Cable and satellite options for WOOD TV8

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - 24 Hour News 8 contacted four providers to get answers for some frequently asked questions about watching local TV stations.

Q) What is the least expensive, most basic offering you have, and how much does it cost?

AT&T: For $49 per month, we offer U-family or U100 with AT&T U-verse. Also, U-family includes an HD-ready DVR and U100 includes an HD receiver.

Dish Network: We recommend the Classic Bronze 100 package, which has more than 120 channels and is just $14.99/month with local channels for the first six months. After that, it’s $39.99.

Charter: Our main offer for customers for DTV is 9.99 Basic Cable for 12 months. This is a savings of $10 per month or $120 for the first year.

DIRECTV: The lowest package that we offer is the DIRECTV Family package for $29.99 per month, which offer 50 channels. However, the best value package, and the one most comparable to cable is the DIRECTV Choice Package - $34.99 per month for new customers. It includes more than 150 channels, local channels included at no extra charge, free HD or DVR receiver upgrade after instant online rebate, 50 music channels included, no equipment to buy or start-up costs.

Q) What is the wait time for install in the West Michigan area?

AT&T: We’re working with customers individually to schedule installation appointments as soon as we can.

Dish Network: We are asking customers to call in and ask about our same day and next day installs, which we’re doing as capacity
allows.

Charter: For those analog antenna viewers who have not prepared for the transition, they can call us at 1-888-GET CHARTER for a cable TV connection, in order to avoid any interruption in viewing local stations.

DIRECTV: It depends on the market and the level of demand in that market, but it can range from three to seven days, or earlier in some cases.

Q) How many calls have you got the past week or two about this type of service?

AT&T: We’ve appropriately staffed our call centers based on the amount of customer calls we’ve been getting over the past few weeks.

We’re definitely seeing interest from local consumers on our all-digital TV options. Any consumers interested in becoming a U-verse TV customer can call (800) ATT-2020 or visit a local retail store for additional U-verse information, to place an order or set up an installation appointment.

Dish Network: Unfortunately, we can’t quantify that. We’ve had an increase in calls, and suspect it’s related to the transition, but can’t confirm. Sorry about that!

Charter: (Did not provide answer).

DIRECTV: Still waiting for data on this.

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On the Net:

AT&T educational Web site