Digital Programming

Satellite TV programming is 100% digital. That means superior quality picture and sound on all channels. In contrast, Cable TV 's Basic and Expanded Basic services are all Analog and remain in that format, even with an upgrade to Digital Cable because of bandwidth limitations. 100% digital programming throughout its entire channel lineup gives satellite television an ongoing advantage in program presentation.

Savings

In most cases, Satellite TV can save you money versus Cable TV. This amount will vary depending on where you live and depending on what services you buy. However, most satellite TV customers get better value for what they spend on TV programming.

This means more channels per dollar. Additional savings are realized in monthly subscription rates for Satellite TV which have increased approximately half as much as cable over an 9 year period. During that time, [from Jan 1997 to present] average cable rates have increased over 35%!

Programming Capability

Satellite TV systems can carry more total programming than most cable systems. This translates to more choice for today's consumer. Currently, Dish Network has the capability to provide over 500 channels of television, internet and data services via satellite on a single dish.

Bandwidth availability and an ability to attract niche audiences nationally, allows them to broadcast a spectrum of American programming and foreign language channels, from Arabic to Russian. In many cases, cable companies don't have the available bandwidth to provide this level of service.

Technology

Employing the latest technology, Satellite TV has improved the TV viewing experience by adding features that make it easier and more enjoyable to watch.

Pay-per-view movies, sporting events and regular programs are broadcast with Dolby Digital 5.1 Sound encoded, when available, to provide the best theatre quality sound experience.

Additionally, on-screen Electronic Program Guides allow users to interactively browse to see a detailed description of every show that's on at any hour of the day up to two weeks in advance.

High Definition Broadcasting

State-of-the-art HD broadcasting is definitely on Satellite TV, and this is a major advantage because high definition broadcasting on Cable TV and off air stations is limited.

Both DirecTV and Dish Network offer a range of channels, including HD versions of HBO and Showtime, HD Pay-Per-View movies, sports subscription channels and network programming.

Discovery HD has been added to both satellite provider channel lineups, while DirecTv introduced ESPN HD at the end of March 2003. Stay tuned for more HD channel additions in the coming months!

Receiving HD on Satellite TV requires a special HD set top receiver box or a high definition television with a built-in satellite HD receiver. The set top receivers feature modules which also facilitate the reception of standard off air digital signals; so, if you go with satellite, you won't need another box to receive off air digital when it finally comes.
Research shows that cable is far more susceptible to consumer defection than Satellite, with 21 percent of digital cable subscribers expressing an interest in switching to satellite television. Conversely, only 5 percent of Satellite subscribers would consider switching to digital cable. Overall, 57 percent reported that they had subscribed to cable in the past.