Cable and satellite article: Satellite TV Systems - is Dish Network or Directv Better?

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Satellite TV System

A satellite TV system consists of a satellite dish which captures the signal from a satellite, an LNB (low-noise block) converter which amplifies and converts the signal, and a receiver which decodes the signal and sends it to a TV set.

DISH Network Satellite TV System

DISH Network will give you a fee satellite TV system consisting of a dish and a four-room receiver system when you order one of their programming packages.

The dish is a 20-inch all-weather aluminum dish with an advanced LNB converter.

DISH Network offers two types of free receivers - the DISH 311single tuner receiver for satellite TV viewing on one TV, and the DISH 322 for viewing two different channels on two TVs.

In addition to the standard receivers you can also get a free DVR (digital video recorder) receiver or a free HD (high definition) receiver.

With the DVR receiver you can digitally record 100 hours of satellite TV programming, and even record two programs while watching another. You can also pause and rewind live programming so you can get a snack or answer the phone. The HD receiver allows you to watch TV in high-definition format giving you a lifelike picture and three-dimensional sound.

Your system also comes with universal remotes that allow you to operate your satellite TV system, your TV, your DVD player, and your VCR.

For an additional $199 you can get a combination DVR/HD receiver that gives you the best of both worlds and can record up to 200 hours of programming.

Installation of your entire system is free, and when the installer is done he or she will show you how to operate your system and answer your questions.

Note: DISH Network program packages start at $19.99 per month.

DIRECTV Satellite TV System

With DIRECTV you also get a free satellite dish and a free four-room receiver system when you subscribe to their service.

Their standard dish is an 18" X 20" oval all-weather dish with a dual LNB converter.

DIRECTV's free D11 receiver is for single TV viewing and comes with interactive capabilities and a customizable on-screen guide that let's you create a personal program guide.

You can upgrade to a DVR receiver or an HD receiver for free after a $99 mail-in rebate.

With the DVR receiver you can digitally record up to 100 hours of programming - even record two shows at the same time - and pause and rewind live TV. The HD receiver lets you watch HD broadcasts giving you the highest-quality picture and sound available.

Their free universal remotes let you operate your satellite TV system, VCR, DVD player, and TV.

For $499 you can purchase an HD/DVR receiver so you can watch satellite TV in high definition and record up to 200 hours of programming.

DIRECTV satellite TV installation is free and your installer will show you how to operate your system and answer any questions you may have.

Note: DIRECTV program packages start at $29.99 per month.

Visit http://www.TheSatelliteTVGuide.com for more information, ordering information, plus the latest special offers from DISH Network. Click on the following link to compare DIRECTV vs. DISH Network.