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Going HD - Should I dump DirectTV?

I am about to make the leap to HD with a plasma. It seems that cable options are better for HD, with just as much programming plus the locals without having to go through the hassle of an over-the-air antenna. The only sports package I get is the MLB extra innings, which is also available via cable. I have seen a couple of threads on the AVS forum about DirectTV adding satelites, requiring a bigger additional dish, etc. The only thing I am unsure about is Tivo. Is Tivo available for non HD on cable? It seems like cable is a better option for HD right now? Any help is appreciated.
maineiac
rwwear
2,873 posts
 
Get an antenna. TV service should be free as intended. After all you still have to watch commercials.
maineiac OP
649 posts
 
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).
brianw
373 posts
 
Another vote for DTV. We just switched last month from Comcast. No comparison, DTV has much better picture resolution, color and better motion.
unclejeff
1,313 posts
 
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.
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