Discovery Readies HDTV Channel

[Steve Mehs]

On June 17, Discovery will launch Discovery HD Theater, a new 24-hour network that will transmit high-definition programming featuring some of its top content.

Discovery said it has more than 115 HDTV titles ready for transmission and new productions have been commissioned to support the new service. The June debut coincides with the 17th anniversary of the Discovery Channel's first transmission in 1985.

Discovery HD Theater will be offered to cable systems, satellite providers and other multichannel distribution systems. It will reside on Satcom 4, Transponder 14. The HDTV digital signal will be delivered in 1080i high-definition resolution.

From SkyReport (http://www.skyreport.com) (Used with permission)

[invaliduser88]

Oh course, Charlie will "be in negotiations" for a year before this channel see the light of day on Dish Network.

[Scott Greczkowski]

Im not so sure on this one. Charlie has a good thing groing with Discovery. I would not be suprised to see this one on Dish at launch.

[Jimbob]

Even if they didn't have room for it, they could replace the demo channel. I'd be happy. :)

[Adam Richey]

I really hope that Dish Network adds this cuz the HBO and Showtime are just HD versions of what's on the regular ones. At least this Discovery Channel looks like it will have it's own unique line-up.

[invaliduser88]

Looking more and more likely that I need to breakdown and buy that SW64 switch so I can point a dish at 61.5.

[DarrellP]

I really hope that Dish Network adds this cuz the HBO and Showtime are just HD versions of what's on the regular ones. At least this Discovery Channel looks like it will have it's own unique line-up.
I don't understand this statement. Of course the HBO and Sho HD channels are a mirror of the regular ones, so is CBS, ABC, NBC & PBS. That's what HD is all about, bringing us the old regular drab programming in eye popping 16:9 High Def.

I agree with you if what you are saying is "unique programming" not found elsewhere, but more than likely everything they show will have already been seen on the other Discovery channels.

If you want unique HD, tune into HDNET on Directv. I don't have it but wish I did, they have some fabulous programming not seen elsewhere.

[xxxx]

Discovery HD is testing on Satcom C4 Transponder 14

4DTV HD owners can visit the Owners Only section on 4dtvforum.com for further info

[Adam Richey]

I hope Charlie is smart enough to work out a deal for this one fast cuz it will make him look really good getting it on Dish Network immediately once it launches. I really like the Discovery Channel, so I want this.

[Scott Greczkowski]

Seeing that they have a new demo loop showing only on the HD PPV Channel featuring video from all three HD channels that they will be covering including Discovery Theater HD, it is a good bet that the Discovery HD deal is already signed.

I am told by a contact by Dish Network that there will be a big announcement at the beginning of June, I expect this to be the announcement.

Also I think this is one reason why the new demo loop is not being shown on the demo channel.

Remember you heard it here first :)

[Adam Richey]

Well, the beginning of June isn't far away. I hope that Discovery is the big announcement. If not, I want it to be that they are adding several more premiums and / or basic channels.

[Mark Lamutt]

Word is that Directv won't be picking Discovery-HD up anytime in the near future. If true, Charlie has a huge opportunity to draw DTV viewers away if he picks it up on June 17th.

[Adam Richey]

I agree, and it could be a big nail in the coffin if Charlie is able to get at least ONE of those HDNets up too before the end of the year. After adding Showtime for DirecTV, DirecTV and Dish are neck and neck in HD competition.