Satellite TV HDTV (high definition TV) opens up a whole new world of entertainment. When you watch satellite TV in high definition, the picture and sound are so realistic you feel like you're part of the action.

HDTV is a must have if you want the best picture and sound when you watch satellite TV, but which satellite TV provider has the best free HDTV receiver and the best deal on HD programming?

Let's find out ...


Free Satellite TV HDTV Receivers

When you order DISH Network service you'll get a free satellite TV system consisting of a satellite dish and a four-room satellite receiver system. You also have the option of getting a free HDTV receiver. Their HDTV receiver lets you watch satellite TV programs in high definition format, giving you the clearest most lifelike picture available. This receiver also has Dolby Digital Surround Sound so you get a three-dimensional listening experience.

DIRECTV'S HDTV receiver has the same features as DISH Network's HDTV receiver, but you'll have to send them a $99 mail-in rebate to get their receiver.


Pay-For Satellite TV HDTV Receivers

DISH Network and DIRECTV also offer a combination HDTV DVR (digital video recorder) receiver for $199. With this receiver you can watch HDTV broadcasts and digitally record up to 200 hours of your favorite shows. You can also pause the show your watching to answer the phone or get a snack, then resume watching when you're ready.


Satellite TV HDTV Programming

DISH Network offers 30 channels broadcast in high definition format that are bundled with their standard broadcast channels. Prices start at $29.99 per month for their Bronze package which includes 30 HD channels and 75 standard broadcast channels.

DISH Network HD channels include Animania HD, Discovery HD, ESPN HD, ESPN2 HD, Equator HD, Film Fest, Food Network HD, FU, Gallery HD, Gameplay, Guy TV HD, HD News, HDNet, HDNet Movies, HGTV, Majestic HD, Monsters HD, National Geographic, Rave HD, Rush HD, TNT in HD, Treasure HD, Ultra HD, Universal HD, and World Cinema.

DIRECTV offers an eight-channel HD Package that includes ESPN HD, ESPN2 HD, Discovery HD Theater, HD Pay-Per-view, HDNet, HDNet Movies, TNT HD, and Universal HD for $9.99 per month. In order to get these HD channels you must subscribe to one of their standard broadcast packages with prices starting at $41.99 per month.


Bottom Line

When it comes right down to it DISH Network and DIRECTV's HDTV receivers are so similar there's hardly any difference between them. Both receivers are state of the art and provide the highest quality picture and sound available.

When it comes to programming, however, DISH Network is the clear winner with 30 HD channels as opposed to DIRECTV's 8 HD channels.

Visit http://www.TheSatelliteTVGuide.com for DISH Network HDTV programming information. Click on the following link for ordering information plus the latest special offers from DISH Network satellite TV.

The author, Brian Stevens, is the senior editor for TheSatelliteTVGuide.com and has written extensively on free Satellite TV HDTV receivers and HD programming.

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