hd tivo MAJOR price drop today

[DavidS]

When you have to commit to (say) 2 years service to get these deals, do you have to commit to the HD package for 2 yrs, or just continue your existing subscription?

I would use the HD tivo only for OTA HD and D* SD.

As I mentioned above, I was told I had to add teh HD package for at least one year (and have some kind of service for two years). Then they gave me $5 off for six months. YMMV

[mike1977]

Hey how does the picture look if you use the componet output? I don't have DVI/HDMI connection. Will this be bad in the future, or will componet connections always be around? Thanks.

I don't have DVI/HDMI either. My TV just has 2 component inputs. It's a Samsung (TXN2771HF I think) 4:3 HD monitor.

[Gregg 00SS]

I just moved to Florida and am planning on getting D* in the next few days. I've seen a few posts that new customers have been offered this deal and am hoping I too can get in on it. My only concern is do you think I should just join up with the 4 regular recievers, or get the free tivo upgrade reciever and 3 normal ones, and then try and get the HD/Tivo upgrade. Just wondering if getting the free upgrade from the get go will hurt my chances of getting the HD/Tivo upgrade.

[Lije Baley]

...In addition, I will be moving in about a 3-4 weeks, possibly less.

Should I...

1) Get this deal now.

2) OR...Move ( use Movers Program ) and then call up and hope I can this or something similar?

Not wanting to be too greedy..



Last month, I jumped on the BB half-off coupon deal/scam and thought I'd scored a pretty good price. :eek: There is no easy way to predict the future of supply and pricing in consumer electronics, except that things keep getting cheaper. However, many suspect these bargain prices at D* are designed to eliminate their stock of HD-Tivos before the switch to MPEG-4. :confused:

There is some chance a better deal will come along; there is a better chance this deal will still be available after your move; and there is the possibility that the sale and inventory of Tivos will be gone. Why gamble when D* makes your move painless and you can have the Tivo now? You'll be able to watch some HD programming at reduced resolution while you wait. :cool: That alternative is better than missing the boat. :(

[inaka]

As I mentioned above, I was told I had to add teh HD package for at least one year (and have some kind of service for two years). Then they gave me $5 off for six months. YMMV
No, the commitment is for just Total Choice or above. If fact, I didn't even have to add the HD package at all to take advantage of this deal.

[pjenkins]

The good news got better today at install. The deal was $199 after rebates, with $5 off my HD Package for 6 months when I called. When the installer called today to activate, they said that they couldn't discount the package like that due to something in my account history/notes/etc., but the CSR could adjust the monthly service instead to accomplish the same thing. But, when I was talking to him, he said that I have been a customer for long enough and that rather than taking $5 off for 6 months, he'd take $25 off for 3. Now, I'm no math major, but that worked out better :) We'll see if it comes through on my next month's bill that way or not!!

[Dssturbo1]

I finally pulled the trigger on this.

I called four times over four days and I must say, everyone I spoke to was very very nice and pleasant to talk to. That earlier djchonic was almost certainly a troll. The folks I spoke to were professional and friendly, I actually had a good bit of fun with them (last night the late shift was having an HBO sponsored "Rome" party - I failed to ask about the togas but it sure sounded like they were having fun).

I give the Retention Service group a big thumbs up. :up:

Anyway, I too was told that the programming deals were either no longer available or only for those who have been with them for several years (I'm just at one year). The $299 - $100 seems to be general knowledge - but you should ask. I wanted a second non-HD Tivo for the $99 - $100 rebate, which they eventually threw in.

So 1 HD and 1 SD Tivo for $200 - not the best deal posted but I am very happy - and it gets installed Monday!
glad the csr were nice, but you need to call back and have them verify the rebates. With the MIR mail in rebate you are only allowed 1- $100 rebate per dtv account.

[sjberra]

yep That is me

I might try and call again after I get home before I go buy one..... dont matter to me..... but if the guy will just leave it and I sign and he gets payed cool.

Going to do something similiar, I already have a dvr wired into the HT so do not need cables pulled to the location. While the installer is out on the roof installing the OTA/updated dish and the additional cable pull to move the currect SD-DVR to the kids playroom I will unpack the DVR and cable it in correctly to the HT.

[DavidS]

No, the commitment is for just Total Choice or above. If fact, I didn't even have to add the HD package at all to take advantage of this deal.

You're commitment was for only Total Choice or above. Good for you. I'm just saying I was told otherwise. As I also said, YMMV.

[jap3]

As I mentioned above, I was told I had to add teh HD package for at least one year (and have some kind of service for two years). Then they gave me $5 off for six months. YMMV

I was told DTV would LIKE me to keep the HD package for one year, but I get 1/2 year at 1/2 off. I guess if I don't, they won't consider me an "Outstanding Customer". I do have to keep a 2 year contract, which I was not happy about, but I've been with them 8 years so far and cable is outrageous.

[tsrail]

Called retention an hour ago. Said I was interested in the HD Tivo. Any specials?

She offered:
$299
-$100 MIR

Kewl. :rolleyes: I said any deal on the HD package? She said:

Free HD for 3months. (10.99 after that)

Kewl. :o I said: Any current deals on premium channels? (I currently have only basic TC + locals with 1 SD Tivo. Been a customer Since Oct. 2004. $49/month avg. bill) She said :

Showtime free for 6 months.

Hmmm.... :cool: what's the cost on the TC Premeire, the one with all of the Premium channels? She said:

I can offer it free for 2 months. (93.99 after that. I can cancel after the 2 free months)

Sweet. :D :D Let's do it.

She said (after 10 minutes....) Our system is not responding now. I will note your account, and we'll call you back within 24-48 hours.


I'll post the result. (They've already added the Premium channels to my account...just checked).

I'll check on Account Credits when I call back. ;)

*************

Oh, and she said "credit card" or "add to bill" is fine. I have always had CC AutoPay on my account.

Thanks everyone for your help. Thank you DirecTV :up: for working with and rewarding existing customers!!! I was actually going to switch to Adelphia HD + cable modem next month when my D* contract expired. Not now! (Thank GOD I read this forum yesterday!!!)

(FYI - I did not mention anything about leaving when I spoke to retention. The conversation was like I stated above)

*****************
UPDATE: Got the deal as above. No further discounts. :( (I asked 3 times). Also, I realized that I am NOT getting TCPremiere free for 2months, but they are adding all Movie/Sport packages for 2 months. (Meaning, I still pay my base TC rate for the next 2 months). Not as good, but overall, a nice deal.

[AccidenT]

I got the deal today.
$299
-$100 MIR
-$5/month for 6 months on the HD package

I've been a customer for a little over a year and just have the Total Choice package. I didn't threaten cancellation, I just simply stated that I had heard there was a really good deal on the HD-TiVo.

She mentioned that it is normally only for customers who have been w/ D* for over 2 years, but would ask her manager if it was ok. About 5 seconds later she was back on the phone saying it had been approved. I asked about a deal on HBO (I'm already on month 4 of 6 free months of Showtime) and she said I hadn't been a customer long enough for that.

I agreed to the 2 year commitment.

I'm still very happy with this deal, considering what I was looking at paying for one of these as little as 3 months ago. Thanks to everyone for their help!

[skillznbonez]

To cdieren: Anything through D* requires an installer to bring out. When the tech arrives, you can tell the tech that you prefer to do your own install. Just sign the papers and the should leave the equipment there. My prior comment referred to the address where tech can deliver it. The CSR can put in the order system any address you prefer as long as it is also in the main system.
Sorry for the confusion.

[rond310]

Just made call #1 and was told the HD DVR is 699-100 mir. I will try again later. It is a bit ridiculous that you have to usually make so many calls and that the CSR's all seem to have different info. I guess my first try at CSR roulette came up double zero :)

To get a deal like this I don't mind jumping through a few hoops though.

[kalphoto]

I swear. I must have bad luck. I just spent 10 minutes on the phone with CSR and the only deal he could give me was $649 - $100 credit - $100 rebate = $449 = TOO EXPENSIVE.

He proceeded to say that everyone on this forum must be getting this deal elsewhere because DirecTV does not have this deal. He said "we don't have that deal". I said "well, people are getting this deal". He said "well... don't believe what you read on the internet".

What the f*ck? Is this just luck of the draw? Should I call back, hoping I get a different CSR rep? They note every time I call (they say, looks like you called on this date), etc. etc.

Any advice?

[AccidenT]

I swear. I must have bad luck. I just spent 10 minutes on the phone with CSR and the only deal he could give me was $649 - $100 credit - $100 rebate = $449 = TOO EXPENSIVE.

He proceeded to say that everyone on this forum must be getting this deal elsewhere because DirecTV does not have this deal. He said "we don't have that deal". I said "well, people are getting this deal". He said "well... don't believe what you read on the internet".

What the f*ck? Is this just luck of the draw? Should I call back, hoping I get a different CSR rep? They note every time I call (they say, looks like you called on this date), etc. etc.

Any advice?


Are you calling customer retention or the regular customer service #? I called retention (1-800-600-8977) and it worked my first try.

[kalphoto]

I'm calling retention. The guy was nice, but flat out said the offer didn't exist. Not that I couldn't get the offer, he in fact thanked me for being a long time customer (2+ years on current account, 2 years + on prior address account).

I just don't get why it depends on who you get. Very frustrating. I will wait a few days and try again. I'm getting pretty sick of this though. If it wasn't for the fact that I am addicted to the NFL Sunday Ticket I would go back to DishNetwork.

If anyone else has any advice as to getting a CSR who will give this deal, I'd love to know. Thanks!

[rond310]

I also called the same number you did.

[Tim C]

I called D* last night and was told that there is no such deal. But I was offered free Showime for 6 months and could add HBO to the 6 month deal for $2. I also printed out the $100 rebate form and am sending that in. So I'll end up getting my HD DVR for $399 when all is said and done.

[reubenray]

This sucks!!!!!!! I was getting ready to call them about the deal. My problem is I will be moving into a new house in about 2 months so was wanting to wait until then.

[dwynne]

Hey how does the picture look if you use the componet output? I don't have DVI/HDMI connection. Will this be bad in the future, or will componet connections always be around? Thanks.

It looks just fine via component, no problem. The HDTivo will convert whatever the broadcast format is (720p or 1080i) to whatever your set likes the best and you will be all set.

Dennis

[AccidenT]

This sucks!!!!!!! I was getting ready to call them about the deal. My problem is I will be moving into a new house in about 2 months so was wanting to wait until then.

Why wait? The receiver isn't heavy enough to be a noticably greater burden while you move :D

Seriously though, weren't you planning to use the mover's program anyway? The install for all of your receivers is free through that, and as far as I can tell there isn't a limit on a # of receivers.

[reubenray]

I also called the same number you did.

This same subject is being discussed on several forums. When I get home tonight I am going to check to see if the phone number is the same.

[raaj]

Hey guys.. I really want to take advantage of this offer. So, basically some of you guys are scoring the $299 HD TiVO, with $100 credit and $100 MIR, and credit towards hi-def package for 6 months.. :eek: Good for you.

Now, does this deal also give you a free install, or are you going to get ripped off with installation charges? How about if you just have a TC+ SD package? What about the cost of a new HD Dish and receiver, then? And this HDTiVo that you are getting, does it allow you to connect to an external DVD recorder to burn off your fav stuff? And what are your exit options from all these fab freebies, like if you want to ditch the premier channels, or get out of any multi-year commitments, etc. The only irritant with DirecTV for me is when it rains (which is too frequent, here in Florida), the reception cuts off.. So, it would be nice to know my exit options, as I might actually move to some other place, and god forbid I end up in a black hole (like my previous apartment in Virginia) where I could not get a LOS to the sat..

Please clarify.

[austinsho]

OK, well, second time is the charm!

Called retention and even though I'm only three months into a two year committment, they were more than happy to drop another box on me at $299 with the $100 rebate, with HBO at $2/month for six months as well.

The moral of this story...call retention, NOT the front line CSRs.

No charge for installation. As for DVD burning, just set to the box to 480i, hook up a DVD recorder to the composite/audio outputs and press record! It works like a charm.

[JoeSchueller]

Do you have to dial retention directly, or do you call a normal CSR and tell them you're leaving?

Also, is that $299 cost - $100 rebate for a $199 net cost, or is $299 the net cost to you?

One more thing: Did they insist on installing it, or will they just mail you the box? I'd rather install myself and already have the right dish/wiring.

[BillyT2002]

You have to call retention directly... (800) 600-8977

$299.00 - $100.00 - $more (if you can swindle a better deal) = $199.00 or less net cost to you.

Not only do they insist on installing it - the installer will deliver the box - AFAIK this is non-negotiable.

[raaj]

So, you lucky souls that got this offer, did you already have the DirecTV HD package with the HD dish and receiver, or did you get to upgrade from the SD package all the way with the HDTiVO, the HD dish and the receiver ??

I remember trying to upgrade to the HD package a few months earlier, and I got quoted $300 for the receiver, and a hefty installation charge to upgrade the SD dish to a HD dish. I :eek: and backed out.

[cdieren]

To cdieren: Anything through D* requires an installer to bring out. When the tech arrives, you can tell the tech that you prefer to do your own install. Just sign the papers and the should leave the equipment there. My prior comment referred to the address where tech can deliver it. The CSR can put in the order system any address you prefer as long as it is also in the main system.
Sorry for the confusion.

I finally found a workaround on the required installer issue:

I first confirmed the $299 - $100 MIR = $199, plus 6 mos. free Showtime and $5 credit on HD pack for 6 mos.

Then, instead of giving installer details, I asked if I could purchase the unit myself with a DirecTV credit to my account to makeup the difference between my cost and the $299. He offered a $250 credit, and I agreed - this will be shown on my account at the time of activation of my receiver.

I then ordered a new unit from an online vendor for about $510 delivered in 2 days.

So my net cost will be $510 - $250 credit - $100 MIR = $160.....plus the free showtime and HD pack credit........Plus I will get it sooner AND without risk to my DNS feeds (this was my biggest concern with changing service address for install).

[alexcue]

raaj, no... did not have the HD package. They didn't even force me to add it. The standard installation is free, to enable the reception of the 3 sats locations. The only thing added to my deal was the Shipping $15 (also negotiable i've heard) + tax.

[raaj]

Thanks, Alex. With the new NFL season about to start, I will give this another try.

And I asked this earlier.. in the unlikely event that I need to drop the DirecTV service or the HD packages, what are the exit options if you get this $299 +++ offer?

Currently, Comcast is making major strides in my area, with free video on demand, and I must say, it is a tempting feature.

[Sakboy]

I just called and was given the $299 - $100 rebate. When I asked about any other deal's she said nothing else to offer. When I mentioned this web site, she said people are just saying they got deal's when the really are not. Im talking about a discount on the hi def package, HBO, or local hd antenna. I've called twice, should I keep calling or just take that deal?

[kndust]

Don't want to rain on anyones parade but are these units brand new or are they rebuilts from all the early models (like mine) that crashed and had to be replaced?
I know the new ones have 2-250gb drives for the same original price as the old ones so if they are just fire selling the old models, that's ok.



They are brand new Units

[kndust]

Well, we'll just agree to disagree. I am loyal, but I'm not stupid.

What I want is HD content at the best possible resolution. If D* isn't going to provide that, then I will leave. Right now D* - and all of its "loyal" customers - remind me of car buyers in the 70s. Don't buy Honda, buy a GM. Buying a Honda is unAmerican. GM was the best and it will be the best again. Trust GM they will do the right thing.

Well, I'm not going to blindly follow. Frankly, that blind loyalty is what sunk GM, and it's what will sink D* if it doesn't get its act together.


Then go And Keep on going We do not need you If you think We do not care. We have sent new sat up just 2 months ago and more are going up within 2 yrs that will only broadcast hd so go we don't need you and we will see you when you come crawling back to us crying that you want to get an hd receiver at disc . bye bye little bird fly away

[kndust]

When you have to commit to (say) 2 years service to get these deals, do you have to commit to the HD package for 2 yrs, or just continue your existing subscription?

I would use the HD tivo only for OTA HD and D* SD.




yes you do have to commit to 2yrs

[kndust]

Well I'd be sincere no matter how you try it. I personally would not threaten to leave and you can't anyway i guess lol. I'd say hey, i need a new tivo and what do you have going on? they will offer you the standard 100 free tivo.

Then call retention later and ask about the HD tivo for 299-100. after they give it to you, say you need to think about it. Then call back tomorrow. Then say last night you talked to someone for 199 but can they do better? I believe that's totally fair, moral and all that stuff. you aren't lying and you aren't scamming or anything. you just politely are asking for better deals.

That's how i'd do it! (and did it)

It does not work like that, we make notes on all accounts that we make offers and the next rep will only honor what was posted by prev reps and offers are given a date that they will be honored till it may look like this offer is good till 9/9/05 or only good till such and such date or may only be for that call

[n6idf]

Then go And Keep on going We do not need you If you think We do not care. We have sent new sat up just 2 months ago and more are going up within 2 yrs that will only broadcast hd so go we don't need you and we will see you when you come crawling back to us crying that you want to get an hd receiver at disc . bye bye little bird fly away

Wow, I might just cancel my account because they hire people like you! I love my service, but if that is the attitude of DTV reps, GOODBYE!

[kbohip]

I decided to go ahead with the HD-Tivo even taking into account Directv's (sorry in advance to the fanboys) pathetic HD lineup. I figure I can just cancel the HD pack in 6 months if D* hasn't added any more channels by then. The cool thing is my ancient rooftop antenna is able to pull in all of my local channels in digital quality. Watching a movie on FOX last night in HD while knowing it was coming in off my clunker antenna was a strange experience :p.

Here's the deal I got:

$299-100 rebate HD-Tivo
6 months free Showtime
6 months of HBO at $2 a month
$5 off HD pack for 6 months, which is what the normal price should be for the current HD pack.

I like Directv SO much better than E*. It would cost me $250 for the privilage of renting their HD-DVR, and I'd have to pay an extra $5 a month for not having it plugged into a phone line!

[kndust]

You have to call retention directly... (800) 600-8977

$299.00 - $100.00 - $more (if you can swindle a better deal) = $199.00 or less net cost to you.

Not only do they insist on installing it - the installer will deliver the box - AFAIK this is non-negotiable.


Swindle you sound like a thief to me, and when I get my hands on the person that gave that # out why I'm gonna !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[austinsho]

I just called and was given the $299 - $100 rebate. When I asked about any other deal's she said nothing else to offer. When I mentioned this web site, she said people are just saying they got deal's when the really are not. Im talking about a discount on the hi def package, HBO, or local hd antenna. I've called twice, should I keep calling or just take that deal?


DirecTV is really playing with some oddball language, at least that's my experience.

For instance, when I got my $299/$100 rebate deal, I specifically asked if there were any offers on HBO as well. The rep (in retention) said no, there were no "deals" for HBO, but that he could offer me HBO for six months for $10 off per month.

What??? :confused: :confused: :confused:

Sooooooooo.....it's not a "deal", but you can get HBO for $2/month for six months if you ask.

[austinsho]

Wow, I might just cancel my account because they hire people like you! I love my service, but if that is the attitude of DTV reps, GOODBYE!

If you think this guy's a rep, I've got some swampland in which you might be interested! :D

Even if he/she/it should be, it's not worth baiting him/her/it.

[n6idf]

:) I like swampland!

[slocko]

man i really screwed this up. i bought a new tivo over 2 months ago during the bestbuy coupon craze. since i was in the process of moving, i never activated it until today.

turns out that starting august 1st, all advanced receiver activations automatcially add a 2 year commitment to the account.

the only good thing that came out of this was that i got them to give me $300 credit, hbo for 2 dollars for 6 months, 10 dollars off my hd and local package for 6 months, and free showtime. since my move already committed me for a year, i guess it's only one additional year commitment.

to make matters worse, i lost my hd locals when i moved from ny area to tampa area. with my luck, an audit review will take it all away :(

i think the new policy really sucks.

[newsposter]

It does not work like that, we make notes on all accounts that we make offers and the next rep will only honor what was posted by prev reps and offers are given a date that they will be honored till it may look like this offer is good till 9/9/05 or only good till such and such date or may only be for that call

Well since it's exactly how i got it, I do have to disagree. (of course we all know how likeable i am lol) After the 1st call that he gave me 299-100, i called back the next day and said that last night i talked to ..... and he gave me the deal but i was wondering if there was anything else he could give me and he instantly, without hesitation, said 20 bucks for 6 months.

now 'maybe' the guy from the previous night put a note in for me? dont know. but i got it exactly as i stated, no BSing or threatening to leave etc. Just politely asking for more. Maybe my great payment record and longevity had to do with it? and i'm TCP for my entire DTV life.

They got a happy customer for 2 years for sure

Will they install in a light rain?

[slocko]

hmmm, i think i might be eligible for the $100 rebate. this deal might not be so bad after all!

[Richard Chalk]

It does not work like that, we make notes on all accounts that we make offers and the next rep will only honor what was posted by prev reps and offers are given a date that they will be honored till it may look like this offer is good till 9/9/05 or only good till such and such date or may only be for that call

first of all if you talk the way you write i hope i dont have to talk to you because without pausing to take a breath i might find it annoying...

Anyway, it doesn't work the way you describe, and if it is supposed to work that way, your CSRs are not following instructions. I know this because on my final call, the rep actually read me the notes from the previous call, and then said " I can offer it, no problem".

In the meantime, all you are accomplishing by your remarks is to decrease your credibility. Either you are lying outright, or you have no idea what is actually going on, neither of which makes you a good employee. If, on the other hand, you are trying to discourage others from calling, I'm sorry, but you are SERIOUSLY Outnumbered!!!

[Wilhite]

blah blah blah yadda yadda yadda blah blah blah

Everyone, please don't feed the troll. It really serves no purpose at all.

[dj4monie]

I have Total Choice w/ locals, the HD package, HBO (from time to time, ie. when new Sopranos are coming on!), HD package, and the DVR service. Believe my average bill is around 65 a month? I also subscribe to the MLB Extra Innings package.

I gotta believe if you have had late payment, missed payment, etc. before, that can't help your case any...

This is great deal, but I have to make a few comments here that seem to get missed.

Back on page 1, a board member who got one of the more outragous deals mentioned that the CSR said he was a "Valued Customer".

That means -

Long Term Subscriber, Payments on Time and Currently using all the services or most of them.

That means for those of you still not getting the deal your looking for, has a bad payment history or what I have seen is most of the complainers are NEW SUBSCRIBERS. That means YOU WON'T GET THE SAME DEAL in most cases and most likely NOT on the first try.

Back when D* was letting the SDTivo's go for $99, I first found out on this site, did what others have done and got a unit for $99. My father had called up a couple of days before and got his Tivo for full price. I told him that my mom just got her's for $99 and that to call up Retention and ask for a credit or rebate.

He called up regular customer service and didn't get anyplace.

What he should have done was call Retention, but since he didn't do that and this deal is just the one we are looking for to make the jump to HDTivo were going to do it tomorrow.

After having D*Tv for 10 years, and never having a late payment, EVER, I have little doubt I can get the same sweet deal that others have gotten plus discounts on packaging.

You never get something for nothing, so I wish people would stop assuming that...

[BillyT2002]

Swindle you sound like a thief to me, and when I get my hands on the person that gave that # out why I'm gonna !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hey it's a verb as good as any, and if I'm a thief, I'm a thief who currently pays DirecTV $103.48 a month for service (so apparently I'm not a very good one). You sir, are a disturbed individual. ;)

Also, I didn't originally post the phone number, but I'm going to make it my mission in life to share the phone number, along with the information regarding the deal(s) on every relevant web site possible. Why? I don't know, I just get a kick out of making you angry, I guess. ;)

[newsposter]

Hey why haven't i gotten a notice about the 5.99 tivo fee? Even though i have TCP shouldn't they have put a stuffer in everyone's bill by now?

[bidger]

Hey why haven't i gotten a notice about the 5.99 tivo fee? Even though i have TCP shouldn't they have put a stuffer in everyone's bill by now? If TCP= Total Choice Premier, then you don't have to worry about DVR fees at all.

[rickmccamy]

Why? I don't know, I just get a kick out of making you angry, I guess. ;)
It is rewarding, isn't it?

[raaj]

Just got off the phone with the retention dept, and I got a very co-operative CSR, and right off the bat, she offered me $299-100 MIR + S&H for the HR10-250, with $50 OTA antenna and free install, plus free Showtime for 3 months, $5 off on TC+ and $5 off on the HD package for 6 months.

That is the best she said she could offer, and that there were no more offers on HBO package at the moment. I told her I was very interested in the package, but would need some time to consider. I will try again later to see if I can get an additional $100 credit on the account. I am not really interested in the HBO/Cinemax offers and would really like to get some other offer. Hopefully I will be offered something else like further discounts on the TC+ and HD packages.

[ort]

What happens if you decide that you want to back out of a two year contract? What do they charge you?

[raaj]

What happens if you decide that you want to back out of a two year contract? What do they charge you?

Quoting from https://www.directv.com/see/landing/dvr_rebate.html

REBATE DETAILS: Offer valid between 08/01/05 and 11/05/05 for customers who activate DIRECTV DVR service and purchase 24 consecutive months (without interruption) of any TOTAL CHOICE programming package ($41.99/mo. or above), DIRECTV PARA TODOS programming package ($29.99/mo. or above) or qualifying international services bundle within 30 days of equipment purchase. In certain markets, programming and pricing may vary. DVR service activation required. FAILURE TO ACTIVATE THE DIRECTV SYSTEM WITHIN 30 DAYS OF PURCHASE MAY RESULT IN A CHARGE OF $150 PER DIRECTV RECEIVER NOT ACTIVATED. IF YOU FAIL TO MAINTAIN YOUR PROGRAMMING COMMITMENT, DIRECTV MAY CHARGE YOU A PRORATED FEE OF UP TO $300 FOR ADVANCED RECEIVERS. IN LIEU OF PAYMENT, YOU HAVE AN OPTION TO SEND YOUR DIRECTV SYSTEM TO DIRECTV. VISIT DIRECTV.COM OR CALL 1-800-DIRECTV FOR DETAILS.

I think you need to send back the HD-DVR, the HD-Antenna and everything associated, if you want to cancel the commitment before the 2 years, and you don't want to pay the monetary penalty.

[Dave Dirnberger]

Just got off the phone, call retention direct and got this deal:

$299.00
less:
$100.00 mail in rebate
HBO $10.00/month credit for 6 months ($60.00)
Free Showtime 6 months ($72.00)
$5.00 credit per month for 12 months ($60.00)

Net cost to me $7.00

Free installation this Friday!

Thanks to this group!!

Now, when will I get HD network programming through DTV?!?!? My CSR said by the end of 2005, which is coming up pretty quick here!

[JoeSchueller]

So the thinking must be that if your market is going Ka/MPEG-4 soon, they'll swap you the new HR15, or whatever they're going to call the KA/MPEG-4 HD DVR?

I'm so close to pulling the trigger!

EDIT:

So I did call, got offered $649 less $100 rebate less $250 programming credit for a grand total of $300 :-( They also talked about Showtime and some other useless crap. I also asked why I couldn't just go to BB and buy it for $599 less the rebate and get the $250 credit. He said he could offer that just the same. So I can't get it down to $199, but at $250 it is still a pretty nice deal. Decisions decisions.

[jim tressler]

Question - have any of you that have gotten more than the standard $299 - rebate price also recieved credits from them in the past?? IE.. I recieved my hughes HTL-HD reciever from them last year for $99 - so I already got some credits.. just wondering if its worth going to the well again?

thanks

jim

[slocko]

It's a crapshoot. I had one woman check my history for 2 years and tell me I was maxed out at $600 in credits.

The next day I got $300 right off the bat with the next rep, not including programming credits.

Question - have any of you that have gotten more than the standard $299 - rebate price also recieved credits from them in the past?? IE.. I recieved my hughes HTL-HD reciever from them last year for $99 - so I already got some credits.. just wondering if its worth going to the well again?

thanks

jim

[jcthomas]

I and others have been to the well serval times including twice on the HD TiVo. Give it a go.

Regards,

[jap3]

What happens if you decide that you want to back out of a two year contract? What do they charge you?

They told me $300 and it's pro-rated, so if you back out after only a month, it would be less $12.50.

[Gator1]

Todays ad in Circuit City has the H10 for $199. Does not say anything about a rebatge. Also has them on their web site, search H10.

[Gator1]

Todays ad in Circuit City has the H10 for $199. Does not say anything about a rebatge. Also has them on their web site, search H10.


I was confused. I thought this was a DVR and I now see it is not so I guess this is no special deal.

[bohlke]

I just called, talked to a very nice CSR she immediatly offered the $299 with $100 MIR, I asked if she could get it closer to $100 and she offered to credit me $99 so:

$299
-$100 MIR
-$99 DTV credit
------
$100 :)

They also offfered free install of a second cable, we will see how that goes. Anyway I probably could have asked for more (been with them for 10+years) but I figured $99 is a small price to pay. They come on Wednesday!

[andbye]

When I first called on Mon. 8-15, I told the retention CSR that I was interested in the HD TiVo deal for $299 with the $100 MIR and a $200 credit that I had heard about for valued customers. First CSR was a little snippy, had not heard of any $299 deals and said D* was not about to give away HD Tivos. Calling later I got a nice CSR that said she could not help me but proceeded to tell me all the bad things about Comcast and Dish; then said the best she could do was $336 plus the $100 MIR and a $200 account credit. I told her I would agree to that and asked her to repeat it. I don't know where she got the odd $37 unless it was s/h. I also asked about programming credits and she gave Starz for 3 months. She did not know anything about the mpeg4 transition, but said the HD Tivo units were new; not re-furbished . I thanked her politely.
Got a good install two days later which was just a swap out with an SD Tivo since I already had cables, OTA antenna and a previous HD Tivo. During activation call they gave me HD pkg for 3 months. When I checkes my account on the web; the $200 credit had not been listed so I called the D* installation number I had been given. They said the credit was noted and I would get it on the next bill. Later I called the installation number again to ask if the $200 credit could be put on the bill now so I would'nt take such a big credit card hit and they said the credit was noted but must transfer me to a dept that could do that for me. The person who came on the transferred number said I had no $200 credit and did not deserve one since I had had previous credits. I told her the credit must be noted since I had confirmed it twice. I did get the $99 deal on a non-Tivo HD unit but I did not get anything but some nominal programming credit when I got my first HD Tivo from BB for $900 over a year ago. She went on about previous credits and I told her I sub to Total Choice plus HD, HBO and Sunday NFL Ticket. Finally she agreed to a $100 credit which still is not appearing on my account. So my advice is to check your account to assure you get what was agreed to. My point is not whether I deserved the it, but that D* should make good on their deal
Sorry for the rant. Has anyone else had a similar experience?
On the plus side, the new unit is much faster than the old one and neither has HDMI/DVI problems

[austinsho]

Question - have any of you that have gotten more than the standard $299 - rebate price also recieved credits from them in the past?? IE.. I recieved my hughes HTL-HD reciever from them last year for $99 - so I already got some credits.. just wondering if its worth going to the well again?

thanks

jim

Sure did...got the $299/$100 rebate deal Friday, got a $250 credit toward puchasing my first HDTivo (at $750) during March. I was really surprised that I got the deal, given that I'm only six months or less into a two year committment.

[jim tressler]

I called for the heck of it today.. standard 299-100 offer and free superfan for the sunday ticket.. i will probably call back later in the week to see if I can get more

jim

[DVRaholic]

If I were you I would act before Aug 31st. Who knows when they will end this Deal. It has been rumored that it will end on the 31st. Just think how many Directv retailers like Value Electronics are losing out. It has to end sometime soon!!

[theratpatrol]

I called for the heck of it today.. standard 299-100 offer and free superfan for the sunday ticket.. i will probably call back later in the week to see if I can get more

jim

WOW, free superfan, did you take that deal? How much more do you think you can get? :D

[SoonerBorn]

Question - have any of you that have gotten more than the standard $299 - rebate price also recieved credits from them in the past?? IE.. I recieved my hughes HTL-HD reciever from them last year for $99 - so I already got some credits.. just wondering if its worth going to the well again?

thanks

jim

Newbie here - I have previously received a $100 acct credit for an 80 Hr Tivo that I was able to buy at BB @ a year ago. After all the advice from this thread, here's what I came in with:

1st call: $349(+S&H) for HD Tivo + OTA and install - $100 MIR & $5 off HD pkg/6mth; $5 off TC+/6mth; 2fer2 (HBO,Show $2)/6mth. Would not budge on Acct credit that they offered when price was $699.

2nd call: same as first except after telling them that a new cable company had gotten into the neighborhood and were offering HD DVRs for lease with their service they relented and gave me the $200 credit that they had previously offered.

I'm pretty stoked! Set to install Friday afternoon, just in time for the start of college football. Now, let's hope I don't get the postponed install call that others seem to be getting.

Good luck to all-

BG

[tucsonbill]

Well, we'll just agree to disagree. I am loyal, but I'm not stupid.
I think I'll agree that some one who claims to have been the subject of a personal attack when there was nothing personal in the post and then proceeds to call someone an ignorant idiot isn't someone that anyone is likely to listen to here.

[Cwaters]

I just called and whined about having paid $549 online on Friday (activated the box last Tuesday) and got a $200 credit.
Cory
installed his first season passes today! No more missing F1 races :)

Well I got my bill and the promised $200 credit was only $50. I called and pleaded my cast for about half an hour but, since I have no way to proove that that's what the retention CSR said, they didn't believe me. I got another programming credit to soften the blow but he was very adimate that $200 on too of the other stuff from my deal was not an option.
Oh well. I felt like it was too good to be true anyway.
CW

[raaj]

Tried to get a better deal than the $299-$100 MIR, but was told to take it or leave it !! The CSR was polite, but tried to tell me that the news on them internets about $299 deal was "impossible", and that the deal I was offered was unheard of !! :o

I would have taken the deal, if no one else was getting all those reidiculous credits and package bundles. With all the reported problems with the HDMI and the HDDs, I would have found this deal irresistable at $199. And that 13% surcharge on Satellite TV in godforsaken Florida doesn't help the overall price either. :rolleyes:

[davemanley]

I called Retention today and said I wanted to upgrade to HDTV, but loved having Tivo. The rep asked if mine was a stand-alone unit, I said yes.

She offered a hi-def Tivo for $649 minus $100 MIR (the standard offer of the DirecTV web site). So I said a couple of friends had recently gotten the unit for $299, and the company had thrown in free HBO/SHO for 6 months, etc.

The rep told me they had a $299 price available "by request only," but that there were no discounts on programming.

I said okay and she scheduled an install for TOMORROW morning!

I asked about the upcoming converstion to MPEG-4, and when Boston would receive local channels in hi-def. She replied, Boston will be able to receive hi-def locals by end-of-year 2005, and that DirecTV will offer a NO-COST equipment replacement when the MPEG-4 programming starts.

I asked again, about the no-cost upgrade, to verify that she meant a new PVR (not Tivo). She said yes, new PVR, similar cababilities, but not from Tivo, because their relationship with Tivo was ending.

[Dmtalon]

So...

I've got DirecTV, and a SA Series2 Tivo. Also have an HDTV and OTA antenna. Last night ~8:45 we started watching Prison Break (aired on FOX) and saw the "Broadcast in HD" blob at the bottem and were like CRAP...

Tried to catch up to live TV so we could finish watching it in HD, but didn't :-( So we were talking about how nice it would be to have one, but just couldn't justify the price listed at Best Buy and DirecTV.

Well just for whatever reason I go into the HDTIVO forum here this morning instead of the HMO one and found this thread.

Caled and talked to Marie at Customer Retension and at first she "couldn't find" the deal. I started the conversation telling her I'd seen it on TivoCommunity forums. She looked around and a few seconds later said... "Ah, here it is"

So I ended up with:

$299.00
-$100.00
+$ 14.95

And $5.99/mo for the first 6 months


I can't thank you guys/gals enough!! The craziest part is it should be installed tomorrow morning!!!

Yay!! Tivo :-)


Oh, she told me a phone line was/is REQUIRED for this unit. Is this true? I'll search around the forums but since i'm here posting I figured i'd ask

[tBfree]

Thanks everyone for alerting me to the HD10-250 price drop, I am now happily enjoying HD!

The deal I got might help those that have bought or are about to buy a new hi def tv. I had bought a new Sony LCD last week at C*C. I then have been watching the prices in case it drops to get the difference within 30 days. This weekend I noticed B*Buy offering $200 dollars off an HD Tivo when purchased with an HDTV 30" or larger. I went back to C*C and they were cool about it and re-rang my purchase, included the HD DVR and matched the offer.

I had already talked with D*tv Retention and had all the discounts set up. they honored them all, including the $250.00 credit towards the HD unit.

Final cost to me: $599 - $200 (coupon match) - $250 (retention credit) - $100 (mail in rebate) = $49

Coupled with the other discounts I'm very happy. and I have the option of returning it to a store if there is any issues in the first month. the thing I didn't get though is the OTA and I don't know if they will still install this for me if I need it for the $50 originally offered in the package. I'm trying my luck with doing the antenna myself.

Anyways in case this helps any one in similar situation. Here is the link to the coupon -
http://images.bestbuy.com/BestBuy_U...HT_Sports02.pdf


tBfree - now in HD

[toneman]

FWIW--the installer wouldn't give me/install an external multiswitch as requested when he came out to install the HD10-250; I explained to him that I needed it, as I was gonna hook up an outdoor OTA antenna. As such, it was either give me a 5x8 (or 5 x whatever) external multiswitch or run a separate coax line from the OTA antenna to my HD10. Since the work order did not call for either--even though I had specifically requested for an external multiswitch for the reason just mentioned above--I was a bit unhappy about being told that one would not be provided.

In any case, I called retention to voice my displeasure; the rep totally understood where I was coming from and scheduled to have an installer come out and rerun the cabling to the external multiswitch so that I could hook up an outdoor antenna. At that point, I pressed my luck a bit and asked him what else he could give me to compensate for the incovenience (no multiswitch in the first place plus now I needed to set aside time to wait the the installer to bring one out); he was willing to give me either free Showtime or $2 HBO for six months. I told him that that wasn't good enough, considering that I just bought the HD10, signed up for the HD package, and recommitted for 2 more years...could he give me both so that I could at least try out HBO and Showtime HD? No problem...so now, I got/will be getting:

HD10-250 $299 - $100 MIR;
Free Showtime for 6 months;
$2 HBO for 6 months;
Credit for shipping and handling for dish and DVR;
$5 off HD programming for six months;
Free 5x8 multiswitch (from what I hear, they won't necessarily just give it to you for free if it turns out the 4-way built-in multiswitch is adequate for your particular setup).

Call me greedy, but I will be calling retention again--my HD10 just died yesterday. I will see if I can get some more credits--I mean, what good is paying for HD programming and receiving free HD premium channel programming if you can't watch/record any of it because your HD DVR is dead after just three days and you have to wait who knows how long before a replacement is shipped to you...and in the meantime, you can't watch any DTV programming in the family room (where the HD10 was located)?

[Alan Gordon]

FWIW--the installer wouldn't give me/install an external multiswitch as requested when he came out to install the HD10-250; I explained to him that I needed it, as I was gonna hook up an outdoor OTA antenna. As such, it was either give me a 5x8 (or 5 x whatever) external multiswitch or run a separate coax line from the OTA antenna to my HD10. Since the work order did not call for either--even though I had specifically requested for an external multiswitch for the reason just mentioned above--I was a bit unhappy about being told that one would not be provided.

Well, my install was scheduled for Thursday afternoon (August 25) between 1:00 P.M. and 5:00 P.M.. I went outside and opened the gate around 11:00 A.M., sat in the den with my cordless phone by my side playing Spider-Man 2 on my X-Box. About 12:15, the installer called asking for additional directions (he went right by me, but didn't understand how exact the directions are), and said that he'd see me in a minute (early, not too bad!). He came in, and I explained that I already had one line from the Phase III dish ran to where the HD-TiVo was going to be (from when I had my Hughes HTL-HD), and that I would run the second line myself later, but that I would need a multi-switch to do so, when he informed me that he didn't have one on him because the order form mentioned nothing about needing a multiswitch (even though I told the CSR that I WAS going to need a multiswitch), and proceeded to show me the order form (which listed the HD-TiVo, Phase III dish and basic install). He then asked to borrow my phone and walked outside to make the phone call. I then proceeded to to unpack the HD-TiVo, hook it up, and was finished by the time he walked back in. He then proceeded to tell me that he could bring me a powered multiswitch by later (I should have told him I needed it right then, but was stupid enough not to), and I started telling him how I told the CSR I needed the multiswitch, and she told me that the installer would have everything I needed. I mentioned about how the dish was nice since one of the outputs on my Phase III LNB had problems with a couple of transponders and he handed me a new LNB (I could have gotten the dish too, but I didn't care about the new dish, just the new LNB, so I didn't say anything about that, especially since it could be any day when DirecTV starts offering national HD channels on the SpaceWay satellites with the new dish). We then went inside, activated the new HD-TiVo, which took a little while, since even though the HD-TiVo was activated fairly quickly, the installer kept saying it would be another minute, and finally asked to speak to the installer again who had to inform her that LIL was not available in this DMA (I think she told him to change the channel to a LIL channel) and then asked him to turn to channel #370, during which time she mentioned some about an invalid card, before he told her that we had been watching DirecTV for several minutes.

After that he had me sign papers, and talk to his employers (answering questions about whether or not he asked me for money, and things like that). He then began to tell me that me that he could probably get out here with the multiswitch later that day (since he didn't live that far from here, about 8 miles), and that it could be a couple of days, but it would probably be that day, or the next, but probably that day. I then told him that we might go to town that day, and he said that it would be no problem and that he'd sit it on the deck, when I told him that the gate would be closed. We then worked out a plan where he could sit it where nobody would see it. He then explained to me how to install the multiswitch, and then asked me if I had enough RG6 cable, I told him that I needed to go to Home Depot to get some, and he ended up handing me some 200-300 feet of RG6, which will allow me to not only run the second line to the HD-TiVo, but to power the multiswitch, and run lines from the multiswitch to the two receivers currently hooked up to a second 18-inch round dish currently up.

However, we decided to stay home that day and go to town tomorrow, so I waited and the man never showed up, went to town the next day and I haven't seen a multiswitch yet. I might have been stupid to trust him, but I gave him til Monday, and then I called the local office of the installers and left a message for him with my name and number. That was yesterday, and I still haven't heard from him...

Now I seem to be having some issues with the HD-TiVo (see this post (http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?p=3197870&&#post3197870) for details).

~Alan

[tmdlkwd]

I have an old oval dish right now.
When I call in do I need request the OTA + the 3 LNB Dish with the install?
Do I need one

Many here, I see are jsut getting the OTA installed for $50.00

Not sure if they will just bring a 3 LNB Dish.

Sorry, for the slightly off topic question.

[newsposter]

they (edit: are SUPPOSED to) bring everything necessary to make your new stuff work

[Alan Gordon]

they bring everything necessary to make your new stuff work

Depending on who they are! ;)

~Alan

[slocko]

You have to make sure Direct documents everything. In my case they didn't bring the OTA antenna or the multiswitch. Had to reschedule.

One nice thing Direct seems to be doing now, is including the installation of phone lines whenever you do a Tivo. Before they would tell you to buy those outlet phone jacks.

they bring everything necessary to make your new stuff work

[im timmy]

I just got the $299 deal minus $100. I didn't c this thread til now, didn't know some of you were getting free programming and discounts. I am happy with the price of the box though!! I'm doin cartwheels this very moment!!

[toneman]

You have to make sure Direct documents everything. In my case they didn't bring the OTA antenna or the multiswitch. Had to reschedule.
Depends on what you mean by "document"--I asked DTV to make sure that my install package included an external multiswitch; the rep acknowledged my request...yet install day arrived and no multiswitch. Work order paperwork that the installer had with him listed only the HR10, 3-LNB dish, and basic install...unless it is somehow possible to access the input screen that the DTV CS reps use, there really is no way to make sure that DTV "documents" everything...other than getting the rep's name and ID #, which in itself doesn't show whether your request was logged into the system. I would up having to call retention to have them expedite my process to have one sent out to me ASAP.

Also--DTV will offer you the OTA antenna for $50 (or less/free, if you can get them to do so), but only with the HR10 package; if you decide after the order has been processed and completed (i.e., you're already up and running w/ your new HR10 and HD dish) that you want/need the DTV OTA antenna, DTV will not sell/give it to you. I tried and was told by the DTV rep that their system will not allow them to punch in an order for only the $50 OTA antenna...dunno if this is completely true, but that's what I was told. In any case, unless you can get DTV to give you the OTA antenna for free, you should definitely make sure that it'll be adequate for your needs. I mean, $50 may not be much, but it's still $50...

[bucky]

I'm a total choice premium customer with two Tivos and have been with D for about 6 years.

I got the typical deal others were getting.

$299-100 MIR + S&H for the HR10-250, with $50 OTA antenna and free install and $5 off on the HD package for 6 months. Plus a free location of one of my current Tivos.

I know some folks have done better but I was happy with this deal.

[SuperWade2]

I called this AM to try to get the HT-D*TIVO and was completly shot down becuase I had upgraded my 2nd D*TV unit to a TIVO a few months ago... the CSR Said that the computer system wouldn't allow 2 "upgrades" in a 6 month period...

I said thanks and told them that DISH or Comcast would soon have a new customer and she didn't seem to care and said "good-day"... must not have been very convincing...

SW2

BTW, they were just offering $349 - $100 MIR with OTA Antenna, but no other credits or anything...

I might try again later...

[drober30]

Once again this forum and all of you have saved me some money! Thanks!

I picked up my second HD TiVo from BB and then logged on to catch up on what’s been going on. I have been gone for awhile. New Job, School and baby! Lots going on.

All I did after reading this thread was call the retention dept at the number provided and explained to the rep that I just bought my receiver but then heard of the $299 deal.

The rep said I could return my box to BB and she would sell me one. I then asked for a credit and she said yes but the most she could do was $250 which is in line with what’s been posted here. So I took the credit.

Pretty good deal on this TiVo but I did pay $999 for my first so this helps average out the cost.

[raaj]

I was initially offered $299 plus S&H - $100 MIR, plus $50 for the OTA with free installation, plus $5 off on the TC+, $5 off on HD package and free Showtime for 3 months. I really wanted the SuperFan package more than the Showtime deal, and didn't take my first offer.

I called them two days ago, and the CSR I got was very curt, and told me that I could take the $299 deal with $100 MIR, or leave it. She said that she'd not honor the programming credits offered to me earlier, and said that I should be happy I was even getting the $299 deal. I told her that I would take the offer if she could include the SuperFan package, or I'll cancel the NFL:ST package too. She said "you're out of the time, since the season started on Aug 11th". I said "WTH, the season doesn't start till Sep 8th", but she said "No, the season started Aug 11th, because we say so, because we are the only one who can offer you the NFL:ST we say when the season starts !!" :mad: I told her that I won't talk to her anymore, and that I wanted to talk to her supervisor, and she said OK.

The supervisor then came on and said that the offer was supposed to be only for customers who have been with them for more than 10yrs, but that someone leaked the offer on this forum, and that since people from this forum were asking for that deal particularly, they were honoring the $299 price with MIR. He said that they circulated emails to all the CSRs to only honor the $299 deal, with no programming credits unless the customer has been with them for a looong time. However, he offered me a $5 discount on the HD package for 6mo, and I said screw these CSR-roulette games, and took the offer.

So, I am pretty positive, the programming credits game is pretty much over, and you'd be lucky if you got any concessions, if you weren't with D* for all your life. I guess even the $299 deal would not last for long now.

[scotte3]

I just placed my order. I got the HD Tivo for $299 plus $14.95 s/h, - $100 MIR, and the antenna for $50. In addition, I was given $5/mo credit on my Total Choice Plus for 6 mo, and $10/mo off HBO for 6 mo (normally $12/mo).

I think the programming credits are totally separate for the HD Tivo deal. You just have to ask if you qualify for any programming credits for an existing customer. I suppose you may or may not qualify depending on how long you've been a customer and whether your account is in good standing with DirecTV.

[Dmtalon]

Well, I ordered mine Tuesday, and it was installed yesterday. I'm now enjoying time-shifted HD programming :-)

Hoping the guide data will be all sorted out today so I can start getting my season passes entered in.

I did a call after the first few initial calls and the thing downloaded something that took near an hour. I forgot to check out what version AFTER the download, but PRE download was 3.1.5e or 3.5.1e whatever it is (e) was the last digit.

[jhurlbut]

I talked to 3 CSR's today and was only offered $649 - 100MIR . . . I've had my HD receiver for over 2 years now and my 2nd TiVo receiver for well over a year now. Shouldn't I be able to get the $299 deal too? Any suggestions?

[jhurlbut]

4th time is the charm. $299-100MIR SWEET!

[kalphoto]

I talked to 3 CSR's today and was only offered $649 - 100MIR . . . I've had my HD receiver for over 2 years now and my 2nd TiVo receiver for well over a year now. Shouldn't I be able to get the $299 deal too? Any suggestions?

Join the club of those of us who were "not so fortunate to get a nice CSR". I've tried 4 times and have serious doubts as to how this deal is gotten. I'm a 4 year subscriber and this is the 3rd year I've shelled out $200 for the NFL package.

I've resigned myself to wait it out for the MPEG4 HD box (hoping I can rent it) when it comes out early next year. Until then, I have my trusty HD antenna and will watch the local network games in HD for free.

[mikestanley]

I called yesterday and was at first offered $649 - $100 MIR. I told the nice gentleman I'd heard of other people getting a better deal. He asked me what the deal was and I said $299. He said he hadn't heard of that deal but would check. He put me on hold, came back, and seemed genuinely happy to offer me $299 - $100MIR.

I ended up getting the OTA antenna for $49 as well. I have an indoor antenna but wasn't able to get all of my locals (even though I'm less than 10 miles from most of them) at any one time - had to keep adjusting the antenna to get some while losing others.

I'm happy. No other programming discounts, but that's ok - not sure I'll keep the HD package for very long anyway, and I'll be happy with HD locals on this unit until I seee more compelling content on HD on the regular channels on DTV.

Just a question - say DTV switches over to Mpeg4 and I don't want to give up this unit and they eventually stop sending down Mpeg2. Will I be able to keep this unit around just to do OTA HD?

[raaj]

Just a question - say DTV switches over to Mpeg4 and I don't want to give up this unit and they eventually stop sending down Mpeg2. Will I be able to keep this unit around just to do OTA HD?

Of course you can, as long as you continue to subscribe to at least Total Choice level package of programming until your 2 year commitment period is complete.

[im timmy]

Join the club of those of us who were "not so fortunate to get a nice CSR". I've tried 4 times and have serious doubts as to how this deal is gotten. I'm a 4 year subscriber and this is the 3rd year I've shelled out $200 for the NFL package.

I've resigned myself to wait it out for the MPEG4 HD box (hoping I can rent it) when it comes out early next year. Until then, I have my trusty HD antenna and will watch the local network games in HD for free.
It's like you have too know the secret password almost! I called the 2nd time with the direct retention # and ask and you shall recieve. I didn't ask for the programming credits, I didn't know so many here were getting them. It's ok, I'm almost afraid to press my luck with a call back. It's screwy, some reps seem too be aware of such an offer while others are clueless. I think it's a case of "until they ask, we ain't givin."

[jim tressler]

update.. just called this am.. here is what I got them "down" to..

299-100 rebate / free superfan / free s and h / $20 TC Premier for 6 monts

I think thats as good as it gets

so if you look at it 299-100-100-50=$50 net cost (as I plan on getting superfan anyway and keeping TC premier)

jim

[mcblackman]

Just Hung up with a Nice lady at the Retention Dept.
I told her that I wasn't very happy about this Superfan deal where they were going to start charging me for something that I had free last year.
Then I told her that I was going through my bills and realized that I'd been paying anywhere from $150-$200 a month.
I mentioned that the Cable Company in my area was offering HD-DVR's for $7.95 a month and I just wanted to weigh all of my options. Asked her what she could offer me.
First thing she did was gave me the Superfan for free (she said only for this year).

I then said "what about an HD-DVR. -- she offered me the $299 - $100 rebate.
I asked about replacement when MPEG4 comes out. She said it would be replaced.

I then started adding some numbers (out loud) then asked "what kind of deals can you give me on movie channels now that fall is here". -- She offered 6 mo free Showtime and $2 mo HBO.

I'm very Satisfied!

HD-DVR for $299 - $100 Rebate.
Free Superfan
Free Showtime (6Mo)
$2 mo HBO (6Mo).

They are supposed to be out this Sunday!

[berserker37]

Got a nice CSR (Emily) on my first call, and ended up with a deal I'm happy with:

$299 HD Tivo (less the $100 mail in rebate)
HBO for $2/month for 6 months
Free Showtime for 6 months

2 week wait for installation, though.

Was going to get the $49 antenna for OTA, but she checked my location and said I can get my HD locals without it. Not sure if this is correct, or if I'd be better off quality-wise with an antenna, but we'll see. Any opinions?

This seemed like a good time to jump into the HD game, even though I don't have a true HD resolution set yet (I have an ED plasma and an ED projector). But since I needed to add a Tivo, figured why not go for this deal.

[sbarrier]

I got one at the first of August when the price dropped to $549 (via Value Electronics).

I called D* a couple of nights ago to inquire about getting another one. I called retention and the CSR told me that I could not purchase another one for 6 months!

I thanked her and than called the regular D* number. I spoke with a CSR there who sold me one for $299. It is amazing the completely different experiences that you can get when you call D*! :cool:

[neumanngroup]

Just called retention and this is what I got:

$299 HD Tivo
$14.95 Shipping
Tax
---------
$332.06

$100 Mail In Rebate
$20/month off TC Premier for 6 months
$5/month off HD package for 6 months

Not bad. They could install in 6 days but because of my schedule I opted for 8 days. Cannot wait!

Now I will have 2 HD Tivo's and 2 regular Tivo's in my house. Wahoo!

[Dssturbo1]

Got a nice CSR (Emily) on my first call, and ended up with a deal I'm happy with:

$299 HD Tivo (less the $100 mail in rebate)
HBO for $2/month for 6 months
Free Showtime for 6 months

2 week wait for installation, though.

Was going to get the $49 antenna for OTA, but she checked my location and said I can get my HD locals without it. Not sure if this is correct, or if I'd be better off quality-wise with an antenna, but we'll see. Any opinions?

This seemed like a good time to jump into the HD game, even though I don't have a true HD resolution set yet (I have an ED plasma and an ED projector). But since I needed to add a Tivo, figured why not go for this deal.
you do need an ota antennea to get all your local OTA Over the Air stations.
The only hd locals that the csr might have been referring to at this time are either the east or west coast hd feeds from NY or LA, and it would only be the 4 major networks, abc, cbs, nbc, and fox, not any hd from pbs wb upn independent etc.

the local into local HD channels coming in through dtv are supposed to be coming to the top 12 dma markets in the near future (nov?)

[newsposter]

update.. just called this am.. here is what I got them "down" to..

299-100 rebate / free superfan / free s and h / $20 TC Premier for 6 monts

I think thats as good as it gets


jim


wrong! when they show up at night and totally miss your install Appt you can get 50 bucks off. :)

[Jeproks]

I'm really pissed right now. Installation got cancelled for the 2nd time due to equipment being on backorder. Got re-scheduled on the 17th, exactly a month when I ordered it.

[Anubys]

I also thought that this is a good deal and ordered a second HD-Tivo...now they tell me they can't "install" it for 6 weeks!

I told the CSR that I don't need any installation and that waiting 6 weeks for someone to come plug the power cord is absurd...she will try to escalate, whatever the heck that means...but they can't just deliver the unit...

unbelievable :mad:

[Jeproks]

wrong! when they show up at night and totally miss your install Appt you can get 50 bucks off. :)

Can you please elaborate? My install already got cancelled twice.

[patrickpiteo]

Can you please elaborate? My install already got cancelled twice.
If they did not show up you can get a credit for your account. Just call anbd tell them.

[rickmccamy]

Had my install today, I had waited a couple of weeks to get a Saturday afternoon appointment. The installer was older, like me, and cool. I explained to him that I had no land line phone, and planned to initialize the box at my mother's house. He said that where ever I do it had to have a 3lnb dish to connect to. Is that correct? If so I'll go to my neighbor's house. Left me a dish I didn't need but was apparently entitled to. He connected another pair of cables from the dish to the house, and left me cable to complete the run.

[deepthinker]

Man I love this place. Bought my first HDTivo at BB almost two months ago for $600 when the first price drop happened. Was still concerned about MPEG4 etc, but retention gave me $100, so it was only $500 and I was happy with that, seeing as how people paid $1000 a year ago.

Well, HDMI port just died on this first unit, when coming here to post about it, I saw this thread. So, I called up retention, complained that I paid $500 for a unit that is now bad and see people getting them for $199 after rebate now. Well, by the end of the call, the wonder that is Customer Retention is shipping a replacement unit for my bad one, giving me $173 in credits over six months with free Showtime, and the $299 deal with $100 rebate for a second HDTivo to arrive this Tuesday!!!!!

Man will they bend over backwards to make a long time customer happy. I know of no other company that throws out as many discounts as they do to their customers. I have no worries about what they'll do for us with the MPEG4 conversion.

[tbh999]

Ordered mine today (Saturday 03 September 2005). Will be delivered Tuesday.

[llogan]

I used to have no problem making a two year commitment for DirecTV. Honestly though, with them dropping Tivo as of October this year (just selling them, they'll continue providing service to the boxes for a long time to come), i'm finding it extremely difficult to justify getting another HD Tivo. My reason being that I will in all likelihood, initially get DirecTV's new HD DVR so that I can stop having to rely on my crappy OTA reception (not that overcompressed HD will be much better...)

What's the termination fee anyway?

[Tim Sly]

I got my unit 2 weeks ago from eBay when Directv was still on the high side. I got it for $420. Unit was brand new but I got an overheating message when I tried to boot it up and activate it. Directv said it was a bad unit so they sent me a brand new unit by 2 day Fed Ex and it is working great! They replaced it even though I told them I got it on eBay. They also will give me the $100 rebate bringing it down to $320. I am happy. And now you are even getting better deals. I don't doubt that they will do us right when they change to MPEG4. I just hope it has DVR or TIVO functionality or a lot of people will move to Dish Network.

[Dssturbo1]

Had my install today, I had waited a couple of weeks to get a Saturday afternoon appointment. The installer was older, like me, and cool. I explained to him that I had no land line phone, and planned to initialize the box at my mother's house. He said that where ever I do it had to have a 3lnb dish to connect to. Is that correct? If so I'll go to my neighbor's house. Left me a dish I didn't need but was apparently entitled to. He connected another pair of cables from the dish to the house, and left me cable to complete the run.
go through your guided setup and then when it says to make the call in take it to yourmum's if that is best for you. The dish is not needed.
then take it back home and do the setup again and should be good to go. the guide data may take a little while to come in. without the phone line connected you will get a popup nag screen after a month just delete it. good luck with it.

[Hoffer]

Here's my question on this. I just ordered the receiver, dish and OTA antenna from DTV last night. The total after rebate is $599. This includes installation of dish and antenna. I thought this was an awesome deal because just the receiver is $499 at BB. So, I'm just paying $100 for the dish, antenna and installation.

How much of a discount is this $199 price for just the receiver? I'm thinking about calling and asking for a discount, but am wondering what I should ask for.

[MCOfozcin1]

Called the retention number, talked to a very pleasant gentleman who agreed immediately to the deal, and offered the $100 rebate without even being asked. It will be charged on my monthly bill, and I only have to wait 36 hours for install!!

Best part is.... I have a standing notation on my account that when I activate an HR10-250, I will receive a $300 bill credit. (Don't know if I will get this one, but still a great deal at $299).

If it all works out HR10-250 299.00
Shipping 14.95
Rebate -100.00
Bill Credit -300.00
________________
Total cost to me -67.21 (including sales tax)

If all works out, they will be paying me $67.21 to take one of these off their hands, and will install it for free!

Man, I LOVE this forum!!!!

Oh yeah, almost forgot, when he asked which credit card I would like to charge this too, I asked him if he could just put it on my bill, and he said "no problem, we'll add it to your next monthly bill".
Am I lucky or what?

Made the call yesterday to get the $300 bill credit applied to my account, went off without a hitch, everything is good when you treat the CSRs with respect. Directv just paid me $68 to take a HR10-250 off their hands AND installed it for free!!!
It does have a payoff for them though, I'm going to be a Directv subscriber for a VERY long time!!

Thanks to everyone in this forum, I couldn't have done it without you.

[newsposter]

Can you please elaborate? My install already got cancelled twice.

coming in the dark after promising 2x to be there at a certain time, is not cool in my book. Waste of my time off work and really upset.

[finaldiet]

I would call them back. You can get the receiver for $299-$100. Tell them what you see others paying. New customer , I would ask the price quoted above, free dish with free install. Forget the OTA antenna. Then check to see if your eligible for east coast HD waivers. If not, then you can get an OTA antenna. And also say good-bye to your "twinkies" this year.(Twins). :D :D :D

[Sir_winealot]

Yeah...if you still want/need the OTA antenna they'll charge you $50 for it. Plus, you should be able to get your HD programming covered/discounted for 6 mos, but you'll need to ask.

Make sure you call retention though....

[Hoffer]

Is there a specific number I can call to get retention??

[Sir_winealot]

(800) 600-8977

[sgnow1]

I have an old Sony Sat-T60 that I got years ago with Lifetime. If I were able to get this deal and switch to a HD-Tivo, would my lifetime be transferred to the HD Tivo? Or would I need to keep my old unit active as well (i.e. pay to have a second receiver added to subscription)

Thanks.

[newsposter]

lifetime is tied to account...a search will confirm this

[rickmccamy]

Dssturbo1, you were correct. Run through all the setup from my house, connected to the dish, to the point that the call is required, disconnect, and take it to my neighbor's. The screen prompts for the set up call are on the hard drive, so you do not need a sat signal for that part.
Unit up and running, now, do I buy a HDTV for the bedroom, or sell the RCA DTC 210?

[carstud]

Well I called this morning and ordered mine today also had them order 1 for my mom. Got each for 299.00 minus the 100 rebate. I will call back later today to see if I can get them to give me a little more discount on my services. Thanks for all that posted this info as it helped me get my hd-tivo. I just called and asked for it and they gave it to me, no threating to leave needed. Had very polite retention agent from Idaho.

[hearth]

Has anyone received a rebate form? How exactly do you go about claiming the rebate? I just realized that the retention person did not tell me how to claim the rabate!?!?

Thanks for any help...
Don

[kr8z1]

I talked to Heather in retention today (very nice girl, very helpful) and here is what she was willing to do for me. I have been a cust since 9/02 with only TC and HBO.

HR10-250 $299 - $100 rebate with 2yr contract
OTA antenna Free ($50 - $50 credit to bill)
HD Pak $5.99 6 months
HBO $2 for 6 months
SHO Free 6 months
Cinemax Free 3 months
Starz Free 3 months

They could have installed Tues for me (2 days from now) but I'm having them come out this Sat instead.

I was very nice and asked about the special on the HD TiVo and she told me about the $299 - $100 rebate (which she also said was available until 12/5/05 and that when Mpeg-4 is needed I'll either get a software update or a new unit free of charge). I had previously negotiated about a month ago when I was going to jump on the BB deal (which I decided to wait, glad I did) for these discounts: HD Pak for $5.99/6 months, HBO $2/6months, SHO free/3 months. I had also been offered $200 credit back then too, but she told me that was only available if I paid full price, which would end up more than the $299 deal.

I asked her about making SHO free for 6 months - no problem. I asked her about the OTA antenna and she said it was $50. After talking a bit about it, she offered to give me a $50 credit to make it free. I then asked her if there were any other package discounts available and she said she would check. She then came back with Cinemax free/3 months. I said "Great! I really wish that could be Starz." and she said let her check to see what she could do. She then came back with Starz free/3 months. I agreed to everything and she then told me there was a 2yr agreement. I told her I would rather a 1yr agreement, she put me on hold to check on that, then came back on and told me it had to be 2yrs.

Needless to say, I am very happy with both the offer and the way she dealt with me. In the past I've talked to reps who made it difficult to deal with, but this time I guess I dialed at the right time. :D

[kr8z1]

Has anyone received a rebate form? How exactly do you go about claiming the rebate? I just realized that the retention person did not tell me how to claim the rabate!?!?

Thanks for any help...
Don


I was told that I would receive the rebate form in the mail with a confirmation letter. I then would need to send that in with a copy of my bill.

[JimSpence]

Has anyone gotten this and been able to do their own install? I have everything in place and don't need an ignorant installer to do anything. I will admit, that the installer who did my HTL-HD did a very good job. But I had the unit up and activated before he came to run the cables. I also had the Ph III dish mounted where I wanted it.

I know, I should just call DirecTV :) I'm thinking I should wait for MPEG4, but I'm in DMA 154 and won't get HD locals for a loooong time. This price is right. :D

[newsposter]

Has anyone gotten this and been able to do their own install? I have everything in place and don't need an ignorant installer to do anything. I will admit, that the installer who did my HTL-HD did a very good job. But I had the unit up and activated before he came to run the cables. I also had the Ph III dish mounted where I wanted it.

I know, I should just call DirecTV :) I'm thinking I should wait for MPEG4, but I'm in DMA 154 and won't get HD locals for a loooong time. This price is right. :D

From everything I've read on here (and it's been a lot the past 2 weeks) you would have to let him come to your house and then at least sign. Or if he's insistant I'm sure he would be happy to just hook it up to your existing lines to prevent DOA problems. I know others have tried and dtv said it must be installed. We try to save them money and look what we get.

Now if you need help with any of the following, let me know:

1. splitting lines to run to either side of a room
2. choosing the right splitter with either powered legs or non powered
3. arranging 8pm installs and reschedules (as well as burning your salary from missed 1/2 day work needlessly)
4. trying to get a new line of sight through trees
5. doing the opposite of a rain dance hoping he comes before it rains (it started at 8pm that night he did show up)
6. choosing the right ota antenna
7. putting bandaids on your lip from biting so hard because you are so pissed you had to wait an additional week for your new install
8. being very angry yet controlled while bitching out dtv and trying to get more credit

any of those, let me know and I shall oblige :)

[sjberra]

Has anyone received a rebate form? How exactly do you go about claiming the rebate? I just realized that the retention person did not tell me how to claim the rabate!?!?

Thanks for any help...
Don

Mine showed up in the mail about 10 days after the installation. Now just waiting for my bill to send in for the rebate.

[rickmccamy]

Has anyone gotten this and been able to do their own install?
Basically, yes. They bring it out, but you tell them you'll handle it, and sign the paperwork. Nobody minds getting a couple hours of free time, especially on Saturday.
My installer was from a subcontracting firm, that had been bought out by a South Carolina firm, that was in the process of trying to bring SC wages to California. Yikes. A year ago he would get $65 per install. The South Carolina owners immediately dropped that to $45 per install, and then told all their installers they had to paint their trucks white. The Company would put up $300 towards the paint job. Well, around here a decent paint job on a large van will run $3000 to $5000. "If you don't want to paint your truck, you'll have to drive one of ours." Now because you are saving so much on wear and tear, we'll knock you back another $10 per install, to $35.
You know every so often the IRS goes into an industry and makes it clear who is a contractor and who is a employee. 'Bout time for some of that here.

[alexcue]

Jim, i needed the Dish put up so i let them handle it. He gave me the receiver box, and i had it connected and waiting for the new dish to be up. He had no problem at all with it, but wanted to check only that it connected with Dtv (phone line) and he loved my setup, At the moment, i have in the living room the HR10, R10 and DSR6000. (btw, the DSR6000 has no sat in at the moment, just waiting for wife to clear off her stuff and it will be retired to backup status)

[JimSpence]

Thanks for your insight, newsposter. I know you've had a few problems with your install.

Does you head feel better now, that you've stopped hitting it against the wall? :)

I'll probably wait until after a few tax bills are paid before I jump on the HDTiVo.
I'll just swap out the HTL-HD and the Dish 301 receiver to get the HDTiVo operational.

On top of my RPTV I have a DVD recorder, DVD player, T60, HTL-HD, Sony AV receiver, and a Dish 301 receiver. The TV is also fed a signal from a DSR6000 which is in the basement.

[newsposter]

Thanks for your insight, newsposter. I know you've had a few problems with your install.

Does you head feel better now, that you've stopped hitting it against the wall? :)

I'll probably wait until after a few tax bills are paid before I jump on the HDTiVo.
I'll just swap out the HTL-HD and the Dish 301 receiver to get the HDTiVo operational.

On top of my RPTV I have a DVD recorder, DVD player, T60, HTL-HD, Sony AV receiver, and a Dish 301 receiver. The TV is also fed a signal from a DSR6000 which is in the basement.

NO! Install cancel again today!!! Long story, if you are interested I can PM you, rather not say publicly. It's a nightmare. I wanted to save them some work and the local installers are having a fit about it. Totally unreasonable. Yes, even in writing they wouldn't do the time saving thing i wanted :(

My net cost would be under 100 if i bought everything retail (if i can find a local multiswitch for 60 bucks..but doubt it) and i'm darn temped to right now. they would give me 250 for self install.

I'm so stressed there's no pill or hot tub that could soothe me right now.

[tractorboy]

Ask and you shall receive. Thanks to this forum I also received the upgrade deal for an HD Tivo. I can't imagine any current subsriber not getting this, although I was out of contract. I first was alerted to it by a guy on ebay who is selling the INFORMATION on how to get this deal for $24.95. Seriously, check it out. Rather than buy his "information" I went to this forum, which has helped me in the past, and did a search. Voila, I got this thread and had the "information" for free! Yep, call customer retention, politely tell them that are considering a change in service, but wanted to check what Directv had going in terms of offers for current subscribers and you'll get the $299-$100 MIR. Ask for any deals on the programming and if you're TC Premier you'll get offered -$20/month for 6months. I didn't get the -$5/mo. for the HD package, but frankly I forgot to ask about it. She also offered to give me a $49 credit for a unit relocation install, but I'm just going to swap the existing box so I passed. New box is scheduled to arrive on 9/28.

I feel like going on ebay and undercutting the guy who's ripping everybody off. Maybe charge $0.25 and then point them to this forum. I can't believe folks would actually buy information from ebay before doing at least a google search first to find out if it is already out there.

[lman12]

I have two questions.
1) Will Directv allow you to do a self-install?

2) If not, will directv allow the HD TIVO receiver to be delivered to your billing address instead of your service address?

Thanks for the reply.

[newsposter]

I have two questions.
1) Will Directv allow you to do a self-install?

2) If not, will directv allow the HD TIVO receiver to be delivered to your billing address instead of your service address?

Thanks for the reply.

1. NO way. Don't even try. IF you are lucky, you can tell the installer at your house to leave. However mine won't do that.

2. there's another topic about this but i forget where. sorry

[jim tressler]

for those that have recieved the unit - does the hdmi port work?

[Ein]

for those that have recieved the unit - does the hdmi port work?

Yes.

[AbMagFab]

for those that have recieved the unit - does the hdmi port work?

Yes, perfectly. Since it seems many of the "HDMI" problems are TV related, and this is my second HD Tivo, it's not surprising.

Note how, if someone has an HDMI problem, they seem to have multiple HDMI problems. And the rest of us are fine.

This isn't to say there wasn't an initial hardware problem, but that really only applies to the small percentage of people that had real HDMI failures. The rest have older TV's, or just incompatibility issues.

[sda3]

Mine works great so far with my sony kp-51ws520

[tomlog]

Yes, perfectly. Since it seems many of the "HDMI" problems are TV related, and this is my second HD Tivo, it's not surprising.

Note how, if someone has an HDMI problem, they seem to have multiple HDMI problems. And the rest of us are fine.

This isn't to say there wasn't an initial hardware problem, but that really only applies to the small percentage of people that had real HDMI failures. The rest have older TV's, or just incompatibility issues.

Sorry but you are wrong. I have 2 HD Tivo's one I got 6 months ago and at first the HDMI port worked and then went out. This was across 3 HDTV's all HDCP compliant. The 2nd HD Tivo I got 1 week ago and the HDMI port works fine on my 32" LCD that the other HD Tivo's HDMI port does not work. I think the problem is the other way around that most of the HDMI problems reporrted here have been Tivo problems not TV problems I am sure there have been a few TV issues but most are HD Tivo issues.

[robertwhee]

I called Dtv last night and asked for this and they I told I haven't been a customer long enough. I had to be with DTV for 1 yr or more in order to gualify. Does this sound right?

[GDG76]

Tried to call in and get this deal today- CSR wouldn't budge and said it was $649 but he would attempt to do everything he could to get it down to $299. Hung up- truthfully I didn't want it that bad and would have done it for $99 but seems as though this might be a dead deal or I got a bad CSR.

May try back later but I don't need HD that bad to be arguing with CSRs.

[DVRaholic]

Tried to call in and get this deal today- CSR wouldn't budge and said it was $649 but he would attempt to do everything he could to get it down to $299. Hung up- truthfully I didn't want it that bad and would have done it for $99 but seems as though this might be a dead deal or I got a bad CSR.

May try back later but I don't need HD that bad to be arguing with CSRs.

Did you call the Customer Retention number ??
Calling a Regular CSR wont get you this deal
The Retention number is (800) 600-8977

[jim tressler]

Jumped on the deal today-

$299 - $100 mir
Free HD package for 6 months
$20 off total choice premiere for 6 months
Waived S/H fee
General $5 credit for 6 months
Free superfan (aka.. hd tax)

can't complain - install is this thursday afternoon - when the gentleman shows up I will take the reciever, tell him to have a seat, offer him a beer and have him on his way lickidy split!

jim

[SoonerSteve]

If I got the deal I am sure anyone can. I had service installed for the first time on a Friday, called back on Monday to retention and got the $299 deal. I did try once before on Sunday and was not offered the deal, but the second time was the charm. I had the HD Tivo installed exactly one week after the original install.

I did not push any programming credits since I am already getting TCP free after purchasing Sunday Ticket.

The installer was great and other than a bad placement on the OTA install I am very pleased. It may take a few calls, but the deals are there.

[GDG76]

I did call the retention number.

Tried again, finally found one that would do it for $299. I've been with Directv since early 2000 and the best they were going to give me was $299, $100 rebate. No other discounts at all. I told em to forget it. For 10.99/month with no discounts, it's not worth their HD service right now. I'll suffer through one more season of standard def football.

[Sir_winealot]

Best I could get was the $299 deal w free SHO for 6 months....I already have HBO so there's no extra cost for HBO/HD...and then $5.99/mo HD programming.

No S&H charge though.

[DarkShadows]

If I got the deal I am sure anyone can. I had service installed for the first time on a Friday, called back on Monday to retention and got the $299 deal. I did try once before on Sunday and was not offered the deal, but the second time was the charm. I had the HD Tivo installed exactly one week after the original install.

I will have my new HDTV delivered this weekend, the D* rep wouldn't budge off the $599.00 - $100.00 deal , no surprise there.

Just wondering what my chances would be of getting the deal you got on this one.

[newsposter]

I will have my new HDTV delivered this weekend, the D* rep wouldn't budge off the $599.00 - $100.00 deal , no surprise there.

Just wondering what my chances would be of getting the deal you got on this one.

I'd call and ask if they can do better. if they say no, just say hey, i heard a lot of others are getting them for 299, can you offer me that too? Dont be nasty. Dont need a bad note on your file. Try a day later if you are rejected.

worst they can say is no. Others have threatened to leave etc but that's not my MO.

[Tater]

Had mine installed yesterday... everything went well for the most part, except he would not relocate my SD Tive to upstairs, said a relocate was not on the ticket. Then I asked about the OTA he was installing and he said he could not guarantee anything, some people in my area have had them work, and some have not...and since he told me he was not allowed to leave his ladder (meaning go on the roof) it did not work...not one channel came in. Yep, wasted $50 and just went to Radio Shack (to drop another $100) and picked up the VU-190VX to replace the crappy one I got from DTV,,, the guy at Radio Shack said it would work in the attic no problem, anyone know anything about this antenna?
They better give me the new box when they switch to the MPEG-4 format...

[jamsys]

Jumped on the deal today-

$299 - $100 mir
Free HD package for 6 months
$20 off total choice premiere for 6 months
Waived S/H fee
General $5 credit for 6 months
Free superfan (aka.. hd tax)


Called the Cust Rention # listed above in the thread and got the 299-100 MIR..

I had to agree to stay for 2yrs and they WOULDNT do any discounts on programming.

There was no negotiating with the rep

Just a FYI

[Hilbe]

I am a new customer and just got the HD DVR yesterday at Best Buy. I have an open order and they're going to install it on Saturday. I called today with my account # and tried to get credit for $300, but they refused. I'm sort of stumped what I need to do... Any suggestions on what I should do? The guy said once I activate it, I won't be able to get a return at Best Buy. I really want to get the unit for $299...

[newsposter]

Had mine installed yesterday... everything went well for the most part, except he would not relocate my SD Tive to upstairs, said a relocate was not on the ticket. Then I asked about the OTA he was installing and he said he could not guarantee anything, some people in my area have had them work, and some have not...and since he told me he was not allowed to leave his ladder (meaning go on the roof) it did not work...not one channel came in. Yep, wasted $50 and just went to Radio Shack (to drop another $100) and picked up the VU-190VX to replace the crappy one I got from DTV,,, the guy at Radio Shack said it would work in the attic no problem, anyone know anything about this antenna?
They better give me the new box when they switch to the MPEG-4 format...

Moving a receiver is standard practice ...or so i thought. I'd call to complain if it's something you had discussed originally. If you hadn't, not sure what recourse you have.

[newsposter]

I am a new customer and just got the HD DVR yesterday at Best Buy. I have an open order and they're going to install it on Saturday. I called today with my account # and tried to get credit for $300, but they refused. I'm sort of stumped what I need to do... Any suggestions on what I should do? The guy said once I activate it, I won't be able to get a return at Best Buy. I really want to get the unit for $299...

quick suggestion and I truly have no idea the outcome.

Call DTV and ask, without saying you already bought, what they can do for you as a new customer with HD tivo. Then push for the 299 thing. Prob wont work but what do you have to lose?

This is, of course, assuming BB will take it back right now

[epeters]

anyone lucky enough to pick up two of these units at this price? I've got two HDVR2 units and want to replace both.

Eric

[Anubys]

anyone lucky enough to pick up two of these units at this price? I've got two HDVR2 units and want to replace both.

Eric

I got one for $199 and the CSR insisted that the $100 rebate is for 1 unit per household. He said I can have the second one for $299. I'm debating whether to get a third HDTV set (I already have one and will definitely get a second), so I have not pulled the trigger on the other HD-Tivo for $299...

[94SupraTT]

I was very nice and asked about the special on the HD TiVo and she told me about the $299 - $100 rebate (which she also said was available until 12/5/05 and that when Mpeg-4 is needed I'll either get a software update or a new unit free of charge).

Cool. Thanks for the info on how long this offer is good for. I am going to see if my wife will get me a HD-Tivo for Christmas. :D I really wish I had waited for this deal. I paid $100 for my SD Tivo last October and like 2 months later they were letting them go for $50! Heck, now you can get a SD Tivo for free. :( I'm almost tempted to sell my upgraded 160GB SD Tivo on ebay to offset the cost of a HD Tivo.

[buckeyenut]

I didn't read through this entire thread--so hopefully this isn't a repost. Has anyone else seen this guy (http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-DIRECTV-HD-Receiver-DVR-TiVo-HR10-250-199-COUPON_W0QQitemZ5612205495QQcategoryZ31411QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewIt em) selling the same info others have posted in this very thread on eBay for $25? Most buyers seem to be happy--so I guess I can't complain too much, but it still doesn't sit right with me.

I am seriously considering posting a penny auction with the info freely directing people to this thread....

[Anubys]

I didn't read through this entire thread--so hopefully this isn't a repost. Has anyone else seen this guy (http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-DIRECTV-HD-Receiver-DVR-TiVo-HR10-250-199-COUPON_W0QQitemZ5612205495QQcategoryZ31411QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewIt em) selling the same info others have posted in this very thread on eBay for $25? Most buyers seem to be happy--so I guess I can't complain too much, but it still doesn't sit right with me.

I am seriously considering posting a penny auction with the info freely directing people to this thread....

That's too funny! heck, why post it for a penny? $20 would be a good start to a price war ;)

[trickyech]

For those that have gotten in on the $299 deal, did the csr specify what kind of 2 year agreement they made you sign up for? The woman I just talked to said that I needed to be signed up to the HD package for the duration of the agreement, and wouldn't be able to cancel it anytime prior without breaking the agreement.

I'm currently on hold with her as she goes to talk to her supervisor about it. Oh wait she just came back. After talking with the supervisor, they made a note on my account that the committment was soft and that I could cancel the HD package whenever I wanted to.

tricky

[Anubys]

For those that have gotten in on the $299 deal, did the csr specify what kind of 2 year agreement they made you sign up for? The woman I just talked to said that I needed to be signed up to the HD package for the duration of the agreement, and wouldn't be able to cancel it anytime prior without breaking the agreement.

I'm currently on hold with her as she goes to talk to her supervisor about it. Oh wait she just came back. After talking with the supervisor, they made a note on my account that the committment was soft and that I could cancel the HD package whenever I wanted to.

tricky

what difference does it make? you bought an HDTV, you're buying an HD-Tivo...why would you NOT subscribe to the HD package? even with the meager offerings, it just makes no sense to go to all this expense just to tivo OTA HD...

[sjberra]

what difference does it make? you bought an HDTV, you're buying an HD-Tivo...why would you NOT subscribe to the HD package? even with the meager offerings, it just makes no sense to go to all this expense just to tivo OTA HD...

I do this because OTA shows more programming that I find relevant then the current run package from D*.

Of all the 5 channels(soon to be 6) offered in the stock HD package only 3 of then ae of use to me, ESPN and soon ESPN2 is totally useless to me, HDNet is semi-useless. The OTA channels make the HD unit useable since my set does not have the HD Tuner built in

[JWG]

I do this because OTA shows more programming that I find relevant then the current run package from D*.

Of all the 5 channels(soon to be 6) offered in the stock HD package only 3 of then ae of use to me, ESPN and soon ESPN2 is totally useless to me, HDNet is semi-useless. The OTA channels make the HD unit useable since my set does not have the HD Tuner built in

I'm with you. I do not subscrive to the HD package as $10.99 is a bit much for movies from 1992 and ESPN. ESPN2 in HD will be nice, but I don't watch it a lot except during football season. I'm in for the OTA HD and NFL Superfan.

I may have to subscribe to the HD package for a day to get my one Sunday night NFL game that I care about in HD...

To the guy/gal worried about returning an activated HD unit to Best Buy, I originally purchased the HD DVR in May and activated it. I then returned it a week later because of rumors of big price drops. I didn't have any problems.

[G-Funk]

Just got off the phone with a great retention rep. I explained that I was a longtime TIVO devotee, shortime D* convertee, and that I had just dropped some coin at BB to get a HD DVR. He told me that if BB would take the receiver back, that he would get me the 299-100 MIR deal, and regardless of what BB did, he was in the process of giving me the superfan package, $5 off for 6 month of the HD fee, $20 of the TCPremier package for 6 months. He also told me that if BB did not accept the return, he would post a $150 credit to my account.

For the first time calling with this offer in mind, i jumped all in and took it. Got to love forums like this where info is shared to all. I've only been on D* for 3 months, so to those of you that had CSR's tell you otherwise, get on the 800-600-8977 number.

I hope that guy on Ebay doen't get anymore business. I can't imagine taking advatage of people like that, especially now!!!!

[dwynne]

and regardless of what BB did, he was in the process of giving me the superfan package, $5 off for 6 month of the HD fee, $20 of the TCPremier package for 6 months.

That is pretty funny. I am a long time D* customer and long time NFLST customer. I told them last month I would not pay extra for the "superfan" (to get the games in HD) and that they could either give it to me or kiss my NFLST subscription good bye. After a couple of calls none of the retention reps cared about keeping my NFLST business so I just cancelled ST. They would rather lose the $180-200 a year than give up the $50 (was $99) for the superfan - for a long-time customer, but for someone else (that has been with them for 3 months) they give the superfan away for free?

Go figure - it is really "rep roulette" when you call, I guess.....

Dennis

[Wilhite]

what difference does it make? you bought an HDTV, you're buying an HD-Tivo...why would you NOT subscribe to the HD package? even with the meager offerings, it just makes no sense to go to all this expense just to tivo OTA HD...

Au contraire mon frere...

The OTA HD is about the only reason that I have the HD Tivo right now. I love the fact that I can record in HD and watch later and pause the HD program to tend to the kids, go to the bathroom, etc. (all the reasons you love Tivo).

The other HD channels available right now? Eh, I can take them or leave them. ESPN in HD will be nice for the next 4 months but I can do without it after that. I'll probably keep the HD package for 6 months (I got $5 off the first 6 months) and then cancel after that.

[dengland]

I have had 2 CSRs tell me that there is no physical way for them to add Superfan without charging the $49. The last one told me that the NFL set the price for both NFL ticket and Superfan!

I have been with D* w/ NFL ticket for 3 years now (HBO on and off). Anybody get the SF thrown in that has been with them a comparable amount of time?

[Sir_winealot]

Yeah, I'm w you....pretty meager HD offerings for $10.95 IMO. $5.95/mo is somehwat more reasonable, but unless they add another half dozen channels I too will be cancelling @ the 6 month mark.

The other HD channels available right now? Eh, I can take them or leave them. ESPN in HD will be nice for the next 4 months but I can do without it after that. I'll probably keep the HD package for 6 months (I got $5 off the first 6 months) and then cancel after that.

[kg2000]

As an active customer, out of contract, I called DIrectv to inquire about the regular Tivo, plus retention programs etc.

I just happen to ask for the price of HD Tivo, which I was told 299.99 + tax + 14.95 handling - 100 rebate. I jumped at the deal right away because I knew the prices at BB and CC were $599- $100 rebate.

I did have to agree to a two year contract. BTW, there is a provision that you can opt out of the contract early by returning the equipment to DirecTv. Directv will send you a box to for return. Good to know there is an option.

They did NOT want to give me any breaks on any programming - which would be nice but no bug deal. I am told that this is based on the level of programming i have.

Don't know what they want from you....paying about 50 for monthly service + HBO + HD package + and two additional TV is not enough I guess...

[kr8z1]

I have had 2 CSRs tell me that there is no physical way for them to add Superfan without charging the $49. The last one told me that the NFL set the price for both NFL ticket and Superfan!

I have been with D* w/ NFL ticket for 3 years now (HBO on and off). Anybody get the SF thrown in that has been with them a comparable amount of time?

Many people have gotten this deal with accts only months old. Ask them to bill you for it and give you a $49 credit to your acct.

[gtnuke]

I also just got this deal today.

$299
-$100 rebate
-$72 (free HBO for 6 months)

=$127 HD-TiVo

Not as good as some people, but I'm happy. Even if I had to commit for 2 years.

Anyone know what the going rate is for a Samsung SIR-TS160? I guess I'll put it up on ebay.

[dengland]

Many people have gotten this deal with accts only months old. Ask them to bill you for it and give you a $49 credit to your acct.

I did not try that last week (CSR=Justin). Today the CSR (CSR=Josh) said no to a $49 credit. He said the $5 off HD and $5 off TC+ was the best they could do. I'll try again with CSR 3 in a couple of days.

[Fezmid]

I just got the $299-$100 offer, as well as Superfan thrown in for free (been a customer for 7 years or so). Wasn't able to get HD thrown in, but that's ok. ;)

Now I just need to finish my basement.... Almost there! :)

CW

[duffin]

Here is why the price drop is happening. XTV is the impending replacement.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=578132

[jim tressler]

question is when - and how buggy will it be... sounds like some cool ideas though!

[duffin]

question is when - and how buggy will it be... sounds like some cool ideas though!

It is being deployed world-wide right now in many countries. That should give it a good head-start for the US market.

[LATivoUser]

Called the retention department today (waited on hold for 10 minutes, which is ironic if you think about which department your calling. Talked to Bernice.

She she could offer the $299 -$100 rebate deal. + $50 for the over the air antenna + Free install.

When I asked about the HBO/Showtime credit or the HD credit, she said NO.

I explained that I have been a D* customer since the begining, and she proceeded to give me a lecture about how the HD Tivo was worth over $1,000 and I should be very happy to get the deal she was offering.

I told her, that I've read about other customers getting the few extra perks. She said, unless it was on the D* web site, she didn't care - the offer was final.

I told her that since that's all she was willing to do, I would rather not take the offer at this time.

Will call back later and see what happens with another rep.

[ShiningBengal]

For anyone who might want one or two, I've got 2 80 hour boxes w/lifetime that might be going up for sale soon. Email me for details.

If these are integrated DirecTiVo boxes, these no longer have lifetime TiVo subscriptions attached to them, even if you bought them that way. The lifetime subscription belongs to the individual who originally activated the box.

In other words, there is no benefit to buying your boxes over anyone else's at the same price. :(

OTOH, AFAIK, SA boxes do retain the lifetime sub! :)

[edoconno]

I called, got the $299 - $100 rebate
$5 off HD package for 6 months
$5 off Choice Plus for 6 months
$10 off HBO for 6 months
6 months free Showtime
Then called again and got
FREE NFL HD Package (I am an auto renew NFL Package subscriber) ($50)
FREE HD Antenna for local channels ($50)

[tdub4]

Ok I have a few questions - I am still ramping up on the HD stuff:

1) Assuming I call D* and was able to get the $299 deal, do I already need to have a HD tv? I am in the process of deciding on which tv to get but I also do not want to miss getting this deal. So - will the new there be any compatibility problems with this Tivo box and a standard television while I decide on the tv I want?

2) Does everyone already have the 3LNB dish, or is that part of the offer from D*?

3) Does a standard antenna work for the OTA HD channels or do I need a special antenna? I already have an antenna in my attic that I used before local channels came to D* a few years ago.

4) What is the deal with the installers that D* sends out? Is this an extra charge?

Thanks in advance.

[Dssturbo1]

Ok I have a few questions - I am still ramping up on the HD stuff:

1) Assuming I call D* and was able to get the $299 deal, do I already need to have a HD tv? I am in the process of deciding on which tv to get but I also do not want to miss getting this deal. So - will the new there be any compatibility problems with this Tivo box and a standard television while I decide on the tv I want?

2) Does everyone already have the 3LNB dish, or is that part of the offer from D*?

3) Does a standard antenna work for the OTA HD channels or do I need a special antenna? I already have an antenna in my attic that I used before local channels came to D* a few years ago.

4) What is the deal with the installers that D* sends out? Is this an extra charge?

Thanks in advance.
1>> the hr10-250 does have composite and svideo outs and should work well with any regular sd tv. a hdtv set is not required so you can have time to pick the one you want.

2>> If you do not have the phase 3 dish directv will include it free and install it as part of the installation.

3>> your standard uhf/vhf antenea should work fine. you do not need a "special" or "hdtv" antennea.

4>> dtv sends the hr10-250 out to a local installer and they come and install it in your system. all included with the hr10-250 price to existing dtv customers $299 - a $100 mail in rebate, so no extra charges. (there may be a small shipping fee like $15)

[G-Funk]

If these are integrated DirecTiVo boxes, these no longer have lifetime TiVo subscriptions attached to them, even if you bought them that way. The lifetime subscription belongs to the individual who originally activated the box.

In other words, there is no benefit to buying your boxes over anyone else's at the same price. :(

OTOH, AFAIK, SA boxes do retain the lifetime sub! :)


Both are stand alone units in case you were wondering... Gonna keep them for a week an then post on ebay probably. In other news, the superfan deal was charged to my account, and then the retention rep credited my account to offset.

[tellis100]

I just called cust. retention and they said they could get me this sweet deal:

$699 for the HD-Tivo
$100 MIR
$49 Installation

Maybe this is because I've been a customer since 1996 and a Tivo subscriber since 2002.

[wavemaster]

This is quite a story, but I must share.

This morning I had another tivo installed (ordered it yesterday!). The installer and I were talking about the HD-Tivo and how the price just dropped. He informed me about the new bird they're flying next month and the major local markets being added.

I said well when they drop it to 300 I'm in.

An hour after the installer left he calls me back and says, hey my customer here that I'm installing a HD-Tivo for wants to talk to you - The guy gets on the phone he lives about a mile away. He asks if I have heard of the TCF and I say sure, I've been a lurker there for years. "He goes on to say check out this thread, I got mine for $299.00/100 rebate.

I thank him and mentio how the DTV/Tivo crowd ROCKS! He agrees and says enjoy.

This is where it gets interesting - I call customer retention and go on to say how Adelphia is offereing all this stuff free bla bla bla - I WANT MY HD.

She says we have a special deal, 299/100 rebate, I say great, sign me up.

After 4 minutes on hold she comes back on and says, the system won't let me place the order beacuase you got a TIVO rebate this morning on a new TIVO that was just installed. I hemmed and hawed and said, come on figure something out. She puts me back on hold and 5 minutes later a guy (her supervisor) answers and says "the system can't do the order, but after reviewing your account, I think you really need this." (I have 4 tivos 2 standard all premium packages and SundayTicket) I agree totally.

He goes on to say, do you have a reciever we can replace? I say sure, one of the standards can be replaced. He does up the order as a "special replacement" not sure what that means.

At any rate he says you have a two year comit, and have the new HD package 10.?/mo. - He scheduled the installation for tomorrow morning! and says your new HD-TIVO will be in his hands with a new dish a mega splitter and oh BTW, you can't have the rebate with this, but the good news is it's all free. FREE. The unit and installation! He said it was the only way he could put the order in at under $300.

I'm about as happy right now as I have been in years! And I'm a happy guy to begin with.

Now that's customer retention. Sorry for the rant, but I just had to share.

[Anubys]

Now that's customer retention. Sorry for the rant, but I just had to share.

er...I think you need to look-up the definition of "rant" ;)

[alexcue]

wavemaster, from what I've read, you're one of the customer's that trully deserves that deal, with your monthly outlay!

[tellis100]

Well, second time's a charm. Just got the 299 deal and 100 MIR. Added the $50 OTA antenna and free install. Thanks to everyone here, saved me a lot. Now time to get a HDTV to go with the HD-Tivo.

[wavemaster]

Thanks guys.

Yeah, the wife thinks we pay enough now - lol. I don't really care, I work at home and I like to know I can watch whatever channel I want.

I got a nice HD widescreen last year and was just being a cheap yankee in regards to the programming (aside from DVD), I couldn't see having a reciever that couldn't record, and couldn't see throwing 1,000 on a device I figure will last 2-3 yrs tops. So I've been waiting. I almost jumped at the 500 point a couple of weeks ago and, well, it's just funny how things work out sometimes. Needless to say, I'm glad I waited.

I am so stoked for NFL and it starts tonight, I am spoiled - what a day.

[newsposter]

I just called cust. retention and they said they could get me this sweet deal:

$699 for the HD-Tivo
$100 MIR
$49 Installation

Maybe this is because I've been a customer since 1996 and a Tivo subscriber since 2002.

hope you meant 299 and not 699. Everyone else is getting them for 299 from dtv.

[reubenray]

Is this deal going? I was about to jump when Katrina hit. Now it could be at least a month before I can get anything.

[kr8z1]

I was told by CSR it would be good until at least 12/5/05

[tellis100]

hope you meant 299 and not 699. Everyone else is getting them for 299 from dtv.

Nope the first call to cust. retention quoted me $699 for the HD-tivo :mad: . Second call was $299, free install, $50 OTA antenna and $100 MIR . :)

[Anubys]

I got one for $299 plus $100 rebate...the CSR promised me he can give me a second one for $299 (no rebate)...I decided to do it, but the CSR I talked to now won't give it to me for less than $429 :mad:

[epeters]

i'm probably going to get one of these this weekend. I think I'm just going to pretend that it doesn't have HMDI and use component cables based on what I'm reading in other threads about the HDMI problem.

EDP

[jcthomas]

epeters: FWIW I have three of the HD TiVo's, all connected via HDMI and all working perfectly. When you receive your yet to be ordered HD TiVo, try both connection and see which you like the best, and be sure to calibrate each connection using the HD Net broadcast test signal. This will increase your PQ greatly.

[deepthinker]

i'm probably going to get one of these this weekend. I think I'm just going to pretend that it doesn't have HMDI and use component cables based on what I'm reading in other threads about the HDMI problem.

EDP

Look at the sticker on the back left of the box that you get. If It does not have a build date anywhere on the sticker then you will be getting one of the newer units with a different connector on the HDMI card and more than likely will never have a problem with the HDMI. They obviously made a change to the connector/card because of all the failures. See my post about HDMI and New Observations.

[justdefend]

Deal is still on!

For some reason couldn't muster the $299 - 100 MIR but:

$349.99 - $100 MIR
$2.00 HBO and Showtime for 6 months (-$108)
$5 off HD package for 6 months (-$30)
+ 24.99 shipping / handling

Net cost: $136.98

[hokiesvt]

I just bought a new HDTV and am trying to move from cable to DirectTV because I prefer the HD programming lineup on satellite. Have any new D* customers had any luck getting a price break on the Tivo HD DVR? I've talked to multiple CSR's and have had no luck getting them to budge from the $499 price - $100 MIR. My cable company will lease me a HD DVR for $10/month. I LOVE Tivo and can't stand the thought of using an inferior DVR, but for that difference in price I don't know if I can justify it.

If I go with cable, are they any Tivo DVRs I can use to record HD programming?

[newsposter]

Is this deal going? I was about to jump when Katrina hit. Now it could be at least a month before I can get anything.

Well they are so slow..I'd buy it now, lock in your low price and just schedule install a month from now. I'ts how long it takes to get it sometimes anyways.

[jes218]

I'm in the same position.

My CSR said that you need to be a "current" customer. Then he "suggested" that I sign up for their free install, etc, and after I'm up and running, just call back for the upgrade as a current customer.

He assured me that there was no minimum time you had to be a customer to qualify for the 299 -100 deal.

Hope it works...

[hokiesvt]

I have a friend who has been a D* subscriber for 2 years. He does not have an HD-compatible TV, and is offering to call D* and see if he can get the HD Tivo for $299 deal, then I could buy it off of him. Are there any complications that I'm not thinking of that would prevent this from working?

[Tater]

I have a friend who has been a D* subscriber for 2 years. He does not have an HD-compatible TV, and is offering to call D* and see if he can get the HD Tivo for $299 deal, then I could buy it off of him. Are there any complications that I'm not thinking of that would prevent this from working?
They will only install to his address as far as I know, you will probably have more issues then that though...

Also for anyone getting this offer make sure you get the subsription deals noted in your account and get a badge number. Once I got everything installed I had to call back and talk to a CSR to get the HBO, Showtime and HD packade deal again. They said nothing was noted in my account, but they looked up my info and said we can do that... it actually worked out a little better, instead of getting Showtime for $2 a month for 6 months I got it free... "Where's my two dollars, I wnat my two dollars!!!"

[hokiesvt]

The will only install to his address as far as I know, you will probably have more issues then that though...

How difficult would it be for me to install it myself? Isn't this what people do when they buy the DVR from Best Buy or another retailer?

[Runch Machine]

How difficult would it be for me to install it myself? Isn't this what people do when they buy the DVR from Best Buy or another retailer?


If you are handy, installing a dish is easy. I've done several. The first one was the hardest though. I didn't realize that I was aiming the dish at a signal that is only about a quarter of an inch across. If you don't hit it you get nothing. It's not like aiming a TV antenna where if you get within a couple of feet you get a signal. With a dish, you have to be almost right on.

[Anubys]

I have a friend who has been a D* subscriber for 2 years. He does not have an HD-compatible TV, and is offering to call D* and see if he can get the HD Tivo for $299 deal, then I could buy it off of him. Are there any complications that I'm not thinking of that would prevent this from working?

yes. the deal comes with a commitment of 2 additional years and is contingent on him activating the unit...It's a risk that D* will let things go as someone else activate it...

[Goeers]

My installer is scheduled to come out tomorrow morning for my HD Tivo and OTA antenna. Only bad part, I still haven't received my Samsung HD TV yet. I probably will not get the Samsung for another 10 days or so.

Am I going to have a problem with this install since I don't have an HD TV for the installer to 'use'?

I don't want to have to reschedule as they've told me the next available install date is more than 4 weeks out. :rolleyes:

[Hootydog]

Existing customer here.
Just hung up
$299
$14.95 install
$100 MIR
$5 discount on service for 6 mo's
HBO and Showtime for $2/mo for next 6 Mo's

:D

[robertwhee]

Well after 2 more calls I finally got mine approved. HD DVR 299.00 with 100 mail in rebate... The hold was I got a free tivo box 3 months ago and they said I wasn't allowed another deal like that but since I mentioned this post they would honor it. Direct TV has great customer service....

[newsposter]

My installer is scheduled to come out tomorrow morning for my HD Tivo and OTA antenna. Only bad part, I still haven't received my Samsung HD TV yet. I probably will not get the Samsung for another 10 days or so.

Am I going to have a problem with this install since I don't have an HD TV for the installer to 'use'?

I don't want to have to reschedule as they've told me the next available install date is more than 4 weeks out. :rolleyes:

No issue at all. Just use your S video and make sure you have a signal on all 3 birds before he leaves. What tv you have means nothing to them. It's just a picture box

[Goeers]

No issue at all. Just use your S video and make sure you have a signal on all 3 birds before he leaves. What tv you have means nothing to them. It's just a picture box

Cool... thanks for the info. I wasn't sure if the OTA install was going to require an HDTV or not... I've never seen the setup menu on the HD Tivo before, so I assume there is 'something' in there to show OTA signal strength along with the Sats, correct?

Thanks again!

[newsposter]

Cool... thanks for the info. I wasn't sure if the OTA install was going to require an HDTV or not... I've never seen the setup menu on the HD Tivo before, so I assume there is 'something' in there to show OTA signal strength along with the Sats, correct?

Thanks again!

Yes this is my 1st day with box so I played. When you setup you can choose sat/ant or just sat. And if you want, you can have the tivo scan for OTA channels. Even if you get zip signal, it will load the guide data so you can see what channels you would get. I didn't put up an antenna yet. I was amazed that the channels also have sub channels, even if some was junk.

[Anubys]

Cool... thanks for the info. I wasn't sure if the OTA install was going to require an HDTV or not... I've never seen the setup menu on the HD Tivo before, so I assume there is 'something' in there to show OTA signal strength along with the Sats, correct?

Thanks again!

yes, he will be able to check OTA, and even pick up the HD OTA feed, he just won't be able to show it on your TV in HD...he can set the output to 480i which will downconvert the HD OTA to something your current TV can handle...so you will know that you are getting the OTA HD and you will know that you are getting the D* HD channels...

the ONLY problem you're facing is you won't know if the HDMI port is working on your HD-Tivo since you won't be able to test that until you get your TV...

[Goeers]

Thanks for all the info... puts my mind a bit at ease.

Here's a question I have... How long is the HDMI cable the comes with the HD Tivo?

[Anubys]

Thanks for all the info... puts my mind a bit at ease.

Here's a question I have... How long is the HDMI cable the comes with the HD Tivo?

off the top of my head, I think 6 feet...I don't remember it being as short as 3, so 6 sounds like the right size...

[newsposter]

off the top of my head, I think 6 feet...I don't remember it being as short as 3, so 6 sounds like the right size...

In my unopened bag it appears 6 looks good. No way it's just 3. No need to open it yet. Gotta hope santaclaus is good to me some year.

[MickP]

I got my second HD unit yesterday for $299 plus $120 credit, plus off air antenna installation for free. Tech comes tomorrow to install it all. Hopefully the off air antenna works better than my basic antenna which doesn't work worth a damn since I moved to Reno.

Unfortunately I just bought my first unit acouple of months ago for $499 and some credits, but such is life.

Anyway thanks again to this thread for getting me the deal.

[theratpatrol]

So how come BB and CC can't sell this thing for $299.00? I'd buy it there for 299 even without the 100 MIR.

[edrock200]

Sweet deal, thanks OP. Anyone gotten 2 outta this deal? I'm building a theatre in the basement and wouldn't mind grabbing another to have it ready. If you have please post your experience and/or PM if you have time. TIA.

[NYC-PA]

Hello All....

Well I've been watching these forums for a bit, & started reading how allot of you we're getting the HD/DVR deal. Well that’s what I need, I'm still using the 1st tivo that came out... lol I need an upgrade, & especial for 1 of my HDTV’s. So I called a few days ago trying to get some info, & asked about the HD/DVR for 299.99 -100.
Said never heard of it... ok so I'll call tomorrow, Called, talked to a dude, he said he's heard people talking about it, he said give me a minute & he'll go find out. Well he came back with a No-Deal, (599.99 -100.00) I said well thank you for your help. Called back a few hours later got someone else went through the whole deal, said let me find out, said 'We Never had nothing like that' are you sure it wasn't Dish or some other company.
Well my Question is am I calling the right #
Do I already have to be a direct TV USER?
What is the secret?
I'm going to give it another try but damn how many times can I call with everyone saying NO!

[newsposter]

you called retention right? Number is in the thread i'm sure..just search

[Lancorp]

Man, I paid $699 with the promise of a $100 rebate, just 19 days ago, from their website!!!

I've got to call and get my $400 credit!!!

Wish me luck!

UPDATE!!

Just called, and got lucky! I told them I heard about the $299 offer, and that I had just bought one from directv.com, and the woman said, "YES, there is such an offer"! So, after a few minutes with this nice woman, I wound up with a $350 discount on my bill, plus $100 rebate, plus 6 months free HBO.

I love this forum!

Thanks, everyone!

[Sir_winealot]

"How long is the HDMI cable? "

off the top of my head, I think 6 feet...I don't remember it being as short as 3, so 6 sounds like the right size...

If this was "off the top of your head..." wouldn't it be more like 12 feet?


:D

Sorry...couldn't resist....

[theratpatrol]

Man, I paid $699 with the promise of a $100 rebate, just 19 days ago, from their website!!!

I've got to call and get my $400 credit!!!

Wish me luck!

UPDATE!!

Just called, and got lucky! I told them I heard about the $299 offer, and that I had just bought one from directv.com, and the woman said, "YES, there is such an offer"! So, after a few minutes with this nice woman, I wound up with a $350 discount on my bill, plus $100 rebate, plus 6 months free HBO.

I love this forum!

Thanks, everyone!

I'm wondering if theres a way we can directly call the CSR's that you talk to by getting their names and extension numbers? :D

[newsposter]

I'm wondering if theres a way we can directly call the CSR's that you talk to by getting their names and extension numbers? :D

Even from the nice ones, I was told there's no way I would ever get them again.

[edrock200]

Whenever I call I find that the best way to go about it is talk as though you are speaking with a coworker...say hello, ask how there day is going, then tell them about this "crazy deal" your friend just told you about ask what other promotions they may be running.

I find that being nice and courteous up front with some simple conversation goes a long way. These people get calls all day from people demanding credits and free services, its probably a welcome change to get a nice customer every now and again.

[wavemaster]

Always try to be nice, sincere, and impart loyalty.

My experience is....

This is customer RETENTION you're calling - remember that.

When I called it went like this,

Hello, I was given this number by the DTV rep on the normal 800#
Adelphia (our cable provider) is offering to replace my DTV setup free of charge and are offering a HD-DVR in the deal, I want my hdtv.......... Well sir, there's no reason to leave DTV hold on a minute and I'll see what I can do.

I had mine installed yesterday free of charge. (read previous thread on p.23)

[Lancorp]

I forgot to mention the woman I spoke with, who immediately confirmed the special deal and was very helpful in accomodating my credit, also mentioned that in the future, when I wanted to upgrade or purchase hardware, to always call first, to take advantage of any special deals that are going around!

I suppose, had I pushed hard enough, I could have gotten it for free, she was so accomodating!

[jimsim]

Thanks to all of you for your suggestions and making me aware of this. The deal I got is unbelievable. Guess it is based on length of service, $299 less a $200 credit plus a $100 rebate = $0. In addition free HD package for 6 months and I pay $14.95 handling. Basically they are paying me to upgrade.

[danderson]

I called the number listed above and was able to get the $299 - $100 rebate deal. Like other people I was first offered 599 -100. All I had to do was ask about the $299 price and there was no pause, they said ok. Thanks to everyone.

[ken_kimg]

Anybody tried getting a deal like this on a SECOND HR10-250 (in addition to one they already owned)?

UPDATE: Never mind. After looking at some back posts, looks like some are...will try my luck also

[Anubys]

Anybody tried getting a deal like this on a SECOND HR10-250 (in addition to one they already owned)?

Yes...I think I posted it above...the CSR told me $299 with no rebate for a second one...he said the rebate was one per customer per year...I told him I would think about it...a week later (yesterday), I called to take the second one for $299, but the CSR I got said "no way"...the best he could offer me was enough credits to make it cost $429...I said no thanks...

all CSRs I talked to were in the retention...

[Guindalf]

OK, here's what I got....

I spoke to three different reps over the last week and was offered the 299-100 deal, 3 months free HD and nothing else at first. My second call this morning got me the deal, no discount on HD but 6 months free Showtime so I refused.

I called again this evening and got 299-100, $5 off HD for 6 months and two months of the Premier package for free (all movie and sports channels), I also got them to agree to relocate my existing DTiVo to the bedroom including multiswitch as part of the install.

I was totally honest with the rep. I didn't threaten to leave or anything else, but told him of the deals others were getting. He confirmed that the deal was not offered to everyone unless asked and he had, in fact, just signed someone up at the website price ($549-100). He said that the offers depended on the account standing and level of service and that they were now very aware of the forum postings, which is affecting what they are prepared to do for you. Also, if you try to 'bully' them into getting something, you'll probably end up with less than if you're nice to them!

Happy hunting and remember, if at forst you don't succeed, hang up and try another rep!!!!

[jaymanracerx]

Sounds Like I'm in the same boat at PA. Need advice. I'm going to HD from 2 stand alone box with lifetime. Sounds like I want Direct TV with HD, but should I be concerned they won;t support my Tivo box. How much will this cost me? less than Comcast/Maryland? Any other advice, thanks, sorry if this has been covered 100x.

Jayman :)

[newsposter]

Sounds Like I'm in the same boat at PA. Need advice. I'm going to HD from 2 stand alone box with lifetime. Sounds like I want Direct TV with HD, but should I be concerned they won;t support my Tivo box. How much will this cost me? less than Comcast/Maryland? Any other advice, thanks, sorry if this has been covered 100x.

Jayman :)

Your regular boxes will work as they always did. You just need the right multiswitch to feed all your boxes (2 per working tivo). The HD will see the extra 2 satellites, assuming your line of sight is clear, and the regular tivos will just see 101 like they always have. If you want your other boxes moved, you must make sure the dtv rep says that on your work order.

Ok now that I've typed all that, I realize I may have misunderstood you. Do you have cable now with standalone box? (see thats how much I know about cable and standalone boxes!). if so, then I am 99.9 % sure that the cable tivo box lifetime won't transfer over to your DTV box. Someone else can confirm this or you can call dtv directly. And sorry if the 1st paragraph doesn't apply to you, I read it the first time that you had to regular boxes and assumed dtv incorrectly.

[SteveGardiner]

I called retention today and it was probably the smoothest, most helpful call I've ever had with DirecTV. I asked for the HD-Tivo without specifiying price. He offered it at $299 plus $100 rebate. Included a new dish, multiswitch and cabling. Discounted Hi-Def package to $5.99 for six months. And installation was available in just two days! I pushed it out to next week when my TV arrives. Now here's hoping I don't have any HDMI issues.

[jim tressler]

no hdmi issues yet on mine - no manufacture date - and running for 3 days although - the picture via the hdmi cable seems darker than the hughes htl-hd

[austinsho]

That's exactly how mine went. It seems like feast or famine with DirecTV these days.

Is EVERYONE who gets turned down SURE they've called RETENTION, and not the normal CSRs?

[blackjackz]

Mine is getting installed Thursday

Free install, moving old Tivo upstairs. $299 - $100.

$5 discount on HD for 6 months

Free Showtime for 6 months

$2 HBO for 6 months

Free SuperFan, and Sunday Ticket at $199

[toneman]

Yes...I think I posted it above...the CSR told me $299 with no rebate for a second one...he said the rebate was one per customer per year...I told him I would think about it...a week later (yesterday), I called to take the second one for $299, but the CSR I got said "no way"...the best he could offer me was enough credits to make it cost $429...I said no thanks...

all CSRs I talked to were in the retention...
FWIW--I just got off the phone with retention (was complaining about how DTV install dept. botched my work order request); she intially was gonna give me an HD receiver for my bedroom for free (I already have an HR10 downstairs). I told her that I already have an HDVR2 in the bedroom and don't really want to deal with the hassle of switching between two receivers whenever I want to watch HD material, and that instead, a deal for another HR10 would be nice; she then offered to sell me another HR10 for $299 (no rebate, which I expected since I already have one for my existing HR10). Maybe I should have jumped on it...but then I'll have an HDVR2 w/ a 200 GB drive collecting dust (I don't wish to add a third receiver to my account at this time)...but in any case, my point was that it would appear that retention is willing to offer those customers who already have HR10 units another one at the $299/no rebate price. But then again, YMMV--I think she offered it to me because I told her I was ticked off about how DTV and the local installation contractor butchered my installation work order request...twice!

[tellis100]

So how come BB and CC can't sell this thing for $299.00? I'd buy it there for 299 even without the 100 MIR.

I would guess the deal for DTV is you're locked in for 2 years. :cool:

[Dick Kalagher]

I would guess the deal for DTV is you're locked in for 2 years. :cool:

I believe you are locked in no matter where you buy it. Happens when you activate it.

[wes000]

Dick you are correct. It makes no difference where you buy it. You will get hit w/ the 2 year agreement.

[dwynne]

Dick you are correct. It makes no difference where you buy it. You will get hit w/ the 2 year agreement.

Actually, the "fine print" of the $100 rebate coupon says to get the $100 back you agree to a 2yr commitment. So it COULD be that buying the HDTivo is just like activating one from any source - a 1 yr lock in, then getting the bonus $100 locks you in for a second year?

Dennis

[Anubys]

6:45 PM

still waiting for my 8 AM to 12 AM installation to happen... :mad:

took the whole day off to wait for a guy who never shows up (he keep calling and saying he'll be there in two hours)...

[dwynne]

Actually, the "fine print" of the $100 rebate coupon says to get the $100 back you agree to a 2yr commitment. So it COULD be that buying the HDTivo is just like activating one from any source - a 1 yr lock in, then getting the bonus $100 locks you in for a second year?


I was wrong (so says the D* CSR) - to get the new, lowe prices on the HDTivo or HD tuner it is a 2 yr commitment.

Dennis

[newsposter]

6:45 PM

still waiting for my 8 AM to 12 AM installation to happen... :mad:

took the whole day off to wait for a guy who never shows up (he keep calling and saying he'll be there in two hours)...

had same thing..he will be there at 8pm..i promise

oh and i got my rebate coupon quick...activated box on saturday..received coupon today

[BeanMeScot]

Am I missing something? I have a triple LNB with a multiswitch already on the house. Would I need installation? If so, what for?

[MikeekiM]

OK... A few questions I hope you can help me with...

1. What is the best legitimate deal you can get now for an HD TiVo...

By "legitimate", I mean not having to call retention and pretend that you are going to leave if you don't get a good deal?

2. Can I output to a regular SDTV?

Reason I want to do this is I plan on hooking up the high def outputs to the co-located HDTV (or future HDTV :D )... In the meantime, I want to take the RCA outputs and add it to my RF modulation distribution box and feed my other household TVs...

Can I do this?