KOIN HD

[cdizzy]

You probably won't care if you do not live in the Portland DMA but if you do I just noticed that KOIN(CBS) is listed as SD and HD in the D* guide.

I don't show it in my receiver guide but I hope this means it's coming soon.

[cdizzy]

It looks like they are showing other HD locals that are not offered in their guide as well.

Darn. Got my hopes up.

[merrile]

Nice call man, pumping up all the Porkland residents!

[hijump245]

I was just on the New Vision TV site yesterday trying to figure out when the official transition occurs, but it still shows "acquisition pending."

So I think nothing will happen until New Vision fully takes control. I hope.

[jackaninny]

I was just on the New Vision TV site yesterday trying to figure out when the official transition occurs, but it still shows "acquisition pending."

So I think nothing will happen until New Vision fully takes control. I hope.

do we have any idea when the ownership transition will be completed?

[cdizzy]

I was just on the New Vision TV site yesterday trying to figure out when the official transition occurs, but it still shows "acquisition pending."

So I think nothing will happen until New Vision fully takes control. I hope.

I was looking at that the other day as well. I noticed that the time between them getting one of their stations and then officially anouncing that the deal was completed took about 5 months. Ouch. That would put us somewhere in December.

Another thing to note is that thay were just getting one station at that point and this time they are getting 4. So, I don't know if that will make it take longer or not.

Either way, I don't understand why it's in the D* guide if we don't have it. :mad:

[cdizzy]

Nice call man, pumping up all the Porkland residents!

LOL, yea I know.

UFC saturday???

[stansher]

I just switched from E to D. I am pleased with the new HD lineup and am pleased I made the switch, except having to watch KOIN in SD. Which D guide are you refering to. Hope D can reach an agreement with the new owners soon!!!

[stansher]

I just switched from E to D. I am pleased with the new HD lineup and am pleased I made the switch, except having to watch KOIN in SD. Which D guide are you refering to. Hope D can reach an agreement with the new owners soon!!!

Found the guide, both channels 6 (KOIN) and Ion are listed twice as if their were HD feeds.

[marcmec]

Found the guide, both channels 6 (KOIN) and Ion are listed twice as if their were HD feeds.

I only see one listing for both KOIN and Ion in my guide.

[cdizzy]

The TV listings section on the D* website shows an HD and SD version of KOIN.

[marvod]

From the head engineer at KOIN on Monday this week.

"Negotiations with DirecTV went on hold last spring when KOIN and its sister stations were put up for sale. We expect the sale to close within the next couple of weeks and the new owner is aware that this needs to be addressed. Since they cannot legally communicate directly with us until the sale is complete (FCC rules forbid it) we do not know their exact timetable."

Mark

[cdizzy]

Wow, sounds like some reasonably good news. Thanks.

I would imagine that the sale will be finshed at least by the end of the year.

[Newshawk]

Gee, what's harsh going to whine about now?

[hijump245]

From the head engineer at KOIN on Monday this week.

"Negotiations with DirecTV went on hold last spring when KOIN and its sister stations were put up for sale. We expect the sale to close within the next couple of weeks and the new owner is aware that this needs to be addressed. Since they cannot legally communicate directly with us until the sale is complete (FCC rules forbid it) we do not know their exact timetable."

Mark

From the New Vision TV site, KOIN and Portland will be the highest DMA for them (23), so I would fully expect them to try and get us HD as quickly as possible.

[xphile]

I think Portland is the highest DMA without all of the "Big 4" in HD..... would be nice to pick up the CW, too!

[cdizzy]

I would also like to see D* pick up comcast sports network northwest which is due to launch on November 1st.

They currently carry all of the CSN's except for philly. I think CSN New England is launching the same day.

We'll see.

[hijump245]

Well the FCC has officially approved the transfer of KOIN to New Vision TV, as of this month. :joy:

http://www.oregonlive.com/movies/index.ssf/2007/11/koin_flipped_officially.html

I hope that indicates that changes are on the horizon to include HD on D* :gott:

[cdizzy]

Please, please, please let it be soon!

CBS is my most watched network and I can't watch it in SD anymore!!!

[Dusty]

Please, please, please let it be soon!

CBS is my most watched network and I can't watch it in SD anymore!!!

Not that they care about me, but I stopped watching news on KOIN because of this reason. The only show I watch on CBS now is NFL.

[Dusty]

Speaking of that, I know it is OT, but I am disappointed but not surprised the rumor Comcast Sportsnet Northwest was going to be luanched today on D* was unfounded. I suspect the standoff is going to drag on much longer now. I don't really care about CW. I want my Blazers. I have young children now. I can't go to the games like I used to. We obviously missed a good game last night. I personally would have enjoyed seeing Rasheed defeated.

[cdizzy]

Not that they care about me, but I stopped watching news on KOIN because of this reason. The only show I watch on CBS now is NFL.


I don't watch news on KOIN either. I just watch the primetime shows and it makes me mad when I see that "also available in HD" graphic pop up at the start of most shows.

[questcam]

I have recieved two emails from Directv today. First said that KOIN is available in HD. Not true. Second said that it is because they have sold too many hd receivers. Come on! See below.

I've got good news for you. I've checked our records and verified that we offer your CBS/KOIN in HD in Portland OR. Please tuned to channel 6 to get this channel.

I hope you find this information helpful and thank you again for writing.

Sincerely,

Edith G.
Employee ID 100129255
DIRECTV Customer Service


Thanks for writing us back about CBS channel in HD. I'm sorry to hear that you're not receiving the channel. We had hoped to be able to offer HD CBS channel in your area by now and I’m sorry that we haven’t been able to. Our newest HD-capable receivers have been more popular than we expected. As a result, we’ve had to slow down our timetable for offering HD locals in new markets until we feel like we’ve got enough equipment to meet the demand.

I know how important HD programming is to you and I assure you that we are doing our best to bring more of it to you as soon as possible. We hope to be able to announce a new start date for HD CBS channel in Portland OR soon.

If you have more questions, you may also call us at 1-800-531-5000. Our representatives will be happy to assist you.

Thanks again for writing, we appreciate your patience and understanding.

Sincerely,

Toni S.
Employee ID 100162806
DIRECTV Customer Service

[FlyinV]

So they are afraid that if they add this one channel it will suck up all HD equipment in the area?

Come on - thats really not a good excuse.

I just got D* and assumed CBS would be in HD -- but that was not the deciding factor -- it was the massive number of other HD channels that was offered and the extreme price difference between D* and Comcast.

Now I wish I could get Comcast Sportsnet NW pretty soon but hey I hope they are trying.

[Dusty]

I have recieved two emails from Directv today. First said that KOIN is available in HD. Not true. Second said that it is because they have sold too many hd receivers. Come on! See below.

I've got good news for you. I've checked our records and verified that we offer your CBS/KOIN in HD in Portland OR. Please tuned to channel 6 to get this channel.

I hope you find this information helpful and thank you again for writing.

Sincerely,

Edith G.
Employee ID 100129255
DIRECTV Customer Service


Thanks for writing us back about CBS channel in HD. I'm sorry to hear that you're not receiving the channel. We had hoped to be able to offer HD CBS channel in your area by now and I’m sorry that we haven’t been able to. Our newest HD-capable receivers have been more popular than we expected. As a result, we’ve had to slow down our timetable for offering HD locals in new markets until we feel like we’ve got enough equipment to meet the demand.

I know how important HD programming is to you and I assure you that we are doing our best to bring more of it to you as soon as possible. We hope to be able to announce a new start date for HD CBS channel in Portland OR soon.

If you have more questions, you may also call us at 1-800-531-5000. Our representatives will be happy to assist you.

Thanks again for writing, we appreciate your patience and understanding.

Sincerely,

Toni S.
Employee ID 100162806
DIRECTV Customer Service

There are easy explanations of these two mails.

The first CSR looked up the listing on their web site, responded using that impression without further checking.

The second CSR used their standard responses to customers whose DMA doesn't have HD local yet. She wasn't careful that this is not the case in Portland.

I think the major reason is the ownership change hand. Understandably, old owner won't sign any new contract. The new owner can't sign new contract until they take over.

[cdizzy]

Looks like New Vision has updated there website with the press release confirming the completetion of the buyout.

D* and New Vision need to start talking!

[marcmec]

I think that we should pummel them with emails and phone calls, in fact I think I'll start now...

KOIN
222 SW Columbia
Portland, OR 97201
Chris Sehring
General Manager
csehring@koin.com
503-464-0600

[cdizzy]

I actually emailed directv 30 minutes ago.


Your right though, I'll email KOIN as well.

[marcmec]

I actually emailed directv 30 minutes ago.


Your right though, I'll email KOIN as well.

I figured that the likely holdup is on KOIN's end given their history of being last:
Last local on DirecTV, Last HD network on Comcast.

I just finished my email to Chris.

[marcmec]

Here is the response that I got from KOIN. Since Chris actually answered the email (at 6:17 on Thanksgiving morning) and is "well aware of the need to resolve this issue" I am optimistic...

Marc:

Many thanks for the email.
Although I have only been here at KOIN for a short time, I am well aware of the need to resolve this issue.
KOIN's new owner, New Vision Television, plans to review and update as many of its stations' retrans agreements (including the agreement with DirecTV) as soon as possible.
As you can imagine, these agreements can be a bit complicated -- especially with new ownership. Nevertheless, I have been assured that New Vision is evaluating all of its retrans agreements as fast as it can.

I am sorry for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience.

Sincerely,

Christopher Sehring

[cdizzy]

I haven't been home to check any responses. So I'll let ya know when I get one.

[questcam]

I sent a message to KOIN this morning.

[cdizzy]

Well, i haven't received anything back from either KOIN or DirecTV. I'll let ya know when I do.

[questcam]

I sent a message to KOIN this morning.

I still have not heard back from KOIN. Hopefully they are working on this...

[Dusty]

Any Oregonians noticed the FIOS TV advertisement on Oregonian today? I went to their website to find out more about it and I found they already carry KOIN and KOIN HD. WTF! I don't understand how KOIN can ink an agreement with a new entity faster than D* who has been around forever.

Edit: While I am at it, in case you missed it, KGW will broadcast local news in HD starting from February, 2008. Cool!

[questcam]

Any Oregonians noticed the FIOS TV advertisement on Oregonian today? I went to their website to find out more about it and I found they already carry KOIN and KOIN HD. WTF! I don't understand how KOIN can ink an agreement with a new entity faster than D* who has been around forever.

Edit: While I am at it, in case you missed it, KGW will broadcast local news in HD starting from February, 2008. Cool!

Seems to me that if KOIN has agreed with comcast, dish, and now fios, the problem lies with Directv. They we the last to bring on KOIN as a local. I send them an email every once and a while requesting KOIN in HD. Not sure what else to do. I just want to view KOIN in HD!

[bberkley]

I put a Channel Master UHF antenna on the roof so I could get CBS in HD OTA out of Eugene as well as ABC before KATUHD went online with D*. It would be nice to have KOIN, but we rarely have any problems with the OTA reception, and the audio track often gets out of sync with the picture for KATUHD over D*.

[tuckerdog]

Trust me if i could get KOIN OTA i would. Actually had an instillation company spend $500 of my hard earned dollars trying to figure out an OTA solution, with no luck because of my geographic position. Bottom line is if you can get get KOIN OTA, more power to you, but for those of us who can't, we deserve the abilitity to keep it thru our PAID for SAT service

[questcam]

Trust me if i could get KOIN OTA i would. Actually had an instillation company spend $500 of my hard earned dollars trying to figure out an OTA solution, with no luck because of my geographic position. Bottom line is if you can get get KOIN OTA, more power to you, but for those of us who can't, we deserve the abilitity to keep it thru our PAID for SAT service

I agree! Geographically, I can't receive it OTA.

[questcam]

What is taking KOIN and Directv so long to negotiate KOIN in HD?!?

[cdizzy]

Good question. I emailed them both and got no response.

[tuckerdog]

Maybe an e-mail to KOIN's new owners would get more attention, especially one pointing out that their new properties management doesn't even have time to fire off a canned e-mail response
Michael

[woj027]

I fired off an email to Christoper Sehring (email provided above) this morning and had a reply in less than 30 mintues.


"Thank you for your email. As you may know, KOIN-TV is now owned by New Vision Television. We are doing our very best to resolve this HD issue with DirecTV (which, unfortunately, involves several other TV markets besides Portland) and hope to have this problem solved within the next few weeks. We realize that, though it is a complex issues, it is frustrating to our viewers. I am hopeful, though, that it will be resolved very soon. Thanks for your email."

It May be Happy New Year.

[cdizzy]

Sounds good. Getting this channel is #1 priority to me. All new national channels are just a bonus at this point. Get 'er done!

[woj027]

#1 for me is comcast Sports Northwest and the Blazers. I've always been a fan, but it was so hard to watch with all the thugs, now we have a team and i can't watch em.

A close second is KOIN HD (my girlfriend bitches every time Cane, or Amazing Race, or so many of her shows are in SD or get rained out because I bought a crappy OTA antenna.)

[marvod]

I just talked to my contact at KOIN and it sounds like New Vision and DTV had some talks but he didn't know if they are past the preliminary stage yet.

Soon I hope.

[cdizzy]

I just talked to my contact at KOIN and it sounds like New Vision and DTV had some talks but he didn't know if they are past the preliminary stage yet.

Soon I hope.



Me too. Sooner the better.

[Goldlexus]

Anyone know what the hold up is now? KOIN was acquired by New Vision in November. I want my HD tv :)

[marvod]

Its the same thing that holds all of these things up, money..

[chuck5395]

KOIN HD is the only thing is the only thing that need to make my conversion to DirecTV a total win for me. Everything else is great. I had no idea how much I watched this station until I moved to DirecTV and no longer had it in HD.:eek2:

[tuckerdog]

I have e-mailed KOIN on several occasions without the courtesy of a response.
Trying not to take the petulant approach, but I really do watch less of this channel since it is not in HD.
Maybe an e-mail to the new parent Co. would at least garner a reply
Very frustrating!
Michael

[Goldlexus]

Here is the response that I got from KOIN. Since Chris actually answered the email (at 6:17 on Thanksgiving morning) and is "well aware of the need to resolve this issue" I am optimistic...

Marc:

Many thanks for the email.
Although I have only been here at KOIN for a short time, I am well aware of the need to resolve this issue.
KOIN's new owner, New Vision Television, plans to review and update as many of its stations' retrans agreements (including the agreement with DirecTV) as soon as possible.
As you can imagine, these agreements can be a bit complicated -- especially with new ownership. Nevertheless, I have been assured that New Vision is evaluating all of its retrans agreements as fast as it can.

I am sorry for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience.

Sincerely,

Christopher Sehring


Well I decided to email Mr. Sehring today and got a response immediately.
Here is his response today 1/16/2008
*********
Thanks for the email.



We have received numerous letters and emails concerning this issue. As you may know, these cable and satellite retrans discussions often involve more than just one market or one station. There are a number of "other issues" that often makes these negotiations far more complicated than one would want.



Nevertheless, I do know that our New Vision corporate folks have been working closely with DirecTV over the past 2 weeks. I am optimistic that they will find a way to "yes" as quickly as possible; we sincerely want to provide you and other KOIN viewers with the HD signal that you rightfully expect.



Thank you for your patience. I am sorry that this has been so frustrating.



Chris Sehring
*********

He sent it to me along with CC to other KOIN excs. and a New Vision exec.
Hopefully soon.

[Dusty]

I have e-mailed KOIN on several occasions without the courtesy of a response.
Trying not to take the petulant approach, but I really do watch less of this channel since it is not in HD.
Maybe an e-mail to the new parent Co. would at least garner a reply
Very frustrating!
Michael

I did watch less CBS already. I pretty much only watch football.

[Rebounder]

Perhaps a little polite communication to KOIN's local advertisers would help step up the pressure a little bit on New Vision, letting the advertisers know that a significant number of DirecTV viewers are tuning in elsewhere and not seeing their ads due to New Vision's unwillingness to carry an HD signal from DirecTV . I certainly watch as little KOIN as possible nowadays due to the lack of an HD signal. Surely KGW's switch to HD local news content will cause a further erosion of KOIN's viewer base. It may not be huge, but the HD market is growing every day.

[chuck5395]

Another week goes by and still no KOIN HD. Looks like I will be changing over from the CSI franchise to the L&O franchise.

[marvod]

I guess the good news in all of this is, with the writers strike still on and football over, KOIN/CBS is not that important anymore.

In all fairness I should mention that I do get KOIN with an antenna and amp but only on one TV due to cabling issues. That being said, it is a pain in the ass that they are not on the sat yet.

[pg2724]

My Reply from Chris
I email every two to three weeks, Please do the same his email addy is
"Chris Sehring" <CSehring@koin.com>


Thanks for the email, Paul.

New Vision is working hard with DirecTV to resolve these issues (which,
as you may suspect, were inherited from the prior owner and involve
other TV markets and issues beyond Portland).

I will continue to push for some sort of resolution with New Vision. I
might also suggest that you contact DirecTV as well -- this is not just
a "one sided story."

I am sorry for your frustration. I will keep pushing.

Thank you for your thoughts.

Chris Sehring

[cdizzy]

Errrrrr......Get it done already!

[chuck5395]

Really. The longer this goes on the more it aggregates me. Enough already!

[burnside]

I would like to watch march madness in HD... oh well.

[woj027]

It seems things are improving, Here is my latest response from Chris at KOIN (Sunday 2/3/08 at 11 am)

"I know that this topic is being addressed by our corporate staff this
week.

As I may have indicated before, we "inherited" a situation that involves
a number of other TV markets. My sense is that both our company and
DirecTV need to find ways to "yes" ASAP!

We will get this done! I am sorry for the delay!

Chris"

Maybe by March Madness?

[cdizzy]

It seems things are improving, Here is my latest response from Chris at KOIN (Sunday 2/3/08 at 11 am)

"I know that this topic is being addressed by our corporate staff this
week.

As I may have indicated before, we "inherited" a situation that involves
a number of other TV markets. My sense is that both our company and
DirecTV need to find ways to "yes" ASAP!

We will get this done! I am sorry for the delay!

Chris"

Maybe by March Madness?

Sounds good but I will believe it when I see it. Having it before March Madness would be great!

[woj027]

I know, the reply sounds very political. Hopefully.

Get me KOIN and Comcast Sports Northwest and it will be a good year.

[BubblePuppy]

I do miss KOINHD since switching to D* from Comcost this week as I can not get it OTA.

[1948GG]

I do miss KOINHD since switching to D* from Comcost this week as I can not get it OTA.

Really, you must have the world's worst antenna, as ALL the Portland broadcast towers are literally visable (optically, not to mention RF wise) probably right out your back door in Beaverton, as they're all at the top of the 'west hills' on Skyline. I grew up in Tigard/Lake Oswego, my first 'real' job was in Beaverton, and I've done bits of work over the years with several of the 'local' stations there.

[BubblePuppy]

Really, you must have the world's worst antenna, as ALL the Portland broadcast towers are literally visable (optically, not to mention RF wise) probably right out your back door in Beaverton, as they're all at the top of the 'west hills' on Skyline. I grew up in Tigard/Lake Oswego, my first 'real' job was in Beaverton, and I've done bits of work over the years with several of the 'local' stations there.

You are probably correct about my antenna..it's a Terk tv55. I have it indoors.
I just might make a trip Radio Shack today and see what they recommend.

[woj027]

I live in Hawthorne, and picked up an "HD" antenna at Fred Meyer for $10 and I get signal strengths in the high 70's low 80's. its a simple rabbit ear antenna i put behind the set (like the old days) and hook it directly to my HR20 (no OTA on the HR21). Then I can DVR shows as well.

[BubblePuppy]

Freddys here I come. What model did you get?

[cmziggy]

You are probably correct about my antenna..it's a Terk tv55. I have it indoors.
I just might make a trip Radio Shack today and see what they recommend.

I had the TV55 and hated it. I went for the TERK HDTVi indoor antenna. I live out here in Vancouver, east side just on the other side of 162nd. Works great! just need to point it to portland. :)

[cosmos503]

Thanks to this thread, I have also been emailing Chris @ KOIN urging them to finalize contract discussions. I have also contacted DirecTV via email and phone to do the same.

Its also very annoying that D* doesn't carry OPB in HD in this area either. Hopefully that will change in 2008. I have warned D* that if it doesn't, they are going to have an extremely angry customer on their hands.

I recently switched to HDTV and stuck with D*, as I had never had any problems with them or their service. Lately, though, I've been fairly non-plussed at how I've been treated during the switch. Up front they wanted me to pay $300 for the HD DVR and I did not receive all local channels in HD. I could have easily gone with Comcast or Dish Network and received both free equipment AND CBS/PBS in HD. Eventually they gave me an enormous discount on the equipment to appease me. However, I am still upset that they can't even offer me all the local channels in HD that my friends on other services have.

I currently live out in West Linn and have tried an OTA antenna, but to no avail. Unfortunately the large hill behind us blocks everything from the West Hills. For me, right now, there is nothing to do but sit and wait - which is really unfortunate.

I hope that New Vision & D* can get these contract discussions finalized and get the feed rolling!

[woj027]

I do not know the model number off hand (at work now) but they had three or four "HD" or "Digital" antennas and I bought the $9.99 (or $14.99) cheap one. I will check when I get home. Remember I'm over in Hawthorne getting High 70's low 80's

[BubblePuppy]

I do not know the model number off hand (at work now) but they had three or four "HD" or "Digital" antennas and I bought the $9.99 (or $14.99) cheap one. I will check when I get home. Remember I'm over in Hawthorne getting High 70's low 80's

I went to Fredys and bought the $10 one. The manager there said it should work fine. Well it didn't ..I did receive some of the channels but they were all broken up. So I returned it and bought the $40 one that has a 50db gain.
This new isn't doing any better. I think it has something to do with this building.
I have plugged it into both my tv and the HR20. I get a picure but it is very pixilated. :( I think I'm going to return it tomorrow.

[woj027]

Sorry to hear about the bad reception. the reception is definitely directional, If I turn my antenna just a few degrees reception decreases dramatically.

You could drop a big chunk of change and get an attic antenna.

[cdizzy]

I live in Hawthorne, and picked up an "HD" antenna at Fred Meyer for $10 and I get signal strengths in the high 70's low 80's. its a simple rabbit ear antenna i put behind the set (like the old days) and hook it directly to my HR20 (no OTA on the HR21). Then I can DVR shows as well.


I'm in the same boat. I live in Beaverton though. I can get 50-70 signal strength with the antenna behind the TV. For the most part it works but it does have an occasional break up.

I tried to record with it once and lost half the show. I don't know if it had a break up and just ended the recording or what but only half was available to replay. So I just record the SD feed now. :(

[budd1e_lee]

I had the TV55 and hated it. I went for the TERK HDTVi indoor antenna. I live out here in Vancouver, east side just on the other side of 162nd. Works great! just need to point it to portland. :)

I use the TV55 here in Vancouver(I-205 and Mill Plain) and get high 70's to low 80's ony my HR20 and my TivoHD

[chuck5395]

Sigh, another Wednesday passes with no KOIN in HD.

[Eksynyt]

This issue had better get resolved before March Madness, I am sick of being the largest market with no CBS HD. What's stupid is I can't watch whatever local game in being shown in HD. I HAVE to watch the crappy SD feed and it usually gets cut away from so I can't tune to the game on the MMM channel if I want to watch it there. It is a lose/lose situation.

[Doug T.]

This issue had better get resolved before March Madness, I am sick of being the largest market with no CBS HD. What's stupid is I can't watch whatever local game in being shown in HD. I HAVE to watch the crappy SD feed and it usually gets cut away from so I can't tune to the game on the MMM channel if I want to watch it there. It is a lose/lose situation.

I have been with Direct since 2002 and before that 1997-99 in Denver. I am almost embarrassed to tell people I have DirecTV. They say, oh that is the service with no CBS HD or Comcastsportsnet Northwest. Meaning no BLAZER games. Direct is testing my patience now. I will hold on a little longer but not to long. Comcast seems to be getting closer to my TV everyday. Come on DIRECT-Get your act together and add KOIN and CSN NW. If the Lakers were on a new channel in LA you no darn well Direct would be the first to sign a distribution agreement. Quit hoding little Portland/Vancouver WA subs hostage. Let's get together and picket KOIN, Blazers, and Comcast. Lets take to the streests.

[convem24]

I have been with Direct since 2002 and before that 1997-99 in Denver. I am almost embarrassed to tell people I have DirecTV. They say, oh that is the service with no CBS HD or Comcastsportsnet Northwest. Meaning no BLAZER games. Direct is testing my patience now. I will hold on a little longer but not to long. Comcast seems to be getting closer to my TV everyday. Come on DIRECT-Get your act together and add KOIN and CSN NW. If the Lakers were on a new channel in LA you no darn well Direct would be the first to sign a distribution agreement. Quit hoding little Portland/Vancouver WA subs hostage. Let's get together and picket KOIN, Blazers, and Comcast. Lets take to the streests.

It is a bad situation for you folks in Portland. I think on the KOIN issue the FCC has a cool off period for carriage becuase KOIN changed ownership. It sounds like Directv is trying to get KOIN. Comcast Sports NW is another issue. I think it is coming down to money. FSN NW which asks for about $1 per sub where Comcast is asking for $2 per sub which is very expensive. Plus Comcast is notorious for trying to shut out competitors by pricing products to be too expensive. It is a tough issue. I careless about NBA anymore so if I ever move back to Portland area I only need my major locals, Comcast sports net means nothing to me but the Blazers are the only major sports team in town so it is a tough situation.

[ajc68]

If the Lakers were on a new channel in LA you no darn well Direct would be the first to sign a distribution agreement. Quit hoding little Portland/Vancouver WA subs hostage. Let's get together and picket KOIN, Blazers, and Comcast. Lets take to the streests.

Well, the Lakers and Dodgers broadcast about half their games on KCAL9, and independent Los Angeles station owned by CBS. They went HD right before the start of basketball season last year. D* just added the HD feed over the holidays, over a year later. Dodgers and Lakers fans were stuck watching last years entire season in SD, and the beginning of this Lakers season as well. Now keep in mind that DIRECTV is from El Segundo, a suburb of Los Angeles. They didn't even take care of their own in the 2nd largest market in a timely manner. In their defense, they may not have had the bandwitdth until D10 was launched, but they still took their time getting it up and running. That could have been due to negotiations. Who knows?

I have a hunch KOIN HD will be done soon, perhaps when D* launches the new satellite next month (although it could take a couple of months after that). As far as CSNNW, I don't see them getting a deal done until Oden comes back. Perhaps not even then! As an Oregon Ducks fan, I hope they have this settled by football season, but they probably won't. I have absolutely no faith in CSNNW to get a deal done. They've already proven they don't care about the customer, just their bottom line. The Blazers sold their soul and the fans are stuck with a bad deal for the next decade. Hopefully, the Ducks only signed a one-year deal so they can move on if a deal isn't reached.

[Eksynyt]

I don't think the CSNNW deal will ever get done sadly.

[convem24]

I don't think the CSNNW deal will ever get done sadly.

The CSNNW deal will happen but it is similar to what is happening with Comcast and Big Ten Network. It all comes down to money. I would believe that Comcast has about 1/2 of the possible subscribers in the state with their subs and FIOS subs in Portland. They are losing out on all the other cable companies, D* and E* subs. They need additional revenue since this undertaking of starting another RNS in the Northwest did not come cheap. That deal will get done but it may take a while depending on if Oden plays next year.

[woj027]

Could it be near the end?

Quote from a KOIN rep

"I understand that an updated agreement has been submitted to DirecTV (so it is in their corner)."

[cdizzy]

Could it be near the end?

Quote from a KOIN rep

"I understand that an updated agreement has been submitted to DirecTV (so it is in their corner)."

Well if that's true, then I'm one happy camper.

We are the largest DMA without the big 4 in HD. It's time!

I can care less about another national channel at this point.

[chuck5395]

Well if that's true, then I'm one happy camper.

+1

[marcmec]

I will hold on a little longer but not to long. Comcast seems to be getting closer to my TV everyday.

While I feel your pain I've got to tell you that a switch to Comcast for KOIN in HD will only fuel your frustration. Up until about a month ago I had DirecTV and Comcast, having Comcast solely for the purpose of getting CBS in HD. I dumped it after watching yet another football game with bad video dropouts/skipping/stuttering and pixelation. Comcast's product has been sub-par for a long time, and I finally decided that I would rather watch in SD than pay for such a crappy product. Subsequently, I don't watch as much CBS content as I might if it were available in HD. There's just too much other HD content out there. CBS loses as do KOIN's advertising customers. You would think that they would figure it out...

[tuckerdog]

Amen brother!!

[ajc68]

Wouldn't you know it, Portland was just voted the city least ready for the digital conversion in 2009. Add to that if you like that you can't get KOIN in HD on Satellite, Wheel of Fortune and Jeapordy in HD on KATU, nor Comcast SportsNet Northwest in most of the state or on Satellite. Portland just can't seem to get out of the minor leagues.

http://www.bizjournals.com/portland/stories/2008/02/18/daily6.html?f=et75&ana=e_du

With just one year to go before all major over-the-airwaves television broadcasts in the United States switch to digital signals, 22.4 percent of all homes in the Portland area aren't ready for the conversion to all-digital TV, according to new study by The Nielsen Co.

That puts Portland dead last for preparedness, in a ranking of 56 U.S. markets.

[Dusty]

Wouldn't you know it, Portland was just voted the city least ready for the digital conversion in 2009. Add to that if you like that you can't get KOIN in HD on Satellite, Wheel of Fortune and Jeapordy in HD on KATU, nor Comcast SportsNet Northwest in most of the state or on Satellite. Portland just can't seem to get out of the minor leagues.

http://www.bizjournals.com/portland/stories/2008/02/18/daily6.html?f=et75&ana=e_du

With just one year to go before all major over-the-airwaves television broadcasts in the United States switch to digital signals, 22.4 percent of all homes in the Portland area aren't ready for the conversion to all-digital TV, according to new study by The Nielsen Co.

That puts Portland dead last for preparedness, in a ranking of 56 U.S. markets.

Portland was not "voted" to be the least digital ready. Portland was found to be that by Nielsen's study.

Although I have no intention to defend your minor league label, this study is about the readiness of the households, not the TV stations. You might be surprised, Portland was among the first three cities to have all TV stations broadcasting digital signals in 1999. The minor league label only bites us when our priority is lost among national interest as in this case, D* probably didn't feel too much urgency to address the issues for #23 DMA. For most other time, I kind of enjoy the advantage of living in a "minor league" city.

Portland has very tight urban growth boundary rules that confines the urban sprawl. As a result, most metropolitan areas are within reasonable reach of OTA signals. I don't know if this study really shows Portland has more analog TV sets than other 55 cities or Portlanders were less reliant on cable and satellite.

[ajc68]

Woops! I forgot how touchy people are in the Northwest at this time of year. I'm an Oregon native and my parents are lifelong residents. I realize the article has nothing to do with KOIN, KATU, or CSNNW and noted that in my post. My minor league label comes from my frustrations that have built over the years. Tape delayed Monday Night Football going back to the day… and more recently, KOIN not being on D* and now KOIN HD not being on D*. KATU doesn’t have the digital capacity to show WOF & Jeopardy in HD. And then there’s whole CSNNW issue, which not only affects the Blazers fans but the Ducks fans too. My comments were not directed at the residents, rather the powers that be.

[woj027]

I've been firing off emails on two of these big subjects (KOIN HD and Blazers on D*) to the KOIN, the Blazers, CSN-NW, and D* the best news I've heard is from KOIN that the ball is in D* Court.

As for the CSN-NW and the Blazers, still same boat, no one accomplishing anything. DirecTV and CSN-NW "negotiating" with the Blazers on the outside looking in (with their pockets stuffed with CSN-NW cash)

[chuck5395]

I've been firing off emails on two of these big subjects (KOIN HD and Blazers on D*) to the KOIN, the Blazers, CSN-NW, and D* the best news I've heard is from KOIN that the ball is in D* Court.


woj027,
Have you heard anything back from DirecTV on the KOIN HD issue? I see where KOIN has told you that it is in DirecTV's hands but was wondering if you have heard anything from the DirecTV side (they are, after all, the ones we pay money to).

[woj027]

Nothing from DirecTV. I email and get automated CSR responses. No good info yet. Sorry.

[BubblePuppy]

Hmm...I was thinking that if we all KOIN-ites come up with and sign some sort of petition that that might put a fire up D*'s hiney.

[cosmos503]

I'd sign the petition...

[tuckerdog]

I wonder if the phrase "the ball is now in D's court" means that KOIN has signed off on D's offer and is waiting for D* to arrange signal transmission, or simply means that KOIN has submitted a new contract proposal and is waiting for D* to accept or reject it

The phrase could mean KOIN HD transmission is imminent, or simply the negotiation process continues.

[Jeremy517]

I wonder if the phrase "the ball is now in D's court" means that KOIN has signed off on D's offer and is waiting for D* to arrange signal transmission, or simply means that KOIN has submitted a new contract proposal and is waiting for D* to accept or reject it


It sounds like the latter.

[tuckerdog]

Sadly, you are probably correct.

Maybe by next Football season!!

[chuck5395]

Another week with more HD LIL's, but no KOIN-HD.
Sigh...

[cdizzy]

Yep, getting frustrating. Seattle gets MyNetworkTV and we can't get CBS. Wow.

[tuckerdog]

It truly sucks!!

I am not privy to the negotiations, however since the other locals have come to an agreement with D*, my feeling is that much of the blame lies with KOIN. I had hoped the new ownership would mean a quick resolution of whatever issues remained, but we have now gone a long enough time from the change to believe that my hopes will be realized soon

I would love to proven wrong!!

Time to e-mail KOIN again

Michael

[Goldlexus]

It truly sucks!!

I am not privy to the negotiations, however since the other locals have come to an agreement with D*, my feeling is that much of the blame lies with KOIN. I had hoped the new ownership would mean a quick resolution of whatever issues remained, but we have now gone a long enough time from the change to believe that my hopes will be realized soon

I would love to proven wrong!!

Time to e-mail KOIN again

Michael

I don't know about that. Comcast AND Dish have KOIN in HD in the Portland area. It appears that Directv could be the problem. Just sayin'

[FlyinV]

Every Wednesday I rush online to see if KOIN or Comcast Sportsnet NW has been added....

Another Wednesday with the same results :(

[ajc68]

KOIN and D* have always had a problem due to the previous owner of KOIN being a competitor of the owner of D* Remember how long it also took KOIN SD to be carried by D*? That's why everybody has been so optimistic now that KOIN is under new ownership. This is mostly on KOIN to get it done and it sounds like they are actually trying now.

[questcam]

The problem has to be with D*. Comcast, Dish and even Fios have KOIN in HD. As 10 year + customer of D*, I am getting pissed we do not have this by now.

[ajc68]

The problem has to be with D*. Comcast, Dish and even Fios have KOIN in HD. As 10 year + customer of D*, I am getting pissed we do not have this by now.

If only it was that simple... It's not! Do some research to find out more. Now that KOIN has is under new ownership, it does sound like it should free things up to get a deal done. That being said, since the owner of KOIN owns multiple stations, they may be making an all or nothing pitch to D* that would force them to carry all their stations in HD. And D* may not be willing to do that at this time as they may lack the bandwidth. So it may have to wait until D* new satellite is launched and ready for use in late May/June.

[pg2724]

Paul:

Thanks.

I assure you that I am doing all I can to resolve this issue on our
end.

Have you had any luck with DirecTV? This is a multiple-market situation
that involves more than KOIN.

Regardless, I will continue to press hard. Fortunately -- or
unfortunately (depending upon whether we receive the HD OK from DirecTV soon) --
CBS has perhaps the best network sports programming; I want all of our
viewers to be able to enjoy the NCAA Tournament in HD.

Thanks again for your patience.

Chris

[tuckerdog]

A bit disturbing to find out it is "a multi market" problem. I hope this will not turn into a LIN type situation, where local interests come far behind corporate policy.

I know local stations put a lot of importance on their news programs rating. While KATU and KGW have local news in HD, KOIN has not yet come into the 21st century and is still in SD. Hopefully they will go HD soon and that might be an impetus to have their HD signal available to as many homes as possible,translation, come to agreement with D*.

Hope beats eternal.

[cdizzy]

I have emailed DirecTV twice about this matter without a single response. Watching Jericho in SD is killing me. I don't even want to think about having to watch March madness in SD as well.

[harsh]

I hope this will not turn into a LIN type situation, where local interests come far behind corporate policy.This is precisely what Chris is saying.

[pbg]

I have emailed DirecTV twice about this matter without a single response. Watching Jericho in SD is killing me. I don't even want to think about having to watch March madness in SD as well.

It’s a weird situation. It seems with programming such as Mega-March Madness, and the expanded Masters coverage, DirecTV’s relationship with CBS the network is flourishing. Yet they seem to have a hard time with certain affiliates based on ownership. I wish CBS the network could put the screws to all parties somehow.

Seems like the new local chaps are friendly enough - Have you asked them for a waiver? It took me a few cracks, but I got one a couple of years ago from the previous owners. I became pretty motivated prior to the last time CBS had the Superbowl.

[cdizzy]

It’s a weird situation. It seems with programming such as Mega-March Madness, and the expanded Masters coverage, DirecTV’s relationship with CBS the network is flourishing. Yet they seem to have a hard time with certain affiliates based on ownership. I wish CBS the network could put the screws to all parties somehow.

Seems like the new local chaps are friendly enough - Have you asked them for a waiver? It took me a few cracks, but I got one a couple of years ago from the previous owners. I became pretty motivated prior to the last time CBS had the Superbowl.

I've asked for a waiver but was denied. I can receive KOIN-DT with an antenna but I can only use an indoor one as I'm not in a position to put up a multi directional outdoor antenna. With an indoor antenna I can get about 60 percent signal which will give me periodic pixelation and audio loss. I just don't trust it for recording.

[questcam]

If only it was that simple... It's not! Do some research to find out more. Now that KOIN has is under new ownership, it does sound like it should free things up to get a deal done. That being said, since the owner of KOIN owns multiple stations, they may be making an all or nothing pitch to D* that would force them to carry all their stations in HD. And D* may not be willing to do that at this time as they may lack the bandwidth. So it may have to wait until D* new satellite is launched and ready for use in late May/June.

Actually, if you look at the entire thread you will see that I have been following this situation for quite some time. I am aware of the ownership change. I am also aware that the previous owner was able to agree to deals with Comcast, Dish and Verizon. Therefore, I still place more of the blame on D*.

[harsh]

I am also aware that the previous owner was able to agree to deals with Comcast, Dish and Verizon.If you look back, I'm pretty sure that DISH made their agreement with Ennis before all the hubbub started. By dragging their feet, DIRECTV has had to negotiate with at least two, probably three sets of oversight.

[tuckerdog]

You can pick your side and make the facts fit your opinion. Yes KOIN has indeed made HD agreements with Comcast and FIOS, making D* the bad guy. Or you can point out that D* has come to HD agreements with 2, 8 and 12, pointing to KOIN as the culprit.

Bottom line is that we have 2 big corporations arguing over money, who don't give a rip who you are or who you think is the cause of the problem. Wasting my time trying to defend either Corp entity is just that, wasting my time.

I can't "punish" D* since I have too much invested in their service equipment wise to cancel. I suspect KOIN would not like that I watch their station less, but this has significance only if large numbers of viewers take that path and ratings suffer.
Michael

[chuck5395]

So, another Wednesday is coming. Anyone holding out hope that there will be a KOIN-HD announcement?

[Dusty]

So, another Wednesday is coming. Anyone holding out hope that there will be a KOIN-HD announcement?

I never counted on an announcement. KATU was added quietly. I just found it was turned on one day. It wasn't even a Wednesday. Why do you believe this only happens on Wednesday?

As long as they bring it on before next football season, I am alright. I have given up the hope that we will get it before the Masters. Besides sports programs, I have trained myself not to watch CBS. I have no series link on CBS except PGA Golf. When Mountains don't come to Mohammad, Mohammad comes to the Mountains.

[burnside]

I never counted on an announcement. KATU was added quietly. I just found it was turned on one day. It wasn't even a Wednesday. Why do you believe this only happens on Wednesday?

As long as they bring it on before next football season, I am alright. I have given up the hope that we will get it before the Masters. Besides sports programs, I have trained myself not to watch CBS. I have no series link on CBS except PGA Golf. When Mountains don't come to Mohammad, Mohammad comes to the Mountains.

I'm with you. I watch nothing except for football on cbs. My wife even quit watching cbs, said there's nothing great to watch if it's not in hd.

As for March Madness? Yeah, I would have liked to watch it in hd, but I'll settle for March Madness on demand online... get to see any game that way!

I also don't care who's fault this is - directv or koin owners. Both of them have disappointed me on this issue to no end. The loser in the end? CBS! Many of us just won't watch it anymore!

[Doug T.]

I'm with you. I watch nothing except for football on cbs. My wife even quit watching cbs, said there's nothing great to watch if it's not in hd.

As for March Madness? Yeah, I would have liked to watch it in hd, but I'll settle for March Madness on demand online... get to see any game that way!

I also don't care who's fault this is - directv or koin owners. Both of them have disappointed me on this issue to no end. The loser in the end? CBS! Many of us just won't watch it anymore!

DirecTV needs to get their act together and start thinking about their customers. Not having KOIN HD and Comcast NW stinks. One good note on Koin it seems that they have increased their over the air signal. I live in a lower elevation of Vancouver with a roof top antena. My signal strenggth has never been more than 65. Now I am getting 83. I have had an antenna for 2 years. The gods are smiling.

[harsh]

My signal strenggth has never been more than 65. Now I am getting 83.Even with a 63, you should be golden for KOIN (unless you've been cursed with an '21 receiver).

[ajc68]

http://www.tvpredictions.com/dsatellite030608.htm


D* new HD satellite launches on Monday. Once they have the new dish dialed in they are going to really concentrate on completing the locals. I wouldn’t be surprised to see something happen soon.

[harsh]

D* new HD satellite launches on Monday. Once they have the new dish dialed in they are going to really concentrate on completing the locals. I wouldn’t be surprised to see something happen soon.KOIN isn't available because DIRECTV hasn't been able to strike a carriage deal, not because they don't have the capability. DIRECTV could successfully launch D11 and D12 and it wouldn't change the situation.

[1948GG]

Just as an aside to this, was the Portland spot-beam moved from Spaceway1/transponder3 over to D10/transponder 15 or 20? (In the last couple of weeks)

Obviously, I'm not 'in the beam' per se but watched the signal level on the Spaceway1 (was around 80) as a 'clue' as to any alignment issues, just as I do with the Spokane spots (Spaceway2/transponders 1/5).

So, now that the CW-HD station is supposedly 'live', I once again wondered if indeed the locals were moved to the D10 sat. Thanks in Advance!

[burnside]

http://www.tvpredictions.com/dsatellite030608.htm


D* new HD satellite launches on Monday. Once they have the new dish dialed in they are going to really concentrate on completing the locals. I wouldn’t be surprised to see something happen soon.

Just the fact that we got CW in HD today means that this has nothing to do with satellite capacity.

[marvod]

I live down in Canby behind all the hills of Lake O and West Linn and get a signal just fine with an Antenna and amp.

I'm confused why some of you cant get a signal in Beaverton and Vancouver.

I didn't go back and read the whole thread so if you have answered already sorry.

[burnside]

I've never tried an antenna out here. I actually live in Washougal. The thing is, I'm not going to spend money on a new antenna when it's only one channel that I'm trying to get.

[woj027]

We got the CW in HD in Portland? Wow, I can't wait to watch..? ...? uh...

What the heck is on the CW anyway?

I want KOIN HD and CSN-NW

Kaaaaahhhhhhhnnnnnnnnnn!!!!!!!!!!!

[MEJHarrison]

We got the CW in HD in Portland? Wow, I can't wait to watch..? ...? uh...

What the heck is on the CW anyway?


We have the CW? Since when? This is actually good news for me since I watch Supernatural on CW and it's the one channel I have issues with OTA. As soon as it starts raining, I seem to loose it. So that would be great if I could drop the OTA channel and get it from D*. :D

[woj027]

We have the CW? Since when? This is actually good news for me since I watch Supernatural on CW and it's the one channel I have issues with OTA. As soon as it starts raining, I seem to loose it. So that would be great if I could drop the OTA channel and get it from D*. :D

I was reading previous posts saying we have the CW... I don't know if it is true or not.

[pbg]

I was reading previous posts saying we have the CW... I don't know if it is true or not.

It's true - It was lit this AM

[cdizzy]

I haven't been home so I haven't seen it myself but if you go to directv.com and put your zip in to the local channel search, it will say CW is in HD.


Now I'm happy that we've got something but it's not the one I want.

[burnside]

I was watching CW in HD this morning... to bad I haven't found a program they're displaying in HD yet. :(

[Dusty]

I live down in Canby behind all the hills of Lake O and West Linn and get a signal just fine with an Antenna and amp.

I'm confused why some of you cant get a signal in Beaverton and Vancouver.

I didn't go back and read the whole thread so if you have answered already sorry.

I never said I couldn't use an antenna. I use a rabbit ear. It is a struggle try to align it so I can get >60 signal stength between OPB and KOIN. There is only one delicate spot for both to come in reliably. My cleaning ladies sometimes move my spot. I hate it when I only realize it after losing an entire football game.

[ajc68]

Just the fact that we got CW in HD today means that this has nothing to do with satellite capacity.

Yes, that question has been answered now...

[FlyinV]

I now have something different here....

6-3 KOINDT3
and the guide says - Skycam

Anyone know what this is?
I get a 771 when I tune to that channel - Could this have something to do when I once tried to see if I could get KOIN HD over the air but I thought I turned that all off and don't remember seeing this before.

[jviter]

Since I have the HR21 an Antenna does me 100% since I can't record with it, so if I get my waiver denied I will demand a HR20 or a real discount on the AM21 add-on. I also live in Canby, but I want to be able to record on KOIN.

[Jeremy517]

I now have something different here....

6-3 KOINDT3
and the guide says - Skycam

Anyone know what this is?
I get a 771 when I tune to that channel - Could this have something to do when I once tried to see if I could get KOIN HD over the air but I thought I turned that all off and don't remember seeing this before.

It is just what it sounds like. It is a shot from a camera that overlooks the city. That subchannel is worthless, except in March, when it shows out-of-region games.

[marvod]

Since I have the HR21 an Antenna does me 100% since I can't record with it, so if I get my waiver denied I will demand a HR20 or a real discount on the AM21 add-on. I also live in Canby, but I want to be able to record on KOIN.


Sorry, i forgot about the HR21.

[Boleyc]

Hello to the other Canby people here! :)

With the addition of The CW HD, that at least only leaves us lacking CBS. Hope we see it soon.

[pg2724]

Paul:

I wanted you to know that KOIN has reached an impasse with DirecTV. We
have done our best to resolve this situation (as we have with all other
cable and satellite providers that now carry KOIN in HD). We have done
all we can.

Your best bet is to call DirecTV at 1 800 DIRECTV since you are paying
them for the service.

I am sorry. I thought that we could have found some middle ground with
them.

Chris

[jviter]

Paul:

I wanted you to know that KOIN has reached an impasse with DirecTV. We
have done our best to resolve this situation (as we have with all other
cable and satellite providers that now carry KOIN in HD). We have done
all we can.

Your best bet is to call DirecTV at 1 800 DIREy
I am sorry. I thought that we could have found some middle ground with
them.

Chris

Chris,
I am new here, so I don't know what you do or who you work for, but are you saying that there is 0% chance that we will see KOIN via DirecTV? Our best bet is to get it OTA? If that is the case what do use "lucky" few that have a HR21 suppose to do? Since I bet I can get OTA to my TV, but then I lose DVR functionality :(

[Goldlexus]

Chris,
I am new here, so I don't know what you do or who you work for, but are you saying that there is 0% chance that we will see KOIN via DirecTV? Our best bet is to get it OTA? If that is the case what do use "lucky" few that have a HR21 suppose to do? Since I bet I can get OTA to my TV, but then I lose DVR functionality :(

Chris is the Management at Koin. He is the one who has been good enough to answer our emails regarding Directv reboardcasting Koin HD content.

This is NOT good! I knew it was Directv that was the problem. After all Comcast, and Dish offer kOIN in HD. Now what?

[ajc68]

This is NOT good! I knew it was Directv that was the problem. After all Comcast, and Dish offer kOIN in HD. Now what?

That could very well be the case, but why then does D* have deals to carry KATU, KGW, KPTV and KRCW in HD and not KOIN? Remember, there was a problem in the past getting KOIN SD on D* also. There has got to be more to the story here.

[harsh]

There has got to be more to the story here.This is likely a case of bad timing. DISH successfully negotiated before the progression of ownership/management changes began.

1/06 Emmis sells to Montecito
2/06 Comcast closes their deal (more than two years in the making?)
?/?? Montecito hires another company to manage
11/07 Sold to New Vision.

[Goldlexus]

I email Directv to gripe about not having Koin in HD last night. They said the couldn't offer KOIN in HD due to satellite capcity which is a different story than what one poster posted that Chris said in his email. Will we ever get a straight answer?

[tuckerdog]

A pox on both their houses.
You can take the facts and twist them to make KOIN the culprit or D* the heavy. I personally am not going to sit and argue about which anonymous Corp is at fault.
As I have said earlier, my investment in D*, equipment etc, doesn't effectively give me the option to switch providers. This just leaves me watching less of CBS's shows.
Maybe when KOIN News goes HD they will revisit the need to have maximal viewership of their HD signal.
At least we know that the Digital transition date next Feb is the limiting timeframe, since at that time KOIN's digital signal will became prime and fall under the much carry route. Yes I know the digital conversion does not mean always HD, but KOIN's is an HD signal

[cosmos503]

I called D* today. They claim the CBS affiliate is to blame here. They basically said there is nothing they can do if KOIN won't agree. I for one am getting to the point where this situation makes me livid. I am so angry that these companies can't reach an agreement. In the meantime they are pissing off their customers. Unbelievable.

If this is true and KOIN HD is not in our current future, then we need a better way to get our message across to both parties. Something like the Jericho peanut campaign.

Anyone game?

[jviter]

I would be "OK" in a sense, if I could just record OTA, but since I was given a HR21 that isn't an option. So if D* can't get their issue resolved with KOIN then need to come through with the AM21 for me, at least I will be able to get OTA and record it with my "DVR" which I am paying $5.99 a month for.

[pg2724]

Paul:

Again, I am sorry.

It is a more complicated issue than it may seem -- and it did not make
it any easier for us to "inherit this problem" from the prior owners.

As far as a waver goes, I am afraid that we can not grant this type of
request for HD programming. It does not fit the waver guidelines (which
are also frustratingly complicated).

My apologies.

Chris

-----Original Message-----
From: Paul ]
Sent: Friday, March 14, 2008 9:29 AM
To: Chris Sehring
Subject: Re: directv HD

Chris

I think your last statement (But since they charge you
for our free over the air programming, they should be
more receptive to your needs.) is a two way street
Directv is NO ANGEL but KOIN is just as bad, you say
Koin has come to agreement with all the others
Diirectv says we has come to agreement with KGW KATU
FOX 12.Koin wants a cut of the pie for giving there
free over the air programming your words not mind.
Directv says were not paying you that much. Both side
could care less,IT'S a MONEY ISSUE plain and simple.
You could prove me wrong by granting a waver so I
can watch CBS programming. But last week when I asked
for one I never heard from you.Both sides have drawn a
line in the sand and we suffer.
I would like to THANK YOu for listening
Paul

--- Chris Sehring <CSehring@koin.com> wrote:

> I am sorry, Paul. It is unfortunate that we could
> not come to terms with DirecTV as we have with the
> other systems.
>
> Perhaps they will change their minds; our door
> remains open.
> But the ball is definitely is their court now.
>
> I will keep you posted if things change.
>
> Again, my apologies -- but we have done all we can
> from our side. But since they charge you for our
> free over the air programming, they should be more
> receptive to your needs.
>
> Sorry!
>
> Chris

[jviter]

So this leaves use with only 2 choices.

1. Suffer with SD programming
2. Get OTA

1 sucks when we get so much other HD and 2 is only possible if we have an HR20 or H20 AND we can get a good signal. Before I got the HR21 4 weeks ago I could get Koin via an antenna, now that I have the HR21 I can't record it, but I can still watch it. Its better, but why do I have to pay for locals and DVR and then not get to use it. D* should kick in AM21's for users that can get the OTA and have the HR21.

For the users that can't get OTA, we should get a credit.


Jon

[donm]

So this leaves use with only 2 choices.

1. Suffer with SD programming
2. Get OTA

1 sucks when we get so much other HD and 2 is only possible if we have an HR20 or H20 AND we can get a good signal. Before I got the HR21 4 weeks ago I could get Koin via an antenna, now that I have the HR21 I can't record it, but I can still watch it. Its better, but why do I have to pay for locals and DVR and then not get to use it. D* should kick in AM21's for users that can get the OTA and have the HR21.

For the users that can't get OTA, we should get a credit.


Jon

I have one more choice and that is not watching anymore KOIN programming. They do have 2-3 shows I really like but I refuse to watch in non-HD. I also have one more option which is to change back to Dish but I think I have a little over a 1 year contract left with Directv.

I do think it is both Directv and KOIN causing the problem but unless Directv is offering less to KOIN then any of the other channels they pay for carrying their HD then it is more of a KOIN problem. There are very few other channels around the country that haven't taken Directv's offer.

[FlyinV]

If KOIN cares -- I also refuse to watch the channel until they get it on Directv in HD. While D* may be a stick in the mud on certain things, I still suspect we are not getting the real story from KOIN about this.

I would believe there is a space crunch and D* can't add it right now but it sure feels like KOIN is the bad guy asking for something unfair.

But thats not what KOIN says...... there reply is vague on why there is a problem.

[66stang351]

The line where he states "But since they charge you for our free over the air programming, they should be more receptive to your needs." is complete BS. DIRECTV takes $2 a month off if they don't carry locals in an area. That can't even cover the cost of capturing the OTA signals let alone backhauling them and uplinking them to us. DIRECTV isn't making money off of the locals. If I were you, my reponse to him would be DIRECTV doesn't charge me for locals, and I don't pay them for locals. What DIRECTV charges me for is the convinience of having my local channels integrated into my viewing experience. This means they have to capture your signal and backhaul it to a central location then uplink it to the sattellite. Then they also integrate it into my guide seemlessly. I know that it costs them more than the $2 they are charging me to do all this. They provide this service for two reasons, 1)In some cases they are required by law to do so. 2)It helps them to gain and retain subscribers . It is also a benefit to the local station by gaining them veiwership. Basically it boils down to gaining veiwership. Both DIRECTV and your station stand to gain veiwership by adding the channel to DIRECTVs service. Your station more so than DIRECTV as they already serve a large number of viewers in your DMA. So you at the local station stand to gain more from the partnership. Obviously DIRECTV understands this and is unwilling to waste money for little to no gain for them.If you feel that quote in full or part is worth sending feel free to do so.Paul:

Again, I am sorry.

It is a more complicated issue than it may seem -- and it did not make
it any easier for us to "inherit this problem" from the prior owners.

As far as a waver goes, I am afraid that we can not grant this type of
request for HD programming. It does not fit the waver guidelines (which
are also frustratingly complicated).

My apologies.

Chris

-----Original Message-----
From: Paul ]
Sent: Friday, March 14, 2008 9:29 AM
To: Chris Sehring
Subject: Re: directv HD

Chris

I think your last statement (But since they charge you
for our free over the air programming, they should be
more receptive to your needs.) is a two way street
Directv is NO ANGEL but KOIN is just as bad, you say
Koin has come to agreement with all the others
Diirectv says we has come to agreement with KGW KATU
FOX 12.Koin wants a cut of the pie for giving there
free over the air programming your words not mind.
Directv says were not paying you that much. Both side
could care less,IT'S a MONEY ISSUE plain and simple.
You could prove me wrong by granting a waver so I
can watch CBS programming. But last week when I asked
for one I never heard from you.Both sides have drawn a
line in the sand and we suffer.
I would like to THANK YOu for listening
Paul

--- Chris Sehring <CSehring@koin.com> wrote:

> I am sorry, Paul. It is unfortunate that we could
> not come to terms with DirecTV as we have with the
> other systems.
>
> Perhaps they will change their minds; our door
> remains open.
> But the ball is definitely is their court now.
>
> I will keep you posted if things change.
>
> Again, my apologies -- but we have done all we can
> from our side. But since they charge you for our
> free over the air programming, they should be more
> receptive to your needs.
>
> Sorry!
>
> Chris

[pg2724]

Because I was the one that posted Chris's email to me, I will give you my take
First I have emailed Chris about a dozen times and he has reply to me all but once
I for one think that shows he is a first class guy, try writing a station manager and getting a reply, so I do think he cares. That being said I do think Koin is party of the problem but I also think D is part of the problem too. It's two companies that have drawn a line in the sand and really could care less if we (you and I) get to watch HD
We are a fair size market (Portland Or) but in the big picture we are very small. I do beleave Chris when he said (and it did not make it any easier for us to "inherit this problem" from the prior owners) Bottom line is we have to wait and HOPE :mad: :mad:
Paul

[pbg]

This may sound like a stupid question, but I’m going to ask it anyway. Hopefully someone who really knows, could answer it as opposed to all the rest of us know it alls!

With these carriage agreements with OTA channels, does DirecTV really pay the stations? Not RSNs, or other non-OTA stations. Just the OTA’s

It’s sounds strange, but I wouldn’t be totally shocked if the problem is KOIN is asking for some compensation, and DirecTV doesn’t want to pay anything and just wants to retransmit what is already ‘free’.

I’m pretty sure that a lot of agreements between Cable companies and local stations are similar to this model.

Does anyone really know how these agreements are set up?

[donm]

This may sound like a stupid question, but I’m going to ask it anyway. Hopefully someone who really knows, could answer it as opposed to all the rest of us know it alls!

With these carriage agreements with OTA channels, does DirecTV really pay the stations? Not RSNs, or other non-OTA stations. Just the OTA’s

It’s sounds strange, but I wouldn’t be totally shocked if the problem is KOIN is asking for some compensation, and DirecTV doesn’t want to pay anything and just wants to retransmit what is already ‘free’.

I’m pretty sure that a lot of agreements between Cable companies and local stations are similar to this model.

Does anyone really know how these agreements are set up?

Directv and Dish both have to pay the networks for their carriage. It is suppose to be a reasonable amount. I'm not sure the exact amount they pay most networks but even if it is small per subscriber it adds up to extra money for the networks. Plus it helps the networks get more money for the Ads having more viewers. Some networks think they have something very valuable for Directv and ask for a lot of money per subscriber. That is what happen with the original Koin owners and I'm hoping that isn't the current problem. Maybe Directv now doesn't even want to pay the going rate for carriage but I think that isn't the problem. So, IMO it still has to be Koin asking for more money then the going rate.

[marvod]

If you really want to hit them where they live, someone needs to make a list of local advertisers on KOIN and start letting them know that you will no longer frequent them or use their products as long and you cannot see their advertisements on KOIN.

I work for a local radio station in Portland and let me tell you nothing scares a broadcast company like pissed off advertisers.

Mark

[ajc68]

Looks like KOIN HD will be on Directv in 2013.

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6543480.html?desc=topstory

Instead, the FCC decided to give DirecTV and EchoStar until 2013 to carry all stations in HD within any market where they have elected to carry any station's signal in HD format.

[cdizzy]

Haha. Right around the corner!

[Doug T.]

Haha. Right around the corner!

today during NCAA basketball on Koin SD Koin 6 put a scroll on the bottom of the screen telling DirecTV subs to call Direct and ask for KOIN in HD. It gave the phone number to direcTV. It was on the screen for about one minute in the earlyy afternoon. :(

[TBoneit]

Directv and Dish both have to pay the networks for their carriage. It is suppose to be a reasonable amount. I'm not sure the exact amount they pay most networks but even if it is small per subscriber it adds up to extra money for the networks. Plus it helps the networks get more money for the Ads having more viewers. Some networks think they have something very valuable for Directv and ask for a lot of money per subscriber. That is what happen with the original Koin owners and I'm hoping that isn't the current problem. Maybe Directv now doesn't even want to pay the going rate for carriage but I think that isn't the problem. So, IMO it still has to be Koin asking for more money then the going rate.

I may be wrong but the way I remember it is that a station can ask to be paid to be carried or ask for must carry and be carried for free.

Thus a CBS station would ask for compensation to be carried a OTA shopping channel would ask for must carry as they know D* or E* would never pay to carry them. If they ask to be paid then as I understand it they cannot turn around and ask for must carry status.

Cheers

[woj027]

I don't know the rules for carriage. but I'm certian I 've read here on DBSTalk several times that shopping channels pay DirecTV to be on the air.

[TBoneit]

Shopping channels probably do pay however those would be channels like QVC with a national feed. For OTA shopping channels it would be different.

some history. "in the fall of 1986, WWHT and WSNL were sold to the Home Shopping Network and became WHSE and WHSI, airing the HSN format full-time for the next sixteen years"

For those sixteen years they would have needed to use must carry status to get on cable and Satllite TV.

[cosmos503]

today during NCAA basketball on Koin SD Koin 6 put a scroll on the bottom of the screen telling DirecTV subs to call Direct and ask for KOIN in HD. It gave the phone number to direcTV. It was on the screen for about one minute in the earlyy afternoon. :(

Anyone happen to write this number down?

Every time I call the main number or email them from the web site, I get a canned response that they don't offer that channel in HD and the conversation pretty much ends there.

Slightly Off Topic: Any of you other D* Portland customers notice that the KGW HD news broadcasts are off a/v sync? I have also noticed that Saturday Night Live is also pretty far out of sync - for 4 weeks running now. Anyone else notice this too? Other programming seems to be fine, or at least correctable with exiting, pausing, rewinding, etc. I'm using the HR21-700. So far D* has been unresponsive about this, and I've sent an email to KGW as well. Just curious to know if I'm the only one or not.

[jviter]

I have the same issue with KGW with my HR21-700. They told me a few weeks back that it was a know issue and they were working on it. That was from the Tech team.


Jon

[chuck5395]

today during NCAA basketball on Koin SD Koin 6 put a scroll on the bottom of the screen telling DirecTV subs to call Direct and ask for KOIN in HD. It gave the phone number to direcTV. It was on the screen for about one minute in the earlyy afternoon. :(

Post the number. I'll call (early and often)!!!

[cosmos503]

They are scrolling the message again today during the NCAA Men's Tournament. It says to call 1-800-DIRECTV and request KOIN in HD.

I just called and the CSR says he submitted a note with the request. He also mentioned that this is probably KOIN's attempt to resolve a contract dispute, and that he hoped it would work for D* customers in Portland to get CBS in HD.

Start your dial tones...

[Rebounder]

Yes, we have two corporations each looking for out for its own financial interest. Can't blame them for that.

BUT, I can't help but believe that KOIN is the most intransigent here. DirecTV has come to terms with hundreds (?) of local stations to carry their HD signal. Surely they've offered something similar to KOIN, commensurate with their market share and size. And yet KOIN won't accept it. Who knows, but I'm giving the benefit of the doubt to DirecTV here. I have a business that does advertise on local TV. It's not a huge amount....less than $25K a year, but right now it's all on KGW and I won't even consider spending any of that money at KOIN as long as this situation continues.

[harsh]

New Vision Television has 11 stations representing 15 affiliations that it has acquired since October 2006. They own three of the big four and the MYTV in Youngstown, OH (ABC, CBS, NBC) (I didn't know this was allowed). Portland (#23) is their largest market by quite a margin.

Their Birmingham (#40) CBS station is carried.

Their Honolulu (#73) Fox is carried but their CW is a subchannel.

Their Wichita (#69) NBC is a lone hold-out in the big four.

The rest are pretty small markets: Mason City, IA (#153), Youngstown, OH (#106), Topeka, KS (#139) and Savannah, GA (#97).

If someone has more time than I do, perhaps a pattern of whether the station was added before or after acquisition could be established. The New Vision Television website is at http://www.newvisiontv.com.

[tuckerdog]

Maybe Directv should flash a message across the bottom of the picture on PO6 and ask viewers to call KOIN and ask the station why they won't agree to a carriage agreement.
What is good for the Goose is good for the Gander!

[Goldlexus]

They are scrolling the message again today during the NCAA Men's Tournament. It says to call 1-800-DIRECTV and request KOIN in HD.

I just called and the CSR says he submitted a note with the request. He also mentioned that this is probably KOIN's attempt to resolve a contract dispute, and that he hoped it would work for D* customers in Portland to get CBS in HD.

Start your dial tones...

KOIN even has an ad on their web page that urges DirecTV users who want KOIN in HD to call 1-800-DIRECTV.

[questcam]

Yes, we have two corporations each looking for out for its own financial interest. Can't blame them for that.

BUT, I can't help but believe that KOIN is the most intransigent here. DirecTV has come to terms with hundreds (?) of local stations to carry their HD signal. Surely they've offered something similar to KOIN, commensurate with their market share and size. And yet KOIN won't accept it. Who knows, but I'm giving the benefit of the doubt to DirecTV here. I have a business that does advertise on local TV. It's not a huge amount....less than $25K a year, but right now it's all on KGW and I won't even consider spending any of that money at KOIN as long as this situation continues.

The way I look at it, KOIN management (I know they have new ownership now)had successfully negotiated HD deals with Comcast, DISH and Verizon Fios. Therefore, I place the blame on Directv. I am a 10 year subscriber to Directv but am very upset they are the only provider who does not have KOIN in HD. I just keep hammering DTV with emails and calls.

[Rebounder]

The way I look at it, KOIN management (I know they have new ownership now)had successfully negotiated HD deals with Comcast, DISH and Verizon Fios. Therefore, I place the blame on Directv. I am a 10 year subscriber to Directv but am very upset they are the only provider who does not have KOIN in HD. I just keep hammering DTV with emails and calls.

Regardless of whether DirecTV or KOIN is more at fault in this situation, I hope KOIN realizes that there are probably a lot more viewers who simply choose not to tune in to KOIN than are willing to take the step of ditching DirecTV in favor of Dish/cable/FIOS. Only those with HD equipment are going to care about this situation, and given DirecTV's huge HD advantage over Dish and cable, I would think that not many subscribers are going to jump ship from DirecTV over this issue. Ultimately it would seem KOIN has more to lose.

I didn't see the "Call DirecTV to complain" banners running on KOIN during basketball, but that tells me that KOIN is taking a lot of viewer complaints about this.

[tuckerdog]

Questcam
Your argument makes perfect sense. However, the opposite argument makes equal sense. That is that since DirecTV has reached HD carriage agreements with 2,8,12 and 32, as well with the majority of other out of area local stations, that KOIN must be the problem

Bottom line, no one not privy to the negotiations can be sure if the problem lies with KOIN or DirecTV or is shared.

[Goldlexus]

KOIN and Directv have a history of 'impasses', regardless of the ownership. All hope isn't lost. I am sure some day they will strike a deal just as they did years ago with offering Locals over satellite. KOIN (or Directv) was a hold out than too.
The fact that they are not offering KOIN HD shows they (both sides) are still up to their old games and now it is just plane annoying.

[questcam]

Another Final Four and surely another Masters without KOIN in HD! Come on, get this settled.

[Eksynyt]

I doubt we see KOIN in HD before 2013

[harsh]

I doubt we see KOIN in HD before 2013You can if you switch to any other source of local programming.

[BubblePuppy]

I talked to DTV yesterday to apply for a waiver to recieve CBSWH since I cannot receive KOIN HD OTA. I only live about 8 miles from the ant. (Beaverton) but apprently my apt. is too low to receive the signals via my indoor ant. I can receive othe stations but not KOIN.
DTV is going to submit the waiver but I would like to talk to someone at the station about granting the waiver. Anyone know who that is?

[BubblePuppy]

I talked to DTV yesterday to apply for a waiver to recieve CBSWH since I cannot receive KOIN HD OTA. I only live about 8 miles from the ant. (Beaverton) but apprently my apt. is too low to receive the signals via my indoor ant. I can receive othe stations but not KOIN.
DTV is going to submit the waiver but I would like to talk to someone at the station about granting the waiver. Anyone know who that is?

Well I just got off the phone with Lee Wood of Koin and:
1) I will not be granted waiver 2) DTV has stopped talking to the Corporate owners of KOIN -Lee does not know why 3) He recommended I try the Silver Sensor Ant.

So there you go.

[cdizzy]

Wow, unreal.

I've almost given up on this.

[BubblePuppy]

Wow, unreal.

I've almost given up on this.

Well considering that DTV has stopped talking to the KOIN owners I would start looking for a big-ass antenna....;)

[jviter]

And an AM21 if you don't have the HR20 :(

[pbg]

Well I just got off the phone with Lee Wood of Koin and:
1) I will not be granted waiver 2) DTV has stopped talking to the Corporate owners of KOIN -Lee does not know why 3) He recommended I try the Silver Sensor Ant.

So there you go.

Did he explain why you weren’t granted a waiver? Should you actually be able to receive it OTA, or are they just using you as leverage against DirectTV?

[BubblePuppy]

Did he explain why you weren’t granted a waiver? Should you actually be able to receive it OTA, or are they just using you as leverage against DirectTV?

He said I won't get a waiver because I live in the Metro area and and with a outdoor ant. I can recieve KOIN. According to the FCC if I can not recieve the station with an outdoor ant. then I would get a waiver. Indoor ant. do not count.

[Eksynyt]

Like I said, I am convinced DirecTV may never get KOIN in HD until 2013 when KOIN will be required to put it on D*.

[pbg]

Another Final Four and surely another Masters without KOIN in HD! Come on, get this settled.

But.... at least there's the DirecTV Master's coverage. I think one of the channels is the actual ESPN or CBS feed.

http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/contentPageNR.jsp?assetId=P4550060

[woj027]

I write to both DirecTV and KOIN every week or so and get the same canned responses where they point the finger at each other.

DirecTV - through about 6 different CSR's
"Unfortunately, we are unable to discuss any details that are involved with adding any local market stations. Please know that DIRECTV management is aware of your concern and that we are doing everything possible to get CBS (KOIN) on air as quickly as possible."

KOIN - from the same person time and time again
"Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, KOIN has now reached an impasse
with DirecTV. Consequently, we respectfully encourage you to contact
DirecTV at 1-800-DIRECTV and request that they follow the lead of other
cable and satellite companies in providing KOIN's CBS HD programming to
their customers. If this is not regarding HD coverage, please call the
same number"

We're just sitting in the bleachers watching the game, with no control over the outcome. DirecTV blames KOIN, KOIN blames DirecTV, KOIN has agreements with Comcast and FIOS, DirecTV has agreements with KGW and KATU.

And I'm not watching CBS so they are loosing ad revenue.
I'm watching another channel on DirecTV so they don't care.



"

[harsh]

DirecTV blames KOIN, KOIN blames DirecTV, KOIN has agreements with Comcast and FIOS, DirecTV has agreements with KGW and KATU.DISH also offers KOIN.

[woj027]

DISH also offers KOIN.

Sorry, I forgot to add Dish to the KOIN HD providers out there. It's early.

[tuckerdog]

On the other side, DirecTV also has the HD signal for 12 and 32

[TBoneit]

Instead of contacting KOIN directly why not go past them to the owners. KOIN is local management replying to you. Why not start your mailings to thm and DirecTV with a CC at the bottom to the corporation that owns the station. Maybe that would be more fruitful. Who knows how much information is going up the chain of command.

[marvod]

As i mentioned before, here is a list of people you we should be contacting. The advertisers on KOIN. If they get riled up KOIN will feel the heat. Let them know that you will not do business with them because you cannot see their ad's on KOIN.

http://www.koin.com/content/asseenonkoin/default.aspx

[questcam]

But.... at least there's the DirecTV Master's coverage. I think one of the channels is the actual ESPN or CBS feed.

http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/contentPageNR.jsp?assetId=P4550060

I hope they do not black out the Masters CBS HD feed as they did with the March Madness package for games that were being shown on KOIN.

[harsh]

On the other side, DirecTV also has the HD signal for 12 and 32KCRW is hardly a substitute for KOIN with only 8-9 hours of HD programming per week. To be sure, KCRW is needed (along with KOPB) to complete a full palette of HD programming.

[harsh]

I hope they do not black out the Masters CBS HD feed as they did with the March Madness package for games that were being shown on KOIN.Those are the blackout rules.

[ajc68]

You can watch the live feed of the Maters on channel 707 in HD.

There are 5 HD channels in all, including a live mix (706), highlights (708), Amen Corner (709) and Holes 15 & 16 (710).

[johnd55]

Thank You Directv for the Masters. Awesome pictures.

And my one finger salute goes to you folks at KOIN :mad:

[ajc68]

There’s obviously a problem between the two companies and they need to sit down and get it fixed. I’ve been following this for years and it seemed like all would be well once KOIN changed hands. Even the KOIN people seemed to think that would be the case. But now there at an impasse again! And this time it’s with the new management.

It’s really a shame that KOIN and D* can’t stop their petty bickering and get a deal done. And it has to be petty bickering at this point; since a price point has been set on both sides of the tracks in the PDX market. They don’t realize, or seem to care, how many people it effects.

[chuck5395]

Now that then new shows are once again populating the schedule, the fact that we do not get KOIN in HD really irks me (again)! I have stopped watching all the local programming from KOIN, I DVR all their network shows (and skip all the commercials as my small protest against the man).

[BubblePuppy]

Well, as expected my waiver is declined.:(
I tried.

[marcmec]

It remains unbelievable to me that KOIN is not understanding that they are losing viewership due to this issue. I don't watch any KOIN content because of it.
I blame KOIN. The bottom line is that they need to keep the locals happy because we pay the bills through their advertising. All of the other local affiliates have done what is necessary to have their signal available to DirecTV customers. Are we to believe that DirecTV is asking KOIN for more that what the other affiliates had to commit? That doesn't make any sense. What makes sense is that KOIN is asking DirecTV for something that the other affiliates did not, and KOIN('s parent company) doesn't care enough about the local viewers to bend their position and get a deal done that will keep us happy. DirecTV is the best HD provider available, they are already doing their customers a great service by what they provide, why would they let a CBS affiliate from one market push them around. KOIN is being short sighted and stubborn at the expense of the Oregon DirecTV customer. DirecTV's HD content is so good that I can always find something better to watch in HD on another channel than whatever SD crap is on KOIN.

They just don't get it. :bang

[Goldlexus]

KOIN's SD picture quality is pure crap. It is the worst quality of all the other local SD local content. Sometimes I watch SD when a program is not offered in HD. I like to fill the screen so yes I use the stretch feature. I hate pillar boxed content. Most channels are passable but KOIN is awful!!!!!! Their local news is especially bad regarding picture quality. I have completely stopped watching koin. It is just not worth it.

[evan_s]

I agree I don't really care how's fault it is. We are the ones who miss out while these 2 corporations drag their feet.

For anyone who has an HR-21 I'd recommend calling up and complaining. I talked to the cancellation department and was able to get them send out a AM21 and credit me for 10 bucks for 6 months to cover the cost because I was promised a unit able to handle OTA to pick up CBS in HD.

[chuck5395]

For anyone who has an HR-21 I'd recommend calling up and complaining. I talked to the cancellation department and was able to get them send out a AM21 and credit me for 10 bucks for 6 months to cover the cost because I was promised a unit able to handle OTA to pick up CBS in HD.

That's all well and good if you can actually get their HD broadcast OTA. I can't get it OTA down in the Salem area with an indoor antenna (dang HOA).:(

[lansbury]

That's all well and good if you can actually get their HD broadcast OTA. I can't get it OTA down in the Salem area with an indoor antenna (dang HOA).:(

I live in Milwaukie, very much closer, and need an outdoor antenna as during the winter with heavy rain and high winds there is constant picture break up with an indoor one.

[tuckerdog]

Apparently Lee Wood, who was the Chief Engineer at KOIN for 29 years, was fired this week. The plan is to hire a new C.E corporately and base him or her at KOIN.

Lee always seemed to be in the vanguard of HD in its formative stages.

I know many of us "early adapters" thank him for his efforts and wish him the best.

The world of corporate downsizing...eeech.....

[marvod]

Apparently Lee Wood, who was the Chief Engineer at KOIN for 29 years, was fired this week. The plan is to hire a new C.E corporately and base him or her at KOIN.

Lee always seemed to be in the vanguard of HD in its formative stages.

I know many of us "early adapters" thank him for his efforts and wish him the best.

The world of corporate downsizing...eeech.....


This is truly sad and not a good sign at KOIN. I've talked and worked with Lee for several years and he is a great guy.

[mortimer]

Well, I hate to get our hopes up, but my recent email to KSN (Wichita) received this reply:

Scott -- I appreciate your position...I think it will be resolved soon. Al

[ajc68]

Well, I hate to get our hopes up, but my recent email to KSN (Wichita) received this reply: Quote:

Scott -- I appreciate your position...I think it will be resolved soon. Al


We've heard this before and then things fell apart. But this time it might be different since D11 will be going live soon. Once D* has majorly increased its bandwidth, I would expect they would really try and tie up all the loose ends. Hopefully, CSN-NW will factor into that too.

[Eksynyt]

Considering we are still the largest media market without a CBS HD affiliate, it's gotta change at some point. Now if stupid CSNNW would stop asking for ridiculous amounts of money as well.

[lansbury]

Is anyone else experiencing problems with the KION 6-1 OTA signal. For the past 2 or 3 weeks I see frequently loss of signal and picture break up lasting from a second or too to 15 seconds or more.

All the other local HD OTA signals are OK and have no problems at all.

[harsh]

All the other local HD OTA signals are OK and have no problems at all.I receive KOIN HD OTA here in Salem and have seen no substantial signal issues. The HD PQ is surprisingly poor much of the time, but it doesn't seem to have any trouble reaching me.

[Kansas Zephyr]

That's all well and good if you can actually get their HD broadcast OTA. I can't get it OTA down in the Salem area with an indoor antenna (dang HOA).:(
Your HOA can't stop you from using an outdoor TV antenna.

They are "federally protected". No Joke.

http://www.fcc.gov/mb/facts/otard.html

[marvod]

Is anyone else experiencing problems with the KION 6-1 OTA signal. For the past 2 or 3 weeks I see frequently loss of signal and picture break up lasting from a second or too to 15 seconds or more.

All the other local HD OTA signals are OK and have no problems at all.

I'm having the same problem here in Canby. 6-1 power is all over the place the last couple of weeks.

[lansbury]

Thanks for the replies

[cdizzy]

I haven't seen much of a problem in beaverton. I use an indoor antenna and have always received signals around 65/100. I don't use it much though. Just sporting events.

[cosmos503]

Its really a shame this continues to drag on, and on, and on. It was particularly depressing to see LIN TV sign a retrans with DirecTV back in early June. Yet New Vision still cannot come to terms with them on a similar multi-market retrans discussion.

LIN TV and DirecTV reach retransmission agreement
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/06/09/lin-tv-and-directv-reach-retransmission-agreement/

Repeated messages to Chris @ KOIN basically just get reponses saying "they're working on it" - and still no resolution. I'm going to be very ticked off if the upcoming NFL season and fall tv season start up without KOIN/CBS in HD here in Portland.

We need someone with some clout here, they just don't seem to care about us - their customers.

[chuck5395]

I'm with you cosmos503. When I first went with DirecTV I knew about this issue but thought it wouldn't bother me. Guess what, it does!

When I first went to Comcrap HD KOIN was not included. But after a few months they had worked it out. I thought the same would be true with DirecTV. But alas, that has not been the case.

[TBoneit]

Maybe they aren't trying real hard at D* since they also sell the NFL ST and hope you'll sign up for that. Or maybe you'd be blacked out anyway. I'm just throwing things at the wall to see what sticks.

[ajc68]

Maybe they aren't trying real hard at D* since they also sell the NFL ST and hope you'll sign up for that. Or maybe you'd be blacked out anyway. I'm just throwing things at the wall to see what sticks.

The games that are shown by the local affilates are blacked out on the Season Ticket.

[cosmos503]

Yet again, more DirecTV HD local channels... and Portland (KOIN) is not on the list:

http://www.tvpredictions.com/dlocal072808.htm
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/07/28/directv-announces-next-44-markets-to-get-hd-locals/

Very, very disappointing!

[cdizzy]

Yep, disappointing for sure. Now that they announced that the next Survivor will be in HD I've started looking for other ways to get OTA. I bought a tuner card for my PC which is upstairs so I can get my antenna higher up in my house. Works pretty good luckily.

[cdizzy]

Looks like we have a new person to send all the emails too.


http://newvisiontv.com/press/New%20Vision%20Television%20Announces%20Managment% 20Change%20for%20KOIN-TV%20Portland,%20OR.pdf

[cosmos503]

Let me know if you get an email for Tim Perry. I'll be glad to send him an email on this topic.

I was really hoping when D11 goes live that the extra HD capacity would lead to more local HD channels. But, as per my previous post, looks like Portland got skipped over. Football season starts soon, and I would really love to have CBS in HD for that.

[Satelliteracer]

You guys might be surprised in Portland and Wichita by tomorrow as it relates to HD.


:D

[cdizzy]

I haven't sent one yet. I'll send one out when I get a chance today.

[johnd55]

Here's a thread regarding KSN-HD

I'd say things are looking up here in the Portland DMA:icon_da:

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=135406

[cdizzy]

You guys might be surprised in Portland and Wichita by tomorrow as it relates to HD.


:D


Satelliteracer, you better not be messing with us! :)

I was looking at the KSN thread but this has gone on forever and I just can't believe it until I see it.

[dc06]

From what I've been told by KSN's station manager I think we are good. The question is, I wonder exactly when they will be turned on... Hopefully before the opening ceremony starts.

[cdizzy]

If it happens tomorrow they will be turned on at 6am pacific.

Luckily for us Portland folks, KOIN is CBS and not NBC which we already have in HD. So this won't effect the Olympics.

[Satelliteracer]

If it happens tomorrow they will be turned on at 6am pacific.

Luckily for us Portland folks, KOIN is CBS and not NBC which we already have in HD. So this won't effect the Olympics.


Actually 3:00am Pacific, 6:00am Eastern


And no, I'm not messing with you guys. Festivus in Portland and Wichita.

[evan_s]

You guys might be surprised in Portland and Wichita by tomorrow as it relates to HD.


:D

Sweet. The AM21 works well enough but life would definitely be simpler with out it. Now all we need as a baseball bat for Comcast Sports NW and I'll actually be able to recommend DirecTV with out a couple footnotes.

[cdizzy]

Actually 3:00am Pacific, 6:00am Eastern


And no, I'm not messing with you guys. Festivus in Portland and Wichita.


Well, I stand corrected! Thanks Satracer. :hurah:

[Newshawk]

Wow! That will make Milwaukee the largest market missing a local channel in HD.

[Satelliteracer]

Wow! That will make Milwaukee the largest market missing a local channel in HD.


Yup, I hear about it often. I lived there for 10 years, went to school there, my son was born there, many friends with D* there. Negotiations ongoing.

[stansher]

Now if we get PBS Hd, I can take take down my OTA antenna! Can't wait!!

[pbg]

You guys might be surprised in Portland and Wichita by tomorrow as it relates to HD.


:D

Excellent! I'm a big fan of Portland HD suprises - Thanks for the tip off....

[Dusty]

I couldn't believe this. It's almost too good to be true. In time for PGA Championship this weekend. While we are at it, where is the Comcast Sportsnet?

[woj027]

Satelliteracer YOU ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[woj027]

from a KOIN rep

"Yes, the rumor is true. KOIN will be available in HD on DirecTV as of
tomorrow!

Thank you"

It's amazing how we find things out from people like Satelliteracer before the people in our own town tell us.

Have I said "Satelliteracer YOU ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" enough times yet?

[Goldlexus]

HELL FROZE OVER!!!! I can't believe it. KOIN in HD! Yippeeeee.

[tuckerdog]

Satracer
Thanks for the info and be sure the higher ups at D* know we appreciate it
Now before hell has a chance to unfreeze what about ComcastSportsNet. The Blazers should be of the more interesting new players in the NBA. With Odin finally making his debut and an exciting cast of young players, the Blazers may have more than just local appeal.
I realize Comcast is using it as a big marketing tool to keep local Subs, but there is a lways arbitration.
Thanks in advance
Michael

[johnd55]

And I just had a monkey fly out my butt :eek2:


HELL FROZE OVER!!!! I can't believe it. KOIN in HD! Yippeeeee.

[johnd55]

satelliteracer, To take a line out of Apollo 13...you *are* a steely-eyed satellite man. :bowdown:

[Goldlexus]

And I just had a monkey fly out my butt :eek2:


Watch out for the flying pigs too ;):hurah:

[ChemDoctor]

Finally! I live far from the KOIN tower amidst a bunch of tall trees and buildings. It's been very frustrating the past few years having the KOIN OTA HD signal cut out every time a car drove by my humble abode. Now I'll be able get the HD signal via satellite and watch football games in glorious, uninterrupted HD.

[Satelliteracer]

Satracer
Thanks for the info and be sure the higher ups at D* know we appreciate it
Now before hell has a chance to unfreeze what about ComcastSportsNet. The Blazers should be of the more interesting new players in the NBA. With Odin finally making his debut and an exciting cast of young players, the Blazers may have more than just local appeal.
I realize Comcast is using it as a big marketing tool to keep local Subs, but there is a lways arbitration.
Thanks in advance
Michael

Sorry, that one is ways off. We don't have it, DISH doesn't have it...I don't think anyone does other then Comcast and maybe a small mom and pop cable service here and there. The two sides will continue to talk but obviously an arrangement that makes sense for both parties (or in this case really all the providers since no one else seems to have it) has not happened yet. Hopefully it will.

[JayPSU]

Sorry, that one is ways off. We don't have it, DISH doesn't have it...I don't think anyone does other then Comcast and maybe a small mom and pop cable service here and there. The two sides will continue to talk but obviously an arrangement that makes sense for both parties (or in this case really all the providers since no one else seems to have it) has not happened yet. Hopefully it will.

Is Comcast Philly ever going to be a possibility?

[pbg]

Sorry, that one is ways off. We don't have it, DISH doesn't have it...I don't think anyone does other then Comcast and maybe a small mom and pop cable service here and there. The two sides will continue to talk but obviously an arrangement that makes sense for both parties (or in this case really all the providers since no one else seems to have it) has not happened yet. Hopefully it will.

Thanks for the update – We appreciate the real information, even if its not always good or what we want to hear. I think the only real player that picked it up was Verizon FIOS. I’d imagine things didn't get any less complicated once the Sonics left as well-