What the Deals are, and what are you being told by CSR?

[meta]

Hey all,

I am looking at signing up with D* sometime later this year after D10 starts broadcasting, so I am a new customer. Is this where I should start discussing the ordering process or is there another thread for new customers? :confused:

Thanks.

[RAD]

From http://www.tvpredictions.com/tivoupgrade080307.htm

"Mercer said DIRECTV is offering an upgrade program for HR 10-250 owners to switch to the DIRECTV-only HD DVR, the HR20. For $99, the HR 10-250 owner can get a new HR20, including installation. and relocation of the HR 10-250 to a different room if requested."

So anyone being told $199 or $299 to upgrade a HR10-250, tell the rep to call Mercer for the right deal;)

[M3 Pete]

Called back again today, just asked for an upgrade, and he offered me the free DVR and new dish without hesitation. In fact, he was telling me that since I've been with them over 5 years, I'm a "preferred" customer, or something like that, so that's why they are giving me the free HD DVR. He saw in the notes that I had been previously refused the free HD DVR.

I presently have an SD Tivo and an HD receiver (RCA), so he was apologetic that he could not get me two HD DVRs, assuming that I have two TVs. But since all of my stuff is hooked up to a single TV, I said no problem! So it's $19.95 plus tax, 2-year commitment, install is next Saturday.
.Install went great, although he wanted me to use a non-penetrating roof mount instead of attaching it to the side of the townhouse like my other dish, and all the other dishes around me. But we got that worked out and it works fine, both tuners record HD, signals come in fine except for transponder 4, which the installer said is normal. My old RCA HD box often had sync problems where the TV audio would lag behind the audio system, and you'd get an echo if both were on, but none of that so far.

I read something about the unit being noisy, and all I can say is those folks must have a bad unit. I replaced a Samsung 4040 SD Tivo unit that had an audible fan noise 24/7, and the tiny noise the HR20 makes is virtually inaudible in comparison. Once in my audio cabinet, it's virtually silent. The fan in my Samsung DLP is far louder.

The remote is going to take some getting used to from Tivo, and having the play, FF, and rewind buttons at the very top seems like a bad placement, since they are going to be my most frequent go-to buttons once I finish setting this thing up. But I'll be replacing the whole thing with a Harmony 676 once I get the time to program it.

Overall, I'm a happy camper. (knock wood).

[Bofurley]

Called this morning and this is the deal I received:
HR 20 DVR total cost 106.73, also 3 months showtime.
Install date of 8/17 between 8 - Noon.
New 5 lnb antenna and multi switch.
First time offer was $199, called back couple hours later and got the above deal.
Also keep my HR 10-250 HD.
I am very satisfied, probably could have done better, but did not want the hassle!
Bofurley

[mitchbart]

I have been a DirectTV customer for about 6 years. After reading the posts here - I called DirectTV and spoke with a CSR who offered me a $99.00 upgrade to the HR20 from my 16 month old owned HR10-250 but if I wanted to keep the HR10-250 it would be $199.00, that really confused me since I "own" the HR10. I then mentioned that I can been considering changing to ATT U-Verse who is offering two free DVRS (actually UVerse is still not directly in my neighborhood yet but neighborhoods with a few miles have it so its close). I then asked about taking to "Retention" and he transfered me - I explained the situation to the Retention CSR and he said they have no reason to take my HR10 and immediately offered me a free (+$19.95 S&H on credit card) HR20 and dish upgrade after reviewing my account and scheduled an appointment for this Friday.

Now I just need to sort out some cabling issues as I am currently diplexing OTA on one of my cable runs into the HR10-250. I wish the single wire multiswitch was already available that would solve the "cable" problem.

Mitch Bart

[Tubaman-Z]

DirecTV customer for 13 years. 1 antique original DirecTV (and USSB !) receiver, 3 DirecTiVos. Bought a Toshiba 60" DLP last December. Broke down today and called DirecTV for an HR20. $19.95 + tax, installation on Saturday 8/11, 2 year commitment. No threats, lies, innuendo about canceling service to the CSR. Apparently 13 years of being a good customer has paid off.

I will start the "HR20 Installation Tips" checklist tomorrow.

Thanks to this forum for the advice, hints, and tips.

- Kevin

[fizzicist]

I called in today and was told $199. I told the CSR that I had seen the information about the $99 price, and she finally agreed that I could get that. I was getting ready to see if I could do anything to get it for shipping (or less!), but decided to ask about availability of the SWM, since I want to keep the HR-10 connected in the same room and it has 2 drops (and I can't really run more). That kind of brought the discussion to a halt, since she didn't know anything about it.

She transferred me to someone who said they weren't installing them yet and to call back in a month or so.

I guess I'll need to decide if I'm ready to pull the trigger on it without the SWM, or if I think I should wait for it.

H.B.

[tmuirheid]

I ordered two HR20s to replace by 10-250s today and a new slimline dish. Both reps I spoke with were firm at a total price of $199. Was able to "talk them" into the following discounts:

- free Superfan ($99)
- three months free Showtime ($30)
- six months of discounts on Total Choice package ($60)

total of about $180 dollars of programming savings to offset my hardware. Not what some of you are getting but worth it to me. Install is set for 8/25 (hopefully).

FWIW - long time subscriber (A list), about $150 monthly bill, long time Sunday Ticket, etc.

[Bofurley]

fizzicist What is SWM?

[Michael D'Angelo]

fizzicist What is SWM?

SWM=Single Wire Multi

It will allow you to run one SAT line to a HR20 and be able to use both tuners. Plus you are able to diplexe OTA into the SAT lines which you are not able to do with a WB68 multi-switch. If you do a search for SWM you will find a lot more information about it and what else you are able to do with it.

[Bofurley]

BMoreRavens,
Thank you for your reply.

[Milominderbinder2]

DIRECTV customer for 13 years. 1 antique original DIRECTV (and USSB !) receiver, 3 DirecTiVos. Bought a Toshiba 60" DLP last December. Broke down today and called DIRECTV for an HR20. $19.95 + tax, installation on Saturday 8/11, 2 year commitment. No threats, lies, innuendo about canceling service to the CSR. Apparently 13 years of being a good customer has paid off.

I will start the "HR20 Installation Tips" checklist tomorrow.

Thanks to this forum for the advice, hints, and tips.

- Kevin

Here is that link if anyone else needs it:

HR20 Installation Tips (http://tinyurl.com/yb7fvj)

Also see the:

133 Undocumented Tips & Tricks (http://tinyurl.com/yswcpa)

If you are comping over from TiVo, see the:

TiVo Users Survival Guide (http://tinyurl.com/ydjtmw)

Also consider joining us in testing new software for the HR20 in the Cutting Edge thread (http://www.dbstalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=118).

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

Hey all,

I am looking at signing up with D* sometime later this year after D10 starts broadcasting, so I am a new customer. Is this where I should start discussing the ordering process or is there another thread for new customers? :confused:

Thanks.
This is the place and now is the time.

How crazy long will the delivery wait be once they start announcing one round after another of new HD channels? How many times an hour will you be seeing the SD channels promoting their new HD brothers?

How much free advertising will DIRECTV get as each new channel blast is announced?

Remember last fall when delivery times were 6 weeks? What will it jump to by September.

Just do it. Now.

- Craig

[wilmot3]

Well I am getting an HR20 for 19.95 I did what everyone said to do. At the prompt say " disconnect service." I must say I was actually ready to do it. I have had so many problems with the service. It is a shame that it had to come to that. If they would treat there long standing customers better we ( the customers) wouldn't have to resort to such drastic measures. I am not going to go into specifics of what they are going to do cause it would take so long to type. I will say they are going to install the system the way it should have been done a year ago. It is nice to know that I am not the only one who is disgusted with the CSR's. Now to any new customers I would say this there customer service sucks. They have forgotten were they started from and who is the most important, THE CUSTOMER!! If I didn't have so much time and money invested I would drop them. Maybe I am wrong but it is my thoughts and opinion.

[RichardL]

Got the $19.95 deal.

I called once - $299 no other offers
I called again - $199
I asked for retention, expressed my unhappiness at having to beg to replace a $1000 receiver through no fault opf my own, and was finally offered 'an early use of the upcoming legacy owner upgrade'

[40yearfan]

Just got off the phone with DirecTV. They are replacing my HR10-250 with the HR 20 this Friday (AM) for $19.95. Very friendly people and I did not even have to ask for the deal. This was the first offer. The guy said because I had come over to DTV when they bought out Primestar, I was entitled to special consideration.

I have a feeling that he was blowing smoke up my butt, but regardless, I'm not having to pay additional for the new HD programming.

[Trehutch]

I tried the e-mail route but once they finally got around to calling my like 96 hours not 48 like the e-mail said they wanted to offer me the $99 deal. I have 2 HD tivos and I said that is not acceptable since it is a lease and it is still theri equipment, but he wouldn't budge. $99 for each box plus shipping I said I would think about it and hung up, that was last night 8/7. I called today 8/8 around 4pm PST and talked to Matt. He was awesome here is what I got

2 HR20's Free
3 months Showtime, HBO, Starz, Free
HD Access 6 months, Free
5 LNB Dish, Free
Keep my HD Tivo's
19.95 shipping and handling charge

Last week this is what I got

Super Fan, free,
$10 12 month credit good customer award

All for $19.95

All I can say is be persistent. I love ya Tivo and will be happy to come back once a new box gets developed. Now the biggest battle will be helping the wife figure out the new interface, oh boy!!!!! :eek2:

__________________
T.
Family Room:
Sharp 46" LC46D92U
HD Directv Tivo

Bedroom:
Westinghous 37" 1080p set
HD Directv Tivo

Been with Directv since 1998

[scootcat]

First of all I used this forum a couple years ago when I signed up with directv and found it to be a great help. I used it again the other day when researching what reciever to get for my new hdtv & once again found it very helpful. I called directv & said cancel at the voice prompt... It took me to a rep named Ben I told him I wanted to cancel (even though I had no intention of it... you can't get sunday ticket anywhere else) he immmediately offered me a new HR20 for $19.95. I hope this is helpful to someone. Thanks

[Tubaman-Z]

DirecTV customer for 13 years. 1 antique original DirecTV (and USSB !) receiver, 3 DirecTiVos. Bought a Toshiba 60" DLP last December. Broke down today and called DirecTV for an HR20. $19.95 + tax, installation on Saturday 8/11, 2 year commitment. No threats, lies, innuendo about canceling service to the CSR. Apparently 13 years of being a good customer has paid off.

I will start the "HR20 Installation Tips" checklist tomorrow.

Thanks to this forum for the advice, hints, and tips.

- Kevin

If something seems to good to be true, it usually is. I started the "Installation Tips" checklist with a call to DirecTV today. While validating the equipment to be installed, I discovered that I was scheduled to receive the H20 receiver, not the HR20 DVR. (Thanks creator-of-the-checklist). After straightening that out, I am now getting the HR20 for $220 (apparently including shipping to the installer), saving $100. Not $20, but still better than $320. (FWIW - I don't have an HR10-250 to bargain with).

- Kevin

[JB3]

Just got off the phone with D*. First CSR I reached started by offering me an HR20 for $299. I declined. Her next offer was $199. I declined again. Next offer was $99. I told her I was willing to pay $19.95. She came back and offered $19.95 +$99 and a credit for $99. Almost a deal, but she insisted that I return my HD TiVo. Sorry, the box cost me $1,000 could I speak to retention please? Told retention rep what I wanted and that I was not returning any hardware. Couple of questions later and they offered the same $19.95 + $99 with a $99 credit. I keep all my equipment. Getting an HR-20, 5 LNB Dish & Multi Sw.:D Yes I know it's a 2 year commitment.:rolleyes:

Thanked the retention CSR and told her she could really improve the experience by offering customers the deals they were entitled to up front. Every time I call I feel like I'm walking onto a used car lot......(no insult intended to any used car sales folks).

[BARRYK]

I had been a D* sub for quite a few years, and I left them about two years ago because of their lack of a decent HD story (DVR and locals) at the time.

I've been getting the 'come back' mail fliers for a while now, and I finally decided to pull the trigger, now that the HR20 sounds pretty stable, HD Locals up for the 4 main networks, and with Speed HD coming in a couple months (plus Comcast just went and changed to the truly atrocious TV Guide software on their DVR).

Just got off the phone with retention, and got a slightly wierd deal - I wanted an HR20 for the bedroom, plus an H20 for the theater. They're charging me $19.95 for each one, but it will take two separate installations!! He said if they put them both on the same order, he'd have to charge me full price for the HR20, but if he did a separate order for the HR20 he could give it to me for $19.95. Pretty stupid on their part, considering how much the extra truck roll is going to cost them, but a pretty sweet deal for me (and of course I also get all the regular new user inducements - $10 off the package price for a year, free HBO/Showtime for 3 months, and the $100).

So the first install (new Dish, H20, plus hooking up an old SD receiver in the family room) is Monday morning, second is Wednesday afternoon. I'll let everyone know how it goes.

[jbholcombeiii]

I'm not a previous HD subscriber, however I want to upgrade to the HR20. I've been a member since around 1999 and had the NFL package ever since. I called a CSR who was helpful, but could only get the $299 deal :beatdeadhorse: . I gave him the speach about a free DVR HDTV combo from Comcast, but still no better offers. He did say to "ask your friends about the product codes they used to get the great deals." Interesting :grin: ! On the Directv website, on the Update Your System section, there is a place to put in offer codes. Maybe this is what he was mentioning. Also, the CSR explained that some great deals are on the horizon and to be persistent. My deal is that I want the HR20 before the football season for as cheap as I can get it. Should I go for the "cancel service" approach or look for another way?

[GCoop]

Called today: 2nd attempt for upgrade HR10-250 to The HR20.

1st attempt = 119.98 installed with $10 credit for 12 months. Net cost not adjusted for interest -.02. Told them I didn't necisarily want to front the $120 and I would think about it.

2nd Attempt = Initially the CSR told me it would be $299. After explaining I was told it would not cost me anything she proceeded to tell me that D* does not give anything away for free. Immediately asked to speak with some else since I have "Neighbors" with an Identical set-up that just got it for no cost. Was transferred to a "Floor Supervisor" according to the lady that I was transfered to. Explained my reason for calling and getting transfered to her and she told me the price was correct @ 299 but since I was a good customer offered me the 19.99 shipping deal. She thouroughly explained that this would be a leased unit and most likely be refurbished. She did offer me an outright purchase since all my other equipment is owned for $799. :confused: I politely declined.:nono: Not one to ever accept a first offer I asked about getting the 19.95 shipping charged waived. She looked at my account history and said that she could do it by charging me the shipping and immediately crediting it back. Checked my account online and that is exactly what she did. :D

Install set for Sept 10th
Chalk one more up @ the "little or no cost" level.:biggthump

Hope sharing my experience can help some of you out.

[stevendsnyder]

I made my second attempt today after seeing a local add from Time Warner Cable for a free HD DVR. Talked to the D* rep, who said the best the system would allow her to do is $199 for a MPEG4 DVR receiver. I explained the TWC offer and she said my best bet was to talk to another department (Retention). She transferred me and I again explained the TWC offer and was looking for what D* could do to match that offer. After a few minutes, he said he could get me a HD DVR for free with a 2 year extension. I asked if there was a chance to get the second H20 box upgraded to a HD DVR. After trying several ways of entering the order, he came back and said the system would not let him do it. I agreed to just upgrading the 1 box and he said they were backed up about 10 days for installs. After a few more keystroked, he said because of my status with D*, he could get an installer to my house Saturday morning. I was pretty happy with the deal. Keep trying until you get an agent willing to work with you.

[MikeR]

Should I go for the "cancel service" approach...

Only if you are really ready to cancel. Try again, it's been stated here before - be nice, and eventually you may get what you want.

[Old Guy]

Two HR20's, 3 months of Starz and 3 months of HD with new dish install

$99.00

Install this Saturday. Will update.

[desulliv]

Have been lurking, but joined because I will be getting 2 HR20s on Saturday. I posted this on the other forum, but thought I would post order experience here, as well.

Decided to call last night to see what was available to upgrade two HR10-250s. CSR said $199 apiece plus $19.95 shipping. I said I didn't want to pay that much so I would wait to see what HD channels were added before upgrading. Then she asked me if my H20's had B-Band converters; I said yes. Then she said she would transfer me to someone in retention that could offer a lower price. I don't know how we jumped from one subject to another, but I said that would be fine.

Retention CSR looked at my account (Customer since 2/2002; NFL ticket; superfan; NBA League pass; multiple receivers) and said she could offer 2 HR20s @ $99 apiece, but she would credit the $198 and only charge $19.95 shipping. As she was entering info onto the account she said she would waive the shipping charge for a total charge of $0.00. Includes second 6x8 multiswitch. She said I keep the HR10-250s, but two-year commitment will start over. I just kept saying "Uh huh", "Okay", as she was knocking off charges.

Seemed like a fair deal so I took it. Tech coming out Saturday morning.

[fredandbetty]

:goodjob: Have been lurking, but joined because I will be getting 2 HR20s on Saturday. I posted this on the other forum, but thought I would post order experience here, as well.

Decided to call last night to see what was available to upgrade two HR10-250s. CSR said $199 apiece plus $19.95 shipping. I said I didn't want to pay that much so I would wait to see what HD channels were added before upgrading. Then she asked me if my H20's had B-Band converters; I said yes. Then she said she would transfer me to someone in retention that could offer a lower price. I don't know how we jumped from one subject to another, but I said that would be fine.

Retention CSR looked at my account (Customer since 2/2002; NFL ticket; superfan; NBA League pass; multiple receivers) and said she could offer 2 HR20s @ $99 apiece, but she would credit the $198 and only charge $19.95 shipping. As she was entering info onto the account she said she would waive the shipping charge for a total charge of $0.00. Includes second 6x8 multiswitch. She said I keep the HR10-250s, but two-year commitment will start over. I just kept saying "Uh huh", "Okay", as she was knocking off charges.

Seemed like a fair deal so I took it. Tech coming out Saturday morning.


WOW!! Now if I only needed TWO HR20's..................

[Coffey77]

Have been lurking, but joined because I will be getting 2 HR20s on Saturday. I posted this on the other forum, but thought I would post order experience here, as well.

Decided to call last night to see what was available to upgrade two HR10-250s. CSR said $199 apiece plus $19.95 shipping. I said I didn't want to pay that much so I would wait to see what HD channels were added before upgrading. Then she asked me if my H20's had B-Band converters; I said yes. Then she said she would transfer me to someone in retention that could offer a lower price. I don't know how we jumped from one subject to another, but I said that would be fine.

Retention CSR looked at my account (Customer since 2/2002; NFL ticket; superfan; NBA League pass; multiple receivers) and said she could offer 2 HR20s @ $99 apiece, but she would credit the $198 and only charge $19.95 shipping. As she was entering info onto the account she said she would waive the shipping charge for a total charge of $0.00. Includes second 6x8 multiswitch. She said I keep the HR10-250s, but two-year commitment will start over. I just kept saying "Uh huh", "Okay", as she was knocking off charges.

Seemed like a fair deal so I took it. Tech coming out Saturday morning.

:welcome_s to the Forum! I had to call in the other day and I think it's now mandatory that they ask you about the B-Band converters as it'll be going live soon if not already. :)

[falken]

:welcome_s to the Forum! I had to call in the other day and I think it's now mandatory that they ask you about the B-Band converters as it'll be going live soon if not already. :)

I was activating a new receiver last night and she asked me about the B-Band converters, we got into a little conversation and I found it kind of funny she had no idea what they were or why we needed them, but, "we are suppose to ask everyone with HD receivers if they have them and installed and notate the account that they do or enter an order to have some shipped out".
You would think they would at least make sure they knew what they were for. :)

[Bofurley]

My HR20 is scheduled to be installed on Friday 8/17. My question is on checking my order on the internet, there is no notation about needing the Zinwell WB 68 multiswitch. Should I call DTV about this? The order detail shows:
HR20 and 6-lnb multi-satellite dish. I also informed the CSR that I would need a pole install which is also not on the order!
Thanks to all for any help.
bofurley

[Michael D'Angelo]

My HR20 is scheduled to be installed on Friday 8/17. My question is on checking my order on the internet, there is no notation about needing the Zinwell WB 68 multiswitch. Should I call DTV about this? The order detail shows:
HR20 and 6-lnb multi-satellite dish. I also informed the CSR that I would need a pole install which is also not on the order!
Thanks to all for any help.
bofurley

If I remember right I don't think the WB68 shows up on your online order. But I would call to check to be sure though. Also when the installer first gets there question him about making sure he is going to install the WB68 and if he says no it is not on the work order call DIRECTV right away so they can get it worked out.

[or270]

When checking your order online usually the multiswitch does not show up, but it wouldn't hurt to call and double check if you want. You also might get the installing company phone number, to check with them on the pole mount, I was told that it takes 2 service calls because they have to wait for the cement to set. And ask the cost because it is not a standard install.

[short]

I wanted to upgrade to HD which meant I I was looking for an HR20 and a 5LNB dish. Programming upgrade to a HD package and SF for Sunday Ticket. After reading the deals here I hoped to get the HR20 for $99.99 + shipping and free SF.

I called on 8/8 and asked about upgrading to HD, got the $199 + 19.95 shipping offer (same as what I saw on the website in my account). No offer for discounted programming or credits. Told the CSR I'd have to talk to my wife.

Called today, 8/10 and was offered the same deal, but then I asked if they could do any better. She put me on hold and came back with an offer of a FREE HR20 + FREE ship, but I still would need to pay for SF and HD. I jumped at that -- the cost is the same, but the distribution is just different.

I'm happy with that deal, especially based on my current commitment and programming situation.

EDIT TO ADD: I didn't threaten to go elsewhere, cancel, or mention the competition, just asked if they could do better.

For reference, I have just over a year left on my commitment and subscribe to TC+ with 2 premiums. I've subscribed to ST since I started with D* about 6.5 years ago. Never paid late.

[jbholcombeiii]

I'm not a previous HD subscriber, however I want to upgrade to the HR20. I've been a member since around 1999 and had the NFL package ever since. I called a CSR who was helpful, but could only get the $299 deal :beatdeadhorse: . I gave him the speach about a free DVR HDTV combo from Comcast, but still no better offers. He did say to "ask your friends about the product codes they used to get the great deals." Interesting :grin: ! On the Directv website, on the Update Your System section, there is a place to put in offer codes. Maybe this is what he was mentioning. Also, the CSR explained that some great deals are on the horizon and to be persistent. My deal is that I want the HR20 before the football season for as cheap as I can get it. Should I go for the "cancel service" approach or look for another way?

After 4 calls I finally go the deal I wanted. :goodjob: I was sent to customer retention because I mentioned the offers by Comcast. I tried the email route 3 times over the past 8 days with no results. I received a free HR20 (I had to pay shipping) and received an additional $40 off my NFL Sunday Package. The $40 off the NFL Sunday Package is a new incentive.

I think what also made a difference was my previous 2 year committment was to expire on 8/16/07.

[Pat1955]

Here's my deal. After 3 trys. Got 2 HR20's for free. Had to pay the $19.95 S/H on each, so for $40 upgraded to HR20's. Very happy. The "Cancellation Specialist".....He told me that's what the retention department is called now, entered it on two separate orders, the only way it would work. I made the suggestion to him based on information from everyone here. Thanks for your help!!

[JorgeGVB]

I e-mailed them last Sunday that I wanted to know when my commitment ended and that my local cable company offered me a free HD DVR to switch and I was thinking of switching. I got a response that I would they would contact me within 48 hours and that my commitment period expired already. Five days later DirecTV finally called back. I was not home and they left a message to call 800-824-9081 and they gave me a pin number to use.

I called back and they offered me a free HD20 upgrade from my TiVo HD DVR, but I would have to pay $19.95 S&H. Then, without asking, he said the would give a $10 a month credit for 1-yr so I would not actually pay anything.

Then he tells me they only have 1 installation opening this month left for this coming Monday from 8-12 and did I want it, so I said yes. I ask him if I was eligible for any other discounts or specials and he put me on hold. He comes back and says he will also provide me with HD Access for 1-yr for free

Hopefully, the installation goes this easy!

[nhlfan79]

After unsuccessfully trying the email route about 10 day ago, I made my first call to D*, using the main number. Finally talked to a CSR and I (playing dumb) asked him if my HD TiVo would receive the new HD channels. He said yes, *if* I had the BBCs attached. I told him that I was pretty sure that that was not right, and he put me on hold which eventually disconnected me. I twice called back, tried to go through the "equipment upgrade" phone menu, but it kept disconnecting me.

Finally, I called a fourth time and did the say-cancel-at-the-prompt thing (no intent to cancel, just wanted to talk to a human), and got to speak with the most uninformed retention rep I've ever spoken with. After telling her about being disconnected three straight times, I again did the play dumb thing, and after putting me on hold for at least five minutes, she came back and told me that my HD TiVo wouldn't get the new HD channels. I said "oh," and let an awkward amount of silence pass. (Great bargaining tip, BTW). She then offered to upgrade one of my older receivers (I ended up telling her to replace an SD DirecTiVo) to an HR20 for $19.95. I never even had to haggle on price. Customer 4+ years, TC+ w/locals, NHLCI, HD pack, protection plan, three receivers. Average bill $75ish.

Install is this Monday AM from 8 to noon.

EDIT: Oh, I forgot to mention that this was for my second HR20.

[herkulease]

I'm on my 5th attempt.

Its now 199.99 + shipping for 2 hr20s.

How are some of you getting them for just the shipping cost?

My bill is about 85 a month without the NFL package. They even expect me to pay to replace the leased hr10 which I've complained about. Thing keeps hanging all the time that I am forced to unplug it.

Are the people others calling the ones where you have to enter the PIN number or are you calling the main line and asking for retention.

[Stlrmike]

I'm with Herkulease. The best I have been able to do is knock $100 off with no shipping charges, but that just gets me to the $199 total for one HR20-100! I have been with them for almost 10 years and have had the Sunday ticket for the last 5 years. How the rest score such great deals is a mystery for me. :scratch:

[gsr2is300]

Thank you for all of the help posted in this thread. It has been very helpful.

Here's my story,

I called yesterday, said "cancel" at the voice prompt, and expressed concern over having to purchase another receiver after purchasing one 2 years ago. The retention specialist was very helpful and looked at the deals available. She said I could get the receiver free and pay the $19.95 for S&H.

Now here is the kicker, she was unable to schedule an appt. for me online and told me that an installer would call to make an appointment. Today an automated system called my house and prompted me to schedule an appoinment within the next week. I tried a couple of dates and no luck, eventually the system kicked me back out to DTV customer service. The CSR informed me that the first available appointment was 9/23....9/23! I live in the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina and I am quite amazed at the delay.

The CSR said that I could call back to check for cancellations to get my appointment bumped up. Do you all have any advice for getting the install bumped up?

[AlbertZeroK]

Thank you for all of the help posted in this thread. It has been very helpful.

Here's my story,

I called yesterday, said "cancel" at the voice prompt, and expressed concern over having to purchase another receiver after purchasing one 2 years ago. The retention specialist was very helpful and looked at the deals available. She said I could get the receiver free and pay the $19.95 for S&H.

Now here is the kicker, she was unable to schedule an appt. for me online and told me that an installer would call to make an appointment. Today an automated system called my house and prompted me to schedule an appoinment within the next week. I tried a couple of dates and no luck, eventually the system kicked me back out to DTV customer service. The CSR informed me that the first available appointment was 9/23....9/23! I live in the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina and I am quite amazed at the delay.

The CSR said that I could call back to check for cancellations to get my appointment bumped up. Do you all have any advice for getting the install bumped up?

I was able to bump mine up a week. First, make sure you get your appointment scheduled for sometime, anytime. Now, you might be able to do this online, not sure.

Once you have your appointment scheduled. You just log into your directv account online and click on view orders. Then there should be a reschedule button you can click on to see what dates are avaiable.

The only down side to this is that alot of the time, appointment rescheduling does not work online. I would try during non-peak hours like in the morning or late at night.

Installation companies will add additional people to work more if the installers want to pick up an extra day, etc, so it's not unusual for extra days to show up earlier than 9/23. But it is luck of the draw in the end.

[paulman182]

From what I am seeing here, paying electronically may have something to do with the deals you get. I've only been with D* for a year, but my payment has never been late and always been done manually by computer.

I just got my second HR20 for cost of shipping. The first one was free, after programming discounts were subtracted.

[RichWNJ]

got 2 HR20's and new dish install all for $40. HR20's to be mailed to me. I also get to keep my 2 HR10's

I just called and asked about upgrade to hr20 and this was the offer they gave. I had 1 year left on my commitment

[aktick]

Well, just got off the phone with "Sal." I've been with DirecTV 11 years, ~$90 bill each month, 2 HR10s.

Offer for 2 HR20s was: $105 upfront cost, DVR service free for 1 year ($72), HBO free for 6 months ($78).

What do you think? I'm not too keen on paying that much upfront, but in the long run it doesn't look that bad. I probably wouldn't keep HBO after Entourage/John are over, but with the new HD HBO channels, it might be a better deal.

I currently have a $10 monthly credit, not sure when it's going to run out, as an HD package credit.

Not a bad deal, the thing that irked me was Sal kept telling me this offer is good for one time only, take it or leave it right now. But for some reason he made note of his offer on my account anyway, just said I probably won't get that deal again when I call back. :rolleyes:

Wish they didn't make us beg and threaten to leave to get the best available offer. :(

[RAD]

Well, just got off the phone with "Sal." I've been with DirecTV 11 years, ~$90 bill each month, 2 HR10s.

Offer for 2 HR20s was: $105 upfront cost, DVR service free for 1 year ($72), HBO free for 6 months ($78).

What do you think? I'm not too keen on paying that much upfront, but in the long run it doesn't look that bad. I probably wouldn't keep HBO after Entourage/John are over, but with the new HD HBO channels, it might be a better deal.

I currently have a $10 monthly credit, not sure when it's going to run out, as an HD package credit.

Not a bad deal, the thing that irked me was Sal kept telling me this offer is good for one time only, take it or leave it right now. But for some reason he made note of his offer on my account anyway, just said I probably won't get that deal again when I call back. :rolleyes:

Wish they didn't make us beg and threaten to leave to get the best available offer. :(

I would have taken it, yea there's an upfront cost but you end up making money on the deal.

[NFLnut]

My bill is about 85 a month without the NFL package.



Cheapskate! :lol:

I WISH I paid $85 before Sunday Ticket! I've got nearly $30/month on ya (~$115/month).

[kwasmo]

Hi all. Just joined. Been reading what everyones been asking dtv for so I figured I'd give it a shot. I"ve been a dtv sub since 1999 with the premium package and NFL Sunday ticket. I told the (very nice lady) on the phone that Dishnet was giving HD DVR's for no cost to new customers. I asked her if she could match it and she said no problem sir. I then asked about getting free super fan to go with my NFL package and again she said no problem. I then asked about getting 10.00 off my bill for 12 months and again no prob. I did however have to pay 19.95 shipping on the dvr and sign on for 2 more years. I didn't plan on quitting in 2 years anyway so I am a happy camper. :D :lol: :) ;) :p :hurah:

I am scheduled for Aug 22

By the way I pay about 159 a month for Premium channels, Sunday Ticket, DTV protection plan, HDTV plan and a bunch of extra receivers
@4.99 a pop.

[EaglePC]

am I missing something here HR20's they keep telling me 299.00
I even said I going to Dish,they say ok ,I wanted to downgrade they say ok

[jhollan2]

I posted this on another thread in the main discussion forum but I was offered a free HR20 yesterday because of NFL sunday ticket while returning my R15. He said that I was "entitled" to one, even though I have one already. I'm not sure if its because I opted to pay for the whole thing outright back in May, but it seems easy enough to pay it off now if thats the case.

[kajasedai]

Two different calls to customer service and the best deal they would offer was 299.99 + 19.95 shipping. I finally asked for retention and they offered the HR20 for free + 19.95 shipping. Install is Wednesday. Several people have received a better deal but I'm happy with this one.

[jwalker95]

I just called and said "cancel". The representative gave it to me for S & H ($21.12) and scheduled installation for th efollowing day. I got an H20 to replace an H10.

At the beginning of the conversation, he did ask why I wanted to cancet and I told him that I purchased the H10 less than 2 years ago and I felt that I shouldnt have to pay for this one. He didnt even pause, he just said that they would get me one for free.

Jeff

[DaBearsfan]

OK So a week ago last Friday 8/3 I spent an hour with D* on the phone and thought I had the HR20's locked up. I was offered 2 HR20's to replace my HR10-250's for $213 and then various credits to get me back to $0. Told them I would discuss with my wife and get back to them. He noted the account.

Well I called back Last Tuesday and the CSR said that the previous rep had noted the account but that they were H20's not HR20's :eek2: ! ( I was surprised as I had reviewed the deal with the first CSR when he noted the account.) She said that I likely would not want that deal (Ya think! :rolleyes: ) and transferred me to retention. The retention rep must have been having a bad day as she was quite surly and she said that she would offer me one HR20 at $99 and the other was $299. No credits or anything else!. I got her down to $199. And left it at that.

I called back on Saturday and said Cancel at the voice prompt. Got to a very nice retention Rep named Mike. I explained what had happened and that I was not happy spending 2 hours on the phone and the offer got worse when I know that people on this forum are getting better deals.

He put me on hold and came back and said that he was offering me one HR-20 for $0 and the other was $99. But he would give me a $99 credit for Superfan and then he offered free HD service for 12 months. And of Course a new slimline dish and a Zinwell mutiswitch. I took the deal as my main goal was to get HR20's for $0. I am a happy camper!! I Just wish this was not so darn random.

Unfortunately the first Install date was 9/3. Because of travel schedule I had to schedule 9/8. The CSR put me a on a list for a call back if anything opens up. I will check on-line occasionally to see if anything opens up. Looks like they are getting busy with the new bird about to go on-line.

[HolyRoses]

I am a long time DTV sub, probably 7-8 years now and the best deal the CSR would give me was $299 for a HR20. And this is with 8 recievers and premier package all this time too.

So I called my local cable company to get some facts about the price of their HD-DVR, which was $14.99 + $6.99 for HD receiver. Kinda pricey but ok, least I had some ammo.

I called back and talked to a differenct CSR who transffered me to a CRG operator. They gave me the $99 + s/h deal with included hr20, au9 dish, wb68 switch. She said was able to get this deal because I already had a hr10-250 on my account and this was the deal I was illegible for.

I already have the dish and switch installed though. I was told I could keep the extra dish and switch if i wanted them. I could of fought I guess for a lower price on the setup, but I figure I can sell the dish and switch and break even.

Think the installer will have a pretty easy job. However I just did some more reading and there is some things I didn't do. I didn't use SBC wire, I used CCS wire (opps). I didn't use compression fittings as I have gads of outdoor/indoor fittings and I dont have a tool yet for compression. I also didn't have a 4 port grounding block on hand, so I didn't ground the system either, well I grounded it inside from the switch.

I think the whole lease thing is sorta ridiculous imho. Having to pay up front $300 for a system and then just turn it and get nothing back? I'm not buying a car here man.

Though for cable I figured out the costs for 4 HD-DVR. In one year you have to pay $1053 with charter cable for rental fees. *ouch* DTV is really the way to go if you have a lot of equipments. Keep your old stuff too!


-HR

[aktick]

Finally got what I wanted...talked with Natalie, who was quite helpful. Got 2 HR20s for $19.95 and 3 months of HBO free. I think one of the reasons I was having such a hard time getting what I wanted was that I have a $10 credit on my account yet, which I think is going to run out in a month. Made getting any credits to my account impossible. I was thinking about just getting one HR20 now and the other once that credit was over, but just decided to get it over with.

Actually it's overall not quite as good of deal as I was offered before, depending on how you look at it - previously was offered $120 up front with HBO free for 6 months ($78) and DVR service free for a year ($72). -$30 net vs. -$19 net. But for that small difference I'll take the lower out of pocket up front.

[coit]

Well, maybe I'm luckier than most, but I called, said 'cancel' and got a really nice guy who got me the receiver for free (my 1st HR20), was able to give me Superfan for free with Sunday Ticket (maybe everyone can get that?) and I got my choice of install days this week.

Hopefully the install will go as smoothly as the ordering did.

[40yearfan]

OK, so I got a new HR20 last Friday to replace my old HR10-250. It's actually much easier to use and wonder of wonders, my wife loves it. Since she spends a lot of time in our bedroom watching TV, she thinks we should have an HR20 in there also (I presently have an H20), but I only have one lead going to the bedroom.

I have a Zinwell WB68 multi switch with some open terminals, but this is going to mean a trip into the attic and fishing an extra wire down the wall. And in Arizona where I live, going up into the attic during the summertime is not an attractive proposition.

I've noticed some rumblings on here about a one wire installation for a DVR. Does that require special equipment?

[EaglePC]

199.99 getting somewhere,maybe i try in a few more days

[gphvid]

I have been a lurker for a few weeks seeing what people have gotten as offers and I finally took the plunge and did the email route. My email stated that what I wanted to do is to upgrade to HD with a HR20 and also get the new dish and multiswitch and then also try to get another HR20 as well at the same time for a second HD set I have.

I've been with DirecTV since about 3 months (I forget what year they first appeared), longer than 10 years, and my dish is still the one I got out of the Circuit City box when I bought the generation 1 system, and I have kept my account up to date all this time and only had one offer during that time, that being the R15 DVR which I currently have and that works great.

I received a phone call Saturday evening to call the 800-824-9081 number which is for the "disconnection dept" number. I was out of town with the family, so I tried tonight, and the offer given to me by the rep was: HD upgrade w/dish and switch and HR20 DVR all for 19.95 plus HD service waived for 12 months. I'd have to wait a certain period of time for the second HR20 which she did not tell me how long. But net on this would be just 19.95.

So what do you think? Shall I wait it out and try again for 2 HR20's? Or go with this? I'd like to get the second HR20 to go with the second HD TV I have. It would seem a waste to not get it...

[MikeR]

I'd have to wait a certain period of time for the second HR20 which she did not tell me how long. But net on this would be just 19.95.

So what do you think? Shall I wait it out and try again for 2 HR20's? Or go with this? I'd like to get the second HR20 to go with the second HD TV I have. It would seem a waste to not get it...
Sounds like a good deal. but everyone has to decide that for themselves. I believe the period is typically 6 months, but not always...

I was impatient, and called for my 2nd one a while back. Knowing I would pay near full price, but had to ask...I got the second for $99 when I signed up for ST (+free Superfan). I was satisfied at the end of the day, and wasn't going to push it.

[EaglePC]

I'm always home watching TV me retired.
is having a HR20 a better picture then my H20 or is it for recording mostly

[gphvid]

It is for time-shifting (recording). Replaces using a VHS machine. My schedule is in the evenings so I miss many shows I like to see, and using the DVR allows me to see them whenever. Just the flexibility is attracting to me.

Going with another HR20 for the second TV would allow both sets to be similar in connection. I could go with an H20 I guess, but then I would not have the time-shifting ability. So I was trying to just get the two sets to be set up the same. And it would allow me to move some of the stuff my daughter likes to see to another set so she could watch what she wants to watch when I want to watch "Big Love" or "Jekyll" or something she doesn't.

[Big Worm]

Long time subscriber to DirecTV. Called this afternoon to see what I could get. The rep told me right away that I could get a swap out deal for 99.00 + 19.95 shipping. I bitched for a little bit, and she still said that the best she could do is 99.00 with no shipping but would give me 10 credit for a year and I could still keep the HR10. Figured that was not a bad deal, so I took it. I am scheduled for August 23rd.

I figured it was not a bad deal since last year I got the HR10 for free and basically I am getting the HR20 for free after a year.

[JorgeGVB]

I e-mailed them last Sunday that I wanted to know when my commitment ended and that my local cable company offered me a free HD DVR to switch and I was thinking of switching. I got a response that I would they would contact me within 48 hours and that my commitment period expired already. Five days later DirecTV finally called back. I was not home and they left a message to call 800-824-9081 and they gave me a pin number to use.

I called back and they offered me a free HD20 upgrade from my TiVo HD DVR, but I would have to pay $19.95 S&H. Then, without asking, he said the would give a $10 a month credit for 1-yr so I would not actually pay anything.

Then he tells me they only have 1 installation opening this month left for this coming Monday from 8-12 and did I want it, so I said yes. I ask him if I was eligible for any other discounts or specials and he put me on hold. He comes back and says he will also provide me with HD Access for 1-yr for free

Hopefully, the installation goes this easy!

My install started out poorly. The installer did not arrive between my 8-12 appointment time. I called D* around noon and they made a call and said he would be there by 1:30. Well 1:30 came and went and no installer. Called back a 2nd time around 1:40 and they said he was en route to my home. The installer calls me about 2:35 and says he is on the way. Since I have waited all day and its 3:15, I have to leave for an appointment that cannot push back any further, so I have to leave the wife in charge of overseeing the installation. Installer finally arrives at 3:30.

Installer tells my wife the pole my old dish is mounted to is too narrow for the new slim-line dish and it will be $75 for a new pole. Wife panics and calls me to talk to him. Installer decides my 6x6 fence post that is set in concrete would work just as good and is right next to the pole and he could mount it to the post at no extra charge. Probably more stable than the pole, so I agree to mounting it on the post. Installer installs a HR20-700 and completes the job without any problems. He installs all the correct parts during the install and he does not take my HD TiVo either.

I played with the HR20 last night and I am pretty pleased with it overall. Not a TiVo, but it has some updated features I like. I especially like the feature where you can still watch a program while viewing your list of recorded shows. The caller ID feature is pretty neat too. The only thing I really dislike is the TV grid, I just do not like the horizon bar style.

[nhlfan79]

I'm glad I oversaw my install. They showed up on time, but that's about all the two guys (one obviously was in training) did right. I already had an AT-9 from a previous HR20-700 install, so I'd bet this was supposed to be their easiest install of their day. They disconnected my HR10-250's component connections, but hooked up the new HR20 using COMPOSITE cables and left the component cables and digital audio cable dangling from the back of my TV! Finally, as I'm doublechecking their work on their hookup of the HR10 on a different TV (also wrong), they already had called to activate the new receiver but never put me on the phone to confirm their work to the CSR (I've never not had to talk on the phone to confirm the install). Anyway, when I went online to check my account later last night, they had never deactivated my older SD TiVo as they told me they had done! In fact, one of the guys told me it would take a "couple of days" for my account to correctly reflect only three receivers. So that took another 20 minute call last night to fix.

Happy with the new unit (HR20-100) though. Seems to have a stronger OTA tuner than the HR10-250.

[Firefighter]

Hey guys, I just got my HD TV and have been a subscriber to DirecTV for 4-5 years now. I am debating on subscribing to their HD because of their Compression.

Anyways, I called them yesterday about upgrading to HD, and they wanted $299 for the DVR receiver and dish and install. The CSR said he would give me a $5 credit for a year and free HD package for a year, plus I have to renew my subscription for 2 years.

Should I be able to get the equipment for free plus free HD package ? What DVR receiver should I tell them I want? Any other freebies you guys think I can get?

Also, will they in any way allow me to upgrade to HD without doing a new 2yr. contract ? I hate to do it, because Comcast here is goint to be offering HD sometime. Don't know when though.

Thanks for the input !!

Tim

[5parrotts]

so, my husband found this forum last night and came home with a plan for me for his birthday.....since i'm the negotiator with people, he gave me the info on the HD from D*...we've been with them for 4 yrs...i checked out cabe and dish and called them this morning to 'inquire' about getting HD-dvr service for 2 tv's....he checked to see if we qualified for any discounts which he found we did not and that the HD-DVR would cost $299. i told him that was crazy and i had neighbors that had gotten it for free through them, and also that cable would give me 2 free hd-dvrs plus i'd get their internet service for what i pay D* and they always offer money to dump the dish. he couldn't help, i said i've been with you for 4 yrs and you can't help, who do i need to talk to about disconnect and equipment pick up? he put me on hold, then transferred me, she got my name and asked why i was leaving, i told her the same spiel....she then told me that she had 'access' to promotions that customer service does not. that's when she gave me 1 hd-dvr for the shipping cost of 19.99 and $10 off my bill for one year, which covers the service of 9.99 a month and the 2 yr commitment, and they are installing tomorrow. so happy birthday to my hubby and thank god i don't have to rack my brain over what to get or kill him for spending 300 bucks just to see a football game SUPER CLEAR. so thank you all and good luck to those who go forth and save!:lol:

[ziggy29]

Figured that was not a bad deal, so I took it. I am scheduled for August 23rd.
Good grief. I just ordered my HR20 yesterday and I couldn't get an install appointment until September 12.

[RAD]

Good grief. I just ordered my HR20 yesterday and I couldn't get an install appointment until September 12.

FYI, don't forget you'll need an over the air antenna for KXAN-DT since D* and LIN are still fighting over retransmission rights.

[ziggy29]

FYI, don't forget you'll need an over the air antenna for KXAN-DT since D* and LIN are still fighting over retransmission rights.
Is that always true for that station, or only if I want HD? I should still be able to get KXAN in SD, wouldn't I? I don't watch enough on that station to warrant an OTA antenna installation just for that. Not sure how well I could get an OTA signal where I am, anyway, well over 50 miles from Austin as the crow flies.

[Milominderbinder2]

Firefighter,
1. The HR20 MPEG4 compression is really nice. The coming 70 HD channels, then up to 100, then 150, will be MPEG4.
2. The only ones getting free HR20's are the people stuck with HR10's who will have to upgrade. Even they often have to still pay $99.
3. If you keep calling you MAY be able to get a better price. At the voice prompt say cancel and have the competing offers ready to discuss. Be nice. Don't make threats. Your offer is already discounted $180.
4. You have to extend your contract 2 years to get an H20.
5. The HR20 is technically leased not purchased.

Regardless...

There are going to be a couple hundred thousand panicked HR10 owners in about 4 weeks.

They will see all the HD ads plastered on every channel: Get DIRECTV and have 70 HD Channels!

They will try to get the new channels but will only get their same old 10 MPEG2 channels not the new MPEG4's.

They will call DIRECTV and the CSR will tell them they need an HR20.

Some areas are up to a month for installation already.

If you still can, do it now. First find out if installation is still possible any time soon.

See the links in my signature below for making sure you get a good install, Tips & Tricks, etc.

Good Luck, Tim.

- Craig

[DishCSR]

Moved about three weeks ago in SoCal.

Suspended account.

Today=new sub NFL Sunday Ticket deal+5LNB dish at new house+FREE HR20+keep my owned HR10 and other owned units.

Install Saturday.

I hope you are not expecting the existing recvrs to be installed on saturday.
new customer orders do not include installing existing recvrs. so you will have to either install them yourself, or have another "install only" work order created after your new account is activated.

My guess is that, the direct sales agent ( if you went through direct sales), lead you to believe your existing equipment will be installed on saturday...please let me know if i am right in this assumption.

[DishCSR]

OK So a week ago last Friday 8/3 I spent an hour with D* on the phone and thought I had the HR20's locked up. I was offered 2 HR20's to replace my HR10-250's for $213 and then various credits to get me back to $0. Told them I would discuss with my wife and get back to them. He noted the account.

Well I called back Last Tuesday and the CSR said that the previous rep had noted the account but that they were H20's not HR20's :eek2: ! ( I was surprised as I had reviewed the deal with the first CSR when he noted the account.) She said that I likely would not want that deal (Ya think! :rolleyes: ) and transferred me to retention. The retention rep must have been having a bad day as she was quite surly and she said that she would offer me one HR20 at $99 and the other was $299. No credits or anything else!. I got her down to $199. And left it at that.

I called back on Saturday and said Cancel at the voice prompt. Got to a very nice retention Rep named Mike. I explained what had happened and that I was not happy spending 2 hours on the phone and the offer got worse when I know that people on this forum are getting better deals.

He put me on hold and came back and said that he was offering me one HR-20 for $0 and the other was $99. But he would give me a $99 credit for Superfan and then he offered free HD service for 12 months. And of Course a new slimline dish and a Zinwell mutiswitch. I took the deal as my main goal was to get HR20's for $0. I am a happy camper!! I Just wish this was not so darn random.

Unfortunately the first Install date was 9/3. Because of travel schedule I had to schedule 9/8. The CSR put me a on a list for a call back if anything opens up. I will check on-line occasionally to see if anything opens up. Looks like they are getting busy with the new bird about to go on-line.


I would be willing to bet that the 2nd retention rep also ordered 2 h20's, not 2 hr20's, especially because of the 99.00 cost of the '2nd" one, trust me i've been seeing a lot of this happening, (I'm not a regular csr, I take sup calls)

[Firefighter]

Firefighter,
1. The HR20 MPEG4 compression is really nice. The coming 70 HD channels, then up to 100, then 150, will be MPEG4.
2. The only ones getting free HR20's are the people stuck with HR10's who will have to upgrade. Even they often have to still pay $99.
3. If you keep calling you MAY be able to get a better price. At the voice prompt say cancel and have the competing offers ready to discuss. Be nice. Don't make threats. Your offer is already discounted $180.
4. You have to extend your contract 2 years to get an H20.
5. The HR20 is technically leased not purchased.

Regardless...

There are going to be a couple hundred thousand panicked HR10 owners in about 4 weeks.

They will see all the HD ads plastered on every channel: Get DIRECTV and have 70 HD Channels!

They will try to get the new channels but will only get their same old 10 MPEG2 channels not the new MPEG4's.

They will call DIRECTV and the CSR will tell them they need an HR20.

Some areas are up to a month for installation already.

If you still can, do it now. First find out if installation is still possible any time soon.

See the links in my signature below for making sure you get a good install, Tips & Tricks, etc.

Good Luck, Tim.

- Craig

Craig,

Thanks for all that info !!! I am going to call them here in just a little bit and see what they say. If they give me a good deal, I think I will take it and just wait and see what happens with Comcast. I thing DirecTV's cancellation policy is no more than $150.

I'll keep ya posted on what happens !!

Tim

[bohlke]

Just got of the phone with customer retention and they were willing to replace my Samsung HD receiver with a HR20 at no cost to me. She then proceeded to tell me that mid September I will no longer get any HD content on my HR10-250. She was very nice and seemed to know what she was talking about. I dont recall reading that I would not get any HD content on the old equipment after mid September? I asked her what would have happened if I didnt call and she said that they will start calling owners of HR10-250s and other legacy HD equip to provide a swap out. I hedged my bet and told her I would keep my HR10-250, she said I had the option to replace it in the future. The only bad news is that the install is two weeks out, thats going to make things a bit difficult.

[Firefighter]

I just got off the phone with DirecTV. The CSR I spoke with was very nice and a pleasure to do business with.

Here is what I ended up getting:

FREE HR20 Receiver
FREE Shipping
FREE HD Programming for 1 year
FREE DVR Service for 1 year
$10 Credit on my bill for 1 year
$50 Credit for an Over-the-Air antenna. ( I get to buy any I want from anywhere
and they will install it for free)
Everything installed for free.
Install date is set for Friday Aug. 24th.

I think I did good !!!!

Off topic - Can you guys tell me what thread to use to get help on getting the right type of antenna I need. The reason I need an OTA antenna is because DirecTV doesn't carry CBS in HD, and that is what the COLTS games are on. That is the only channel I want to pick up over the air until DirecTV comes to an agreement with CBS and carries it.

Thanks for all the info guys !!!
Tim

[mntentman]

I'm getting stubborn CSRs... I think. I did upgrade to a HR20 about four months ago, bought it at Circuit City and got a $200 credit. Now I want to dump my Tivo 250 for another HR20, but they noted the recent upgrade and said all they could offer was a $10 a month programming credit for a year. They would ship the unit but charge me shipping. Not good enough.

[bohlke]

Ok called them back (they gave me a direct number??) and a different guy said that my legacy HD equip would be good for a while but he did not know when the HD content would be exclusively on MPEG4

[DaBearsfan]

I would be willing to bet that the 2nd retention rep also ordered 2 h20's, not 2 hr20's, especially because of the 99.00 cost of the '2nd" one, trust me i've been seeing a lot of this happening, (I'm not a regular csr, I take sup calls)

Yeah, I hear that. And it is sound advice given my experience. I checked the order online and they are HR20's But the order says swap out So I have to call them when I get time this week and verify that I can keep my HR10's But since my install is not till 9/8 I have time!

[DaBearsfan]

Firefighter,
1. The HR20 MPEG4 compression is really nice. The coming 70 HD channels, then up to 100, then 150, will be MPEG4.
2. The only ones getting free HR20's are the people stuck with HR10's who will have to upgrade. Even they often have to still pay $99.
3. If you keep calling you MAY be able to get a better price. At the voice prompt say cancel and have the competing offers ready to discuss. Be nice. Don't make threats. Your offer is already discounted $180.
4. You have to extend your contract 2 years to get an H20.
5. The HR20 is technically leased not purchased.

Regardless...

There are going to be a couple hundred thousand panicked HR10 owners in about 4 weeks.

They will see all the HD ads plastered on every channel: Get DIRECTV and have 70 HD Channels!

They will try to get the new channels but will only get their same old 10 MPEG2 channels not the new MPEG4's.

They will call DIRECTV and the CSR will tell them they need an HR20.

Some areas are up to a month for installation already.

If you still can, do it now. First find out if installation is still possible any time soon.

See the links in my signature below for making sure you get a good install, Tips & Tricks, etc.

Good Luck, Tim.

- Craig

Very good advice to get your orders in!

I think folks are lining up now for the upgrades. At least here in the DFW area. When I was talking with D* early this month(on 8/3) They said Install was about 2 weeks. When I placed my order a week later the install was out about 3 1/2 weeks and because of travel I have to till 9/8 :(. The CSR motioned it had been getting steadily busier lately.

I checked online yesterday to see if any earlier dates were open (there was not) and it looks like they are out till Mid September here in DFW

[paulman182]

2. The only ones getting free HR20's are the people stuck with HR10's who will have to upgrade. Even they often have to still pay $99.

The ONLY ones? My second HR20 was $19.95 and an HR10 has never darkened my door. The forum is full of posts from people who got the HR20 for just the shipping fee.

Not to say everyone will be able to do this (because they won't,) but many have.

[TivoJack]

I just got off the phone with DirecTV. The CSR I spoke with was very nice and a pleasure to do business with.
.
.
.

Thanks for all the info guys !!!
Tim

what number did you call and what did you say to get to the CSR... or was it the
first person that you talked to?

jack

[smitty0255]

I just called and talked to a CSR who gave me the same $299 spiel. I told him that it didn't seem right to have to pay $300 up front for a leased unit and who could I talk to about canceling. I was nice about it, and he was helpful and nice, he just couldn't do any better.

He transferred me to a VERY nice retention rep who gave me the $19.95 shipping only deal. Unfortunately the 1st available install date is 9/5, but at least that is still before the 1st NFL game.

FWIW, I am a 5+ year customer with 3 DirecTiVo's. No HD until now.

[ziggy29]

I think folks are lining up now for the upgrades. At least here in the DFW area. When I was talking with D* early this month(on 8/3) They said Install was about 2 weeks. When I placed my order a week later the install was out about 3 1/2 weeks and because of travel I have to till 9/8 :(. The CSR motioned it had been getting steadily busier lately.

I checked online yesterday to see if any earlier dates were open (there was not) and it looks like they are out till Mid September here in DFW
I ordered my HR20 two days ago and the soonest I could get was 9/12. Just for grins I checked to see what would be available for rescheduling (in case there were cancellations earlier) and the first available was 9/23 -- six weeks out! From the 12th to the 23rd in two days...

[jonvoights_toe]

I currently have an HR-20 (got it at no cost in Jan), an HR-10 and a Samsung DirecTivo. I have previously called twice about replacing the HR-10. The lowest price I could get was $199.

Everytime I read this particular thread I decide to give it another shot. So, I called DirecTv again and prompted the computer with "cancel." This rep told me he could swap out the HR-10 with an HR-20 for $99. That seems fairly standard. I tried to get him to drop down to no cost using my usual points that I paid full price for the HR-10 just 3 years ago, I'm getting a leased HR-20, and I will extend my contract. He them told me that if I did this swap for $99 my contract would not be extended and that I would own the HR-20. This was news to me. Has anyone heard of these last two points?

Even with that, should I continue the CSR roulette or just take the $99 offer? I can't get programming credits (according to the rep) because I currently have a $10 monthly credit that made the first HR-20 free.

Thanks in advance.

[desulliv]

Yeah, I hear that. And it is sound advice given my experience. I checked the order online and they are HR20's But the order says swap out So I have to call them when I get time this week and verify that I can keep my HR10's But since my install is not till 9/8 I have time!
I think "swap" means they will put the HR20 where another receiver was sitting, but doesn't mean they take the other box. The other option is to move the other box to a new location. I just had two HR10-250s "swapped" (as noted on work order) for two HR20s. I still have the two HR10-250s--they didn't even ask for them.

[gphvid]

Okay, I called back again today and this time a guy named Brian answered and this is what he offered: 2 HR20 DVRs for shipping and taxes (19.95 + 1.45) for a total of $21.40. New dish and multiswitch and I keep my existing R15. Plus, HD service free for 3 months. Total cost for everything including install is just the 21.40, which I deferred to my regular monthly bill.

I can't get any better than that I think, so I took it. Install is scheduled for this Saturday from 1-5.

Sometimes it is best to try again.

[SabresFan29]

This forum is fantastic. So much valuable info. I've been with DirecTV for 2 years and no longer have a commitment. I recently purchased a Samsung LNT4661, so I needed to upgrade my system to HD. I called last night and after 2 phone calls (needed a 2nd to discuss the cost with the wife) received the following deal:

HR20 - $19.95 S/H
12 months of credits ($5.99 - DVR & $9.99 HD)
NFLST Super Fan upgrade free

It was pretty much hassle free. Just told them that I was evaluating Cable and FIOS and asked them for some concessions. When they gave some, I pushed further and got a deal that I felt was great.

Only downside is that I have to wait, like many others, until 9/7 for an install.

Thanks for all of the great info!

[ccorey123]

First off, I'd like to thank all those that make this forum such a great place for information. I was originally going to call D* on Monday, but then I decided to check around to see if there were any special promotions/deals to be aware of. This forum was recommended to me in another online user group and I've spent the better part of the week reading here. Great stuff. Thanks to the people who maintain the site and to all the folks who post here.

I've been a D* subscriber since 1998. Own 3 SD receivers including a Tivo unit I received from D* when I moved. After reading thru many posts, it seemed like the best deals were for those upgrading from the H10 (which was not my situation). I called in yesterday and got the usual spiel ($299 plus shipping, 2 yr. commitment, etc). Talked it over with my wife and then told her that she should call back since she has a much better way with cust service people than myself. She called yesterday afternoon, talked to a retention rep, said her husband wanted to switch to Dish since D* HD was going to cost so much. We got the HR20 free (shipping costs only) and 6 months free HBO. The rep also said the guy would be out today (8/16) to do the install. I'm almost a little skeptical based on what others are saying, but I live in the Chicago area and maybe they aren't as backlogged here. Crossing my fingers.

Thanks again for all the great information. Figure I would pass mine along too.

-Chris

[enixal]

Hello all - I called customer service last night and spoke to a CSR in the Phillipines - had a little trouble understanding her and she offered to transfer me to someone else - got a CSR in Idaho who speaks my brand of talk - cut to the chase - I explained the problems I had with previous install of slimline and ended up with a free HR20 (charged $19.95 for shipping that she credited back to my account), $10 credit on my bill for 12 months, and 12 months HD service for free - requested Saturday install (don't need dish but they are sending one anyway) - first available was 9/1 but didn't want to mess with Labor day weekend so am now set up for 9/8 - I'm pleased as punch - love this forum for the invaluable info

[gusbuf]

I called yesterday to upgrade my old Hughes DVR40 that is in my bedroom to an HR20-700. I had the best CSR I have ever spoken with named Ron. I asked him if their are any special deals right now for the HR20. He asked me "are you going to keep Sunday Ticket?" Seeing as I have already started the monthly installment payments, and love football, I said yes. He said, "Great! I can give you an HR20 for free!" I asked if I had to pay a shipping and handling fee. He said no, totally free. I asked if I can install myself, and he put in the note to just drop off the box. I already have two lines and a phone line installed, so all I need to do is swap those out, hook them up to the HR20 with the B-Band converters, and plug the HDMI cable into my TV,cCall D* to activate, and voila! I do not need the installer mucking around my TV trying to install himself.

[Volman]

This started a month ago(7/20).I had (2) HR10-250 DVRs(one owned).I called D* to try to get a deal on the NFL AND a new HR20 or better (2) HR20s.The best they would do was a $19.95 for HR20 and install......still full charge for NFL ST & Superfan.I decided to get the HR20 and Slimline installed.It was done(poor install-2 trips-late,etc).

Then I called and cancelled the NFL completely(retention rep).They offered NOTHING.Just said it would be cancelled with no hesitation.

My wife got a call 2 nights ago(8/14) with an offer of NFL ST+free Superfan for $189(haven't heard this figure before).She said that they would need to OK through me(I was not at home) and the said they will call back "tomorrow"(8/15).Of course there has been no call.

If they do call back,what are my chances of getting a second HR20 thrown in if I take the NFL(I still have an owned HR10-250)?

[trex021]

My upgrade went well for me.

First I called Comcast to get their best HD DVR deal. It wasn't that great, something like $79/month which included the DVR rental. I asked the rep if there was anything better because I am a current D* costumer buying my first HDTV. The best he could do is offer a phone / high speed internet / HD cable TV package for something like $120. He said the HD cable part of the deal came out to $55 / month. This was a one year deal.

With that info in hand I called D* and said "cancel" to the voice prompt and got right to a customer retention guy. I told him I just ordered my first HDTV and I was shopping for service. I told him that paying $199 for a leased receiver / DVR was ridiculous and Comcast would charge me $55 / month :rolleyes: and no up front money for the DVR . At first I thought I was in for a fight because he told me the HR20s true cost is $800 and $199 was a good deal. I repeated that I thought it was crazy to charge us so much for something we don't own. Then he said, "I can beat Comcast". Here was his deal:

Free HR20 700 DVR
Free shipping for receiver & slimline dish
Free Installation
1 yr free DVR Fee (I've been paying this for my SD Tivo)
1 yr free HD Channels
an instant $100 credit to my bill
3 month free HBO and Showtime

Though some of you did better on the HBO / Showtime, I still feel I got a great deal without much of a fight needed. My bill will actually be cheaper than it is now (no DVR fee) for the first year and I get $100 just for whining a little. My installation is in a week. Not bad...not bad

[c3p1]

Man, I can't get anyone to make a deal. I am in Baltimore and even though I have a good offer from comcast I have now been told 3 times the only offer they have for the HR20 is $199 plus shipping!
I will keep trying, but the Comcast deal runs out at the end of August. I really don't want to go back to Comcast. Not sure what to do anymore. I have been polite, shoudl I not be so polite?

[trex021]

Full disclosure: I have been a D* customer since 96 (I think) but I did leave for one year to take a teaser deal from cable. After the one year was up I came back to D*. No comparison in picture quality BTW. My point is, maybe I got the deal because of these factors:

I'm a long time customer that has proven he will leave if the price is right
I've never had HD service

WHat is your situation?

[c3p1]

I have been with D* since April 2004 with no interruptions. I have 2 receivers-one being a direct tivo. I do not have any premiums, just the middle package the entire time. I have not asked for anything from D* in this time but all my equiment was free and I got $10 back per month at the beginning for like 6 months and free showtime for 3 months back in april 04.
Paul

[ccorey123]

I have been with D* since April 2004 with no interruptions. I have 2 receivers-one being a direct tivo. I do not have any premiums, just the middle package the entire time. I have not asked for anything from D* in this time but all my equiment was free and I got $10 back per month at the beginning for like 6 months and free showtime for 3 months back in april 04.
Paul

I think it does depend on who you talk to, but as far as my situation (similar to yours although subscriber for a longer time), I called in and got the basic offer and then my wife called in the next day and said, "Look, my husband wants to go HD and he's going to switch to Dish because you guys want all this money upfront to lease a HD receiver." She also mentioned that she didn't want to switch because she liked what D* has to offer. That worked for us ... relatively quick and painless.

-Chris

[ccorey123]

One more thing - it wasn't very contentions (i.e., screaming and yelling and threatening to leave). She just laid it out for the retention rep - high $ to stay with D* vs. low $ and free upgrades to switch.

-Chris

[farmboy1]

Just got off phone for my second hr20 in 6 months and here is the deal I got with out any threatening

hr20 for $99.00 with $19.95 shipping-- NFLST and Supper fan and the Premier package for only $69.99 for the next 4 months same as new subscribers get and a $9.99 HD access credit for 4 months

the package I had before I called was the Plus HD DVR package for $69.99

I think this was a great deal

[thedonn]

I am confused about some of the deals I am reading on this last page (94). Has anybody gotten a "Deal" where you get an HR20 while simultaneously not going on a new commitment contract? I am currently not on any commitment. I can cancel at anytime. But currently I have the HD package but dont have an HD DVR. I have a HD reciever and an SD tivo. I want to get an HD DVR to replace my SD one. I was told by D* that it wont be any more money monthly for me as far as DVR service and channel package since its just replacing a receiver. But I dont want a new commitment, and I dont know if the deals most of you are talking about have the commitment or not.

[c3p1]

Thanks for the info. I will try calling again tomorrow and see what happens. I did say that I had a good offer from Comcast, but they didn't ask. I even asked questions about cancelling like do I need to turn in my receiver and dish, but just said no and that was it.
I will be a little more direct, but remain polite and explain the offer. I will let you all know what happens.
thanks for the replies. Paul

[BillPear]

I just got off the phone with "Fred" in what I believed was retention, explained to him the Verizon had been hounding me to go to FIOS since I already have there Phone/internet service, asked him how long I had left on my contract and what the buyout was. He asked what he could do to keep me I told him I wanted another HR20 and Sunday ticket Superfan, he said (after some "Checking") that he could give me a free HR20 but couldn't do anything on the Superfan, I said fine sign me up:D I told him he could just ship it since I have all the current hadware he said it had to be installed by a tech, so I said fine when, he says Saturday the 18th, I say fine:lol: , they couldn't ship it to me by then;)

Another satisfied customer:)

[sgmonroe]

Here's where I'm at. I had the HD package a few years back with a ReplayTV as my DVR. The HD receiver went bad and I had to pay shipping to replace it. A few months later, my locals became available but they were on the sep. satellite - thus - I needed a second dish to receive them. Nether of my receivers would work with this setup, so I was forced by D* to trade them out for D10s. Everything was fine until a software update disagreeed with the Replay. So I bought one of the first R15s (paid full price). Then I decided to get a 2nd R15 thru D* six months later. So here I am. I have a new LCD HDTV and I want back in.

After being on hold for almost 5 minutes while the rep asked a manager, I started to get my hopes up. Not expecting the world but maybe a deal. They came back and said the best they could do was $99 per unit with a 3 month payment. They would credit my account for shipping and credit the first payment. WOW! that's not bad all things considered.

So as we were verifying, she said they would send a new dish and 2 receivers. I said "no, you mean DVRs." "Oh, goodness no! We can't sell you those for that price. The best I can do on that is $299 minus shipping per unit. And that's final" - no thanks.

Guess I'll try again in a few days...

[falken]

But I dont want a new commitment, and I dont know if the deals most of you are talking about have the commitment or not.

If you activate a new receiver you will have a new commitment with two exceptions.
1) You are activating owned equipment (all of these deals are leased receiver deals).
2) It is a product protection plan replacement.

[thedonn]

If you activate a new receiver you will have a new commitment with two exceptions.
1) You are activating owned equipment (all of these deals are leased receiver deals).
2) It is a product protection plan replacement.

Thanks Falken.

[CliffV]

I just got a second HR20.

I first talked to a CSR who offered me one for $299. When I asked for a better deal, she transferred me to retention. Brett, from retention offered me $99+$19.95 shipping and handling. I noted that Comcast offered them for free. Brett went back to his manager and came back with an offer of free. I noted that it would be more convenient for me to hook it up myself and wondered if they could credit my account for $299 once I purchased and activated a receiver. He said that'd work.

I then mentioned that I need the HD programming. Brett hooked me up with 6 months free.

I then went to Costco and bought the HR20 for $269.

That adds up to $269 -$299 -$60 so they paid me $90 to have a new HR20.:)

I did agree to a 2 year commitment. Why not? I can't imagine switching.

[digitalfreak]

Bah. I just got off the phone with a CSR, who told me the best deal she could give me was $299 for the HR20, even though I've been a good customer for nearly 6 years. But I could get the H20 for just $99! LOL. Guess I'll try retention.

[Milominderbinder2]

Has anybody gotten a "Deal" where you get an HR20 while simultaneously not going on a new commitment contract?
No.

You will have a two year commitment. Commitments are not all bad.

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

Bah. I just got off the phone with a CSR, who told me the best deal she could give me was $299 for the HR20, even though I've been a good customer for nearly 6 years. But I could get the H20 for just $99! LOL. Guess I'll try retention.

This is dialing for dollars. Call during business hours. Say Cancel Service at the first prompt. Be courteous. Have you facts ready about any competing offers in your area. Also your package and past payment history are big factors.

- Craig

[digitalfreak]

This is dialing for dollars. Call during business hours. Say Cancel Service at the first prompt. Be courteous. Have you facts ready about any competing offers in your area. Also your package and past payment history are big factors.

- Craig

Called back and said Cancel Service. Got a very nice retention rep who offered me a $99 upgrade fee from my HR10-250 to a HR20. At first she wasn't willing to give me any breaks on upgrading my DSR-7000 (ie $299). Next offer was a $100 credit off the $299. I finally got her to drop it down to only $19.95 shipping on the second HR20 after I reminded her that I wouldn't have to pay any upfront fee for a cable company's box. Probably could have gotten her to drop the first HR20 to $19.95 as well, but I didn't feel like "negotiating" any more. :lol:

Final price
HR20 upgrade from HR10-250 = $99
HR20 upgrade from DSR-7000 = $19.95

Install is on 08/27.

[thedonn]

Ahhh I think I am understanding it better now. Why pay anything for something you cant keep. Either way they are giving us satellite tv that we are paying for. You cant use it without a box, why pay for the box if they take it back when you cancel. Makes sense. Im still weighing the option of trying to find a used but owned one on EBAY or just going with 2 more years and getting one sent like the last few peeps mentioned. In my case I wasnt doing the local channels for the last year +, instead pulling them from my OTA antenna. Part of the reason I want an HD DVR is to get some of that local content nightly when the new season starts instead of relying on my HDPC to record. Well either way all I know is having an older non DVR is a waste of money, I am not really using it for tv anymore.

[JeffMarg]

I have talked to D* twice about upgrading to HD DVR and they won't budge from the $299 upgrade price. I am still under my 2 year commitment, which may be a reason (just found out that when I replaced a defective DVR 6 months into my contract they reset my commitment for another 2 years - and they gave me a refurbished replacement DVR - but that is a different story...)

Since I am still under the initial commitment and upgrading from the R15, am I out of luck on getting a deal similar to what I'm reading about on here?

I have heard of competing companies paying the penalty for breaking a commitment to gain you as a customer - any truth to that?

Thanks!
Jeff

[ldhays]

Upgraded R-15 to HR-20, got 100.00 credit which brought the price down to 199.00 for the HR-20, plus got 12 months free HD service and 10.00 a month off of my program package for 12 months! Caught them in a good mood I guess, install happens tomorrow!

[Bofurley]

After waiting 2 weeks for the installation of the HR20, and scheduling it for this morning between 8 - 12, (and arranging my schedule to be home) I received a phone call from the installation company at 9:00 that they were out of stock, and expected a shipment of the HR20's next Wednesday the 22nd, they have rescheduled the install for Thursday August 23rd, that is assuming they have the shipments.
It looks like DTv would be aware of this!

[digitalfreak]

I have talked to D* twice about upgrading to HD DVR and they won't budge from the $299 upgrade price. I am still under my 2 year commitment, which may be a reason (just found out that when I replaced a defective DVR 6 months into my contract they reset my commitment for another 2 years - and they gave me a refurbished replacement DVR - but that is a different story...)

Since I am still under the initial commitment and upgrading from the R15, am I out of luck on getting a deal similar to what I'm reading about on here?

I have heard of competing companies paying the penalty for breaking a commitment to gain you as a customer - any truth to that?

Thanks!
Jeff

That definitely doesn't sound right. They should not be restarting your contract when they replace a defective unit. If they hadn't reset your contract, would you be out of the original 2 years by now?

[AlbertZeroK]

That definitely doesn't sound right. They should not be restarting your contract when they replace a defective unit. If they hadn't reset your contract, would you be out of the original 2 years by now?

You should have used your old access card in your replacement R15.

But no, your commimint has little to do with the deal you get. I've been under commintment all 3 times I've gotten free HR20's.

[trex021]

You should have used your old access card in your replacement R15.
Access cards are married to the unique receiver. Swapping cards doesn't work like in the old days.

[AlbertZeroK]

Access cards are married to the unique receiver. Swapping cards doesn't work like in the old days.

My understanding is that policy prohibits moving the cards, not the technology.

[keithsimp]

Just got off the phone with DirecTV. Swapping out all 3 receivers, 2 HR10's and 1 Sony HD200. Got 2 new HR20s for $99 apiece + $19.95 shipping, 1 H20 - free, new dish and installation - free. Total out of pocket, including taxes was $229.07. Intall is on the 29th of this month, could have had it earlier, but I'm in on hurry.
I'm a happy camper. Looking forward to the new HD line up this fall.

[dsm]

I have talked to D* twice about upgrading to HD DVR and they won't budge from the $299 upgrade price. I am still under my 2 year commitment, which may be a reason (just found out that when I replaced a defective DVR 6 months into my contract they reset my commitment for another 2 years - and they gave me a refurbished replacement DVR - but that is a different story...)

Since I am still under the initial commitment and upgrading from the R15, am I out of luck on getting a deal similar to what I'm reading about on here?

I have heard of competing companies paying the penalty for breaking a commitment to gain you as a customer - any truth to that?

Thanks!
Jeff

Like you, I'm still under commitment (because of a free HR20 upgrade in Jan 07). But I kept haggling and ended up accepting $150 credit + Showtime for 6 months free and I'll pick up the box at costco for $269 in tax free NH. Not as good as the others, but I did get the whole shebang HR20+slimline+installation+showtime for 6 months in Jan for free (not even shipping). I used the Comcast leverage at that time. So in total for 2 HR20's, I'm net $269-$150-$144(12 mo showtime)=$30 in my favor. And I was going to renew showtime for Dexter in Sept anyhow...

-steve

[trex021]

My understanding is that policy prohibits moving the cards, not the technology.
Policy and the technology Albert.

[Volman]

Got the $189 NFL ST + SF call again last night.Asked if I could get another HR20-100(Got my 1st a few weeks ago with Slimline/install-for $19.99) and the guy said he didn't know anything about receivers-was just giving me a one-time offer for NFL.I declined.

So I called D* this AM and politely told them I wanted a 2nd HR20-100(and told them about the NFL offer).They quickly said YES to a free receiver and gave me 4 months of the 99.99 premium package(which I already take).That's a $399.96 credit less the NFL/ST price of $69.99x4=$279.96.So they are giving me the NFL ST/SF + a HR20-100 and the net to me is a +$98.20!I'm getting "paid to upgrade" to a 2nd DVR.Persistence(and the NFL leverage) pay off.

[JeffMarg]

That definitely doesn't sound right. They should not be restarting your contract when they replace a defective unit. If they hadn't reset your contract, would you be out of the original 2 years by now?

No - I would still have about 9 more months, though. They have me at 16 months remaining. I guess I need to try to contest this... Thanks!

[gator5000e]

I am curious why people are getting charged shipping and handling. I was told by the CSR that my new HR20 HAD to be installed by a tech and that I could just do it myself, thus the unit gets sent to the local installer who comes by and hooks it up. Waste of money I say. But anyway, are some of you getting the units shipped to you for a self install (swap)?

Also, I have been with D* since 1994 and spend way too much money with them. I basically get everything except for the NBA package. They wouldn't budge off the $99 price for the HR20. But they said due to my loyalty (heck I am obligated to D* for the next 10 years, LOL), they would give me a year free HD Access. So not too bad. $99 box and $120 worth of free HD. I was happy. Had to go to a supervisor and argue a little bit to get that deal.

Anyway, let me know if you guys are getting the option to self install.

Thanks.

[c3p1]

I called back the 4th time and finally got the free offer. I am getting the HR20 fro S&H and 1 year free HD service. Which is what I was hoping for. So, I am with DTV for another 2 years---and liking it!
Thanks for everyones comments and posts!
Paul

[Milominderbinder2]

...I was told by the CSR that my new HR20 HAD to be installed by a tech and that I could just do it myself, thus the unit gets sent to the local installer who comes by and hooks it up. Waste of money I say. But anyway, are some of you getting the units shipped to you for a self install (swap)?...
They install it themselves because it is way cheaper. The self installs were just killing the HR20 in the early days. Endless Call Center hours and they ended up sending out installers in the end anyway.

Old cables, bad connectors, poor alignment, bad connections, crimps, too long of cable runs, and so many other nightmares.

Since they started insisting that they install it themselves, the number of "bad" units replaced dropped to almost nothing.

- Craig

[EaglePC]

HR20-700
I did all the installation.
payed 299.00 + state sales tax
had to return my H20-600 I payed 99.00 + state sales tax
6 month free showtime
4 months free HD + DVR
10.00 of each months bill for 1 year
that it folks

[gator5000e]

Thanks Craig. I figured since I was only swapping out the HR20 for the HR10 I could do it myself. I alreadyhave the 5 LNB dish installed so all the tech is going to do is unplug the TiVo and plug in the HR20. I will then have to wait for the next CE to update my box to proper CE standards!

[BobRiff]

I ordered an HR20 to replace my HR10-250 so I'd be able to receive the new HD channels when they come on. I also needed a new 5 LNB dish and the BBC converters. Total cost was $19.95 shipping and I get to keep (sell on Ebay) my HR10-250. Install was scheduled for yesterday afternoon.

Received my "new" HR20-700 via FedEx yesterday a.m. While removing it from the box, I heard something rattling around loose inside the DVR I also noted that the shipping box indicated that it contained a "reconditioned" unit, not a new one. They didn't tell me I'd be getting a refurbished unit when I ordered it. I looked at the bottom of the unit to see if I could take it apart and remove the loose component, but I didn't see any screws. I decided to just leave it alone and call DTV. I talked to a rep for a few minutes, then got cut off when she put me on hold. I called back and told my whole story to another rep. She tried to get in touch with the local company that was doing my install. They thought maybe the installer could "stop at his office and pick up a replacement DVR" before he got to my house. Naturally, the installer wouldn't answer his phone,so I had to wait for him to arrive and hope he had one with him. At least I didn't get cut off while I was on hold this time, so maybe my luck is changing. for the better...

About 30 minutes later, the installer arrived. I asked if his office had contacted him and he said they had not. I told him about the rattle and he asked if I wanted him to plug it in and try it anyway to see if it worked. I told him no, I wanted a replacement unit. He said I'd have to call DTV again and order the replacement.

Fortunately, he was able to install the new "5 LNB" dish and have it work with my "old" box until the replacement DVR arrives. At least I won't need to take more time off work to get the install finished. I'll be able to replace the box and get it activated myself.

Another 40 minute call to DTV and I THINK they finally understood what the problem was and agreed to send me a replacement unit. When I asked the rep if they could send me a new unit instead of a refurbished one, she said I'd have to pay $299 if I wanted a new one. I told her to just send me another refurbished one ($19.95 shipping), credit my first shipping charge, and pay for the return of the defective unit. During our conversation, she also mentioned that there would be a $300 charge if I canceled the service during the first two years; the rep did not tell me that when I placed the original order two days ago :mad:

I guess I should consider myself lucky that I can at least watch TV this weekend. Maybe I'll call them again after everything is working and try to get a few months of free HBO or something for the inconvenience...:)

[gdn]

Same story as most - but I will say I think it is all about the longer term customers that have some committment to Directv get a little easier deal - or maybe it really is just all about CSR roulette. Called the number - I did go the "Cancel Service" route. I got an offer from ATT Uverse and I told him I just wanted to see what Directv would do for me to not consider the ATT offer.

When the CSR found out I was in Dallas - he started asking about the Cowboys and football. We talked 15 minutes before ever looking at what the options were. So once we got to business I told him I had the HR10-250 - but I wanted to take advantage of the new HD stations coming. He took 30 seconds and came back with the standard - new dish, multiswitch and HR20 for $19.95 and he would give me the HD free for a year. I told him I was happy with that and he fixed me up. I did decide to ask about upgrading my plan - to add some other things like HBO and Showtime - but it is more than I want to spend and I just really don't have things there I really want to see - just thought I'd see if he'd offer a discount. When I told him that was too much I'd just stay with my current package he said that I had been a good long term customer and offered $10 a month additional off my bill for a year. I didn't say no.

So I'm pretty happy with the deal - it was actually more than I was hoping for - so I'll stay for at least 2 more years for the committment.

I will say I was shocked when it came to scheduling the install though. The same situation as others report - couldn't get an install before September 20 - a full month out. I have a feeling Directv is holding some number of slots each day for new customers as opposed to just upgrades - I could understand that.

One last thing - I just looked at Quicken and when I add up what I've paid Directv over the last 7 years I've paid DTV over $5500 for TV service and I've never had the full package or the NFL packages so I know many people have paid more than that. After looking at that amount - I think Directv should be able to ante up the new hardware with no up front charges - I have no regret calling to ask about a "What will you do for me offer" to keep me. The hardware investment they make is pretty minimal for what they make on customers that have been with them some number of years.

[c3p1]

One last thing - I just looked at Quicken and when I add up what I've paid Directv over the last 7 years I've paid DTV over $5500 for TV service and I've never had the full package or the NFL packages so I know many people have paid more than that. After looking at that amount - I think Directv should be able to ante up the new hardware with no up front charges - I have no regret calling to ask about a "What will you do for me offer" to keep me. The hardware investment they make is pretty minimal for what they make on customers that have been with them some number of years.


I agree with this. I had to call a couple times, but I just had a hard time paying a couple hundred dollars for the right to pay them more in a monthly bill. I know development and parts take time and money, but the real money they make is on the monthly bill.
I think we both won, I got the equipment I wanted and they got me, an overall satisfied customer, for another 2 years.

[ziggy29]

Since they started insisting that they install it themselves, the number of "bad" units replaced dropped to almost nothing. And in some areas, their wait time to get an installation appointment went up to a month or more. Not a good way to discourage people from doing it themselves.

[LineofSight]

I have been with D* since 1996. I own my current SAT-HD200 receiver. I sent D* an email a few weeks ago telling them that I have seen people posting the deals that they have been getting. I would like to get a similar deal. I told them that I was not going to play any silly games, like threatening to cancel my service or calling customer service multiple times. They called a few days later and said that they will give me a free HR20-700 for $19.95 plus tax and free installation of the system with a new 5 LNB dish. I mentioned that I had seen some people getting programming credits, so she gave me 6 months of free HD programming.
She did say that there would be a $4.99 per month charge for "leasing" the HR20 and $5.99 per month for the DVR service. I got to thinking about those charges later so I called back to D* to clarify. I will still only have the one receiver in my house after replacing my current unit with the HR20, so why is there a "lease" fee? They assured me that there will be NO lease fee if I have only one receiver in my house. It even says that in their customer agreement. I also asked them what the $5.99 per month gets me as far as the DVR is concerned. They told me that the DVR will not function unless they get paid the $5.99 per month. I assume they must turn on something. I currently have an old ReplayTV. I paid a premium for that DVR up-front so that I had a lifetime subscription to the downloaded program guide. Seems like I am already getting a program guide automatically to the HR20, so I am not paying $5.99 for that. I asked them if an HR20 that I might purchase online would work without paying the $5.99 per month. They said no. Anybody ever try that? Seems like it should work, unless there is some kind of software switch built in that disables the DVR functions until D* sends a signal down the line to turn it on.

[nikonosis]

I have tried calling Directv 3 times so far and have been transfered at least a dozen times and have talked to 2 or 3 people in retention. Right now I have comcast cable and I wanted to switch to directv but there is no way on earth I am going to pay $199 for a receiver that I get for free through the cable company. Directv keeps telling me there is no deal or no possible way for me to get the receiver for free like many of the people on this forum have said. I have tried emailing them but I have not received a response yet. How the heck are you people getting the HR20 for free? Do all of you already have directv and are just threatening to cancel if they don't give you one? Is there anyone here that has received one for free that is a new subscriber?

[Milominderbinder2]

LineofSight,

Welcome!

The HR20 has a $4.99 per month leasing fee. You do not own it unless you pay the full $799 price.

You also pay a $5.99 monthly DVR fee.

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

I have tried calling Directv 3 times so far and have been transfered at least a dozen times and have talked to 2 or 3 people in retention. Right now I have comcast cable and I wanted to switch to directv but there is no way on earth I am going to pay $199 for a receiver that I get for free through the cable company. Directv keeps telling me there is no deal or no possible way for me to get the receiver for free like many of the people on this forum have said. I have tried emailing them but I have not received a response yet. How the heck are you people getting the HR20 for free? Do all of you already have directv and are just threatening to cancel if they don't give you one? Is there anyone here that has received one for free that is a new subscriber?
First, Welcome!

As a newbie, you get an even better deal than a free DVR. You get the Premier Package for free for 4 months. That's a $400 credit.

In a couple weeks that Premier package will include 70 HD channels. If I had a choice, I would take the $400 package instead of another $199 off on the HR20.

Take the package and run!

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

And in some areas, their wait time to get an installation appointment went up to a month or more. Not a good way to discourage people from doing it themselves.
You can go to Costco and pay $269 and take it home today.

Unless you already have brand new cables, brand new connectors, a new 6x8 switch, and a new 5 LNB dish already in place, I would never suggest this.

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

Thanks Craig. I figured since I was only swapping out the HR20 for the HR10 I could do it myself. I alreadyhave the 5 LNB dish installed so all the tech is going to do is unplug the TiVo and plug in the HR20. I will then have to wait for the next CE to update my box to proper CE standards!
Well if you already have the new dish and cables...sometimes they premail the HR20 directly to the customer who may accidentially open the box and install it...

- Craig

[RAD]

LineofSight,

Welcome!

The HR20 has a $4.99 per month leasing fee. You do not own it unless you pay the full $799 price.

You also pay a $5.99 monthly DVR fee.

- Craig


I don't believe that you pay the lease charge for the 1st receiver (he said he would have only one receiver on the account). From http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/contentPage.jsp?assetId=P500014
"MONTHLY LEASE FEE. For a new DIRECTV customer, you will be charged a monthly lease fee in the amount of $4.99 per 2nd and each additional receiver leased by you in your household. For a current customer, you will be charged a monthly fee in the amount of $4.99 for each receiver leased by you in your household, unless you replace all of your owned-equipment with leased equipment, in which case, the monthly lease fee will be waived for the 1st receiver. Applicable taxes will apply."

[colebert]

Called August 5. threatened to cancel and was sent to retentions. They didn't care and said he couldn't give me a free DVR. Hung up empty handed.

Called two days ago. Came up with a new strategy. My story was that I was going to switch to Comcast with their "ditch the dish promo." I gave the retentions CSR the details (59.99/mo, free HD-DVR, free HD, HD locals, free HBO & Starz.) He asked if I would give him the chance to match. I said yes. Here is what I ended up with:

1. Free HD-DVR & 5-LNB Dish ($19.95 handling)
2. HD-DVR Plus Package @ normal rate
-- $10/mo recurring discount for 1yr
-- $9.99/mo recurring discount for 1yr
3. $150 one-time service credit
4. Free HBO/Showtime/Cinemax for 6mo
5. Free Starz for 3mo
6. NFL Sunday Ticket @ Normal Price
-- Free Superfan
7. MLB:EI @ Normal Price
-- Free Superfan

I hear these type deals are getting harder to find. So I was pleased to get what I got. Especially with the new HD channels rolling out. If anyone is considering doing this, you should act soon because D* will be "feeling its oats" once the new birds are up and running.

[falken]

First, Welcome!

As a newbie, you get an even better deal than a free DVR. You get the Premier Package for free for 4 months. That's a $400 credit.

In a couple weeks that Premier package will include 70 HD channels. If I had a choice, I would take the $400 package instead of another $199 off on the HR20.


Unless you have no interest in the Sunday Ticket, then it a $120 credit provided you wanted the all of the premium channels. Since Plus HD DVR is $30 less per month than permium if you don't want NFL sunday ticket what you really get is the movie channels free for 4 months. :)

[RyanX]

I got a ad in the newspaper yesterday for Dish that had free HD programming for six months and a free HD DVR. I called D* and asked the lady if they could match the offer and she put me on hold to check the offers that were available. When she came back she said that I could get the HD DVR for $299 or the regular HD receiver for $99 and those were the only deals that she could give me. When I asked if they would match the offer that Dish had she said that she couldn't but that the Retention department might have a better offer.

When the guy in retention picked up I explained the offer from Dish and told him that I didn't want to switch and was hoping he would be able to match their offer. He put me on hold to check my account info and when he came back he said he could get me the dvr and 6 month of free HD for the $20 handling fee. After I signed up he thanked me two or three times for sticking with Directv and not switching over to Dish.

I was just glad to be able to get the deal I wanted without calling a bunch of different times and threatening to switch...

[LineofSight]

My "free" HD DVR was installed today. Went well. Installer early. I helped him do most of the wet work in the attic. After he left I noticed that he installed an HR20-100 and not a -700. Isn't that the old model? I want the -700 model, don't I? I am about to call D* and ask them what happened. They definitely said I would be getting a -700 model when I ordered this. Maybe I will get something else for free because of my "inconvenience". We're such beggars.

[markman07]

My "free" HD DVR was installed today. Went well. Installer early. I helped him do most of the wet work in the attic. After he left I noticed that he installed an HR20-100 and not a -700. Isn't that the old model? I want the -700 model, don't I? I am about to call D* and ask them what happened. They definitely said I would be getting a -700 model when I ordered this. Maybe I will get something else for free because of my "inconvenience". We're such beggars.


Both are in production and the HR20-100 is actually the newer of the two.

[jsherm007]

I'm getting shot down left and right! Can't get a good deal swapping out the HR10. So today I resorted to filing a complaint. I've been a good customer for years, and I have the ST, SF, HD package, etc. So here's where I'm at:


To whom it concerns -

Re: DIRECTV account number: 05*******

I'm forwarding my BBB complaint with my experience with DTV customer service. I would have liked to resolve my problems with DirecTV directly, I tried over three phone calls. However that was not possible after multiple phone calls on 8/20/07. In light of the problems I was left with no option but to file a complaint in regards to unfair selling practices to help mediate the issue. I wish it was easy to deal with DirecTV's CSR's but that has not been the case.

DirecTV provides a superior television service, no doubt about it and that's why I want to stay with DTV. But I am upset that I paid $299 for a HD Tivo in May 2006 and it is now unusable with DirecTV's new satellite, Sunday Ticket, Superfan, BigTen network, etc. I am being asked to pay an additional $118.95 to get a receiver that will receive the signals. That totals $417.95 in the last 14 month time period on equipment, which is a lot. I know I'm saving money on my monthly bill vs. cable, but factoring $417.95 over 14 months is $29.85/mo that I'd paid towards equipment!

As I've asked previously, I just want a fair upgrade price on the obsolete equipment that other customers are getting. Please find a way to make this a reality.

Thank you,
JS

~~

Below is my complaint filed with the Better Business Bureau:

Thank you for using the Better Business Bureau's Online Complaint System.
Your complaint has been assigned case # 39******.
Correspondence regarding this complaint will be emailed to : me@yahoo.com
Please print a copy of this for your records.

Filed on : August 20 2007

Filed by :
JS
Address
City State

Filed against :
DIRECTV Boise Customer Contact Center
5800 N. Meeker Ave.
Boise ID 83713

Complaint Description:
I'm writing today because my HD Tivo HR10-250 is now obsolete. I paid a few hundred dollars for it last year in May 2006 and now it's not useable with the new stations. I called the CSR's and they are only offering me the upgrade for $99 + $19.95 s/h. None of them are willing to acknowledge the $19.95 upgrade offer that is found here:
http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=361301&page=5&pp=30

here:
http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=62089&page=95

here:
http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=93774&page=2

here:
http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=62089

All I want is a fair deal on a unit that I can use with my Sunday Ticket, Superfan and watching HDTV. Why are there so many games that are played with these offers? Why can't everyone get the same offer the first time? Please upgrade my HR10-250 to the HR20/HR21 for the price everyone else is getting. I'll re-up for two more years if that is needed, but I really think it's unfair to treat every customer different and have to call 5, 10, 15 times to get the deal that I should get with 1 phone call. I look forward to this issue to be resolved fairly.

Thank you,
JS

Your Desired Resolution:
All I want is the HR10-250 unit I have to be swapped out for the $19.95 price that other customers are getting from DirecTV on HR20-700's as seen in the links I provided above. There is no way that 100's of people have conspired together to lie about the offers they are getting from DirecTV. The offer should be fair to all customers and not a fight with the CSR's.

This case will be reviewed by a complaint specialist at the Better Business Bureau, and then forwarded to the business for their response. It is our policy to allow the business 30 working days to respond to your complaint. You will be notified when the business has responded.

[falken]

I'm getting shot down left and right! Can't get a good deal swapping out the HR10. So today I resorted to filing a complaint. I've been a good customer for years, and I have the ST, SF, HD package, etc. So here's where I'm at:

Really? You filed a BBB complaint because some people get discounts and others don't? Do you file a complaint when a neighbor gets a Best Buy coupon and they didn't send you one? When you ship a package with FedEx and find out that some other corporation get more of a discount than you do? Perhaps when you go the movies and discover children and senior citizens are paying less to see the same movie?
Really? Really? ... Really?

FYI: All 3 of my HR20's were free and are owned. Better include that.

[gdn]

Total abuse of the BBB system and a poor filing against Directv. Directv is doing business and delivering good service - you even say their service is superior and you like it and want to continue it. The deals Directv is offering are specials they feel they can and should offer long time subscribers that deserve them to stay.

Do I think you are one of those customers - probably from what you say - but if you really want it - then read several of the threads here - realize you've got to talk to retention not just any CSR, you've got to be polite - and you very well may have been, then you just have to express that you've received and seen offers from competitors and you'd like to know what Directv is willing to do to keep you as a customer. Chances are you'll get the "shipping and handling" deal - if you don't - then a second try, maybe third at most and you'll get what everyone else gets - if Directv believes your account truly justifies it.

Give them a fair chance - be nice about it and call the right numbers, and even then if you don't get it - maybe Directv has reason - ask the CSR or then ask for a supervisor.

[boku68]

Went the e-mail route. Got a call back with a pin. When I called I was all ready to negotiate, but she offered the $19.95 deal right off. Install in a week. Thanks everyone.

[SFS]

Long time lurker, first time poster. I have had an HR10-250 for several years, but finally decided to take the plunge for an HR20 and wanted to share my experience. I called the regular CSR and stated that I wanted to get an HR20. She initially quoted me a price of $299.00. I then asked if I could get a better deal. She put me on hold, came back, and said the best she could do was $199.00. Having followed the discussion here and on the Tivo community website, I knew this was BS. I was then polite but blunt with the CSR. I simply said that I have been with DTV for seven years, have subscribed to ST with superfan and have never been late on a payment. I then took a gamble and mentioned that I knew from this website that people were getting better deals. I also mentioned that when I got the HR10-250 it was with the understanding that an inexpensive swap to the HR20 would be possible once MPEG4 HD was available. Finally, I mentioned that although I had superfan I could not take advantage of the interactive features with the HR10-250. I told her I did not want to have to play the game of threatening to leave DTV and be tranferred to customer retention, but that I was aware that this was an option. She then said to me, "did you say you were thinking of discontinuing your ST and super fan subscription, hint, hint?" I took the hint and said I was frustrated and indeed was thinking of dropping ST. She paused, and then said I would get the HR20 and a 5LNB dish installed at no cost. I then got the confirmation # and am scheduled for the installation on 09/26/07. It was a bit of a hassle, but overall I am satisfied with the outcome.

[Bofurley]

I see on channel 77 that DTv is mentioning the H21 and HR21!
Has any one received a HR21 yet?

[herkulease]

I should be benched. or something. I'm 0 for 6. I now get 299 + shipping for 2.

What numbers are you guys calling? Is it the number where you have to enter a PIN number. Or are you guys calling regular CSRs and getting transfered?

I will try one last time in the afternoon and then I'll just cancel NFL ST, HD programing. since there's no point in having them.

[5thQuarter]

5 year customer (Total Choice Plus and ESPN Full Court...no HD service currently) with a just expired contract. I went the email route with E* offer. A CSR called me and I ended up going over her to a supervisor. In the end, I didn't get exactly what I wanted (2 free HR20s 10 off/month) ...but close enough for me to make a deal.

1 HR20 for 19.95 sh
1 HR20 for 299
$10 off for 12 months
1 month free service (51.99)
HD Fee waived (9.99) for 6 months
DVR Fee waived (5.99) for 6 months

[Milominderbinder2]

I should be benched. or something. I'm 0 for 6. I now get 299 + shipping for 2.

What numbers are you guys calling? Is it the number where you have to enter a PIN number. Or are you guys calling regular CSRs and getting transfered?

I will try one last time in the afternoon and then I'll just cancel NFL ST, HD programing. since there's no point in having them.
Go to the DISHnetwork.com site and get the details on the free 722 plus 6 months free HD. That's 37 HD channels today and a 500 GB hard drive instead of 300.

Call the main number: 800-531-5000. Say Cancel Service at the first prompt. That puts you to retention. Tell them the DISH and local cable offers. Call during business hours. Be courteous. Also your package and past payment history are big factors.

- Craig

[kallen]

i just called to try to upgrade from my hr10 and they offered without me asking to upgrade for 19.95 and said i could keep my hr10

[nikonosis]

If I were to order directv, would they put the $199 for the hddvr on my bill or would I have to pay that upfront before the installation and all that? Can the $199 be broken down into payments?

[cortty]

4 year subscriber, 2 phone calls, got HR20 + H20 for $99 broke up into 3 monthly payments. Got $10 off programing for 6 months + 3 months free dvr fee. Over all pretty happy.

[Mike__P]

Is it normal to have an extended wait for install? When I was on earlier with the CSR (retention I think), he said the install would take place Thursday 8/23. They just called to confirm the appoinment and pushed it out to October 5th!

The deal I was told was install HR20 / H20 & new dish and cables at no cost to me. I have been a long time customer with multiple sports packages and I own a Hr10-250 and samsung SIR=160. He also said I keep the old equipment as a spare.

I was happy with the deal until I found out I have to wait until October!

Tampa/St Pete market btw.

[Basye]

Our deal: 1 free HR20 (minus shipping for $21 and change); 6 months free HD service; 6 months free Showtime.

This was offered via a customer care email after I sent them a note inquiring if there were any deals for good customers.

[DaveTheWave]

I finally pulled the trigger and after speaking with 4 individual reps I got:

$19 S&H
$299 HR20
HD Access Fee waived for 12 months
3 months free showtime
Moved from old total choice to Choice Xtra $2 more a month.

I should have HD DVR in time for regular season SAINTS football.

[EaglePC]

is 299.00 really worth the price and you do not own it ?

[hokie93]

Can i install a 5lnb dish myself cause i dont wanna wait till oct to get it installed.

[Basye]

is 299.00 really worth the price and you do not own it ?

IMO, no it's not.
Precisely why the most I could justify paying is 20 and change, knowing they are making their money through programming fees.

[Tonedeaf]

So my HR10 decided to stay on the welcome screen last week and would go no furthur. I called in to Directv and they are sending me a replacement, which is an HR20.

The D* rep told me I would not have to return it and that I could do as I please since it was not functioning.

My question is, with all you can do to the HR10's, could I try and re-install everything onto a new Harddrive and try to resurrect it?

If I can get it working before the HR20 gets here, should I just leave the receiver active? What will they say when I activate the HR20 and not disconnect the HR10?

I only had to pay the shipping for it.

[DaveTheWave]

is 299.00 really worth the price and you do not own it ?

So what if I don't own it? I'm not leaving D* anytime soon. D* has Charter beat. They have E* beat. I'm never going to get FIOS in southeast Louisiana.

What are you going to do with it if you did own it and you left D*? Sell it on ebay? What happens if you own it and it dies on you after the warranty?

The whole lease/own issue is bunk.:nono2:

[HD30TV]

Well, I just sent D* a 'heavy-worded, yet polite/nice as possible' email (explaining having been a customer with them for a long time/had many receivers-dish combos/not wanting to have to pay full price to upgrade/noticed other good deals out there), to see if I can "strong arm" them into something better than paying the full $299 price.

Will see if anything comes of it.

Question... is there a mandatory 2+ week wait on installation? If I can get something of a deal on upgrading, I start a 10.5-day vacation at about 3:15p on Thursday... would be swell if could get an installation appt setup next week. I don't live in a metropolitan/BIG city, or suburb, either so I spose that will work against me. Near 2 areas that weakly resemble those descriptions, but 30 mins to an hour away.

[AlanSaysYo]

Signed up for the site just to contribute to this thread :D

Perhaps I'm a schmuck but I had an ethical issue with calling D* and just immediately threatening to cancel. I had no intention of canceling and have almost a year left on my committment (reset when I moved and had them install my equipment... DON'T let them do that for you, but that's another story). I definitely wasn't going to pay $100+ to buy out my committment, and I certainly didn't want to go to cable and lose Sunday Ticket.

Anyway, I'm a 3+ year subscriber, and I have had Sunday Ticket + Superfan all three years, 4 receivers, 1 H20, 1 HR10-250, 1 DirecTivo, 1 junk Philips SD, HD package, and DVR service.

I called and spoke to a regular CSR and simply asked for an upgrade to a newer box with a newer dish. I was offered an HR20 and 5LNB dish for $99, and since I didn't really have any leverage and wanted to get it taken care of and done with, I took it. I'll be keeping my HR10-250 and probably selling it on eBay.

Free would have been nice, but as long as I get to keep the equipment I actually own, $99 is acceptable. I suppose I could have argued and been transferred to someone else, but I didn't feel I was necessarily owed a free box.

The idiots will be climbing around on the roof 9/1, although the first date I was offered was 8/30. I'm pretty happy with that considering I'll have the box before the new channels go live, the regular NFL season, and the fall network season.

Does the HR20 come with the RF remote? The D* website says the RF remote is backlit, but it looks exactly the same as the regular one... is that true?

[RyanX]

Did you get the H20 or the HR20 for $99? The standard deal price is the H20 for 99. If you wanted a dvr you might double check that..

[AlanSaysYo]

Oops, that was a typo. It's definitely the HR20. I just left the 'R' out.

[or270]

Comes with the RF remote but not backlite.

[mhking]

Question... is there a mandatory 2+ week wait on installation? If I can get something of a deal on upgrading, I start a 10.5-day vacation at about 3:15p on Thursday... would be swell if could get an installation appt setup next week. I don't live in a metropolitan/BIG city, or suburb, either so I spose that will work against me. Near 2 areas that weakly resemble those descriptions, but 30 mins to an hour away.

There seems to be -- I bought my HDTV two weeks ago, and after four different reps got the HD DVR for $19.95 S&H, with the free install. They gave me a date of this Thursday. Then, this weekend, got word of a death in the family, and had to call to reschedule since I won't be here. They gave me a new install date of 9/3 (Labor Day).

When I tried to call 'em back and ask if there was anything sooner (our travel plans changed, and I'll actually be here Thursday after all), they said no. After a bit of grousing about waiting an extra two weeks, they offered six months HD Access for free for my trouble. (that wasn't the intent, but hey -- I'll take it)

[rbpeirce]

I finally called DTV about upgrading my HR10 to an HR20. The CSR said it would cost $99. I told her that wasn't acceptable. I had been told it would be free and besides Comcast and Dish are both soliciting my business offering free hardware. She switched me to somebody else (retention?) who offered the upgrade for $19.95 + tax AND threw in 12 months of free HD programming. I had read they were doing stuff like that but I couldn't believe it would be that straight-forward and easy. They really seem to want to do whatever they can to hang onto business. I should have had my wife call. She probably would have got us two years of free programming!

[nikonosis]

Is there anyone here that can answer my questions? Sorry, I am just trying to decided if I should get D* now or wait.

[sanborn13]

Just called today to get 2nd HR20 to replace my HR10 and was told $299 with the HD programming fee waived for 12 months. Will call back again tomorrow to see what they offer as it seems others are getting better deals. Been with D* for 6+ years, they should do something better.

[or270]

If I were to order directv, would they put the $199 for the hddvr on my bill or would I have to pay that upfront before the installation and all that? Can the $199 be broken down into payments?

The payment can be broken up.

[nikonosis]

The payment can be broken up.

Does it just go onto the bill?

[or270]

For current customers yes, new customers not sure what deal did they offer when you called?

[herkulease]

I didn't exactly get free but after so many phone calls I got tired and took what they gave me.

2 hr20/21 and 1 h20/21, plus new dish. about 120 including tax and shipping. I hate taxes. No programing credits though. I'll whine for superfan like next week.

but works out to be 40ish. It was a lot better than what I had been quoted in my previous 6 attempts. cheapest I got them to go down to was 99 per hr20/21 and I had to buy h20/21 in stores.

And I get installation date tomorrow. No need to wait. week or more.

[mediaboy]

Well I am a customer since 04. They offered me 100 credit off the HR20 and 1 month free service. Nothing to write home about but I have not been a lucrative customer either - just total choice and dvr + 1 sd receiver.

I am seriously considering cable though. A lot cheaper and I dont care about 100's of HD channels I wont watch.

[d max82]

My bill is consistantly $200 + a month, last month it was even $370. (Sunday ticket MLB EI+premier, PBTV) Best I've got is 99 for a H20, 299 for a HR20 plus 19.99 for handling.

Better off going to best buy and picking one up.
Plus I've been on hole for 35 minutes now to"cancel service". I think I know how they keep their customers. ;)

[Insomniac2k]

CSR told me $300 + $20 shipping and $9.9i/mo for HD.

Transferred to retention (I assume), told them the same story, getting an HDTV soon and was calling to find out my options to get HD service. Immediately offered HR20 for $19.95. Was also told I can't get 2 free (I didn't even ask) but they could note in my account that I can get a second one free in 6 months. Also offered free HD service for one year. I can't get HD locals (Wichita, KS locals are not available). They double checked and offered an "outdoor antenna" for $49.

I mentioned a friend got $10 off/mo for 1 year, free DVR service for 1 year and a one-time credit of $50 to offset the antenna. They were amazed at all that and basically said there's no way they could do it. They did add the $10 off/mo for 1 year.

I then inquired about NFLST SuperFan and they said they could do that. They noted it in my account and now I have to think about it all and decide.

My question is, should I be getting a free OTA antenna since I can't get the HD locals? I can't believe there are no HD locals. I'm 18-24 miles from the towers and antennaweb has me all confused. My stations are yellow or purple. All UHF. Not only that, but 3.1, 10.1 and 24.1 are located 19.0-19.3 miles from me and at 202 - 204 degrees and 3.1 is purple and the other two are yellow. How is that possible when the 3 towers are basically in the same spot?

[M.Wong]

I am somewhat new here, lurking for the past month, asking questions only about coaxial cable and the physical install of a 5LNB AU9… but I just want to suggest that a long standing history with D* may make a huge difference.

For those who are upset, or complaining to the BBB, I can say my very attractive Customer Retention deal was offered with no resistance... but I have had my two (owned) HDVR2s and a dual LNB dish service at this address for the past seven years, and no late payments (with automatic bill pay since they started offering it). At my previous address I had a single LNB RCA dish back when Radio Shack was the premiere authorized dealer for the 18” dish. This was before dual tuners and DVRs were available, popular, or affordable.

All I did was e-mail Customer Service and told them I was (finally) interested in HD. (I know, I’m a few years behind the times…) I asked if they could compete with my local cable company, and I described what their last junk mail flier had to offer.

I was immediately called, and they offered an HR20-100, a new 5LNB dish, and basic installation with new multi-switch. In exchange for a two year commitment, all that was for no charge. Not even the $19.95 service or handling fee.

No, I didn’t push it. I didn’t ask for DVR fees, HD fees, or other monthly discounts for the next few months. I felt their Customer Retention Department offered me a fair deal after being a loyal customer. With the free equipment offer, since I already have a DVR, and I am replacing one of the old Hughes TiVo boxes (and not adding an additional receiver in the home) I am only paying the $9.99/month HD fee above my current bill.


(Side note, from reading the boards, I think this is rare… their installer did a top notch job. Arrived early in the time window and did an amazing custom install on a post for me away from the house for a very reasonable fee.)

[nikonosis]

What is amazing to me right now is that E* is offereing free hd service for 6 months, all kinds of other free stuff, and THEY ARE OFFERING A FREE HDDVR and 1 extra free regular DVR. Plus free installation. Why can't D* match this? Do they even care to get new customers or keep their old ones?

[j2fast]

What is amazing to me right now is that E* is offereing free hd service for 6 months, all kinds of other free stuff, and THEY ARE OFFERING A FREE HDDVR and 1 extra free regular DVR. Plus free installation. Why can't D* match this? Do they even care to get new customers or keep their old ones?

The retention agent I just spoke to said that E* knows that D* is going to be offering a significantly larger selection of HD by years end so they are trying to draw people in with big cost savings before they can sign up for the superior product that D* is/will be offering...... :rolleyes:

I haven't committed yet but right now he/they offered me $100 credit to make the HDDVR $199, waive the $9.99 for HD channels for the first 12 months and waive the $5.99 DVR fee for the first 12 months. Not the best deal I've read about but I'll likely take it. I have no intention of leaving D* and I'm feeling lazy and don't feel like dancing anymore.

[jmh139]

I finally decided to upgrade to the HR20 and one H20. First call yesterday, I got $100 off and 12 months free HD service ($9.99/month), and said OK, go ahead and do it. They could not schedule an install, said someone else would call me within 72 hours. They called this morning and said Sept 14th! Whew :-)

I called back and told them to cancel the order, that Dish Network could install this Monday. After many times on hold, I ended up getting the HR20 for $19.95 shipping, the H20 at the regular price of $99, plus the HD service for free for a year, and 3 months of HBO.

Install date will still be way out, but I can wait. Also, I still have 1 year left on my contract, when they brought that up, I told them I would pay the cancellation fee.

[Marvin]

I have had way too much trouble ordering 2 HD DVRs.

I was told today by a Directv CSR (who called me!) that Directv doesn't allow customers to have more than one HD-DVR in their household. This was after one botched install of two hd-dvrs (they sent one HD-DVR and one regular HD receiver) last month and yesterdays half-done install of a dish and one HD DVR even though the order was for two, which took me the better part of 3 weeks to nail down through e-mail and CSR roulette. I knew from the start that with the order I placed being split into 2 seperate work orders that it was likely that only one box would be installed and Id need a 2nd install date although the CSR I put the order throughassured me he would do his best to get everything done in just one day..ha. I called Directv yesterday after the installer was finished with the new dish and 1 HD-DVR and set up an install for the 2nd HD-DVR on Monday, the CSR I talked with had no problem whatsoever setting up the install of the 2nd box, didnt even take 5 minutes. Shoulda known it wasn't going to be that easy..

I got a call today from Directv wanting to refund the money I paid on the 2nd one and not send me a 2nd HR20 because "It is against Directv policy to allow more than one HD-DVR per household". I kept from saying that had to be a load of bull since a lot of people have been getting 2, but I did tell him that if I cant have two HD-DVRs then they need to take back the one they installed yesterday because I still currently have one HD Tivo that wasn't replaced, to which he said that the rule only applied to HR20s since they are in "short supply" and needed for others due to the impending new channel launch.

Blah blah blah, I basically told them that if they refund any money, it might as well be for both boxes and the programming fees Ive paid for this month because I will have switched to Dish "yesterday" and they can come back and take the dish out ASAP, and any "2 year comittment" they want to throw at me was null and void when they didn't send the 2nd HD-DVR since I agreed to everything on the basis of 2 HD-DVRs, not 1.

Someone will be here Monday with a 2nd HR20. I should have never let the installer just install the one HR20 yesterday, but he had already been out here twice and its taken me a month to get from the last install to this and I didnt want to wait another month and probably end up going through this again.

[RyanX]

What is amazing to me right now is that E* is offereing free hd service for 6 months, all kinds of other free stuff, and THEY ARE OFFERING A FREE HDDVR and 1 extra free regular DVR. Plus free installation. Why can't D* match this? Do they even care to get new customers or keep their old ones?

I had an ad for that Dish deal in my Sunday newspaper soI called Sunday afternoon and the guy in retention matched that deal (minus $20 handling fee) with no questions asked. I didn't threaten to switch, I just asked if they would match. After he signed me up he thanked me a few times for sticking with Directv and not switching over.

[kaa1954]

I was told today by a Directv CSR (who called me!) that Directv doesn't allow customers to have more than one HD-DVR in their household.

This one takes the cake. I know there are lots of guys out there that have 3. I'll bet if we looked hard enough, we could find someone who has 4.

I think what the CSR was misunderstanding is the "one at a time" rule that some CSR's are apparently bound to. (I can see why this CSR would be one of them)

[RAD]

Or it's only one at a time with a price other then $299, maybe. I have two HR20's so I know you can have more then one.

[ampman337]

Hi new to the site, just wanted to add my experience.
I've had an HD Ready Projection set for about 4 yrs and thought about buying an antenna and converter box but I'm 70 miles from NYC so I scrapped the idea until I recently bought a 32" LCD.
I called and asked for an HD DVR and a Regular HD receiver got the 299 each BS
and told them I could go to cable for less. Then they said I could have both for 99
and a year of HD free (It should be free all the time) I asked if they would make the second receiver a DVR and they said yes My wife was upset about losing her Tivo (I have 2 of them networked) so now she will have 2 DVRs in the BR (She needs it with all the crap she records)
My one question is I will now have 5 DVRs thus I will need 10 feeds will they install a
6x16 multiswitch or is that above the basic install. I currently have a 3x8 MS I don't know if you can cascade them for the SD receivers?

Thanks in advance

[j2fast]

This one takes the cake. I know there are lots of guys out there that have 3. I'll bet if we looked hard enough, we could find someone who has 4.

I think what the CSR was misunderstanding is the "one at a time" rule that some CSR's are apparently bound to. (I can see why this CSR would be one of them)

Wow, that is odd. The retention person I spoke too yesterday made it a point to say that the $5.99 per month fee would cover all DVR's in the house if I wanted more than one. I specifically asked for clarification by asking if I wanted 4 they would all just cost $5.99. He said yes and then asked if I wanted to order more than one.

Anyway, placed my order today and from the sounds of it I lucked out a little install wise. The installer is supposed to be here this coming Monday; I guess maybe this is one case where being in a bit of a rural area may have helped since the installers may not be as busy. Hopefully this installer will be better than the last. He was so rude to my wife before I got home and then to me I almost kicked him out and said forget it.

[hells_bells]

Got my 2nd HR-20 for $19.95 and they gave me a x3 free months of programming!!!

[HD30TV]

Wow, that is odd. The retention person I spoke too yesterday made it a point to say that the $5.99 per month fee would cover all DVR's in the house if I wanted more than one. I specifically asked for clarification by asking if I wanted 4 they would all just cost $5.99. He said yes and then asked if I wanted to order more than one.

Anyway, placed my order today and from the sounds of it I lucked out a little install wise. The installer is supposed to be here this coming Monday; I guess maybe this is one case where being in a bit of a rural area may have helped since the installers may not be as busy. Hopefully this installer will be better than the last. He was so rude to my wife before I got home and then to me I almost kicked him out and said forget it.

I'm hoping this may be the case for me as well [started vacation about 3p local time yesterday, through Labor Day weekend], as I live semi-rurally and in an area where HDTV/equipment ownership is kinda rare; heck I'd say even satellite equipment is fairly rare as well, compared to other members' areas.

[Marvin]

Or it's only one at a time with a price other then $299, maybe. I have two HR20's so I know you can have more then one.

I ordered 2 HR20-100s for the $99 price each of swapping out the HR10-250s. I gave up trying to get even one for cheaper once that newsblurb about the $99 price for the swap of the HR10-250s was made public.

[RichB4321]

I originally called D* yesterday and asked what the cost would be for me to upgrade to HD service. They quoted me a price of $299 for each of the two DVR's I wanted plus $20 S&H with no discounts on the HD service.

I called back today to the general customer serice number and told automated system that I wanted to cancel service. I explained to the CSR who came on the line that I was considering cancelling my service and going with Comcast or Dish because D*'s fees to upgrade to HD service were too high in relation to the others promotional offfers.

She offered me a the first HR-20 for free, the second one for $189, waived the $20 S&H charges on both, free dish upgrade, free installation, and free HD service for one year. Only problem is that I have to wait 4 weeks for the installation.

[mcbeevee]

I currently have 2 HR20's and 1 H20. I called D* yesterday about replacing my H20 with a HR20. They kept telling me the only thing they could do was $299 plus s&h. I told them I could go to BB/CC and get that deal. They kept saying the $19.95 s&h deals are only for people upgrading from HR10's. I even offered to pay $99, and send my (owned) H20 back to them, but no luck. Has anyone with a setup similar to mine had any luck getting a discounted HR20? :confused:

[Lord Vader]

This past week I got my first HR20-100 to supplement, not replace, one of my three HR10-250s. They gave it to me at no cost, except for the $19.95 "shipping" (now why even charge that if the installer brings it out anyway?). Today I called up and after much hemming and hawing got two more HR20's on order for $99 each, NO shipping this time (weird), AND an immediate $150.00 credit on my bill. So this amounts to a $198 charge on my bill and a $150 credit for a net cost of $48 for two more HR20 HD DVRs. The net cost effectively equals the cost of shipping for two units. Go figure. Regardless, I'm basically getting two more units for "free," in a sense, similar to my first.

I won't complain about that. :)

[HD30TV]

I currently have 2 HR20's and 1 H20. I called D* yesterday about replacing my H20 with a HR20. They kept telling me the only thing they could do was $299 plus s&h. I told them I could go to BB/CC and get that deal. They kept saying the $19.95 s&h deals are only for people upgrading from HR10's. I even offered to pay $99, and send my (owned) H20 back to them, but no luck. Has anyone with a setup similar to mine had any luck getting a discounted HR20? :confused:

You mean they are even admitting that they are giving out 19.95 deals!? Man do I feel like a complete moron now, for just doing my usual and ordering a unit from an online retailer, at the full 299 price (+40 for S&H; albeit expedited S).

I was gonna be nice and just ignore it (paying 299, albeit my own unit-no questions asked), but I will definitely be requesting a 299, (299-20) 280, or (299-99 deal I was offered on the phone last night) 200 credit to my account after hearing that. Especially after upgrading everything at full price, even now, after being a loyal D* customer for close a decade. (At least 6 receivers, when I have the HR20 in my hands on Tuesday sometime [2 of those HD and currently have an HR10], and once get the new 5LNB dish, at least 4 dish/equipment/placement-mounting upgrades). And in all that time and money spent, never once have I ever called to request special dispensation/deals/credits to my account before I called last night, and even then, I still didn't ask for special treatment; the CSR put me on hold for a mintute after I called about wanting to upgrade from my 3LNB/HR10 setup to the required HR20/5LNB system, then she offers me the 99 deal without even having to begin mentioning anything about not wanting to pay 299 to do so. (First call about it, wanted to be nice as possible, so not argumentative.) Didn't accept cause couldn't; had to "think about it".

Long story short, if they are going to openly admit to "giving away" HR20s for only the 20 S&H, to those upgrading from an HR10, I deserve a credit of some sort; I'd even settle for (299-99) 200. After paying full price for a decade or so, I'm tired of being "that poor sucker".


Apologies for the long-winded rant, especially since its mostly off-topic.

[shedberg]

I called Thursday and asked to speak to customer retention. I have been a customer since the early 1990's. I also have the Premier package, HD, and NFL Sunday Ticket with Super Fan. I have an HR20-700, an H20-100, an old Samsung, and two other non HD receivers (one a DVR).

I got $100 off the receiver plus $10 off for 12 months so I could upgrade my Samsung to another HR20 DVR. Also did not pay for shipping and handling.

I had no hassles at all from the customer retention department. The best deal I could get from the CSRs was $75 off.

Calling customer retention will help so don't even bother with the CSRs, just ask for customer retention - that way you will get the best deal.

[saryon]

Long story short, if they are going to openly admit to "giving away" HR20s for only the 20 S&H, to those upgrading from an HR10,


I have an HR10-250, a HIRD-E15 (is it the E15? Original Hughes HD receiver), and 3 other SD receivers on my account and called for an upgrade, they only gave me each new box for $99, free install, free dish, customer since 98 with full service (everything except for extra-cost sports package) so don't feel bad - not every HR10 upgrade gets great treatment.

[desulliv]

Hi new to the site, just wanted to add my experience.
I've had an HD Ready Projection set for about 4 yrs and thought about buying an antenna and converter box but I'm 70 miles from NYC so I scrapped the idea until I recently bought a 32" LCD.
I called and asked for an HD DVR and a Regular HD receiver got the 299 each BS
and told them I could go to cable for less. Then they said I could have both for 99
and a year of HD free (It should be free all the time) I asked if they would make the second receiver a DVR and they said yes My wife was upset about losing her Tivo (I have 2 of them networked) so now she will have 2 DVRs in the BR (She needs it with all the crap she records)
My one question is I will now have 5 DVRs thus I will need 10 feeds will they install a
6x16 multiswitch or is that above the basic install. I currently have a 3x8 MS I don't know if you can cascade them for the SD receivers?

Thanks in advance

I've got more than 10 feeds. They gave me two free Zinwell WB68, non-powered multiswitches, which are cascaded. Setup works fine.

[marksman]

I am about to see what I can do to get two more. We got our first one for free. No cost, no shipping and handling nada. But I don't expect I will have such luck with getting two more.

Will update when I find out what they are willing to do.

Has anyone had any luck suggesting buying them from a retail provider and just getting programming discounts? Seems like that might be easier for them, but have never done that before. I know 6 Ave via Amazon has them for $249.

[ampman337]

I've got more than 10 feeds. They gave me two free Zinwell WB68, non-powered multiswitches, which are cascaded. Setup works fine.

I had read in another post that someone had problems with a cascade setup.
I would rather not lay out $130 for a 6x16 MS. I'll have to see what the installer says.

[or270]

WB68 is not cascadable. That is from Zinwell, it may work but is not recommended.
You can use special splitters( 2 Way High Frequency Satellite Splitter One Port Passive) to split the signal to 2 separate WB68's, You need 4 splitters.

You can get a WB616, it took a couple of extra days to get mine from the install company(Ironwood Comm), and I got it free.

[billt1111]

I have one HR20, one H20, and one SD TIVO . I am a 10 year customer with ST and HD SF. I called retention yesterday to ask what deal they could give me to upgrade my SD TIVO to an HR20. The best he would do is $99 and was willing to let me disconnect without offering anything else. I can get that on the D* web site just by going to the 'upgrade equipment' section. I am going to call tomorrow and try again. With 10,000 CSR reps its just a matter of trial and error until I get the $20 deal. I deserve it. I have paid them a lot of money for a long time.

[desulliv]

WB68 is not cascadable. That is from Zinwell, it may work but is not recommended.
You can use special splitters( 2 Way High Frequency Satellite Splitter One Port Passive) to split the signal to 2 separate WB68's, You need 4 splitters.

You can get a WB616, it took a couple of extra days to get mine from the install company(Ironwood Comm), and I got it free.
I was mistaken. I assumed they were cascaded, but they are, in fact, cabled the way you described above. Four splitters to the two separate WB68s for a total of eleven outputs and room for five more.

[Tonedeaf]

I was told by a CSR(I know, I know take with a grain of salt) that all customers with an HR10 would be sent a letter with a confirmation code to call and upgrade their DVR to the new HR20.

Got a new HR20 as a replacement for my HR10 which I then fixed with a new image on the harddrive for $19.95 last week. Called to ask about something else and the CSR noticed I had the HR10 on the account and mentioned it.

Anyone else been told this?

[marksman]

We spoke to them today about getting two more HR-20s, and we were not upgrading, as the ones we are replacing are just series 2 DirecTivos. They said all current customers who have been with them at least a year could get additional boxes for $99 plus shipping.

[GreyGhost00]

I have two HR10-250s. Just called retention and was offered the $99 deal and I balked, stating I'd paid $1000 for the HD Tivos (which I did for one) and wasn't too keen about shelling out more money.

The retention CSR then offered the first HR20 for free and the second for $99, plus shipping. To offset the cost, he provided a credit of $20 for 6 months, making the swap essentially free.

So my deal is: $124 for two HR20-700s, Slimline dish install and a $120 credit over 6 mo.

Two-year commitment which was fine since I am a NFLST and MLBEI sub as well.

The only down side? The earliest install wasn't until 9/20 (!) At least I have a few weeks to prep and I'll call Installation and see if I can move up.

[billt1111]

I just gave up and ordered my second HR20 for the $99 price listed on the 'upgrade equipment' part of the D* web site. The normal $20 S&H fee was included so the actual price is $80. I wasn't going to spend the 30 or 60 minutes to argue with countless CSRs over $80. Oh well.

By the way, I spoke with about 5 various CSRs over two calls. Not one mentioned a 'one HR-20 limit' like rumors had suggested.

[RAD]

I just gave up and ordered my second HR20 for the $99 price listed on the 'upgrade equipment' part of the D* web site. The normal $20 S&H fee was included so the actual price is $80. I wasn't going to spend the 30 or 60 minutes to argue with countless CSRs over $80. Oh well.

By the way, I spoke with about 5 various CSRs over two calls. Not one mentioned a 'one HR-20 limit' like rumors had suggested.

Sure it wasn't a H20 for $99 on the web, if it is you're the first person AFAIK that has said the web gave them one for $99. I just checked my account and it used to show the HR20 for $199, now it's saying $299, glad I don't need one.

[Yourself]

I just picked up an HDTV over the weekend so I thought I would call this morning to see what they could do for me. I am a 6 year subscriber with Premier plus Sunday ticket. I was connected to a nice gentleman named Ben and I proceeded to inform him of the HD options in my area. He came back with a $99 HR20 and that was about it. I let him know that Dish has free HD for 6 month plus a free DVR. He countered with a HR 20 for $19.95 and a $20 credit for 6 months. I then asked about Super fan for free and he said that if I was receiving monthly credits that he couldn't give me Super fan for free. I thanked him and had him note my account.

Fast forward 2 hours...

I called back with the intention of taking the deal above. It's not the greatest, but it's fair. I was connected to nice woman and I let her know that I was calling back to confirm the deal noted on my account. She took a look at the account and said "we can do better". Long story short, here are the final details of the deal she gave me:


HR 20-$19.95
H20-N/C
Super Fan-N/C
12 mos HD-N/C
She credited back my Sunday ticket payments so far and gave me the new subscriber rate for ST which is 4 payments of $70 with Premier programming included.
Slimline Dish and Multiswitch

Install date=8/30/07

[pjschwartz]

I have been a D*TV customer in good standing for 10 years. I just spoke with the retention department and got the following deal: 2 HR20 HD DVRs for $19.99 each, and 12 months of HD and DVR services for free (I currently subscribe to the Premier package)

[btx]

...I refuse to give them $300 to LEASE a unit from them, but I've had no luck so far getting any deal out of them (4 year customer with an SD Tivo and choice plus)--As soon as I determine whether or not Dish network's stuff is acceptable, I'm raising the threat--I figure that if you are going to threaten to cancel, you better be ready to pull the lever (...just ask the online dvd rental service I just canceled). :rolleyes:

[AlanSaysYo]

I was told by a CSR(I know, I know take with a grain of salt) that all customers with an HR10 would be sent a letter with a confirmation code to call and upgrade their DVR to the new HR20.

Got a new HR20 as a replacement for my HR10 which I then fixed with a new image on the harddrive for $19.95 last week. Called to ask about something else and the CSR noticed I had the HR10 on the account and mentioned it.

Anyone else been told this?

I was not told that when I called last week. Did they mention what the charge would be for HR10 customers.

[AlanSaysYo]

Double post

[Tonedeaf]

I was not told that when I called last week. Did they mention what the charge would be for HR10 customers.

Would only be the cost of shipping.

I called into get another HR20 and got one for $99. I wasn't gonna push too hard as I already have an HR20 that "replaced" a defective HR10 that I resurrected. The replacement did not come with the 5lnb installed as the rep said I would not need the dish until next month. The $99 one will have the dish and an additional multi switch. The Zinwell is cascadeable right? I will need 10 outputs total for my setup.

Will now have the 2 HR20's, 1 HR10 along with a few more SD Tivo's on my account. Hoping to get all HR20's in the future. The DirecTV On Demand and the future of DirecTV looks pretty good. :D

[jeffstra]

Are right after reading all these threads about switching from HR0-10 to HR-20 for the cost of shipping I felt rather confident when I called this morning. What I got was attitude (yeah, sure I gave too) but after starting at $299 the best he we give me was $99. I asked to talk to a supervisor who seemed much more interested in making her CSR happy than me. No dice. It pisses me off that based on their advertising I paid $1000 for an HR-10 and then they decide to make it obsolete and I have to shell out another $99. I won't do it. Going to check out Time-Warner and Dish. Have been with D* since July 1995. This hurts.

[schiesz]

I just called, looking for a deal on a H20 and HR20. Price quickly went from $99 + $299 to free H20, $200 credit towards HR20. No HD credits or anything, but I was happy with that and went for it. I had tried about a year ago for a deal on a HR20 and had no luck at all.
It seems to make a huge difference who you talk to, and I have not been under contract for quite a while.

[Marvin]

I just gave up and ordered my second HR20 for the $99 price listed on the 'upgrade equipment' part of the D* web site. The normal $20 S&H fee was included so the actual price is $80. I wasn't going to spend the 30 or 60 minutes to argue with countless CSRs over $80. Oh well.

By the way, I spoke with about 5 various CSRs over two calls. Not one mentioned a 'one HR-20 limit' like rumors had suggested.

Ive come to the conclusion the phone call I got was because I was getting two $99 HR20s under the replacement deal for the HR-10s and Im guessing that you're only allowed 1 at $99 every 6 months and that probably threw up red flags all over the place. but I managed both for $99 each by going through retention. Im sure they were happy to do that initially since they're getting others that are pushing for getting them free, but I was tired of playing CSR roulette and having to call and get put on hold for 30 minutes plus several times and ending up with a worse deal than when I started. Im sure there are more people with a lot more patience on here than I have to go through all the hoops and stuff to get em for free but I gave up and took what I percieved to be a fair (but not the best) offer of getting them both installed for about $70 less than one at full price.

The good news is though that I have everything hooked up, networked and going good and haven't had any major problems (knock on wood) with either yet.

[lintball]

My DSR6000 has been on its last leg...only one tuner works. So I called and got an HR20, 5LNB dish, 3 mos of free HD for $20. Installation is Tuesday.

He said "you've been a good customer for over 7 years with a good payment history". Note that I still have 1 year left on my current contract.

LintBall

[nomad816]

after having talked with them 4 times since late July I finally got a deal i accepted. I had been originally offered
1) $199 + shipping
2) $99 + shipping
3) $99 - shipping and was assured no one was getting it for free
4) $99 - no shipping, 1 year of free HD(currently valued at $120)

I had insisted each time that there was no way I was going to accept a deal that cost me $100+ because they had made my current receiver obsolete. I still had a year left on my contract.

They are eventually going to have to swap out all of their Mpeg2 receivers and they know it. I would think as long as you are patient a deal will eventually come your way that is acceptable.

I have been a D* for 13+ years but I have found them much more difficult to deal with since they went to the leasing program in 2006.

[khalpin]

This thread rules!

I was looking to upgrade 2 standard def, non-DVR boxes to HD DVRs. I called last night and was offered an HR10 for $99, called back 5 minutes later and got the same deal. Each time, I was transferred to the Technical Support. I called this morning and was told the HR10 was $99 and the HR20 was $299. I reread this thread and called back asking to be transferred to "Retention". They asked why and I said that I had just bought a HDTV and wanted to upgrade my boxes but the cost was ridiculous, so I was going to look for another provider unless they could do something about the price. They transferred me to the retention department and the guy said that since I was a customer since '03, I was entitled to a "free" equipment upgrade every 6 months. The "free" upgrade included a one time $19.95 fee for the HR20. I told him I wanted to get 2 HR20's, but he said he could only do one free upgrade every 6 months, so I just went with one. He said he'd put notes in the system so that if I call back in 6 months they'll give me another one for the $19.95 fee.

They're coming next Wednesday. Just in time for opening night of the NFL.

[Hilbe]

Yesterday I got an itch to get another HR20. Right now my setup is an HR20, HR10-250, D15, and an R10.

I called and didn't have to put up a fight and got an HR20 for $20 shipping and 12 months of free HD package (-10 per month for 12 months). Then I called back later and got them to upgrade my HR10-250 for $99. So in a few weeks I'll have 3 - HR20s and they'll run me $0 if I stay with DTV for my full 2 year commitment.

I too was told by my first CSR that they could "only ship me 1 HR20 within 6 months, due to demand". Hence my 2 phone calls :)

[thedonn]

They wouldnt budge with me. I have a DSR6000 (standard def tivo) and an H20 (HD). I called and said Im not on a commitment and by the end of the year I am cancelling. I said I want to replace my DSR6000 with the new HR20 for nothing more than going back on the commitment plan + shipping. They said no way Jose. I said but people are saying they are getting all types of deals on forums. They said yeah but in those cases they are either on the older HD Tivos or they had issues during install, where D* screwed up or something, ran over a dog, killed a tree.. I said noooooo , I havent heard anything like that.
I got off the phone nowhere.
So I told them the next time they hear from me it will be to cancel. I told them I am getting offers from cable etc. They said basicaly, Take em.

[Drew2k]

I called on behalf of my mother tonight, looking for the best offer to get her an HD DVR. She currently has 5 SD DVRs, Premiere package, and the protection plan, and is no longer in a commitment.

I asked the first CSR I spoke to if, based on "our" history, we could take advantage of the $19.95 plan to upgrade to an HD DVR. He said there was no such plan, and we could have the HD DVR for $299. After a bit of back and forth, he firmly said that was the best he could do.

My intention was to hang up and call back tomorrow, but I decided to mention DISH. I said, "299 is too high ... we just got a flier from Dish, maybe they'e worth a look." I was hoping he'd make an offer, but instead he mumbled, "Very well, sir. Have a good evening." :eek:

You're kidding, right???? :mad:

So I said, "That's what you say to a long-term customer who is no longer in a commitment? Fine. Give me retention." Him: "One moment."

Night and day difference with retention. I told the new CSR I was calling to upgrade to HD DVR, but the first CSR wouldn't budge off a $299 price, which was too high, and we just got a flier from Dish who was offering a free HD DVR upgrade. He looked up the account history and offered $19.95 S/H, install is a week from this Saturday. :)

Like I said .... Night and day. :)

[hells_bells]

Are right after reading all these threads about switching from HR0-10 to HR-20 for the cost of shipping I felt rather confident when I called this morning. What I got was attitude (yeah, sure I gave too) but after starting at $299 the best he we give me was $99. I asked to talk to a supervisor who seemed much more interested in making her CSR happy than me. No dice. It pisses me off that based on their advertising I paid $1000 for an HR-10 and then they decide to make it obsolete and I have to shell out another $99. I won't do it. Going to check out Time-Warner and Dish. Have been with D* since July 1995. This hurts.

Try it again. I got a CSR that game me my 2nd HR20 for shipping cost.

[jal]

Try it again. I got a CSR that game me my 2nd HR20 for shipping cost.


I understand exactly how you feel. That's one of the reasons I left Dish after paying $600 for a 942 and then Dish told me it was obsolete in about a year, demanding that I pay a $199 "Lease upgrade fee" to get a new receiver.

[redskin9]

Let me start by saying that I have a H20 rcvr. Decided to upgrade to HR20. Took 5 calls but here's how it shook out.

- Call 1 , told $299 was the best that they could do even though Dish,Comcast and
Verizon would all give DVR for free or considerably cheaper than $299. Asked to
be xfered to CR to cancel account. CR said that they could offer $199. Told him
that was better but not what I wanted.Put on hold while he checked if he could
do better,dropped my call.

- Call 2 , told voice response "cancel account" and xferred to CR. Negotiated $99
for HR20,new slimline (AU9S) dish, multi switch, recable of new dish (I installed
pole in ground because initial install wasn't and now bushes beginning to block
LOS for dish, but that quality install is another story) to inside house, Also noted
for SR. Tech from MASTEC be assigned (with a signal meter this time, also part
of the other story) and no sub-contractor ( guy with van/ladder that called him-
self experienced installer " Home Depot no have bigger pole" when my 3lnb was
swapped for AT9 5lnb, again part of the other story). Told CR I'd think about it
my account was noted with all this. Given express # and pin# to use in calling
Back.

- Call 3 , 6 hrs later decided to accept deal. While talking to CR about putting notes
on ticket to include all that call #2 he said that all the re wiring would be
cosidered "custom installation" and would cost. Told him to forget it and hung up.

- Call 4 , immediately called again and got new CR rep. Call dropped while
checking my account notes.

- Call 5 , SUCCESS !!! Everything ordered and noted on work order. Told that this
would be treated as a "New Installation" and would include the standard 125 ft
of cable etc. Scheduled for 9/23 8-12 appt.

Today called installer # that had been given to me with JN. Asked about getting my work order noted to contact me if any cancellations came up and to get earlier install. They called the local service office manager and were able to get me scheduled for this Mon. 9/3 8-12.

Bottom line $99 and 1 week turn around. Pretty good in my book.Shows how to work the system.Thanks to all previous posters that led me down this path.:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

[jeffstra]

I called on behalf of my mother tonight, looking for the best offer to get her an HD DVR. She currently has 5 SD DVRs, Premiere package, and the protection plan, and is no longer in a commitment.

I asked the first CSR I spoke to if, based on "our" history, we could take advantage of the $19.95 plan to upgrade to an HD DVR. He said there was no such plan, and we could have the HD DVR for $299. After a bit of back and forth, he firmly said that was the best he could do.

My intention was to hang up and call back tomorrow, but I decided to mention DISH. I said, "299 is too high ... we just got a flier from Dish, maybe they'e worth a look." I was hoping he'd make an offer, but instead he mumbled, "Very well, sir. Have a good evening." :eek:

You're kidding, right???? :mad:

So I said, "That's what you say to a long-term customer who is no longer in a commitment? Fine. Give me retention." Him: "One moment."

Night and day difference with retention. I told the new CSR I was calling to upgrade to HD DVR, but the first CSR wouldn't budge off a $299 price, which was too high, and we just got a flier from Dish who was offering a free HD DVR upgrade. He looked up the account history and offered $19.95 S/H, install is a week from this Saturday. :)

Like I said .... Night and day. :)

I really don't want to play their games. This is ridiculous. If they can't see that requesting a move from an HR10 to an HR20 is just fulfilling the contract made with D*. They advertised "Buy an HR10 and get HD now and in the future". Not "Buy an HR10 and we'll make you regret it later by obsoleting your box"!

[ticmxman]

Steping into HD. I currently have 2 R10s and have been with Directv for 10 years some thru Pegasus. I have Total Choice for programming. Here is my experience with DTV. All reps where profesional.

1st call bottomed out at $199 with free HD for 12 months. Net cost $79, told them no thanks.

2nd call a day latter. Said "Cancel" on the prompt. Told the rep I don't want to cancel but am prepared to after looking at the compettors offers. After some short discussion I ended up with this deal. Not bad, not $20 like some but I donot have a HR10 like most who got the $20 deal seem to have.

$99 including S&H for the HD DVR
$10 month cedit for 12 months on the HD package
HBO free for 3 months
Install new 5LNB Dish
Relocate R10 to bedroom...tempted to run the cables myself
2 year commitment
Install 6- 8 am, September 18th....sooner would be better

Now if my wife can just adapt to the difference in the non-TIVO DVR of course we still have the 2 R10's.
Does the installer use the existing dish location for the new dish? I like mine where it is on the facia board near the highest point of the roof ridge near my OA.
One minor concern is the web site order summary is not showing any of the discounts only full price. Should I be concerned? Or will the actual price show up latter?

[BigTK]

I also want to say thank you to everyone here for their words of wisdom. I was able to get the $19.95 deal for a new HR20 with not much trouble.

I called the main 800 number and was on hold for 15 minutes before the first CSR picked up and told me that my cost would be $299 for the receiver and an additional $19.95 for shipping. There was nothing she could do and there are no deals right now. You might want to try BestBuy or CircuitCity and see if they could do better. I then asked to be transferred to retention...

The CSR there answered immediately and asked me "so you're telling me if you can't get a better price than $299 then you're leaving?" I said yes. She said, okay then we can give you a one-time good customer promotion of $19.95 for the receiver, the dish upgrade, new lines, etc. Scheduled install date of 9/18. I'm going to call the installation company and see if I can get that moved up.

Thanks again. This site if full of great advice!
-Tom

[falz]

I've only been a customer for for about 3 years, and went with DirecTV when I bought my HDTV because they were the only one with an HD TiVo at the time. (TiVo, not DVR)

Just wanted to chime in as another person to get the $20 deal. I emailed their Customer Service on Monday. Today I got home from work and had a message on my machine from DirecTV giving me their direct # of 1-800-824-9081 with a four digit pin #. (I don't beleive this phone # does much good without the pin). Fortunately there was no wait at all.

The rep who picked up said the person who originally called me back hadn't left any notes at all. He immediately offered me the HR20 700 with new dish installed for $20, with of course a 2 year contract continuation. (Cancellation fee is $12.50/month if anyone is curious).

In my case I'm just replacing a standard D10 receiver and keeping the HR10-250 for now to see how decent the HR20 is. The rep simply came out and stated that every 6 months customers are able to qualify for an upgrade such as this, as others have mentioned.

So, if someone wants to try the e-mail route, again as others have mentioned in the past, you can bypass any long phone wait times if you can wait a few days for them to return your call.

My install date of September 13th isn't too far out, and sounds like it should come near the launch of a bunch of HD channels, so I'm happy w/ that!

--falz

[redskin9]

Forgot to mention in my previous post that it was $99 total including the "shipping" charge. They added and then credited $19.95.

[pyro383]

Me: with DTV since 11/2001, NFL since 2003

Tried tues then thurs

1st try got me; HR20 for $99, free superfan (after they started to bill me #33 for 3 months), free HD for 1yr.

2nd try; HR20 for free, free superfan (after they started to bill me $33 for 3 months), free HD for 1yr, free HBO/Cinemax for 3 months.

Took the deal and upgrade to be done on 9/7. Pretty well satisfied. I never threatened, just said cancel at prompt and told rep that I just wanted newer equipment.

[jeffstra]

So, if someone wants to try the e-mail route, again as others have mentioned in the past, you can bypass any long phone wait times if you can wait a few days for them to return your call.



--falz

Did the e-mail. No response at all! Starting to feel paranoid.

[obxterra]

Talked to 3 CSR's Wednesday trying to get a decent deal to replace one of two H10-250's with an HR20. Best I could get was $199 plus shipping ($99 plus shipping on a second unit). When I balked on that the last CSR offered $10 off a month for 6 months.

But, none of them would ship direct, I had to have the free install. I have installed the Slimline 5 LNB dish myself and I already have an H20 in use. The explanation I got was that the install tech needed to pickup and return the H10-250(s).

The usual routine I get locally is, the installer pulls up in my driveway, looks at all the trees, backsup turns around and leaves. Once I actually had to talk the tech into getting out of his truck regarding a receiver upgrade because he couldn't believe I was already a subscriber.

If I hadn't done all my own installs I wouldn't even be a subscriber (since '97).

Sorry about the length, the short of it is that I decided to order from SolidSignal for the convenience of direct shipping and self-install.

[Milominderbinder2]

Click here:

Getting a Good Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938)

Good luck!

- Craig

[Mike__P]

Is it normal to have an extended wait for install? When I was on earlier with the CSR (retention I think), he said the install would take place Thursday 8/23. They just called to confirm the appoinment and pushed it out to October 5th!

The deal I was told was install HR20 / H20 & new dish and cables at no cost to me. I have been a long time customer with multiple sports packages and I own a Hr10-250 and samsung SIR=160. He also said I keep the old equipment as a spare.

I was happy with the deal until I found out I have to wait until October!

Tampa/St Pete market btw.

Update: Got on the local list for a earlier appointment and they did the install yesterday. So far so good; getting used to the HR20. Not real happy about the 30sec slip and play bar persistence, but not bad really. I probably just need some time with it so I can get "retrained".

[falz]

Did the e-mail. No response at all! Starting to feel paranoid.
Now that I think of it, I may have emailed them Sunday, and not heard until Thursday. I too was wondering. You're sure you gave them the correct phone # and account # in the HTML form, correct?

--falz

[browningt]

call #1 - voiced prompt "cancel service" / said i wanted to cancel NFLST, bill was too high / asked what would they do to keep my subscription / asked me what was i interested in!!! / mentioned the HR20 / responded immediatly with:

HR20 = $19.95 s/h
free dish upgrade (standard)
keep and relocate R15 free (i believe standard)
new 2 year contract

asked about SF = no go / no problem I'm happy @ this point / kept reading posts decided i was not going to pay for SF

E-mail #1 - wrote that i didn't think SF fair when already paying for NFLST & HD / D* e-mailed back that day / said i would receive a call within 48 hours / nothing for 4 days

E-mail #2 - a little touchier now, i wrote back with my original point / D* called next day / i explained problem stating i felt that i had been misinformed about NFL HD / "did you say misinformed? well if you feel you were misinformed, i can offer you SF for free"

OK, not so bad. i got everything i wanted. no credits or free HD but i am very happy. My curiosity is about the 1, 3 or 5 hearts. Officially my account is only one year old. i have been a sub since '96 but am going thru divorce. when i moved out i suspended my account because i went to an apartment and didn't want to hassle with a dish. told the wife to call and set up a new account. i left all equipment there.
jump to last aug, when trying to re-activate my account i learned that she had taken over the old account and had locked me out. her name was not even on the account. i was NOT happy. yelled at CSR made a big deal. they apologized but would not change the situation. ended up taking new sub deal w/ R15 and free NFLST.
so was my relative ease w/ getting the HR20 & SF free because there is a note on my account linking me to past history or did i just get extremely lucky w/ my CSR's?

one other thing, has anyone received any retribution for paying $299 for HR20? my buddy just bought one and i have been trying to get him to call. he thinks his fate is sealed, where as i tell him to try. wanted to give him examples from you guys out there to help him out.

sorry for the long & not always completely on topic post:grin:

[nomad816]

will installing the 5 LNB dish require a different multiswitch?

Does a "Standard Professional Install" come with new cabling?

[Michael D'Angelo]

will installing the 5 LNB dish require a different multiswitch?

Does a "Standard Professional Install" come with new cabling?

1) If you have a multi-switch then yes it does need to be upgraded to a Zinwell WB68 6x8. The multi-switch is a free upgrade by DirecTV.

2) If the install requires new cables then yes they will be installed for free.

[McV]

I have called 3 times, including 1 time using the "cancel" option. They will not back down off of the $299. They said it was because when our hr20 was installed (Last September) the r10 was not returned (it's not my fault the installer did not ask for it), and that we got a discount on the HR20 in the house already.

I am trying to upgrade the r10 that they did not take to an HR20 so that i can get the new hd channels when they come out on a 2nd high def tv.

[Milominderbinder2]

I have called 3 times, including 1 time using the "cancel" option. They will not back down off of the $299. They said it was because when our hr20 was installed (Last September) the r10 was not returned (it's not my fault the installer did not ask for it), and that we got a discount on the HR20 in the house already.

I am trying to upgrade the r10 that they did not take to an HR20 so that i can get the new hd channels when they come out on a 2nd high def tv.
If your account is flagged that you did not return equipment, that could be a $275-$1000 charge against the account...

How about just calling for a new HR20 as an added receiver?

When you get it, could you call them and say you have an R10 you want to return?

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

There are now 80 new HD channels in "Test Mode". (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=96432)

Here are screen shots of the channels. (http://www.dbstalk.com/showpost.php?p=1073002&postcount=5)

In addition, the FCC approved moving the date from Sept 14 to Sept 1 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=96613). It is expected that it will still take at least 3 days after that.

The absolute earliest for these 80 new HD channels would be Sept 4 but there is no guaranty. Also, these are test channel so not all 80 channel may be added right away.

Still, the fact that DIRECTV has asked to move up the date by two weeks is a very good thing.

The best part is that so many are still doing this for $19 shipping plus free HD for 6-12 months.

DIRECTV has already announced that if you are capable, the new channels will be at the same numbers as the existing SD channels so these are test channels not the final channel numbers. The new HD channels will be listed first.

If you are thinking about getting an HR20 any time soon, what do you think delivery estimates will be in 2 weeks?

- Craig

[edjrwinnt]

The best I could get is $19.95 for the HR20 with free install and NO programming credits. I think I'll pass for now even though the number of new HD Channels does tempt me a little bit.

[HDTVsportsfan]

You're kidding right. I wouldn't think that was a bad deal.

[McV]

The best I could get is $19.95 for the HR20 with free install and NO programming credits. I think I'll pass for now even though the number of new HD Channels does tempt me a little bit.

i would have jumped on this

[RAD]

The best I could get is $19.95 for the HR20 with free install and NO programming credits. I think I'll pass for now even though the number of new HD Channels does tempt me a little bit.

$19.95 for a HR20 and you passed? Some folks are just too greedy.

[edjrwinnt]

$19.95 for a HR20 and you passed? Some folks are just too greedy.

It's not that I'm greedy it's just that money is tight at the moment and it's hard to justify the expense right now. I just wanted to share my experience with other users in the forum. I've been paying DirecTV over $90 a month over the last year with 5 receivers and just HBO. I'm not at all impressed with the R15 either which is another reason why I passed. If it was still TiVo I would probably jump in.

Can anyone tell me if the new channels are full HD or are they HD-lite?