Dish Network Myths – Setting the Record Straight

In recent months DIRECTV has begun a campaign of falsehoods directed at Dish Network in an effort to slow Dish’s momentum in the marketplace. Customers haven’t been fooled by DIRECTV’s claims and here is why:

Dish Network Does Not Carry Local Channels

For some time now it has been stated Dish Network has lost local programming for affiliates like CBS ABC NBC…. this is not true. Dish Network carries local programming in 184 local markets, encompassing 97% of the country. By comparison DIRECTV services only 150 local markets or 94% of the country. In fact Dish Network delivers local channel in high-definition to 93% of the country. DIRECTV services just 84% of the country with HD locals.

Dish Network charges for Local Channels

Not true! Local channels are included in all Dish Network programming packages. The misconception comes from Dish Network offering customers a $5.00 discount if they choose not to get locals. Also there are some International programming options that require the customer to add a local channel package for $9.99. DIRECTV requires one of two a base packages be purchased for International customers, Basic $12.99 or Preferred Choice $34.99.

Dish Network loses channels

Not true! Dish Network has been adding channels to its lineup month over month more than any other service provider. Programming like The NFL RedZone Channel, which has launched to tremendous reviews. DIRECTV has recently lost Versus, hope you’re not a hockey or PBR fan. In fact Dish Network now carries more than 295-channels in its America’s Everything Pak. DIRECTV, just 265 in its Premier Package.

Dish Network has Inferior HD Quality

Not true! This all marketing done by DIRECTV to justify their higher prices. Dish Network is the first Satellite Provider to broadcast in 1080P true high definition. Dish Network is currently offering 140-HD channels to DIRECTV’s 130.

Dish Network is plagued by installation problems

Not true! With accessible call centers and a departments devoted to making sure your installation is a pleasurable experience there would be no reason for a customer to experience an installation problem. A Dish Network installer will even install a satellite dish on a pole at no cost to the customer. DIRECTV installers charge $150 for pole mounts. Dish Network installations take place within 2-4 days typically. DIRECTV 5-7 days on average.

Dish Network out sources its Customer Service Centers overseas.

Absolutely incorrect! Dish Network has customer service centers in Texas, West Virginia, Virginia, Ohio, Colorado, Pennsylvania, Arizona, New Jersey, New York and Oklahoma, to ensure a customer speaks to a representative that can understand what they are experiencing and unlike DIRECTV these are free calls.

Dish Network has poor signal strength

With new satellites launched in November 2008 Dish Network has Satellites devoted to both sides of the country, known as the Eastern Arc and Western Arc. The Arc’s provide Dish Network with greater elevation angles than DIRECTV giving Dish Network customers better satellite signal and better picture quality. The placement of this satellite has ensured Dish Networks signal remains second to none with a 99.9% reliable rating.

Dish Network has inferior sports programming

Dish Network provides college and pro basketball with ESPN Full Court, NBA League Pass and NBA TV. Hockey is covered through NHL Center Ice, NHL Network, and Versus (not carried by DIRECTV). Soccer, College Football and even International sports like Rugby and cricket are covered. The main differences between DIRECTV and Dish Network when it comes to sports are Baseball and Football. DIRECTV carries MLB Extra Innings at a cost of $180 per season, Dish does not. You can watch your local baseball teams on Dish Network, but if you are into paying for out-of-market baseball games than DIRECTV would be the place to go. When it comes to the NFL, Dish Network has launched the NFL Network RedZone Channel, which is getting tremendous reviews. DIRECTV’s signature programming is the NFL Sunday Ticket, which they have paid nearly $750-million for the exclusive rights to. Sunday Ticket programming will cost you $300 for the season and an extra $100 to get DIRECTV’s version of the Red Zone Channel. With only 3% of DIRECTV customers subscribing to NFL Sunday Ticket, perhaps that explains DIRECTV’s higher rates. Incidentally, you can watch NFL games on Fox, CBS, NBC, ESPN and NFL Network in crystal clear high-definition on Dish Network.

Dish Network has inferior equipment

Dish Network possesses an HD-DVR, the ViP722 that can be utilized on 2-TVs at once. Providing High-Definition and DVR on one TV and Standard Definition and DVR on the other. This receiver was voted CNet Editors Choice best in class. Dish Network does all it’s manufacturing in-house, which allows them to expand technology and keep costs low for their customers. Currently in development is a sling system, which will allow a dish customer to access their TV, and DVR through any Internet connection. This includes your cell phone!