...
It's getting extremely irritating....

I live in Bristol- Easton

That is usually a box issue. Try rebooting and if the problem is still there, try to toggle between a SD channel to a HD one and leave it on each for at least a minute or so. Do this process 2 or 3 times using different channels. I have found by doing this that it puts the box back in sync and the stutter and drop outs seem to disappear. I have been experiencing these problems myself lately because my power has been going out for short intervals and it seems to throw the box out of whack so when it comes back on I have applied this remedy and it has worked each time. Give it a try and let me know if it helped.

I tried a reboot the other night, and it didn't seem to help...
Gonna give it another try.

Thanks

m

That is usually a box issue. Try rebooting and if the problem is still there, try to toggle between a SD channel to a HD one and leave it on each for at least a minute or so. Do this process 2 or 3 times using different channels. I have found by doing this that it puts the box back in sync and the stutter and drop outs seem to disappear. I have been experiencing these problems myself lately because my power has been going out for short intervals and it seems to throw the box out of whack so when it comes back on I have applied this remedy and it has worked each time. Give it a try and let me know if it helped.

Well, I unplugged it again for a couple minutes.... no go.....
Swapped back and forth 4 or 5 times(sd/hd)...
SEEMS to have fixed it!!!

The channel I'm listening to right now, was dropping <every 20 seconds- it hasn't dropped since i started typing this, and Nesn(which was dropping almost immediately upon callup-seems to have stopped as well.

Thanks for the tip- I hope that's all it was- great to know that!!

Thanks Again- and I hope thats the end of that!!

m

FWIW, my friend who works for Comcast said that he found out today that CNNHD, History HD, TBS HD, and one other HD channel that I'm forgetting will be launched in New England "shortly".

I live in Bristol- Easton

Fall River here. Strange that we both experienced the same issues roughly at the same time but live a decent distance from each other.

Hopefully it continues to work without issue for you. It's been over an hour here and the problem hasn't occurred again.

FWIW, my friend who works for Comcast said that he found out today that CNNHD, History HD, TBS HD, and one other HD channel that I'm forgetting will be launched in New England "shortly".

Good news. You should post that in this (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=424081)thread.

Hey it worked! I unplugged my box for a few seconds, plugged it back in and it now works fine. Interestingly, I also had my power go off last friday, the same day this annoyance started. Can't believe that I never thought of trying to reboot the receiver... wow. :confused:

Very much appreciate the help, now I can resume watching Sox games on NESN HD instead of having to flip to the SD channel. :)

Thanks again!

No problem, glad I could be of help. Seems that this issue is definitly Power ( surges) related. Lets hope that if it happens again that this remedy keeps working or even better that we don't lose power at all. :D

FWIW, my friend who works for Comcast said that he found out today that CNNHD, History HD, TBS HD, and one other HD channel that I'm forgetting will be launched in New England "shortly".

That would be great, maybe L Supreme can confirm this if it is true!

Today I got Comcast installed in Brookline with the digital starter package and HBO. It came with a Motorola DVR that I don't plan to use. Unfortunately, my PC QAM tuner (OnAir GT) doesn't pick up /anything/, including analog cable!

I was under the impression that people were able to get channels in clear QAM from Comcast. What's odd is that the the Motorola box picks up everything just fine, but the OnAir gets nothing. Anyone else had this experience? Could it be that the Motorola box sends a signal to Comcast to broadcast the appropriate stuff, so when I connect the GT instead it breaks?

That would be great, maybe L Supreme can confirm this if it is true!


I haven't heard anything about this as of yet


Today I got Comcast installed in Brookline with the digital starter package and HBO. It came with a Motorola DVR that I don't plan to use. Unfortunately, my PC QAM tuner (OnAir GT) doesn't pick up /anything/, including analog cable!

I was under the impression that people were able to get channels in clear QAM from Comcast. What's odd is that the the Motorola box picks up everything just fine, but the OnAir gets nothing. Anyone else had this experience? Could it be that the Motorola box sends a signal to Comcast to broadcast the appropriate stuff, so when I connect the GT instead it breaks?



In the Boston area (Brookline included), the only channels unencrypted are Broadcast Channels & HD counterparts. I'm not sure why you're not even getting those with your GT.

FWIW, my friend who works for Comcast said that he found out today that CNNHD, History HD, TBS HD, and one other HD channel that I'm forgetting will be launched in New England "shortly".
My guess on this (and it is only a guess) is that Comcast is waiting to see exactly what new HD channels D* rolls out next week, and exactly which channels they intend to charge an additional fee for. Then Comcast will determine what they should add and when (factoring in pockets of bandwidth shortages around the country), in addition to a possible marketing campaign promoting the fact that Comcast is providing for “free” what others are charging extra for.

Mickey

Anyone else had this experience? I have the OnAir GT, connected to Comcast cable in MA... works fine, both for in-the-clear analog channels and in-the-clear QAM channels.

NO Blackout for tonight's game on ESPN!

NO Blackout for tonight's game on ESPN!

Yeah, we don't have to listen to those dufus NESN commentators!

La la la la. Still waiting for Comcast TiVo... La la la la... Can't get a 3416...SOS...:(

La la la la. Still waiting for Comcast TiVo... La la la la... Can't get a 3416...SOS...:(

I've heard/read that it is in the beta testing phase right now in NH. Not here in Concord. Is anyone ACTUALLY testing it? I figured I would have heard someone's report of it if the test was a public test

Eric, Brookline and Boston use the HRC (Harmonically Related Carrier) channel scheme. Check your software and see if it supports HRC tuning.

Mallego

Question for L Supreme, What HD channels will Comcast be adding to the Starter/expanded basic package down the road?

Is there a price difference between Digital Starter and expanded basic? I know the Starter package has a lot more channels, but the same HD channels.

Thanks..

Question for L Supreme, What HD channels will Comcast be adding to the Starter/expanded basic package down the road?

Is there a price difference between Digital Starter and expanded basic? I know the Starter package has a lot more channels, but the same HD channels.

Thanks..

Honestly, I have never been able to figure out Comcast's packages. I once called up customer service and told them that their website did a poor job of explaining this and she responded by offering to read me all the channels available with different packages. I took her up on the offer just to make her feel the pain and she actually did read all the channels from basic on up.

Yeah, we don't have to listen to those dufus NESN commentators!

Yes, that was one of the 2 games per year per team that there are no blackout restrictions on. NESN's HD was far superior though. The picture on ESPN looked like 720p even though they broadcast at 1080i.

Too bad it had such a bad ending.

Question for L Supreme, What HD channels will Comcast be adding to the Starter/expanded basic package down the road?

Is there a price difference between Digital Starter and expanded basic? I know the Starter package has a lot more channels, but the same HD channels.

Thanks..

As for what channels will be added, I only know of 1 station coming soon, but I can't speak on it.

About the difference between expanded & starter

Standard Cable = Basic (Locals) + Expanded (channels 20 - 99)
Digital Starter = Basic + Expanded + STB (Digital, HD or DVR)

Price wise the only difference is the cost of the box. Channel wise, as of now, you get more digital channels.

Yes, that was one of the 2 games per year per team that there are no blackout restrictions on. NESN's HD was far superior though. The picture on ESPN looked like 720p even though they broadcast at 1080i.

ESPN is 720p.

TBS-HD for Sox playoffs , I hope.

I'm hoping the Discovery HD's come out on comast soon. HD theatre is okay, but alot of repeats.

As for what channels will be added, I only know of 1 station coming soon, but I can't speak on it.

The smart money is on C-SPAN 3.

:D

As far as pricing, I previously received the triple play bundle package with HBO and Starz included, and HD channels, but no sports tier. I received in the mail an offer to upgrade to all the channles including sports tier and all movie channels, as well as internet and phone. All three for $159 for one year, which is 10 dollars cheaper than what I was previously paying. Overall it seems like a decent deal, when you factor in all the extra pay movie and sports tier. Hopefully they add the NHL network now.

does anyone here use a firewire connection out of their cable box to record/view hdtv? I have Comcast, I live on the Cape and for the past 3 days I have not been able to view or record CBS HD. Not a big deal this week, but next week the Pats are back on CBS. Thanks for your help.

does anyone here use a firewire connection out of their cable box to record/view hdtv?

I'm working on it right now. My friend says that his roomate does this using MythTV. I'm going to talk to him in the next couple of days and figure out how he got it to work. In the meantime, I'm going to play with Myth and the box to see if I can get it to work myself. I'll report back when I do.

This site is useful:
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

The DVR I got with digital starter is the 3416---it has firewire ports.

I have a motorola dct6200 and it has worked fine for a year, using SageTV. My problem is that I've lost 804 (CBS/WBZ) perhaps they are 5C encrypting it? Ironically I started using SageTV and bought HDTV, just for PATS games and most of them are on CBS.

I have a motorola dct6200 and it has worked fine for a year, using SageTV. My problem is that I've lost 804 (CBS/WBZ) perhaps they are 5C encrypting it? Ironically I started using SageTV and bought HDTV, just for PATS games and most of them are on CBS.They are not allowed to encrypt the OTA broadcast channels. I have a 3412 and all the OTA channels are unencrypted.

That's what I thought. I get:

802 PBS HD
805 ABC HD
807 NBC HD
825 FOX HD
828 MTV HD
837 A&E HD
838 WSBK HD
850 ESPN2 HD
851 NESN HD
856 WLVI HD

As of a few days ago 804 (CBS HD) will not come through the firewire connection. I can watch it using the cable box or through the the ATSC tuner, so it is NOT being encrypted via QAM, but since it isn't coming out over the firewire port, does that mean it is 5C encrypted?

You should have heard me asking this question to the Comcast technical support. She kept wants to send a technician to check the connection at my house. I asked if he knew anything about firewire and she replied that he would check my coaxial connections and verify that it is working on the TV. They were going to charge me for this. It reminded me of getting my temperature taken by the school nurse for a twisted ankle.

That's what I thought. I get:

802 PBS HD
805 ABC HD
807 NBC HD
825 FOX HD
828 MTV HD
837 A&E HD
838 WSBK HD
850 ESPN2 HD
851 NESN HD
856 WLVI HD

As of a few days ago 804 (CBS HD) will not come through the firewire connection. I can watch it using the cable box or through the the ATSC tuner, so it is NOT being encrypted via QAM, but since it isn't coming out over the firewire port, does that mean it is 5C encrypted?

You should have heard me asking this question to the Comcast technical support. She kept wants to send a technician to check the connection at my house. I asked if he knew anything about firewire and she replied that he would check my coaxial connections and verify that it is working on the TV. They were going to charge me for this. It reminded me of getting my temperature taken by the school nurse for a twisted ankle.

The reason you were not given adequate support on this matter is that Comcast does not support the Firewire port. Its active due to FCC rules, but in terms of tech support, Comcast does not provide it due to the greatly varying differences between the way the devices need to be configured.

per the FCC mandate, are they allowed to use 5C encryption for free toair local channels?

per the FCC mandate, are they allowed to use 5C encryption for free toair local channels?

Honestly, I don't know enough about the mandate to speak on it more than I already have.

How are you guys trying to record over Firewire? You should really go to the HDTV Recorders forums because there's lots of threads over there on how to record over Firewire.

I have no problems recording over Firewire to my DVHS. It's just a bit glitchy, but it works.

In case you didn't know Wheel and Jep are FINALLY in HD on WSBK