Going HD - Should I dump DirectTV?

The above varying responses must reflect geographic differences. I live in the DC metro area and I have Directv with HDTIVO. My parents have Comcast cable with their HD PVR device. The difference between the two for picture quality, ease of use, etc. is not close. The satellite is just superior although you do have to have an antennae with DT. My parents really want to switch but not sure they want to spend the money.

Get an antenna. TV service should be free as intended. After all you still have to watch commercials.

Interesting. Thanks for all of the responses. One option in staying with DirectTV is using my current TIVO on one of the lines to record non HD programs and living without TIVO for HD (I hate the thought but parting with $900 on top of a new TV and stand, etc. makes it a real possibility).

Another vote for DTV. We just switched last month from Comcast. No comparison, DTV has much better picture resolution, color and better motion.

It is quite interesting and amazing that quality of signals (or reception) can vary between neighbors, each having Satellite and between others, each having cable.

I am sorry to say that this discrepancy can be greater than we find here on audiogon with our own audio equipment.

I live in a major metropolitan area where OTA (off the air) HD signals have been around for some time and my little Terk $35.00 antenna brings in a better picture than my Dish Network HD feed. this could be my Dish receiver as it also has the ability to pull in OTA signals but my stand-alone HD receiver pulls in better HD signals. This is certainly the case for Monday Night Football and the local PBS station.

I do suggest you pay attention to what is available OTA in addition to whatever you decide for you main provider.