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

[sequoiadean]

Finally got a decent deal, after several calls. Entire call literally took 10 minutes.

1 HR20
1 5LNB Dish
Free Install, including new multiswitch

Inclues "relocating" my HR10, although I'm going to keep that in place and instead put it where I have another HD receiver.

$99, plus $19.95 shipping and handling
12 months of $10 off

so, net cost is 0.

Install date: 10/16.

[bcherry]

Called Retention to discuss another issue I had. When that was resolved I asked about the best deal I could get on the HR20. Because of my long relationship with D* (subscriber since the late 90's) I was offered the receiver for a net $49 ($299- $250 credit) plus a S&H fee of $19.95. With taxes the total was $73.09. I was very satisfied and didn't press for any further discounts or credits.

[micah67]

Same story as so many others:
A call to retention asking to upgrade my HR10 and Justin set me up with the full install and dish for $99 +S&H. I asked what further could be done and, after a quick check of my account, was told they'd subtract $20 a month from the bill for 6 months.

As an aside, he told me it was misnamed as a "swap" as the old unit stays with me (as expected). Installation is scheduled for Sunday, 10/15.

[longshot]

Wow reading all this I feel really lucky with the deal I got sunday. I got 2 HR20's, and the new AT9 Dish installed all for a grand total of $0.00. I have 2 owned HR10-250's, and 4 owned SD Tivo's. I am taking 2 of the SD Tivo's off the account and putting on the 2 new HR20's. Been a customer for 2 years, am on the premium package, and get Sunday Ticket and Center Ice.

They charged my credit card $213.10 and put a $213.10 credit on my account.

LonG

[LameLefty]

Interesting how some of the deals are working out. I didn't get (nor did I ask for) any programming credits or freebies, but I did get a completely free unit, dish and install (not even shipping and handling). I also didn't have to provide a credit card - I was charged $119 in equipment and S&H on my DirecTV account and then immediately credited back the very same amounts. I wonder what determines whether D* wants/needs a credit card?

[longshot]

I dunno thats a good question, I forgot to say that I didn't ask for freebies I told him what I wanted and what would it cost me to do it. He offered the deal above for being one of DirecTV's most valued customers.

Maybee the fact my bill is $120 a month helped me out :)

[LameLefty]

I dunno thats a good question, I forgot to say that I didn't ask for freebies I told him what I wanted and what would it cost me to do it. He offered the deal above for being one of DirecTV's most valued customers.

Maybee the fact my bill is $120 a month helped me out :)

Could be. Mine's only about $80 currently including 5 receivers and two SD DVRs (except four the four months a year I'm paying for NFLST), but there have been periods of the last 9-1/2 years when I've had EVERYTHING DirecTV and the old USSB offered (the old Gold and then Platinum packages, I think they were called). But I just was interested that some folks are being charged on credit cards and then given free programming and some are not and why D* makes that distinction. Maybe it's just the whim of the person who takes the call.

[EMoMoney]

I called the other day to complain about the audio droputs on the HR10 after the 6.3 update where they offered to replace the HR10. After trying to get the "DVR Specialist" to really justify why they would offer to replace hardware when the problem really is a software issue, which he couldn't give me a good reason. I told him no thanks then called retention.

Retention was very nice, I explained the situation and she said they would replace the HR10 wih the HR20 and waive the $99 fee. I didn't even have to ask for het to waive it.

[AlbertZeroK]

Well I am a real unhappty camper. I signed up for the email on this website to alert me when the HR20-700 was available in my area. I recieved the email this morning so I called DTV and was placed with retention. The bitch I spoke to said they were only available by going to Best Buy and purchasing a leased HR20-700 DVR and they could not order it for me, but I can pay full price and go to Best Buy. I then went on to say that my account was flagged to get it for the 19.00 shipping. She said she didn't care what my account said but I was not going to get it for free when available. She told me that there were some CSR's that gave them away and DirecTV was not going to honor the original agreement. She went on to say that she was unaware of the price point that I would have to pay, but she guaranteed I was NOT GETTING IT FOR FREE and she noted my account with that information. She said at the time the free offer was offered they were not aware of the price point and there was no way they could have given it to me for free. She also said that they would probably not be able to order it for me until the end of September, which is now a month after I was originally told, the end of August. I went on to tell her that I will not pay for it, and if they don't honor my original offer I would be leaving DTV after ten years and switching to Comcast, she was such a bitch she went on to say, would I like to cancel my service now?

I am royally pissed off. One CSR doesn't know what they others have done and now are refusing to honor what a customer was orignally told and what is marked on my account. That's complete bull***. And now my account is marked that I don't get it for free. I am LIVID!!!!!!


Just call back in and get someone else.

[tstarn]

Well, I had some earlier problems with D* (with my H20/A9 installer not showing up), so they had some history with me. When I called to try and buy the HR-20 (since it was out of stock at Best Buy), they didn't have them to sell yet (this is in late August). So the kind retention woman gave me a $250 credit on our bill, plus 6 mos. at $20 off (starting in Feb. 07, since they had already given me 6 mos at $20 off due to the installer hassle).

In the meantime, I backordered the HR-20 from Best Buy online for $399 plus S&H, but the price dropped to $299 in the interim. So with S&H from BB, I would up about $50 to the good, albeit it will take until Feb. 2007 to realize the profit. Anyway, it worked out. Now, if the box would just starti working out...I'd gladly trade some of that measly profit for a reliable HR-20.

[jj4518]

FINALLY!!!
On my 4th call to retention I got the $19.95 deal today plus 4 months of HD programming for free!!
Installation is scheduled for October 17th.


JJ
Hughes Tivo
R15
Directv since '99
Total choice plus
sports package
I DO NOT have the NFL package so if you're a "regular' customer getting a deal can be done!!

[DJConan]

Here is my recent experience...

I bought my HR20 from BB when I realized it was available. I paid $299 and that was it...no deals.

I de-activated my HD Hughs box. That left me with an H10 and an HR20. I considered adding another HR20 to replace the H10, so I called DirecTV to see what kind of deal I would be offered. I was offered the HR20 for $299 with $10 a month credit for the next 12 months. So $199 after $20 shipping. I passed on that deal since I just bought the first box at full price.


About a week ago, the H10 stopped working correctly. Green lines scattered all over the screen. So I called up this evening and asked again if there were any special deals being offered. I explained my situation with the H10 going bad and that I had the dish being installed this Saturday. My opinion is, me telling the guy that the H10 was bad and that the installation was this Saturday had no effect on the final result.

After looking up my account, he offered the box for $199. I asked if he could throw in any programming credits to go along with that. He said he would check, but I was never put on hold. (What are they "checking" when they do that?) He then said he could offer me 4 months of HD programming for free, and $10 credit for the next 12 months. Now that was a deal I was happy with. Am I the only one who thinks it's strange that when you ask for a credit, they turn around and offer you a credit?

I also spread the $199 payment over the course of 3 months and it was applied to my bill (not credit card).

Summary:

1st HR20 bought from BB:
No deal (my fault!)
No Shipping Fee
No Installation Fee
Total: $299


2nd HR20 through DTV:
HR20 $199.95 over 3 months
Credit: 4 Months of HD: $40
Credit: 12 Months of $10: $120
No Shipping Fee
Total: $40


I suppose it's worth noting, I simply had 2 HD boxes originally (No DirecTivo). I've been a subscriber for 3 years with HD programming. My bill goes directly to my credit card anyway.

My installation date did not change. I guess the installer just needs to bring 1 HR20 with him now.

[Smitty20]

Well, I knew this was coming out sometime, and thanks to DBSTalk.com I figured it out today!! :lol:

Oh well, so I made the call....


Talked to Julius about what I wanted (free swap out for my 3 month old HDTivo), and he told me the deal was $99 (as reported here).

He asked me what I was told, and I said a "free" swap out. He said let me see how I can do this.

Solution: Charges my account $66 for 3 months, but put a $200 credit on my accout today.


So D* paid me $2 to make the switch!! :righton:

Install scheduled for 10/13


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


Now, what I'd like to do next is swap out my H20 upstairs for an HR20...Anyone know what price I may be able to this for?

I love DirecTV :righton:

[yamaham]

Made my first call last night, didn't get the deal I wanted. HR20 for $299, $19.95 shipping, $150 off up front, Free HD for 4 months ($40), $10 off for following 8 months ($80). It was stated 'Free HD and $10 off for 12 months' but I confirmed twice that this was not $10 off on top of Free HD. It would take until October 2007 to realize the full savings and probably knock me out of getting any other specials for a solid year. I'll try again, perhaps tonight.

[fiendz666]

Called retention 2 days ago and was offered a $100 credit and 4 months free HD programming for 4 months. Didn't accept that offer.

Called a second time today and was offered the HR20 for $299 and offered a $175credit, 6 months free showtime, and 4 months free HD programming.
This time I mentioned that a "friend" of mine received the HR20 for the $19.95 S&H. The CSR told me she will put me on hold for 3 to 4 minutes. She came back and said that my account was fairly new (February 2006) and that was the best they can offer and that was "above and beyond" what they could offer me.

Any ideas on how I can make this deal a little sweeter?

Thanks!!

[Calebrot]

Called a second time today and was offered the HR20 for $299 and offered a $175credit, 6 months free showtime, and 4 months free HD programming.

Any ideas on how I can make this deal a little sweeter?

Thanks!!

Honestly given that you are only a customer for going on 8 months probably not, you've been offered it for around $12.

$299-$175=$124
Showtime for six months is $72 at $12 a month $124-$72=$52,
HD Free for 4 months at $9.99 is $39.96 so $52-39.96 is $12.04.

Along with the taxes you won't be charged on the Showtime and HD for free will way outnumber the $12.04. I hope you had them mark your account because that is a sweet deal given your length of time being a customer and I hope you can get it when you call a third time. Those of us that got it for the shipping charge have been with DTV for awhile, I've been with them for ten years with NFL ST.

[fiendz666]

Honestly given that you are only a customer for going on 8 months probably not, you've been offered it for around $12.

$299-$175=$124
Showtime for six months is $72 at $12 a month $124-$72=$52,
HD Free for 4 months at $9.99 is $39.96 so $52-39.96 is $12.04.



Calebrot,

I never even thought of it that way. Now that I saw the numbers the way you put them, it was already a sweet deal.

Thanks for the breakdown.

[Longhorn92]

The installers called me yesterday evening and informed me that they couldn't do an install today. They say they are out of HR20's. An automated system had called Thursday reminding me of the install, but guess it isn't hooked up to look at inventory before it calls. They hope to get more soon but not sure when. Setup a new install for 10/23. OUCH!!!! That is a LONG time to have to wait for these receivers. He said if the got them in earlier than that they'd call me and set something up sooner. I was sure hoping to catch the Texas - OU game in High Def today. :( Hook'em Horns!!!!!!!!!!

[uteotw]

The installers called me yesterday evening and informed me that they couldn't do an install today. They say they are out of HR20's. An automated system had called Thursday reminding me of the install, but guess it isn't hooked up to look at inventory before it calls. They hope to get more soon but not sure when. Setup a new install for 10/23. OUCH!!!! That is a LONG time to have to wait for these receivers. He said if the got them in earlier than that they'd call me and set something up sooner.

EXACT same thing happened to me on 9/28. They called at the last minute to say they had no inventory and weren't coming, giving me a new date of 10/24 (OUCH). I got a decent guy and he gave me their local number and told me to call in the following week to get a new date, which I did and got 10/12. I recommend you try the same and not wait for them to call you (you should be able to at least get the dispatch number from D*).

As for the deal I got, it was free HR20, free install, no "shipping," and 4 mo. free HD programming. I just have TCPlus and 2 receivers, no HBO, no NFL. A co-worker got $99 and his normal monthly bill is about $40 more than mine, so it may be in large part who get on the phone and in what mood. No idea really, but I ain't complainin'...

[directvfreak]

Got mine for $99 plus a 12 month $10 credit. I'm happy.

[NCEarlb]

I just got off the phone with DJ @ retention and he did a great job for me. I got an upgrade to the HR20 for $19.95(actually it was a bit cheaper then that). He gave me the HR20 with the new dish and will move my standard DVR to the bedroom. It was the third call today and it started with making sure I was back to getting a paper bill. Now I just have to wait two weeks and hope they can install it and all goes well on 10/21.
It is really CSR roulette cause DJ told me with my history I should not have any problem getting the upgrade for free. I do not know why the others quoted me everything from $299 with no credits to $99 with no credits.

Here is a breakdown of my order:
Swap Relocate DVR IRD
$0.00 1 $0.00

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

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

Standard Professional Install
$0.00 1 $0.00

Handling
$19.95 1 $19.95

Plus the 4 month HD free, so I do not think I could ask for anymore.

Earl

[yamaham]

Made my second call, got the deal I was looking for. HR20, dish, install (don't need switch) $299, $150 instant credit, $10 credit 12 months($120), Free HD four months ($40), move SD DVR to bedroom. Was also offered HBO and Cinemax bundle for $11 for 3 months but declined.

Funny, first call took about 40 minutes and didn't make it happen, though we had a nice talk about past and future satellite programming. Second call took maybe 10 minutes, I just asked for it flat out.

Honey > Vinegar.

[thumperr]

HR20 at Best Buy for for $299.
Installed myself this afternoon. 2 hours.
No dealing with D* installers - Priceless

some times you get what you pay for.

[Longhorn92]

EXACT same thing happened to me on 9/28. They called at the last minute to say they had no inventory and weren't coming, giving me a new date of 10/24 (OUCH). I got a decent guy and he gave me their local number and told me to call in the following week to get a new date, which I did and got 10/12. I recommend you try the same and not wait for them to call you (you should be able to at least get the dispatch number from D\

I'll call tomorrow. Maybe I can move my date up too. Thanks!!

[HDTVsportsfan]

some times you get what you pay for.

With respect.....You "ALWAYS" get what you pay for.

[94wolfpack]

Are these deals for people who currently have an HD package and HD receiver?

I have been with DTV since 2001 and have been a good paying customer. I have the R15 and HDVR2, HBO, and NFL ST.

I just called and the best offer I got was $199 and 4mos free HD. I have not talked to retention yet.

[LameLefty]

My deal was free, totally. No charges to a credit card and no programming credits to make up for it. I currently have two ~5 year old Series 1 DirecTivos and three standard non-DVR receivers. I've been a sub with NFLST since '97.

[Mindhaz]

After reading these forums, I discovered HD locals were available in Nashville around the first week of September, and I found boxes available at Best Buy. I called DirecTv to see if I could get a better deal and they weren't selling them, only BB.

A week or so later (9/13), I received an e-mail from DTV offering me a box for $299. I ordered one. Installation was set for Saturday 9/23 from 1-5. Installer calls at 4:15 on his way. He arrives at 4:50 and at 5:00 it starts storming. Appointment cancelled due to rain. No big deal. My HR20 was at my house, but they wouldn't leave the equipment. Sait it was against DTV policy. I called DTV install service to reschedule, they say might be able to next Saturday, but no guarantee. I have less than 50% getting DTV to show when I have an appointment. So I reschedule for Saturday 10/7 from 8-12 (didn't want the late afternoon rain problem again). I must have talked to 10 people complaining about the wait time trying in vain to get an earlier appointment but was unsuccessful. I did get about $60 in credit.

I find out here that people are getting "swaps" for $99 even though they really aren't swaps at all. So I call DTV back and cancel the $299 and get the $99 price. Same date and time for appt. On 10/5 I get my DTV bill and while online to pay, I just check on my installation date. It says "not scheduled) so I call DTV. They assure me that I am getting installed as planned on 10/7.

So 10/7 rolls around. I wait from 8-12 with no word from DTV, so I call. I am on hold for 20 minutes, talk to a CSR and accidentally disconnected when I ask for an english speaking CSR. So I call back. 20 minutes later I am talking with a good CSR and she calls Install. I get conferenced in. The first words I hear from the install service are "we are out of HR20s" so we blew off your installation. They could have called me. CSR was apologizes repeatedly, but I am told that there will be no equipement available until 10/21. So now I get a bit mad. I ask to be transferred to retention.

I talk to the lady in retention. BTW, these people are great. I think they could fire everyone else. If all CSR's were "retention specialists", DTV might be a great company. I explain to her my perils and that it shouldn't take 5 weeks to get a box installed. She explains the popularity of the units, but I remind her that I ordered and paid for the unit the 1st day they were available from DTV in my area. I paid for the box, they should have held it. I tell here the main reason I want a new HR20 is because of the audio dropout problem on my HR10-250. I'm still stuck at the 3.1.5 software and it would be nice to watch the $349 Sunday Ticket without the sound cutting out every 20 seconds or so. She did give me free service from the time of my 1st appt 9/27 until my 3rd appt 10/21 and a credit for the Superfan. I think my time is more valuable than that, but they can only do so much.

In my area, DirecTv has the best service. Cable goes out too often and is too expensive for multiple DVR's or digital outlets and I don't personally know anyone happy with Dish. DirecTv has decent customer service if you find the right CSR or call retention directly. DTV installers I have seen in the Nashville area are poor. I don't know whose fault that is. Either DTV pays for cheap instals or the installer is just sticking it to the customer at DTVs expense.

We'll see what happens on 10/21...

Jeremy

[LameLefty]

Hey Mindhaz/Jeremy - we're in the same town! :)

Yeah, installers blew me off yesterday. I haven't seen any HR20s in stock around while I've been looking (only the last week or two) or I'd go get one myself. Now I'm rescheduled for 10/21. I'm not holding my breath. I'm gonna call this afternoon and complain that I wasn't called or informed of the stock shortage either. I had to call THEM to find out I was cancelled.

[feeth]

Are these deals for people who currently have an HD package and HD receiver?

I have been with DTV since 2001 and have been a good paying customer. I have the R15 and HDVR2, HBO, and NFL ST.

I just called and the best offer I got was $199 and 4mos free HD. I have not talked to retention yet.

You got to talk to retention if you want to get anything done, IMO.

[feeth]

Here is what I did (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=66030) They are swaping me one of my R-15s and my Hd receiver (MPEG4) for a HR-20. They will credit me $200 on the first months bill and then charge me the $200 split up over the next 3 months. So I am happy to get this for free. I have been with them for about 6 weeks.

The install is this sunday.

The installer called me yesterday and said one of his HR-20s was bad on an earlier install, so they came this am and did the install. I already had the 5LNB Dish, so took about 45 mins. The deal that I had made with retention was to swap my R-15 and H20 for the HR20 and a standard receiver. The installer showed me the order and it did not have a standard receiver on it.

So I called retention back, told the kind gentleman what happened. He said we will ship you a standard receiver. I asked his if it would be easier for me to keep the H20, he said yes. :D

Somebody up there does love me! :grin:

[ttiger72]

Couple of questions. First what is the customer retention number? What can I expect to pay for the HR20, currently have to DTivos and a 3LNB dish. Have been with DT for 2 years and am NFL Ticket subscriber. I have never done an upgrade of equipment.....

So just called and got a CSR who gave me nothing but the std 299.99 price, and that wasn't installation either!!!
Any help on what to tell these guys to get the credit or get the lower prices?

Ok called back got the 199.99 price broken up over 3 mths...so not too bad, but not free either. 2 yr committment and 4mths free HD package. Bad thing is in the Chicago area install is almost a month out =(

[Tike1994]

So far I haven't paid a penny. I "threatened" to leave DTV in June and they gave me HR10-250 and triple LNB dish for free since they didn't know what the upgrade cost or timetable for the HR20 was going to be. I called about 2 weeks ago and the HR20 was available in Chicago and they upgraded me for free. The installation date was two weeks out and I got it installed last week with the 5 LNB dish. The installers were running extremely late and said the DTV had them way overbooked. Whole install took a little over 2 hours. I did get to keep my HR10-250 for bedroom. Once I get an HDTV set for bedroom I hope to be able to upgrade to another HR20 for free again.

[Wildcat]

Finally got them to give me a 5LNB dish, Multiswitch, and HR20...that was a phone call on 9/8/06, and they scheduled me for install on 10/1....and Ironwood cancelled...re-scheduled for Wednesday 10/4...cancelled....rescheduled for today, and he showed up.

My first DVR! I'm very happy! Now I just need them to activate OTA so I can get my locals...and locals in HD on this TV.

[feeth]

Couple of questions. First what is the customer retention number? What can I expect to pay for the HR20, currently have to DTivos and a 3LNB dish. Have been with DT for 2 years and am NFL Ticket subscriber. I have never done an upgrade of equipment.....

So just called and got a CSR who gave me nothing but the std 299.99 price, and that wasn't installation either!!!
Any help on what to tell these guys to get the credit or get the lower prices?

Ok called back got the 199.99 price broken up over 3 mths...so not too bad, but not free either. 2 yr committment and 4mths free HD package. Bad thing is in the Chicago area install is almost a month out =(

800-824-9081

[DanoP]

Couple of questions. First what is the customer retention number? What can I expect to pay for the HR20, currently have to DTivos and a 3LNB dish. Have been with DT for 2 years and am NFL Ticket subscriber. I have never done an upgrade of equipment.....

So just called and got a CSR who gave me nothing but the std 299.99 price, and that wasn't installation either!!!
Any help on what to tell these guys to get the credit or get the lower prices?

Ok called back got the 199.99 price broken up over 3 mths...so not too bad, but not free either. 2 yr committment and 4mths free HD package. Bad thing is in the Chicago area install is almost a month out =(

They canceled me twice in the past couple of weeks and the earliest reschedule they had was two weeks from now. But since they canceled twice on me I don't have any confidence on a third appointment. No doubt there are regional supply issues which accounted for the bad luck.

Spoke to customer retention today. Been a customer for almost ten years and the best they could do was a $10/month credit for 12 months. I thought that was weak especially considering my experience with their two cancellations. DirecTV was going to charge $200 for the hr20....that was after I bargained them down from $300. So, I'm finished with DirecTV as of Wednesday....that's when the Dish people will install their HD DVR vip622 and let me have it for free along with free installation. Free premium movie channel for three months and no activation fee.

[letsjet]

I have been a DTV sub. for 5 years on this account. I had two std. recievers w/ TotalCP and locals.

I had to call retention 4 times. The last time I got a very friendly girl that worked out this deal:

HR20
Zinwell
AT-9
R15 ?(std. dvr)
Install w/ the two recvrs relocates

all for $0

She provided a $20 credit for 12 months and 4 months of HD for free. Though, the $20/month converted to $10/month on my account and I can't seem to get her back to get it correct.

Also added NFLST for $69 but it included all channels free for four months.


Install date 1: Installer arrives w/o zinwell - I sent him away

Install date 2: Installer arrives high on something and gets creative about addition charges regarding "wall pulls" - I sent him away

Install date 3: Installer arrives w/ all equipment and no "extra curicular activity". He looked over the job and provided a reasonable fee for a wall pull and I had him do the install. He did the dish, wall pulls, relocates, DVRs, and remote setup w/o a hitch. So all is now done......... and done right.

I was in no hurry and didn't care about the delays to send these unprofessional installers away. Maybe more should do it so they get rid of the poor performers.

Also: the HR-20 is on a Samsung HLS-7178 connect via HDMI with no issues other then a bit of overscan

[bluedogok]

I just got off the phone with retention 5 minutes ago (the number provided above), I was looking to add HD to my existing service that I have had since 4/99.

I ordered the HR-20, 6x8 multiswitch and AT9 dish for the 19.99 handling charge. I also added Sunday Ticket after he gave me the price for the HD equipment and threw in the Superfan for the rest of the season at no charge. I already had the NHL and MLB packages. The earliest install date was 10/24 but I scheduled for 10/27. We will see if everything comes/installed as requested.

Now I get to require my house, which I have been wanting to do anyway to get rid of the wiring on the house and the rear channel speakers inside. This is wiring for satellite, antenna, telephone and speakers in the living room. I am setting it up so all they have to do is install the dish and hook up the multiswitch. This way I will have an old receiver and new HD-DVR in the living room for both TV's, the Tivo in the bedroom and the other old receiver in the office.

Now I just have to wait almost 3 weeks.....oh well, at least the OTA antenna is working well. Thanks to everyone for the info on here.

[Mindhaz]

Yeah, installers blew me off yesterday. I haven't seen any HR20s in stock around while I've been looking (only the last week or two) or I'd go get one myself. Now I'm rescheduled for 10/21. I'm not holding my breath. I'm gonna call this afternoon and complain that I wasn't called or informed of the stock shortage either. I had to call THEM to find out I was cancelled.

I will be calling them the Friday before and on the hour starting at 6am on Saturday... I have better things to do.

I'm a bit nervous about the install. I've been with DTV for 10 years and always done my own because my cabling is quite extensive and I'm a little picky. I do need 3 more drops in the house since I can't use my diplexers anymore. They've told me I can't put the new heavier dish on my eave either. That means new cabling from the dish to my multiswitch location. I'd offer to run this myself, but since I'm no longer competent in the eyes of DTV, I'll let the installer play with the spiders under the house. Rockvale is famous for its black widow population.

Maybe I can just get the guy to drop the boxes in my living room, ask him to grab something out of his truck and lock him out of the house. Eventually he will have to leave. Isn't half the fun of new toys hooking them up?

Anyway... if I have a problem, I'll just call retention. They rock. My next request will be 2 new boxes for the price of 1.

[TonySCV]

Hi Gang:

I wanted to post my current setup, and ask for advice as to what to request from retention in terms of an acceptable deal.

I've been a DirecTV customer since 1995 - back in the days of USSB.

I have four HR10-250's in the house presently - all purchased units. I don't really want to convert all of them to HR20's yet - just one or maybe two for now. Preferably one.

I have a Spaun SMS 5802 NF multiswitch that I assume will no longer work with the new 5-LNB dish, however if it could work I'd certainly prefer keeping it as it's already installed and working. If I have to dump it, then which should I request? I need 8 outputs. There are presently 4 wires running from the dish to a central closet.

I have a 3LNB dish. I'll obviously need a 5LNB dish. I'm in the LA market.

Thanks in advance! :)

- T

[mangust]

I've been with DirecTV for over two years. No extra subscriptions, just Total Choice Plus and two Tivos. I got a 50" plasma on 9/1 so I called retention to see what they could offer.
After about half-an-hour of going back-and-forth I was offered a free H10-250 but the CSR representative was not sure about the extra expences for the new dish, etc. I wrote DirecTV an email describing what competition has to offer in the area and a couple of days later they called me. In the end I had to call them back again on 9/12 when HR20 became available and here is what I got:


Free HR20-700
Free AT-9 dish
Free four month subscription to HD package
Subscription commitment for two years
Shipping and handling fee of $19.95 refunded


The install was performed on 9/30 and took about three hours.

[cybrsurfer]

I cut and paste the following from DirecTV:

Customers can receive local HD channels by obtaining DIRECTV's H20 HD receiver or its new HR20 DIRECTV Plus HD DVR, which has the ability to record up to 50 hours of programming in the new MPEG4 transmission standard. DIRECTV is offering new customers who purchase a DIRECTV HD or HD DVR receiver a $100 mail-in rebate. (Limit one rebate per customer.) Existing customers are eligible for a $99 upgrade to the new H20 receiver and dish, plus $99 for each additional HD receiver.

http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=127160&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=914114&highlight=

[jcegas]

Beware with the retention number, they are tracking your call and they will keep offering the same deal 199.99 for the box and 4 months HD for the update.

So I will wait until the next year or appears a new offer to me. I will not pay $200 for be a tester of a buggy box.

JCEGAS

[TonySCV]

Hi Gang:

I wanted to post my current setup, and ask for advice as to what to request from retention in terms of an acceptable deal.

I've been a DirecTV customer since 1995 - back in the days of USSB.

I have four HR10-250's in the house presently - all purchased units. I don't really want to convert all of them to HR20's yet - just one or maybe two for now. Preferably one.

I have a Spaun SMS 5802 NF multiswitch that I assume will no longer work with the new 5-LNB dish, however if it could work I'd certainly prefer keeping it as it's already installed and working. If I have to dump it, then which should I request? I need 8 outputs. There are presently 4 wires running from the dish to a central closet.

I have a 3LNB dish. I'll obviously need a 5LNB dish. I'm in the LA market.

Thanks in advance! :)

- T

I'll respond to my own query :)

DirecTV handled my situation quite well - 2 "free" HR20's (charge but then a credit to my account for the full amount), new AT9 dish, new multiswitch. I get to keep (and then sell) the 2 HR10-250 boxes they will be "swapping".

Happy as a clam. Install scheduled for 11/3 due to backorder of units.

- T

[absolutbob]

They canceled me twice in the past couple of weeks and the earliest reschedule they had was two weeks from now. But since they canceled twice on me I don't have any confidence on a third appointment. No doubt there are regional supply issues which accounted for the bad luck.

Same thing happened to me in Dallas. My second appointment was tomorrow, but they cancelled because they didn't have an HR20 in stock. According to them, the earliest they'll have some back in stock is October 23.:eek2:

[DanoP]

I cut and paste the following from DirecTV:

Existing customers are eligible for a $99 upgrade to the new H20 receiver and dish, plus $99 for each additional HD receiver.

http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=127160&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=914114&highlight=

For the HR20 however, they are asking $299 right off the bat. Before haggling.

[bluedogok]

Same thing happened to me in Dallas. My second appointment was tomorrow, but they cancelled because they didn't have an HR20 in stock. According to them, the earliest they'll have some back in stock is October 23.:eek2:
October 24 was the earliest that I could schedule an install here in Austin, so maybe that was why. My scheduled date is the 27th.

[Hoxxx]

Well my deal is 99.95 for the HR20. I get to keep the HR10 till they turn it off. I am returning a D11. I have only been a sub since April so I felt this was a fair deal. I have to wait till 11.11.06 for the install which is stupid to me. all I just need to swap IRD's. but the CSR wouldnt budge stating that is the only choice in his order menu. oh well at least I am in the loop.
I am anxious to try a 750 eSATA external drive on this unit.

:icon_da:

[cadjoe]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but why purchase an HR20 and then have to pay the $5.99 a month for the 2nd box....


when you can LEASE an HR20 for $5.99 and not have to pay the 2nd box fee, while gaining the benefits of a lease if there are any hardware problems.


At least this is how I understand the lease from sales; am I wrong here?


Has anyone seen the guy selling how to get an HR20 for $29 on eBay? He's selling INFO on what to tell retention.

[yamaham]

Has anyone seen the guy selling how to get an HR20 for $29 on eBay? He's selling INFO on what to tell retention.

I used the free information here to get mine for $29 less than that. :lol:

[Mockenrue]

My deal was free HR20, installation, and shipping (they put a charge and equal credit on my account). They also threw in $50 credit and $10 off for the next six months. Quite a difference from the HR10 that I paid a grand for when it first came out 3 years ago. At least I get to keep that one.

One caution: be SURE to emphasize HR20. I did that several times when placing my order, and they still didn't get it right. When the installer showed up, his work order called for the non-DVR version. He had an HR20 on his truck but couldn't install it until I called up retention and had them resubmit the order with the right unit.

[loysjohn]

I called retention today; I explained that I bought a HR10-250 last year and since the Charlotte market stations are now available via HD from DirecTv, what deal could I get for a new HR20. The CSR offered the $99 upgrade deal including installation for the HR20 and wouldn't include any other offers (even after mentioning my A-list status FWIW). I was ready to go ahead and order it anyway but backed out when she explained that I wouldn't get to keep my HR10--if I wanted to do so, the upgrade cost would be $299. I mentioned to her that I knew of several folks that were able to keep their old HD-DVRs with the $99 deal. She replied "You can't always believe what you see on the internet!":eek2: .

Sigh; guess it's time to play retention CSR roulette.

[LameLefty]

She replied "You can't always believe what you see on the internet!":eek2: .

Sigh; guess it's time to play retention CSR roulette.

Jeez louise, what a load. I'm not replacing ANY HD equipment but I'm getting the stupid thing totally free (if they ever show back up in-stock with the installer here). And yes, I got that deal through calling Retention. Maybe being a sub since '97 helps, I don't know.

[paulman182]

Folks, Don't mention this forum! Don't mention the internet!

Tell them you'd like to get into HD but the price is too steep, and can she HELP you.

If that doesn't work, go from there, but it worked great for me.

[Longhorn92]

I decided to call Retension to see about the inventory on the HR20's to see if I could get my rescheduled install moved up. The gave me an 877 number for the install group. Called them, they gave me a local Dallas number to call. The Dallas office told me that they were just hopeful to get boxes in by the my install date of 10/23. Guess I should cross my fingers. Retension did offer to give me 4 months of HD free for my troubles. :-)

[dloftis]

Just got off the phone w/ movers connection and customer retention...

Setup a move for this saturday... during this install they'll be installing an AT9 (currently have a Phase III) and bringing out two HR20s and an R15.

The R15 is free of charge, no hassle.
The HR20s are $99 each, with two $99 service credits... so effectively free.

I currently have one HR10-250 and an H20 (as well as a SAT-T60 and a couple of standard receivers)... I asked to upgrade the two HD boxes (HR10 and H20) to the HR20... no problem.

Oh... and I get to keep everything, as well.

Only problem I have is that movers connection said the free install only included 125 feet of wire. I find that rather humorous considering they'll be installing a new dish, two multiswitches, 5 dual tuner DVRs, and 2 standard tuners.

Of course, I don't really intend to use all of those receivers, and there's already wire for almost all of it... but still. To say they'll only provide 125 feet of wire is ridiculous. They'll use more than that just for the runs from the dish to the multiswitch.

[bbchurch]

Been a customer now since 1997 except for 8 months I lived in an apartment. Account now has been active since 1999.
I called the retention line twice.
First time was told standard 299 offer. Wouldn't even give me new dish because locals are not available in HD yet.
Said no thanks.
Second call told 299 ask about my contract length remaining and I have 13 months remaining. Funny I thought I signed a 12 month not 24 month contract.
He asked why I was needing to know that information. I said well you are wanting 300 bucks for the equipment and I could go to dish for a whole lot less. He ask if I would tell him how much it was going to be. (what to do what to do) well i did look and dish was wanting 199 for the HD DVR with a 50 off credit. So I though well I will tell him what it really is and see if they will counter offer. Well he said I will match there 150 and give you the new dish and throw in 4 months free service on HD package. I asked if he could bill my account and he said credit card only is all they are allowing with the popularity of this reciever. So they want me to pay 328 dollars and get the rest in an account credit. I told him I will think about it and he said I will note your account so you can get the same deal when you call back. Great so now I will not be able to negotiate anymore. Right?
Man I was hoping for something a little more along the lines of FREE!
Also both times I was told that 299 was a great deal as this reciever was $700 when it first came out.
Anybody got any suggestions?
I only have a R15 right now this would be my first HD reciever.

[cybrsurfer]

Been a customer now since 1997 except for 8 months I lived in an apartment. Account now has been active since 1999.
I called the retention line twice.
First time was told standard 299 offer. Wouldn't even give me new dish because locals are not available in HD yet.
Said no thanks.
Second call told 299 ask about my contract length remaining and I have 13 months remaining. Funny I thought I signed a 12 month not 24 month contract.
He asked why I was needing to know that information. I said well you are wanting 300 bucks for the equipment and I could go to dish for a whole lot less. He ask if I would tell him how much it was going to be. (what to do what to do) well i did look and dish was wanting 199 for the HD DVR with a 50 off credit. So I though well I will tell him what it really is and see if they will counter offer. Well he said I will match there 150 and give you the new dish and throw in 4 months free service on HD package. I asked if he could bill my account and he said credit card only is all they are allowing with the popularity of this reciever. So they want me to pay 328 dollars and get the rest in an account credit. I told him I will think about it and he said I will note your account so you can get the same deal when you call back. Great so now I will not be able to negotiate anymore. Right?
Man I was hoping for something a little more along the lines of FREE!
Also both times I was told that 299 was a great deal as this reciever was $700 when it first came out.
Anybody got any suggestions?
I only have a R15 right now this would be my first HD reciever.

I signed up with DirecTV June 5th and it was installed June 6 2006. Initially it was only one set with an H20. Didn't cost me anything. Free H20 Free AT-9, 6 months free HD programming, 1st month free of programming, and a free portable DVD player with widescreen.
On September 15, installer returned to install 2 HR20's (to upgrade my HR10-250) which I payed $99.00 + $19.95 handling for a total of $118.95, on top of that I'm getting a $20.00 credit per month for 12 months for equipment credits. In addition they extended another 4 months of free HD programming, 3 months free Stars. So I'm real happy considering I'm so new. I'm not trying to upset you or brag, but want you to know what's been offered.:grin:

[Calebrot]

Been a customer now since 1997 except for 8 months I lived in an apartment. Account now has been active since 1999.
I called the retention line twice.
First time was told standard 299 offer. Wouldn't even give me new dish because locals are not available in HD yet.
Said no thanks.
Second call told 299 ask about my contract length remaining and I have 13 months remaining. Funny I thought I signed a 12 month not 24 month contract.
He asked why I was needing to know that information. I said well you are wanting 300 bucks for the equipment and I could go to dish for a whole lot less. He ask if I would tell him how much it was going to be. (what to do what to do) well i did look and dish was wanting 199 for the HD DVR with a 50 off credit. So I though well I will tell him what it really is and see if they will counter offer. Well he said I will match there 150 and give you the new dish and throw in 4 months free service on HD package. I asked if he could bill my account and he said credit card only is all they are allowing with the popularity of this reciever. So they want me to pay 328 dollars and get the rest in an account credit. I told him I will think about it and he said I will note your account so you can get the same deal when you call back. Great so now I will not be able to negotiate anymore. Right?
Man I was hoping for something a little more along the lines of FREE!
Also both times I was told that 299 was a great deal as this reciever was $700 when it first came out.
Anybody got any suggestions?
I only have a R15 right now this would be my first HD reciever.


It seems like over the past month it has become hard and harder, I guess someone cracked the whip at DTV. Just a suggestion, but call Dish and find out if they have any dish switching specials to get you over to them, and then call back retention and inquire about the commitment, because how I understood the commitment is that if you return the equipment (R15) within a certain amount of days, you can break your commitment and not be charged for the unit. Maybe I'm wrong, but you can act like you really are going to leave to go to Dish and see if that pushes them further. It also seems like the retention CSR's are keeping a good record of the calls now.

[bluedogok]

I knew someone who mentioned that his wife wouldn't go for the cost of the D* DVR after they quoted him the $299 price even though they have been with them since 2004. He said "I guess I am off to Time Warner" and they changed their price to the $19.99 handling fee only.

I didn't even have to go there with my one call.

[boomertsfx]

The deal I got was $150 + $19.95 handling, minus $10/month for a year and 4 free months of HD package... so all in all, it looks to be I'll be paying $10 after all credits.

[jbart1965]

First time poster. Been reading this site awhile.

Here's what I got:

$19.95 for the cost of one HR20.
4 months free of HD programming
No charge for DVR service ($6) for 6 months
$10 off my monthly $12 sports for six months.

The person I spoke to also would have given me Superfan for free ($100) if I bought the NFL package. I declined and bought the NBA package.

How did I do it? Called regular rep, asked some questions about HD service. Said the price was too high and I was getting offers from Comcast, RCN and Dish Network. I might switch if I couldnt get a better deal. The rep said she couldnt do those things, but she passed me on to someone who could help, likely customer retention.

I told the second woman the same thing. I was gettting an offer from Dish, $100 for an HD box and 10 months free of HD programming. Said I didnt want to leave DirecTV, but I just spent a bundle on an HDTV and could not afford to spend $300 on a HD box.

She quickly said she would see what she could do and made the offers after making sure that I wasn't still going to switch to DISH. She said I was a valued customer and they wanted to keep me. (I already own two regular Tivo DirecTV boxes and have been a customer for 8 years).

That was it. Install on Oct. 21. Took 30 minutes but was well worthwhile.

[amallon]

I'd like to thank everyone on the site for posting the tips in this thread. It's really made things easier when I try to navigate through DirecTV's customer support. I just called retention and was given the following deal:

-Free HR20-700
-Free installation
-3 months free DVR service

This is great and exactly what I'm looking for, the only catches are that it would be a leased unit and I would have to agree to a 2 year commitment. I don't really care whether the unit's leased, since they said I could keep my HR10-250, but the two year contract is almost a deal breaker. Signing extended contracts is a pet peeve of mine.

Are most people here getting the deals with a two-year contract or are you upgrading with no commitment? I just want to know how flexible DirecTV is on the contract before I call them back.

[NCEarlb]

I'd like to thank everyone on the site for posting the tips in this thread. It's really made things easier when I try to navigate through DirecTV's customer support. I just called retention and was given the following deal:

-Free HR20-700
-Free installation
-3 months free DVR service

This is great and exactly what I'm looking for, the only catches are that it would be a leased unit and I would have to agree to a 2 year commitment. I don't really care whether the unit's leased, since they said I could keep my HR10-250, but the two year contract is almost a deal breaker. Signing extended contracts is a pet peeve of mine.

Are most people here getting the deals with a two-year contract or are you upgrading with no commitment? I just want to know how flexible DirecTV is on the contract before I call them back.

I was given a two year contract but only a one year HD contract. I think that is the way D* gets their money back.

Earl

[foilingfool]

All,

I have been with DirecTv since 97, and am an "A" list customer (for whatever that is worth). Since so many folks are having trouble getting HR20 units due to stock availability, I took a quick look locally. I was able to find a CircuitCity in my area that still has a couple in stock. I am thinking about buying one, and asking D* for a credit to defray the cost when I call to activate the unit. Any thoughts on whether they would comply?? It seems like this is my only choice unless I want to place the order directly with D* and wait until after Thanksgiving to actually get the unit :(

Thanks,
Tom

[jayknitter]

I am thinking about buying one, and asking D* for a credit to defray the cost when I call to activate the unit. Any thoughts on whether they would comply??

I have an HR20 on order, but called to see if they would do what you mentioned (because of the wait) and they said that if I could find one they would credit my account the $320 (even covered tax) for the unit. Good luck! After I got off the phone the local store ran out!!! :mad:

[gamehaus]

i got the hr20 for free and about $30 in service credits for 6m w/ a 2 yr committment. they are coming today to install the new dish. worked out great after having read this thread, thanks everyone.

[magicboy7]

I have had a laundry list of issues with my purchase of the HR-20. I live in the Metro Atlanta Area if that matters to anyone.

Called and talked to retention one night about 3 weeks ago. Was offered the following deal:
- leased HR20 for $199. No Shipping an handling
- $10 off bill for 12 months
- $10 off HBO for 6 months
- Startz pak free for 3 months (offered me Showtime for 6 months for free as an alternative to Starz)
- HD Pak free for 4 months
- $120 in other service credits for crap customer services (keep reading for the whole story)

(basically a total of $253 + $120 = $373 of service credits)

I got the CSR to put this info in my notes (his name was Scott, real nice guy)

- Called Monday morning 10/2 to order. Setup installation for (1-5pm) Sunday 10/8. Was adamant that they include in the order that I would require a 40 foot ladder for the installation. They put it in the notes section.

- Was called at 11:30 am on 10/8 and informed my installer fell off his ladder and would not be showing up. I tried to get them to send someone else out and she said they had limited crews on Sunday so they could not send someone, but she did reschedule me for Wednesday 10/11 (1-5pm). I called D* to see if they could get the installer to send someone out. They gave me a $20 credit on my account for the missed appointment and put me in the system for next available appointment if an installer was stood up. A guy shows up at 3:00 PM on 10/8... but as you might guess... with no 40 foot ladder. Had to wait for the Wed appointment.

- Took some time off of work to be home for 1-5pm appointment on 10/11. Was called at 3:40 by installer who informed me he just noticed the work order indicated that it required a 40 foot ladder and that he didn't have one. He said he was not coming. He did give me the number to his supervisor. I called his supervisor who was quite rude to me and seemed extremely irritated that an installer gave out his cell number. After some arguing over their level of service and competence, he informed me that he would "fit me in" if possible. Needless to say no one showed up and no one called to reschedule.

- around 6:00 PM same day, I called D* and had to go through my story about 3 times to finally get to a manager. The best she could muster was "sorry for your inconvenience." She eventually sent me to another department to verify my order details. This person put me on hold and ended up hanging up on me. They never called back.

- Left the house around 6:45 to get some dinner and cool off from the extreme disappointment and frustration with D*. Called D* back around 8:00 PM with a cooler head. Explained the situation again to a differect CSR. Basically just complained about D* customer service and their chosen installer's lack of concern for my time and money. This CSR empathized with my plight and gave me an additional $100 service credit.

- I called the installer back on 10/12 and setup a new appointment for 10/14 (8-noon) appointment.

If they stand me up or show up with the wrong equipment this time, I am cancelling my order and may leave D*

Assuming things go smoothly on Saturday, I would say I got a decent "deal." Granted I was massivly inconvenienced to get it.

UPDATE: Installer stood me up again on Saturday... Rescheduled my installation with a different installation company. The new company is called DCI and they seem to be a much more professional organization.

UPDATE 2: DCI showed us as promised Monday morning and installed the HUGE 5-LNB dish. So far no problems with HR20. It's a little loud and I am frustrated that it has no RF out. My other Hughes SD Tivos are looped back into the whole house video network so I can watch them in any room. Would be nice to be able to do that with the HR20. Oh well... its a small drawback.

[Kapeman]

I have called retention a couple of times trying to get a deal on the HR20 and can't get them to budge on the price. I have been a D* customer since 2001 and was them from 1998 to 2000.
I don't have any payment issues or problems.

I mentioned my local cable company (Charter) having deals on HD DVRs and have never mentioned the Web or any forums.

I guess I don't subcribe to an expensive enough package to get any deals.


How many calls to retention have to be made to get lucky? Should I keep trying?

Thanks!

edit: I called again for the heck of it and they had noted where I mentioned that Charter would give me the DVR.
They gave me a $100 credit and $10 off a month for 12 months and 4 months of the HD package for free.

It isn't the deal of the century, but it was good enough for me. Plus my install is scheduled for Monday the 16th. I just hope the local installers have the HR20 in stock!

[Neil Derryberry]

I just ordered as a new customer direct w/d*.. I had D* about 5 years ago and that didn't come up at all.

$212.93 for hr20 after tax
$0 install - 5lnb dish and all
$10 off for 15 months.. offer ends Sunday on that
free Ipod Shuffle

I asked for 11/1 - the day I move in to my new place. She said no problems there.. just signed up for directv online and it doesn't show that install date. I'll keep watching that.

[donwmack]

I just called and am happy. I have been a customer with D for 1 year.

2 HR20's
5 LNB dish
"VIP install" - versus what I don't know
6 months showtime
HBO for $2/month
$10 credit for next 12 months
$298 - net $178

I keep my old 10-250 and dvr unit.

[surfbird]

well guys, I am still awed & surprised the deals all of you have gotten..

not meaning that to sound sarcastic (promise) but I am starting to think that various call ctr have different things they are able to do. all I know, is my system doesn't allow me to sell the upgrade price for the hr20 for $99 but cis (cust installation support) can?? so that was a surprise for me to learn their capabilites of better prices. The only time I can say I gave away this ird was when I had a supervisor credit the difference to make it completely free.. I just can't do it even if I wanted to.. but hey.. great job guys.. I am at least checking out & seeing buggy things I can help troubleshoot later.. (yep, unfortunately, trained in all those levels so I have to ts this hr20 even though I don't know much about it.. Main reason I want one at home so I can get familiar w/some of its quirks..

oh.. note.. if the hr10-250 gets sick.. right now it is not being replaced w/the new hr20 (notice came out 10-12 in case other reps out there didn't read it) it is in our "what's new" notices..

[Alan Gordon]

Folks, Don't mention this forum! Don't mention the internet!

A month ago whenever I contacted DirecTV about trying to get the HR20, I mentioned that I knew some people who were getting good deals for the HR20, and the guy asked me if I was referring to SatellitesGuys.us or TiVoCommunity.com. I lied, but I don't think he believed me anyway...

~Alan

[jmferraiolo]

Called customer retention ; I've been a customer since 01 and have gotten the NFL Sunday Ticket, NBA League Pass, and have ordered many PPV boxing fights over the years.

Best I could get was the HR-20 for $49. I didn't really press the issue or threaten to leave, but I probably should have. I don't think you get further by sweet talking them here. The first price she offered me was $99 and when I hemmed and hawed on it she lowered it to 49. But she would not go to what I was really looking for : free. I get the 4 months of the HD package free, but that's standard. I wasn't able to swing Superfan for free either.

Kind of a raw deal I guess, but I did save 250 on the receiver. With the reports from this forum I was kind of hoping for more.

[LarryInAz]

...Installer responds that he's not coming back because he doesn't have the 6X8 multiswitch. (luckily, I read that the 5lnb dish (AT9)will work with the 4x8, however some limitations) ...

EDIT: Installer did come back with the 6X8 and installed HR20. I am very greatful for finding this site, cause without it I would have had to pay $99-$399 for HR20

Just curious what limitations a 4x8 switch would be?
FWIW, I've been using the HR20 for the last few weeks in a "crippled" fashion i.e. 3-LNB dish. Today the installer came out and installed a 5-LNB dish and the HR20 does not work, It gets stuck at "acquiring guide data..." I was able to reset the machine to think it's connected to a 3-LNB and use it again in the "crippled" way - Directv says I must have have a bad HR20 and their sending me a replacement unit. I'm wondering if maybe the HR20 is ok and if it needs the 6x8 multi-switch? :confused:

[slapshot1959]

Just struck this deal with them. 99 is the best they could do. Actually talked with the installation dept instead of customer retention as I had always called them to no avail,(they would never budge below 199),so decided to try something different. Told her I wanted some programming credits to help out with the cost and she said she couldn't do that on her end but she transferred me to another rep (not retention), who gladly gave me $10 off TC+ for 12 months,6 Mos. free Showtime,3 Mos free Starz, and $5 off HD pack for 6 months.Not super,but not bad. Happy with it. I'm thinking retention is not the way to the best deal.

Curiously though,I wanted only one HR20,but she said I had to take 3 of them (at $99 ea.) to change out all my other MPEG 2 Rcvrs..The system wouldn't let her do only one. I told her I couldn't afford all three right now,so I said couldn't she deactivate the other two,order the single HR20,then reactivate them again? She said it might work,and after a few minutes of explaining that I really couldn't afford to replace all three,she agreed to try and it did work. Anyone have a similar experience? I wonder if when she reactivated them though,do they now show up as leased instead of owned? Geez,I should call again.

[surfbird]

Just curious what limitations a 4x8 switch would be?
FWIW, I've been using the HR20 for the last few weeks in a "crippled" fashion i.e. 3-LNB dish. Today the installer came out and installed a 5-LNB dish and the HR20 does not work, It gets stuck at "acquiring guide data..." I was able to reset the machine to think it's connected to a 3-LNB and use it again in the "crippled" way - Directv says I must have have a bad HR20 and their sending me a replacement unit. I'm wondering if maybe the HR20 is ok and if it needs the 6x8 multi-switch? :confused:

I'm wondering if maybe the HR20 is ok and if it needs the 6x8 multi-switch?

YES on ms & maybe on the ird .. (smile, how really knows if this hr20 is ok) the 5lnb dish needs higher frequency band to help run the ka/ku bandwidth.. main reason why issues is occuring. I really feel that the installer or not using these & making things worse for everyone. I knew the wb6x8 is necessary for the 72.5 (2nd dish) & international. so.. if half of these issues could be narrowed down to lnb alignment, dish or general software.. then it would be easier for d* to come up w/routes to resolve for all.. sorry, my thoughts on that.. I am still waiting on mine.. appt rescheduled due to lack of equpmnt then dtv halted emp upgrades.. I've never had a dvr or I guess this one will be a "big adventure" for me..

[LarryInAz]

I may have found a solution (http://www.dbstalk.com/showpost.php?p=685368&postcount=22) to my problem. :coffee Thanks Strejcek!
I did exactly as the poster suggested and went thru the Satellite Setup again only I left the 72.5 and 95 LNB's as not installed and saved the 5-LNB setup, it took less than 2 monutes to get the satellite data and I'm now receiving my local and national HD channels. :icon_da:

Now all I need is for Directv to enable the OTA tuners and I'll have the machine that I paid for. :rolleyes:

[radlynch]

Called retention 10/1 received deal, 199.00 for HR20 received 10.00 a month off bill, 6 months HBO free and free HD programming for 4 months. Installed yesterday appointment was from 1-5pm installer showed at 2:00pm. Installed HR20 new AT9 dish, 6X8 Zinwell multi switch & moved my other TIVO. Installer did a good job. Only thing he used component cable said I should get HDMI, are they that much better. :hurah:

[Basket Case]

Been playing Retention CSR roulette for a few days, and FINALLY got one to agree to waive all charges on an HR20 and AT9 installed (been a customer for 8 years, have NFL pkg, etc.). Just a few observations...

They definately keep track of what you have been offered before.

They are very reluctant to budge on the price because pf the acute shortage of HR20's.

The CSR that finally gave in only did so when I recited chapter and verse of what competitors were offering ... IN DETAIL!

Also, I said I was gonna stay with D* until the end of NFL season, and then do a final evaluation. I did not threaten to quit on the spot. And I was VERY polite.

I think there may be some ranking among the CSR's as to who can allow what level of discount. When I finally got the CSR to agree on the "no charge deal", I was then told they were out of stock, to get a box at BB (I did), and to call back and D* would credit me the $299 plus tax. When I did call back, the retention CSR was very surprised at the deal, and said she would need a supervisor to override because that was above her maximum allowed deal. Hmmmm..... that explains alot!

Anyway, got an install date for 10/23. BTW, with the AT9, they are doing an automatic swap-out of old boxes with the H20.

[BlueSnake]

Called retention 10/1 received deal, 199.00 for HR20 received 10.00 a month off bill, 6 months HBO free and free HD programming for 4 months. Installed yesterday appointment was from 1-5pm installer showed at 2:00pm. Installed HR20 new AT9 dish, 6X8 Zinwell multi switch & moved my other TIVO. Installer did a good job. Only thing he used component cable said I should get HDMI, are they that much better. :hurah:

There is an installation training video on channel 114 during the day for the HR20. On that video it says that the installer must use an HDMI connection if the customer has one on his TV. I would call D* and complain.

[MacDog7970]

I was able to get $99 plus tax, less a $50 crediit on my DirecTV bill. I thought $49 was a pretty good price.

[Slip Jigs]

I'm glad I stumbled on to this forum. I am a returning DTV customer, about 3 months in now. I just bought a HD TV, and took it for granted that I could pretty much swap out my current DVR box with the HD-DVR. Silly me!

Not only is it not an even swap - which I'm still not sure I could do even with the non-DVR HD box, but it seems I can't even place an upgrade order at this time. All I got was the option to join the waiting list with no info on how long that will be. Called customer service a handful of times, and even in spite of different stories they all just directed my back to the website to the waiting list.

I didn't read through all the posts here, but amidst all the stories about ordering, replacements and installation I didn't see any discussion on the waiting list. Has anyone gone though this and reached the point of actually being able to place an order? If so, how long did that take?

[mjb523]

New sat dish, install, move of existing Tivo with wiring to use 2nd input plus HR20 for 19.95. 4 free months of HD package as well. I had to agree to a 2 year contract and the cost of the unit was billed to my account and will be credited back on the next bill.

I was offered this the first time I called to inquire about HD DVRs. When I called back in to take them up on it I was told there is no way I would get that deal. Got transferred to retention, that guy couldn't have cared less. Rather than try to fight with him I called back later and had someone go to their sup to get them to approve the deal.

I am an "A-List customer", so that helped.

[Willis]

I called D* last week and spoke with CSR. Best deal she offered was $99 and I had to return my leased H20. Called today and spoke with Customer Retention rep. She offered $299 (+19.95 S&H) for Hr20 with instant $250 credit to my account and an additional $10 per month for 12 months. So my net cost is -$51. And I get to keep my H20. I took the offer now I have wait 2-3 weeks.

Does anyone know if I must accept the installation or can I DYI

Thanks.

[cybrsurfer]

I called D* last week and spoke with CSR. Best deal she offered was $99 and I had to return my leased H20. Called today and spoke with Customer Retention rep. She offered $299 (+19.95 S&H) for Hr20 with instant $250 credit to my account and an additional $10 per month for 12 months. So my net cost is -$51. And I get to keep my H20. I took the offer now I have wait 2-3 weeks.

Does anyone know if I must accept the installation or can I DYI

Thanks.

Hey it's free let them do it for you. They will provide either a AT-9 or a Slimline. Your foolish not to let them.:grin:
You see your patience has paid off for you.

[Longhorn92]

Installation called me again last night. Seems they still don't have any HR20's in stock in Dallas yet. This is the second time they've put off the install. The message on my answering machine said they'd call me to schedule an appointment when they get the box in stock. :nono2:

Anyone in Dallas (or anywhere else) had the HR20 installed lately?

I just called Retension to see what they were being told. The CSR that I spoke with said they have currently stopped taking orders for the HR20 from their customers. They hope to have more in within the next couple of weeks. She also said that they've told her that until D* gets more in and delivered to the current customers on the waiting list, the retailers won't be getting any more. Supposedly, they've added another line to increase the production of the HR20. It's the hottest thing going for them right now.

[jimbowen72]

I just called Retension to see what they were being told. The CSR that I spoke with said they have currently stopped taking orders for the HR20 from their customers. They hope to have more in within the next couple of weeks. She also said that they've told her that until D* gets more in and delivered to the current customers on the waiting list, the retailers won't be getting any more. Supposedly, they've added another line to increase the production of the HR20. It's the hottest thing going for them right now.

Just called retention and got the exact same answer... so it appears that some of the CSRs are paying attention to the notices (supposedly put out on Friday, 10/20). She recommended waiting three weeks to call back and resubmit order.

I had intended to order two HR-20's, and have notes in the system that one is to be free (fully-credited $99 upgrade, replacing currently owned HR10-250), and the second would be $99. However, I instead requested an H20 to be installed in place of the second HR20, which she fully credited because of the wait and willingness to accept 'lesser' equipment, and I also was given the standard $10 off for a year, plus 4 months of free HD. When I call back, she said the free upgrade from HR10 to HR20 will still be honored (and was noted).

[Willis]

Hey it's free let them do it for you. They will provide either a AT-9 or a Slimline. Your foolish not to let them.:grin:
You see your patience has paid off for you.

Hi,
I have the dish already installed. I received a h20 and 5 lnb dish install for free about 3 months ago. I am going to put the new HR20 in the bedroom and would prefer to install the receiver myself.

:)

[dsowens]

Longhorn92, I to am in Dallas. I had an HR20 installed last Monday night. It was delayed for 1 week becasue they were out of stock. Good luck with getting one soon...even thou you are a longhorn:D Dave (Red Raider 79).

[dcldeal]

Do I need to ask for the Multiswitch or does it come automatically with the HR20? My install is next week, so would appreciate the perspective.

i was able to get the $19.95 about two weeks ago.

[acomire]

I spoke to D* Tuesday and I was offered the $99 HR20 & AT9 upgrade. I paid $99 on my credit card and they credited $99 to my D* account. Been a Platinum subscriber for 7 years and haven't asked retention for much.....

I was told that I needed to return my HR10. I argued and argued, placed on hold and still told I needed to return it. I even asked for it to be relocated...

Basically I am concerned with all the bugs with the HR20 so I want to hold on the the HR10 for a failback just in case...or use it in another room in the house.

Are they blowing smoke? Should I try to reason with the installer? I am scheduled
for 10/31

Thanks!

[Slip Jigs]

I spoke to D* Tuesday and I was offered the $99 HR20 & AT9 upgrade. I paid $99 on my credit card and they credited $99 to my D* account. Been a Platinum subscriber for 7 years and haven't asked retention for much.....

I was told that I needed to return my HR10. I argued and argued, placed on hold and still told I needed to return it. I even asked for it to be relocated...

Basically I am concerned with all the bugs with the HR20 so I want to hold on the the HR10 for a failback just in case...or use it in another room in the house.

Are they blowing smoke? Should I try to reason with the installer? I am scheduled
for 10/31

Thanks!

From what I've gleaned so far, it's not so much about the box, but it's about the Access card. I would think they would let you keep it but in order to keep the card within activated, you have to pay the 2nd room fee.

[kencc]

Do I need to ask for the Multiswitch or does it come automatically with the HR20? My install is next week, so would appreciate the perspective.

i was able to get the $19.95 about two weeks ago.

Make sure the muliswitch is on the work order. I ran into this problem on sat. he told me it wasn't on the work order & he had none. I called today & they are coming back just for the multiswitch & to hook up 2nd line to the HR20.

[paulman182]

"Do I need to ask for the Multiswitch or does it come automatically with the HR20? My install is next week, so would appreciate the perspective."

If you need more than 4 lines, the Zinwell WB68 (which is not waterproof, by the way) should be included in an AT9 install.

The dish has 4 lines coming off its built-in switch that will handle 4 outputs.

[AlbertZeroK]

Okay, got my bill, was wondering if anyone knows what the difference between the two discounts are:

10/19 6 Mo Special Customer Discount -10.00 Credit
10/19 12 Month Programming Credit -10.00 Credit
09/21 10/20 TOTAL CHOICE PLUS Billing Adjustment -10.00 Credit
09/21 10/20 TOTAL CHOICE PLUS Billing Adjustment -20.00 Credit

It tould appear I'm getting a 12 month credit for $10 and a 6 month credit for $10, but what's the tother $10 and $20 credits?

It's not that I'm complaining, and I'm not going to call direcTV on this, but does anyone have a clue what the difference is?

[cybrsurfer]

Okay, got my bill, was wondering if anyone knows what the difference between the two discounts are:

10/19 6 Mo Special Customer Discount -10.00 Credit
10/19 12 Month Programming Credit -10.00 Credit
09/21 10/20 TOTAL CHOICE PLUS Billing Adjustment -10.00 Credit
09/21 10/20 TOTAL CHOICE PLUS Billing Adjustment -20.00 Credit

It tould appear I'm getting a 12 month credit for $10 and a 6 month credit for $10, but what's the tother $10 and $20 credits?

It's not that I'm complaining, and I'm not going to call direcTV on this, but does anyone have a clue what the difference is?

Nice deal, your good at bargain shopping.:D

[AlbertZeroK]

Yeah, but last time they gave me a credit, they took it back the next month (although a call to retention got that reversed credit taken off my account.).

[B.A.T.S]

Call Retention Dept. And Was Given Hr20 Upgrade Package Which I Ended Up Paying $99.....but Was Provided 1year Hd Credit @ $10/month & 6month Preimum Channel Discount @ $10/month.

Have Install Scheduled For 10/31 But I'm Having Second Thoughts After Reading Mostly Negative Reviews Since I've Been Researching.

[AlbertZeroK]

Have Install Scheduled For 10/31 But I'm Having Second Thoughts After Reading Mostly Negative Reviews Since I've Been Researching.

Don't look too hard. Most people only post about issue they have. You don't hear about all the good installs that happen every day (and there are far more of them then crappy installs.)

[vid53]

I own 2 HR10-250 tivos and 1 R10 tivo (Leased). I purchased my 2 HR-10-250before the lease program started. Do you think that they would upgrade the 2 HR10-250 and let me keep one to replace the R10, so I would end up with 3 HD Tivos.
Since I purchased them before the lease program arent they mine?

Thanks for any help
Vid53

[cybrsurfer]

I own 2 HR10-250 tivos and 1 R10 tivo (Leased). I purchased my 2 HR-10-250before the lease program started. Do you think that they would upgrade the 2 HR10-250 and let me keep one to replace the R10, so I would end up with 3 HD Tivos.
Since I purchased them before the lease program arent they mine?

Thanks for any help
Vid53

DirecTV policy is as follows:

Equipment/Receivers obtained on or after March 1,2006 are leased. Unless you pay DirecTV the cost to own it. To buy outright an HR20 would be $749., then you would own it.

[steff3]

[QUOTE=paulman182;698709
If you need more than 4 lines, the Zinwell WB68 (which is not waterproof, by the way) should be included in an AT9 install.[/QUOTE]

I was told it was water resistant. Not true? Installer mounted mine outside, under eave.

[adawg]

I called today, and while I did not get as good a deal as most, I am happy. I called, asked main CSR what the cost was to cancel my D* service. I was immediately transferred to retention. Told them of an offer I got from Charter cable and said if you can't do something to cut the cost of HR20 I am gone (4 year customer). They came back with $318 for HR20 less $150 instant credit and free showtime and $2 HBO for a year. I told her that was a BS offer and showed they do not value me as a customer. Immediately she offered the same $150 credit, plus $10 credit for 12 months and another $5 credit for 6 months. Essentially, the HR20 was $18. I can live with that.

[Tonedeaf]

I called retention over the weekend and was told that the HR20 is on backorder. Said they would put me on a list to be called back once it becomes in stock again.

Seems like others are getting their HR20 ordered and installs setup.

[cybrsurfer]

I called retention over the weekend and was told that the HR20 is on backorder. Said they would put me on a list to be called back once it becomes in stock again.

Seems like others are getting their HR20 ordered and installs setup.

I was able to get a replacement unit brought out to me by installer last Friday, despite the fact that they say they are out of them. It depends on what area, it seems Springfield MA office has them in stock. Fortunately for me I live 2 miles away from where the installers are. Bigger suburban area's are more likely to be out as opposed to smaller towns/cities. Just because customer service and retention say they are out, doesn't mean that they are completely out. They really have to call the installation centers to find out what's on hand to really be accurate. That's what ultimately advanced tech support did, he put me on hold and called my installers office, and they had some and he said we can replace my unit. So make sure who ever tells you that they are out - ask them to verify it by calling installers office.

[dcldeal]

When have people been getting calls before their installation? Mine is friday, and I haven't got a confirmation call. Just curious from folks experience.

[AlbertZeroK]

I would call Thursday or later today and confirm the appointment yourself.

[paulman182]

When have people been getting calls before their installation? Mine is friday, and I haven't got a confirmation call. Just curious from folks experience.


My confirmation calls have come one day before the install.

[LameLefty]

I never got a confirmation call, either before my first scheduled install on 10/7 (which was canceled - I didn't get THAT call either), or my actual install date of 10/21. However, on the date of installation, the tech did call about an hour ahead of time to tell me he was on his way and true to his word he showed up about 50 minutes later.

[Starrbuck]

Two of our cancellation calls were one or two days before the scheduled date, and the third was one hour after they were supposed to be there. On the day of the fourth install, they called to confirm about an hour before arriving.

[Gruson]

Hey guys,

I am in Frisco, TX.

I need TWO HR20s and just called the retention line.

She said there is a 4-month wait on them!!!

She also would not budge on price. Wanted $299 with $149 rebate.

No thanks.

I guess I will try again.

If anyone did get the $19.95 deal, please PM me if you do not mind sharing your information so I can get the same deal.

Thanks.

On anoter note, anyone in Frisco, TX using an OTA antenna? I have not been able to receive 11-1 and 8-1 for months now!

It is driving me crazy!

[adawg]

She said there is a 4-month wait on them!!!


Is this true? I had to sign a new 2 year contract that will not start until this receiver is installed. If I have to wait 4 months to start that contract, they need to get me more credits.

Give me a break, how hard can these things be to make?

[vegout]

Is this true? I had to sign a new 2 year contract that will not start until this receiver is installed. If I have to wait 4 months to start that contract, they need to get me more credits.

Give me a break, how hard can these things be to make?

I called last night and they scheduled my HR20 install for next week.

[adawg]

I called last night and they scheduled my HR20 install for next week.

How long have you been on the wait list? What number did you call?

Thanks!

[cEEngrEEn]

After being offered 4mos free of showtime and the HD pkg and 6mos of a $10 (special customer??!!) credit and additional 3mos $5 progrming credit when i inquired about nfl pkge last mnth i found out how this works.....i just kept sayin i dont kno and he just kept comin with it!!! ~ill take it~

kinda of a nice change a pace from the tough upsell on insurance and accesories on the attempted online purchases of an hls6188 last week(one fell thru one looks good so far)

i called saturday to inquire about dvr and was sent to install and i started by askin if i cud just get an hr10 on ebay after knowing about the waiting list and girl i got seemed little high strung and kept repeating herself bout the new mpeg4 encoding and hr10 being obselete with local hd and completly useless yr from now when all hd is encoded mpeg4 and said to go to bb to get hr20 if they even had it...i said OK and i asked for the special but she said there wasnt one!!!! whatever!!! i figured id just get one first then try again....

called retention today(1st time)after ordering from bb.... just asked what the best deal i cud get on the dvr and said my friend got his free and im geting offers for free dvr from dish and she said "let me check your acct and see what we can we do" she said "youve been with us over a year, thats good" then i said i dont want to leave i love D and even have Dway (which sucks btw, major lag!!not to mention $100 mnth) she was extremely friendly and said i can setup an install for tuesday!!! WOW!!! OK.. then i said are you sure there not outa stock??? she said she wud go ask superviser and came back and apologized for that...

no problem told her i allready have it comin from bb btween 8 and 11th...we set install for 12th...she must a been new or something but she was very sincere and a pleasure to talk to... the best attidude and service you could hope for really....deal took only3or4mins and actually spent next 20mins talkin with her bout our kids...hers same sex and age aprt as mine but 10yrs older... she said full credit was noted on account for $325(tax and s+h) and that was good enuff for me... so far so good....

[qlanus]

Having a month or so under my belt, and with the next software release expected 'any time now', I'm considering getting a 2nd HR20. I did get a reasonable deal through D* the first go-around - $99 w/the usual x months free HD programming. I'm not unhappy - I know others did better, others worse.

What are other's experiences with getting deals on their second systems? Any (many) try? Is D* equally generous or should I just go to BB and be happy?

Thanks all.

[cEEngrEEn]

Quick and funny update!!! the girl i spoke with either was very new or very medicated or it was a bait and switch joke on me... " full credit no problem sir" im not really quite sure which it was... but for the last 2days ive had service calls at 8am wake me up and even had my wife give directions to one who was bangin on the door while i was in a deep dream state over my 61DLP and HR20 due to arrive this week... the first one was sent away somewhat rudely after explaining i did not request service for a (searching for sattelite signal) after the second call this morning i decided its time to call install and see what gives... well they confirmed a service call but not a DVR install???? What???? no notation on my acct???

i explained the install date and credit given by lady at retention to no avail at which point i was sent to retention... it all made for a good story to which the guy said i beileve you but dont see any notation or work order but do see you talked to someone sunday and see their employee id #....how much did she say shed credit you??? 325!!thats not normal he said..we have as much pwer as any manager but thats not possible..he put me on hold 2mins came back and said is 299 ok???? cuz thats really the best we can do...

i googled retention and got number off another forum first time... maybe the direct call is a red flag dont kno but even the work order # she gave me was for someone in another state...she didnt seem sophisticated or demented enuff to pull that off but either way i got the deal... dont kno if this helps anybody but thats the deal i got and what i went thru to get it!!! LOL

[daytoday]

I have been a customer with D* for over 10 years. I have an old round dish and sony HD receiver. I also have cable so D* is not important and was thinking about canceling D*. I called the number and told the CSR I wanted to cancel. After talking to him for over 1-1/2 Hrs the CSR offered me a Triple LNB Dish and a HD 20 Receiver. I tried to ask for the HR20-700, but the CSR told me it was out of stock and that it would cost me an extra $100. I told him no thanks and I would have to think about it. I will be calling dish tomorrow to see what they will do.

[Starrbuck]

Having a month or so under my belt, and with the next software release expected 'any time now', I'm considering getting a 2nd HR20. I did get a reasonable deal through D* the first go-around - $99 w/the usual x months free HD programming. I'm not unhappy - I know others did better, others worse.

What are other's experiences with getting deals on their second systems? Any (many) try? Is D* equally generous or should I just go to BB and be happy?
I was told when I got my HR20 for $99 that I could get a second one for the same price after six months.

[SteinyD]

My first call this week to DTV in reference to the HR20-700S ended as I had hoped. They told me they were on backorder and weren't taking any further orders at this time. Realizing they were available in retail brick and mortor stores I asked to speak with customer retention. I told them I wanted to pick it up today and requested a credit on my account. They noted on my account that when activated,I would receive $200 credit.

In addition, I requested $20 a month for 6 months and that was granted as well. Mind you, I am a premium subscriber and considered to be an 'a-list' customer! (big deal).

I got the last HR20-700S from my local Best Buy.

[BlueSmurf]

I signed up for the waiting list this past weekend. I got an automated call tonight (11/17) saying that I could set up the order and install within the next two weeks.

When I called about the HD DVR, I had to speak to someone 4 times before I got the free offer. First time I called, I called the Customer Retention line and was told sure but then I was transferred to Customer Orders (or something like that). they told me that they couldn't give me the free offer and that I had to be transferred back to Customer Retention but I got transferred into never land. The second time I called, I got a regular person and they said the best they could do was $299. The third time, I spoke with a manager and they said that they could was $150. Finally, I called and spoke with someone in Customer Resolution. The lady there was most helpful and got me a free HR20-700, no shipping or anything, and 4 months free of HD programming. She told me specifically that Customer Resolution was the only deparment of D* that could give the HR20 at that much of a discount.

I called tonight and was transferred to Customer Installation. The man I spoke with ordered my system and scheduled the install. As said earlier, he told me directly that he couldn't give me the discount because he has a limit on that. But he put in my notes that someone higher up would give me my discount so that I would get my system for free. He said that this was the first time that he had heard of this much of a discount for an HR20.

My install is scheduled for Monday, 11/20 so we'll see how that goes. The first time around, our installer wasn't the brightest about installing things. Hopefully, they'll know what's going on now.

[kikkenit2]

Great Deal BlueSmurf. Like you I was on the waiting list for the HR20-700. I called CSR and was quoted only one new lease available @ $299 with 2 year commitment. I also wanted to upgrade my R15-500 for $100 and swap my HR10-250 for free. Prices were accepted but only 1 availabe now. Still in short supply. Retention threats don't work for me because my buyout is $300. Plus I mainly want D* for Sunday Ticket/Superfan (NFL in HD).

I just called back and got this deal. New leased HR20 and 5lnb dish installed Nov. 29. $299 on credit card tonight. $199 after $100 rebate. Other 2 DVR's upgraded soon when more product available. Sunday Ticket turned on this sunday for $174 rest of season (7 games). Superfan $? for free. $10 credit per month for 6 months. No extra programming offered. I don't want it anyway. Is this a good deal?

I also have E* with 2 VIP622's. I'll get all the local games on these. In 2 weeks I'll be able to record 4 live games at once in HD and eventually all 6 Fox and 3 CBS games broadcast in HD each week. Hopefully by next year all the games will be in HD or at least CBS will match Fox. That would be at least 14 games each week on all channels combined. Am I a crazy sports nut or can anybody else here record 10 HD channels at once and send them all to one TV like me? In other words when a bunch of folks are watching Dancing With the Stars I'll be watching football (No offence Cowboys fans but Emmitt S. you suck at that stuff).

[jessie1995]

I have been with D* since Sept of 2001 and supposedly an "A list" customer. I have had two rooms set up with the R-15 and both had to be replaced because they kept locking up.

I was hoping for advice on how to deal with CSR. I have two R-15's that have both had to be replaced. I have seen that many people have had the same problems. Can I get them to replace the R 15 with the R10 and do I need a different satallite setup?



FYI , after a year of hearing I was an A list I finally found out what's so special about that. They told me that if I have a problem and need someone to come out, as long as I call before 9 am, it's a requirement to get someone out to my house by 5 pm the same day. I don't know what happens if they don't make it, I found out after my service was finally fixed by the 5 repairman. The company they use in my area must hire the rejects no one else will. We've NEVER had a competant repairman, when they first installed it, the guy screwed up and gave the wrong serial nymber so the reveivers would work. After an hour he said the hell with this I have cable and walked out. I had to finish the installation myself.

[Calebrot]

I have been with D* since Sept of 2001 and supposedly an "A list" customer. I have had two rooms set up with the R-15 and both had to be replaced because they kept locking up.

I was hoping for advice on how to deal with CSR. I have two R-15's that have both had to be replaced. I have seen that many people have had the same problems. Can I get them to replace the R 15 with the R10 and do I need a different satallite setup?



FYI , after a year of hearing I was an A list I finally found out what's so special about that. They told me that if I have a problem and need someone to come out, as long as I call before 9 am, it's a requirement to get someone out to my house by 5 pm the same day. I don't know what happens if they don't make it, I found out after my service was finally fixed by the 5 repairman. The company they use in my area must hire the rejects no one else will. We've NEVER had a competant repairman, when they first installed it, the guy screwed up and gave the wrong serial nymber so the reveivers would work. After an hour he said the hell with this I have cable and walked out. I had to finish the installation myself.


I've encountered bad field technicians also. I did find out from the last techs that were here, that DTV has a local office and they also hire out to another company to assist with installation and repairs. I always had installs done by the hired out company but this last time was a service call because the HR-20 lost local HD channels and the techs that came were actual DTV employees, DTV truck and blue shirt with DTV logo. They looked at the installation and couldn't believe how it was done, the support bars for the AT-9 dish were not installed and it caused my dish to sway in the wind. They couldn't believe the shi**y job that the hired techs did.

Anyway, it sounds like you had the hired help, but I would definitely call DTV and complain, there is no way a customer should have to complete his own installation. When I was talking to the real DTV techs while they were fixing the dish install, I overheard them talking amongst themselves about an install the one did on Sunday, and he was saying that it took him longer to get the unit activated than the actual install. I chimed in and said, "Wait a second, you mean the field techs are supposed to activate the unit?" He said yes, and then I told him about the hired help and how they just installed the hardware and left me to do the rest. They appologized over and over again, but now I find out I didn't, like it seems you also didn't get a "professional installation"

[jamieh1]

DirecTV policy is as follows:

Equipment/Receivers obtained on or after March 1,2006 are leased. Unless you pay DirecTV the cost to own it. To buy outright an HR20 would be $749., then you would own it.

I have 2 HR10-250s that I bought before the March lease program started, 1 I got last August 2005 and 1 I got the day before the lease program started.
I called when the HR20 was available, I was told I could only upgrade 1 of them and had to wait 6 months before I could upgrade the 2nd. Well I was offered one for $99 then a $99 rebate (free) and the other at the best price available.
Well placed the order, when I went online to verify my order it showed 2, I called and asked if I was getting 2 they said yes. Also when I placed the order, they asked since you own your HR10s do you want to own your HR20s. I said yes, and I could keep my HR10s.
So I got 2 new HR20s Free
got to keep my 2 HR10s.
Plus a free AT9 dish.

1 HR20=$299
1 HR20=$299
-----------------
$598
my cost $000
plus kept my HR10s that cost me around $1398
I think I got a very good deal.

[keep amonte]

I got mine for 49.00. 199.00 minus 141.00 credit by retention. 4months free hd, HBO, Starz, they moved my old directivo upstairs, ran an inside line, and fished thru the wall.

[wyatt9696]

my deal was: 99.00 for the unit
99.00 equipment credit
Free Starz 3 months
Free Showtime 6 months
10.00 programming credit 12 months

The guy i spoke with was simply awesome. my best "d" experience in 5 years.

[cybrsurfer]

I have 2 HR10-250s that I bought before the March lease program started, 1 I got last August 2005 and 1 I got the day before the lease program started.
I called when the HR20 was available, I was told I could only upgrade 1 of them and had to wait 6 months before I could upgrade the 2nd. Well I was offered one for $99 then a $99 rebate (free) and the other at the best price available.
Well placed the order, when I went online to verify my order it showed 2, I called and asked if I was getting 2 they said yes. Also when I placed the order, they asked since you own your HR10s do you want to own your HR20s. I said yes, and I could keep my HR10s.
So I got 2 new HR20s Free
got to keep my 2 HR10s.
Plus a free AT9 dish.

1 HR20=$299
1 HR20=$299
-----------------
$598
my cost $000
plus kept my HR10s that cost me around $1398
I think I got a very good deal.

I had paid for all my equipment for the buyout cost. After reading all the many threads about the deals people were getting, I got pissed off and had my bank charge back my payments. So in the end I paid zip. The bank is applying it to my buyer protection, so DTV wont even be bothered by it.

[BlueSmurf]

Well, my install was today. The tech had a cancellation so he came by early. It was installed by 12:30 (appt was 1-5). The systems works great. I've only had to reset it once when I was using HDMI and was setting up the remote. It would work on component but not on HDMI (only snow).

Only problem I had with the install was that I had to call to activate the HD package and to disconnect the standard receiver in the bedroom--gonna use the SD DVR in there now.

[bobojay]

Just got my December bill, (email). Naturally they've got it screwed up from my HR20 install. I can see by the bill they are going to try to charge me $133.00 each month for 3 months. That was not my agreement!
I can't call them because I'm out of town till 11-24 and don't have my notes to argue with.
Not looking forward to it.........

[cybrsurfer]

Just got my December bill, (email). Naturally they've got it screwed up from my HR20 install. I can see by the bill they are going to try to charge me $133.00 each month for 3 months. That was not my agreement!
I can't call them because I'm out of town till 11-24 and don't have my notes to argue with.
Not looking forward to it.........

Damn, what the heck are they trying to pull. Can you give more specifics to what the charge is saying, itemize it for us in detail.

[bobojay]

Damn, what the heck are they trying to pull. Can you give more specifics to what the charge is saying, itemize it for us in detail.


Basically what happened is, last months bill was -$13.76. This was for the month after the install. New bill is $230.00 +. On this bill is a line that says: $133.00 x 3 on one line. Doesn't that sound like they are going to try the $133.00 for the next 3 mos.
My normal bill should be around $90.00 +/- a few $$. My agreement was for my December bill to be $170.00 +/- a few. That was the only month that was supposed to be very different from normal.
I've got it all wrote down at home with the CSR's name etc. etc.........:mad:
I've got some consessions in there to, but can't remember them exactly right now.

[cybrsurfer]

Basically what happened is, last months bill was -$13.76. This was for the month after the install. New bill is $230.00 +. On this bill is a line that says: $133.00 x 3 on one line. Doesn't that sound like they are going to try the $133.00 for the next 3 mos.
My normal bill should be around $90.00 +/- a few $$. My agreement was for my December bill to be $170.00 +/- a few. That was the only month that was supposed to be very different from normal.
I've got it all wrote down at home with the CSR's name etc. etc.........:mad:
I've got some consessions in there to, but can't remember them exactly right now.

Thanks for the info.

[surfbird]

Basically what happened is, last months bill was -$13.76. This was for the month after the install. New bill is $230.00 +. On this bill is a line that says: $133.00 x 3 on one line. Doesn't that sound like they are going to try the $133.00 for the next 3 mos.
My normal bill should be around $90.00 +/- a few $$. My agreement was for my December bill to be $170.00 +/- a few. That was the only month that was supposed to be very different from normal.
I've got it all wrote down at home with the CSR's name etc. etc.........:mad:
I've got some consessions in there to, but can't remember them exactly right now.

no. 1 - it may have been ordered that way so it could be billed to your acct.. if it went a 1 payment then it HAD TO BE paid by credit card.. so the only way to order & be charged to bill was to do installments. then the csr had to credit the amt they told you the 1st & only time & then the other 2 installment charges get charged to your bill.. I hate to acknowledge that maybe the info wasn't given completely but that is how it had to be ordered & sorry they didn't give more info on why it was done that way.. trust me, i have done it that way too but i forewarned them of the cost & gave them the option.. credit card in full or this route. Robin - yes, ret specialist.

[surfbird]

Quick Summary -- you want the HR20 - Right??

-- I don't care how many times u spoke to an agent, whether ret or cis (cust installation support) go to www.directv.com/hddvr & add your name YourSelf that is going to be your first route & quickest way of getting it..

-- No one at D* can order this ird unless it is specially noted by a computer generated route & it is in a specific area of your acct (meaning d* know u tell others offers) & it is set in acct to let us know u were called to let u know your available for it

-- If ur going to order this.. CIS Really, Really is the dept that orders equipment. CRG offers replacement equpmnt for retention purposes. We can't offer a receiver we can't order right now!! &

-- credit for a free hr20.. be still my heart.. not from me, i can't credit that full amt & most supervisors would cringe to see that amt too.

-- Not trying to get someone's goat but when u try to get this receiver & your not on the list yet. (which this list started about 3 weeks ago) then u r taking away from someone who did follow Earl's post weeks ago & got on it. Be fair, there will be more of these soon.

-- & so far, there really isn't any "awesome" deals out for it since it is so hard to get. at least not on cost. programming disc maybe .. good luck, & have patience.

[Dalek1963]

Hi Sufbird,
When I get customers, who tell me that retention offered them a free hddvr, which I cannot fullfill, then who could. I even had a customer the other day, that a retention csr had placed a comment on the account, that they had offered the customer 3 free hddvrs, please honor. I had to transfer to crg, no way around that.

[AlbertZeroK]

Hi Sufbird,
When I get customers, who tell me that retention offered them a free hddvr, which I cannot fullfill, then who could. I even had a customer the other day, that a retention csr had placed a comment on the account, that they had offered the customer 3 free hddvrs, please honor. I had to transfer to crg, no way around that.

Once someone is told something like that though and it's documented, doesn't DirecTV have to fullfil the commitment? Or does DirecTV often feel that they do not have to fullfil those commitments?

[lombar]

Hey all. So after reading this I'm sort of annoyed. I am going to be getting an new HDTV and because of that obviously wanted an HR20. So I got on the list and they called while I was home so I got automatically transferred to someone who ordered it for me. They sold it to me for $299 and I specifically asked if it was $100 off or anything and she said no.

After reading this I am really thinking about calling to see if they will give me a discount. If I call D* and just tell them I am considering cancelling and if I mention that I read on a forum people were getting deals on the unit do you think they will play? Also I could mention the fact that Comcast is trying to get me to switch plus Dish has offered a free DVR to switch.

If I do this do I just call the normal customer service number and ask to speak to customer retention? Any ideas on how to go about this or even if you think I don't have a chance of getting any money off would be great. Feel free to PM me if you would rather.

Hope everyones Turkey Day went well.

[vegout]

When I went to upgrade to a free HR20, it was not available. Since I thought it was going to be at least a month until they were available, I went with the H20, which cost me $99 + $20. Two weeks later, the HR20 became available and I had it installed and disconnected the H20.

Initially, they told me I would receive a return kit. When that did not arrive, I called and the CSR told me they did not want it back. I asked if I could get a refund and they so no but gave me a $10 credit for 12 months.

Now, what do I do with the H20? Can I put it on EBAY or will D* want it back if I ever cancel?

[cybrsurfer]

When I went to upgrade to a free HR20, it was not available. Since I thought it was going to be at least a month until they were available, I went with the H20, which cost me $99 + $20. Two weeks later, the HR20 became available and I had it installed and disconnected the H20.

Initially, they told me I would receive a return kit. When that did not arrive, I called and the CSR told me they did not want it back. I asked if I could get a refund and they so no but gave me a $10 credit for 12 months.

Now, what do I do with the H20? Can I put it on EBAY or will D* want it back if I ever cancel?

I would get a second opinion from a manager before you assume you own it. I feel it's still a leased box and they can conveniently turn the tables on you. Sometimes the return kits come later then they should. Login online and click on orders to see if it has been sent. It took about 6 weeks before mine came after deactivating my H20.

[greginaz1]

Was just offered the HR20 for $199 minus $10 a month for 12 months...so $79

They also told me the HR10 I currently have (and can keep) will not work with the 5 LNB dish, is this true?

Thanks.

[mikeny]

Was just offered the HR20 for $199 minus $10 a month for 12 months...so $79

They also told me the HR10 I currently have (and can keep) will not work with the 5 LNB dish, is this true?

Thanks.
The HR10 works as perfectly with the 5 LNB dish as it does with the 3 LNB dish. However, it won't pick up the 99/103 satellites, where the mpeg-4 channels are sent from. The HR10, as you probably know can't do mpeg-4 anyway.

[greginaz1]

The HR10 works as perfectly with the 5 LNB dish as it does with the 3 LNB dish. However, it won't pick up the 99/103 satellites, where the mpeg-4 channels are sent from. The HR10, as you probably know can't do mpeg-4 anyway.

Thanks and that makes sense...when is MPEG-2 slated to fade away?

[greginaz1]

Thanks and that makes sense...when is MPEG-2 slated to fade away?

Got my answer from another thread...another year or so I guess.

[brianxmurray]

I am a newbie. I just got off the phone with a CSR and they offered the new D* HD/DVR box and the 5LNB dish for $99 installed. This will allow me to get the locals in HD without a OTA. However, I would be put on a waiting list for approx 3 weeks. Is this something I should jump on or should I wait a month and see if I can get it for free? Any thoughts?

[schley]

I don't know if I'm just a lucky guy but I had GREAT luck today. Stumbled onto this and tivocommunity forums and read up on how to get a HD DVR. I unlike many others research and use the search function before posting questions that have been answered a thousand times previously.

I decided to experiment and play different personalities until I got the deal I wanted. This is the first time I have ever called or spoken to retention btw. Been with D* for 5 years (except for a 3 month experiment with VOOM a couple years back, disaster btw).

Call 1- I was a nice introverted guy who seemed clueless and purposely called equipment by function not name. For example a DVR was a "recorder thing" and talked about wanting to cancel to go to Dish for my buddy got a free HD recorder deal. After not caring whether I would get the deal or not, the guy was very patient but didn't budge off of his offer. 100 off, 6 months of starz. That is it! I was laughing on the inside and politely said no thanks.

Call 2- I was the guy who cut right to the chase and was well informed about all the deals out there from competitors and threw around specific equipment names and documented deals posted on the forums. He immediately said well I can offer you the new HR20 for free and give you 6 months of showtime. I was almost shocked, and of course said, "Well can you throw in a credit on my account, or give me some more premium channels?" He then offered $10 credit for 6 months on my sports pack. I asked if he could do anything else like give me some credit for my NFL sunday ticket.
He put me on hold after speaking with his superviser and said I can give you the HD free for 1 year, thus it was a $10 credit for the next 12 months.

So I said you gotta deal baby! He gave me the priority list number and I signed up so hopefully in 2 weeks I will get taken care of.

In summation this was the deal:

Free HR20 and 5LBN dish. No shipping for the installer will be delivering it.
Free installation obviously
$10 credit for 12 months
$10 credit for 6 months
Free Showtime for 6 months

I'm high 5ing myself right now. Fired up.:D

[RxMan1]

Nice post. Did you call retention of use the main CSR line?

[schley]

Nice post. Did you call retention of use the main CSR line?

main line and was pretty easy. It is noteworthy that although yes it was only 2 different calls with 2 different personalities it is good info for 1 to try themselves.

[amdspitfire]

i'm a new d* subscriber is there anyway I can get a simmilar deal for the hr20?

[Steveknj]

So it sounds to me that the right approach is to be well informed of what your choices are out there. I think I'm going to make my call over the weekend as I have learned that the HR20s are available again.

[deuce01]

Maybe not the right thread but here goes...

I have an HR10 and am getting the OTA's. Is there a compelling reason to switch to the HR20 right now? I keep wanting to call and upgrade but I'm wondering if I need it or am just wanting the "Newest Thing". Just looking for a reality check.

[Steveknj]

OK, called CSR at D*, they wouldn't budge off $50 credit off $299, so they transferred me to Rentention. I explained that doing a cost analysis with Cable, having the HR20 would cost me over $200 more than cable, so she offered me a $200 credit. When I mentioned that I know people have gotten a better deal as I have researched in on various support forums, she threw in 4 months of the HD package. Probably not the best deal I could get if I pushed it, but I'm satisfied enough that it's not worth me playing CSR roulette, so I took it. Have to wait 2 weeks for install, which is ok. Was just hoping before Christmas when I tear up my family room for redecorations.

Thanks for everyone on here for your help. It was a lot easier being armed when calling than just arguing with no ammo.

[bigpuma]

Maybe not the right thread but here goes...

I have an HR10 and am getting the OTA's. Is there a compelling reason to switch to the HR20 right now? I keep wanting to call and upgrade but I'm wondering if I need it or am just wanting the "Newest Thing". Just looking for a reality check.

If you are getting your locals via OTA there is no reason to switch at this time. I would probably wait until all the bugs are worked out over the next few months. Unless of course DirecTV was willing to give it to you for free. Then I might go ahead.

[fochs13]

I got an HR-20 for $299 - $250 with 4 months free hd programming. I think this is a pretty good deal. I let them know I was considering switching to cable and the transfered me to retention. I've been with directv for over 3 years, so that might have helped.

[deuce01]

If you are getting your locals via OTA there is no reason to switch at this time. I would probably wait until all the bugs are worked out over the next few months. Unless of course DirecTV was willing to give it to you for free. Then I might go ahead.

Well, up until 10PM tonight I had decided to take Puma's advice. However, while attempting to watch The Polar Express with my wife and son tonight over OTA I experience serveral searching for signal messages and significant signal "Hiccups". It's been very windy here today and I'm guessing that the anntenna has shifted a bit more. Since it's on a second story roof, I can't very well fix it very easily. So, we watched the last hour in SD. :mad:

After we put the kids to bed I called D* to express my displeasure with the HR10's performance and my frustration with having to deal with OTA when HD locals are now in my area. Taking a cue from Schley, I told the CSR that she was incorrect about people getting the HR20 for free and that I was not going to pay $299 for it. Especially since TWC has an HD-DVR for free. She said she would get me over to someone that could "work" with me and then promptly messed up the transfer and dropped the call. :nono2:

I called back and through the wonders of voice recognition the words "hardware upgrade" landed me in the Tech department. I explained to the CSR that I'd just called a minute ago and got disconnected. I then restated my issue. This one was pretty nice. She told me that she didn't want me to have to repeat myself again adn took a bunch of notes. She then said that since I was an "A" list customer (first time I've actually been called that) they didn't want me to go to TWC and transferred me, successfully, to retention. Finally, I came in contact with someone that gave a crap. She looked over the notes and said that she agreed that I shouldn't have to fight the OTA with HD locals in my area and offered the HR20 for $299 in three payments and a $200 credit. I asked for 6 months of the HD package and she gave me 4. I said that would work and set it up.

It took 3 calls on 3 different days but I finally got a fair deal IMHO. It ain't free but they do need a profit to stay in business. She said nothing about returning my HR10 so I'm assuming that I get to keep it. If the installer asks for it back should I give it to him? Anyway, I hope the HD locals are worth it and I'm praying for better luck with the HR20 than some of you have had.

Goodnight and God Bless...

[mrsoybot]

First off - Thanks to all of you posters and DBSTalk. I am a new member and based on everyones posts I knew exactly what to do. After about 2 weeks on the waiting list my number came the other day. I called yesterday and after the initial CSR wouldn't budge off of the $299, I asked to speak to Customer Retention. I mentioned the cable company was offering free DVR, ect, as well as the fact that I have multiple packages, Ticket, Superfan, HBO. She was quick to offer me a full rebate of the $315 (299 plus taxes ect) if I paid it up front. I didn't push any further as I don't mind basically prepaying my next 3-4 monthly bills in exchange for a free HR20. My only complaint is that for some reason they insist on sending out an installer (earliest open date in my area is 2 weeks away), even though I already have the 5LNB Dish and all necessary wiring. Oh well.

[schley]

First off - Thanks to all of you posters and DBSTalk. I am a new member and based on everyones posts I knew exactly what to do. After about 2 weeks on the waiting list my number came the other day. I called yesterday and after the initial CSR wouldn't budge off of the $299, I asked to speak to Customer Retention. I mentioned the cable company was offering free DVR, ect, as well as the fact that I have multiple packages, Ticket, Superfan, HBO. She was quick to offer me a full rebate of the $315 (299 plus taxes ect) if I paid it up front. I didn't push any further as I don't mind basically prepaying my next 3-4 monthly bills in exchange for a free HR20. My only complaint is that for some reason they insist on sending out an installer (earliest open date in my area is 2 weeks away), even though I already have the 5LNB Dish and all necessary wiring. Oh well.

good job congrats... i'm waiting for mine as well.

[schley]

Well, up until 10PM tonight I had decided to take Puma's advice. However, while attempting to watch The Polar Express with my wife and son tonight over OTA I experience serveral searching for signal messages and significant signal "Hiccups". It's been very windy here today and I'm guessing that the anntenna has shifted a bit more. Since it's on a second story roof, I can't very well fix it very easily. So, we watched the last hour in SD. :mad:

After we put the kids to bed I called D* to express my displeasure with the HR10's performance and my frustration with having to deal with OTA when HD locals are now in my area. Taking a cue from Schley, I told the CSR that she was incorrect about people getting the HR20 for free and that I was not going to pay $299 for it. Especially since TWC has an HD-DVR for free. She said she would get me over to someone that could "work" with me and then promptly messed up the transfer and dropped the call. :nono2:

I called back and through the wonders of voice recognition the words "hardware upgrade" landed me in the Tech department. I explained to the CSR that I'd just called a minute ago and got disconnected. I then restated my issue. This one was pretty nice. She told me that she didn't want me to have to repeat myself again adn took a bunch of notes. She then said that since I was an "A" list customer (first time I've actually been called that) they didn't want me to go to TWC and transferred me, successfully, to retention. Finally, I came in contact with someone that gave a crap. She looked over the notes and said that she agreed that I shouldn't have to fight the OTA with HD locals in my area and offered the HR20 for $299 in three payments and a $200 credit. I asked for 6 months of the HD package and she gave me 4. I said that would work and set it up.

It took 3 calls on 3 different days but I finally got a fair deal IMHO. It ain't free but they do need a profit to stay in business. She said nothing about returning my HR10 so I'm assuming that I get to keep it. If the installer asks for it back should I give it to him? Anyway, I hope the HD locals are worth it and I'm praying for better luck with the HR20 than some of you have had.

Goodnight and God Bless...

I think you approached it very well. It is so hit and miss I'm still amazed at the huge variation in people's deals depending on who answers.:nono2:

[Knickfreak]

here is the deal i got on friday:
the first CSR didn't want to give me the HR20 for free let alone anything else. I went from retention to resolution, who gave me a pretty good deal.

I am getting the following for free:

HR20
H20
5LNB Dish + Install

plus

$10/month off my DTV bill for 12 months = 120$ back

additionally, i just got a coupon for 10% off any circuit city directv purchase, which was then used to buy a 2nd HR20.

I feel pretty good. Installer is coming out tomorrow.

[german72]

I think you approached it very well. It is so hit and miss I'm still amazed at the huge variation in people's deals depending on who answers.:nono2:

I went to their website yesterday and opened the "upgrade your system" section and under the dvr section, it stated that I could order a new hr-20dvr completely free.

This will make my third one.

Sorry, I just read the offer again and it does Not say a hr-20. I assume that it is a hr-15.

Mike:)

[Tonedeaf]

Is there any way to tell where you are on the wait list??? I signed on the wait list when it first started and have not had a call. What gives??

Could not get anything out of the CSR drones. I hate not having that retention number anymore.

[jmeitz]

my deal i just got was 2 for 2 for six months, $5 hd for six months and free HR20 and get to keep my HD Tivo Box. I know others got better deals but i am somewhat happy with this. i have called 4 times and this was the best offer yet. Prior i had to trade in my tivo for a free box but i insisted that i dont since i bought it.

[St8kout]

Just made my first call to Directv about getting the HR20 and the CSR insists that nobody gets it for free.

"Well, how about a rebate. I pay the $299 and you rebate it back to me?"

"No sir, we don't do that."

"I'm not asking for a new dish installation or free HD for a year or any such thing. Just the HR20 at no cost."

"No, that's never been done. Nobody gets it for free."

"You know, I've been with Directv since the beginning. I figure I've already paid out some $7000 to $8000 to you. I'm not under any contract or lease with you now. If you give me the HR20, you'll have me under contract for another 2 years. That's over $2200 more you'll get from me."

"Sorry, everybody has to pay $299 if they want the HR20."

"I've read other peoples experiences in various forums and they are getting these great deals. Why can't I."

"That's incorrect. Nobody gets it for free."

"Can I speak with someone in retention?"

"This IS retention."


(Click-dial tone)

[mazter]

Call back and cancel , their tune will change. For the record I got mine for nothing . And I know many , many others have too.

[german72]

Who ever you spoke to, lied to you.

There are many of us that received out hr-20s for Free.

I received 2 and am waiting for another.

[chicago_cws]

Got mine for 100 off of the normal 299 price. Not the best deal, but I didn't push it either. Actually, I didn't even try, this is the deal I was offered straight away.
Am already getting Showtime for free from a previous complaint. My main goal is to be able to essentially get a free upgrade by selling my HR10 to offset the cost. At this point, looks like I will end up ahead on the deal (based on what I am seeing on eBay). Gotta figure that the recent release of OTA will reduce the value of those HR10s so I wanted to get moving while the HR10 still was worth something on eBay.

[JoshFink]

Alright, I've been reading here for a while but I thought I would post since it might help out someone.

I'm moving to a new house this week and I called DirecTV and talked to them about whether I should cancel and go with Comcast or stay with them.

They offered me the following:
2 Free HR20's
5 LNB Dish
Multiple Multi-Switches since I'm moving 5 total DVR's (3 Tivos/2 HR20's)
Free Installlation
HD for free for 12 months

Of course they didn't have the HR20's in stock but told me that if I buy them locally they will just credit my account. I bought 2 off of the CC website and they credited me $630.

Josh

[presant]

I'm in Southern California and I saw Costco offering the HR20's for $269.00. They had quite a few of them both in the Century Store near the airport and also in the Marina Store.

[dsstalkcom]

i saw many HR20 at my Costco also for $269.

sick and tired of talking to the CSR that don't know anything.

i called Retention about 5 times. and got the HR20 for $99, 5 months of HD, only HBO and SHO.

not the greatest deal but ok.

[rich68]

Hello all!

New to dbstalk, but wanted to post the recent offer that DirecTV gave me. I have been a DTV subscriber for 4 1/2 years. I called customer retention as Comcast just bought out Adelphia in my market. Told DTV that Comcast would switch me and give me 3 HD DVRs. Here is what retention offered.

1 free HR20-700 with dish installed - I already have the dish so I let them know that.

They stated that I could only get 1 HR20 every 6 months due to the demand. I told them I wanted 3 total, but they would not budge.

I then asked them if I went out and bought the other two off the shelf if they would credit my account for both of them. They stated that they would credit my account for 1 of them only.

So in the end.. 1 free hr20 and I would have to buy the other and they would credit the cost back to me on my bill. I did not ask about free HD package or anything else. I just left it at that.. I did not sign up YET, but would definitely hit them up for more package credits if I do.

Anyway.. Just thought I would share the experience. What does everybody think?

Thanks,
Rich

[VideoVeteran]

Another person, another story...
I just got off the phone with them and the CSR told me that the "installation" department may have some promotions, but he didn't have anything to offer.

After being transferred to installations, i was told that the units are back-ordered and I could only be put on a wait list and there was no promotion, no further discount. She kept telling me that they had already lowered the price from $399 originally and that $100 saving was all I could get.

I asked if I bought one from local stock at BB, what could they do? She said no rebate, no credit, but free installation was available. That's it... I said I was comparing the offer to Comcast who is offering a HD-DVR with no up front fee at all and the offer doesn't look so good for retention of my service. She said that's all they could do. :(

Do I need to cancel in order to get the best deal?

What makes that hard, is that the CSR confirmed that my lifetime DVR subscription (from 2000) would transfer and I wouldn't have to pay the $5.99 /mo DVR fee.

Any suggestions?

[RollTideinHD]

I was actually happy with everything and I initiated all of this due to an erroneous charge on my bellsouth account. Turned out to be a fraudulent company. Because of this, I decided to re-evaluate all my services from all companies. Spent the last few days looking over satelite, local phone & broadband charges. I shopped around and decided I'd go to Charter because they had a package. I even signed up with them and started calling my current service providers to cancel my service (D* & BellSouth). Both kissed my behind and gave me amazing price breaks. Got $10 off/month for DSL from BellSou but the D* was the best deal.

Currently paying for the plus package and was able to get $200 credit toward HD DVR. I said that they should give me the other $99 and if they do, I will stay... so after the rep talked to her supe, she gave me the $99 credit also. In addition, I'm getting $15 off/month for one year, free installation, 4 months free HD package & 6 months Showtime channels for free.

I'm elated with this deal although i worked my butt off for it. Talked to 3 different reps. 2 were nice and 1 was a complete tool. Probably spent over 2 hrs total talking to them. Also, you guys should check with your local phone provider, they bundle packages together with D* where you can get a few more bucks knocked off your monthly D* service.

I am just happy that D* went to bat for me for being a loyal customer for all these years and look forward to many more (I have to...with a 2 yr contract). I'm excited to get the HD signals cause my OTA HD signals are crap due to having the antenna in the attic. Lets see if they actually honor this deal once I get my turn up in the HD DVR waiting list. I am hopeful to have this up and running by the time all the major bowl games are being played but from what I read in this forum, I might not be watching any ESPN HD until mid-january if even that.

Good luck to all!

[adawg]

Another person, another story...
I just got off the phone with them and the CSR told me that the "installation" department may have some promotions, but he didn't have anything to offer.

After being transferred to installations, i was told that the units are back-ordered and I could only be put on a wait list and there was no promotion, no further discount. She kept telling me that they had already lowered the price from $399 originally and that $100 saving was all I could get...



D* sure is handling this all very oddly. I had been on the waiting list for 6 weeks and was tired of all the stores having them and me still not getting one. I was sent to installations when I called and they ignored all the call notes and wanted to charge me $300. When I pointed out that I had already negotiated a free unit ($199 upfront and an immediate $199 bill credit) they said they couldn't help me and sent me to retention. Retention not only scheduled me an install date, but gave me $120 in programming credits for my trouble.

While the waitlist is frustrating, the people in retnetion have been great. One of the only reasons I am still with D*.

[uteotw]

Just a head's up: Mine was supposed to be "free." Installed in late October and a $99 bill just showed up on my account. Made a few calls and luckily they had their notes from Sept. and actually credited my account, but for a minute there I thought there would be no record at all...

[adawg]

Just a head's up: Mine was supposed to be "free." Installed in late October and a $99 bill just showed up on my account. Made a few calls and luckily they had their notes from Sept. and actually credited my account, but for a minute there I thought there would be no record at all...

One trick I have learned is to ask the CSR to read back to you their exact call notes. That way there are no surprises. I learned this from friends that work in a call center. It has saved me several times.

[JoshFink]

One trick I have learned is to ask the CSR to read back to you their exact call notes. That way there are no surprises. I learned this from friends that work in a call center. It has saved me several times.

Let's chalk another one up for DirecTV lying to people. My two were supposed to be free and I was told I was credited $630 for both.

Well, I called back to today to reschedule my appointment and apparently they credited me $250. What does that even cover? Doesn't even cover one unit, let alone both with taxes. How can they think this is even valid? The CSR I talked with told me explicitely that he I should probably go out and buy them myself as it could be a while before I get them. He said they would credit back my account the $299 + tax for each unit.

To me it seems like a variation on the bait and switch. They tell you to go out and buy it, you do, then thy come back and say, oops. That's not what it says in our notes, but hey, since you have the units we'll keep you as a customer.

As you can tell I'm not thrilled about this at all.

[Greenflag]

Hmmm. I'm going from HR10 to HR20 and I thought I was getting a good deal at $99. Maybe have to call D* about this. OTOH, I was told I could keep the HR10, which would give me 2 HD DVRs, even though one is the "old" one. Maybe worth $99.

David

[MikeekiM]

I didn't get much...and it took me a long time and several agents to get it...

I got $150 credit upon activation... That's it...

So $299.99 - $150.00 = $149.99

Honestly...I feel pretty good about the deal... It's not as grand as what some are reporting they are getting... But I still think I got a reasonable deal...

[Oglikn]

Well, after finally finding a unit at a not-so-local CC, I purchased it last night. I called D* and after talking with multiple CSRs and one disconnect, I'm getting a $20 credit for six months and $50 dish-replacement waived. I was OK with this as I don't mind paying some for the unit now that I know OTA will eventually be activated.

[jimmyt]

no luck for me - called retention and they said waiting list only.. anyone else getting the same result?

thanks

jim

[DFDureiko]

as you might have seen in another thread. I brought home the new HDTV, a 37in Olevia, and called DTV to get into the arguement for the free HR20/Dish/Install. Same thing waiting list. Ask to speak with a supervisor, they said there were none available and one would call back within 24hrs. I've been reading this forum for several months, and posting here and there. It does seem like most people were getting completely free units and AT-9 dish installs.
Does threating, or actually saying, FINE discontiue service, I'm going back to cable do anything? We've been a 100.00 a month customer for over five years. But I dont' want to cut off my nose in spite here and wind up with no tv :))
I can get Adelphia SINGLE tuner HDDVR for nominal charge, or pay 800bucks for a TiVo series 3. I've seen in other threads it just takes perserverance, call every day and speak to a diferent CSR??? till you get one that does what you want?
quite frankly I think if they are making people wait for the HR20 now, they shoudl get it for free for the inconvienance!
I'm tempted to go to Circuit City and see if they have any and try to get the free dish and install, but the other 1/2 nixes that idea.
Dan
R10 & standard reciever in home
HR20-250TiVo/Motosat MHDTV- Airstream RV......all on one account.

[Brantel]

They gave me a fit until I finally said, Transfer me to whoever can cancel my account right now. All of a sudden, things changed. I was given a free H20 and entered on the waiting list for a free HR20 plus programming incentives.

Got my HR20 installed Saturday.

[german72]

They gave me a fit until I finally said, Transfer me to whoever can cancel my account right now. All of a sudden, things changed. I was given a free H20 and entered on the waiting list for a free HR20 plus programming incentives.

Got my HR20 installed Saturday.

Good for you! This confirms what we all have been saying along.

Keep on calling...:lol:

Mike

[DFDureiko]

what about this. I found a CC that has one, about an hour away. if I buy it for 299.00 what are the chances of getting a 2-300 dollar credit and free AT9 install.. I don't mind waiting for the AT-9 as it's only for the locals, and i have DNS FOX/ABC HD feeds.
ie, buy the box, call customer retention, tell them I have it, demand some credit or cancel my service and I'll return the box?
again I'm just slightly afraid they'll call my bluff :)
Dan

[german72]

As in my previous post, I now have another free hr20 coming 1-2-07.

This makes 3 for me.

There was no charge and I get to keep my existing hr10-250.

It pays to keep on calling if necessary.

Mike:)

[DFDureiko]

Well they say there's a waiting list, but this store has it. so, ya know, instant gratification.
just swap out with the R10, plug in the HDMI cable and have all the HD but a couple of locals till they install the new dish.
hmm wonder if they would hassle me about installing the box myself? it's not brain surgery...........the dish is a different matter. but the reciever, just plug in the two coax, plug in the HDMI, plug in the power and that's it.
I think I'll be running to CC this afternoon about 4pm, and while I'm enroute, my partner will be calling "customer retention"
I should think there would be no wait on the AT-9, but I might be wrong.
the HD in the Airstream spoiled us bigtime :)
Dan

[shortcut]

Well I have been with D* since around '96.
I currently have 4 DRV R10 boxes.
I called and was told HR20 was going to be $299.00 firm because it is "new".
I said thank you and called back, this time telling the CSR that a friend paid $199.00 and then got a $100.00 credit on his bill, making it $99.00.

The CSR said the best she could do for me was meet me half way at $150.00, but that she would ALSO give me $10 off for the next 12mo, AND Free HD for 4mo.

$299.00
-$150.00 (half)
-$120.00 ($10x12mo)
- $40.00 ( HDx4 months)

= $10 in my pocket:)
No complaints here.

Oh and on the waiting list thing...

I did put myself on the waiting list and was called with the automated system about a week or so later.
When I talked with the CSR's they mentioned the waiting list and I said I already got the call. There was no hesitation or time taken to look anything up, they took my word for it. FYI


Hopefully my install on Dec 26 is a good experience and the HR20 works well...

...heres to jumping into the beta test pool feet first...

[DFDureiko]

Well it's over, here's what happend.
While I was driving to the Circuit City in East Springfield Massachussts, 70 miles away. My partner spent from 4.30 - 6.30pm on the phone with DTV, staring with the 800-customer rentention number, and spoke with FOUR people. That's right, TWO WHOLE HOURS.
I paid 299.99 plus 14.00 tax at CC. We got, a 150 cash rebate, upon their recieving ours sales reciept, and 10.00 month off our bill for 10 months, plus 4 months of HD package, free AT-9dish with free install. I immediatly installed the HR20 when I got home at 745pm, it immediatly did a software download/update. and we are recieving all the HD package channels + HD FOX/ABC DNS as we had them on the account anyway. (although we have FOX/ABC/NBC SD, NBC refuesed our mirrored RV waiver.)
I've gone online to change the dish install date but there is no date listed to change yet. I'll have to call them. all we are missing till the new dish is our locals in HD. (right?)
Why do we all have to go thru this? Why do they make it so difficult?
here's hoping the HR20 is a good one!
Dan
Franklin, CT
HR-20-700 & standard reciever in house
HR10-250 in RV

[Nolzman]

Here's my story. Own(ed) two HR10-250's and one R15. One of the HR10's was supposedly under a 5 -year warrenty provided by the dealer. This unit starting to fail (this is another story).

I called the dealer and they said the warrantor was no longer associated with the DTV supplier, but they went to bat for me anyway. To make a long story short, I picked up my new, FREE HR20-700 from the distributor yesterday and installed it last night. I do have to return the failing unit to the dealer, which is no problem.

Here is the deal I struck with Direct before I decided on trading in the failing unit. After some mild negotiating and a slight threat of leaving, I received an upgrade of one of my HR10's, plus the Slimline Dish, multiswitch, and installation for $99.00. I also got my HD package free for 4 months, another $5 off for three months, and free Starz/Encore for three months. With the upgrade I convinced them to allow me to keep the "replaced" HR10. I used the arguement that I paid $1000 for the unit and should not have to turn it in. I also MADE SURE that all this was notated on my account.

So: $99 uprgrade with dish and install
-40 four months HD package
-15 3 month discount
- 30 3 month Starz/Encore
-------------
$ 15

So, I ended up with two HR20's, installation, dish, etc. for $15 out of pocket. Plus I get to keep the HR10, which I can sell on ebay for $300 - $400. I'm happy with the deal.

By the way, I decided to activated the warrenty unit (not provided by DTV) as a leased unit, not owned. Just my personal preference.

[MarkGreiner]

First, let me disclose that I've been with DTV for 3-4 years, and my payment record would be perfect because they automatically charge my credit card. Last fall, I replaced my two UltimateTV receivers with R15s that I lease from DTV. They waived the shipping on both and gave me two receivers for the $99 price of one.

Last week, DTV upgraded me to HD, with a new slimline 5-LNB dish and WB68 multiswitch--I think I only had to pay the $20 shipping for the H20 receiver. The day before that install, I got the call that my upgrade to the HR20 DVR was ready. With no time to adjust the scheduled install, we went ahead with the H20 install. This week I called the CSR to arrange for an install of the HR20.

I wasn't in the mood to get tough with the CSR, I just wanted some kind of deal. He first came back with waiving one of the three payments for the $299 upgrade--effectively a $100 discount. I suggested that since I was thinking of adding HBO--which I didn't currently have--could they work a special pricing in for that. He came back with an additional $10 monthly credit for the $12/mo HBO for a period of 6 months.

Maybe not the best deal out there, but it was pretty easy to get.

Lastly, they couldn't schedule the install until about a month from now--which was unacceptable. He suggested that I get the receiver from BestBuy (which I was able to get that night at the same $299) and that they would still give me the $100 credit plus the HBO deal.

Sounded good enough to me and I'm happy to report that I hooked everything up last night and it is all working great.

[mutodd5]

First of all, thanks to everyone who has posted here as I knew what I should be holding out for in terms of a deal. Thanks also to the many who have mentioned to have them read back the call notes.

I called this afternoon (Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 EST) and had no problems getting in directly to Retention. I told them I was looking to upgrade and the CSR mentioned that I had called back in August and was interested. He proceeded to ask me if I remembered the deal. I told him that I did and that it was for a FREE HR20-700 and 4 months of free HD package. In addition, I told him that they needed to supply an OTA antenna as DTV doesn't have all of the locals in Raleigh. NC being broadcast in HD (only ABC, NBC, and CW, but not CBS or FOX) and also a multiswitch which was a point of contention when the last DTV installer that came out when I moved in June 2005.

Anyways, so here's the deal they offered and said they would be contacting me in 2-3 weeks to schedule the installation. I was off the phone in less than 20 minutes. The only other thing that I wanted was a second HR20-700 for free, but I don't have a second HD TV yet anyways. The excuse was that they were backordered and that they couldn't give out more than one per customer, but that I should call back after 6 months and they can probably work something out.

- Free HR20-700
- Free Dish
- Free OTA
- Free multiswitch
- Free installation
- Free 4 Months of HD package

Good luck. Hope this helps!

Regards,
Todd

[Rob13]

Back in June, I upgrade my prev HD setup to the AT9 dish and H20 HD rec. Took this deal cause the HD Tivo D* was offering wouldn't pick up the MPEG4 locals, but D* HD DVR coming in the fall would.

My question, has anyone swapped their H20 rec for the HR20? Or are you upgrading a previous HD DVR?

I'll probably end up calling the CSR just to check on the deals and this waiting list, but I would appreciate some feedback.

Thanks.

PS: How do you end up w/ the free programming on top of the discounts?

[DFDureiko]

Wow Todd, I wish we could all get hold of that CSR you dealt with.
you were very lucky.
Dan

[DennyC]

I was off the phone in less than 20 minutes.

Well, you beat me there-- I called this morning just after 11:00am and didn't get off the phone with them until nearly 2:00pm! I must've been put on hold at least 20 times. Thankfully, I have that kind of time-- and thanks to a speakerphone and a second phone line, it really didn't infringe on my day that much (I put the CSR on hold a couple of times as I finished up a call on the other line-- he was quite gracious about it. :)

Got scheduled for January 2, which I promptly changed to December 23 online. I'm a new subscriber and negotiated my deal (documented in the notes) when I signed on-- the problem was finding a way to get their computer to accept it. Eventually they did: $200 for the receiver, minus $150 credit to my account, minus $20 per month for six months, so I'm coming out $70 ahead on the deal. As soon as this order is complete, I can order a second HR20 for $200-- so my net cost will be $65 each.

[RollTideinHD]

Just got my HR20 installed today. What an ordeal.

I was originally going to cancel D* to go over to comcast cause I was getting a bundling package with cable tv, local phone & cable modem. I signed up for them and called over to bellsouth & D* to cancel. They both gave me price cuts to a point where it was better than the package from comcast.

D* gave me:
-$299 credit for HR20 since I bought one myself from Best Buy online
-$15/month for one year
4 months free HD package
6 months free Showtime
Free Dish
Free Install

I was happy with that and had the installer come in today only to find out that they can't run a 2nd cable behind my wall and would only run along the baseboard. Well that is a no go. I was going to just agree to have one tuner hooked but then felt like I shouldn't pay for a 2nd tuner if I'm not using it. I asked for some discount since i'm not using this 2nd tuner. They said they wouldn't do it so I said I want to cancel cause its a matter of principle cause you want to pay for what you use. I was looking for anything, even half the $5.99 I would pay for the lease since i'm using half the SAT tuners. The CSR wouldn't budge so I said to go ahead and cancel my order and cancel my account. He said ok and we hung up.

I told the installer sorry for the trouble and said I wont be needing the install and sent him on his way. After about 15 minutes reviewing what just happend since I really wanted this HD DVR for the bowl games, I decided to call back and try to see if another CSR would understand my situation. As soon as I called back in to D*, I asked to be forwarded to the cancelation dept and I was. I got a lady CSR and she was very nice. I told her my situation and without any argument, she gave me the following in addition to what I received above:

-$150 additional credit
-$5 off each month fon HD Package for a year after my 4 free months are used

I wasn't expecting this much but I am not going to argue. I just wanted something for not being able to use the 2nd SAT tuner.

****Of course all of this is with a 2 yr contract****

I had the installer's cell phone number and asked him to come back if he wasn't busy with another order. He came back and I was up and running by noon.

NOTE: I've noticed that if you are a guy and you get a male CSR, they don't help you out as much on the credits as a female would. This first CSR that didn't do anything for me was male and the second one was female. Haha, I think I pissed the male CSR off because I gave him an analogy of buying a new car. You wouldn't want to have a car with only 3 wheels.

I'm happy with D*, I don't want anymore and I look forward to a more stable HR20 and all the bells & whistles that will eventually go with it.

:D

[CliffV]

I picked up my HR20 at Circuit City for $299. I actually grabbed one off a cart they were using to restock the shelves.

Once I got home, I called D*. I described my situation to the CSR and asked for $299 to be credited to my account. The CSR said she was only only authorized to offer me 4 months of free HD package. When I said that wouldn't work for me, the CSR said that only the "installation" department was authorized to make any other deals. The CSR connected me.

The "installation" rep started by offering me the same 4 free months of HD package. I said that really didn't work for me. The rep asked my why I thought I "deserved" a free DVR. I said that Comcast was offering them. The rep asked if I could hold. When she came back online, she said she noticed that I owned an HR-10. She said that once HR-20 supplies got better, D* planned to offer a $200 discount on upgrading HR10s to HR20s. So she offered to credit my account $200 and upgrade my dish to an AT-9 for free.

I accepted that offer. My total cost was $99. I was happy with that.

[bigalpo]

upon some advice i saw on the site, i did the following: i have been on the waiting list for about 3 weeks now and still no call, and i just upgraded to HD 2 weeks ago and got a new dish, H20 receiver and install for free, plus 4 months of free HD. so i called DTV yesterday and simply told them that my wife told me that a message was left on my machine that my DVR was in and ready to be ordered. the CSR put me on hold for a few minutes and then came back and said that she could place the order. NICE! of course she wanted to charge me $299+ tax and shipping = $321. i told her that comcast offered a free DVR and all sorts of other package credits and she put me on hold again. now she comes back and says they can take $100 off the bill. i tell her to connect me with customer retention. i give my story to retention and once again mention the free DVR from comcast and the fact that i have been a loyal customer for 10 years. once again i'm put on hold and then she comes back and offers the DVR for free, but i have to pay the shipping - $19.95........................um...........OK! the whole process took about 15 minutes. good luck out there. :D

[rich68]

Hello!!!

I wanted to chime in and give everyone an update to my latest saga with DTV. I knew it could not go smoothly :-) When I originally called customer retention last week I wanted 3 HR20s and they stated they could only do 1 free at this time. I then asked if I went out and purchased one at a retailer if they would credit the cost. They stated yes. This call happened last Friday.

So I stewed about it and called back yesterday (Tuesday) to pull the trigger. Got through to a lady (regular CSR) and stated the deal I was given by customer retention. She said there was no notes in the account, but she would honor the terms plus give me 4 months free of HD as well. Wow!!! I said cool sign me up :-) So we started and she went setup the free HR20 and stated that I would have to wait until January 3rd to get the free one as I had received my H20s on July 3rd and I had to wait 6 months for my next "deal". I said that was fine (since it is really only a week or so away). I then asked if I go out and buy my hr20 today can I get the credit issued before Jan 3rd. "Yes" was the reply "No problem". Great I thought :-) I had her read the notes back to me on the account that she made and got in the truck to go over to Circuit City where I bought the HR20 for 299.99 minus a 10% off coupon I had. Total with tax came to $283.49.

Could not get it hooked up last night so it had to wait until today. I hooked it up.. It downloaded the new code 0x10b and I called and activated my new hr20. Wooohoooo!

Now the story starts to get interesting... I was transferred back to customer retention as they are the ones that can give the big credits and the guy I spoke to said "sure I can give you that credit". "I will give you the $99.00 credit as it states in the notes" he said.. Screeching brakes in my head went off.... I said wait the deal was for the full amount of the hr20. He said the notes say that it is for a HD receiver and NOT a HD DVR (hr20) receiver. Hmmm.. I was a victim of fine print... Shame on me for not paying close attention to what the lady said yesterday. Either way I stuck to my guns.. I said the deal was not for an HD receiver. I already have 2 of those.. The deal was for an HR20. Pregnant pause... He said he could do $150.00 credit and then 12 months of a $10.00 credit on my account. Which would bring the amount up to $270.00. Pregnant pause as I did not want to say anything. He said would that be ok? I said no you can credit me for the full amount... Another pause.. He then said I can do a $200.00 credit how about that? I said plus the $10.00 per month credit? No, he said. I relayed I was really pissed in a political way :-). Another pause... Then he said well "what if" I could do the $200.00 plus the $10.00 a month for 12 months. Hmmm.. Wheels turning in my head.. That was a total of $320.00. I was ahead now :-) I said sure I will do that deal. After about 5 minutes on hold he had set everything up.

So the bottom line deal here...

$283.49 for the HR20 from Circuit City
$200.00 account credit immediately
$120.00 $10.00 per month spread out over 12 months

Ahead $36.51 :-)

January 3rd I get a free HR20 installed plus HD package free for 4 months.

Adding the $40.00 for the HD package I will be ahead $76.51.

Next it will be time to list my two H20 (HD Receivers) on ebay as they are not leases :-) Even more in the green then!


Lessons learned.. Listen for the fine print :-)

Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday!!!

Thanks,
Rich

[tanmanusa]

Got an early Christmas present from our kids. They bought us a Vizio 50" Plasma HDTV. We have two R-15's. The picture on the plasma is outstanding even with the R-15. But of course I want HDTV and I definitely want the HR-20. Just got off the phone with Directv. To say the least I thought I would have to negotiate and or threaten to leave DTV to get a deal on the HR-20. The first and only agent I talked to made the experience worth the call. She looked at my record first and seemed surprise that I had been with them since October 1995. Without even negotiating she offered me the following...

Free Hr-20...I pay $19.95 for shipping only
Free Installation
Free Dish
Free Multi-Switch
Free HD Programming for one year.

She gave me an order number and read back everything she had offered me and put into the record. She also volunteered to give me her name and badge number if there were any problems with a return phone call to DTV.

She couldn't get me an install date, but gave me a number to call if I have not heard from installation within 72 hours.

I'm thrilled with the deal I received and that agent I talked to at DTV made this Christmas for my wife and I much merrier.

[St8kout]

Well, here's my story. I thought I had fulfilled my obligation but just found out I still have a year to go for the H10 I got last year.

I just got the automated phone call that the HR20 is available. The first CSR insists that no one gets it for free. $100 off is the best they can do.

The second CSR is less friendly; it's "accept the $100 off or have a nice day-click" type of conversation.

Looks like they're trying to stop the flood of phone calls wanting it for free. It seems you have to be free of the contract and ready to cancel before you'll get any good offers. Seems my options are to pay $199 plus shipping/installation of new dish now, or wait until next Dec and then get whatever new equipment may be available for free.

I feel like waiting for now:(

[bobnielsen]

Well, here's my story. I thought I had fulfilled my obligation but just found out I still have a year to go for the H10 I got last year.

I just got the automated phone call that the HR20 is available. The first CSR insists that no one gets it for free. $100 off is the best they can do.

The second CSR is less friendly; it's "accept the $100 off or have a nice day-click" type of conversation.

Looks like they're trying to stop the flood of phone calls wanting it for free. It seems you have to be free of the contract and ready to cancel before you'll get any good offers. Seems my options are to pay $199 plus shipping/installation of new dish now, or wait until next Dec and then get whatever new equipment may be available for free.

I feel like waiting for now:(

The HR20 is becoming more available, but is still in short supply. I figured paying $199 is better than $299 and ordered one yesterday. I already have the 5 LNB dish and there was no charge shown for shipping/installation (although I don't know why they need to send an installer). Heck, $199 is a lot less than I paid for my HDVR2 several years ago.

Directv isn't in business to supply everyone with freebies.

[St8kout]

Directv isn't in business to supply everyone with freebies.

They are if they now consider all equipment as leased, plus you're signing a new two-year contract and paying an extra $72/yr fee for the dvr.

Looks like they're saving them for anyone who could leave them for dish/cable. If they already have you by the short hairs for another year, there is no incentive for them to give it away.

Wait 'till next year when I can go to Dish:)

[AlbertZeroK]

They are if they now consider all equipment as leased, plus you're signing a new two-year contract and paying an extra $72/yr fee for the dvr.

Better than paying tivo's monthly fee. And DISH has a DVR fee every month too. They do have a nice two room DVR, but it's somewhat limited.

But I'd gladly pay $72/year for my DVR fee. We have 7 DVR's and love it.

[skycowboy]

I ordered today, $99.00 + $19.95 installed (new 5 lnb dish), but with 3 $33 credits over 3 months, comes to $19.95.

I am keeping the hr10-250 that I purchased, and am moving it to another room, hooked to the 5 lnb dish.

The other 3 receivers will stay on the original 3 lnb dish.

Worked it out with no hassles at all with the first CSR that answered. This was about 10a.m. CA time today.

[Steve0296]

I finally broke down and called today - I really don't like haggling. The first CSR I spoke to put me on hold for 3-4 minutes, then offered $199 with a $100 credit, plus $19.95 installation. He threw in free Showtime for 3 months. Not as good a deal as some are getting, but the $100 price point is what I was looking for, so I was happy.

Customer since 1996 or 1997, no premium packages except NHL Center Ice. I had a year commitment left on my HR10-250 which I will keep, was told the HR20 will extend the commitment by a year.

[Blankman]

Thanks everyone for all the info in this thread. I just spent 3+ hours on the phone. It took 3 different phone calls, and 7 different reps. Here is what I got.

2 - HR20's plus the new dish and install all for $99 plus HD package free for 1 year.

The first time I called I talked to a rep that transfered me to "another department" that might be better able to help me.

The offers from start to finish went like this:

2 HR20's for 598
1 HR20 for 299 ( I was told that since they were in such high demand that I could not get a second one for any price until another 6 months had passed)
1 HR20 for 199 the other for 299
1 HR20 for free, the other for 299
1 HR20 for free, the other for 199
Finally 1 HR20 for free and the other for 99 and free HD package for 1 Year.

Each time I calld I was transferred to a second department. The third time I called I was transferred to a second department and finally to a third department.

The final person I spoke with gave me some info about what I had just gone through. I commented that with all the bargaining and counter offers, that I felt like I had spent the last 2 hours at a used car lot. She said the each level or department is only authorized to give or offer a certain amount or deal. She said that in her department what is offered depends on how long the customer has been with D* and to some extent how deserving the rep thinks the situation/customer is, all balanced with how strongly they feel the possibility is that the customer may cancel the service. At this level, part of the decision is at the reps discretion. At the lower levels I was told only so much can be done/offered, but if the customer was still unhappy or wanted to discontinue service, that they should always be transferred to the next level. That did not happen with my first two calls. Both of those calls ended with me saying I didn't think the D* offer was good enough considering what my local cable company was offering. Both of the first two calls (which were both transferred to the second department) ended with, "I would like to help you, but that is the best I can offer you".

I was very polite throughout, but I was persistent. I treated everyone I spoke to with respect, but acted like I totally shocked that I had to pay $$$ for HD equipment with D* when my local cable company would get me started with HD for almost nothing, and not make me commit to 2 years of service.

I didn't mention the forums or the internet and I didn't refer to the HR20 by model name. I just made myself sound like an uninformed consumer that wanted HD in his house without paying a lot of money for it.

It really did feel like the ordeal that is common when buying a used car.

I am happy though, because I didn't wan't to leave D*.

The install date is 1/9.

[NJHarry]

I appreciate all the information I've learned on this board. The information was a big help. I called DTV and inquired about any deals or promotions on upgrades to HD and DVR's. The agent offered me a new dish, but said the H20 was $299. So as another poster suggested, I sent an email. I received an email back in about 2 hours and a call in about 6 hours. The rep was very nice, she was from retention, and she offered me the H20 for $99 +$19.95 along with the free dish upgrade and installation.
Thanks for all your help! And Happy Holidays to everyone!

[german72]

I appreciate all the information I've learned on this board. The information was a big help. I called DTV and inquired about any deals or promotions on upgrades to HD and DVR's. The agent offered me a new dish, but said the H20 was $299. So as another poster suggested, I sent an email. I received an email back in about 2 hours and a call in about 6 hours. The rep was very nice, she was from retention, and she offered me the H20 for $99 +$19.95 along with the free dish upgrade and installation.
Thanks for all your help! And Happy Holidays to everyone!


We do hope that you mean the hr-20?:)

[denno]

Called retention & ended up with the Hr20 for $66+19.95, with a $5 discount on the HD package for 6 months!

It took some persistence to get past their initial $199 offer...

[NJHarry]

We do hope that you mean the hr-20?:)

Thanks for the help with the model numbers, I'm still learning. Yes I do mean the HR20. I'll keep reading to catch up with all of you veterans of the board. Hopefully I can provide some info back in return.

[ljauss]

I've been reading here for a few weeks, since I was told we're getting an HD for Xmas.

I've subscribed to the Sunday ticket for 3 years now, so one call and I got:

HR-20 for free, no shipping cost.
4 months free HD programming

Getting installed when I get home in January. The installation guy (also a fan of the NFL team I root for) said, "Man, no one's getting this for free, I'm impressed". Frankly, I'm impressed too.

[alv]

I got one for 19.95 handling fee after a lot of arguing that I was quite upset about paying original price for an HR10. 2 phone calls and a hour on the phone the second time.

[BluewookieJim]

I got through this process yesterday. It was relatively painless. I called the main number, asked for retention, spent about 20 minutes on the phone with the rep.

I've had D* for about 8 years now, just NFL:ST for the first 4 years, since then I've had Total Choice Plus, 1 Premium, and NFL:ST.

Within the first 5 minutes of the call, I was offered $199 + s/h for the HR20, and 4 months of free HD. I just continued with a pleasant conversation, and about 10 minutes later I had it down to $99 + s/h, 4 free months of HD, 1 free month of Showtime, and a commitment for a new dish, and multiswitch.

I ended up paying $199, + tax and s/h (~ $243), and got an instant $100 credit on my bill, which I verified on the web site. My balance is now about - $26.

I'm sure I could've gotten it reduced even further, but it was a quick and pleasant call, and I didn't mind paying $99.

My current setup is 2 hughes D-Tivo's, and a single standalone box. I'm going to give them back the standalone box when the installer comes, and get the HR20 installed in the same location as one of the D-Tivo's.

I've currently got 3 coax runs coming into the house at that location, 2 to the D-Tivo and 1 for the powered multi-switch. I'm guessing they are going to need to add another 3 (2 sat in's and 1 OTA in, feel free to correct me if I'm wrong), so I'll need to have that planned out well in advance so it doesn't get sloppy.

The only concern I really have is the install date they gave me, Feb 7th, 2007. I was hoping for something a bit sooner.

[chrisfowler99]

With DirecTV since 2003 with NFL: ST every year (SF when it was offered). Currently have an HR10-250.

HR20 and an R15, dish and installation for $99 + S/H & tax.

Nothing painful about the call at all.

Scheduled for a Jan 10th installation, just rescheduled for this Saturday online. Not sure how well that's gonna work.

[awax]

Been a DTV sub w/ TC Premier for 3 yrs. and had NFLST for 1 and got it for $299 + 19 shipping, then they gave me a $250 one time credit, $20 off TC premier for 12 months and the HD pak free for four months. Also they will be out on the 4th to install the 5 lnb dish. I was pretty happy.

[kintaro]

I just got off the phone with D* and I was offered free HR20 with no shipping charge. :D

My situation was as follows, On 12/26 I was offered the HR20 for $50 w/4 months of free HD Package. I checked my account this morning and saw that I only received a credit for $150, not the $250 I was qouted. I called and explained that I was told a $250 credit would be applied. The rep said the notes stated $150 off and thats the best they could do. I told her to cancel the order because that's not what I agreed to.
So I check online to make sure everything looks right, she reversed the $150 but never cancelled the order, didn't credit the shipping charge on the "cancelled" order, and I was showing $66.33 for who knows what.
I called back and explained my previous calls and say that my charges were not reversed completely, the rep places me on hold and a few minutes later asks me how does the equipment for free sound. I couldn't argue with that, In fact I was happy with the $250 off they originally quoted, so she removed the appropriate charges.
One concern I have is, she kept the original order since it was never cancelled, and she never applied a credit to the account. I'm not sure if a credit needs to be placed on the free equipment or not. I'll keep my eyes on my account though.

[jmhays]

Man I LOVE you guys!! (oops! DId I say that out loud?)

I was originally happy getting the basic HD receiver for free plus 4 months free of HD programing. I called last Tuesday and got this offer (HD Receiver for $99 plus a $99 credit to the account. Plus free HD package for 4 months and free Showtime for 6 months). After reading through many of these pages I got real encouraged and tried again.

I have been a DirecTV customer for the past 2-3 years, ever since the HD Tivo came out. I just have the basic programming from DirecTV, and I get my local HD programming OTA. I called DirecTV and told them that I wanted to cancel my account, that Comcast could offer the same package for $10 cheaper per month. Of course I did verify this on the Comcast website before I called DirecTV.

I had a very pleasant conversation with my customer service person and they were able to surpass my expectations. With very little back and forth, I now have a new HD DVR coming from DirecTV for $99. Even better, they will be crediting my account for $99 PLUS giving me a $10 credit each month for the next 12 months.

On top of that, they still gave me the 4 months of free HD programming that the original rep offered me PLUS 6 months of free Showtime. I usually do not watch Showtime, but what the heck, if it is free, I'll take it.

[marksman]

I didn't know about all of this because we kind of fell in the HR20 once I got a new tv, and wanted to hook up the HR10-250 but the HDMI port was bad. We had never used it before, because the tv we had initially did not have an HDMI Port.

Anyways, they were fairly accommodating, providing the unit for free, discounting the monthly dvr fee for the receiver every month, and providing free installation and the dish. I honestly did not know how much the boxes were at the time talking to them, and I was more annoyed about the 2 year commitment. Of course I have been with them forever, so it was a little silly to be worried about that.


Already got the box, only took a few days before/after Christmas to get it. Waiting on installation now on the dish, which is another story.

All in all happy, although we will see how long it takes to get them to install the dish, as it seems they are having major backlog issues.

[cstewa]

I have been a customer for six or seven years and get TC premier and NFLST every year....I thought I was a good customer....They tell me I am "A" list every time I call...but wow it took some patience to get good deal on a HR20....I told them I was willing to pay 100.00...but they gave it to me for free with a new two year commitment....so I am on board for another two years...

[Rikerz]

D* just called me and offered me the HR20 for free + $19.95 Shipping and I turned them down, waiting for a better offer. Did I do the right thing, I think so. The "guy" would not offer me anything more and I was quoting him the scoop from here. I will call back, 2nd time maybe a charm?

Jeff

[amtrucker22]

D* just called me and offered me the HR20 for free + $19.95 Shipping and I turned them down, waiting for a better offer. Did I do the right thing, I think so. The "guy" would not offer me anything more and I was quoting him the scoop from here. I will call back, 2nd time maybe a charm?

Jeff

I would of took that all day long... I wouldn't be greedy. What else are you looking for, credits?

[Harvick]

Hello all, new to the site...finding lots of good info here. So I called and threatened to cancel my sub, because dish offered me a free 2 room hd dvr. Rep said he would match the offer with a free hr20, 4 months hd service, 6 months showtime, $5 permonth reduced hbo. I asked, how about a second free hd dvr for my other room (dish dvr handles two room)? He said they have never given away two hd dvr's to one household, but he was able to discount it by 50%.
First dvr was installed on 26th, on wait list for #2 dvr.

[Clint Lamor]

The Dish DVR will play to two rooms but is only one actual DVR.

[howdy29]

I went the e-mail route after not getting much satisfaction after a couple of calls. I got $99 ("price of standard dvr") with $10/mo off for 12 months.

[popup44]

Called today and got a free HR20 that I will instal myself. Too many problems with D instalation people not showing up or doing a very poor job. She said something about being an "A List" customer, what ever that is, and this was one of the perks.

[geoliquid]

I went the e-mail route after not getting much satisfaction after a couple of calls. I got $99 ("price of standard dvr") with $10/mo off for 12 months.

What address did you use? I want to add a second hd dvr but noticed the website isn't offering it for $199 anymore. It's now back to $299.

[hairymoot]

I called and mentioned the Dish Network deal or DVR for $200 and 20 dollars credit for 10 months. I asked if they could compete with them and I was transfered.

The deal I got was $150 with a 10 dollar credit for 12 months. They are splitting the $150 dollar payment for the next 3 months. I took this deal and I'm happy with it. I've been a DTV customer for almost 4 years now.

Hairy

[cmcnally]

Called on friday I am getting 2 HDDVR's for $99 plus $20 per month credit for 6 months

[jeepers128]

Last night after calling several times I was finally helped. I got the HR20 for $99 Free HD for 1 year, Showtime 6 Months, Stars 5 Months and replaced my stanard IRD with another one and all shipping free. Not is good as completely free but I'll take it since I don't get NFL or any other packages. I've been with them since 99 and haven't changed receviers yet. It's time now.

[ElVee]

I'm a DirecTv subscriber for 9 years (Total Choce Preimere). We're moving to a new house and adding a second plasma requiring a new HD DVR.

I called yesterday and got the following:

Free HR20-700
Free D11 receiver (to replace my very old Sony tuner)
Free 5 LNB dish
Free Zinwell WB68 (possibly WB616 if the installer has it on the truck)
Free installation
Free HDTV package (save $10/month) for 1 year

How did I do? Could I have done better?

[zipbags]

I got mine free including shipping and install. :) Just hoping its a good box and they worked out all of the kinks.

[nikwax]

I just got $66.33 for the HD DVR, LNB, cable, install, free HD programming for four months, $10/month discount for 12 months. I'm happy.

[TheRobber]

You Guys ROCK.....I originally ordered a HR20 on December 29. It was too be $299 with a $100 programming credit. On top of that I was to get the standard 4 month of HDTV prog. for fee, discounted Showtime. I read some posts tonight and decided to try my luck even though I had already placed an order for the unit. I acted as if Dish network was in contact with me tonight. I got on their web site to see what the offers were.....And yes all is well, not free but better then ehat I had just a few days ago.....HR20 for $99.00, 4 months HD program, Starz and Encore free for 3 months/ Showtime for $2.00 for the next 6 months and finally, a $5.00 overall credit on my bill for an additional 3 months! I'm like'n it !!!!!

[dsm]

Got an HR20 for free including installation with 2 year lease commitment. The pole I have in my yard was 1.25" Outer Diameter and the dish must be on a 2" outer diameter. I tried to find a coupling to step up to 2", but had no luck so he planted another pole. I had to run out and get some sacks of concrete. He did the whole install in about 2 hours including digging the hole. He did not cut down the old pole so I've got to find a pipe cutter to cut this off at ground level.

The only other annoyance was that they told me yesterday they would get back to me in 72 hours with an install date as everyone was booked. The installer calls this morning and says he'll be here in 10 minutes. Fortunately my wife was home to take the call. I guess I shouldn't complain about an install coming in early after other comments.

The unit got the latest update in a few minutes. Hung shortly thereafter while using the guide after navigating to a channel with no signal (sigh), but I rebooted and it's been Ok now and I can't even repro the hang. Looks like you really do need to reboot after this latest update.

-steve

[skycowboy]

I ordered today, $99.00 + $19.95 installed (new 5 lnb dish), but with 3 $33 credits over 3 months, comes to $19.95.

I am keeping the hr10-250 that I purchased, and am moving it to another room, hooked to the 5 lnb dish.

The other 3 receivers will stay on the original 3 lnb dish.

Worked it out with no hassles at all with the first CSR that answered. This was about 10a.m. CA time today.

Delivery and installation was scheduled for today... 8 a.m. to noon. I thought it was 1 to 4, and came home from work at 1 to wait. At 4 I called D* CS and asked where the tech was.

I was told "Oh, we have had equipment delivery problems, and all installations are now 'unscheduled'. Someone will be calling you soon."

I allowed as how I had taken off of work, and wouldn't it have been nice to notify me in advance. No reasonable response.

I then noticed that the amount of the order was $235, not $99, or $120. I asked what was up and explained the deal as I understood it originally. She told me that there was no way that they could credit like that.

I asked to be transferred to Customer Retention, went on hold and was eventually cut off.

I'm thinking I should cancel and re-order.

What a waste of time... I have to move all of my units back to their previous places until I get the new one.

Bummer.

:mad:

[TAnsley]

I have been lurking for some time. Great info. Based on the deals I have seen here, it sounds like I got a pretty good deal.

I currently have the HR10 and wanted to see what I could get the new HR20 for. I called the standard CS line and talked to them about the new DVR and that I was concerned about such a large up front cost for a lease box...same ol' story listed here many times ;)

The deal she gave me was $199...that was it.

I talked to her some more and finally asked if I could talk to someone in Retention. She said no problem, she made the notes on the offer she had made.

I waited about 10 minutes and talked to Tabitha...great person, very helpful

Here is what I got after about 10 minutes of conversation:

HR20 $199
HR10-HR20 Upgrade Offer $ -99
TC Premier 6mo $20 off $-120
HD Tier 4 mo free $ -40
Ship/Handle Fee waived $ -20

Net: $80 CREDIT

Thanks for everything guys. Great thread!


AustinA6
HR10-250
HR20-700 (coming soon!!!)
DirecTV since 1997

[dsm]

As I posted above, I got the upgrade for free but committed for 2 years. Other people who are getting this for free are you being asked to commit for 2 years? I don't see mention of this and I wonder if I shouldn't have balked. They made no mention of the recommit to me until it was installed.

-steve

[Clint Lamor]

As I posted above, I got the upgrade for free but committed for 2 years. Other people who are getting this for free are you being asked to commit for 2 years? I don't see mention of this and I wonder if I shouldn't have balked. They made no mention of the recommit to me until it was installed.

-steve

I don't think anyone has a choice on the comittment regardless of what they paid for it.

[bidger]

Activating advanced equipment such as HD receivers, SD DVRs, or HD DVRs. carries a 2 year commitment.

[aeffen]

I just got off the phone and the best they would do at call 1 was 199 and a 10 month credit for 12 months.
Oh they also said they don't have a retention department anymore only a "disconnect" department

[Tom M]

After several conversations with multiple CSRs and Retention over a discrepancy in what my remaining commitment was I was able to come away with the following.

HR20 for $199 spread across 3 months
Instant Credit <$150>
Credit <$120> - TC Premier $20/6 mos
HD 4 mos free (everybody should get this as it's part of the hd promo)
HD 6 mos free after the 4 mos runs out
Free dish/install

So I'm basically paying $49 for the HR20 and getting a credit of $120 spread across 6 months as well as getting an additional 6 months of HD for free.

This does carry the 2 year commitment that will start after the install is complete.

I was ready to move to E* if needed but the pricing would have been pretty much even until their new prices kick in on 2/1/07. Since I've been with D* since 1998 I'm satisfied with what I just got and I get to keep my Ultimate TV for now ;)

[jwalker]

Here is my experience so far with trying to get ANY sort of a deal on the HR20. I've been a customer for just over 3 years, with basic service and sports pack and the SETANTA service as well. I'm also out of my commitment and can cancel at anytime.

1st Call - I mentioned specific deals from competitors and was knowledgable about the that equipment I wanted. The best she could do was $299 + shipping and would absolutely not budge nor transfer me. "That's the best we can do". Yeah right.

2nd Call - After asking whether or not I had any commitment left I was put on hold and then told that their systems were down and they would call me back as soon as things were fixed - never got a return call.

3rd Call - Was told that I was under no commitment whatsoever and was transfered only once. Both representatives told me $299 and more or less refused to make any sort of deal with me despite me being a loyal customer yada yada.

4th Call - Transfered 3 times, each time told $299 for HR20. I said this was a ridiculous price for something that I'm leasing AND agreeing to a 2 year commitment and was told "The HR20 is really $750 so you're getting a great deal". To this I said flat out that I wanted to cancel my service and the guy said "No problem" and said he was transfering me - this resulted in me being disconnected and hung up on.

How in the world are you guys getting these deals? I've tried everything under the sun AND I'm not even under a commitment to them anymore! Very frustrated here.

[PlainBill]

Here is my experience so far with trying to get ANY sort of a deal on the HR20. I've been a customer for just over 3 years, with basic service and sports pack and the SETANTA service as well. I'm also out of my commitment and can cancel at anytime.

1st Call - I mentioned specific deals from competitors and was knowledgable about the that equipment I wanted. The best she could do was $299 + shipping and would absolutely not budge nor transfer me. "That's the best we can do". Yeah right.


I'm not sure what the problem is. I've been with DirecTV for about 8 years. I just went on DirecTV's website, signed in, and followed the links to upgrade my equipment. The cost for a HR20 was $199, including a new dish and professional installation. It seems ridiculous that they would want to charge you $100 for talking to a csr.

I would suggest you verify you get the same price online, then call back. If you fail to get any satisfaction, insist on talking to a supervisor. I'm not going to point a finger at any particular posts, but some of them certainly set off my 'b******t' detector. On the other hand, I would expect substantial discounts for an "A" level customer.

PlainBill

[Joe166]

I called early last month and the best price I could get was $299, but they agreed to a $100 credit and $10 per month for six months on sports programming. By the time they got around to calling for an installation, I went on line and saw that for "a good payment record" they had the dish, receiver and installation for $199. I just called and confirmed that I was still getting my $100 credit and $10 per month. I guess I could have pushed further, but $39 seems reasonable. I printed the offer sheet from the website and got the name of the CSR, but I am not sure this is enough. Any suggestions?

[etchasketch]

THIS THREAD SHOULD BE DELETED!

Some (read: many) here were / are gaming the system and gouging the provider. Small wonder if the CSR network clamps down on allowing reasonable consideration though some who are calling have a genuine beef. They were giving away the farm in discounts and credits. This stressed the supply pipeline and encouraged call-back roulette (which doubles / triples wait time on phone cue) for a pack of giddy-gimme-vultures.

Apologies to those who have a legitimate problem.

etchasketch

ps -might the folks at Dtv have seen the thread? Duh. Thank the many Einsteins who mentioned it in their phone call to the CSR network.

[Phil T]

THIS THREAD SHOULD BE DELETED!

Some (read: many) here were / are gaming the system and gouging the provider. .

DirecTV could stop the discounts or raise the price of the HR 20 at any time if they wanted to. It is called keeping your customer base happy or (something we have too little of today) customer service!!

[hillman]

Here's what we got today - I don't see these posts as gouging since we were seriously considering switching to DISH and no threats of violence nor rudeness were required to get Directv to offer us the deal. Besides, the CSR we dealt with gave many of the extras to us without us asking. Here's the summary:

We are current subscribers ~3 years, have a DirecTV Tivo DVR and HD receiver. I set my wife on them to do the initial negotiations and was planning to work clean up if necessary, but neve had to. Basically, we went in wanting two HD DVRs for free (at least after discounts). The deals was accomplished with one call (two reps) in a couple of hours. It took about an hour for the second rep to figure out how to order the second HD DVR.

2 HD DVR (I'm assuming they are the HR-20s) - $49.99 x 2
1 yr - $10 off/ month (basically free HD)

6 mo - free DVR programming - $5.99/mo (I think she threw this in because we were on hold so long for the second HD DVR)

6 mo SHO - free
3 mo STARS - free
6 mo HBO - costs $2/mo

Net result - 2 Free HD DVRs, 3-6 mo premium channels and an additional $24

I'm not sure what programming package we started with, but I believe that it was/is one step up from the basic package.

Also, as some have stated, the installation was required - I have an appointment for installation on 20 Jan and there is a 2 yr commitment.

One last thought - My service was ~$60/mo. If the receivers cost $299 each, I willhave paid for both receivers in ~10 months with an additional 14 mo commitment to DirecTV - thats less than half off to keep me as a customer for two years and the HD DVR still belong to DirecTV.

One question - They said that we do not need the 5 prong dish - we already had HD service with the three prong dish. Based on some of the posts that I read, it sounded like the 5 prong dish was required. Am I losing anything by not having the dish upgraded? Thanks,

Brian

[whsbuss]

Here's what we got today - I don't see these posts as gouging since we were seriously considering switching to DISH and no threats of violence nor rudeness were required to get Directv to offer us the deal. Besides, the CSR we dealt with gave many of the extras to us without us asking. Here's the summary:

We are current subscribers ~3 years, have a DirecTV Tivo DVR and HD receiver. I set my wife on them to do the initial negotiations and was planning to work clean up if necessary, but neve had to. Basically, we went in wanting two HD DVRs for free (at least after discounts). The deals was accomplished with one call (two reps) in a couple of hours. It took about an hour for the second rep to figure out how to order the second HD DVR.

2 HD DVR (I'm assuming they are the HR-20s) - $49.99 x 2
1 yr - $10 off/ month (basically free HD)

6 mo - free DVR programming - $5.99/mo (I think she threw this in because we were on hold so long for the second HD DVR)

6 mo SHO - free
3 mo STARS - free
6 mo HBO - costs $2/mo

Net result - 2 Free HD DVRs, 3-6 mo premium channels and an additional $24

I'm not sure what programming package we started with, but I believe that it was/is one step up from the basic package.

Also, as some have stated, the installation was required - I have an appointment for installation on 20 Jan and there is a 2 yr commitment.

One last thought - My service was ~$60/mo. If the receivers cost $299 each, I willhave paid for both receivers in ~10 months with an additional 14 mo commitment to DirecTV - thats less than half off to keep me as a customer for two years and the HD DVR still belong to DirecTV.

One question - They said that we do not need the 5 prong dish - we already had HD service with the three prong dish. Based on some of the posts that I read, it sounded like the 5 prong dish was required. Am I losing anything by not having the dish upgraded? Thanks,

Brian

You will need the 5-LNB dish to receive local station HD programming if available in your area. As discussed in the forum, DTV may move all HD to the new sats which will require all of us to upgrade to the new dish.

[jwalker]

Here is my experience so far with trying to get ANY sort of a deal on the HR20. I've been a customer for just over 3 years, with basic service and sports pack and the SETANTA service as well. I'm also out of my commitment and can cancel at anytime.

1st Call - I mentioned specific deals from competitors and was knowledgable about the that equipment I wanted. The best she could do was $299 + shipping and would absolutely not budge nor transfer me. "That's the best we can do". Yeah right.

2nd Call - After asking whether or not I had any commitment left I was put on hold and then told that their systems were down and they would call me back as soon as things were fixed - never got a return call.

3rd Call - Was told that I was under no commitment whatsoever and was transfered only once. Both representatives told me $299 and more or less refused to make any sort of deal with me despite me being a loyal customer yada yada.

4th Call - Transfered 3 times, each time told $299 for HR20. I said this was a ridiculous price for something that I'm leasing AND agreeing to a 2 year commitment and was told "The HR20 is really $750 so you're getting a great deal". To this I said flat out that I wanted to cancel my service and the guy said "No problem" and said he was transfering me - this resulted in me being disconnected and hung up on.

How in the world are you guys getting these deals? I've tried everything under the sun AND I'm not even under a commitment to them anymore! Very frustrated here.

UPDATE: Here is how my situation has turned out:

After my initial 4 phone calls (2-3 hours total talk/hold time) not resulting in any sort of discount whatsoever, I sent a lengthy email hoping for some sort of deal. After 2 days of no response whatsoever I decided to place yet another call to customer service.

On the call I explained that I wanted at the very least the same deal that new customers are getting on the website for the total choice plus HD package (HR20 for $199, 1 year HD, 1 year showtime, 1 year of starz with free shipping and installation). The first csr sounded confused and said she wasn't aware of such a deal so I was transfered. The second csr was aware of the deal but not willing to give it to me. The best she could do was the $199 HR20 and 4 months of free HD. I persisted and said that I was entitled the same deal being offered to new customers. So I was transfered again. The third csr was very relaxed and cool and said 'oh yeah that's no problem let me set you up'. I couldn't believe my ears.

Here is what I ended up getting (I'm not 100% happy with the results but it's way better that the stone-cold $299 + shipping that I was told by multiple csrs on my first 4 phone calls):

- HR20 + 5LBN: $199
- Free shipping + installation ($20)
- 1 year free HD ($10 x 12)
- 1 year free Showtime ($12 x 12)
- $10 credit for my Sports Pack for 6 months

Like I said I'm not overjoyed at the results but the experience was one of the worst I've gone through as far as customer service goes so I'm just glad it is over (at least for now).