I get some but not all things on all. I can often watch cricket and the like. Last year, I was able to watch Sunday Night Baseball. But Bowl Games were completely blocked out.
Cutting The Cord on Cable/Satellite TV Service?
- Thread starter LoweTek
- Start date
Was going to get rid of cable/phone completely and do the Roku, PS3 route, with an antennae for local channels. No OTA reception where I live, so we are thinking of signing up for basic Dish network for about $30/month (for 12 months, then $50/month) and Comcast internet will reduce to $32/month, and Hulu+ in place of DVR. Dropping our phone service.
Currently we pay around $165.00 for our phone/internet/TV bundle through Comcast.
Over the next 2 years (contract for Dish network) we should save somewhere around $2k.
Currently we pay around $165.00 for our phone/internet/TV bundle through Comcast.
Over the next 2 years (contract for Dish network) we should save somewhere around $2k.
Personally, I am able to use ESPN3 content, which usually isn't great, but you need the cable feed channels themselves to actually watch ESPN, ESPN2, etc.
On an unrelated note, I got the beta invite to a month trial of the Redbox Streaming service, and the selection is abysmal. There isn't one streaming option I'd want to watch. It does include 4 kiosk rentals per month, so I guess I'll try to find a local kiosk and rent something. But the online streaming stuff is beyond terrible.
It's when they did their "Quantum" thing, I believe. Their higher than basic tiers all got bumped up by $10 but had their downstream speed doubled (my 25/25 for $70 a month became 50/25 for $80), but I think that low 15/5 tier just got the price bump with no performance increases, presumably because "fuck you, we're Verizon!"
Was looking forward to what Redbox Steaming might offer, content-wise and competition-wise, but all the reviews so far are scathing.
[quote name='Omar's Wacky Neighbor' timestamp='1358005262' post='4498343']
Was looking forward to what Redbox Steaming might offer, content-wise and competition-wise, but all the reviews so far are scathing.
[/quote]
I'm hoping it will get better over time, and they'll start including some newer options. Here's a screenshot of their "most popular streaming" options. Some good movies, but I was expecting some solid movies that have been in theaters the past couple years, and they've failed in that regard.
[
Was looking forward to what Redbox Steaming might offer, content-wise and competition-wise, but all the reviews so far are scathing.
[/quote]
I'm hoping it will get better over time, and they'll start including some newer options. Here's a screenshot of their "most popular streaming" options. Some good movies, but I was expecting some solid movies that have been in theaters the past couple years, and they've failed in that regard.
[
Seriously, Crackle might be able to beat that library.
I'm hoping it will get better over time, and they'll start including some newer options. Here's a screenshot of their "most popular streaming" options. Some good movies, but I was expecting some solid movies that have been in theaters the past couple years, and they've failed in that regard.
[
Anyone here have any experience using the NHL streaming service using a VPN? I'm considering a purchase and was hoping it would work in a similar fashion to MLB.TV. I've watched the Sox for a couple of years now, using a VPN to make it look as though I'm in Britain.
Their pricing structure is ridiculous.
2 year contract prices:
internet only (50/25) = $80.00 per month
TV (210 channels) + internet (50/25) = $85.82 per month (after subtracting the value of the $100 gift card averaged over 24 months)
TV (210 channels) + internet (50/25) + phone = $87.49 per month ($300 gift card averaged over 24 months)
If you instead request the "la conexion" spanish package for TV, it's $5 cheaper than the standard "Prime HD". So you would then pay:
TV (la conexion) + internet (50/25) = $80.82 per month
TV (la conexion) + internet (50/25) + phone = $82.49 per month
Basic cable (15 channels) now costs the same as Prime HD (210 channels)
Comcast wanted to charge us $80 for internet only until I complained to their Twitter account and got them to lower it to $50 for 1 year.
Check the CPU on the router you're using at the home site. Encrypting streaming video isn't something most SOHO routers are built to handle.
This plan sounds great but I strongly urge you to go with Directv over Dish. It's the sameprice and you get so much more for your money and much better customer service.TimNJsoxfan said:
We already went with Dish. Directv was $20 more a month and so far after a couple weeks, we are very satisfied with what we have. We had Directv for ten years when we switched to Comcast last year to bundle tv/internet/phone. We were paying $210/month and went to $160/month. Hated leaving Directv, but we had to do it.Tim Naehrings Girl said:
I think this is covered somewhere, but I can't find it. Which media players do y'all recommend for mlb.tv? My Sony media player doesn't have it, but we're going to get another one for upstairs and I may try mlb.tv again if I can watch games on tv. I just did a search for "media player" on Sosh and the only things that came up were my entries. Perhaps most people use another term. But whatever it is, what's the best device for streaming mlb.tv to the telly?
InsideTheParker said:
I use Roku and it works fantastically. There is another thread talking about another product that streams but I have had my Roku for over a year and it is a great product. Amazon, Netflix, HboGo, MLB.TV and a host of other options. It was beyond simple to set up and the picture is awesome. The MLB.tv App is really legit.
I just bought a Roku and I really like it. The interface is much smoother and the set-up much easier than my Sony Media Player's. BUT I have a problem. The only way I can get Directv in the upstairs bedroom (Our contract goes for one more year) is wirelessly via a Radio Shack transmitter/receiver set. The Roku interferes with it horribly. The problem could be solved so easily if Roku only had on/off as an option. Instead, to switch from the Roku to Directv, we have to haul ass in the cold night to unplug the Roku. Not what you want in February, when it's so cozy in bed. We are going to try to solve it using a power strip that has a remote, but it's disappointing. I could return the Roku, but I like it so much, not least because it's so small and elegant in shape.
Yeah, I've had the same problem and haven't found a solution. Specifically, the amplified antenna I have in my bedroom. I'm usually watching Roku at night, and live TV in the AM, so I usually just unplug my Roku in the morning, but I'd rather not be going through any of that.
The WD isn't that much bigger--it's gotta be smaller and more elegant than the Roku plus a remote-controlled power strip solution:InsideTheParker said:
And it's got on/off.
A $20 workaround right here - remote-control switch for the plug. I think it's power rating (16A) is more than enough for Roku.
Thanks. I have a bit of investment now in the Roku, having spent a while setting it up and getting it to recognize Netflix and Pandora. It also cost about $15. less than the cheapest WD. And it is way cuter!SumnerH said:The WD isn't that much bigger--it's gotta be smaller and more elegant than the Roku plus a remote-controlled power strip solution:
And it's got on/off.
But I will try one if nothing works out w/ the Roku.
That one is definitely on the list, even though it requires a fancy battery for the remote. My husband is arguing for this one: (http://www.amazon.com/Belkin-Conserve-Switch-Energy-Saving-Protector/dp/B003P2UMNK) for the surge protection, but I think that's overkill for a TV and a Roku. Besides, I'm a cheapskate.zenter said:
That was my spouse's first thought, and they do still exist, "Now with Remote!!!!!!!!!!," but according to various folks on the internet, they have exploded and caught fire.jayhoz said:
OK. Thanks for the reply. Unfortunately, I need to be able to watch satellite TV with the Roku off, since the Roku causes interference. I expect the problem is solvable for ready money.jayhoz said:
First off, shame on you and you're all terrible people and you should preserve and honor your wonderful cable provider.
[I work for a cable network and this is kind of scary shit for us.]
That said, I have to admit I'm kind of considering cutting a cord myself. Can anybody tells me if this makes sense?
I have a cable package through TWC at my home in NYC, and a second cable package to another home through Cablevision in Connecticut. Could I hook a Slingbox up to the NYC set, then pick up the TWC signal on my iPad 3 in Connecticut and pass it through my AppleTV to the big TV screen in Connecticut? Would let me dump the Connecticut cable package?
Of course it would also cost me the Connecticut broadcast stations, meaning I'd no longer get Pats games in Connecticut, but maybe rabbit ears would help pull those in...
[I work for a cable network and this is kind of scary shit for us.]
That said, I have to admit I'm kind of considering cutting a cord myself. Can anybody tells me if this makes sense?
I have a cable package through TWC at my home in NYC, and a second cable package to another home through Cablevision in Connecticut. Could I hook a Slingbox up to the NYC set, then pick up the TWC signal on my iPad 3 in Connecticut and pass it through my AppleTV to the big TV screen in Connecticut? Would let me dump the Connecticut cable package?
Of course it would also cost me the Connecticut broadcast stations, meaning I'd no longer get Pats games in Connecticut, but maybe rabbit ears would help pull those in...
My wife has been after me to cut our cable to save money and while I was watching the last episodes of Fringe, I figured out my comcast DVR at the last 5 episodes anyway. Cable is cut as soon as I can return the DVR and remote.
I barely watch any TV at this point anyway (I've just been listening to the Sox via the MLB radio ap), but she thinks we should have some TV service rather than just watching on our laptops, so we're looking at Apple TV or Roku. Anyone have any updates from the first pages in the thread with comps on the new hardware? All of our computers are Macs...
We live in NYC, so we can get the Sox, except when they play the Yankees, which is sort of a pain. I assume the "hide my IP" program is not working on macs?
I barely watch any TV at this point anyway (I've just been listening to the Sox via the MLB radio ap), but she thinks we should have some TV service rather than just watching on our laptops, so we're looking at Apple TV or Roku. Anyone have any updates from the first pages in the thread with comps on the new hardware? All of our computers are Macs...
We live in NYC, so we can get the Sox, except when they play the Yankees, which is sort of a pain. I assume the "hide my IP" program is not working on macs?
I'm really close myself. Appletv now has Hulu Plus, ABC and NBC have ipad apps. HBO and Cinemax ( i have accounts thanks to my cable box at work) just did updates that allow streaming to it from your Mac or iPad. Currently streaming Pandora thru the house using my ipad and this year will be my first using MLB.tv instead of paying Directv. If I could get MLB Network I'd be all set.OCD SS said:
I'm also picking up MLB.tv for the first time since 2007. I'm curious to see how much the product has improved. I'll be running it through my ps3 and occasionally my iPad. In any case, it seems most of the options for devices that stream content are pretty similar at this point. If you are a Mac household, maybe appleTV is the way to go.
Mugsys Jock said:
This is totally doable, except the Apple TV thing - it doesn't let you AirPlay certain apps (yay DRM), and I think the Sling app isn't supported. However, if you hook up one of these or a laptop with browser, you're good to go.
In my experience, the Watch ESPN and HBO Go apps work within all of NYC even if you're not on the home network (unlike the TWC app, which requires cable box cross-talk). Now, you may know this (I don't), but I wonder if this watching option extends to watching ESPN or HBO in CT using your TWC-NYC login. If so, then the connected box (AppleTV, Roku, etc) can have those set up to watch some content in CT (if not all).
Hope that helps.
also note that HBO GO/Cinemax are not supported on Apple TV/Roku if your subscription is via Comcast.
Well I ordered this (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003ZTWYXY/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1) and it solves the problem. Reading the user reviews, I was moved by the positive effects this product had on the life of a paraplegic. It's a shame to have to spend more to turn the Roku off, but since the Roku was on sale and so cheap, it all evens out.mt8thsw9th said:
I bought one of those indoor antennas to try and get the Oscars on Sunday (I am having an Oscar party) and I can't get any reception.
Anyone know how I can watch the Oscars without TV service? I have a Sony Google TV and can also hook my iPad up to the TV as well. Don't want to cancel the party.
Anyone know how I can watch the Oscars without TV service? I have a Sony Google TV and can also hook my iPad up to the TV as well. Don't want to cancel the party.
I'd get an Apple TV with your setup of other devices.OCD SS said:
You can get around the MLB.tv blackouts easily on a Mac just by using a proxy server. Just turn on HTTPS proxy with any crappy free proxy you find, start up the stream, and then once your stream starts up you can turn off the proxy. I've been doing that the last few years on my MacBook with no issues. Presumably it will work the same way this year.
I'm actually trying to solve the problem, not necessarily use a workaround. It's just odd that it creates the interference, yet I can't find anyone posting about any fixes (if there are any). I may end up getting a 20 foot coax and plugging the antenna in across the room. The added benefit is it'll be where I can put the amplified antenna in the window.InsideTheParker said:
I got a new TV, and got a great deal on a Samsung Smart TV, though I wasn't really especially looking for a Smart TV. I was really just looking for a solid LED TV and was going to purchase an Apple TV. But since I ended up getting the smart TV, is it still worth getting the Apple TV? I can't say I love the interface on the Smart TV, but it seems to have the important Apps on it (Hulu+, Netflix, MLB.tv, HBO Go), so it seems like the Apple TV might be a waste of $100 now. Is there any reason to get the Apple TV now or should I just get used to using the Smart TV Apps?
Honestly I'd just try to use the SmartTV for now. AppleTV definitely offers some different stuff, but if you can get by with what's on there I'm pretty sure you won't miss having an Apple TV. I'm in a fairly similar situation and have one and it's kind of a lazy thing but I don't feel like changing inputs, etc to watch something else, given 90% of what we'd click over for exists on the TV anyhow.
Just got a notice yesterday that FIOS is dumping ESPN Classic in May. This is annoying for a number of reasons but especially because they air Friday Night Lights episodes back to back twice a week. Yes, I know I can Netflix it anytime, but there's still something great about idly flipping channels and coming upon FNL and settling in for a fantastic episode or two.
https://aereo.com/boston
Coming to Boston May 15th!
Watch Live TV online. Record shows for later. No cable required.
Pre-register Now
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Fill in the form below and youll receive a private invitation to join Aereo up to 2 weeks before its available to the general public on May 30th. Youll also get one month free when you subscribe
Coming to Boston May 15th!
Watch Live TV online. Record shows for later. No cable required.
Pre-register Now
Get an advanced invitation before Aereo launches in Boston.
Fill in the form below and youll receive a private invitation to join Aereo up to 2 weeks before its available to the general public on May 30th. Youll also get one month free when you subscribe
I'm confused.
I get, like, 50 channels over-the-air on my TV. What the hell does Aero offer over that?
Edit: Also, their website sucks dick. Who puts giant, white lettering over screen-sized pictures with light backgrounds? Readability sure didn't come to the forefront.
In other news, get off my lawn.
I get, like, 50 channels over-the-air on my TV. What the hell does Aero offer over that?
Edit: Also, their website sucks dick. Who puts giant, white lettering over screen-sized pictures with light backgrounds? Readability sure didn't come to the forefront.
In other news, get off my lawn.
Couple advantages.
1. I'm right in the city & even digital reception can be garbled. Aereo is completely clear for everything that broadcasts in the area.
2. Watch on any device. Main TV is hooked up to a MacMini, but we can use an iPad or phone in other rooms. Pretty cool.
3. DVR service for OTA channels, also available for playback on any device.
4. The established networks & service providers are scared shitless by the service - and I generally support anything that disrupts their dinosaur-ish ways and forces them to contemplate change.
For $8 a month, not bad.
ed. typos
1. I'm right in the city & even digital reception can be garbled. Aereo is completely clear for everything that broadcasts in the area.
2. Watch on any device. Main TV is hooked up to a MacMini, but we can use an iPad or phone in other rooms. Pretty cool.
3. DVR service for OTA channels, also available for playback on any device.
4. The established networks & service providers are scared shitless by the service - and I generally support anything that disrupts their dinosaur-ish ways and forces them to contemplate change.
For $8 a month, not bad.
ed. typos
So what do people do, get Aero, Netflix and Hulu+ and call it a day?
Where would I be able to watch NESN?
Where would I be able to watch NESN?