Despite the bundling of cable services with phone and broadband, satellite tv continues to have an edge. Better pricing and more DVR features have been fueling growth the past couple years. Here is more evidence of this trend......
"Satellite continues to mount its assault on cable by both whittling away cable's total subscriber base and attracting more net new digital subscribers,' says Greg Ireland, senior analyst in IDC's Consumer Markets program. 'Cable is responding with new digital video recorder services, enlarged video on demand libraries, and high-definition programming, yet satellite holds the momentum heading into 2005."
Research and Markets: U.S. Digital Cable and Satellite TV Subscriber 2004-2008
Friday
Satellite Dish - Line Of Sight Issues
When I sold satellite dish systems for a living the first question I always asked a prospective customer was if they had clear skies to the south ( for DirecTV ) or southwest ( for Dish Network ). Actually, southwest for Dish Network applies if you are east of the Rocky Mountains and changes to southeast as you move west of the Rockies.
There are usually two culprits when it comes to line of site issues, trees and apartment or condominium units with balconies facing north. If you live in an apartment building that has a balconey facing North, it is highly unlikely you can obtain a satellite signal. The only way to do it is to mount the satellite dish on a pole and try to shoot over the roofline ( ocassionally works if you are on the top floor ). Just make sure you mount the pole very securely so the satellite dish doesn't turn in a strong wind.
Trees are another matter. If you live in an older neighborhood with large, heavy trees overhead it can be very difficult to obtain a satellite signal. DirecTV comes down at a steeper angle than Dish Network (their satellites have a higher orbit) so it is the best choice if you have heavy trees to the southwest ( southeast if you are west of the Rockies).
Sometimes you can go to the very peak of your house to clear the trees, but this is considered a non-standard installation by most installers and you may be charged extra. Some installers will not do a non-standard install so it's best to ask prior to completing the purchase order. Most retailers will try to accomodate you if you make it an issue at the time of the sales negotiation.
There are usually two culprits when it comes to line of site issues, trees and apartment or condominium units with balconies facing north. If you live in an apartment building that has a balconey facing North, it is highly unlikely you can obtain a satellite signal. The only way to do it is to mount the satellite dish on a pole and try to shoot over the roofline ( ocassionally works if you are on the top floor ). Just make sure you mount the pole very securely so the satellite dish doesn't turn in a strong wind.
Trees are another matter. If you live in an older neighborhood with large, heavy trees overhead it can be very difficult to obtain a satellite signal. DirecTV comes down at a steeper angle than Dish Network (their satellites have a higher orbit) so it is the best choice if you have heavy trees to the southwest ( southeast if you are west of the Rockies).
Sometimes you can go to the very peak of your house to clear the trees, but this is considered a non-standard installation by most installers and you may be charged extra. Some installers will not do a non-standard install so it's best to ask prior to completing the purchase order. Most retailers will try to accomodate you if you make it an issue at the time of the sales negotiation.
EchoStar to buy Voom TV satellite
Just as we predicted in our December 20th article, it appears that Dish Network will be purchasing the satellite assets of the Cablevision venture known as Voom. The price tag is $200 million and for that Dish Network ( Parent Company Echostar ) will gain access to a cutting edge satellite providing much needed bandwidth for either HDTV and Broadband Internet initiatives.
Since the News Corp purchased DirecTV, Charlie Eagan has to be feeling the pressure to expand satellite capacity as rapidly as possible. With Rupert Murdoch's track record, you know it's just a matter of time before DirecTV rolls out a whole array of new services.
Here is the Rocky Mountain News Article:
"EchoStar Communications Corp. said Thursday it will buy a satellite and related assets from Cablevision Systems Corp.'s struggling Voom TV service for $200 million. The move could mean the end of Voom, a heavily hyped high-definition satellite-TV venture that has struggled since its launch more than 14 months ago. "
Rocky Mountain News: Business:
Since the News Corp purchased DirecTV, Charlie Eagan has to be feeling the pressure to expand satellite capacity as rapidly as possible. With Rupert Murdoch's track record, you know it's just a matter of time before DirecTV rolls out a whole array of new services.
Here is the Rocky Mountain News Article:
"EchoStar Communications Corp. said Thursday it will buy a satellite and related assets from Cablevision Systems Corp.'s struggling Voom TV service for $200 million. The move could mean the end of Voom, a heavily hyped high-definition satellite-TV venture that has struggled since its launch more than 14 months ago. "
Rocky Mountain News: Business:
Wednesday
Cable Commission disputes Satellite TV Numbers
The constant rise in cable tv rates is beginning to create tensions between local government officials and cable executives. Considering that most cable tv outlets operate without direct competition ( other than satellite tv ) local officials are beginning to closely scrutinize rate increase requests. I found this to be an interesting article as the mayor is questioning Adelphia's assertion that there are enough satellite dish systems in place within their community to qualify as a significant competitor.
Cynthiana Democrat: Harrison County's Online News Source
Cynthiana Democrat: Harrison County's Online News Source
Monday
Rate hikes ahead for satellite TV fans
Last week Dish Network announced their rate increases to take effect on February 1st. DirecTV is apparently planning to announce rate increases in the near future also. Currently the average subscriber bill for dish network is $56.11 and the average for DirecTV is $66.46.
Quote from the artlcle below found on CNet.
"DirecTV is also planning to announce a rate hike this quarter, but details are not yet available, said Robert Mercer, a company spokesman. Currently, DirecTV charges an average monthly rate of $66.46 per subscriber. "
Rate hikes ahead for satellite TV fans | CNET News.com:
Quote from the artlcle below found on CNet.
"DirecTV is also planning to announce a rate hike this quarter, but details are not yet available, said Robert Mercer, a company spokesman. Currently, DirecTV charges an average monthly rate of $66.46 per subscriber. "
Rate hikes ahead for satellite TV fans | CNET News.com:
Friday
Satellite Dish Tips Joins AnswerBlog Network
SatelliteDishTips.com (http://satellitedishtips.com) has become an official member of the AnswerBlogs Network (http://answerblogs.com).
The purpose of the blog is to offer up to the minute news on the satellite tv industry as well as satellite dish technology.The satellite tv industry is undergoing dramatic change which is why there is a great need for an information where consumers can gather information, without any sales pressure. Niche-based Blogs are quickly becoming the best way for consumers to do online research when planning major purchases or making travel plans.
"By becoming a member of the AnswerBlogs network, our blog will be able to reach more consumers than we could as a stand-alone blog" says Michael Peterson, editor of the blog.
For more information on the latest satellite technology please visit: http://satellitedishtips.blogspot.com
If you are interested in starting your own niche based blog visit: http://answerblogs.com
The purpose of the blog is to offer up to the minute news on the satellite tv industry as well as satellite dish technology.The satellite tv industry is undergoing dramatic change which is why there is a great need for an information where consumers can gather information, without any sales pressure. Niche-based Blogs are quickly becoming the best way for consumers to do online research when planning major purchases or making travel plans.
"By becoming a member of the AnswerBlogs network, our blog will be able to reach more consumers than we could as a stand-alone blog" says Michael Peterson, editor of the blog.
For more information on the latest satellite technology please visit: http://satellitedishtips.blogspot.com
If you are interested in starting your own niche based blog visit: http://answerblogs.com
Thursday
Satellite TV Receiver Records In High Definition
Press Release Source: EchoStar Communications Corporation
DISH Network Introduces Pay-TV Industry First with Multi-Room Satellite TV Receiver That Records in High-Definition
Thursday January 6, 2:19 pm ET
LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 6, 2005--EchoStar Communications Corporation (Nasdaq:DISH - News) and its DISH Network(TM) satellite TV service announced today the release of its newest high-definition (HD) satellite TV receiver, the DISH Player-DVR 942. No other pay-TV company offers the innovative combination of HD and digital video recording (DVR) features with multi-room capability like the DISH Player-DVR 942.
Continuing as a leader in HD and DVR initiatives, DISH Network's DISH Player-DVR 942 is the first-of-its-kind dual tuner, HD DVR with the ability to view independent programs -- one in high definition and one in standard definition programming on two televisions at once. It features a massive 250 GB hard drive with a recording capacity of up to 25 hours of high-definition and up to 180 hours of standard-definition content.
"DISH Network started the adoption of cutting-edge consumer electronics products with the introduction of the digital video recorder in 1999," said Mark Jackson, president of EchoStar Technologies Corp. "Now we are introducing the next generation of DVRs, including the first and only satellite TV receiver that will let you record HD programming and play it back in HD on the main TV and in standard definition on every other connected TV in the house."
The cutting-edge DISH Player-DVR 942 features rewind, fast-forward, and pause as well as a picture-in-picture feature on any TV and the ability to record Dolby Digital® when available. The DISH Player-DVR 942 will be available for purchase in the first quarter of 2005 for an incredibly low MSRP of $749, which includes a dish antenna and free standard professional installation for new customers.
The DISH Player-DVR 942 also features:
Digital/analog off-air tuner
Up to 9-day, Picture-In-Guide, Widescreen Electronic Program Guide (EPG)
High-Definition Resolutions: 480p, 720p, 1080i (480i is up-converted)
All DISH Player-DVR functionality, including name-based recording and DVR menu
Records two programs simultaneously in high definition, but programs can be viewed in standard definition on other TVs in the home
The DISH Player-DVR 942 offers convenience and features that customers have grown to depend on, including parental controls, electronic program guide, picture in guide and name based recording.
DISH Network offers ESPN HD, Discovery HD Theater, TNT HD, HDNet and HDNet Movies for $9.99 per month. In addition, DISH Network also offers CBS-HD, HBO-HD, Showtime HD and pay-per-view movies in HD. Under a special promotion, DISH Network is offering new customers six months free of the HD Pak and offering existing customers half off the monthly price for the HD Pak for 12 months.
Please call 1-800-333-DISH (3474) or visit www.DISHNetwork.com for more information.
About EchoStar
EchoStar Communications Corporation (Nasdaq:DISH - News) serves more than 10.4 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network(TM), the fastest growing U.S. provider of advanced digital television services in the last four years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service. DISH Network ranks No. 1 in Customer Satisfaction among Cable/Satellite TV Subscribers by J.D. Power and Associates. Visit EchoStar's DISH Network at www.dishnetwork.com or call 1-800-333-DISH (3474).
Artwork: An image of DISH Network's DISH Player-DVR 942 is available on our Website at www.dishnetwork.com/content/aboutus/presskit/index.shtml.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact:
EchoStar Communications Corporation
Marc Lumpkin, 303-723-2020
marc.lumpkin@echostar.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: EchoStar Communications Corporation
DISH Network Introduces Pay-TV Industry First with Multi-Room Satellite TV Receiver That Records in High-Definition
Thursday January 6, 2:19 pm ET
LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 6, 2005--EchoStar Communications Corporation (Nasdaq:DISH - News) and its DISH Network(TM) satellite TV service announced today the release of its newest high-definition (HD) satellite TV receiver, the DISH Player-DVR 942. No other pay-TV company offers the innovative combination of HD and digital video recording (DVR) features with multi-room capability like the DISH Player-DVR 942.
Continuing as a leader in HD and DVR initiatives, DISH Network's DISH Player-DVR 942 is the first-of-its-kind dual tuner, HD DVR with the ability to view independent programs -- one in high definition and one in standard definition programming on two televisions at once. It features a massive 250 GB hard drive with a recording capacity of up to 25 hours of high-definition and up to 180 hours of standard-definition content.
"DISH Network started the adoption of cutting-edge consumer electronics products with the introduction of the digital video recorder in 1999," said Mark Jackson, president of EchoStar Technologies Corp. "Now we are introducing the next generation of DVRs, including the first and only satellite TV receiver that will let you record HD programming and play it back in HD on the main TV and in standard definition on every other connected TV in the house."
The cutting-edge DISH Player-DVR 942 features rewind, fast-forward, and pause as well as a picture-in-picture feature on any TV and the ability to record Dolby Digital® when available. The DISH Player-DVR 942 will be available for purchase in the first quarter of 2005 for an incredibly low MSRP of $749, which includes a dish antenna and free standard professional installation for new customers.
The DISH Player-DVR 942 also features:
Digital/analog off-air tuner
Up to 9-day, Picture-In-Guide, Widescreen Electronic Program Guide (EPG)
High-Definition Resolutions: 480p, 720p, 1080i (480i is up-converted)
All DISH Player-DVR functionality, including name-based recording and DVR menu
Records two programs simultaneously in high definition, but programs can be viewed in standard definition on other TVs in the home
The DISH Player-DVR 942 offers convenience and features that customers have grown to depend on, including parental controls, electronic program guide, picture in guide and name based recording.
DISH Network offers ESPN HD, Discovery HD Theater, TNT HD, HDNet and HDNet Movies for $9.99 per month. In addition, DISH Network also offers CBS-HD, HBO-HD, Showtime HD and pay-per-view movies in HD. Under a special promotion, DISH Network is offering new customers six months free of the HD Pak and offering existing customers half off the monthly price for the HD Pak for 12 months.
Please call 1-800-333-DISH (3474) or visit www.DISHNetwork.com for more information.
About EchoStar
EchoStar Communications Corporation (Nasdaq:DISH - News) serves more than 10.4 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network(TM), the fastest growing U.S. provider of advanced digital television services in the last four years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service. DISH Network ranks No. 1 in Customer Satisfaction among Cable/Satellite TV Subscribers by J.D. Power and Associates. Visit EchoStar's DISH Network at www.dishnetwork.com or call 1-800-333-DISH (3474).
Artwork: An image of DISH Network's DISH Player-DVR 942 is available on our Website at www.dishnetwork.com/content/aboutus/presskit/index.shtml.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact:
EchoStar Communications Corporation
Marc Lumpkin, 303-723-2020
marc.lumpkin@echostar.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: EchoStar Communications Corporation
Wednesday
More On RaySat In-Motion Satellite Technology
Satellite TV On Wheels!
Apparently, if you are a satellite tv subscriber you can add your van, car, suv or rv to your package for $5 per month... just like adding another room. The only catch is the $2200 in-motion antenna you need to be able to watch your satellite programming on the go. But with all technology, this is definitely one to watch as prices will continue to come down.
For more information you can visit their website at: http://raysat.com
Apparently, if you are a satellite tv subscriber you can add your van, car, suv or rv to your package for $5 per month... just like adding another room. The only catch is the $2200 in-motion antenna you need to be able to watch your satellite programming on the go. But with all technology, this is definitely one to watch as prices will continue to come down.
For more information you can visit their website at: http://raysat.com
Audiovox Introduces SkyBox Mobile Video Satellite RV Antenna System
Press Release Source: Audiovox Corporation
Wednesday January 5, 8:04 am ET
Developed by RaySat, System Receives 500 Digital Channels While Moving
HAUPPAUGE, N.Y. and LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Audiovox Corporation (Nasdaq: VOXX - News) today launched SkyBox, the company's first product designed to add live digital satellite TV to Mobile Video systems.
SkyBox can receive Dish Network and all other direct-to-home DBS providers in the U.S. and ExpressVU in Canada. Its ultra-low profile antenna design translates to a sleek-looking 5.7-inches high and it mounts on top of any van, SUV or truck. The product, developed by RaySat of Vienna, Virginia, will be marketed exclusively in the US and Canadian automotive aftermarkets by Audiovox.
Tom Malone, Senior VP Sales stated, "As a recognized leader in mobile entertainment, Audiovox is constantly introducing new products that enhance the mobile video experience. The ability to provide satellite TV to a moving vehicle has eluded manufacturers for a long time. SkyBox makes that next step a reality. We are pleased to have joined forces with RaySat marketing this unique product."
"Audiovox, the nation's best-selling brand in mobile video, is the ideal partner for RaySat in bringing this product to market and will generate an immediate impact at retail," said Samer Salameh, RaySat President and CEO. "As the only in-motion antenna capable of receiving 500 channels and working with all DBS providers in the U. S. and ExpressVU (in Canada), SkyBox, available exclusively through Audiovox, will have to be the first choice for any consumer considering in-motion TV."
SkyBox has a secure mounting structure that has been designed for most RVs, SUVs and minivans and the system has been tested for virtually all road conditions like all the Audiovox mobile video products.
The system features sophisticated satellite searching, recognition and tracking capability that is fully automated and GPS-based. Malone observes, "We believe SkyBox will be a big draw for the high-end SUV owner. Dealers will see it increase their sales and profits dramatically."
About Audiovox
Audiovox Corporation, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Audiovox Electronics Corporation (AEC) is a recognized leader in the marketing of automotive entertainment, vehicle security and consumer electronics products. The company is number one in mobile video and places in the top ten of almost every category that it sells. Among the products marketed by AEC are mobile video systems, portable DVD players, flat-panel TV's, auto sound systems including satellite radio, vehicle security, and consumer electronics products such as extended range two-way radios, multi media products like MP 3 players, and home and portable stereos. The company markets its products through an extensive distribution network that includes power retailers, 12-volt specialists, mass merchandisers and an OE sales group. The company markets products under the Audiovox, Jensen, Acoustic Research, Advent, Code Alarm and Prestige brands. For additional information, visit our web site at http://www.audiovox.com.
Safe-Harbor Language
Except for historical information contained herein, statements made in this release that would constitute forward-looking statements may involve certain risks and uncertainties. All forward-looking statements made in this release are based on currently available information and the Company assumes no responsibility to update any such forward-looking statement. The following factors, among others, may cause actual results to differ materially from the results suggested in the forward-looking statements. The factors include, but are not limited to, risks that may result from changes in the Company's business operations; our ability to keep pace with technological advances; significant competition in the mobile and consumer electronics businesses as well as the wireless business; our relationships with key suppliers and customers; quality and consumer acceptance of newly introduced products; market volatility; non-availability of product; excess inventory; price and product competition; new product introductions; the possibility that the review of our prior filings by the SEC may result in changes to our financial statements; and the possibility that stockholders or regulatory authorities may initiate proceedings against Audiovox and/or our officers and directors as a result of any restatements. Risk factors associated with our business, including some of the facts set forth herein, are detailed in the Company's Form 10-K/A for the fiscal year ended November 30, 2003 and Form 10-Q for the fiscal 2004 third quarter ended August 31, 2004.
2005 CES
Las Vegas Convention Center
Audiovox-Jensen-Code Systems Booth 11006
Media Contact for Product Inquiries:
Mel Clapman
Clapman Public Relations
(718) 474-2528 or mclapman@mindspring.com
Public and Investor Relations Contact:
Glenn Wiener
GW Communications
(212) 786-6011 or gwiener@GWCco.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Audiovox Corporation
Wednesday January 5, 8:04 am ET
Developed by RaySat, System Receives 500 Digital Channels While Moving
HAUPPAUGE, N.Y. and LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Audiovox Corporation (Nasdaq: VOXX - News) today launched SkyBox, the company's first product designed to add live digital satellite TV to Mobile Video systems.
SkyBox can receive Dish Network and all other direct-to-home DBS providers in the U.S. and ExpressVU in Canada. Its ultra-low profile antenna design translates to a sleek-looking 5.7-inches high and it mounts on top of any van, SUV or truck. The product, developed by RaySat of Vienna, Virginia, will be marketed exclusively in the US and Canadian automotive aftermarkets by Audiovox.
Tom Malone, Senior VP Sales stated, "As a recognized leader in mobile entertainment, Audiovox is constantly introducing new products that enhance the mobile video experience. The ability to provide satellite TV to a moving vehicle has eluded manufacturers for a long time. SkyBox makes that next step a reality. We are pleased to have joined forces with RaySat marketing this unique product."
"Audiovox, the nation's best-selling brand in mobile video, is the ideal partner for RaySat in bringing this product to market and will generate an immediate impact at retail," said Samer Salameh, RaySat President and CEO. "As the only in-motion antenna capable of receiving 500 channels and working with all DBS providers in the U. S. and ExpressVU (in Canada), SkyBox, available exclusively through Audiovox, will have to be the first choice for any consumer considering in-motion TV."
SkyBox has a secure mounting structure that has been designed for most RVs, SUVs and minivans and the system has been tested for virtually all road conditions like all the Audiovox mobile video products.
The system features sophisticated satellite searching, recognition and tracking capability that is fully automated and GPS-based. Malone observes, "We believe SkyBox will be a big draw for the high-end SUV owner. Dealers will see it increase their sales and profits dramatically."
About Audiovox
Audiovox Corporation, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Audiovox Electronics Corporation (AEC) is a recognized leader in the marketing of automotive entertainment, vehicle security and consumer electronics products. The company is number one in mobile video and places in the top ten of almost every category that it sells. Among the products marketed by AEC are mobile video systems, portable DVD players, flat-panel TV's, auto sound systems including satellite radio, vehicle security, and consumer electronics products such as extended range two-way radios, multi media products like MP 3 players, and home and portable stereos. The company markets its products through an extensive distribution network that includes power retailers, 12-volt specialists, mass merchandisers and an OE sales group. The company markets products under the Audiovox, Jensen, Acoustic Research, Advent, Code Alarm and Prestige brands. For additional information, visit our web site at http://www.audiovox.com.
Safe-Harbor Language
Except for historical information contained herein, statements made in this release that would constitute forward-looking statements may involve certain risks and uncertainties. All forward-looking statements made in this release are based on currently available information and the Company assumes no responsibility to update any such forward-looking statement. The following factors, among others, may cause actual results to differ materially from the results suggested in the forward-looking statements. The factors include, but are not limited to, risks that may result from changes in the Company's business operations; our ability to keep pace with technological advances; significant competition in the mobile and consumer electronics businesses as well as the wireless business; our relationships with key suppliers and customers; quality and consumer acceptance of newly introduced products; market volatility; non-availability of product; excess inventory; price and product competition; new product introductions; the possibility that the review of our prior filings by the SEC may result in changes to our financial statements; and the possibility that stockholders or regulatory authorities may initiate proceedings against Audiovox and/or our officers and directors as a result of any restatements. Risk factors associated with our business, including some of the facts set forth herein, are detailed in the Company's Form 10-K/A for the fiscal year ended November 30, 2003 and Form 10-Q for the fiscal 2004 third quarter ended August 31, 2004.
2005 CES
Las Vegas Convention Center
Audiovox-Jensen-Code Systems Booth 11006
Media Contact for Product Inquiries:
Mel Clapman
Clapman Public Relations
(718) 474-2528 or mclapman@mindspring.com
Public and Investor Relations Contact:
Glenn Wiener
GW Communications
(212) 786-6011 or gwiener@GWCco.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Audiovox Corporation
Dish Network Rates Going Up Feb 1st
Dish Network has announced that rates on most packages will be going up on February 1st. New Subscribers who are still in their commitment period are protected from the price increase. So if you are looking at Digital TV, now is the time to lock in your pricing for the next 12 months!
Most packages will be going up $2 - $4 per month. For example, new Digital Home Plan pricing will be:
America's Top 60 - $31.99 up from $29.99
America's Top 120 - $42.99 up from $39.99
America's Top 180 - $52.99 up from $49.99
America's Everything $86.99 up from $82.99
Movie Packages, Latino Packages and Pay Per View movie prices remain unchanged. If you are currently a Dish Network Subscriber, you will be receiving an increase notice this month along with a certificate for a free Pay-Per-View movie.
Most packages will be going up $2 - $4 per month. For example, new Digital Home Plan pricing will be:
America's Top 60 - $31.99 up from $29.99
America's Top 120 - $42.99 up from $39.99
America's Top 180 - $52.99 up from $49.99
America's Everything $86.99 up from $82.99
Movie Packages, Latino Packages and Pay Per View movie prices remain unchanged. If you are currently a Dish Network Subscriber, you will be receiving an increase notice this month along with a certificate for a free Pay-Per-View movie.
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