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DIRECTV
The Basics of DIRECTV
DIRECTV became available first in1994 as the first US satellite television service provider. They were also the first to include an interactive on-screen program guide and pay-per-view remote control ordering. Additionally, DIRECTV offers multi-cultural programming packages, in Spanish and Chinese.
DIRECTV currently offers access to more than 225 channels; the base package includes over 130 channels, local television broadcasts, and continuous music channels with prices starting at $39.99 per month There are a wide variety of add-on movie and sports packages, and subscribers gain instant access to new releases and live events on pay-per-view.
Additional Features of DIRECTV
DIRECTV offers upgrades to dishes and receivers that support high-definition TV (HDTV) and DVR (digital video recording). High definition TV is the newest technology, which gives viewers a “home-theatre” experience, enhancing both audio and visual clarity and crispness.
DIRECTV digital video recording with TiVo will allow a viewer to: record two shows at once, pause live broadcasts, rewind, playback in slow motion, enjoy instant replay and digitally record up to 35 hours of high definition programming without videotape (up to 200 hours of standard transmissions). TiVo allows specialized programming such as season-long taping of a subscriber’s favorite show.
DIRECTV has partnered with Verizon, BellSouth and Qwest to offer special packages to subscribers for digital subscriber line (DSL) internet services. DIRECTV has also introduced DirecWay, a satellite broadband internet access company. This service allows subscribers that do not have access to DSL or cable services to upgrade to faster internet service and stop tying up phone lines as well.
DIRECTV vs. DISH Network
Equipment costs and monthly fees are competitive between DIRECTV and DISH Network; both have interactive features, parental controls and electronic programs guides, so decision of which satellite television provider to use becomes a matter of the type and number of programs a subscriber wants to receive. DIRECTV holds a distinct advantage over DISH Network in the sports department. For die-hard sports fans, DIRECTV features seasonal broadcasts of every game in each of the following professional sports: NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. DISH Network is presently behind DIRECTV in HDTV capabilities, but has the most number of satellite bandwidth allocations, and the potential to broadcast close to 500 channels, including more HDTV. Their customer service rankings are higher than DIRECTV, and are the first satellite provider offering broadcasts to local markets in all 50 states.
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