I was considering DirecTV but have questions about the new offer with HD?

Question

I currently have 1 HDTV and 2 old style Analog TVs. I'm not sure if with the current DirecTV offer for new customers, if they will provide all HD boxes with the free install. Also, if they do, will the HD boxes work with the older analog TV. Not sure if I want to spring for the $10 per month extra right now with only 1 HDTV. My concern, however, is that if I get the non-HD box now from them, that I will have to purchase new HD capable equipment later when I do have the money to upgrade all my older TVs next year.

Answer 1

I'd wait to rent the boxes until you need them.  You can always bargain then that they will loose your business completely if they don't provide what you want.

Answer 2

The installation is free to new customers.  There are discounts depending on the receivers you get, but they are not free - up to $300 for the HD DVR and a $5.99/mo fee for each receiver.  There is an added $10/mo HD access fee.  It may be cheaper to get the receivers you want now if you're only a year away from new tv's  so you can get the discounts and otherwise you'll have equipment you wont need (have to ship it back) and still need to get the other HD receivers.  You want to go with the HD installation anyway because the dish is not the same and different angle than standard.

The HD receivers are downward compatible with an analog set.