Lowest Internet speed for best movie quality ?

[the300]

What connection speed are most of you watching your movies/media from the internet at with still decent picture quality.
I am currently connected at 2 Mbps, and connected for a very short time my Dvd to my internet connection the other night. It didnt look to bad, every now and then some pix elation, but not as bad as I had thought it would be.
What do you guys think the lowest speed you would be able to get and still have a good pic ?

[P Smith]

I think the 2 Mbps would be the lowest for DVD-like quality.

[brant]

I think the 2 Mbps would be the lowest for DVD-like quality.

According to the netflix quality meter, i get "DVD quality" on 1.5Mpbs ADSL.

[P Smith]

Lucky you ! :D

[the300]

Reason I ask is...........
I currently have 1.5 mbps and thought about upgrading to AT&t 's 6 Meg Dsl service for 24.95, However, I really like my current provider and don't like the idea of having to install more lines near my computer for Dsl.
My current provider offers 4 Megs @29.99, And I can stay with my current set-up and the price is set for more than one year.
So does every one think that 4 Megs is definitely enough for a good quality stream from Netflix ?

[Nick]

Well, I can't speak for "everyone", but a consistent 4mBps would do for me.

[P Smith]

I recall that time when SD PPV and prime channels occupied 4-5 Mbps bandwidth on DtV/dish. Quality was excellent. Like DVD.

[mutelight]

I would say 3-4Mbps for SD then 7-10Mbps for HD.

[DCSholtis]

I average between for 4-5 Mbps and I get 720p streaming Netflix to my P3. For streaming anything under 3mbps and you're screwed (DVD quality). I'd go for the upgrade with 4mbps you should be fine.

[P Smith]

[Just to recall - DVD authoring set max bitrate at 15 Mbps, 'super bit' release - should be higher.]

[mutelight]

[Just to recall - DVD authoring set max bitrate at 15 Mbps, 'super bit' release - should be higher.]

This is true but MPEG-2 is also less efficient than VC-1 and H.264.

[the300]

Well, I just talked to a rep with the company I am with now, She said if I install another jack in the bedroom that they will charge me for two internet connections. So it looks like I will have to run a router from my main computer line to the bedroom.
Would a router slow your speed any ? Can someone recommend a decent router ?

[the300]

Also, will hooking the DTV receiver to my internet connection be the same as having it hooked to a phone line ? What can you do with the receiver hooked to the internet as well as the Dvd player ?