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Ask Engadget HD: Can I subscribe to a service for just HDTV channels?
So you're considering fiber, satellite or cable TV, but don't want to pay for any channels that aren't available in HDTV. Barring a provider switching to full a la carte pricing overnight, we're only aware of TurboHD for that kind of service, but even that comes with drawbacks. Still, James knows what he won't watch, and that's anything in less than 720p, let's check out his question: "As always I love the site and the podcast, but I was hoping to draw on some knowledge. Are there any service providers, cable, online, etc. that provide HD only content packages? I really am not in love with the idea of paying for content I'll never watch, which is all of the SD content. Do I have any options? Or is this a pipe dream for the future? I live in John's Creek (Atlanta), GA." So, for the discriminating viewer, is TurboHD the best (or only) option? Let us know in the comments how James can get the most value for what he's interested in. Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.
MSNBC HD launches on DISH Network
Turbo HD shenanigans aside, DISH Network's latest press release touts its exclusive -- nationwide -- carriage of MSNBC HD, conveniently sidestepping Cablevision and Time Warner customers that have had the channel since launch last month. Still, if you enjoy Morning Joe and the rest of the MSNBC lineup in high definition and are a Classic Silver 200 or higher subscriber it should be in your lineup as of yesterday, though we suppose you're probably more interested in finding out if your DVR will continue to work.
All DISH customers with 5 new national HD channels step forward -- not so fast Turbo HD subs
No sooner did DISH Network light up HD feeds for Speed, FX, Fashion TV, Logo and MavTV (as promised) than we started receiving complaints from left-out feeling Turbo HD package subscribers. It appears that being all-high definition with your channel choices means no Speed or FX for you, while the others are on the $10 extra Platinum package. Still, for those on the Classic Silver 200 package and above there's plenty of NASCAR practices, widescreen F1 and Rescue Me enjoyment to be had. DISH is still holding itself out as the HD leader with a claimed 140+ national channels (MSNBC HD confirmed launching in June) but with a price hike failing to gain access to the latest channel lineup additions we're sure there's at least a few customers with differing opinions.[Thanks, J David]
DISH Network reveals future plans, price hike
Those subscribers still around on DISH Network should pay attention, as word out of the latest retailer chat has revealed everything coming down the pipe in the near future. First, the bad news: price hikes are on the way, starting February 1 Turbo HD packages increase between $5 - $10 per month, while the HD add on package price stays the same. Of course, increased HD services are promised to make the higher price worth it, and in a bit of good news, The Dark Knight hits DISH On Demand in 1080p the day after Christmas for $6.99, for all three of us who haven't bought the Blu-ray yet. Other than assorted other price changes, DISH is switching to a confusing new naming scheme for its SD channel lineups and all receivers, so say goodbye to the ViP722 and hello to the Enhanced HD Duo DVR Receiver. We can tell you've been overwhelmed by the excitement, check out the rest of the details at Satelliteguys.us and then let us know how you feel.
DISH Network details HD only TurboHD packages
Good on you, DISH Network. Rather than sitting idly by while everyone already knows that 17 new HD channels are coming in August, the satcaster has pushed out a press release making the newcomers official. 'Course, you didn't really expect DISH to push aside the opportunity to trumpet its pending leap to 100+ high-def stations, did you? Nevertheless, those 17 that we mentioned earlier today are indeed coming on August 1st, but what we didn't know was how exactly the long-rumored HD only packages would work. Also beginning on August 1st, the handful of TurboHD packages -- which will deliver only high-definition channels -- will be available with or without locals starting at $24.99 and topping out at $49.99. Check out the read link for more details. Oh, how we long for the day where HD only packages are commonplace across carriers.
