Hi Chris,
Most of the STBs have satellite capability with the exception of the Samsung which is strictly over the air.
Interesting marketing ploy by Samsung forgoing the satl capability considering they are competing in the ota/satl receivers price point.
Subscription to satellite service is not mandatory although some dealers force you to get it as a condition for purchase. Just be patient and persistent in finding a source that does not require you to sign up for satl.
Dish 6000 presently requires that you have it connected to a dish pointed to the satellite for the OTA module to work. A fix is underway to remove this requirement.
Go to avsforums.com to read up on owner reviews on the STBs now available. Lots of owner feedback there to help you learn what is a good match for your needs.
Thanks,
Errol
Keohi HDTV
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