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

[fredandbetty]

Well it took five tries to at least get a pretty good deal, it started at $100.00 off the $299.00 price over 6 days to get a good deal but i finally got a very nice lady by the name of Susie to come back with 'That will be $199.00 and we can break it up into 2 payments' , i said well can you put that into my notes so when i call back i can still get that deal, and she said yes, and i decided to double check with her :

"So that's $199.00 split into 2 payments, right?", she said yes, and i asked " So that's the bottom line price, there are no other discounts right, she said hold on a sec and ....

WOW!!!

she came back and said, " Ok, i can give you the HD-DVR for $19.95." ...i about dropped the phone!!!!:eek:

Let me tell you, i said "OK" faster than i think i have said something like that before!!! this was on Thursday the 13th, and she said "I have an opening the 15th, or i can change it for you!" Oh please, i JUMPED all over that and it was installed by the time i got home from work ( YAY!) and all i have left to do now is link that one to my router also!!! never threatening to cancel or any of that stuff either...

Let me join the " Thank you Milominderbinder2" club!!!!!:goodjob:

[Milominderbinder2]

...Let me join the " Thank you Milominderbinder2" club!!!!!:goodjob:
Thank you. These notes are just compiled from the zillion stories in this thread. These are the magic words to use. (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938)

I am happy that the steps worked for you. I thought that as we would get to the HD channel launch they would have to take the price back up to $299 to help control the torrent that is coming. I paid $299 for my first HR20 - there was no negotiation at the time.

We know that they are already getting slammed and that delivery times are already out to 4 weeks in some areas...

Is anyone else still able to get a deal for $199 or under as of today?

- Craig

[brazenhead]

Friday I got a HR20 for free and a H20 for 99.00. Wouldn't come off the H20, but did offer 6 months free HD service. I also got the NFL sunday ticket for 4 months and the premiums for free for 69.00 a month. I was happy with the deal and got an install within 5 days. I forgot, I didn't call I just emailed them and they called me back 2 days later and were happy to offer me that deal. :)

[Sir Lagzalot]

I got the HR-20 for 19.95 and three months free HBO, Showtime, and Starz, also 6 months customer appreciation 10 dollars off bill. Oh yeah almost forgot, thanks for all the info Milominderbinder2 it helped a lot. Install date 9/22.

[EagleToo]

This is my first post, and I'd like to begin by saying thank you to all that have taken time to post and share their experiences. You guys rock.

I'd also like to thank the guys that put together the Satellite HD Reciever Comparison - Great Job! It really helped me.

I followed the "Getting a Good Deal on an HR20" instructions and added that my wife was brow beating me (she was) with the DN Free ads and that I needed help to stay with DTV.

Here's the deal I just got from DTV.

1 HR20 DVR for $19.95 (upgrade for my HR10-250)
1 HR20 DVR for $199.95 after $100 Credit (upgrade for older Phillips Tivo unit)
Slimeline Dish and 6x8 Multiswitch - Free
Free Installation
Total Equipment Upgrade Cost = $219.90

4 Months Free Premier Package (what I normally get) $99.00/mo = -$396.00
NFL Sunday Ticket at Regular Price $69.00/mo x 4 = $276.00
Free NFL Superfan = -$99.00
Total Programming Credit = $276.00

The net result is DTV gave me $56.10 to upgrade my equipmet and watch NFL Sunday Ticket with Superfan.

Now when my wife yells at me on Sunday for watching NFL football, I can say "you told me to upgrade" and "DTV is paying me to watch.":lol:

Thanks guys, you're the reason I got a great deal.

[EagleToo]

This is my first post, and I'd like to begin by saying thank you to all that have taken time to post and share their experiences. You guys rock.

I'd also like to thank the guys that put together the Satellite HD Reciever Comparison - Great Job! It really helped me.

I followed the "Getting a Good Deal on an HR20" instructions and added that my wife was brow beating me (she was) with the DN Free ads and that I needed help to stay with DTV.

Here's the deal I just got from DTV.

1 HR20 DVR for $19.95 (upgrade for my HR10-250)
1 HR20 DVR for $199.95 after $100 Credit (upgrade for older Phillips Tivo unit)
Slimeline Dish and 6x8 Multiswitch - Free
Free Installation
Total Equipment Upgrade Cost = $219.90

4 Months Free Premier Package (what I normally get) $99.00/mo = -$396.00
NFL Sunday Ticket at Regular Price $69.00/mo x 4 = $276.00
Free NFL Superfan = -$99.00
Total Programming Credit = $276.00

The net result is DTV gave me $56.10 to upgrade my equipmet and watch NFL Sunday Ticket with Superfan.

Now when my wife yells at me on Sunday for watching NFL football, I can say "you told me to upgrade" and "DTV is paying me to watch.":lol:

Thanks guys, you're the reason I got a great deal.

[EagleToo]

Sorry for the Double post,

The Install date is set for 9/19 - 2 days.

[Kojo62]

Another forum n00b here, with big thanks to throw Milominderbinder2's way. :)

Thanks to your tips, I was able to get:

1 HR20 @ $199.00 (w/ std. installation & 5-LNB dish)
3 months free HD service @ $9.99 /mo. = $29.97 off
12 months service credit @ $10.00 /mo. = $120.00 off

My net upgrade cost: $49.03

My install is Thursday, even though they were available earlier. They did not want either of my current DirecTiVos in trade.

D*'s not quite paying me to upgrade like Eagle Two, ;) but 49 bucks is a sore-sight better than $299.99.

[zathras]

First attempt
Talked to Lauren
I was put on hold, then offered HR20 at regular price of 299, but with a credit for HD & DVR service for a year, which amounts to about $180.
I politely declined and will try again in a few days..

Also, I did find out I have 4 hearts.. for whatever that's worth.. :)

[tealcomp]

First attempt
Talked to Lauren
I was put on hold, then offered HR20 at regular price of 299, but with a credit for HD & DVR service for a year, which amounts to about $180.
I politely declined and will try again in a few days..

Also, I did find out I have 4 hearts.. for whatever that's worth.. :)

Just keep at it; I think it took me 3 times to obtain my goal. CSR's are just like anyone else, there are good ones and then there are not so good ones :)
I sincerely believe though that D* does not like losing out to the competition.

Best of luck to you :)

-Dan

[dscott72]

On D* website they are saying..."Lease upgrade only $299 including standard professional installation if selected". I called a CSR and was quoted the same price plus $19.95 for shipping and handling. My question is if this is a "Lease" why is it so much, it seems for that much that you are buying it. Most leases have a standard monthly charge for the receiver. I already have an HR10-250 that I own and have HD service, so I know about the HD monthly charge.

Can anyone clarify this for me?

[RegGeek]

Yes, even at $299 it is still leased equipment. However, many have successfully negotiated a lower price for the HR20 or been able to obtain programming discounts to offset the cost.

If you keep your HR10 connected and add an HR20 the "second" receiver will incurr a $4.99/mo programming/mirroring/lease fee (call it what you will). The first receiver on your account does not incur this fee. It is only for the second and each additional reciever you add to the account.

Make sense?

[jfosut]

Finally called DTV again last night. Add me to the list of Milominderbinder2 lovers! Here's a recap on my calls:

#1) $249. Best they can do
#2) $199, 6mos HD, 3mos HBO. Best they can do
#3) $99, no shipping, free install, 6mos HD, 3mos HBO

I was considering trying to go lower, but figured that I was satisfied with this deal, since the programming credits more or less offset the price of the box. I was equally nice to all three of the CSR's... The third guy was one of the nicest CSRs I've dealt with at any company!

They had install dates as early as Thursday in my area, but Saturday was available and I'll be at home watching football anyhow, so I went for that. Thanks again for the advice... You folks that aren't getting good deals just be nice and keep trying! You'll get what you want if you're patient! :)

[dscott72]

I will have to get the number to retention and see if I can get a deal. I know about the mirror fee, I have a 2nd D* Tivo that is upstairs, but isn't HD.

[Sirshagg]

First attempt
Talked to Lauren
I was put on hold, then offered HR20 at regular price of 299, but with a credit for HD & DVR service for a year, which amounts to about $180.
I politely declined and will try again in a few days..

Also, I did find out I have 4 hearts.. for whatever that's worth.. :)
:welcome_s

[Sirshagg]

I got the HR-20 for 19.95 and three months free HBO, Showtime, and Starz, also 6 months customer appreciation 10 dollars off bill, but I'd like to get another dvr should I keep trying or be happy with want I got. I see other people have gotten them and more programing as well. Oh yeah almost forgot, thanks for all the info Milominderbinder2 it helped a lot. Install date 9/22.
:welcome_s

[Sirshagg]

I will about ditto Dan. Called up, asked for cancel, got an incredibly friendly CSR. Explained that I was at an equipment crossroads (Under no commitment running a Sony HD3000 & Phillips Directv/TIVO {which I said could only pulled from my cold, dead hands}). She was quick to offer a free year of HD programming, but when I said I really needed to the equip upgrade and mentioned others getting the HR20 for $21.35, she gave it to me. Turns out I had four hearts too, so I am guessing that played into it.

The whole call took ten minutes. Thanks for all of the help!

Mike
:welcome_s

[msmith]

The trick to getting Retention is to say "cancel" at the customer service prompt (tell me how I can help?). You'll then be asked if you want to change programming or cancel service. Say "cancel" again.

When you get retention, DON'T talk about canceling. Be honest - if you have FIOS in your neighborhood now and are considering switching say so but tell them you want to stay with DirecTV. Tell them what you want, and what price you want it at. BE POLITE AND CIVIL.

Good luck!

[BK89]

Woohoo! I found out I am 4 hearts and that I only had one month commitment left...

First attempt - CSR was not very flexible. The best deal she could do was $100 off HR20 (so $199). She wouldn't even tell me # the hearts I am (couldn't give out that information). Thanked her and hung up.

Second attempt - Called right back and got a very nice CSR named Chris (female so maybe Kris)? Anyways, she took some time to look over my account and said she would be able to give me the HR20 for $19 handling fee only. I asked what else she could do and was offered free HD service for 3 month and free Showtime for 3 months. I asked if there was anyway to extend the HD service fee waiver for 6 months and she said OK.

So I get the new dish, HR20, 6 months HD and 3 months showtime for $20, I think that is pretty good. Thanks for all the help!!

[Sirshagg]

Woohoo! I found out I am 4 hearts and that I only had one year commitment left...

First attempt - CSR was not very flexible. The best deal she could do was $100 off HR20 (so $199). She wouldn't even tell me # the hearts I am (couldn't give out that information). Thanked her and hung up.

Second attempt - Called right back and got a very nice CSR named Chris (female so maybe Kris)? Anyways, she took some time to look over my account and said she would be able to give me the HR20 for $19 handling fee only. I asked what else she could do and was offered free HD service for 3 month and free Showtime for 3 months. I asked if there was anyway to extend the HD service fee waiver for 6 months and she said OK.

So I get the new dish, HR20, 6 months HD and 3 months showtime for $20, I think that is pretty good. Thanks for all the help!!

Great deal.
:welcome_s

[cmcoggon]

Hello all. New here and have been watching the D10 thread, like most, in anticipation of the HD channels!
Anyway, the reason I am posting is that I just got off the phone with D* and I am getting the HR20 for $20! IT took 2 CSRs, 1 "Supervisor" and a Retention Tech to get it, but I stayed polite, yet firm. I told him that I couldn't accept paying $299 because "why would you pay $15,000 and then a monthly lease for a car?". That's basically the gist of what I would be doing. Waiting on the local installers to call back with an appointment time due to D* having to overnight the HR20 to them.

Anyway, great forum. Very informational!

[Sirshagg]

Hello all. New here and have been watching the D10 thread, like most, in anticipation of the HD channels!
Anyway, the reason I am posting is that I just got off the phone with D* and I am getting the HR20 for $20! IT took 2 CSRs, 1 "Supervisor" and a Retention Tech to get it, but I stayed polite, yet firm. I told him that I couldn't accept paying $299 because "why would you pay $15,000 and then a monthly lease for a car?". That's basically the gist of what I would be doing. Waiting on the local installers to call back with an appointment time due to D* having to overnight the HR20 to them.

Anyway, great forum. Very informational!
:welcome_s

[Milominderbinder2]

I got the HR-20 for 19.95 and three months free HBO, Showtime, and Starz, also 6 months customer appreciation 10 dollars off bill. Oh yeah almost forgot, thanks for all the info Milominderbinder2 it helped a lot. Install date 9/22.
Way to go SirLagzalot! For anyone else who has not upgraded...

These are the magic words to use. (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938)

- Craig

[smokes20]

Newbie too. Although I am a returning customer having been with Directv since 2000, I left April 06 thinking the cable co's deal was better for me. Boy was I wrong. So I called last week, my acct info is still in the system.

First call I was offered the HR20 for 199.00
10.00 for 10 months credit
10.00 for 12 months credit
Cinamax, Starz, Encore for 6 months
said I would think about, then she offered me HD access free for 12 months.

Days later I talk with a close friend who has been with Directv only 3 years and moved. He got the HR20 for free. Huh ..... so I called again, this time I told them I wanted to cancel my installation and told them why. After 20 minutes of discussions telling me why my first deal was so great, told him I would have to think about it. He then tells me he can credit my account immediately for the balance of the HR20 and I still get the other discounts when my install is completed and activated.

So, the credit has already been posted to my account and the HR20 is free.

Glad I found this forum. It is filled with a wealth of info and people who know what they are talking about. Thanks everyone.

[Sirshagg]

Newbie too. Although I am a returning customer having been with Directv since 2000, I left April 06 thinking the cable co's deal was better for me. Boy was I wrong. So I called last week, my acct info is still in the system.

First call I was offered the HR20 for 199.00
10.00 for 10 months credit
10.00 for 12 months credit
Cinamax, Starz, Encore for 6 months
said I would think about, then she offered me HD access free for 12 months.

Days later I talk with a close friend who has been with Directv only 3 years and moved. He got the HR20 for free. Huh ..... so I called again, this time I told them I wanted to cancel my installation and told them why. After 20 minutes of discussions telling me why my first deal was so great, told him I would have to think about it. He then tells me he can credit my account immediately for the balance of the HR20 and I still get the other discounts when my install is completed and activated.

So, the credit has already been posted to my account and the HR20 is free.

Glad I found this forum. It is filled with a wealth of info and people who know what they are talking about. Thanks everyone.

:welcome_s and congrats on the deal.

[ejeffreyhorn]

First of all, thanks to all of you who have posted your experiences and advice. Great resource here at DBStalk.

I had been sitting on the fence with upgrading to the new equipment. I love my HR10-250. I payed $1000 for it soon after it was released and it has been worth every penny. I also have another SD tivo in another bedroom. And I love the Tivo interface...

But with the imminent arrival of the new HD channels, I broke down and called today to see about an upgrade. It took 2 calls to get the deal I wanted...

Background: D* customer for 9 years, autopay customer, premier package, current contract has expired

First Call:
I called and asked for "customer retention" at the automated prompt and was immediately connected to a CSR. I explained that I wanted to upgrade my equipment to the new HD equipment in both rooms. Best offer was to replace the HR10-250 with an HR20 for $99 plus tax and replace SD tivo with another HR20 at $99 plus tax. No programming discounts. I asked if that was the best they could do and the answer was yes. No Deal. I did ask the CSR about my "hearts" rating and was told that I was a 4. (We laughed and determined that there was a staff of 5 at D* dedicated solely to deriving the algorithm for determining stars... but I digress)

Second Call:
Called again a few hours later and indicated that I wanted to upgrade both of my receivers to HD and wanted to see what they could do. The CSR offered to replace both receivers with HR20's for a total of $99. He also offered me a deal that involved Sunday Ticket. He gave me a discount on the premier package - $69.99/mo. for 4 months vs $99.99/mo. and FREE Sunday Ticket.

Net net - $99 - $120 (4 months at $30 discount) = $21 savings + Sunday Ticket.

I took it and ran as my goal was a minimum of break even on the deal. Installation is on Monday with the new 5LNB dish included. Got to keep the old equipment as well.

Pretty satisfied overall...

Once again thanks to all of you especially Milominderbinder2 for the help and advice.

[Sirshagg]

First of all, thanks to all of you who have posted your experiences and advice. Great resource here at DBStalk.

I had been sitting on the fence with upgrading to the new equipment. I love my HR10-250. I payed $1000 for it soon after it was released and it has been worth every penny. I also have another SD tivo in another bedroom. And I love the Tivo interface...

But with the imminent arrival of the new HD channels, I broke down and called today to see about an upgrade. It took 2 calls to get the deal I wanted...

Background: D* customer for 9 years, autopay customer, premier package, current contract has expired

First Call:
I called and asked for "customer retention" at the automated prompt and was immediately connected to a CSR. I explained that I wanted to upgrade my equipment to the new HD equipment in both rooms. Best offer was to replace the HR10-250 with an HR20 for $99 plus tax and replace SD tivo with another HR20 at $99 plus tax. No programming discounts. I asked if that was the best they could do and the answer was yes. No Deal. I did ask the CSR about my "hearts" rating and was told that I was a 4. (We laughed and determined that there was a staff of 5 at D* dedicated solely to deriving the algorithm for determining stars... but I digress)

Second Call:
Called again a few hours later and indicated that I wanted to upgrade both of my receivers to HD and wanted to see what they could do. The CSR offered to replace both receivers with HR20's for a total of $99. He also offered me a deal that involved Sunday Ticket. He gave me a discount on the premier package - $69.99/mo. for 4 months vs $99.99/mo. and FREE Sunday Ticket.

Net net - $99 - $120 (4 months at $30 discount) = $21 savings + Sunday Ticket.

I took it and ran as my goal was a minimum of break even on the deal. Installation is on Monday with the new 5LNB dish included. Got to keep the old equipment as well.

Pretty satisfied overall...

Once again thanks to all of you especially Milominderbinder2 for the help and advice.
:welcome_s

[zathras]

After my failed attempt last nite, I called again tonite. I used the 'cancel service' to go straight out of the voice system to the CSR queue. After 35 minutes of friggin music I hung up and called right back.

Bingo, within a minute "Tammy" had answered.
I told her I wanted to find out my contract expiration date. I said we just got a new HD projector and my wife was wanting to go back to timewarner because she wanted an HD DVR. I said that I really liked dtv, and I wanted to call them first to see what they had to offer in the way of hd dvrs
She said right away (in a very sweet, cutesy voice)- 'oh we have 30 new HD channels coming in tomorrow, and we know they are going to be there because the rockets carrying them have cleared the atmosphere and did not blow up'!!

I swear to god she said that.. I knew right away I was gonna be golden... she was giggly and so friendly and I just gave it right back to her, asking her about the rockets (she told me they lost one last year which had delayed the HD rollout)... then she proceeded to tell me all the channels coming online tomorrow, and then all the ones next month, and yadda yadda yadda...

She said so I can get you a free hd dvr but it will cost you 19.95 for shipping. then she looked at my account and saw we had an older hd unit, and said we were eligible for a free upgrade because it wouldn't get all the new channels. I said can I get it upgraded to an HD Dvr? she put me on hold for about 5 mins, and finally came back and told me all she could offer was 99.60 for the hd to hddvr upgrade.
I took her up on that of course.
I did also ask about any programming offers and she said the only thing going was nfl ticket. I would enjoy, but I go to 8 games a year so I'd be wasting half of it, so I declined...

so, bottom line is 3 calls total (counting the one they never answered)
2 HD DVR's, installation of a new dish, & replacing or adding to my current 5x8 matrix as needed (currently have 7 lines in use and I'll need 3 more)
total $120
I guess I could have asked for programming credits or something, but overall I'm pretty happy
install 10/2 evening install

Other info
Currently been with Dtv for nearly 3 years. 4 Hearts
contract expires dec 2008.
current equipment
4 SD
1 HD
1 SD dvr

soon to be
4 SD
1 SD dvr
2 HD dvr!!

Thanks for the suggestions and ideas on this forum! good luck to others!

[lbweber]

:dance01:

I am delighted to say I have joined the Milominderbinder2 fan club. I have been lurking for a long time and decided it was time to take the plunge. First call was $199 - end of story. I waited a month and tried it Milominderbinder2's way. No hassle, got right to $19.95 and they waived the $5.99 DVR fee for a year. When I asked for a H20 too they gave me a choice between a no charge H20 or waiving the $5.99for a year.

Bottom line
----------------------
$19.95 one time and $5.99 more a month and I have two new HD receivers (H20 and HR20). Simple and does the trick.
Larry

BTW I still am using a TiVO series 1 with 250 GB disks and almost all my programing comes from that. If the HR20 becomes the main receiver that will be a real win.

[I8AZuk]

I am delighted to say I have joined the Milominderbinder2 fan club.
+1. Although it wasn't really hard to get my upgrade. Figuring I'd need to make a few calls, I started with a non-retention CSR and asked what it would cost to upgrade my R15 to an HR20. I mentioned that Mrs. Zuk has claimed our current HR20 for hers as she's on bed rest for the next four months (true).

Just like that he offered me the upgrade for $19.95 S&H with a 9/25 install. I'm glad I found DBSTalk, this thread, and Milominderbinder2's compilation of magic words. But I'm elated that I didn't have to use any of it. :D

[Lee L]

Well, I finally called them last night. In my favor, I am paying about $120 per month (Premium, platinum, or whatever the package with everythign other than PPV is called) normally and we get the College football package, plus we have 4 receivers active, including 2 HR10-250s that need swapping for HR20s plus we need the new dish. Against me is that we have only subbed since April or May of 2004, when the HR10-250 came out and we switched from Dish network.

I initially let the regular CSR pick up and she wanted me to pay $199 each, I was reall nice and so was she, but I told her thanks, but I just did not feel that was a fair offer in light of all the conference calls stating they would swap for "little to no cost" and asked to speak to customer retention. She did some recordkeeping then transferred me.

Once Retention got on the line, it was a little better. They did have me down as having only one HR10-250 since I think the first one was set up wrong since the CSR did not know what one was. (it was activated maybe the second week of their existence). After he did that, he tried to see what he could do. He wanted me to pay $99 each and pointed out that these receivers are worth "over a thousand dollars each" and I was getting a great deal. I told him that I did not think that was fair.

He said he knew about the conference calls and said this was their definition of little to no cost. I told him that I had read online that many people have gotten better deals and I thought it was silly of DirecTV to risk losing a customer paying over $1500 a year over a couple of hundred dollars. He told me that what is on an internet forum or Fatwallet is not an official offer and people could make things up. I told hims I was still not happy and after a few rounds back and forth he put me on hold and told me he would see what he could do. He came back and offered to waive the cost of one HR20, plus all the shipping charges and the dish swap. I asked him what kind of programming credits they had and he found 5 bucks a month for 6 months he could use and said he would keep me as paying no DVR fee. I told him it seemed fair enough so they set up the install. The earliest they had was about 3 weeks, but I can deal with that. Overall, my phone said I was on the call for 47 minutes plus.

So, bottom line is, you can still get deals, but the Fatwallet thread someone mentioned earlier has hurt your chances a little probably.

[Milominderbinder2]

:dance01:

I am delighted to say I have joined the Milominderbinder2 fan club...

Bottom line
----------------------
$19.95 one time and $5.99 more a month and I have two new HD receivers (H20 and HR20). Simple and does the trick.
Larry...
:welcome_s

Congratulations!

I am happy that you were still able to get the deal. I think that once they do turn on the new HD Channels they may have to pull the plug because they will be so slammed with orders.

Has anyone been able to get the deal today? (these are the magic words to use) (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938)

- Craig

[gizzorge]

:welcome_s

Congratulations!

I am happy that you were still able to get the deal. I think that once they do turn on the new HD Channels they may have to pull the plug because they will be so slammed with orders.

Has anyone been able to get the deal today? (these are the magic words to use) (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938)

- Craig

Hi all,

Well, I tried twice today, and got the $199 "special." I asked if they could go lower, and they said that since I just activated in February that's the best they could do. I guess I'll just wait a while longer! One offered $10 credits for 10 months (and paying full price) and the other offered paying just $200...

On a different note, I will say that the CSRs in the retention department are much friendlier! :lol:

[echyde]

Called in today hoping to get the 19.95 deal. I just got an HR-20 about two months ago for 99 dollars along with one free year of HD and a statement credit of 20 dollars for six months.

First CSR said it would be 299 to get another HR-20. I have a legitimate need because my HD Tivo died this past week (can't see blue colors with component cables and the HDMI port has been dead for like 8 months). I bought the HD Tivo brand new about a year and a half or so ago and unforunately it was literally days before DirectTV switched to leasing. So... I'm stuck with a 699$ rock. After a few more minutes she said she could offer me 199 but that she couldn't go any lower. She did say my account had "excellent credit" and that if she could go any lower she would.

Second CSR didn't even put me on hold. I told her what the first CSR offered but said that after a discussion my wife wouldn't let me do that. She giggled and came back with the 19.95 for shipping offer.

The First CSR didn't really want to drop the price until I mentioned the Wife factor. Then she instantly dropped it 100 bucks. If you are married and get a female CSR then you should drop something in about your wife. In both cases I got a better deal because of it.

My install date is this Friday between 8-12AM! How lucky is that?

[gizzorge]

Thanks for the tip. I called back tonight and mentioned what was going on here after my attempts to upgrade to the HR20 earlier today. The girlfriend was out to cancel D* based on principle (didn't matter that we'd have to pay $$$ to get out of the contract). She was on the phone this evening calling the cable company to see what deals we could get to return. I wanted to keep D*. The CSR was rolling. I thought he'd have to breathe when I told him I needed to do this quick while she went to McDonald's...

After much waiting... I heard "please bear with me" a lot, I got the free + 19 deal. Installation is Friday. :hurah:

I didn't press hard for programming credits because I was happy to get that. The CSR told me that it was free and that I still had free Showtime and Starz until December from my original offer.

I was considering buying one off eBay, but then I thought if it ever crashed... I'd be out of $200. Thanks for your help! Now I am going to be posting questions about how to tweak it. :lol:

[dscott72]

I just got off the phone with one agent, not sure which group, told my heart level was for and the best she could offer me was defering the cost of the unit over 3 months, but she would give me a credit of $100. I think I will call back in the morning and see if I can use the "wife wants to move to cable" and see what happens.

[zathras]

I just got off the phone with one agent, not sure which group, told my heart level was for and the best she could offer me was defering the cost of the unit over 3 months, but she would give me a credit of $100. I think I will call back in the morning and see if I can use the "wife wants to move to cable" and see what happens.


that seemed to work magic for me... good luck!

[fredandbetty]

Hi all,

Well, I tried twice today, and got the $199 "special." I asked if they could go lower, and they said that since I just activated in February that's the best they could do. I guess I'll just wait a while longer! One offered $10 credits for 10 months (and paying full price) and the other offered paying just $200...

On a different note, I will say that the CSRs in the retention department are much friendlier! :lol:

well i activated in Feb also and got the $19.99 deal just last week! ( after a LOT of trying)!!!

but really try reading milominderbender2's posts! they do work!

[NiteOwl]

Well my 2nd install appointment has come and gone.

Yesterday I was scheduled for a 1-5 appointment after being given the "installers wife had to be taken to the hospital" excuse last Friday. As with the first time, I confirmed my appointment with the local idiot installers the day before. I was called at 11AM and told, "We don't have any HR20s, but the truck is on the way."

I called D to complain about the horrible service and the CSR did not offer any compensation other than saying she would forward my complaint to corporate. I asked for a credit for my trouble and she said she could not, but would have a Supervisor call me back - never heard back from D.

Local installer Supervisor called and rescheduled for tomorrow morning - we try again.

At least I am not missing any days of all the new HD yet!!!

[gizzorge]

I have never had problems with the crews in my area, thankfully. Actually they put in a pole and buried my 75'+ of line for free. The alignment was awesome as well.

I hope it's the same crew and that I don't have any problems tomorrow with my HR20 install. I am taking off a half day of work to be home for them (12-5), and it would be so unfortunate if they didn't show. I'd be a bit upset.

On those tips, it did mention to get a morning install to ensure they have the equipment. Of course, I didn't follow that because I couldn't leave work... we shall see!

[Milominderbinder2]

You are towards the bottom of the checklist. The steps at the end on getting a good isntall are critical:

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

Has anyone been able to still get the $19 deal today? With the HD CHannels delayed, that offer might still be valid...

- Craig

[vulcanman]

I wanted to share my recent experience with Dish Network..


I recently called Dish Network to enquire about their service and how it compared with the Comcast service I presently have. I told the CSR that I had two 8300HD DVRs from Comcast and I would be interested in Dish only if they offered me a similar setup.

The CSR proceeded to offer me a invitation for two ViP722 DVRs .... I made him repeat the offer a couple of times ... and to ensure he was not mixing model numbers I made sure that both the boxes were High Definition DVRs. I grabbed it and scheduled the install.

Well ... a few minutes ago ... another CSR called me to confirm the appt. and in doing so divulged that I was getting one 722 box and one 625 (non-DVR) box. When I told him what I was promised ... he said there was no way the system would allow that and the CSR would never promise such a thing ... thereby insinuating that I was lying !!!

To say the least, I am disgusted with these guys !!

[Milominderbinder2]

From the last few steps in Getting a Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938)...

With DIRECTV you can almost instantly see what they have entered using these links:

9. Click here to verify your order. (https://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/mydirectv/account/myAccountViewOrders.jsp) Or call Customer Installation Support (CIS) at 1-888-355-7530.
10. Click here to see if you can move up your installation date. (https://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/mydirectv/account/myAccountViewOrders.jsp?type=reschedule) You may need to check several times to get a great delivery date.
11. Click here to verify your changes to your bill. (https://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/mydirectv/account/myAccountViewActivity.jsp)

I don't know how it works with DISH.

- Craig

[jrsouthside]

I have been reading this post for about two months now just to see what everyone has been getting, and finally yesterday decided to give it a try.

And just for a little background: I have only been a customer since February of this year, plus hd package w/ HBO, Starz, and Nascar Hotpass, one H20 and one regular receiver.

First I called and decided just to test the water, so I just went to a regular csr. I asked what it would cost to upgrade from my H20 to a HR20. Of course I was told the standard $299, so I asked if they had any specials and the rep said that was the lease price and it was a discount off the $700+ price if I were to buy it. Then I asked what would be my cx fee (thinking they would send me to retentions) she told me and said was that all I needed. I said yes and hung up.

I then waited about 20 mins and decided to call back. I just said cx at the first prompt, so I would go straight to retentions. I got a really, really nice rep with retentions, and asked what would be my cx fee. Of course I new that with any retentions that it would prompt the why question. So basically I just said that I was looking to get a DVR but really was not satisfied with having to pay $299 to lease one. Of course I stayed polite and did not 'gripe' at the rep, just basically kept it conversational and lite. She said give me one second to look at the rest of your account and within seconds told me that I qualified to get a HR20 for just a $19.99 handling fee. I took it right away, the whole thing took all of maybe five minutes. I was surprised considering I was such a new customer.

Thanks to everyone on here who posted their own experiences and information.

[Sirshagg]

I have been reading this post for about two months now just to see what everyone has been getting, and finally yesterday decided to give it a try.

And just for a little background: I have only been a customer since February of this year, plus hd package w/ HBO, Starz, and Nascar Hotpass, one H20 and one regular receiver.

First I called and decided just to test the water, so I just went to a regular csr. I asked what it would cost to upgrade from my H20 to a HR20. Of course I was told the standard $299, so I asked if they had any specials and the rep said that was the lease price and it was a discount off the $700+ price if I were to buy it. Then I asked what would be my cx fee (thinking they would send me to retentions) she told me and said was that all I needed. I said yes and hung up.

I then waited about 20 mins and decided to call back. I just said cx at the first prompt, so I would go straight to retentions. I got a really, really nice rep with retentions, and asked what would be my cx fee. Of course I new that with any retentions that it would prompt the why question. So basically I just said that I was looking to get a DVR but really was not satisfied with having to pay $299 to lease one. Of course I stayed polite and did not 'gripe' at the rep, just basically kept it conversational and lite. She said give me one second to look at the rest of your account and within seconds told me that I qualified to get a HR20 for just a $19.99 handling fee. I took it right away, the whole thing took all of maybe five minutes. I was surprised considering I was such a new customer.

Thanks to everyone on here who posted their own experiences and information.
:welcome_s You have sucessfully completed dialing for deals and you are a WINNER! Congrats.

[vid53]

I am interested in joining Directv and they want to charge me $200 for an HD DVR and 3 standard receivers. Dish network does not charge for their equipment.
I was wondering if anyone has gotten a better deal.You would think they would do anything to get a new customer.

Vid53

[DrZaiusATL]

No deal....I joined way way to early....Paid over 1000.00 for just the dish and RX. Plus they did not have installation back then, you had to do it yourself.

[shendley]

A buddy of mine who just got an HD Plasma television called up DTV today and got a very sweet deal on an HR20. He referenced a Dish offer for HD (not sure exactly what it was, though) and asked if DTV could do something similar. He got the HR20 for $19.95 S&H, free installation of the new dish, free move of one DVR to another room with new lines being run for him. And he got free HD access for 6 months. He's been with DTV for a few years now. Has Total Choice or Total Choice Plus and HBO. Has had Center Ice for at least a couple of years and the Sports Pack.

And he got all of this on his first call. Sometimes you get lucky!

[captain16vgti]

Another success story here. I read a post on here a few days ago where a member emailed DTV explaining how unhappy he was with the price of the HR-20 and how he really didn't want to leave them but he was offered such good deals with his local cable providers. He said he got a call back and was able to get the HR-20 for $199.99. After reading that post I found a few where members had stated that they were able to get there's for $19.99. After reading those posts I decided to do what the first gentlemen did and see if I could pull off the $19.99 deal. I made a email similar to his explaining how outrageous the price of the HR-20 was and how id been a long time customer.

I got a call back a few days later from a fairly nice women. She explained to me that the box was $299.99 and there really wasn't anything she could do about the price. I told her that I didn't want to leave but I might very well do so. She replied asking if I would be happy with $199.99. I told her it was better but still to much. She then went on to say that she was going to make a note of it on my account and the offer would stand for 30 days. Well today I read a few more posts regarding the $19.99 deal so I figured I would call back again and try my luck. I called DTV and asked for a retention CSR. The CSR asked me what it was concerning.

I told her a price that I was quoted for a HR-20. She said she would check my account and see if there was a note of any kind. She soon replied saying that she found a note with a offer and that she would transfer me to retentions. I was soon connected to a very nice gentleman. I told him that I had been offered a deal on a HR-20 and wanted to see if there was any way I could get a better one. He asked for my phone # and addy and asked me to hold. After a few minutes of holding he came back to tell me that he was sure he could get me a way better deal and then asked me to hold on again. He then came back and told me that he could pretty much give it to me for free but I would have to pay the shipping which was $19.99.

I told him to sign me and that was that. I wanted to ask for some programming promotions like some had got but I didn't want to push my luck. Sorry about the long story but I figured I would share just in case some of you wanted to read it. Now I just have to wait for them to contact me regarding the install date. I cant wait !!

-Chris

[Rinkleroot]

I wanted to share my recent experience with Dish Network..


I recently called Dish Network to enquire about their service and how it compared with the Comcast service I presently have. I told the CSR that I had two 8300HD DVRs from Comcast and I would be interested in Dish only if they offered me a similar setup.

The CSR proceeded to offer me a invitation for two ViP722 DVRs .... I made him repeat the offer a couple of times ... and to ensure he was not mixing model numbers I made sure that both the boxes were High Definition DVRs. I grabbed it and scheduled the install.

Well ... a few minutes ago ... another CSR called me to confirm the appt. and in doing so divulged that I was getting one 722 box and one 625 (non-DVR) box. When I told him what I was promised ... he said there was no way the system would allow that and the CSR would never promise such a thing ... thereby insinuating that I was lying !!!

To say the least, I am disgusted with these guys !!


I don't know how dish network is to deal with but I've had directv csr's tell me that there was no way anyone got the hr20 for free when I tried to get one even after I told her I knew people that had gotten them she still insisted that they did not get one for free. I don't think you can judge either company by the what csr's are saying.

[jangell2]

I gotta say this has been one of the most informative and helpful threads I've ever encountered, but I have a question. When I scheduled my HD install the earliest AM I could get was 10/01. They gave me the name and number of the company that would do the install. BTW, same company that did my initial install.

I called them and there was nothing earlier and they put me on a list to call if they got any cancellations.

So I go online and find that there are earlier dates. I could have gotten a date on 9/25 in the evening, but decided to stick with the morning and got 10/27. Not a bunch of days earlier, but it's one extra weekend of football.

Why couldn't they have just given me an earlier date in the first place when I was on the phone.:confused:

[AlbertZeroK]

I gotta say this has been one of the most informative and helpful threads I've ever encountered, but I have a question. When I scheduled my HD install the earliest AM I could get was 10/01. They gave me the name and number of the company that would do the install. BTW, same company that did my initial install.

I called them and there was nothing earlier and they put me on a list to call if they got any cancellations.

So I go online and find that there are earlier dates. I could have gotten a date on 9/25 in the evening, but decided to stick with the morning and got 10/27. Not a bunch of days earlier, but it's one extra weekend of football.

Why couldn't they have just given me an earlier date in the first place when I was on the phone.:confused:

The installation company may have had employees volunteer to work extra days to pick up some extra scratch and handle the influx of work load. In short, 10/27 may not have been available when you talked with the CSR, then the install company had a tech that said, I'll work 10/27 instead of taking a day off to make extra money, and that's how 10/27 got available.

[BK EH]

I used the "script" and here's what I got 10 minutes ago:

HR20 and an H20 and dish install, multiswitch (SWM not available yet, but Retention/she knew exactly what it was), 6 mo HD pack credit and remove old dish. They also need a 40ft ladder here so that was noted, too. No "shipping" charge.

I have 4 hearts and she laughed when I asked. She said that they are phasing that system out and while it still shows and has bearing from a "good acct" POV, it does not mean anything going forward. Oct 3rd morning install -- but could have had it next Mon if not for a conflict at our end.

Cheers! :)

[msmith]

Just a note - both installers that I had yesterday were scheduled for 4 morning installs (which Superman couldn't pull off) and ZERO afternoon installs.

Me thinks Ironwood is playing games with scheduling.

[jangell2]

Just a note - both installers that I had yesterday were scheduled for 4 morning installs (which Superman couldn't pull off) and ZERO afternoon installs.

Me thinks Ironwood is playing games with scheduling.Is Ironwood a national outfit? That's who's doing my install in AR.

[Mr. Furious]

All this stuff about Ironwood makes me glad Mastec is my local install outfit, and it's not like they have an unblemished reputation.

[redskin9]

Well my 2nd install appointment has come and gone.

Yesterday I was scheduled for a 1-5 appointment after being given the "installers wife had to be taken to the hospital" excuse last Friday. As with the first time, I confirmed my appointment with the local idiot installers the day before. I was called at 11AM and told, "We don't have any HR20s, but the truck is on the way."

I called D to complain about the horrible service and the CSR did not offer any compensation other than saying she would forward my complaint to corporate. I asked for a credit for my trouble and she said she could not, but would have a Supervisor call me back - never heard back from D.

Local installer Supervisor called and rescheduled for tomorrow morning - we try again.

At least I am not missing any days of all the new HD yet!!!

Let me guess. Had to be Mastec / Advanced technologies right ? Went thru similar issues with them recently. Called D* and voiced my opinions of the poor customer service being provided by them. Was given $100 missed appt credit and 6 mo free
HD service. Eventualy got upgrade at 3:30 pm that day for a 8-12 appt also. Down side was all the time wasted sitting around and agravation.

It always some issue. Flat tire, started late, installer sick/called out, equipment not available, kids sick, wifes sick, dog has fleas , full moon , no moon etc. I understand things happen but it seems to be a pattern with these guys. :nono2:

[Milominderbinder2]

I used the "script" and here's what I got 10 minutes ago...
Congratulations! Do not skip steps 9-12 for after you place your order. They are just as critical.

I must say I am a bit surprised. If it were not for the HD delay I doubt that would still be possible.

Here are the steps if anyone else still has not done it yet...

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

- Craig

[redskin9]

I am interested in joining Directv and they want to charge me $200 for an HD DVR and 3 standard receivers. Dish network does not charge for their equipment.
I was wondering if anyone has gotten a better deal.You would think they would do anything to get a new customer.

Vid53

Sounds about right. They usually give either free HD or standard DVR upgrade for one set and then the rest costs. Standard rcvs are free.After about 6 months you should be able to start negoitiating upgrading your standard receivers if you're interested. Be aware that Dish won't be able to compete with HD offerings from D* shortly ( already has been delayed, we're all impatiently waiting).

[kallen]

i got an hr20 for $19.95 only two weeks ago on my first call with no haggling. yesterday i called and asked for another one and said i didn't want to pay 299. csr said let me check our offers, came back in 5 minutes and said i can have one for free. scheduled in october.

[rebaztec]

Let me guess. Had to be Mastec / Advanced technologies right ? Went thru similar issues with them recently. Called D* and voiced my opinions of the poor customer service being provided by them. Was given $100 missed appt credit and 6 mo free
HD service. Eventualy got upgrade at 3:30 pm that day for a 8-12 appt also. Down side was all the time wasted sitting around and agravation.

It always some issue. Flat tire, started late, installer sick/called out, equipment not available, kids sick, wifes sick, dog has fleas , full moon , no moon etc. I understand things happen but it seems to be a pattern with these guys. :nono2:

This happened to me 5 times last year. $500, actually a LOT more than that after deals and credits and screw ups. Every time a CSR looks at my acct. they laugh. WTH happened here...Ironwood Com. You still suck!

[VelvetUn]

I've been reading the boards since March keeping up on all the new HD news, but this is my first posting. I had called a couple CSR's on different nights asking to upgrade my H20 to an HR20 without any luck. They wouldn't budge on the $199. Today I pulled up the DISH Network website and created a pseudo package. I called the listed number and talked to a CSR. Previously I had never asked how much it would cost to cancel my commitment, but this time I did. The CSR sent me to Retention, which I found out was the key.

At first the Retention guy offered me the same deal, $199. I gave him the rundown on what DISH was offering, which actually was a good deal. He came back with $199 with 12 months of HD credit, so a total of $79. Since I wanted to trade in my H20 (we only have one HDTV), I wanted to know if he could do any better. He initially put me on hold, then when he came back he said he could offer an additional $75 credit. My total price ended up being $24 with the shipping. Unfortunately my install is two weeks out.

The lesson I learned, for those trying to get an upgrade, make sure you end up in retention and that you have another offer in front of you when on the phone. Thanks for all the messages in this thread, they have definitely proven valuable.

[ExCavTanker]

Knowledge IS power and this forum once again proves that. A couple months ago I got the Slimline dish and an HR20 installed for just $19.95 s&h in addition to programming credit and free Showtime. I still have a H10 and wanted to get another HR20 at the time of the other upgrade but they wanted $199.00 and would not budge.

FF to tonight, not wanting to get stuck by the deluge of calls made by other H10 and H10-250 owners once the new channels go live, I called and mentioned to the gal that answered my call that I don't want to be without HD on that tv.

She was very nice and mentioned that she could replace it with the H20 for free. I said the wife really loves the DVR and wanted one for the bedroom and she came back with $99.00, I said well I'd like to get the s&h deal for the second one (HR20) and she said that was the best she could do since I just got one for $19.95.

I then asked, what is my heart rating? There was silence for a few moments then she chuckled and said, " how do you know about that"? I told her I'm a VERY informed consumer:) . She then told me I was 5 hearts and then said "you're the first person that I've ever talked to that knew about that", and she just laughed again. I said well, can you forward me to retention as they usually have more credit that they can play with, she then said "do you want a job, you sure know what's going on". Then she said, "I'm not going to forward you to retention cause their just going to give it to you anyway".

Bottom line, the initial call taker was able to give me the $19.95 deal for my second HR20! The transaction was finished up with all the details I learned here and applied on my last upgrade install last time (thank you Milominderbinder 2). Install will be October 6th (first Saturday available).

As mentioned, the keys were I was polite, I pay my bill on time and I subscribe to more than just the basic channels (but NO NFL ST), and THE most important, I WAS INFORMED because of the awesome people here on DBSTalk! Hopefully this will help somebody else be successful in their quest for a cheap HR20.

Oh, of course I asked about the new channels and she said she didn't have any info when they were being turned on, oh well at least she didn't give me any false hope:).

[Milominderbinder2]

Here is how to get the $19 deal:

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

I remain convinced that if the new HD were already out, you would not still be able to get the deal. They would have been so backlogged that they will have to go back up to $199 or $299.

That will be because install dates will be so back up they will be back to not even giving install dates.

- Craig

[BudShark]

I'll echo everyone else's sentiments. Thanks all - especially Milominderbinder2!

Been trying for over a month. Actually want 3 HR20s, so here's the full story:

First HR20 - ordered as a replacement for HR10 in May. $99 deal, w/$10/mo HD SVC credit 12 months. Net -$20.
HR10 - setup on 2nd TV and activated Maint. Plan (for future replacement).

Calling for a NEW HR20 (add a new receiver to plan).
Call 1: Original CSRs answer was $299 three+ weeks ago. "Thank you very much, not willing to pay that".

Call 2: Called again, asked for retention and told them the cost to get 2 HD DVRs from Charter/DishNetwork. $150 credit applied immediately making it $150 cost. Getting closer - but not hooked yet.

Call 3: Called next day (this morning) went to retention and told her the deal offerred. Asked if I could get the credit if I bought from Best Buy - No. Told her $150 was still a little too much. She offerred to spread the payments over 3 months. Better - thank you very much. Then I asked, How many hearts am I? Lots of giggling and laughing - "How did you know about that?!?" Well as expected, I am 3 hearts. But now - suddenly she was a lot more "conversational" and working to find a new deal. Within 2 minutes she tacked on a $10/mo programming credit for 12 months. SOLD!

Final Deal for 2nd HR20:
$299 spread over 3 months - $99/month for 3 months.
$150 credit immediately.
$10/mo for 12 months (in addition to HD service credit).
Net: $30

(I did not including shipping/handling)

So again - thanks all! Now I just have to work the installation tech to make sure I get a -700... :D

Chris

[heavyobjects]

Question about the free installation DirecTV sets up with the upgrade to a new HR20:

Does the "free installation" include the running of a second coax to the HR20? I am upgrading from a regular receiver that has only one coax going to it. What should I expect from MasTec (please, no cute answers, I really would like to know)?

TIA

[RAD]

Question about the free installation DirecTV sets up with the upgrade to a new HR20:

Does the "free installation" include the running of a second coax to the HR20? I am upgrading from a regular receiver that has only one coax going to it. What should I expect from MasTec (please, no cute answers, I really would like to know)?

TIA

Yes, it's supposed to, but it will be the easiest/cheapest way to do it. If you want something 'extra' like fishing through a wall they'll probably charge extra for it. Also, if you have any plans to connect an over the air antenna to pull in any HD channels in your area that D* doesn't carry at this time you might want to see if they'll do that at the same time for you to make it easier for you to hook one up later.

[elcid]

I just got an HR20 for $19.95 and it was surprising how easily it went. I asked the CSR what kind of deal he could offer me and he said he wasn't able to give any deals. As I was asking him to transfer me to retention, he said to wait while he talked to his supervisor. After several waits the supervisor came on the line with the offer.

This was my third call and I basically got nothing on the first two.

I've been with D* since Oct '96 and have TC+ with HD but no extras.

I sure want to thank Milominderbinder2 for his pointers. I don't think it would have happened without his help.

[mephisto]

I'm a 6yr subscriber, have 1x HR20, 2x HR10 and 3 SD-Tivos, Premium + HD package, NFLST + SF

I called this morning and told the CSR that I would like to upgrade both my existing HR10 because I can't get HD-locals with them but don't want to pay $299 each. She put me on hold for a few minutes and then offered $99.99 each. I then told her about DISH's offer for free HD-DVR and 6months free HD programming. She countered with $19.95 for 1st and $99.99 for 2nd HR20 but wouldn't offer any discounted programming even though I asked for it.

I could have probably improved by thanking her for the offer and calling back but in the end I was quite happy with it and didn't want to spend more time on the phone. I'll probably return the HR20 that I purchased yesterday at CostCo for $269.99.

Installation date is Tuesday, Sept 25th and I have verified the orders online. Thanks Milominderbinder2 for the excellent write-up.

[gwikeenan]

Just called DirecTV and was able to get a nice deal on a new HR20 and H20 with relatively little pain. First, some background. I've been with D* since 1999 and have had the HD package since 2003. Bought an HR10-250 in 2004 for full retail ($1000). I have a couple of premium channels, but no sports packages and rarely buy PPV. I do automatic billing on my credit card, so D* always gets paid on time.

So I called up the 800 number after reading through many of the posts on this board and feeling very prepared. Told the automated system "cancel service" and was transferred to a retention rep. He asked why I wanted to cancel and I told him that I bought my HR10-250 for full price a few years ago under the (I thought) reasonable assumption that I would be good to go for receiving HD programming for the foreseeable future. I told him I didn't think I could justify spending several hundred more dollars on additional HD equipment to get the new channels and my HD locals. After hearing this, he offered to upgrade my HR10 to the HR20 for $99. I said that still didn't seem good enough, considering Dish is offering a package very comparable to my D* package, with full HD DVR, with no upfront costs. I asked if there was any way D* could match that. He then offered the $99 upgrade again, but threw in an upgrade of an extra receiver to the H20. I said that seemed better, and then asked if I was eligible for any programming credits or offsets. He offered a $10 credit for 12 months, and that sealed the deal.

So, bottom line, I'm getting a new HR20, a new H20, and new Slimline dish plus install, etc. for $99 - ($10 x 12) for a net total of $21 in my favor. My install is scheduled for this coming Wednesday, Sep 26.

Thanks to everyone here for all the useful info!

[sat4r]

I have just hung up with retention and the best deal they offered me is 299.00 no buging at all. They said I got a deal before for 199.00. I took the NFL Sunday Ticket started at 20.00 monthly back in January but that was mysterly dropped off my bill so it cost me more in the long run.This is the 4th call in about two weeks. I am very disappointed.

[Milominderbinder2]

I have just hung up with retention and the best deal they offered me is 299.00 no buging at all. They said I got a deal before for 199.00. I took the NFL Sunday Ticket started at 20.00 monthly back in January but that was mysterly dropped off my bill so it cost me more in the long run.This is the 4th call in about two weeks. I am very disappointed.
Did you follow the steps in the tips:

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

How many Hearts did they say you were? How many month left on your contract? How much is your buyout? How long were you on hold before you were transfered to Rentention?

- Craig

[sat4r]

Did you follow the steps in the tips:

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

How many Hearts did they say you were? How many month left on your contract? How much is your buyout? How long were you on hold before you were transfered to Rentention?

- Craig

Thank you Craig Iwas told I have 4 Hearts.The CSR really got tickled about that and then I was transfered to Rentention. I followed your List to the tee but she wound not bug at all. She sounded like she had a really bad day and I was her release. The call was answered pronto. Thanks for your help

[Milominderbinder2]

Thank you Craig Iwas told I have 4 Hearts.The CSR really got tickled about that and then I was transfered to Rentention. I followed your List to the tee but she wound not bug at all. She sounded like she had a really bad day and I was her release. The call was answered pronto. Thanks for your help
Call right back tonight.

Remember you are dialing for dollars. 5th call is the charm!

- Craig

[sat4r]

Call right back tonight.

Remember you are dialing for dollars. 5th call is the charm!

- Craig

Thanks Craig I will call back right now............... AL

[BK EH]

Congratulations! Do not skip steps 9-12 for after you place your order. They are just as critical.

I must say I am a bit surprised. If it were not for the HD delay I doubt that would still be possible.

Here are the steps if anyone else still has not done it yet...

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

- Craig
Not to worry -- got it covered, Craig! Your tips are very good!!!

BTW, I am a customer w/ auto-pay since 1999. Never had more than Total choice w/ HD pack and the occasional stint of HBO (have that now). Have had a Sammy 160, a Sammy 360, a Hughes HD, an HR10-250, all owned, and am 300 bucks NET ahead of the game on all 4 purchases totalled since the 160 first hit. I'm net 65 bucks out of pocket on this deal (not that I'm complaining), but fully expect to make it back next year... :lol:

Note to all for now, next week and next year: Smile, talk sweetly and carry a firm doubt!

[Southpaw]

2nd HR20 order a success....

Back in May, I ordered an H20 and an HR20 and paid $0. With only 4 months past, I was wondering how D* would take my request to replace my HR10 with another HR20. I told the regular CSR (I didn't go to retention) that with the new HD channels coming up, my HR10 would be obsolete. She checked my account and started out by offering me the $99 upgrade special. I replied with an "oh, so it would cost me $99 + s/h to get the receiver that can get these new channels?" and she replied yes, but I see here I can give you a credit for the $99 and you would only pay s/h. I agreed to that. So I have installation set up for a 2nd HR20 to replace the HR10 and now I'll be all set.
Thanks for all the tips and suggestions on this forum and in this thread. They were a great help.

[mdmantia]

just wanted to thank all of you here for the great postings on how to get upgraded and not empty my bank account..... i got lucky and got all set up after my first call..im a 9 year customer with total choice/hbo/starz/no sports.and no contract currently.1 sd tivo and an old sony 2nd line....i called regular customer service..i was real nice and didnt threaten to leave .told them i wanted to upgrade my equipment but getting other offers but wanting to stay if they could match the other companies...so they transfer me to retention..i start out by telling her everything that i wanted.{or hoped i can get}...2 free hr20s ..1 year free hd and dvr service..free install,dish and multiswitch..and heres what i got...

first she offers me the sunday ticket for 69.99 per month that also comes with both free premier and dvr service for 4 months...{so it isnt for new customers only}
then i get 1 free hr20 for 19.95 shipping...she wouldnt give a 2nd though..il call back in 6 months or longer for that one...

i tried to get 1 free year hd but she gave me 6 months...
then she says how about the superfan too..ok
then she says ill give you the nascar pass also..ok{probably wont watch this too much}
also got the free install,free slimline dish and zinwell multiswitch...

i did have to sign a 2 year commitment ..
that sunday ticket deal is a great offer if you can get it.....she says after 4 months i can go back to any sub over total choice plus...she did mention at the beginning about me being a long term customer so im sure that helped a bit....

then she sets the install up for the next day....so im all set up now..make sure your home when the installer is there and help him out and watch how hes doing everything and if you dont agree with what hes telling you then ask for him to call his supervisor......i helped my guy for 6 1/2 hours and had several differences of opinoins to work out with him but in the end ive got the best signal strength ive ever had....i think its all about who you get connected to in retention...if you dont like what your being offered then try again later...personally i have better luck with the female agents....... ..good luck...

ok here's what i got:

i told csr at retention that im considering Dishnet or Charter Cable and I didnt want to pay $300 to replace my soon to be obsolete TivoHd DVR and that Charter & Dishnet were offering 2 free HD-DVR's

After the first call to retention i was offered the D* HR20-700 for free (not incl shipping & tax); 6 mos free HBO & Showtime.

On the second call to retention, I was offered:

A 2nd new hr20-750 for $21.51 incl tax, ( i bought the first one 1+ years ago for $300), to replace a Tivo HD DVR that will be going obsolete. I complained the I thought I shouldn't have to pay for a new HD-DVR, since Dishnet is giving 2 for free, and Charter includes them for under $7/month

6 mos. free hd channels @ $9.99/mo

$10 credit on my bill for 12 mos

6 mos. free hbo, cinemax, showtime, starz/encore, and if i call back in 3 mos., i get starz/encore free for another 3 months

install by a tech on the new receiver on 10/6/07, even though i told the i didn't need an install, just the receiver sent to me

i've been with d* since 1997, but i'm only a 3 heart. Never been late on a payment, but I dont have automatic bill pay, and only have 3 receivers.

I had to commit for 2 years but I saved $300 just on the new receiver

[Milominderbinder2]

ok here's what i got:
A 2nd new hr20-750 for $21.51 incl tax...
6 mos. free hd channels @ $9.99/mo
$10 credit on my bill for 12 mos
6 mos. free hbo, cinemax, showtime, starz/encore, and if i call back in 3 mos., i get starz/encore free for another 3 months
...
Congratulations!

If the new satellite would have gone live on the 19th, I don't think you could have gotten so much.

As of this morning the steps are still working: Getting a Good Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938)

If there is anyone left on the fence, do it soon...

- Craig

[glennb]

It's been $299 for a leased HR20 about a year now.

If you don't want it to be a leased unit you can pay $900 for it and pay another $900 if it breaks and you have to get another one.

I've never seen a contact that says DIRECTV will replace leased units for $20, but I've read here that if the $299 leased unit fails most people call DIRECTV and arrange to get another sent out to them for $19.99 if they agree to a 2-year commitment.

You OWN that HR10-250. It won't be much use once the new HD channels get turned on.

I don't mind having a leased unit I can turn in when the next best thing comes along from DIRECTV.

[ExCavTanker]

Congratulations!

If the new satellite would have gone live on the 19th, I don't think you could have gotten so much.

As of this morning the steps are still working: Getting a Good Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938)

If there is anyone left on the fence, do it soon...

- Craig

Do you have any idea how important is the 'heart' rating in the overall factor of what the customer is given in terms of credits?

As I mentioned in my earlier post, even though I was told I was 5 hearts, I still was initially offered $99 for my second HR20. I believe only because I continued to follow your steps was I successful. Even though I did not need to ask all of the questions I believe the key was following the script and not getting off target.

[civengine]

I ordered the HDTV upgrade this afternoon. I asked for 3 receivers. The guy said he gave me 3 HD-DVRs. I interrupted his little speech to question this, and he confirmed that he gave me 3 DVRs for $99 each...

Here is what DirecTV says for billing:

Swap ReplaceImplied DVR IRD $0.00 1 $0.00

Handling $19.95 1 $19.95

DIRECTV HD Rec. (Expanded HD Prog. Capable) $0.00 1 $0.00

DIRECTV HD Rec. (Expanded HD Prog. Capable) $0.00 1 $0.00

DIRECTV 5-LNB Multi-Satellite Dish $0.00 1 $0.00

Standard Professional Install $0.00 1 $0.00
Subtotal: $217.95

There's another order as well. So am I getting HD-DVR's instead of receivers? Or just DVR's?

If so, I need to drill some more holes in my walls. I really don't think I want the installer doing it.

[davring]

Looks like two std receivers and one DVR. I would confirm before you start drilling.

[davring]

And :welcome_s

[civengine]

And :welcome_s
Thanks, here's my other order:

DIRECTV HD Rec. (Expanded HD Prog. Capable)
$0.00 1 $0.00

Handling
$19.95 1 $19.95

Swap ReplaceImplied DVR IRD
$0.00 1 $0.00

Standard Professional Install
$0.00 1 $0.00

DIRECTV 5-LNB Multi-Satellite Dish
$0.00 1 $0.00
Subtotal: $118.95

So, I guess I got 2 DVR's and 1 regular receiver. Well, I have enough holes for that, it's just that third DVR that would give me fits.:)

And they're supposed to take the second S/H charge off too.

[davring]

Looks like you got a good deal, enjoy.

[Milominderbinder2]

Do you have any idea how important is the 'heart' rating in the overall factor of what the customer is given in terms of credits?

As I mentioned in my earlier post, even though I was told I was 5 hearts, I still was initially offered $99 for my second HR20. I believe only because I continued to follow your steps was I successful. Even though I did not need to ask all of the questions I believe the key was following the script and not getting off target.
Those three questions, hearts, months, and buyout, tell the rep that you understand the system like only an insider would. Often at the first question, they just automatically escallate you to retention.

It says that you know the system. So often they are just blown away when you even know to ask about the hearts.

Sometimes when you are negotiating, the question is more important than the answer.

Each step in the Getting a Good Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938) is honed from the previous 2800 posts in this thread.

- Craig

[BudShark]

It says that you know the system. So often they are just blown away when you even know to ask about the hearts.

Sometimes when you are negotiating, the question is more important than the answer.

- Craig

Craig is 100% correct. I went from basically an average deal to immediately having what I consider to be one of the best deals available to me just by mentioning the hearts (and I was very hesitant to do it!) And I only have 3 hearts - like Craig said, its about being polite and asking the questions. You may not get the best deal out there, but by asking the questions I am confident you will get the best deal available to you.

Chris

[Milominderbinder2]

CIVENGINE,

Lots of people are getting free or very good deals on the HR20's. The strange part about your story is that you did not have to ask. I am betting you are rated 5 Hearts.

You are down to the last few steps in the link Getting a Good Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938):

8. Before you hang up, confirm that your work order is for:
DIRECTV HD DVR (Expanded HD Prog. Capable)
Standard Professional Install that will include:
- New RG6 cabling and connectors (up to 125' x 4 as needed)
- Zinwell 6x8 Multiswitch (if needed)
DIRECTV 5-LNB Multi-Satellite Dish (if dish upgrade needed)
Your date and price
9. Click here to verify your order. (https://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/mydirectv/account/myAccountViewOrders.jsp) Or call Customer Installation Support (CIS) at 1-888-355-7530.
10. Click here to see if you can move up your installation date. (https://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/mydirectv/account/myAccountViewOrders.jsp?type=reschedule) You may need to check several times to get a great delivery date.
11. Click here to verify your changes to your bill. (https://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/mydirectv/account/myAccountViewActivity.jsp)
12. Follow the HR20 Installation and Initial Setup Tips (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=67769).

Click that link in step 9 to make sure you have the right wording for the HR20.

Check out the What the Deals are, and what are you being told by CSR? (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=1144637#post1144637) to see other success stories.

Last fall delivery times got so bad that they could only put people on a waiting list.

How slammed do you think they will be once the new HD channels come out?

We will not know until the day comes but I think they will have to take the price back up to $299.

As of today, people were still getting the deal. You should be able to keep your old TiVo's for SD and have the HR20 as added tuners for HD and SD.

- Craig

[bdwill]

I called DirecTV a little while ago to get in on the HR20 fun and had partial luck. The first rep I spoke with said $299 and that was final.

I called back a few minutes later and got a young guy who was very easygoing. After some discussion about the Steelers (his favorite team), he said that he could drop it to $199. He also said that with the price drop, it would renew my 2 year contract (which isn't a big deal to me). I subscribe to Choice and HD, do not have ST, and I've only been with DirecTV for a year so I guess those are limiting factors in my bargaining tools.

Still, I'm not quite ready to pay that. I told him maybe when he can get it for $99.

[BudShark]

I called DirecTV a little while ago to get in on the HR20 fun and had partial luck. The first rep I spoke with said $299 and that was final.

I called back a few minutes later and got a young guy who was very easygoing. After some discussion about the Steelers (his favorite team), he said that he could drop it to $199. He also said that with the price drop, it would renew my 2 year contract (which isn't a big deal to me). I subscribe to Choice and HD, do not have ST, and I've only been with DirecTV for a year so I guess those are limiting factors in my bargaining tools.

Still, I'm not quite ready to pay that. I told him maybe when he can get it for $99.

Not that you deserve help because of your Avatar - but -

Call back with the script. Tell them what competitors are offerring. Then ask them how many hearts you are, what your commitment is, and what your termination fee is. I guarantee you the $99 will seem expensive when you are done. Do it now - no need to wait!

Go GATORS!

[kslates]

I just got the HR20 with installation (even though I don't need it) for the $19.95 shipping & handling. Plus 6 months free HD service and 3 months of HBO, Cinemax & Starz for free . Installation is next Monday 10/1

[Sirshagg]

I just got the HR20 with installation (even though I don't need it) for the $19.95 shipping & handling. Plus 6 months free HD service and 3 months of HBO, Cinemax & Starz for free . Installation is next Monday 10/1
:welcome_s and congrats!

[kslates]

Wish I would have had the HBO yesterday for Curb Your Enthusiasm but oh well.

I didn't even ask for the 6 months of free HD or 3 months of movie channels, she just offered them.

[pinegein]

I called today and used about 6 of the Getting a Good Deal on an HR20.
I have 4 hearts here what i was able to get 3 months of free Hbo, Stars and Showtime. I did not have Cinemax in my plan so for ordering it I got 2 months free of it my HR20 for 21.15 and 6 months of free HD programing I still have one tree to get cut down so I got the latest date that i could get for install Thanks Milominderbinder2 for writing the tips :D

[bdwill]

Not that you deserve help because of your Avatar - but -

Call back with the script. Tell them what competitors are offerring. Then ask them how many hearts you are, what your commitment is, and what your termination fee is. I guarantee you the $99 will seem expensive when you are done. Do it now - no need to wait!

Go GATORS!

You are a friend until October 6 :lol:

I just got off the phone with DirecTV again and WOW! I asked everything you mentioned and... HD DVR for $19.95 plus $1.75 tax. Install date is that fateful day...October 6 between 5 and 8pm. Kind of a bad time to select it (late in the day and during the LSU game). I think I'm going to reschedule for a morning spot.

Thanks again..this is a great thread!

[keeferb]

I was interested in getting a 2nd HR20 and thought I'd give it try before the new HD channels turn on. I got my first one back in March, and got that one free after my 3rd call to retention(first 2 reps wouldn't budge off the $299).

Today it only took one call(to retention again) and about 5 minutes. I told her I was looking to upgrade my R15 to another HR20 and was wondering if they could give me a deal similar to the one I got 6 months ago. She asked what the deal was and I told her it was free. She laughed and I knew the deal was done. I did have to pay the $19.95 shipping charge this time around, but was more than happy to do that. I didn't ask for any other credits this time...back in March they gave me a $5 monthly credit for 12 months and free HD access for 12 months so I'm still reaping those rewards.

I have been a D* customer for about 10 years. Total Choice w/ DVR and NFL ST for most of that time.

[kslates]

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention this was for my 2nd HR20, for the bedroom.

Been a directv customer since 2003 w/ DVR, HD, Sunday Ticket & Super Fan, and auto bill pay

[Milominderbinder2]

I called today and used about 6 of the Getting a Good Deal on an HR20.
I have 4 hearts here what i was able to get 3 months of free Hbo, Stars and Showtime. I did not have Cinemax in my plan so for ordering it I got 2 months free of it my HR20 for 21.15 and 6 months of free HD programing I still have one tree to get cut down so I got the latest date that i could get for install Thanks Milominderbinder2 for writing the tips :D
You are welcome!

I think you'all are setting a one day record for getting the $19 deals!

You are down to the last few steps in the link Getting a Good Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938):

Do not skip steps 9-12! Step 12 is as important as any other.

Again, I think if the new channels were launched last week the price would be $199 or $299. You guys are so lucky that the new HD is not out yet!

- Craig

[NinerK]

Called twice yesterday, once the day before.

DirecTivo here; I called on 9/21 after the DVR4U2 code seemed to "freeze" the site. I called and they honored the promo code and scheduled the appointment for install.

Then, after reading a couple of excellent threads here I decided I wanted an HR-20.

Now, I have an SD TV but will be upgrading in the next 12 months. In the "10 reasons to use HR-20 with a SD TV" thread I was advised that it would work with our SD TV.

Soooooo, first time I called back to get the HR-20 they said "there are no deals for the HD DVR"....I said "really, I heard some people are getting it for $19.00 shipping"...to which he replied "I know nothing of that offer sir"....

So I said "Directv, you guys kill me" and hung up.

Then I called a few minutes later and got "retention" right away. I again mentioned that I want to change my current order for a SD DVR to a HD DVR and they said $299. I was then a little more aggressive explaining that I had 8 years as a DTV customer and 6 years as a Sunday Ticket subscriber and Dish Network would give me a HD DVR for free......

I was placed on hold and voila! They offered the $19.00 HD DVR! Woo Hoo!

The only caviat was when I told the Retention CSR that I have an SD TV he said that "it's up to the installer's discrescion (sp?) to install on an SD TV because if there are any issues it goes back to them"...

I said, I'll take the risk. Should I be worried?

[RMD_63]

I called once over the weekend and they offered me 12 months HD, HR20 and H20 for $ 199 plus $19.95 S&H. They wanted me to replace my current HD box that I am using for OTA HD and I wasn't interested.

Called again this evening and asked for retention. Talked to a great rep and explained that I simply wanted to add an HR20 to my current configuration. After some football discussion, he offered me 12 month HD (6 months at first then went ahead and gave me 12), HR20 and HBO/Starz for 3 months. The only cost to me is the $ 19.95 S&H. Install date is 10/2 in the AM.

Thanks for all the great advice. Looking forward to more HD...

[mantan]

I hadn't found this site before (wish I had), but D* was pretty good to deal with.

I was very close to switching to FIOS at the end of the upcoming football season. I called D* just to ask what I'd need to get HD with D*. (Note, I alreayd have phone/internet with Fios, so they were no installation costs With the three service bundle the programming was much less than D* with the only extra expense being the DVR and STB's.

They originally quoted me the $299 for 5-LNB/HR20 + $99 for an H20. When I mentioned that I didn't need to pay all this upfront with Fios, the guy asked (in a leading way) 'So are you saying you'd leave?' He then swtiched me to the Retention Department.

The lady there was great. I got the 5 LNB, HR20, another H20 (didn't need a 2nd DVR), a relocation of the third receivever, and free upgrade to the NFL Superfan for the season and a discount on the new HD programming. All I had to pay was the $19.95 shipping and make a two year commitment. The scheduled installation for 10 days out and the local shop tried to call me two days later to do it that day (I was out of town, so I couldn't get it done.) :(

I'd been a D* customer since 2000, but I think the bigger factor is that they have lost quite a few customers to FIOS. The bandwith is incredible and the multi-room HD-DVR was VERY appealing. But bottom line I'm glad I stayed. I've always been happy with D* and it would have been hard to leave NFL Sunday Ticket.....

[mspalacios]

I've been playing the CSR Retentions game for 1 day (about 4 calls) as I want to replace my HR10-250 HD Tivo and a Samsung SIR4120 SD Tivo.

The best deal so far: replace 1 HD receiver for $19.99 and the 2nd receiver for $199, but with a $100 credit in programing plus free movie channels for 6 months.

I have 4 stars, have been very courteous but no one can offer me the 2 HD DVRs for shipping and handling only.

is this doable?

[wbinford]

It took three calls, but I got HR-20 for $19.95 shipping plus HD for free for 12 months. Installation offered next Monday, but I had a scheduling conflict. He said any day after that was available. I took Tuesday morning. When I checked the website to reschedule, nothing was available before the middle of October.

Here are the details:

On the first call, I asked for retention immediately. The CSR seemed confused, went away, then transferred me to Retention. The Retention CSR asked why I wanted retention right away. I started into the script asking about hearts, etc. without really answering his question. He said the hearts information was "classified". He offered to break up the $299 into three payments and waive the last two plus waive shipping for a net of $99.97. I asked when my commitment was over (March of next year) and how much to buy out the contract. But, he would not budge off the $100 even when I pressed him on what DISH was offering. Said no thanks and called back after dinner.

On the second call, I talked to the CSR. She said that $299 was the best I could do. She did tell me that I had three hearts. I told her that DISH would give me the box for free and she came down to $200. I told her that she was not even in the ballpark with what DISH was offering and asked to speak to retention. She went away and came back saying that she could not transfer me to retention (that surprised me), but she offered the HR-20 for $150. I asked to speak to her supervisor. She went away and came back with $100. Again, I asked to speak to the supervisor. She said that I could speak to her manager, but he could not give me any better deal. After she transferred me, I asked the manager about my commitment and the buyout. He seemed irritated, but gave me the information. Even when I reiterated the DISH deal, he still would not budge. I thanked him and called back immediately.

On the third call, I asked the CSR for retention and was transferred without any issues. The Retention CSR who answered the phone was personable. He even mentioned that his sister lived in Austin when I gave him my phone number. However, when he brought up my account, he commented that it looked like I had called a couple of times tonight. I was worried, but I think it may have worked in my favor. I told him that I had talked to a couple of CSRs, one of which refused to transfer me to retention, and that the best deal that they offered was an HR-20 for $100. I was hoping that retention could do better. I asked him about the hearts. He said that he could not give me that information, but that I was in no way a "bad" account.

He put me on hold for five to ten minutes. When he came back, he said that he did not understand what the issue was. While I had only been a customer for about a year, he could give me the HR-20 for the $19.95 shipping. While telling me this, he interrupted himself to say that actually I had been a customer since 2002 (which is true). Apparently, the information on his screen only went back a year. So, I think he decided to give me the deal without knowing that I was actually a 5+ year customer.

He said that I would have to pay the DVR fee because my lifetime DVR fee only applied to Tivo DVRs. I explained to him that I had researched this issue because I was worried about losing it and that section 7 of the customer agreement (again, information from this forum) explicitly stated that it applied to the account, not the box. He confirmed it and apologized for the confusion. He said that he had never dealt with a lifetime DVR account before.

Finally, I asked him about programming credits. He immediately offered 12 months of HD for free. I didn't ask for any more credits. I did ask about a second HD-DVR, but he said that I would have to pay the full $299. I told him I would hold off on that for now.

All in all, it was a pleasant experience thanks to this board. I think the multiple calls helped in two ways. First, while I was nervous on the first two calls, I felt much more relaxed by the time I called the third time. At first, I thought the fact that he had the information that I had called two times before meant I was dead in the water. Now, I am thinking that the persistence was actually taken as a positive. Who really knows. It might have just been CSR roulette.

Thanks for all your help.

[Juppers]

When I got my first HR20 for 19.95, the retention guy did slip that the best offer for 2 of them is $99 each, but singles you can get free. Just wait a week and call back for the second one. Worked for me. Now I'm wondering if I can get a H20 out of them after just getting 2 HR20s this month. I will find out sometime this week when I get a chance to call them.

[hakras]

I have made a few calls and haven't been successful. I followed the script and got shot down.

Here was my best attempt:

I was told that I'm a new customer (2 months) and don't have any "hearts" yet. It started sounding better when the rep said he could do $199 and then 6 months of HD credit. Then he told me that I could split the payments across 3 billing cycles. I was just about to go for it and then he said that because I'm a new customer I would be charged an extra $50 to swap new equipment. Has anyone ever heard of this?

[civengine]

:mad:
My order that I posted was that they gave me 2 HD-DVR's and 1 regular HD receiver without asking for it.

The installer is showing up with 3 regular HD receivers. i called the install help line and the person was adamant that I was just to get 3 regular receivers. PLUS, they will be making two trips to my house to install because I have 2 different tech's with my orders. How the heck is that any way to run a company??? The charges must be 50% more than if they had 1 tech come by to install.

Should I call a CSR back to discuss my order that the CSR messed up, or just call back install helpline?

[kslates]

Here is my order info:

Standard Professional Install
$0.00 1 $0.00
Swap ReplaceImplied DVR IRD
$0.00 1 $0.00
Handling
$19.95 1 $19.95
DIRECTV 5-LNB Multi-Satellite Dish
$0.00 1 $0.00
DIRECTV HD DVR (Expanded HD Prog. Capable)
$0.00 1 $0.00

[Rakul]

Just got my 2nd Hr20 installed this morning, installer was great, even ran a phone line for me while he was under the house. Feel bad for him though said he was up from Atlanda for a few weeks with a bunch of other guys so he wasn't used to all the driving between jobs. Had to run two sets of lines for me and install a multi-switch

All in all was here less than an hour.

[Milominderbinder2]

:mad:
My order that I posted was that they gave me 2 HD-DVR's and 1 regular HD receiver without asking for it.

The installer is showing up with 3 regular HD receivers. i called the install help line and the person was adamant that I was just to get 3 regular receivers. PLUS, they will be making two trips to my house to install because I have 2 different tech's with my orders. How the heck is that any way to run a company??? The charges must be 50% more than if they had 1 tech come by to install.

Should I call a CSR back to discuss my order that the CSR messed up, or just call back install helpline?
I had posted this reply specifically to you when you first told us of your deal:
CIVENGINE,

Lots of people are getting free or very good deals on the HR20's. The strange part about your story is that you did not have to ask. I am betting you are rated 5 Hearts.

You are down to the last few steps in the link Getting a Good Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938):

8. Before you hang up, confirm that your work order is for:
DIRECTV HD DVR (Expanded HD Prog. Capable)
Standard Professional Install that will include:
- New RG6 cabling and connectors (up to 125' x 4 as needed)
- Zinwell 6x8 Multiswitch (if needed)
DIRECTV 5-LNB Multi-Satellite Dish (if dish upgrade needed)
Your date and price
9. Click here to verify your order. (https://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/mydirectv/account/myAccountViewOrders.jsp) Or call Customer Installation Support (CIS) at 1-888-355-7530.
10. Click here to see if you can move up your installation date. (https://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/mydirectv/account/myAccountViewOrders.jsp?type=reschedule) You may need to check several times to get a great delivery date.
11. Click here to verify your changes to your bill. (https://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/mydirectv/account/myAccountViewActivity.jsp)
12. Follow the HR20 Installation and Initial Setup Tips (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=67769).

Click that link in step 9 to make sure you have the right wording for the HR20.
...
- Craig
I posted this follow-up as well...
...You are down to the last few steps in the link Getting a Good Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938):

Do not skip steps 9-12! Step 12 is as important as any other.

Again, I think if the new channels were launched last week the price would be $199 or $299. You guys are so lucky that the new HD is not out yet!

- Craig
Step 9 is important...

At this point you are back up to step 1. Give them a call.

Each step was honed from the experiences of 3,000 posts in this thread and thousands of other posts in other threads.

Each step is stated the way it is for a reason. They can work for you. :)

- Craig

[goondog71]

I just talked to retention and tried to get the $19 deal for the HR20, no luck. They best they could do was $99 plus 1 year free HD. The lady that I was talking to was very nice but said they have discontinued the $19 deal due to the high demand. I wonder if this is true, has anyone else heard this. I was told that I have 4 hearts and that they had to stop the $19 deal because too many people with less hearts were getting the deal. Not a big deal just wondering if anyone else has heard this.

[rutgersfan]

I just talked to retention and tried to get the $19 deal for the HR20, no luck. They best they could do was $99 plus 1 year free HD. The lady that I was talking to was very nice but said they have discontinued the $19 deal due to the high demand. I wonder if this is true, has anyone else heard this. I was told that I have 4 hearts and that they had to stop the $19 deal because too many people with less hearts were getting the deal. Not a big deal just wondering if anyone else has heard this.

well i tried today, and the best I could get was $199. I have been a customer for 8 or so years, in great standing. last year i was supposedly on the A list and got $20 in credits for 12 months. so maybe it is true

BUT, i got an HR20 last year for $99, and kept the HR10, maybe I just can't swing a deal for it anymore because of this? although i read here that i was ok so long it was longer than 6 months since getting the first HR20????

[rayzor1211]

Here is my order info:

Standard Professional Install
$0.00 1 $0.00
Swap ReplaceImplied DVR IRD
$0.00 1 $0.00
Handling
$19.95 1 $19.95
DIRECTV 5-LNB Multi-Satellite Dish
$0.00 1 $0.00
DIRECTV HD DVR (Expanded HD Prog. Capable)
$0.00 1 $0.00


I just called and my order is similar except Handling = $0.00
(I guess I have a lot of hearts ?????)

The number I called was not their normal CSR phone line, but a number left on my voicemail for "existing HD customers with old equipment" telling me that I have to upgrade for the new HD channels.

My only concern is the CSR stated I had to swap out the old HR10, but I own it. She stated it would be $299 if I don't swap it out. Reading other threads I found out that they won't really take it. If they do, the old HDD that crashed will be reinstalled in it.

Good Day.

[Lee L]

I just talked to retention and tried to get the $19 deal for the HR20, no luck. They best they could do was $99 plus 1 year free HD. The lady that I was talking to was very nice but said they have discontinued the $19 deal due to the high demand. I wonder if this is true, has anyone else heard this. I was told that I have 4 hearts and that they had to stop the $19 deal because too many people with less hearts were getting the deal. Not a big deal just wondering if anyone else has heard this.


The guy I talked to last week did mention something about lots of people calling up about this and even mentioned Fatwallet. (I read there is a thread over ther eabout it and those people can be fanatical in trying to get deals). Now, they all may be posturing trying to get you to give up and accept something better for them, but who knows.

[Tonedeaf]

Called just now to see about getting 1 more HR20, have 2 already with an HR10 on my 3rd TV, and did not get very far $199. Did get 12 months free HD service. :D

[mistersparkle]

Called around noon today (EDT). I am a simple DirecTiVo customer with the old "Total Choice Plus" package. Been with DirecTV for about 8 years with account always in good standing (direct-billed to credit card). No premium channels, no premium sports packages and maybe 3 PPVs in the 8 years I've been with the service.

The CSR I spoke with wasn't all too hip, but after I summarized what she had told me by saying, "Okay, I can pay you $299 to give up my TiVo for your DVR, or I can buy a new HD TiVo for $299 and get cable or fiber, or I can give up my TiVo and get the cable or fiber company's DVR for free", she transferred me to Retention.

I spoke with a nice lady and explained the same thing I'd said to the CSR. She told me to please hold while she looked up my account and explained that this could take a while. Well, it took a while, but when she came back on the line she told me I qualified for a free HR-20, 5-LNB dish, and installation. No shipping charge, either.

I figured I'd leave it go at that and not press for any free programming. I'm happy with the free hardware (but still nervous about giving up my TiVo)

[Milominderbinder2]

I have made a few calls and haven't been successful. I followed the script and got shot down.

Here was my best attempt:

I was told that I'm a new customer (2 months) and don't have any "hearts" yet. It started sounding better when the rep said he could do $199 and then 6 months of HD credit. Then he told me that I could split the payments across 3 billing cycles. I was just about to go for it and then he said that because I'm a new customer I would be charged an extra $50 to swap new equipment. Has anyone ever heard of this?
If that is the best you can do, take it. I think this may be the last night you will be able to get any deal.

Try calling again. See if they will do 12 months of HD or HBS or anything else.

I think that they will already be starting to pull the plug. Tomorrow may be a flat $299. We'll see.

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

I just talked to retention and tried to get the $19 deal for the HR20, no luck. They best they could do was $99 plus 1 year free HD. The lady that I was talking to was very nice but said they have discontinued the $19 deal due to the high demand. I wonder if this is true, has anyone else heard this. I was told that I have 4 hearts and that they had to stop the $19 deal because too many people with less hearts were getting the deal. Not a big deal just wondering if anyone else has heard this.
Take it. Unless they change something, it looks like it will be $299 again.

I bet before all is said and done, they begin wait listing people for the HR20 again like last fall. Some will be wishing they could pay $299 and just get one.

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

well i tried today, and the best I could get was $199. I have been a customer for 8 or so years, in great standing. last year i was supposedly on the A list and got $20 in credits for 12 months. so maybe it is trueBUT, i got an HR20 last year for $99, and kept the HR10, maybe I just can't swing a deal for it anymore because of this? although i read here that i was ok so long it was longer than 6 months since getting the first HR20????Whatever you are going to do, do it tonight.See if you can get programming credits, HD, HBO, etc. if they will not give cash discounts.- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

I just called and my order is similar except Handling = $0.00
(I guess I have a lot of hearts ?????)

The number I called was not their normal CSR phone line, but a number left on my voicemail for "existing HD customers with old equipment" telling me that I have to upgrade for the new HD channels.

My only concern is the CSR stated I had to swap out the old HR10, but I own it. She stated it would be $299 if I don't swap it out. Reading other threads I found out that they won't really take it. If they do, the old HDD that crashed will be reinstalled in it.

Good Day.
Call them back tonight. You should be able to keep your HR10...unless they are at the point of wanting the legacy receivers out of the field so they can prepare for pulling the plug on the old HD channels.

Anyone else hearing this?

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

Called just now to see about getting 1 more HR20, have 2 already with an HR10 on my 3rd TV, and did not get very far $199. Did get 12 months free HD service. :D
That is practically free!!!

Maybe see if you can get free DVR service or HBO or showtime or Starz.

Regardless take whatever their best offer is tonight.

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

To anyone who has still not done this, take a shot at the steps tonight:

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

Do exactly what each step says.

There are a number of threads that say the new HD channels start tomorrow. Then prices may go back up to $299 until they run out again like last fall and you can only go on the wait list.

For those of you who already placed your orders, do not skip the final steps!

8. Before you hang up, confirm that your work order is for:
DIRECTV HD DVR (Expanded HD Prog. Capable)
Standard Professional Install that will include:
- New RG6 cabling and connectors (up to 125' x 4 as needed)
- Zinwell 6x8 Multiswitch (if needed)
DIRECTV 5-LNB Multi-Satellite Dish (if dish upgrade needed)
Your date and price
9. Click here to verify your order. (https://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/mydirectv/account/myAccountViewOrders.jsp) Or call Customer Installation Support (CIS) at 1-888-355-7530.
10. Click here to see if you can move up your installation date. (https://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/mydirectv/account/myAccountViewOrders.jsp?type=reschedule) You may need to check several times to get a great delivery date.
11. Click here to verify your changes to your bill. (https://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/mydirectv/account/myAccountViewActivity.jsp)
12. Follow the HR20 Installation and Initial Setup Tips (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=67769).

Good hunting!

- Craig

[finfan]

Ok here is my story.

1st call was told $99 for one HR20, each additional would be $199.

2nd call was told same thing

3rd call was told
1 HR20 5 LNB dish and multiswitch 19.99,
2nd HR20 free,
they then told me that they would like to replace my 2 additonal HD receivers with H20's no charge. I also got them to give me

1 year of HD programing and
$10 credit a month for 12 months.

Now the scary part, the women was giving me the order number so I reached for a pen and pulled the phone cord out of the wall.

To say I was sick to my stomach is an understatement, I waited a few minutes hoping that she would call me back, but no luck. I called back expecting to have to start all over. Luckily I got a cool guy, he told me that my order had been cancelled, as tears started to appear in my eyes, he told me he would reinstate the order because he could see that she had already created the order once.

However this was back in August and I have had nothing but problems getting the installation done, for some odd reason the installers cancelled my first installation, and then the order was also cancelled.

I called in had the order reinstated, and they scheduled the installation for Sept 15th, I called the installers twice to let them know how my house is wired(I currently have 11 receivers and 5 of them are DVR's) so that they would bring the correct multiswitch to go with the new dish, installer gets here(2 hours late) and sort of complains how long of a job it was and that it was his 6th install of the day. So he tells me that he doesn't have the correct equipment and would have to go back to and order it, he promises me he would call within 2 days to reschedule.

A week now passes and I hear nothing so I call, and once again am told that my order has been cancelled, I get the order reinstated again and now they tell me they can't come until Oct 20th.

I guess I am earning the great deal that I got, but hell it's been pretty frustrating dealing with these installers.

Well that is my story and I am sticking to it. :)

[40yearfan]

Called around noon today (EDT). I am a simple DirecTiVo customer with the old "Total Choice Plus" package. Been with DirecTV for about 8 years with account always in good standing (direct-billed to credit card). No premium channels, no premium sports packages and maybe 3 PPVs in the 8 years I've been with the service.

The CSR I spoke with wasn't all too hip, but after I summarized what she had told me by saying, "Okay, I can pay you $299 to give up my TiVo for your DVR, or I can buy a new HD TiVo for $299 and get cable or fiber, or I can give up my TiVo and get the cable or fiber company's DVR for free", she transferred me to Retention.

I spoke with a nice lady and explained the same thing I'd said to the CSR. She told me to please hold while she looked up my account and explained that this could take a while. Well, it took a while, but when she came back on the line she told me I qualified for a free HR-20, 5-LNB dish, and installation. No shipping charge, either.

I figured I'd leave it go at that and not press for any free programming. I'm happy with the free hardware (but still nervous about giving up my TiVo)

You won't be sorry. I replaced my HR10-250 with the HR20-100 and wouldn't go back to the Tivo unit now if you paid me. A lot more features and quicker.

[40yearfan]

Had an HR20 installed in the Family Room last month and my wife liked it so well, she wanted one in our bedroom. Called and was told $299, asked to talk to retention and was told no. She refused to pass me through even after I asked her how many hearts I had (4).

Changed tactics and emailed DTV asking why a loyal customer like myself would have to pay full bore when a newbie could get it for pratically nothing. Got an email in response saying someone would call.

They called today and offered $199 with $120 rebate over 6 months ($20 month). I accepted and they will be installing the new unit day after tomorrow (Thursday). Total cost with tax and shipping will be about $120.00 after the rebate.

I probably could have balked at the offer and asked for more, but I feel it's a fair price considering they have to add an additional cable to the bedroom to make this unit work.

BTW, I checked my order as suggested and they are also showing installing a 5 LNB antenna. I already have one with the Zinwell WB68 switch. The installer will probably be happy that he only has to run an additional cable to the bedroom and set up the HR20.

[rotomike]

just got off the phone and got a slimline with hd-dvr installed for $199 and $20 off a month for 12 months so im making $40 on this one. Awsome!

Mike

[Tonedeaf]

That is practically free!!!

Maybe see if you can get free DVR service or HBO or showtime or Starz.

Regardless take whatever their best offer is tonight.

- Craig

Going to let the HD channel craziness calm down a bit and try again for a free one in a few months. I have 2 HR20's already that I got 1 Free and the other for $99 and 5LNB install. Also got 3 months of showtime and a $5 service credit for a year previously and then the HD for a year I got today.

[aleicgrant]

Not sure if this is a decent deal for new customer but here goes.

First HD DVR $199
$100 credit (over 10 months)
Additional $60 credit (over 6 months)
Second HD DVR FREE
2 HD20's For $99
$50 visa gift card (normal promo)
free install
5lnb

is that good?

[aleicgrant]

Do you think a call to retention to cancel before install might yield some even better results?

Personally the only other thing I would like to get thrown in is the superfan

[Milominderbinder2]

Not sure if this is a decent deal for new customer but here goes.

First HD DVR $199
$100 credit (over 10 months)
Additional $60 credit (over 6 months)
Second HD DVR FREE
2 HD20's For $99
$50 visa gift card (normal promo)
free install
5lnb

is that good?
Yes. Don't change a thing.

- Craig

[He Save Dave]

Anyone have any tips for a first time DTV customer? I haven't ordered yet but I'm getting ready to. I'm not sure what to expect in the way of deals or upfront cost for a full HDDVR package. What is the 5lnb and do I need to ask for it? Are there any set deals out there right now that I wouldn't have to barter for? Whats the best way to go about getting a good deal?

Thanks in advance!

-Dave

[Button Pusher]

Anyone have any tips for a first time DTV customer? I haven't ordered yet but I'm getting ready to. I'm not sure what to expect in the way of deals or upfront cost for a full HDDVR package. What is the 5lnb and do I need to ask for it? Are there any set deals out there right now that I wouldn't have to barter for? Whats the best way to go about getting a good deal?

Thanks in advance!

-Dave


Follow these steps.
http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938

[He Save Dave]

Thanks for the link, BP. What is the 5 LNB thing? Is there more than 1 version of the HR20?

[Milominderbinder2]

Going to let the HD channel craziness calm down a bit and try again for a free one in a few months. I have 2 HR20's already that I got 1 Free and the other for $99 and 5LNB install. Also got 3 months of showtime and a $5 service credit for a year previously and then the HD for a year I got today.
We will see a press release every couple of weeks announcing new HD channels building through the Christmas rush. Then the Superbowl rush in January.

Then the D10 satellite launches and the momentum continues to build as those new HD channel announcements start up again in February through the spring. Then a big focus becomes adding more HD locals. And then people finally realize in droves what DIRECTV meant when they said no 2008 NLF in the old MPEG2's.

If their marketing plan works they will be able to build on the market frenzy for a year.

Have you noticed how they have held off on HD commercials since August 1?

- Craig

[the_tango]

Well I don't seem to be getting much of a deal, just finished my second call.

$199 - HD-DVR

-$120 - Credit on service
-$120 - Credit for HD service

So that is $199 out of pocket with $240 credit. No free HBO, Showtine, Cinemax, Gift card, or anything.

I offered to take the deal if he would take $99 for the HD-DVR but got turned down. Guess I will try again tomorrow.

[Milominderbinder2]

Thanks for the link, BP. What is the 5 LNB thing? Is there more than 1 version of the HR20?
You are up to step 8 in the:

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

This is all explained. I added a little more verbiage there to make sure it was clear.

Call soon!

- Criag

[Milominderbinder2]

Well I don't seem to be getting much of a deal, just finished my second call.

$199 - HD-DVR

-$120 - Credit on service
-$120 - Credit for HD service

So that is $199 out of pocket with $240 credit. No free HBO, Showtine, Cinemax, Gift card, or anything.

I offered to take the deal if he would take $99 for the HD-DVR but got turned down. Guess I will try again tomorrow.
Call them right back and take it. Everything changed this morning at 6:00 AM EDT.

That is now the best deal at least until word of this start leaking out.

Call them back!

I will update the Get a Great Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938) to reflect that as of today this is the best deal anyone is getting.

- Craig

[the_tango]

I ask the guy if I could think about it and call back and take the deal he offered. He said that he added the deal to my history and any CRT would see the deal that was offered and I could take it.

Will be calling back later this afternoon (need to do some work at work).

[Milominderbinder2]

I ask the guy if I could think about it and call back and take the deal he offered. He said that he added the deal to my history and any CRT would see the deal that was offered and I could take it.

Will be calling back later this afternoon (need to do some work at work).
Don't wait that long. If the computer removes that offer level they may not be able to do it.

- Craig

[NinerK]

I was placed on hold and voila! They offered the $19.00 HD DVR! Woo Hoo!

The only caviat was when I told the Retention CSR that I have an SD TV he said that "it's up to the installer's discrescion (sp?) to install on an SD TV because if there are any issues it goes back to them"...
I said, I'll take the risk. Should I be worried?

So gang, what do you think? Should I be worried that the installer will "decline" the installation?

Has this happened to anybody? Any service techs here?

[serial lurker]

I just tried to get a deal - followed the script verbatim twice with CSR's and once in retention.THe first CSR told me that the HD channels wouldn't be available until December.

Best I could get was $299 for the DVR less $100 credit. They wouldn't even let me order a second one. I have 4 hearts; no contract.

I promise I was polite as could be - I promise. Anyway the girl in retention was actually yelling at me - when I pointed out that I didn't appreciate being yelled at = she apologized and then started crying. I felt awful.

[BudShark]

I promise I was polite as could be - I promise. Anyway the girl in retention was actually yelling at me - when I pointed out that I didn't appreciate being yelled at = she apologized and then started crying. I felt awful.

You made a CSR cry??? :nono2:

:D Stick to it. I'd call back, go through the process, and even ask them why you can't get a better deal. Is there something they can tell you that is preventing them from doing it - or possibly calling back in a month (after the rush of new HD is over).

Chris

[NinerK]

I just tried to get a deal - followed the script verbatim twice with CSR's and once in retention.THe first CSR told me that the HD channels wouldn't be available until December.

Best I could get was $299 for the DVR less $100 credit. They wouldn't even let me order a second one. I have 4 hearts; no contract.

I promise I was polite as could be - I promise. Anyway the girl in retention was actually yelling at me - when I pointed out that I didn't appreciate being yelled at = she apologized and then started crying. I felt awful.

Whoa, wonder why she was yelling. Was she yelling saying "there are no deals!"?

You know, I don't know how it works but one Retention guy told me there are no deals (on 9/22) and the same day I called back and I got the HR-20 for $19 shipping.

Also, the first guy said "there are no hearts/rating system"....:confused:

Makes me wonder if there is some sort of bonus or something that the CSR/Retention people don't "give up the deal"....

[BudShark]

Makes me wonder if there is some sort of bonus or something that the CSR/Retention people don't "give up the deal"....

I've always wondered that too. It seems it would be easier for the CSR to roll over and give the deal to whoever asked - but there is something that holds them back. Interesting...

[MikeR]

I've always wondered that too. It seems it would be easier for the CSR to roll over and give the deal to whoever asked - but there is something that holds them back. Interesting...

I bet the CSRs have a forum as well, with an anti-deal thread...:D
Stories go like this...
This guy really tried to come on to me to get a HR20 for $20....;)

[Mr. Furious]

So gang, what do you think? Should I be worried that the installer will "decline" the installation?

Has this happened to anybody?

Our installer (MasTec) didn't bat an eye when we wanted to put an HR20 on an SDTV.

[the_tango]

Don't wait that long. If the computer removes that offer level they may not be able to do it.

- Craig

I just called back

$200 for the HD-DVR

$120 credit for HD service
$120 credit for Service
6 months Free HBO & Showtime
and of course Free Dish & Install

Got an order # & CRS name. Install won't be for about a week.

Took the deal!

Oh, I forgot to mention that - I ask the CRS that my sister also wants to upgrade her service and if he could give her the same deal. He noted on my account my request and said to have her call in and have the CRS bring up my account and she should get the same package I got.

[NinerK]

Our installer (MasTec) didn't bat an eye when we wanted to put an HR20 on an SDTV.

Thanks Furious, hopefully my first suspiscions are true; they were saying that to get me to take the SD DVR.

This HD DVR combined with good deals on HD TV's this holiday season should result in a Super Bowl in HD.....Woo Hoo!

[cody21]

Just completed my order:

FREE upgrade to thr HR20 DVR
Upgrade of my SD Receiver to an H20 (I didn't want the DVR on it) for $107.17
6 MONTHS of the HD Pkg for free
Free install

They offered me the NFL pkg at a discounted price but I didn't want it.

[roqdawg]

I wish I had read the offers on here before I called!
First call I got a rep that would only offer to match the DISH programming offer and take $100 off of the HD DVR ($199 net).
Second call I was a bit better armed with facts though now I see maybe I could have done better on the programming credits... but on my second try I got:

Standard Professional Install
$0.00 1 $0.00
Swap New DVR IRD
$0.00 1 $0.00
Handling
$19.95 1 $19.95
DIRECTV 5-LNB Multi-Satellite Dish
$0.00 1 $0.00
DIRECTV HD DVR (Expanded HD Prog. Capable)
$0.00 1 $0.00

6 months free HD
3 months free HBO & Cinemax
2 yr commitment

Couple questions...
1. the bottom line on the install reflects a total of $234.28. I was told it would only cost me $19.95...so I'm guessing the difference will be credited after the install? Is that the way it is normally billed?

2. where the install says "Swap New DVR IRD"...the installer will not be looking to swap (as in "take") my old reciever, or just swap out as in take the old off line and put the new online. I own my current SD recievers and am ordering 1 HD DVR for an HDTV and will continue using 1 of the SD recievers on my second (SD) TV.

3. the rep seemed not sure if the installer would mount the new dish on my current pole the my old sony dish has been on for years. Would I be able to just have the installer "slap it on there" and take responsibility for it myself if it requires additional bracing etc.
Does the new dish fit on the same diameter pole as the old ones (I have an OLD dual LNB sony dish)? If not I could try to replace the pole before the installer comes.

I have already run 2 coax cables to each TV site, though I'm guessing the SD reciever will still remain using it's single coax.

Also...just an FYI.
I asked the rep about the longstanding "requirement" that the reciver be connected to a phone line since my brother recently got D* service and does not have a home phone....rep said that the phone connection is no longer a requirement.

Cheers,
Roqdawg

[newsposter]

hey is there any chance i can get DTV to put on the work order that 119 LOS is not required by me? Ironwood wouldnt install last time and i was lucky enough to get a self credit but those dont exist anymore.

i just dont want him coming out and seeing no 119 then leaving

[serial lurker]

You made a CSR cry??? :nono2:

:D Stick to it. I'd call back, go through the process, and even ask them why you can't get a better deal. Is there something they can tell you that is preventing them from doing it - or possibly calling back in a month (after the rush of new HD is over).

Chris

I think she made herself cry - I just had the self awareness to point out that she was yelling at me as I tried to talk about the lack of a "deal"

Isnt't there somesort of call log where D tv will know I am calling multiple times today OR what the deal is that they have offered me?

[NinerK]

I

Also...just an FYI.
I asked the rep about the longstanding "requirement" that the reciver be connected to a phone line since my brother recently got D* service and does not have a home phone....rep said that the phone connection is no longer a requirement.

Cheers,
Roqdawg

Yeah buddy, that is just one of the features that drew me in from my DirecTivo. With the Tivo I had to dial in once every week or so and had a few issues in the past 12 months with it not recognizing the dial in number and this and that.

Good stuff, waiting for my install on Saturday. Good luck with everything!

[mephisto]

2. where the install says "Swap New DVR IRD"...the installer will not be looking to swap (as in "take") my old reciever, or just swap out as in take the old off line and put the new online. I own my current SD recievers and am ordering 1 HD DVR for an HDTV and will continue using 1 of the SD recievers on my second (SD) TV.

SWAP just means take old DVR offline, place new DVR online and activate. Installer will not ask for your current DVR. You will keep it.

[Milominderbinder2]

I just tried to get a deal - followed the script verbatim twice with CSR's and once in retention.The first CSR told me that the HD channels wouldn't be available until December.

Best I could get was $299 for the DVR less $100 credit. They wouldn't even let me order a second one. I have 4 hearts; no contract.

I promise I was polite as could be - I promise. Anyway the girl in retention was actually yelling at me - when I pointed out that I didn't appreciate being yelled at = she apologized and then started crying. I felt awful.
Call back and take it. See if you can bump up the credits, add HBO, DVR service free, etc.

I bet that her crying had more to do with the stress. I bet that they are so slammed that they don't have time to go to the bathroom. Imagine what will happen once they finally make a press release let alone run the first ad that the new HD's are here.

I updated the Get a Great Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938) to reflect that as of today this is now a very good deal.

- Craig

[msmith]

I wish I had read the offers on here before I called!
First call I got a rep that would only offer to match the DISH programming offer and take $100 off of the HD DVR ($199 net).
Second call I was a bit better armed with facts though now I see maybe I could have done better on the programming credits... but on my second try I got:

Standard Professional Install
$0.00 1 $0.00
Swap New DVR IRD
$0.00 1 $0.00
Handling
$19.95 1 $19.95
DIRECTV 5-LNB Multi-Satellite Dish
$0.00 1 $0.00
DIRECTV HD DVR (Expanded HD Prog. Capable)
$0.00 1 $0.00

6 months free HD
3 months free HBO & Cinemax
2 yr commitment

Couple questions...
1. the bottom line on the install reflects a total of $234.28. I was told it would only cost me $19.95...so I'm guessing the difference will be credited after the install? Is that the way it is normally billed?

2. where the install says "Swap New DVR IRD"...the installer will not be looking to swap (as in "take") my old reciever, or just swap out as in take the old off line and put the new online. I own my current SD recievers and am ordering 1 HD DVR for an HDTV and will continue using 1 of the SD recievers on my second (SD) TV.

3. the rep seemed not sure if the installer would mount the new dish on my current pole the my old sony dish has been on for years. Would I be able to just have the installer "slap it on there" and take responsibility for it myself if it requires additional bracing etc.
Does the new dish fit on the same diameter pole as the old ones (I have an OLD dual LNB sony dish)? If not I could try to replace the pole before the installer comes.

I have already run 2 coax cables to each TV site, though I'm guessing the SD reciever will still remain using it's single coax.

Also...just an FYI.
I asked the rep about the longstanding "requirement" that the reciver be connected to a phone line since my brother recently got D* service and does not have a home phone....rep said that the phone connection is no longer a requirement.

Cheers,
Roqdawg

First, ignore the total price on the order. Just look at recent activity on your account - that's the real money that you owe.

Second, if DirecTV wants the receiver back, they will send you a shipping label. The installer should only take receivers that you are willing to give up as trash. Leased receivers will be requested back by DirecTV (and they are apparently taking back SOME leased HR10's).

Third, the new dish will not fit on any older pole. It has to be an entirely new foot and pole mount, plus they will add outrigger supports because these dishes are heavy and big. The installer should be willing to at least fill the old holes with silicone. For a roof install consider leaving the foot in place and just removing the pole as a good way to keep it sealed.

[roqdawg]

The new dish will not fit on any older pole. It has to be an entirely new foot and pole mount, plus they will add outrigger supports because these dishes are heavy and big. The installer should be willing to at least fill the old holes with silicone. For a roof install consider leaving the foot in place and just removing the pole as a good way to keep it sealed.

Do you happen to know the outside diameter of the required pole? I have always had a pole mount and would rather replace the pole in advance if necessary. I have no problem with them installing a brace to the side of the house to reinforce it. The current pole is about 20" or so away from the house. I would like to move it a couple more inches away so it will be easier to fit the lawn mower between the pole and the house...if I went closer to the house, than the rain would sheet off of the roof in between the dish and the LNBs (not a good idea), we have no gutters! In the current install, the rain falls off the roof behind the dish!

Thanks,
Roqdawg

[chris vesuvio]

Hi,
Long time TCF poster, 1st time DBS.
First I would like to THANK Earl B. for all of his wisdow. I have been reading his posts for quite some time on TCF. :)

I just ordered the HR20 last night. I went by the text on the "How to order" post.
I first was connected to the main CSR even when I said "cancel".
A very nice lady said she was not allowed to give any credits or "coupons". She then transferred me to Hillary who was very nice.
I explained I wanted to switch to the DVR for the HD programming coming online.
I also told her I did NOT want to "swap out" my TIVo 10-250 since I own it.
She said no problem. She explained the price was $350 but she would only charge me $99 and credit my account for the rest.
She then told me she would credit my account for 12 months for the HD package.
$10 per month. I also asked if I could receive Starz, that is free for 3 months.

Install and new 5 LNB free this Saturday.

I thought $99 was a pretty good deal. 2 year commitment-don't plan on leaving.
Thanks again Earl and everybody that is involved with DBS Talk!!:grin:
Chris V.

[msmith]

Do you happen to know the outside diameter of the required pole? I have always had a pole mount and would rather replace the pole in advance if necessary. I have no problem with them installing a brace to the side of the house to reinforce it. The current pole is about 20" or so away from the house. I would like to move it a couple more inches away so it will be easier to fit the lawn mower between the pole and the house...if I went closer to the house, than the rain would sheet off of the roof in between the dish and the LNBs (not a good idea), we have no gutters! In the current install, the rain falls off the roof behind the dish!

Thanks,
Roqdawg

Mine is up the side of the house at the moment. From my memory, it's at least 2" diameter - probably bigger.

[sgmonroe]

Finally got my deal last night. Talk about cutting it close... Ended up with the $99 deal (plus shipping) with 6 months free HD and an additional $10 off for 6 months.

I asked about them matching dish/time warner deals of free HD DVR upgrades and what not. They said I was an excellent customer (7+ years, 5 hearts, no missed payments) but since I don't subscribe to "extras", this was the best they could do. I guess I'll eventually come out ahead.

Thanks to everyone in the thread for the help! NOTE: Install isn't until Oct 13th. Eh...

[tonyoci]

I just got a good deal on a second HR20

Called, asked for "Cancel" Got a guy, asked him what the best deal is for a new HR20 (I already have one HR20)

$99 , free S&H + $10 per month off for 12 months

Installation will be on Thursday, and there were no arguments or threats.

They did not ask for my HR10 or anything else

[jfunk2800]

Just got my upgrade deal.

New HR20 and an upgrade to the new dish - FREE - no shipping costs or anything.

He said that the deal was incumbent on me renewing for additional 2 years. I hemmed and hawed and said I wasn't planning on renewing for another 2 years. I asked if he could throw any discount on my bill to make it an easier decision. He offered free HD for a year, and I told him he had a deal.

Bingo bango.

[f1 rulez]

Called D* today to see what kind of deal I could get on an hr20 and h20 for second room the csr would not budge on the hardware I followed all the steps and was very nice to him and brought up some of the competing offers still nothing. I even mentioned the $19 shipping offer he said that they never offered this. Is everyone having problems getting deals now that new hd has lit up?
Should I wait until all the hd buzz has died down and try again?

[tonyoci]

See the two posts above you F1 Rulez, both of us got deals

[roqdawg]

Called D* today to see what kind of deal I could get on an hr20 and h20 for second room the csr would not budge on the hardware I followed all the steps and was very nice to him and brought up some of the competing offers still nothing. I even mentioned the $19 shipping offer he said that they never offered this. Is everyone having problems getting deals now that new hd has lit up?
Should I wait until all the hd buzz has died down and try again?

Try again with (probably) a different CSR on the next call. I had much better results on my second call placed just minutes after the first one.

BTW...D* for some reason only uses your current phone number/address when checking how long you have been a customer....I dug up my original phone/address info for my second call and got a much better offer.

Roqdawg

[Milominderbinder2]

I just got a good deal on a second HR20

Called, asked for "Cancel" Got a guy, asked him what the best deal is for a new HR20 (I already have one HR20)

$99 , free S&H + $10 per month off for 12 months
Just got my upgrade deal.

New HR20 and an upgrade to the new dish - FREE - no shipping costs or anything.

I updated the Get a Great Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938) to reflect that some are still getting the $19 deal or even free. The wording is refined to show a better way to ask.

I would never have guessed it would be possible after the new HD channels launched.

When you call, expect to be on hold for a while. They have not even had a press release yet they are just getting hammered.

Some are reporting installation dates are shooting out in some areas but by following the steps you can often move the date up later.

Good job everyone!

- Craig

[Sirshagg]

I updated the Get a Great Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938) to reflect that some are still getting the $19 deal or even free.

I would never have guessed it would be possible after the new HD channels launched.

When you call, expect to be on hold for a while. They have not even had a press release yet they are just getting hammered.

Some are reporting installation dates are shooting out in some areas but by following the steps you can often move the date up later.

Good luck today!

- Craig

Also check your online activity carefully as they tend to tell you one price and charge your account for another. I recently finished cleaning up a mess from my last order and now have to do the same thing again for an order placed yesterday.

[serial lurker]

Best deal I could get today was $199 with 6 months free HD programming.

Since this is my 4th call in 2 days I surrendered and took the deal that was offered

[Greg Rosler]

Just got off the phone with Dtv.

They started with $299.00 plus $19.95 shipping (for the HR20).

I ended up getting the unit for just the shipping cost.

This includes the new dish, B-Band converter, install, etc.

I didn't manage to get any free service out of it but at least I'm not out $299.00. :)

Called retention and kept asking is this the best deal "REALLY HELPED".

Follow the instructions in the post http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938 by Milominderbinder2.

It made all the difference.



Thanks all,
Greg

[GreatPig]

I called today and was told that $299 + $19.95 was best deal for HR20/HR21 and new 5LNB dish, take it or leave it. I left it. I was very nice. The rep said I had 4 hearts and "all customers are important." I have been with D* since 1997 with SuperFan, MLB, NBA, etc.

I called back about 20 minutes later. I said I didn't want to leave D* but after paying a few hundred buck in Aug of 2006 for HD TiVO I wasn't ready to spend that again. I also mentioned the local cable company has free DVR equipment with no contract.

I got the $19.95 deal with only 1 year contract. The install next week.

I stressed that I wanted a pole mount, not on my roof or side of the house. Let's see if the installer is prepared. It should be easy, though, as he won't have any cable to run.

I only wanted a fair deal. I did not ask for free programming, only the ability to watch HD without paying for the new equipment.

[msmith]

By the way, I looked at the Slimline dish again last night (from the ground). The mast looks to be about 2".

Don't take my word for it - see if you can get somebody else to measure theirs.

[Sirshagg]

I called today and was told that $299 + $19.95 was best deal for HR20/HR21 and new 5LNB dish, take it or leave it. I left it. I was very nice. The rep said I had 4 hearts and "all customers are important." I have been with D* since 1997 with SuperFan, MLB, NBA, etc.

I called back about 20 minutes later. I said I didn't want to leave D* but after paying a few hundred buck in Aug of 2006 for HD TiVO I wasn't ready to spend that again. I also mentioned the local cable company has free DVR equipment with no contract.

I got the $19.95 deal with only 1 year contract. The install next week.

I stressed that I wanted a pole mount, not on my roof or side of the house. Let's see if the installer is prepared. It should be easy, though, as he won't have any cable to run.

I only wanted a fair deal. I did not ask for free programming, only the ability to watch HD without paying for the new equipment.

Congrats. I wouldn't count on the 1 year contract though.

[GreatPig]

Congrats. I wouldn't count on the 1 year contract though.

She assured me it would only be 1 year instead of the usual 2. But, as long as D* is the only source of NFL Sunday Ticket, I'm not going anywhere.

[serial lurker]

Best deal I could get today was $199 with 6 months free HD programming.

Since this is my 4th call in 2 days I surrendered and took the deal that was offered

Its like going to a used car dealership = I feel screwed. 4 calls; same deal every time:mad:

[Sirshagg]

Its like going to a used car dealership = I feel screwed. 4 calls; same deal every time:mad:

Keep trying - it took me more than 4 (6 I think) before I got a good deal. It may have gotten tougher since the new channels are active. The yalso seem to tout their lower charge for HD vs dish now, or at least they did with me yesterday.

[serial lurker]

Keep trying - it took me more than 4 (6 I think) before I got a good deal. It may have gotten tougher since the new channels are active. The yalso seem to tout their lower charge for HD vs dish now, or at least they did with me yesterday.

Right re the Dish - it was like she had a script - I mentioned the free VIP 221 reciever she talked cost vs DTV; number of channels etc.

OH well this guy ain't gonna be telling stories about the great deal he got on the HD tuner from DTV

[macmikey]

Just called and pressed 4 (hate those voice menus), got connected right away. Asked very nice rep if there were any deals involving HD-DVR to replace my leased unit, a H20-600. She went away, came back and said no, but because I am a current customer with an excellent record, she would give it to me for free. Install is this Sunday morning. Cost would have been 99.95 plus shipping. She is crediting cost and shipping so I pay nothing.

[GreatPig]

I called today and was told that $299 + $19.95 was best deal for HR20/HR21 and new 5LNB dish, take it or leave it. I left it. I was very nice. The rep said I had 4 hearts and "all customers are important." I have been with D* since 1997 with SuperFan, MLB, NBA, etc.

I called back about 20 minutes later. I said I didn't want to leave D* but after paying a few hundred buck in Aug of 2006 for HD TiVO I wasn't ready to spend that again. I also mentioned the local cable company has free DVR equipment with no contract.

I got the $19.95 deal with only 1 year contract. The install next week.

I stressed that I wanted a pole mount, not on my roof or side of the house. Let's see if the installer is prepared. It should be easy, though, as he won't have any cable to run.

I only wanted a fair deal. I did not ask for free programming, only the ability to watch HD without paying for the new equipment.

I forgot to mention:
The rep said that D* would be sending me a box with prepaid postage and that I had to return my HR10 after the HR20 was successfully installed.

[Paznos]

Hey guys I've been reading this site and just called DirecTV today to see what I was eligible for since I'm interested in the HR20.

I was told I was eligible for a HD Swap for free! and they are coming tomorrow to install lol. They are going to swap out my HD Tivo(HD10-250?) and give me a H20 aswell, however I already have a H20 maybe its a different one?

Was really shocked they are coming so soon and giving it to me for free.

[97jacket]

Just spoke with Jeff in Retention. I'd previously been offered the $100 credit and 6 months of HD. He dropped it another $100 and credited me $45 for some installation charges for moving around some existing receivers.

Bottom line $299 - $200 - (6*$9.99) - $45 = $5 for me.

They also had appointments available tomorrow and Saturday, but I won't be available either of those, so Monday will have to do.

It's not the $19.95, but I'm happy with the deal.

[Milominderbinder2]

Just spoke with Jeff in Retention. I'd previously been offered the $100 credit and 6 months of HD. He dropped it another $100 and credited me $45 for some installation charges for moving around some existing receivers.

Bottom line $299 - $200 - (6*$9.99) - $45 = $5 for me.

They also had appointments available tomorrow and Saturday, but I won't be available either of those, so Monday will have to do.

It's not the $19.95, but I'm happy with the deal.
We thought that the $19 deal would go away when the new HD channels would come on. It appears it has.

We have also heard that they will even need to pull the $99 deal as well to slow down the rush of orders.

You did great. Many others are being told $199 and even $299 as the best offer.

Here are the steps to see how good a deal you might be able to get:

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

DIRECTV's Subscriber Acquisition Cost (SAC) averages $680 to install a new HR20.

So even $299 is half what it is costing them up front.

- Craig

[Sirshagg]

Hey guys I've been reading this site and just called DirecTV today to see what I was eligible for since I'm interested in the HR20.

I was told I was eligible for a HD Swap for free! and they are coming tomorrow to install lol. They are going to swap out my HD Tivo(HD10-250?) and give me a H20 aswell, however I already have a H20 maybe its a different one?

Was really shocked they are coming so soon and giving it to me for free.
:welcome_s and congrats!
You may want to check and make sure they are set to bring you an HR20. The H20 is not a DVR.

[Sirshagg]

DIRECTV's Subscriber Acquisition Cost (SAC) averages $680 to install a new HR20.


They could save a fortune by just shipping an HR20 to people like myself who already have a 5lnb and working HR20 instead of sending a guy to install it with a new dish (that is obviously not needed).

[Paznos]

:welcome_s and congrats!
You may want to check and make sure they are set to bring you an HR20. The H20 is not a DVR.

Good idea :) I just checked it and it is the HR20 as well as a H20 here's what it says on their website.

Swap Replace DIRECTV HD Rec. (Expanded HD Prog. Capable)

Swap Replace HR20 IRD.

[medicfl1]

I have both the HR10-250 and a HR20-100 DVR's
I prefer the HR20.
Less problems. I never had to reboot so many darn times!
I also prefer the remote.

I bought mine for $1000 in 2004 and still love it.

IN ADDITION, I refused to pay one thin dime for the HR20 DVR and the slimline dish over my three Lnb.
They also gave me six months at $20 credit each.

I did have to pay for the private company service call of $70

It was all quite simple really; you give it to me or I'm gone.

Since this month's bill alone is $250 I don't think they wanted to lose me. Wise choice on their part.

My package is prem. w/ NFL and superfan w/ 4 units running at $4.99 ea

I'm the type, pi*s me off and I'll go back to the bar on the corner for Jets games and cable was fine really. I still get my internet there so it would be no big deal to switch back.

[yamaham]

I already have an HR20 in the living room and 'sidecar' 5LNB dish installed. What are the chances they'll swap out my R10 (SD Tivo) in the bedroom for an HR20 without sending an 'installer'? I want to replace my bedroom tube TV with a nice flat screen :) and I don't need them to send some leatherneck out to screw-on the coax cables for me...

[serial lurker]

As I stated before I got the 199 deal with 6 months free HD programming. Should I call and cancel the install and go through the entire process again or just walk away. 4 calls; one crying CSR and well over an hour on the phone so far. It just kinda bothers me to see all these great deals everyone else is getting. :mad:

[Sirshagg]

I already have an HR20 in the living room and 'sidecar' 5LNB dish installed. What are the chances they'll swap out my R10 (SD Tivo) in the bedroom for an HR20 without sending an 'installer'? I want to replace my bedroom tube TV with a nice flat screen :) and I don't need them to send some leatherneck out to screw-on the coax cables for me...

Based on my experience the last two days (essentially) the same situation - 0%

[Sirshagg]

As I stated before I got the 199 deal with 6 months free HD programming. Should I call and cancel the install and go through the entire process again or just walk away. 4 calls; one crying CSR and well over an hour on the phone so far. It just kinda bothers me to see all these great deals everyone else is getting. :mad:

You really gotta take the deal you can live with and not worry what others are getting. Keep in mind that if you cancel this order it will still be on your account as cancelled so anyone new you talk to might be able to see it. We also don;t know how generous they are going to be now that new HD is up.

[poolguyh2o]

This thread has saved me $$$ BIG TIME.

I'm a 4+ year D* customer, with Sunday ticket, 3 premium channels, and Superfan. Called Customer Retention on Saturday. Got offered the H20 and free HD channels for a year. Took it then changed my mind 2 days later. Decided I wanted the HR20.

Sent a stern email asking for the HR20 for free. No dice. Got the $199 offer. Called D* customer retention again and got $249 in credits. So $299 - $250 = $49 plus shipping. Took the deal although not happy. Sent another email saying so.

Got a D* call the next day. They gave me the HR20 for free with $20 shipping. Said they couldn't offer me any premium channels. I took that deal and scheduled install for next week (getting better).

Called again tonight and asked for discounts on programming. Put on hold then got transferred to a very nice CSR. After a polite conversation, she checked to see what she could offer me and gave me this:

Free Superfan deal ($99)
Free Showtime, HBO, Cinemax, Starz for 3 months
Free HD Programming for 1 year
Free Nascar pass through the end of the season.

Bottom line, I was persistent but ALSO very polite and nice. I can't thank the posters on this thread enough for the helpful tips and words of advice.

[elshagon]

hey guys I've tried reading thru a number of posts and wonder if this offer is good from them or if I should try for more (I'm a long time customer in good standing and have the HD-Tivo currently).

I pay $199
get $10 credit for 12 months
HD package free for 6 months

thanks for the help.

edit, I called back and they wouldn't budge. I was very polite yet let them know since I'm not under contract I'm considering switching to Dish. I will call back again one last time tomorrow.

[Milominderbinder2]

hey guys I've tried reading thru a number of posts and wonder if this offer is good from them or if I should try for more (I'm a long time customer in good standing and have the HD-Tivo currently).

I pay $199
get $10 credit for 12 months
HD package free for 6 months

thanks for the help.

edit, I called back and they wouldn't budge. I was very polite yet let them know since I'm not under contract I'm considering switching to Dish. I will call back again one last time tomorrow.
Take it!

Do it now. That's $19!

You just got all you could from the Get a Great Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938) steps.

- Craig

[poopy01]

I called them yesterday. They gave me a hr20 for free, 10 off my bill for 12 months and free hd for 12 months. Install on monday. I was really nice to them.

[dthreet]

Posted this over at tivocommunity and Earl asked me to post it here:

For those of you that are worried about the $399 price go ahead and stop worrying. D* just called me and apologized for the $399 mix up and told me that since I have a leased HR10 they will and should be swapping it out for a leased HR20 free of charge. I just looked at my account and the work order reflects this. So in short it looks like D* will live up to their promise of swapping out the HR10 for the HR20 free of charge. Now if you own your HR10 then you will have to pay $399 to get a HR20 if you want to keep your HR10.

I think DirecTV plans to take care of all the HR10 customers. I did the $99 deal serveral months back. I just dont think DirecTV has the supply of HR20's w/ the demand on upgrades to swap them all at once. I am sure they have more to do than upgrade equipment. They also have to service normal issues.

[onin24eagle]

Well I don't seem to be getting much of a deal, just finished my second call.

$199 - HD-DVR

-$120 - Credit on service
-$120 - Credit for HD service

So that is $199 out of pocket with $240 credit. No free HBO, Showtine, Cinemax, Gift card, or anything.

I offered to take the deal if he would take $99 for the HD-DVR but got turned down. Guess I will try again tomorrow.

Let me try to understand this.

They are going to give you a DVR and pay you $40, and you don't think it's a good deal. :confused:

[Lord Vader]

If I were the D* CSR, I'd take your $99 offer but then rescind the credits.

[Sirshagg]

:welcome_s and congrate on the great deal.
I called them yesterday. They gave me a hr20 for free, 10 off my bill for 12 months and free hd for 12 months. Install on monday. I was really nice to them.

[Sirshagg]

Let me try to understand this.

They are going to give you a DVR and pay you $40, and you don't think it's a good deal. :confused:

Sounds like a pretty sweet deal to me to. If you decide not to take it would you see if they can transfer it to me.

[mtxguy74]

I was just shot down getting a deal. I started working on this too late and the new channels came online while I was researching.

Best deal he could do was $199 for the HR20. I told him I didn't think it was reasonable to expect me to pay another $200 after paying $500 for my HR10 a couple of years ago.

I have HBO, Protection plan and choice plus. I am a steady paying customer for 4 years. Only $40 to cancel. Off to call Dish.

[Sirshagg]

I was just shot down getting a deal. I started working on this too late and the new channels came online while I was researching.

Best deal he could do was $199 for the HR20. I told him I didn't think it was reasonable to expect me to pay another $200 after paying $500 for my HR10 a couple of years ago.

I have HBO, Protection plan and choice plus. I am a steady paying customer for 4 years. Only $40 to cancel. Off to call Dish.
:welcome_s If this was your first try keep trying it sometimes takes many many attempts before getting a better deal. It's CSR roulette after all.

[mtxguy74]

:welcome_s If this was your first try keep trying it sometimes takes many many attempts before getting a better deal. It's CSR roulette after all.


I plan to call back. In the meantime I emailed saying that I thought $199 was unreasonable. Maybe they will call me.:lol:

[MarkMac]

Well, I called 3 times in a row to try to swap my HR10 for an HR20. All 3 times I was told $299. No one would budge. In fact, the last CSR I spoke with was reading the comments from the previous CSRs because she told me that she saw that I had already called and had been given the $299 price. No more calling for me today. Maybe I'll try back in a week or 2.:rolleyes:

I have an HR20 down in the basement, and an H20 on the same TV as the HR10, so I have options. I just hate watching without the DVR...the only reason that H20 is there was for PIP!

[sroh]

Wow, I got a great deal last night!

I called per the recommendation, used 'cancel' and was connected to the retention group after a 10 minute wait. I told Cheryl, the customer rep, that I was interested in finding out what my options were to upgrade to the HR20. She was very friendly, we chatted about weather in Alabama andn California, etc.

Here is what she offered over the course of our conversation. Never once did I ask for more. She just kept on adding discounts:

Free install
Free 5lnb dish
Free HR20-100
$30 off monthly package including NFL Ticket for next 4 months
Free HD package for 12 months
$10 off per month for 12 months
Install the next morning!

I have been a Premier member for years and have automatic bill payment. She said I was one one of their best customers and that is why she was able to offer this to me. But she had to search her system to find these deals. She joked that management kept on moving things, probably to make it harder for them to find!

Unfortunately, the install hasn't been as smooth....

[sroh]

Wow, I got a great deal last night!

I called per the recommendation, used 'cancel' and was connected to the retention group after a 10 minute wait. I told Cheryl, the customer rep, that I was interested in finding out what my options were to upgrade to the HR20. She was very friendly, we chatted about weather in Alabama andn California, etc.

Here is what she offered over the course of our conversation. Never once did I ask for more. She just kept on adding discounts:

Free install
Free 5lnb dish
Free HR20-100
$30 off monthly package including NFL Ticket for next 4 months
Free HD package for 12 months
$10 off per month for 12 months
Install the next morning!

I have been a Premier member for years and have automatic bill payment. She said I was one one of their best customers and that is why she was able to offer this to me. But she had to search her system to find these deals. She joked that management kept on moving things, probably to make it harder for them to find!

Unfortunately, the install hasn't been as smooth....

$30 off monthly package including NFL Ticket for next 4 months
(What I mean by this is that I have the Premier Package, and she could offer me Premier plus NFL Ticket for $70 total per month for 4 months)

[sjr14221]

Okay, I will try to get a deal starting this weekend. Does everyone posting here already have HD service and are just upgrading their receiver, or do I have a chance at the deals getting new HD service?

I only have TCPlus with DVR service, however, I have been an on-time paying customer since I bought my house 4.5 years ago.

I see no reason to pay up front for equipment and also pay for the service! Speaking of which - do you think these tactics could work with Hughes for satellite internet :-)? I can't stand dial-up and live in east jahunga.

Thanks and wish me luck

[Sirshagg]

Okay, I will try to get a deal starting this weekend. Does everyone posting here already have HD service and are just upgrading their receiver, or do I have a chance at the deals getting new HD service?

I only have TCPlus with DVR service, however, I have been an on-time paying customer since I bought my house 4.5 years ago.

I see no reason to pay up front for equipment and also pay for the service! Speaking of which - do you think these tactics could work with Hughes for satellite internet :-)? I can't stand dial-up and live in east jahunga.

Thanks and wish me luck
:welcome_s and good luck. I suspect this thread is filled with stories from people with just about any D* suspscription status you could imagine. Me personally - I had an HR10 and HD service already.

[nick9742]

I have a broken R15 that I just got about 5 months ago and asked for the HD upgrade today and mentioned the broken unit and all I got was $75 off $299 and no free HD channels and also was asked to pay $50 for installing in a new room. So I was going to end up paying close to $280 total. This was only the 2nd call though, but they wouldn't budge either time. I told them I was going to check out Dish and they said have a nice day.

I have been a customer for about 4 years..2 years with Center Ice and always on time. I got the run around for about an hour and still only managed that measly credit. I'll try again Monday. I wasn't seriously considering Dish until now, but I will def. check them out after the next couple of calls if I can't at least get something similar to what other people are getting.

[pinballfan]

I ended up with $99 upgrade and 3 months of credits for HBO & Showtime ($24/month). So that leaves me with $27.... Clearly not the best around here, but good enough for me.

This was on my second call. First time I didn't say I wanted to cancel and the best I could get was $199. Second call still took most of an hour to work it out. She was quick to say the correct price was $99, not $199, but it took some hemming and hawing (sp?) to get the credits.

There was also some delay because I didn't want to upgrade my old Sony HD-100. So she had to do extra work since the computer insisted on upgrading all of my HD equipment. I found it amusing that they wanted the same $99 to upgrade it to a H20 as they wanted to upgrade the HR10-250 to a HR20. (especially since there was the dish to deal with...)

[Sirshagg]

I ended up with $99 upgrade and 3 months of credits for HBO & Showtime ($24/month). So that leaves me with $27.... Clearly not the best around here, but good enough for me.

This was on my second call. First time I didn't say I wanted to cancel and the best I could get was $199. Second call still took most of an hour to work it out. She was quick to say the correct price was $99, not $199, but it took some hemming and hawing (sp?) to get the credits.

There was also some delay because I didn't want to upgrade my old Sony HD-100. So she had to do extra work since the computer insisted on upgrading all of my HD equipment. I found it amusing that they wanted the same $99 to upgrade it to a H20 as they wanted to upgrade the HR10-250 to a HR20. (especially since there was the dish to deal with...)
:welcome_s and nice deal!

[sb40]

Monday D* is hooking up the my new HR20 replacing my R15.

19.99 + tax .

They did not give me a hard time when I asked what my buy out was.

Plus they sent me a remote that I did not need or want (cause) the CSR did not know what the problem was, they charged me 15.00 bucks so when I called them (4 people Later) the guy said keep it and I give you 60.00 off your bill, i said Send me a FEDX slip and I'll send it back. No Take the the remote and the 60.00 bucks . OK lol

[Milominderbinder2]

Well, I called 3 times in a row to try to swap my HR10 for an HR20. All 3 times I was told $299. No one would budge. In fact, the last CSR I spoke with was reading the comments from the previous CSRs because she told me that she saw that I had already called and had been given the $299 price. No more calling for me today. Maybe I'll try back in a week or 2.:rolleyes:

I have an HR20 down in the basement, and an H20 on the same TV as the HR10, so I have options. I just hate watching without the DVR...the only reason that H20 is there was for PIP!
Are you sure you were talking to Retention?
How many Hearts are you? How many months left? What is your buyout?

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

Monday D* is hooking up the my new HR20 replacing my R15.

19.99 + tax .

They did not give me a hard time when I asked what my buy out was...

Good job!

You are down to step 8 of the Get a Great Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938) steps.

Don't stop now!

- Craig

[MarkMac]

Are you sure you were talking to Retention?
How many Hearts are you? How many months left? What is your buyout?

- Craig

No, I wasn't speaking to Retention...I was told I was speaking with Tech support. I'm not sure about the number of hearts or buyout, but I have 22 months left. I got a free HR20 back in July when I had called to cancel my Sunday Ticket. They offered that to me if I would keep ST. They also waived the fee for SF...though I don't consider that worth much as I've never paid for SF.

[tivoreno]

Hi everyone. Here I am with my hat-in-hand coming over from TivoCommunity. Don't have my HR20 yet, but here is the deal I signed up for yesterday evening:

Decided to rely on my charm and not bother with the script, feeling it might not be the right script anymore for the current environment. :lol: Called to 'cancel' and started talking to Kimberly. She was nice, but appologetic that she could not offer me anything other than $199 to replace my HR10 or $299 to just add a new receiver. Ready to give up on my charm I told her I could do it for free with Comcast and started to say goodby. Suddenly she offered me a $100 credit to "help offset the cost". I replied that I was not inclined to accept that and asked if that was all she could do. She then offered free HD for a year and I bit on the replacement offer.

BUT, as she worked the order, she came back and said: "The system is not charging you anything, not even a shipping charge." I said: "Cool!" She then appologized that she could no longer give me the $100 credit but she'd be happy to honor the free HD for a year. I got my calculator out and typed in: 0 - 120 = ?

Next I asked how long I would have to watch all the recordings on the HR10 that I was 'replacing'. She said: "...as long as you want...we don't want it back". I asked if I could keep it active, she said: "Sure, eventually it won't record any more HD but you are free to still use it". :D

Install is on Oct 3rd, but the order says I am upgrading, not adding, so there is no multiswitch in the order. How do I get that added so I can keep 3 dual tuner units active? I tried to get Kimberly to add it, but she just said: "...the installer should have that with him".

[Milominderbinder2]

No, I wasn't speaking to Retention...I was told I was speaking with Tech support. I'm not sure about the number of hearts or buyout, but I have 22 months left. I got a free HR20 back in July when I had called to cancel my Sunday Ticket. They offered that to me if I would keep ST. They also waived the fee for SF...though I don't consider that worth much as I've never paid for SF.
Please try these steps:

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

They can work for you!

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

..Decided to rely on my charm and not bother with the script...
Nice work! And Welcome!

You inadvertently did the script (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938) perfetly!

You are up to step 8 where it tells how to verify your work order. Also make sure you got an AM install and the other things...

- Craig

[Sirshagg]

Hi everyone. Here I am with my hat-in-hand coming over from TivoCommunity. Don't have my HR20 yet, but here is the deal I signed up for yesterday evening:

Decided to rely on my charm and not bother with the script, feeling it might not be the right script anymore for the current environment. :lol: Called to 'cancel' and started talking to Kimberly. She was nice, but appologetic that she could not offer me anything other than $199 to replace my HD10 or $299 to just add a new receiver. Ready to give up on my charm I told her I could do it for free with Comcast and started to say goodby. Suddenly she offered me a $100 credit to "help offset the cost". I replied that I was not inclined to accept that and asked if that was all she could do. She then offered free HD for a year and I bit on the replacement offer.

BUT, as she worked the order, she came back and said: "The system is not charging you anything, not even a shipping charge." I said: "Cool!" She then appologized that she could no longer give me the $100 credit but she'd be happy to honor the free HD for a year. I got my calculator out and typed in: 0 - 120 = ?

Next I asked how long I would have to watch all the recordings on the HD10 that I was 'replacing'. She said: "...as long as you want...we don't want it back". I asked if I could keep it active, she said: "Sure, eventually it won't record any more HD but you are free to still use it". :D

Install is on Oct 3rd, but the order says I am upgrading, not adding, so there is no multiswitch in the order. How do I get that added so I can keep 3 dual tuner units active? I tried to get Kimberly to add it, but she just said: "...the installer should have that with him".

Do you already have the 5lnb dish? You will need that for the new HD.
The multiswitch you need is the Zinwell wb68.
If you don;t have these already make sure they are on the order. It's likely that the installer will charge you extra if it's not on the order and D* should not charge you for these. Oh yeah, make sure installation of these is on the order too. Congrats on the deal

[tivoreno]

Well, here is my order as it stands:
Order Detail:
Standard Professional Install $0.00 1 $0.00
Swap ReplaceImplied DVR IRD $0.00 1 $0.00
Handling $0.00 1 $0.00
Swap Replace HR20 IRD $0.00 1 $0.00
Subtotal: $0.00
Tax: $0.00
Total: $0.00
Installation Appointment: Wednesday, October 3, 2007 - Morning (8 AM to Noon)

I guess I'll need to call back.

Called back and the CSR said the work order called for a 5-lnb dish, so I guess we wait 'till Wed mornin'.

[Lord Vader]

Hi everyone. Here I am with my hat-in-hand coming over from TivoCommunity. Don't have my HR20 yet, but here is the deal I signed up for yesterday evening:

Decided to rely on my charm and not bother with the script, feeling it might not be the right script anymore for the current environment. :lol: Called to 'cancel' and started talking to Kimberly. She was nice, but appologetic that she could not offer me anything other than $199 to replace my HR10 or $299 to just add a new receiver. Ready to give up on my charm I told her I could do it for free with Comcast and started to say goodby. Suddenly she offered me a $100 credit to "help offset the cost". I replied that I was not inclined to accept that and asked if that was all she could do. She then offered free HD for a year and I bit on the replacement offer.

BUT, as she worked the order, she came back and said: "The system is not charging you anything, not even a shipping charge." I said: "Cool!" She then appologized that she could no longer give me the $100 credit but she'd be happy to honor the free HD for a year. I got my calculator out and typed in: 0 - 120 = ?

Next I asked how long I would have to watch all the recordings on the HR10 that I was 'replacing'. She said: "...as long as you want...we don't want it back". I asked if I could keep it active, she said: "Sure, eventually it won't record any more HD but you are free to still use it". :D

Install is on Oct 3rd, but the order says I am upgrading, not adding, so there is no multiswitch in the order. How do I get that added so I can keep 3 dual tuner units active? I tried to get Kimberly to add it, but she just said: "...the installer should have that with him".

She's right. Most installers carry the multiswitches. The ones who service my area provide them at no cost. In fact, one DirecTV installer who lives in my apt. complex gave me a free extra WB68 multiswitch when I asked if he had one. No questions asked.

[sgsmith]

(Well, at least it did as of today)

Called and spoke with a nice CSR who wouldn't budge on the $299 deal, so I said the magic word "cancel". Transferred to what I assume is the retention department, who immediately gave the $19.95 deal. Installation is scheduled for Monday 08:00 - 12:00. I also requested a multiswitch, and it shows on the order.

I do have a concern about LoS to the satellites. I self installed my single LNB 10 years ago and had to aim through a gap in the trees. Hopefully the installer will be able to get good LoS for all the birds. Assuming that, this is going to be one of the easiest installs ever done. The current multiswitch is on a panel board in the attic, and dual drops are going out to three bedrooms. All he'll have to do is bring the four cables off the dish up into the attic and put connectors on.

Do the installers use a special 4 line cable or use 4 separate cables?

[Milominderbinder2]

Well, here is my order as it stands:
Order Detail:
Standard Professional Install $0.00 1 $0.00
Swap ReplaceImplied DVR IRD $0.00 1 $0.00
Handling $0.00 1 $0.00
Swap Replace HR20 IRD $0.00 1 $0.00
Subtotal: $0.00
Tax: $0.00
Total: $0.00
Installation Appointment: Wednesday, October 3, 2007 - Morning (8 AM to Noon)

I guess I'll need to call back.

Called back and the CSR said the work order called for a 5-lnb dish, so I guess we wait 'till Wed mornin'.
Whether they have them in the truck or not, many installers and installation companies will say,

"If it is not on the work order, I can't do it."

The script will help you. You are on step 8. What do you gain by not calling back? Use the other link to check the work order as well.

Also the magic words to use to keep the old receivers is to say that you would like to have them moved. The installer could care less if you decide not to move them but he is no longer asked to pick up old equipment.

Some installers take the old equipment pickup very seriously and others see it as a hassle.

The Get a Great Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938) script will help you. You are on step 8. What do you gain by not calling back?

- Craig

[flexpackman]

Cross-posting from Tivocommunity.
You can apparently still get a CSR to work with you, at least today....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well after 45 minutes on hold this morning, with the first CSR in retention, and using a slightly modified version of the "Get a Good Deal" post, this was my scenario.

I was already out of contract. I currently have one HR10-250, two SD Directv Tivos, and two HD receivers.

After comparing competitors prices and further negotiations of another 20 minutes, got two HR20 HD-DVR's, 5 LNB Dish, 16 port multiswitch, Installation, and 1 years credit on HD Programming. Get to keep the HR10-250.

Had to take the 2 year commitment however.

End cost - $21.53 (thats shipping and tax)

Decided to not push luck and took the offer..... ;)

Checked on-line account and it's all there.

So their are still offers out there to be realized.

BTW- When have "P's", "Thumbs-Ups", and "Smiley Faces" codings to your account been mentioned along with the "Hearts"????

[Milominderbinder2]

...I said the magic word "cancel". Transferred to what I assume is the retention department, who immediately gave the $19.95 deal. Installation is scheduled for Monday 08:00 - 12:00. I also requested a multiswitch, and it shows on the order.

Do the installers use a special 4 line cable or use 4 separate cables?
Good work using the Get a Great Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938) script!

You are on step 10, keep going!

As to your cable, if it is over 5 years old, try to get it all replaced. It may be legacy RG59 or worse, steel core RG6.

They will also replace your switch.

- Craig

[DaCoach]

I just signed up for D* and have a HD receiver. I was told that I could get the HR20 but that it would cost $199. However the equipment is leased and I would have to return it if service is discontinued. Now I can order the same model for $218. It makes sense to buy rather than lease.

Will the install by me only require I swap connections same as on the current HR receiver or are there considerable adjustments that I need to make to get it up and running.

One further problem is that I don't have a home land line. The manual refers to the necessity of a landline for service. Is that true and is there a workaround?

[MizzouTiger]

Just ordered my 2nd HR20 today. I paid full price ($299) for the 1st one back in January. I did get a free H20 in February. Called today and said "Cancel Service". Took me right to retention. Told them that I wanted to add another HR20, but didn't want to pay full price since I had already done that for the 1st one, and that E* was offering some pretty good deals. She immediately responded that the regular price for the HR20 was $299 but she could give it to me for $199. I hesitated for a minute, and without saying anything, she came back and said that she could knock another $100 off and could give it to me for $99 plus $19.95 shipping. I then asked how much longer I had on my committment. She then said should could give me 12 months of free HD Access, which takes my net cost down to $0. I took the offer. Told her my plan was to replace the H20 with the HR20 and asked if I needed to send the H20 back to D*. She checked and said that I owned it and didn't need to send it back. I do have an R10 that I own and still use, but I don't see how she could have confused those two receivers. I guess we'll see what they say when we call to cancel service on the H20 - they may tell me I have to return it then, which is fine. Supposed to be getting the new HR20 installed Tuesday (10/2) morning. Should be a simple plug-n-play install. Already have the 5 lnb dish, WB68 switch, and two line run to where the HR20 is going (originally had the R10 there). Installed should be a happy camper with this one. And do will I!!:D :D :D :D

[Sirshagg]

I just signed up for D* and have a HD receiver. I was told that I could get the HR20 but that it would cost $199. However the equipment is leased and I would have to return it if service is discontinued. Now I can order the same model for $218. It makes sense to buy rather than lease.

Will the install by me only require I swap connections same as on the current HR receiver or are there considerable adjustments that I need to make to get it up and running.

One further problem is that I don't have a home land line. The manual refers to the necessity of a landline for service. Is that true and is there a workaround?
:welcome_s
Unless you pay full price (approx $750) for the HR20 then it's leased no matter where you get it.

In order to get the real benefit from the HR20 you need a 5lnb dish. Installing the receiver is simple, but installing and aiming the dish will be much more work. I see lots of people here saying they did it themselves but I would not even cnsider it.

I don;t believe the HR20's need a land line and I have not ever had mine connected to one.

[mephisto]

Unless you pay full price (approx $750) for the HR20 then it's leased no matter where you get it.


Why would you say that? Every retailer sells the HR20 for $270-300 and while there is a requirement for activation it doesn't make the receiver leased. If I buy at a retailer then I own it.

[WarBird]

Why would you say that? Every retailer sells the HR20 for $270-300 and while there is a requirement for activation it doesn't make the receiver leased. If I buy at a retailer then I own it.

I just ordered one from SolidSignal, and they very clearly stated that the unit will be a lease which will need to be returned to Directv at the time that I stop service or upgrade to a new receiver. You're not "purchasing" It's just the upfront cost of the "lease".

[captain16vgti]

Sirshagg and Warbird are correct. When I talked to my CSR she told me that the only way I could own it was to buy it out right for $750ish. She stated very clearly that if I didn't pay that full price I would be leasing it and it would have to be returned to Dtv when I wanted to cancel my subscription.

-Chris

[Milominderbinder2]

Unless you pay $749 to DIRECTV themselves, you are getting a leased unit. At your installation, you will sign a lease agreement.

But many have said that DIRECTV did not want their leased HR10's back.

That is why the Get a Great Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938) script includes a note on this.

- Craig

[digitalfreak]

What's the best deal folks have been getting as a new customer? A guy I work with is a HD junkie like me, and cable isn't cutting it for him anymore. He's looking for 2 HR20s.

[badbrad]

Ok, got the $19.95 deal for a second HR20. However, my order shows $345, but if I open the detail it only shows the shipping charges but with a $345 on the Total line. Is it just too early for the credit to show up on the order form on-line or should I call them on this?

[Sirshagg]

Ok, got the $19.95 deal for a second HR20. However, my order shows $345, but if I open the detail it only shows the shipping charges but with a $345 on the Total line. Is it just too early for the credit to show up on the order form on-line or should I call them on this?
:welcome_s
I'd call them now and get it corrected. I noticed both times on mine that the orders in the system didn;t match what I agreed to on the phone. Sure enough they charged what was on the order and I had to call to get it fixed.

[badbrad]

Well, they did charge me $199 and not the $19.99 shipping only. I cancelled the order. Should I try again or am I flagged now for the cancellation?

[Striker]

Well, they did charge me $199 and not the $19.99 shipping only. I cancelled the order. Should I try again or am I flagged now for the cancellation?

Afternoon:

Call them back and explain that you were offered the $19.95 price and that the order must have been written up wrong. If you wrote down the name of the CSR who created the order, make sure to pass it along. It's always good to write down the date, time, and who you spoke with when issues such as this come up.

[sgsmith]

I do have a concern about LoS to the satellites.I hate being right. :nono2: It's time to go meet the neighbor and see just how attached they are to that 80' pine tree behind their house. And time to get a quote from the tree service folks who cut down a couple of trees of mine earlier this year.

[Milominderbinder2]

What's the best deal folks have been getting as a new customer? A guy I work with is a HD junkie like me, and cable isn't cutting it for him anymore. He's looking for 2 HR20s.
Call them and ask exactly that. Tell them that DISH gives you free HD DVR's with bigger hard drives (ViP722, 500 GB).

Follow the Get a Great Deal on an HR20 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938) script.

Make sure you get retention. Make the call and do each step. It will work for you.

- Craig

[s_m]

Crap - I'm not getting anywhere with reduced pricing on the 2nd HR20. Lowest price quoted for 2nd unit is $199. I got my first HR20 about 6 weeks ago for $19.99 + programming credits. I probably should have pressed for another one when I was ordering the first.

Hopefully there will be another period where the deals can be had following this surge in demand.

[BlueSnake]

Crap - I'm not getting anywhere with reduced pricing on the 2nd HR20. Lowest price quoted for 2nd unit is $199. I got my first HR20 about 6 weeks ago for $19.99 + programming credits. I probably should have pressed for another one when I was ordering the first.

Hopefully there will be another period where the deals can be had following this surge in demand.

s_m

You may have to go the cancellation threat route. I just did that to get a deal on my 2nd after 3 months. I asked what my buyout was and told them my cable company was going to pay my D* cancellation fees and no charge for HD DVR and that I really didn't want to switch but that I needed another HD DVR. I finally got the 2nd one for $99 and some programming credits which ended up with a net of them paying me. I had to make 5 calls to finally get a deal I was happy with.

Keep trying.

[lemmalone]

Thanks to all who put their deal discussions online, and esp. to Craig. Here's my 2cents: After two calls to mostly non-budging first-line CSRs, I took the advice to go direct to Retention. I followed the script loosely. The (very pleasant) rep. quickly went to $199 +19.95s/h on the hr20 and a $10/mo. discount for hd for a year. I had to ask for any more programming discounts and after checking, or pretending to, she added a $10/mo. discount on Total Choice for a year. So the discounts outweigh the price of the hr20 by $20. That was what I was looking for and I've spent enough time on this, so I don't know if there was more there. By the way, I asked about the hearts rating, and she said that there is such a rating but that she doesn't pay attention to it. She said that length of time and payment history were what mattered to her. Thanks again to all.

[Revenoor]

I have family friend in their late 60"s with her daughter, son-n-law and 4 y.o. grandson. i have done quite a bite of work for this lady and she looks to me for the word on what she should do. Currently Comcast (Atlanta suburb) no premiums, SD only, no OTA. Additionaly, she is subscribed to a place called TANTV for Korean DBS. Total package price is about 100 monthly. The service is bad to say the least, Tan did a horrible job integrating, actually had her swapping cables to switch cable/DBS. She has asked me to get her an HDTV and arrange D* service for her at my recommendation. Wants 4 SD receivers, 1 SD DVR and 1 HD DVR. She will settle for a total of 4 receivers to get the free install and I will RF out to the other casual TVs. She is willing to pay me to set up the whole system (she pays WELL) but unlike the old days I'm not sure if I could get the equipment (no problem technically on my part, been setting them up since 6-10' C band days and installed my slim line with high 90 on 103B. Since I would much prefer that the newly acquired HDTV (thinking 50" plasma or 62" DLP) be in place and checked SD wise before the D* install, I am thinking that she should wait until Black Friday to get the TV then order service. Thoughts???

[bsnelson]

OK, I've looked through the last few pages; my apologies if I didn't look far enough back.

I've got eight dual tuner receivers. I'll be replacing one of them with an HR20 (if I can get a decent enough deal), but obviously I need a 16 port multiswitch. What's DirecTV's policy on this? Will they supply a 16 port switch in this case, or are they going to make me pay extra for it (or buy it outright)?

Brad

[anubys]

OK, I've looked through the last few pages; my apologies if I didn't look far enough back.

I've got eight dual tuner receivers. I'll be replacing one of them with an HR20 (if I can get a decent enough deal), but obviously I need a 16 port multiswitch. What's DirecTV's policy on this? Will they supply a 16 port switch in this case, or are they going to make me pay extra for it (or buy it outright)?

Brad

you might be a candidate for the single line setup...not sure about the terminology, but I think SWL is what you should be searching for (someone please correct me if this is wrong)...

it's a new way of connecting only one cable to your HR20 that is then split into two...you need a special multiswitch that can do it...I don't think DirecTV has rolled it out yet (only testing some select users)...

again, my info is not very good since it's not something I've actively read about...but there are many threads here talking about this...

[DakotaKid]

I just got off the phone with Scott @ retention, and it was almost too easy. When I told him I really want to stay with D*, hes says "You're looking for our best deal, what is it you want"?

I told him the new HDDVR, and he said that since I've been such a loyal customer, it was shipping only, $19.95. I didn't try for more credits, as I could care less about that, I just want the hardware.

Install is scheduled for 10/15 in the am. I also get to keep my old 10-250 to move up to the living room.

[tlqualman]

Thanks to the advice here I was able to get the following deal last night. On my first call I got a very nice CSR. I told here I wanted to stay but could get a much better deal elsewhere. I ended up getting an HD-DVR for 19.95, +2 new HD recievers for free (yes I have 3 HD TV's, im hooked ) a new 5LNB dish free, free installation, 6 months free HD programing, and 3 months free Showtime and HBO. Before hanging up the CSR verified what I was getting and made sure all the credits were on my bill and that it was correct and complete. I cant complain about the install appointment either, called about 9pm on tuesday and got a saturday install the same week. Thanks for all the good advice guys.

[MikeR]

but I think SWL is what you should be searching for (someone please correct me if this is wrong)...

SWM - Single Wire Multiswitch

[loowaters]

It had been a few months since my last effort to get a HR20 but last night I got the deal I'd been looking for thanks to the cancel threat. $99 + 19.95 ship and free HD for a year. Net cost - virtually nothing. Thanks D*, I love you!

[Sirshagg]

Thanks to the advice here I was able to get the following deal last night. On my first call I got a very nice CSR. I told here I wanted to stay but could get a much better deal elsewhere. I ended up getting an HD-DVR for 19.95, +2 new HD recievers for free (yes I have 3 HD TV's, im hooked ) a new 5LNB dish free, free installation, 6 months free HD programing, and 3 months free Showtime and HBO. Before hanging up the CSR verified what I was getting and made sure all the credits were on my bill and that it was correct and complete. I cant complain about the install appointment either, called about 9pm on tuesday and got a saturday install the same week. Thanks for all the good advice guys.
:welcome_s That sounds like a sweet deal. Congrats.

[Milominderbinder2]

Crap - I'm not getting anywhere with reduced pricing on the 2nd HR20. Lowest price quoted for 2nd unit is $199. I got my first HR20 about 6 weeks ago for $19.99 + programming credits. I probably should have pressed for another one when I was ordering the first.

Hopefully there will be another period where the deals can be had following this surge in demand.
Do not wait. This morning they just added 11 more reasons to get the HR20 now:

Comcast SportsNet Chicago HD (Channel 640)
Comcast SportsNet Mid-Atlantic HD (Channel 629)
New England Sports Network/NESN HD(Channel 623)
SportsNet New York HD (Channel 625)
YES HD (Channel 622)
Cinemax East (Channel 512)
Cinemax West (Channel 514)
HBO West (Channel 504)
Bravo (Channel 273)
SciFi Channel (Channel 244)
USA Network (Channel 242)

As a part of that, they pulled the plug on the first five of those with HR10 MPEG2's. As HR10 users realize that their old HD channels are no longer there, I expect a mild panic. I think that in most cases the old HR10 channels are being broadcast for a while but on other channels.

Also note that as of this morning, the CSRs and Installers are almost maxed out and DIRECTV still has not yet had a press release (http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=127160&p=irol-news&nyo=0) that the new HD channels are on.

What happens when DIRECTV announces that the new HD channels are on?

I predict HR20's will be wait-listed just like last year. Even if they have enough HR20's there will not be enough installers.

- Craig

[Lord Vader]

Do not wait. This morning they just added 11 more reasons to get the HR20 now:

Comcast SportsNet Chicago HD (Channel 640)
Comcast SportsNet Mid-Atlantic HD (Channel 629)
New England Sports Network/NESN HD(Channel 623)
SportsNet New York HD (Channel 625)
YES HD (Channel 622)
Cinemax East (Channel 512)
Cinemax West (Channel 514)
HBO West (Channel 504)
Bravo (Channel 273)
SciFi Channel (Channel 244)
USA Network (Channel 242)

As a part of that, they pulled the plug on the first five of those with HR10 MPEG2's. As HR10 users realize that their old HD channels are no longer there, I expect a mild panic. I think that in most cases the old HR10 channels are being broadcast for a while but on other channels.

Also note that as of this morning, the CSRs and Installers are almost maxed out and DIRECTV still has not yet had a press release (http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=127160&p=irol-news&nyo=0) that the new HD channels are on.

What happens when DIRECTV announces that the new HD channels are on?

I predict HR20's will be wait-listed just like last year. Even if they have enough HR20's there will not be enough installers.

- Craig

Emphasis added.

Milo, can you elaborate on what I highlighted in red? If I understand you correctly, those channels never were in HD on the HR10-250 anyway. I know that I was never able to get Comcast Sportsnet Chicago in HD on my HR10-250.