View Full Version : HGTV and Food Network Simulcast HD's
viper8399
03-10-08, 11:01 AM
So now that HGTV and Food Network will be simulcast, does this mean that we will no longer have to put a -1 at the end of the channel or are we getting 2 HGTV HD's and 2 Food Network HD's one being simulcast and the HD channels we already get?
It would be nice and it would make it consistant with all the other simulcast networks. If I was betting, I'd bet yes.
Stuart Sweet
03-10-08, 11:09 AM
For those who have not read the news:
KNOXVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Scripps Networks’ HGTV and Food Network will simulcast their respective standard-definition and high-definition feeds to cable and satellite affiliates beginning March 31, 2008.
More at...
http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/080310/20080310005151.html?.v=1
Indiana627
03-10-08, 11:09 AM
viper8399: You're fast. I was just going to post this info too.
http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/google/?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20080310005151&newsLang=en
I assume this means the 229-1 and 231-1 will go away. Let's just hope they don't stretch the SD content.
Stuart: You're fast TOO!
jefbal99
03-10-08, 11:52 AM
D*'s policy is to have simulcast channels match the SD channel number and non-simulcasts have the -1. I would guess that the end of this month, they lose the -1. Since this is not a channel addition, I would guess that it would happen the day of the change. not the prior Wednesday.
phatmatt1215
03-10-08, 11:57 AM
It's about time!!!!!
Earl Bonovich
03-10-08, 12:00 PM
My guess...
Is it won't happen day/date...
And they will wait for confirmation from the two networks, that everything is functioning as they expect it to.
And if any changes to the contracts, need to occur... those may need to be done as well.
So while it will most certainly be the case, don't expect it.. "the day of"... it may take a few days, if not weeks... to get the change in there.
NYSmoker
03-10-08, 12:05 PM
viper8399: You're fast. I was just going to post this info too.
http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/google/?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20080310005151&newsLang=en
I assume this means the 229-1 and 231-1 will go away. Let's just hope they don't stretch the SD content.
Stuart: You're fast TOO!
Well Food TV already stretches the commercials telling me how to live a better life. I don't think that is a good start.
So they are getting rid of the HD Versions that are there now? That seriously sucks as it was awesome to have 2 separate programs at once and almost everything was good looking HD stuff on the HD versions :(
Why would loosing 2 almost full time HD channels to 2 channels that will most likely be like other simulcast channels that only air somethings in HD be a good thing...
Also I liked how there were 2 Food/HGTV shows on at once as we watch those networks a lot.
So they are getting rid of the HD Versions that are there now? That seriously sucks as it was awesome to have 2 separate programs at once and almost everything was good looking HD stuff on the HD versions :(
Why would loosing 2 almost full time HD channels to 2 channels that will most likely be like other simulcast channels that only air somethings in HD be a good thing...
Also I liked how there were 2 Food/HGTV shows on at once as we watch those networks a lot.
I cannot agree more!! The wife and I (nothing like watching a good cooking show with Giada in HD) enjoy having the two networks.. They rarely have the same shows on at once and have some good shows on both channels..
It's nice having the choices.. I guess the networks don't like us having choices.. (or people like Charter who I had for cable uniil Oct 2007 that just don't have the room for two channels.. so lets make one!!)
Earl Bonovich
03-10-08, 12:36 PM
I cannot agree more!! The wife and I (nothing like watching a good cooking show with Giada in HD) enjoy having the two networks.. They rarely have the same shows on at once and have some good shows on both channels..
It's nice having the choices.. I guess the networks don't like us having choices.. (or people like Charter who I had for cable uniil Oct 2007 that just don't have the room for two channels.. so lets make one!!)
Or the network, which only has the financial resources to run 1 channel (long term)
Has reached the point that they are satisfied with their HD aspects...
And have decided to just do a single channel.... and thus take their HD channel, and provide it in HD and SD formats to their carrier.
While enjoy the food network, and HGTV... I can't see enough distinct programming on either of them to have FOOD1 and FOOD2 (HGTV1 and HGTV2)..
The real question here is....how much of HGTV & FOOD's simulcasted channel will be HD?? The -1 versions were obviously 100% HD (outside paid programming and commercials, of course). Are they at a 80%, 90% point of having HD programming on the simulcast, or what? We'll have to wait and see...
I told my wife this day was coming, that HGTV would cease their HD version at some point...didn't think it'd happen this quickly.
Snoofie
03-10-08, 12:50 PM
I have enjoyed catching up on the older episodes of shows on the HD channel, but overall I think it will be a good thing to just have one channel broadcasting the same content. However, maybe they should do some kind of hybrid channel with Food Network, HGTV, Fine Living and DIY. Kind of like HD Theater or MHD. Then they satisfy everybody. There is certainly enough content to have a seperate channel.
Or the network, which only has the financial resources to run 1 channel (long term)
Very true... I'm sure it costs a few bucks a month to keep a channel running :)
BTW.. After skimming the site for the last few months, I see that you live in the same town that I grew up in as well as have family in.. Talk about a small world..
Earl Bonovich
03-10-08, 01:46 PM
Very true... I'm sure it costs a few bucks a month to keep a channel running :)
BTW.. After skimming the site for the last few months, I see that you live in the same town that I grew up in as well as have family in.. Talk about a small world..
It really is.
DVaccarelli
03-10-08, 02:37 PM
Will the 4:3 content (such as the Unwrapped episodes prior to 2006, The Secret Life Of, and Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives) use panoramic stretch-o-vision (just like they use on the current HD channels) or use original aspect ratio with the bars on the sides?
Earl Bonovich
03-10-08, 02:41 PM
Will the 4:3 content (such as the Unwrapped episodes prior to 2006, The Secret Life Of, and Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives) use panoramic stretch-o-vision (just like they use on the current HD channels) or use original aspect ratio with the bars on the sides?
We probably won't know the answer till that till after the switch.
Everyone who has series links on the -1 channels, don't forget to move them after the -1 HGTV and Food channels disappear!
sbelmont
03-10-08, 02:59 PM
About time they do this. Personnaly we thought the -1 channels were a waste of bandwidth.
I just hope they have a lot of HD content on the simulcast....a lot of "HD" channels still air a LOT of stretch-o-vision and SD content that gets tiring when you are paying and going for HD. That is why the -1 versions were such a relief as they were pretty much 99% HD
Waste of bandwidth is a joke as D* is putting up 2 new birds right now...but again this is HGTV/Food networks deal, not D*. I also doubt funding is an issue for E.W. Scripps (the parent company) who is one of the larger media companies out there.
Kansas Zephyr
03-10-08, 05:07 PM
About time they do this. Personnaly we thought the -1 channels were a waste of bandwidth.
I don't think that will change.
There will still be the MPEG2 SD version for SD only IRDs, in addition to the MPEG4 HD simulcast. Right?
HDTVsportsfan
03-10-08, 05:49 PM
231-1 has a massive amount of repeats tho.
But that's OK when it Giada.
sbelmont
03-10-08, 06:29 PM
231-1 has a massive amount of repeats tho.
But that's OK when it Giada.
It was all repeats, and that is what we didn't like about it. Now if it was all Giada THAT would be a different story.:D
One show I'll miss on HGTV-HD (229-1...and don't tell the wife!) is "Any Given Latitude"...a travel/food show from Fine Living, I think. I doubt it'll be on the "new" simulcasted HGTV-SD/HD (229). :(
Brent04
03-10-08, 07:37 PM
About time they do this. Personnaly we thought the -1 channels were a waste of bandwidth.
How is it a waste of bandwith the new HGTV-HD and FoodTV-HD will still take up two channels regardless if they are simulcasted.
In its current state, with no simulcasting, there are four channels: two for Food, two for HGTV. This requires bandwidth for two HD channels and two SD channels, all four showing different programming. Later, it requires bandwidth for two HD channels and two SD channels, with the HD channels showing same programming as the SD channels..
Hmm. Amazing how that worked out! :p
TheRatPatrol
03-10-08, 10:47 PM
I wonder if Fine Living and DIY will eventually go HD as well.
elaclair
03-10-08, 11:17 PM
I hope they don't do away with those little HD interludes they've been playing during the breaks....especially the ones on HGTV that start out as an assumed 4:3 image only to "break out" in to the full 16:9.....
sbelmont
03-11-08, 08:22 AM
How is it a waste of bandwith the new HGTV-HD and FoodTV-HD will still take up two channels regardless if they are simulcasted.
Because they were not showing their new content in HD but rather just old content. Totaly turned us off.
Earl Bonovich
03-11-08, 08:44 AM
In its current state, with no simulcasting, there are four channels: two for Food, two for HGTV. This requires bandwidth for two HD channels and two SD channels, all four showing different programming. Later, it requires bandwidth for two HD channels and two SD channels, with the HD channels showing same programming as the SD channels..
Hmm. Amazing how that worked out! :p
That is the bandwith between DirecTV and us the customers.
But what could change... is that in some short period of time...
Food Network -> DirecTV; 1 Feed: HD feed, and DirecTV downrez/size it for the SD version.
HGTV -> DirecTV; 1 Feed: HD Feed, and DirecTV downrez/size it for the SD version.
So bandwith saved on the backhaul, which means more room to get more channels (or better source material) from the content sources.
Or more room for Food Network/HGTV to create a new channels or 2nd channels for those networks.
Which also could me stability in the rate they charge DirecTV for the channel... which could me stability in the rate we have to pay.
Stuart Sweet
03-11-08, 09:18 AM
Actually that sort of change could begin to happen with all the SD simulcasts and it would make a large difference.
topperdude
03-11-08, 09:41 AM
Very true... I'm sure it costs a few bucks a month to keep a channel running :)
BTW.. After skimming the site for the last few months, I see that you live in the same town that I grew up in as well as have family in.. Talk about a small world..
Speaking of small world - xrobmn, I live in Rochester,MN as well (NW part near the KTTC/NBC station office) :wave:
BTW, I have my D* install scheduled in a few days and would appreciate some input if you can provide it re.:
a) How was your experience with the installers - were they professional in their install, easy to work with, did they have an attitude like I have read in other posts.
b) Comparison of Charter and D* picture quality - I have read other threads comparing local cable providers with satellite service, but understand these are very subjective as cable TV quality can cary a lot from town to town and would appreciate feedback from someone local.
I do not wish to threadcrap/hijack this thread and so it may be better if you can post your response in this thread (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=121799). I have been getting some pretty good advice from senior members over there and would appreciate feedback from fellow local members to avoid any unpleasant surprizes.
A bit more on topic, we also enjoy Food Network and HGTV, although we currently get them only in SD from our cable provider. With our D* install we should be getting these in HD and I wonder if they have any shows that are broadcast with 5.1 surround sound (I understand even if videos may be in HD, audio could still be plain stereo?). Thanks.
-Topper
dan8379
03-11-08, 09:42 AM
Count me in as being bummed about losing the -1 channels. Those were two of the best looking channels on D*, and repeats didn't bother me that much because I don't watch the channels 24-7. It was nice knowing there always high quality HD on them though (other than when paid programming was on in the middle of the night).
That is the bandwith between DirecTV and us the customers.I knew that Earl ... Silly me, I forgot to quote the posts I was replying to:
About time they do this. Personnaly we thought the -1 channels were a waste of bandwidth.How is it a waste of bandwith the new HGTV-HD and FoodTV-HD will still take up two channels regardless if they are simulcasted.
Indiana627
03-11-08, 10:54 AM
That is the bandwith between DirecTV and us the customers.
But what could change... is that in some short period of time...
Food Network -> DirecTV; 1 Feed: HD feed, and DirecTV downrez/size it for the SD version.
HGTV -> DirecTV; 1 Feed: HD Feed, and DirecTV downrez/size it for the SD version.
So bandwith saved on the backhaul, which means more room to get more channels (or better source material) from the content sources.
Or more room for Food Network/HGTV to create a new channels or 2nd channels for those networks.
Which also could me stability in the rate they charge DirecTV for the channel... which could me stability in the rate we have to pay.
Actually that sort of change could begin to happen with all the SD simulcasts and it would make a large difference.
Wow, I imagine that could save D* a lot of bandwidth which they could then use to increase the bandwidth to all channels (specifically an increase for SD channels would be nice as the HD channels currently look great).
That is the bandwith between DirecTV and us the customers.
But what could change... is that in some short period of time...
Food Network -> DirecTV; 1 Feed: HD feed, and DirecTV downrez/size it for the SD version.
HGTV -> DirecTV; 1 Feed: HD Feed, and DirecTV downrez/size it for the SD version.
So bandwith saved on the backhaul, which means more room to get more channels (or better source material) from the content sources.
Or more room for Food Network/HGTV to create a new channels or 2nd channels for those networks.
Which also could me stability in the rate they charge DirecTV for the channel... which could me stability in the rate we have to pay.
I believe that is the idea that HBO is running with for their HD channels: supply the provider with HD versions, it's up to them to downrez/size it for SD if they wish to provide an SD version to their subscribers.
EDIT: yep (http://www.afterdawn.com/news/archive/10163.cfm):
By 2008, HBO will distribute 26 channels in HD MPEG-4, and the decision should have an impact on operators who work in an MPEG-2 environment.
The MPEG-2 operators will be forced to either transcode the HBO signal back down to MPEG-2 or upgrade their customer's set top boxes to be able to offer MPEG-4 distribution. Most operators will have to upgrade their networks as well.
iceturkee
03-11-08, 02:47 PM
my only complaint with food hd is that the programs are rerun over and over and over again. and although, the sd counterpart have aired 2008 episodes, the hd hasn't. i'm really looking forward to current (and hopefully additional) hd programming, even if it isn't 100 percent of the time.
Brent04
03-11-08, 03:51 PM
Because they were not showing their new content in HD but rather just old content. Totaly turned us off.
At least all of it was HD and not mostly up-converted SD.
bwaldron
03-11-08, 05:12 PM
my only complaint with food hd is that the programs are rerun over and over and over again. and although, the sd counterpart have aired 2008 episodes, the hd hasn't. i'm really looking forward to current (and hopefully additional) hd programming, even if it isn't 100 percent of the time.
I agree.
Stuart Sweet
03-24-08, 08:18 AM
Now that it's close enough that my To Do list is getting populated, it looks like HGTV and Food are still on the "-1" channels for now. We'll see if what happens on the 1st.
NYSmoker
03-24-08, 08:28 AM
Now that it's close enough that my To Do list is getting populated, it looks like HGTV and Food are still on the "-1" channels for now. We'll see if what happens on the 1st.
Moving ahead the 2 weeks in the guide shows the -1 channels still there but not showing 100% HD content as it is now. Maybe D* will just keep the two channel numbers for a while and eventually give us a scrolling message about them going away on the -1's.
Less than 12 hours until HGTV-HD and Food-HD are no longer 100% HD... :(
Any word/insight from D* as to if the main channels will tune directly to the HD simulcast come midnight, or will we still need to dial up the -1 channel to see (some) HD?
dbsdave
03-30-08, 04:48 PM
Less than 12 hours until HGTV-HD and Food-HD are no longer 100% HD... :(
Any word/insight from D* as to if the main channels will tune directly to the HD simulcast come midnight, or will we still need to dial up the -1 channel to see (some) HD?
wednesday, everything happens on wednesday
say-what
03-30-08, 04:49 PM
Moving ahead the 2 weeks in the guide shows the -1 channels still there but not showing 100% HD content as it is now. Maybe D* will just keep the two channel numbers for a while and eventually give us a scrolling message about them going away on the -1's.
yeah, they might mirror the new simulcast channels so people aren't caught by surprise.
Another reminder ... double-check all series links and re-create them as needed when the channels "merge"!
Newshawk
03-30-08, 06:03 PM
Less than 12 hours until HGTV-HD and Food-HD are no longer 100% HD... :(
Any word/insight from D* as to if the main channels will tune directly to the HD simulcast come midnight, or will we still need to dial up the -1 channel to see (some) HD?
I would say that it might be closer to 6 AM, ET. That is usually the time when new channels are turned on.
jamieh1
03-30-08, 07:35 PM
Appears according to the guide that the change happens at 6am, I hate this as these 2 channels had the best hd pq, and hgtv hd had some goods shows, now we get part time hd.
djzack67
03-30-08, 07:42 PM
Appears according to the guide that the change happens at 6am, I hate this as these 2 channels had the best hd pq, and hgtv hd had some goods shows, now we get part time hd.
See what happens in the morning.
sbelmont
03-30-08, 08:37 PM
Looking forward to seeing 'new' edpisodes in HD... waing to see what D* does with the naming so we can 'fix' all our series links.
QuickDrop
03-31-08, 01:42 AM
I believe that is the idea that HBO is running with for their HD channels: supply the provider with HD versions, it's up to them to downrez/size it for SD if they wish to provide an SD version to their subscribers.
EDIT: yep (http://www.afterdawn.com/news/archive/10163.cfm):
Quote:
By 2008, HBO will distribute 26 channels in HD MPEG-4, and the decision should have an impact on operators who work in an MPEG-2 environment.
The MPEG-2 operators will be forced to either transcode the HBO signal back down to MPEG-2 or upgrade their customer's set top boxes to be able to offer MPEG-4 distribution. Most operators will have to upgrade their networks as well.
I'm not sure MPEG-2 translates to SD in this instance. I assumed this was a bandwith saving measure on HBO's part for their HD content, the result being that cable (and satellite) providers whose HD boxes only decode MPEG-2 HD programming would have to reconvert them to MPEG-2. Widescreen movies are a mess now when they're resized for 4x3 TV; I would hate to see how they would look when they're resized on the fly by cable companies.
DCSholtis
03-31-08, 07:36 AM
Well it appears that at least with Food Network HD, 231 is carrying SD feeds but 231-1 is mirroring the shows in HD. Exact programming on each channel one in SD, one in HD.
EDIT: Same goes with HGTV. SD shows on the main, HD mirrors on the -1.
Indiana627
03-31-08, 08:40 AM
I'd assume that eventually (maybe even this Wed) that the -1 versions of both will go away and they will function just like any other channel with an SD/HD simulcast, meaning there will be two 229 and 231 and those with MPEG4 can simply hide the SD duplicate.
iceturkee
03-31-08, 09:07 AM
I'd assume that eventually (maybe even this Wed) that the -1 versions of both will go away and they will function just like any other channel with an SD/HD simulcast, meaning there will be two 229 and 231 and those with MPEG4 can simply hide the SD duplicate.
good point!
bwaldron
03-31-08, 10:49 AM
I'd assume that eventually (maybe even this Wed) that the -1 versions of both will go away and they will function just like any other channel with an SD/HD simulcast, meaning there will be two 229 and 231 and those with MPEG4 can simply hide the SD duplicate.
I would expect exactly that.
I'd assume that eventually (maybe even this Wed) that the -1 versions of both will go away and they will function just like any other channel with an SD/HD simulcast, meaning there will be two 229 and 231 and those with MPEG4 can simply hide the SD duplicate.
If they do they should warn people that might have series links set up since they'd break id they did that.
So has anyone found a contact other than snail mail to yell at them about stretching SD upconverts? ;) It was no big deal when the only SD content on Food HD were infomercials and commercials, but now that it also includes real programming, it's annoying to say the least. :p So far all I've found is this postal address:
Scripps Networks
P.O. Box 51850
Knoxville, TN 37950
ChrisPC
03-31-08, 06:14 PM
I hadn't heard about this. Today, I turned it on and realized it was an upconvert. I then saw the schedule lined up completely. I'm a Good Eats fan and really loved having double the episodes. Well, at least I won't see the Arbor Day and Pass it On PSA's 15 times a day.
The old HD channels had no upconverts, it was all HD. What they are doing now is criminal.
What can't they just leave it alone! :mad:
Indiana627
04-01-08, 06:19 AM
I'd assume that eventually (maybe even this Wed) that the -1 versions of both will go away and they will function just like any other channel with an SD/HD simulcast, meaning there will be two 229 and 231 and those with MPEG4 can simply hide the SD duplicate.
Well it happened one day sooner than I thought. As of this morning both -1 versions are gone and now 229 is listed as HGTVHD and 231 is FOODHD.
Interestingly both still appeared in my guide without me having to add them. Usually when an SD channel is replaced by its HD counterpart, you have to manually add the HD version to your guide. I already redid my House Hunters series link (and will do the same for my 2 other HGTV SL when those shows return to the schedule).
jwt0001
04-01-08, 06:29 AM
Criminal? I think you're being a little harsh.
I'd rather have a mixture than the same repeats over and over. Frankly we got Diners Drive-ins and Dives in HD (including older shows), so I'll take that over the latest repeat of Pairings with Andrea (or whatever the show was called).
The old HD channels had no upconverts, it was all HD. What they are doing now is criminal.
What can't they just leave it alone! :mad:
TheRatPatrol
04-01-08, 07:03 AM
Well it happened one day sooner than I thought. As of this morning both -1 versions are gone and now 229 is listed as HGTVHD and 231 is FOODHD.
Interestingly both still appeared in my guide without me having to add them. Usually when an SD channel is replaced by its HD counterpart, you have to manually add the HD version to your guide. I already redid my House Hunters series link (and will do the same for my 2 other HGTV SL when those shows return to the schedule).
Interestingly I didn't have to change my series links, they're showing up correctly on the 229 HD channel.
Snoofie
04-01-08, 07:41 AM
I noticed that Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives recorded last night, but I haven't watched it yet so I didn't notice that they had already switched the channels. I guess it didn't bother my SL for the change though so that is good. I wish they wouldn't upconvert programming, but I don't think that Discovery Channel looks that bad when they do it so hopefully Food Network and HGTV will also look alright. I prefer OAR, but hopefully there will still be a large amount of HD programming to watch and then I can deal with the occassional upconverted show.
Indiana627
04-01-08, 07:56 AM
Interestingly I didn't have to change my series links, they're showing up correctly on the 229 HD channel.
You had SL set on the old 229 SD or 229-1 HD? I had SLs set for 229 SD and had to redo them for 229 HD. I could see SLs set up on 229-1 HD following over to 229 HD.
Stuart Sweet
04-01-08, 08:11 AM
It looks like all my SLs properly migrated. Those for HGTVHD stayed on HGTVHD and those on HGTV(SD) are there as well. We record a lot of programs on this channel and I'll keep the ones that are really SD upconverts recording on the SD channel to save space.
Indiana627
04-01-08, 08:37 AM
It looks like all my SLs properly migrated. Those for HGTVHD stayed on HGTVHD and those on HGTV(SD) are there as well. We record a lot of programs on this channel and I'll keep the ones that are really SD upconverts recording on the SD channel to save space.
You may save space by continuing to record on 229 SD but the PQ between the SD and the SD upconvert is dramatic. I compared the 7:30 House Hunters last night between 229 SD and the upconvert on 229-1 HD and it was a night and day difference. Obviously not HD quality, but SO much better than regular SD.
Rage187
04-01-08, 09:20 AM
I consider this a loss of 2 channels.
It was always nice to find a Good Eats or House Hunters on sometime during the day.
bwaldron
04-01-08, 09:21 AM
It was always nice to find a Good Eats or House Hunters on sometime during the day.
That's what series links are for :)
jefbal99
04-01-08, 09:36 AM
I consider this a loss of 2 channels.
It was always nice to find a Good Eats or House Hunters on sometime during the day.
I'm the exact opposite, while i hate the SD stretching, i hated even more seeing the same repeats over and over and over and over and over and over and over, etc.
ChrisPC
04-01-08, 11:37 AM
It looks like they've dropped the 229-1 and 231-1 channel numbers now. I can't even tune to them anymore.
Steve615
04-01-08, 11:46 AM
So has anyone found a contact other than snail mail to yell at them about stretching SD upconverts? ;) It was no big deal when the only SD content on Food HD were infomercials and commercials, but now that it also includes real programming, it's annoying to say the least. :p So far all I've found is this postal address:
Scripps Networks
P.O. Box 51850
Knoxville, TN 37950
The following link contains a list of mailing/shipping addresses and phone numbers.It appears that they don't have a way to contact them online.
http://www.scrippsnetworks.com/newsitem.aspx?id=146
So has anyone found a contact other than snail mail to yell at them about stretching SD upconverts? ;) It was no big deal when the only SD content on Food HD were infomercials and commercials, but now that it also includes real programming, it's annoying to say the least. :p So far all I've found is this postal address:
Scripps Networks
P.O. Box 51850
Knoxville, TN 37950
Can't you set your TV to 4:3? This will put the picture in proper aspect. That is what I do.
Indiana627
04-01-08, 12:45 PM
It looks like they've dropped the 229-1 and 231-1 channel numbers now. I can't even tune to them anymore.
Yup, see 10 posts above yours.
http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=1529121#post1529121
Can't you set your TV to 4:3? This will put the picture in proper aspect. That is what I do.Yes both of my displays can 'un-stretch' 16:9 programming back to 4:3, but this doesn't fix the issue, since the Scripps HD networks aren't doing a basic uniform stretch, but are doing the stretch-o-vision crap we're used to seeing from the likes of TNT-HD. ;)
Jeremy W
04-01-08, 02:21 PM
Interestingly both still appeared in my guide without me having to add them.
DirecTV kept the internal channel IDs the same, so that people who had the -1 channels added to their guides and/or had Series Links on them, wouldn't have to do anything. Good move!
sbelmont
04-01-08, 02:30 PM
For those bemooning the loss of the all HD content, even though it was all repeats, I think you need to look forward to the future. Per their press release from the announcement Food Network, HGTV to Begin High-Definition Simulcast (http://www.scrippsnetworks.com/newsitem.aspx?id=233) "Food Network plans to ramp up its production of high-definition programs and is upgrading its Chelsea Market studios in New York to full high-definition capability."
iceturkee
04-01-08, 02:51 PM
Criminal? I think you're being a little harsh.
I'd rather have a mixture than the same repeats over and over. Frankly we got Diners Drive-ins and Dives in HD (including older shows), so I'll take that over the latest repeat of Pairings with Andrea (or whatever the show was called).
cool, another D,D & D fan? plus, i actually got to watch a newer good eats episode last night.
Stuart Sweet
04-01-08, 03:05 PM
You may save space by continuing to record on 229 SD but the PQ between the SD and the SD upconvert is dramatic. I compared the 7:30 House Hunters last night between 229 SD and the upconvert on 229-1 HD and it was a night and day difference. Obviously not HD quality, but SO much better than regular SD.
Just looked at it and it seems that the SD stuff on the HD feed is in stretch-o-vision so I'll be avoiding that, thank you.
dwrats_56
04-01-08, 04:27 PM
It looks like they've dropped the 229-1 and 231-1 channel numbers now. I can't even tune to them anymore.
I had both the SD and HD channels on my custom list and tonight when I came home the -1 channels were gone.
I just hope they do increase their HD production. There are several shows on the SD channel that I enjoyed watching.
Boy, the HD looks like crapovision. Figures they screw things up rather than make it better. We watch a ton of HGTV and the HD was superb. This stretch garbage is for the birds.
TheRatPatrol
04-01-08, 07:24 PM
You had SL set on the old 229 SD or 229-1 HD? I had SLs set for 229 SD and had to redo them for 229 HD. I could see SLs set up on 229-1 HD following over to 229 HD.
Actually on both and they both switched over to the correct channels.
DirecTV kept the internal channel IDs the same, so that people who had the -1 channels added to their guides and/or had Series Links on them, wouldn't have to do anything. Good move!
Yes it did work out good.
MIKE0616
04-02-08, 07:00 AM
It looks like all my SLs properly migrated. Those for HGTVHD stayed on HGTVHD and those on HGTV(SD) are there as well. We record a lot of programs on this channel and I'll keep the ones that are really SD upconverts recording on the SD channel to save space.
Was just sitting here looking at the SLs we have for these 2 channels, trying to figure this one out.
Our case is that we have maybe 20 SLs for these 2 networks spread over both the old SD and HD (-1) flavors. That way, if an episode of DD&D came on either 231 or 231-1, we would get it. Same for lots of shows that were on HGTV as well. These channels account for a vast majority of the shows we record.
Now, am wondering if I had a SL for Good Eats on BOTH 231 AND 231-1, will I now get 2 copies of all the shows that have the SLs set up for them? I just looked at the SLs menu and that is what it now appears to be doing, we will now get a version from the SD side and the HD side, and both will now have the same channel number showing? Is that it?
Anyone else have this same setup?
I am sure not wanting to have to write down, delete and re-add the SLs all over again for the shows on these channels, and am wondering about the ones that are already set up, but not currently showing, like Feasting On Asphalt. When it comes back on, will I get the SD version of it or the HD version, or is it just a crapshoot?
Jeremy W
04-02-08, 09:55 AM
if I had a SL for Good Eats on BOTH 231 AND 231-1, will I now get 2 copies of all the shows that have the SLs set up for them?
Yes. Just delete the SD one, and you'll be fine.
BattleScott
04-02-08, 10:52 AM
Here is an email link if you wish to voice your opinion to them about this change. I sure did. One of few sources of quality HD programming turned into a pile of stretch-o-vision garbage.
Mediarelations@scrippsnetworks.com
Stuart Sweet
04-02-08, 10:59 AM
Was just sitting here looking at the SLs we have for these 2 channels, trying to figure this one out.
Our case is that we have maybe 20 SLs for these 2 networks spread over both the old SD and HD (-1) flavors. That way, if an episode of DD&D came on either 231 or 231-1, we would get it. Same for lots of shows that were on HGTV as well. These channels account for a vast majority of the shows we record.
Now, am wondering if I had a SL for Good Eats on BOTH 231 AND 231-1, will I now get 2 copies of all the shows that have the SLs set up for them? I just looked at the SLs menu and that is what it now appears to be doing, we will now get a version from the SD side and the HD side, and both will now have the same channel number showing? Is that it?
Anyone else have this same setup?
I am sure not wanting to have to write down, delete and re-add the SLs all over again for the shows on these channels, and am wondering about the ones that are already set up, but not currently showing, like Feasting On Asphalt. When it comes back on, will I get the SD version of it or the HD version, or is it just a crapshoot?
Yes basically you will get a lot of duplicates. My suggestion is, take a little time and figure out what you can ditch.
cadet502
04-02-08, 01:54 PM
Crappy strechovision - what a bunch of freakin maroons!!!!
Crappy strechovision - what a bunch of freakin maroons!!!!
The FoodTV programs I saw yesterday were not. All the "throwdown" and "Good Eats" were HD proper aspect. I have a feeling Iron Chef may be an issue though.
Brian Hanasky
04-02-08, 02:15 PM
Well I guess this depends on perspective. We can complain about the current situation (with valid points) or option 2: Now that HGTV and Food are simulcast in HD they may have more incentive to produce more programs in HD. More new AB in HD works for me.
Indiana627
04-02-08, 02:21 PM
I looked ahead to the Saturday guide for HGTV and saw some shows flagged as HD that were never in HD on the old -1 channel, so maybe we'll be getting some new HD as a result of this change, instead of just the same shows repeated every 3 hours each day.
Just because it shows HD doesn't make it true Hd. Most likely stretchovision. Angry email sent. Thanks for the information BattleScott
Ed Campbell
04-02-08, 03:22 PM
I'd rather have a mixture than the same repeats over and over. Frankly we got Diners Drive-ins and Dives in HD (including older shows), so I'll take that over the latest repeat of Pairings with Andrea (or whatever the show was called).
DD&D is in HD, now. Cripes - i'll have to run into the LR and set-up a SL. Surprise my wife.
We think that show is a hoot.
My father-in-law spent last summer with his 5th-wheeler going up the East Coast to Newfoundland and the Maritimes and he hit every diner that had showed along that route in the first season! Loved it.
I think merging the channels was a good idea; it will probably fast track more HD produced content. I think they blew it by going with stretch-o-vision for the non-HD content.
cadet502
04-02-08, 05:21 PM
The FoodTV programs I saw yesterday were not. All the "throwdown" and "Good Eats" were HD proper aspect. I have a feeling Iron Chef may be an issue though.
When I tuned in to Tylers Ultimate this afternoon at 3:30? it was pure strechovision. The only positive aspect is that they did not designate the show as HD. So I'll just leave both channels in my guide and not tune to the HD channel unless it has the logo. Of course my email said that I would never watch their nausea inducing channel again, but, I NEED my Giada. :D
bpdunsta
04-02-08, 08:03 PM
Is it just me, or is it just the edges that are stretched on HGTV? In shots where they pan (like on House Hunters), I think I'm getting motion sickness!
Boooo!
^--- No kidding! This is terrible! Especially since the show is shot in HD!!!!!!!!! :(
To complain:
http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/about_us/text/0,1783,HGTV_3080_4964,00.html
I'm not sure how effective this will be but I feel better.
Their response:
"Hello and thank you for your email with the subject:
TOPIC High Definition Programming comment
We appreciate your taking the time to write to us. Allow us to explain how your email will be handled from this point.
If you chose 'Comment' from our webform, your email has already been routed based on the topic or show you selected. This confirmation email is our reply to inform you that your comment has been received and will be directed to the appropriate department based upon the topic or show selected. No further reply will be forthcoming from us regarding your comments, but do understand that your comments and suggestions about our programming and our website are very important to all of us. Be assured, every email is read with consideration. "
Blah, blah, blah.
Tom Servo
04-02-08, 11:21 PM
Here is an email link if you wish to voice your opinion to them about this change. I sure did. One of few sources of quality HD programming turned into a pile of stretch-o-vision garbage.
Mediarelations@scrippsnetworks.com
Done and done. Hopefully they'll pull an ESPN and change.
Indiana627
04-03-08, 06:13 AM
Just because it shows HD doesn't make it true Hd. Most likely stretchovision.
Actually they are pretty good so far to only label true HD shows as HD. All the non HD stretched shows are not labeled HD.
MIKE0616
04-03-08, 07:16 AM
DD&D is in HD, now. Cripes - i'll have to run into the LR and set-up a SL. Surprise my wife.
We think that show is a hoot.
My father-in-law spent last summer with his 5th-wheeler going up the East Coast to Newfoundland and the Maritimes and he hit every diner that had showed along that route in the first season! Loved it.
Sounds to me like your FIL is a smart guy! :D The wife and I have made many "side trips" to catch places that have been on that show. Haven't been disappointed yet. The very interesting thing is when at some of these places, others have been there saw the show as well and have told us about places that were close that should be on the show as well.
The one place that was the hardest sell to my wife was to go to the "Triple X Drive In" (abuts the campus of Purdue Univ. in W Lafayette, IN.) Somehow, the name of that place made her just a bit leery of it, even when I tried to tell her it was Triple X root beer and not a place where the waitresses were topless. :( (Not that I wouldn't have liked that, in addition to the good grub!)
The interesting thing about the show is that they apparently have been making shows in HD for some time as have seen older episodes that were now being shown in HD, but were not new shows. Glad they did that as some of the places look much better in HD than they did in SD.
texasbrit
04-05-08, 06:16 AM
I am now told that HGTV is still broadcasting a full HD channel with different programming from the SD channel, on Comcast cable. Can anyone confirm that, and if so why did we lose that channel on DirecTV?
Interesting, HGTV is indeed showing two different guides: a regular guide (http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/program_guide/0,1783,HGTV_3658,00.html) and an HD guide (http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/pac_ctnt_988/text/0,,HGTV_22056_44656,00.html)...
jessshaun
04-05-08, 07:26 AM
The "HD guide" is outdated. There is no separate programming on the HD channel anymore.
IMHO, Thank god. 3 or 4 shows repeated all day was getting rediculous. I wish they'd unstretch SD though.
Snoofie
04-09-08, 11:14 AM
I just noticed on Monday that Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives started recording in SD even though it was broadcast in HD. It's like my SL was still recording from the SD channel even though the SD and HD are using the same channel number now. I stopped the recording and recorded the HD channel and then put a SL on the HD version, but that is the first time I've had that happen.
iceturkee
04-09-08, 11:34 AM
I just noticed on Monday that Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives started recording in SD even though it was broadcast in HD. It's like my SL was still recording from the SD channel even though the SD and HD are using the same channel number now. I stopped the recording and recorded the HD channel and then put a SL on the HD version, but that is the first time I've had that happen.
i recorded the 10pm airing and it was fine.
Jeremy W
04-09-08, 04:49 PM
It's like my SL was still recording from the SD channel even though the SD and HD are using the same channel number now.
As far as the DVR is concerned, they are two separate channels. The virtual numbers that you see may be the same, but internally they are totally separate. That's why your recordings continued on the SD channel.
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