I've seen this questions asked many times but received so many different answers that I thought I'd ask a specific questions based off of it.

What HD channels have you actually seen and know it is broadcast through the satellite without the use of any special antennas?

For instance, I know that I have seen HBO broadcast in HD for DirecTV and I know that I have seen a "DEMO HD" channel. all fo the other channels that I've heard is HD capable, I have not personally seen. I hear that there are some PPV channels but dont know for sure. I also hear that the local channels will work only with a special Antenna but haven't see that either.

Dave

You are correct. There is very little HD programing available on Directv currently - just HBO east HD and the Demo-loop which doubles as the HD PPV in the evenings.

I've heard dish offers one more, maybe discovery or some such channel.

The only other HD you can get is if you local stations are broadcasting HD over the air, then you can use a UHF antenna. The antenna is really nothing special and you can get one from your local home supply store or radio shack for $35-100. Don't waste your money on the fancy looking expensive ones cause they don't work any better, in fact I've heard many don't work worth a crap.

Hi.
I am planning to buy a Plasma TV. I have a RCA Receiver (Directv Plus and has Dolby Digital). I see the two HD channels, but nothing is on them. When I have the plasma... would I be able to watch those channels? or I will have to buy a new receiver...?

Dave,

If you chose Dish Network, you will need a dish pointed at the sat that provides the HD channels. It's not a special antenna/dish but is in addition to the dishes that provide the normal service. A special switch box is also needed to add the additional dish.

Doug

Hi Doug,

Thanks for the info. Forunately I already know about this portion of it :) As a matter of fact, I placed an order for my 24" KTI with dual LNB's along with my new Toshiba DST-3000 HDTV reicever which will plug into my New Toshiba 40 Widescreen HD Ready TV :D
I have done lots of homework on this and I also got a chance to see HD HBO. It is nothing short of amazing! I am looking forward to seeing it all hooked up :)

Dave

Dave,
I don't think the Toshiba rcvr does Dish Network, just DirectTV? I think Dish has slightly better HD offerings currently, especially if you're in a location that qualifies for the CBSHD.
Doug

Doug,

You are correct. This setup is for DirecTV. And I agree that Dish offers 1 maybe 2 additional HD channels, but that is OK with me. From what I understand, Dish HD setup is much harder to do from California(which is where I am) based on satellite location.

Dave

You will not see the HD channels without, 1: HD set top box, RCA sells the DTC100, is that what you have? and 2: You will not get the HD channels without an HD ready TV. If your Plasma has a built in HD receiver, than you will be able to get the HD channels from DSS without any other equipment. I do however suggest you get an over the air antenna installed, I currently have 7 HD stations for free plus the 2 from directv. PBS over the air is by far the best HD channel available.