View Full Version : Voom Countdown
TheAntMan
03-19-2005, 01:57 PM
Well, in a couple of weeks we'll find out if Voom will be saved by Mr. Dolan, or if it will be shut down. What do any of you other Voomers think?
sonicrob
03-19-2005, 07:14 PM
I think Voom will be saved i love it so much that if Voom does die i will stick to my local Tv and renting DVD'S. :D
TheAntMan
03-19-2005, 09:03 PM
Sonic, I felt better after Dolan ousted three CVC board members and put three new ones who were sympathetic to him, but one of them, John Malone, is even showing skeptisicm about it. I will still have TWC in Houston, but not as much HD as Voom. How long have you had Voom? There seem not to be a lot of Voomers here..
sonicrob
03-20-2005, 07:10 PM
I had Voom for 2 Months and i know it does not seem good when Malone saying that he would not put his money to support Voom. Mr. Dolan has to pull some tricks to save it and i hope he does.
I was wondering if Voom does fail do they come and pick there rented receivers, it seems were though only 2 Voomers in these Foroum. :D
ericpd
03-21-2005, 01:48 AM
Well Sonic, at least you would have gotten to enjoy the service, if for only 2 months. I'm on the installation list. And get this, I'm sceduled for,... yes, Thursday, March 31. I guess the real test is whether the installer will show up at all. LOL!
If he does, then this Dolan guy everybody's talking about did the do right. If I'm left waiting. peering out from behind my livingroom window curtains like a young girl in fear she about to be stood-up, then that will also tell us the answer.
I'm hoping he shows.
sonicrob
03-21-2005, 03:36 AM
I hope he does show up tell us how it went and you are right at least i enjoyed Voom for 2 months. They are adding allot of channels so you should be happy with there lineup i like the Voom 21 Orginal channels, Voom PQ is awesome it is breathtaking.
Let us Bow are heads and pray and hope Voom continues because without Voom there is no other provider that has allot of HD channels. :D
Flashjeff
03-21-2005, 07:32 AM
I almost switched from Dish Network to VOOM but never got around to it. Now I'm glad to have been such a procrastinator. I don't think I could handle having that sword hanging over my head, not knowing if the service will still be around come next month. Good luck to all you VOOM subscribers!
TheAntMan
03-21-2005, 12:46 PM
You are right Flash. Just waiting for end of month. But it's not too bad. Eric I hope he does show up for you as well. Let us know hopw it goes... Until then Sonic and I will still be chillin with Voom. This month on Monsters HD (Silence of the Lambs, Pet Cemetary....)
ericpd
03-21-2005, 04:00 PM
I wonder if Voom will start some quality originals on their Monster, HaHa & GuyTV channels. Sure would like to see a Voom originals as well put together or as popular as say,... SG1 or BSG. But then again, space & aliens are getting a little long in the tooth for mef. But it would be nice if Voom's Monster could compete and give Sci-fi a run.
Think I'll call and see if I can get an earlier date. Oh BTW AntMan, we settled on a tv. Found a floor model Mitsubishi WS-65815 on sale for $1199.99. Couldn't pass that up. It ain't the more current DLP technology, but I saw the same model around Xmas for well over 2k. Plus it has that DVI connection you were telling me about earlier. What's HDMI though? Will Voom give you one-a-those cables too?
TheAntMan
03-21-2005, 05:26 PM
Great job on the TV man. Don't worry about it not being as up to date as newer models...alot of us have HDTVs a 6 mos- 1 year or so old, and the PQ is still amazing. Just set the TV to your preference and you will be pretty happy.
DVI (digital Video input) comes with the Voom setup. Check with your installer about connecting both Component and DVI and see which you like better.
HDMI (High Definition Mulitimedia Interface)- This is basically same as DVI, except with a DVI, you still have to connect audio cables. With HDMI, it is both Video & Audio, so you just need the one cable for picture and sound.
:hyper:
hd4me2
03-21-2005, 06:07 PM
I wonder if Voom will start some quality originals on their Monster, HaHa & GuyTV channels. Sure would like to see a Voom originals as well put together or as popular as say,... SG1 or BSG. But then again, space & aliens are getting a little long in the tooth for mef. But it would be nice if Voom's Monster could compete and give Sci-fi a run.
Think I'll call and see if I can get an earlier date. Oh BTW AntMan, we settled on a tv. Found a floor model Mitsubishi WS-65815 on sale for $1199.99. Couldn't pass that up. It ain't the more current DLP technology, but I saw the same model around Xmas for well over 2k. Plus it has that DVI connection you were telling me about earlier. What's HDMI though? Will Voom give you one-a-those cables too?
Saw your other posts about getting Voom versus going with D* HD and thought I'd add my two cents.
First thing is D* HD receivers won't be obsolete in a couple of months. You will only need a new receiver if you want to be able to view the new MPEG4 formatted HD locals. If you do they will exchange the new receiver for your old one free of charge. You can also buy a D* HD receiver for about $250 to $300 on your own, you don't have to buy from D*.
I read your post about being a big NFL fan so I wonder why D*'s NFL Sunday Ticket wouldn't be a big draw for you, 8 HD NFL games a week plus 4 or 5 SD games? Your other comment about Voom originals being made, this company doesn't know if it's going to be around tomorrow yet alone trying to produce its own shows.
To keep the record straight DVI is Digital "VISUAL" Interface not Video.
TheAntMan
03-21-2005, 06:21 PM
To keep the record straight DVI is Digital "VISUAL" Interface not Video.
okay....digital "visual" interface (sorry you felt you had to set the record straight). You sound like your upset he chose Voom...
TheAntMan
03-21-2005, 06:33 PM
http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/0%2C%2Csid9_gci805034%2C00.html
This definition of DVI is not right or wrong. I've seen both explain as "video" and as "visual". :)
ericpd
03-21-2005, 10:39 PM
Yeah AntMan, it does read as if he's a little upset, doesn't it. Well, my apologies if AntMan is correct and my decision has upset you in some way. But still, I appreciate your input. I mean that's why I came here,... to soak up as much input and insight as humanly possible before dropping dollars all over God's creation.
Only after reading a few posts about the possible need for new D* receivers and checking out a very informative link provided by one or two of those posts did I begin to consider the concept of "obsolete". I won't go to much into what I learned from this link, but one would think that if D* embarks on an upgrade path and their subs are unable to follow using their current gear, then associating their current gear with the word obsolete ain't a big stretch. And would I want to taste the fruit of the upgrade? Well,... yeah!!! I'm aware that I can buy a receiver outside of D*, but that really doesn't change things. I mean if a box I purchase today is unable to take a flash or a SW upgrade shot from one of their sats, then it really doesn't matter where I get the box from or who I hand over my money to just to get it in my rack. I will admit, the free exchange, when the time comes, makes tossing out the unusable, or 'obsolete' box in favor of a box that's capable of receiving all D* has to offer very sweet. What sours the moment a little is the restarting of the committment clock.
I'm one of the biggest football fans most would meet this side of the wide river. Still, I can digest only so much football on Any Given Sunday,... on one given screen. I'm familiar with Sunday Ticket. Had it when it first came out. Took advantage of D*'s promotion back then when it was almost free.
So AntMan, you approve of the HDTV deal I lucked up on. Still, I'm wondering how many hours are on the thing, or how long it's been on the floor. The salesperson assured me it wasn't a return and the full warranty is in play. I did pay the extra $129 for delivery and in-home calibration/setup. Good move?
And whether it's video or visual, I'm just liking that Voom is 'giving' me the cable. I understand a good one can cost anywhere between 40-50 bucks. An monster type brand maybe close to double that!
Thanks again guys
Dino54
03-21-2005, 10:40 PM
I placed my Voom order on 3/11 and chose 3/18 for installation, the installer arrived at 10AM Fri., hooked up/wired two STB's and was finished by 2PM. I couldn't be happier with it :hyper: PQ is AMAZING on my Toshiba 57H84.
Strange though that both of my STB's are HDMI instead of the newer DVI interface....which is what the Toshiba requires. I just assumed they hadn't updated to DVI yet but from seeing AntMan's post he has one :headscrat
I have a cable ordered but really.....I don't see how the PQ could get much better than it is with Components :drool11:
To hd4me2:
Why come to this forum and criticize something you've not experienced? Too much time to waste I'm thinking.
DN
TheAntMan
03-21-2005, 10:59 PM
Dino, great to hear you had a good install!! I think Eric will enjoy Voom as much as you, I, and Sonic do. I see it's your 3rd post so, welcome to the forum too, It's great here. :cheers: I agree to that the component cables make the PQ look great, but if you wanted to you could get an HDMI to DVI connector if you wanted to use that input on your tv.
I don't think HD was upset with anything, it came across that way a little, but I've seen many posts of his, and his input on things have been good ones. He just wanted to make sure eric had 2 points of view. That's cool.
Anyway let's see what happens with Voom over the next weeks or so, and we'll check in to see any news (Good news I hope).
TheAntMan
03-21-2005, 11:07 PM
What's HDMI though? Will Voom give you one-a-those cables too?
Sorry, Eric, I re-read the thread and noticed I never answered your question. Voom comes with component cables and DVI cables but no HDMI cables. They leave you the setup, so you will have both cables which is great in case you want to change cables at a later date or use the extra cable for something else...... :D
sonicrob
03-22-2005, 04:10 AM
My installer took my cables i was using one of the Component and he took the oter Component and 2 DVI cables a week later i got them back. I am happy about it because i might need them in the future when i upgrade my bedroom TV. :D
hd4me2
03-22-2005, 10:48 AM
I placed my Voom order on 3/11 and chose 3/18 for installation, the installer arrived at 10AM Fri., hooked up/wired two STB's and was finished by 2PM. I couldn't be happier with it :hyper: PQ is AMAZING on my Toshiba 57H84.
Strange though that both of my STB's are HDMI instead of the newer DVI interface....which is what the Toshiba requires. I just assumed they hadn't updated to DVI yet but from seeing AntMan's post he has one :headscrat
I have a cable ordered but really.....I don't see how the PQ could get much better than it is with Components :drool11:
To hd4me2:
Why come to this forum and criticize something you've not experienced? Too much time to waste I'm thinking.
DN
Re-read my post, I didn't criticize Voom at all. I was trying to point out that the current D* receiver didn't have to be thrown in the trash in a few months and point out to Eric the abundance of HD NFL games that where available; but as I found out he already knew that.
I hope he is happy with Voom once it's installed. I myself may keep a basic D* package and add Voom as my "real" HD source when things settle down a bit with Voom. Sorry if I sounded negative, it wasn't intended.
georgie
03-22-2005, 10:49 AM
It sure is hard to tell what's happening.
I got, like,12 new channels in the last 2 weeks !
kevinw
03-22-2005, 10:56 AM
Voom seems to be getting stronger with the addition of more channels. What could push them to the top would be the addition of local or national networks. Give me CBS,NBC,ABC,FOX et al and I would be on the band wagon too.
hd4me2
03-22-2005, 11:45 AM
Voom seems to be getting stronger with the addition of more channels. What could push them to the top would be the addition of local or national networks. Give me CBS,NBC,ABC,FOX et al and I would be on the band wagon too.
I agree, I think D* realizes this is what most people want right now and so that's why they have put their money/time into it. So many people don't want to hassle putting up an antenna and hoping they'll get their local networks.
ericpd
03-22-2005, 12:35 PM
Re-read my post, I didn't criticize Voom at all. I was trying to point out that the current D* receiver didn't have to be thrown in the trash in a few months and point out to Eric the abundance of HD NFL games that where available; but as I found out he already knew that.
I hope he is happy with Voom once it's installed. I myself may keep a basic D* package and add Voom as my "real" HD source when things settle down a bit with Voom. Sorry if I sounded negative, it wasn't intended.
No problem hd. I didn't really take it as an attack. But I have to say, the D* boxes will be usable ONLY if a sub has no interest in taking advantage of the upgrades D* is about the roll out. If a D* sub DOES intend to follow the upgrades, he will have to swap out the older less capable box for a newer more capable box.
I understand that Va Va VoOm will begin to deliver several regional affiliates, like ABC west, in addition to the movie channels. If this is true, I'll be able to view some 1 & 4 o'clock out of markets games. As long as I'm able to watch the Ravens pound heads and Jamal walk on people's chests this upcoming season I'm ok. Not really dissapointed if I miss a Redskin or Eagle game, as those teams are firmly and permanently in my 'hate' column.
I too am keeping both, at least for a month or so. Until I'm comfortably secure with knowing that VoOm will be here. My plan is to scale it back to it's bare $39.00 one room hybernation state. Once I'm reasonably certain VoOm will show up on my screen every morning, I'll probably pull the plug on D*. Assuming I'm still happy with VoOm.
hd4me2
03-22-2005, 12:45 PM
No problem hd. I didn't really take it as an attack. But I have to say, the D* boxes will be usable ONLY if a sub has no interest in taking advantage of the upgrades D* is about the roll out. If a D* sub DOES intend to follow the upgrades, he will have to swap out the older less capable box for a newer more capable box.
I understand that Va Va VoOm delivers several regional affiliates, like ABC west. If this is true, I'll be able to view 1:00 & 4:00 o'clock out of markets games. As long as I'm able to watch the Ravens pound heads and Jamal walk on people's chest this upcoming season I'm ok. Not really dissapointed if I miss a Redskin or Eagle game, as those teams are firmly and permanently in my 'hate' column.
I too am keeping both, at least for a month or so. Until I'm comfortably secure with knowing that VoOm will be here. My plan is to scale it back to it's bare $39.00 one room hybernation state. Once I'm reasonably certain VoOm will show up on my screen every morning, I'll probably pull the plug on D*. Assuming I'm still happy with VoOm.
I'm pretty sure Voom does not offer any of the network broadcasts, ABC, CBS, NBC,.... You will need to get the networks via your OTA antenna which shouldn't be a problem for you since you're only ~10 miles from the transmit towers.
I only hope we get to watch, in HD of course, the Ravens pound the Redskins at Raven stadium later this year.
TheAntMan
03-22-2005, 02:15 PM
It sure is hard to tell what's happening.
I got, like,12 new channels in the last 2 weeks !
:overclap: .. These are good channels too. BTW George, how's your boxes doing?? Not having to reset, I hope?
TheAntMan
03-22-2005, 02:41 PM
Sonic, Dino, Eric, George, other Voom subs,
with all the latest Voom activity, I just don't believe they will be shutting down. I just called and asked a Rep about the Voom situation and was told that Voom will not be shut down. They will no longer be associated with CVC, but will operate as an Independently as VoOm LLC. They even have the website up as www.voomllc.com which takes you to the original voom site. I thinks it's around to stay.
ericpd
03-22-2005, 03:47 PM
Yeah I noticed that a couple of days back. When I first started shopping alternatives to D*'s HD upgrade path, it was just plain voom.com. It's still voom.com in my bookmarks, I just checked.
Where you able to find any new or different info on the Rainbow 1 / EchoStar transaction? I'm still reading it wasn't an all out sale of major VoOm assets like was first being spread around.
Man, I'm lovin' this. I just can't wait for Thursday to get here. There's almost as much noise coming out of my head-hole as there is coming from you TRUE VoOmers, and I ain't got one single VoOm signal in my house yet. I'm still an embrio (sp). You know my anticipation level is bouncin' off the ceiling.
You know what I haven't asked you guys is this. What are VoOm's SD receivers like? Are they of good quality? I hope they're better than the standard D* receivers they give away for free! Those are just plain crap, especially the DirecTV branded ones. I have one of those in my bedroom and it's nowhere near the quality of the older RCA receiver in our basement location.
Dino54
03-22-2005, 10:47 PM
You know what I haven't asked you guys is this. What are VoOm's SD receivers like? Are they of good quality? I hope they're better than the standard D* receivers they give away for free! Those are just plain crap, especially the DirecTV branded ones. I have one of those in my bedroom and it's nowhere near the quality of the older RCA receiver in our basement location.
The Voom STB's are Motorola DSR550, I can't comment how they stackup against the competition as this is my first HDSTB.
Mini Rant:
I'm sure this has been discussed but there are a few features missing on the remote that disappoint me.....Previous Channel and Favorites up/down.
Clearing up:
In my previous post I mistakenly switched HDMI and DVI. The Voom STB does indeed have a DVI port while my Toshiba requires HDMI.....sorry for my confusion.
hd4me2:
I apologise for my trite remark, in all my noobness I failed to see all the information and helpful suggestions you've provided to this board in the past.
DN
TheAntMan
03-22-2005, 11:53 PM
Dino..press the "back" button on the remote next to the arrows. That works as your "previous" button. I don't use favorites but I'll check on that as well.
I figured you switched the two in the post, but if you want to use that you can get a DVI/HDMI connector...you can get from www.hdtvsupply.com for $25 (good price)
Hope that helps :D
ericpd
03-23-2005, 12:29 AM
The Voom STB's are Motorola DSR550, I can't comment how they stackup against the competition as this is my first HDSTB.
DN
Yeah Dino, that's their HD receiver. I've checked up on that one and I've read some fairly nice comments about it. But in all my excitement over High Def, I failed to do any research on the other two boxes that will end up in the bedroom and the basement. They will be feeding my older SD TV's. I was just wondering if they were Cracker-Jack toys like the ones D* passes out.
Dino54
03-23-2005, 11:03 PM
Yeah Dino, that's their HD receiver. I've checked up on that one and I've read some fairly nice comments about it. But in all my excitement over High Def, I failed to do any research on the other two boxes that will end up in the bedroom and the basement. They will be feeding my older SD TV's. I was just wondering if they were Cracker-Jack toys like the ones D* passes out.
All of their STB's are HD, so you will get three identical DSR550's :)
DN
Dino54
03-23-2005, 11:11 PM
Dino..press the "back" button on the remote next to the arrows. That works as your "previous" button. I don't use favorites but I'll check on that as well.
I figured you switched the two in the post, but if you want to use that you can get a DVI/HDMI connector...you can get from www.hdtvsupply.com for $25 (good price)
Hope that helps :D
aargh....I was so use to using it to 'back' out of the menu's (forest->trees)
Thanks for the link, i'll get one heading this way.
DN
gqarmstrong
03-24-2005, 12:08 AM
whats up guys, i live in nyc and have time warner cable and i'm seriously considering getting voom for the hd content and dropping twc which is over priced and low on hd content. should i wait until the end of the month to see what is going to happen to voom?, because i would hate to cancel my cable only to have to re-sign with them if voom goes under!
any opinions on this?
ericpd
03-24-2005, 12:08 AM
All of their STB's are HD, so you will get three identical DSR550's :)
DN
Nooooo! You're kidding. You mean all three STB's will be HD boxes? If I'm reading you right, that means when and if I upgrade the other two TV's to HD, I'm all set. True HD plug-n-play so to speak. Now that's sweet. If my math is right, that would have cost me $1200 in hardware upgrades if I stayed with D*. And that's not counting the cost of 3 years of committment with them.
After you're 550 post I looked it up and downloaded the manual pdf file,... just the check it out. I ran across a motorola 580 model, but not a lot of info on that one. I'm assuming that's their new DVR model. I read that the DVR (580 maybe) was due out this monthl but I didn't see anything on it on the VoOm site beyond "coming soon".
TheAntMan
03-24-2005, 12:19 AM
eric,
yes my friend, all the stb's are HD boxes. They can be hooked up to regular TV's as well until you upgrade those TV's to HDTVS, but the STB's themselves are HD :)
TheAntMan
03-24-2005, 12:33 AM
whats up guys, i live in nyc and have time warner cable and i'm seriously considering getting voom for the hd content and dropping twc which is over priced and low on hd content. should i wait until the end of the month to see what is going to happen to voom?, because i would hate to cancel my cable only to have to re-sign with them if voom goes under!
any opinions on this?
What's up George. I was with TWC only up until Jan '05. I was paying 70/month for 12 HD channels.....then I looked at Voom. I was sold on it and it was cheaper than TWC. 34 HD channels for $57/month.
You obviously know the deal with Voom and we are waiting for end of month, but if you chose to try Voom, you don't hace to cancel TWC right away. If you get the install...you pay $1 and agree to 6 months. This comes with the dish, STB(s), and free OTA antanea. Then you get the VaVaVoom package free for 2 months. Don't cancel TWC yet, and if after 3/31 Voom stays, cancel TWC, if Voom goes dark....your contract is null and Void, you only will have paid the $1 install and then have a free OTA antanea. I have Voom and enjoy it, read other threads here and read what others have to say. Good luck on your choice...
ericpd
03-24-2005, 01:30 AM
I agree. It's a win-win for us subs acting now. Best case we get to enjoy VoOm programming until that big meteor arrives. Worst case we get an installed OTA HD antenea for $1.00. And if you're worried about all that junk up on your roof (which it will be if your screen goes dark), don't. What ever provider you get to fill the void will more than likely remove it as a part of their install. Especially if you tell them you want their dish in the same place the VoOm dish was.
My install is tomorrow and I've already prepared myself for as much as a three month overlap with D* & VoOm. But to be honest, if the screen does go dark, I really don't think I'll stay with D*. I've been looking at E*, and between their mix-n-match DVR or HD receiver offer and the Sirrus Radio package, I can't see myself staying with D* whatever happens.
Get up, get the credit card out, pick up the phone, call VoOm, and do it. You never know, the offer might not be there after 3/31. What ever you decide, good luck.
ericpd
03-24-2005, 07:19 PM
I was scheduled for a noon install today. Installer shows up around 2:30 p.m., with a call preceding his arrival by 30 minutes. I gotta say, I am VERY unhappy with the staller's approach to getting me voomin. A quick walk around the house, he announces that he wants to attach the dish to my deck. I told him I didn't want it there, that I wanted it in the same place the D* dish was,... on my roof. I asked him were he wanted to place the OTA, he said on the deck as well. It didn't take long to recognize that this guy just didn't want to get up in the air. Was it fear? Don't know. The way he kept looking at his watch, it was probably a time thing going on with him. He did say he didn't have a long enough ladder, and I'm familiar with the 40 foot threshold, but in my case, that's BS. I've had several D* installers and upgraders up there with no hints of problems or suggestion of a special installation requirement. I'm just one heartbeat away from tagging this guy "Lazy".
I was on the phone with VoOm before the guy could get make his way back up my dead-end street. V* wanted to re-schedule me for the 31st. Unacceptable. Then they told me to hold. Then a promises of a call-back. Call came 20 minutes later. The 31st turned into the 28th. I pushed again. Another hold. "Would a different installer tomorrow by OK?" Why yes!!!
I've heard some horror stories in here concerning installation, but never thought it would happen to me. I never really gave it much attention, just read the posts. I'm hoping it was just this one guy. Of the 5-6 D* visits I've had over the years (the original install, repairs & upgrades), it's clear that there is a difference in installation quality and professionalism.
I will say this though, VoOm was right on it. Big props VoOm! Now if I can only get a signal in here, I'd be happy.
TheAntMan
03-24-2005, 07:57 PM
Man I'll call him lazy for you.. That is just sorry and unproffessional of an installer, and I hope Voom contacts who they contracted your install with and let them know about it because it reflects poorly Voom when they deal with IDIOT installers. He didn't have a ladder long enough???? Man...that's just plain sorry. Did he seem to even know what he was doing? Did he even install anything, or because you stuck to your guns and didn't want it on the deck, did he just leave??
When they call tommorrow and say they are coming, I would tell them :mic: "Good, and I hope this is a better experience than Yesturday," and I would tell whoever on the phone that you already dealt with a LAZY A.. and don't want another one. I knew you had the install to day, but was hoping to hear a better result. An idiot installer is not Voom's fault but it does reflect poorly on them.
.....hope tommorrow goes better for ya
A-
sonicrob
03-24-2005, 11:56 PM
I hope everything goes well for you my installer was lazy also he told me i could hook up the receivers while he mounts my dish i guess he wanted to save time beats me but i am very happy for having Voom i like there PQ and there HD channels. :D
gqarmstrong
03-26-2005, 06:00 PM
thanx antman and eric for your replies and info! it make a lot of sense. im going to order voom as soon as i finish this post and keep both networks. i'll wait and see what happens at the end of the month.
thanks again! :rockon:
TheAntMan
03-26-2005, 09:53 PM
You're welcome.. :) Let us know when you get your install date.
A-
hd4me2
03-28-2005, 03:02 PM
Now if I can only get a signal in here, I'd be happy.
Did the Voom installer ever get back to you to straighten out your problems?
ericpd
03-28-2005, 09:35 PM
Yeah hd, they did, but man has it been a nightmare. Still not completely fixed (I got an incomplete installation from the 1st installation company), but VoOm has promised that the installer due here tomorrow morning, will fix whatever needs fixing, no shortcuts, no whinning because I won't let them use any of the D* wiring, no whinning because installing the Dish/OTA requires getting up on the roof, none of that. And above all, no $100.00 charge just to do the job right. An installer came by this morning to look at my home. He made it clear that he was here to install, just to take a look at my property. I asked him why and he said he VoOm requested an installer from the new installation contractor take a look-see. He said that the 1st company reported that a 40ft ladder was required for the installation. He confirmed that that was bunk. He also said that a lot of contractors were going out of their way to define an install beyond 'standard'. The reason? VoOm doesn't pay as much as D* & E*. He just came out an admited that a standard instal for D* would probably be a special instal for VoOm. He also admitted that he understood why some installers do this, but conceded that it is unfair to the customers.
Anyway, VoOm assures me that the installation will be completed tomorrow and will not be charged any additional fees. BTW, I've told the installer during our conversation today, that I only want autonomus line from the dish into the house. Once inside the house they may use existing D* wiring to the three rooms. "Great, that will make it easier for us. What I'll do is the provide you with a switch so that you can switch between your services. He that's all I asked for in the first place.
For any of you folks out who are piping two services at the same time. How are you guys wired?
TheAntMan
03-28-2005, 10:54 PM
Eric, I'm sorry this has been a bad install for you. I'm sorry I couldn't warn you, but I guess I was just lucky with a good installer (not the smartest, but good). I know it must be making Voom upset as well, to hear this, their customer service people are some of the nicest I have ever dealth with. Good luck man. I'll be looking for some good news from you tommorrow :D
As far as the install goes, I talked with a CSR from Voom after reading your post, and an install is just that. She said they install the cable and wiring for you. It is easier for them to use existing wiring, but they should install if that's what the customer wants.
To answer your question about double wiring.....I have both wiring for TWC cable, and seperate wiring for Voom in the living room, and bedroom. For both cables, the installer (his name was eric, btw) used the exisitng cut for cable. Then all I needed to do was buy one of those wall plates that had the two holes and it worked out fine. No extra wall plate, or cutouts on the wall. Again....I hope you get a good installer(s) tommorrow. Good luck.
Ant-Man
ericpd
03-29-2005, 04:00 AM
Yeah AntMan it has been. But I'm hoping that once this is all said and done, the pain would have well worth it.
georgie
03-29-2005, 09:07 AM
Hey AntMan ! I haven't been around, not having to re-boot near as much lately.Maybe once on kids TV and one freeze that lasted a few seconds on big TV in the last 7-10 days. Really didn't do anything different on the boxes.?!?
Thanx
ericpd
03-29-2005, 07:36 PM
Hey Ant,... I be VoOmin!!!!!
TheAntMan
03-29-2005, 08:03 PM
You be VoOming?? Alright man, I'll be VoOming right there with ya!! Check out HDNews (100). I like HD News and their little music they use (dun...dun..dun). HDNews is starting to really be a news outlet with news, sports, weather (My wife makes fun of the weather because they tell you what the weather is like EVERYWHERE... I can tell you what the weather is like in Brazil as well, if anyone's headed that way) :rofl2:
Seriously, enjoy your picture. Watch Rush HD, Rave HD, If your wife is into fashion there is Ultra HD. Catch HDNEWS, watch Discovery HD, Universal HD, ESPNHD, Hopefully you got all your locals OTA so you can watch locals in HD. Catch LOST in ABC tommorrow in HD (new episode).
If there's any questions about Voom, big man, holler those out, and I'll help out when I can. Enjoy Voom (or as my 6 yr old calls it...VROOM) :D
playa4thee
03-30-2005, 01:55 AM
I think if Voom brings the prices down a notch and adds a few more channels, they will give D* a run for the $$$. Personlally, I am not yet ready to shell that much dough for a few extra channels. I pay D* about $139.00 a month as it is. If I add Voom then forget it...I guess I will wait and see what goes down. I wil stick with Dave for now...
ericpd
03-30-2005, 02:08 PM
Thanks AntMan. I finally came online in full around 5:30 p.m. yesterday. Was instructed to leave the receivers alone for at least an hour and possibly up to 2. Man was that a test of my will power. All of a sudden, channel 100 just popped up on one receiver then the other, then the 3rd,... locked and loaded!
The Mitsubishi WS-65815 is better than I had even expected. I've been viewing the Mit for the past several days throug the old five & dime D* box using the s-video out. A definite upgrade over the old Toshiba, but once I plugged the VoOm box up to the Mit, the WOW factor jumped off the scale. The Lab and Equidor channels are amazing. There are only 3 or 4 channels with really poor PQ. The 5.1 sound is even,... let's see, how can I put this, THICKER! I'm fat and happy!
I'm putting together a list of Q's now, now that I'm getting under the hood so to speak. Right now I'm trying to figure out how to remove the squeezed skinny people on the other two tv sets (circles look like eggs), and to get rid of those annoying black bars on the sides of the picture on some channels (the mit). I've gotten pretty much used to the bars top and bottom over the years, but side-to-side,... yuk!
playa, if you're paying D* a buck thirty nine now, that's $35 more than you'd pay for everything VoOm has to offer in 3 rooms. VoOm has announced the addition of 50 new channels by this summer (we've received 20 of them so far in the past two weeks), and it's rumored that Sirrus Radio may be coming on board. In one of the HT blogs there was an article pointing to a possible compromise between E* and Dolan, and Sirrus radio may be one of those pieces on the table. Apparently E* muscled an exclusive with Sirrus in some way. Don't really know! Just some food for thought. Let us know what you decide.
playa4thee
03-31-2005, 02:13 AM
playa, if you're paying D* a buck thirty nine now, that's $35 more than you'd pay for everything VoOm has to offer in 3 rooms. VoOm has announced the addition of 50 new channels by this summer (we've received 20 of them so far in the past two weeks), and it's rumored that Sirrus Radio may be coming on board. In one of the HT blogs there was an article pointing to a possible compromise between E* and Dolan, and Sirrus radio may be one of those pieces on the table. Apparently E* muscled an exclusive with Sirrus in some way. Don't really know! Just some food for thought. Let us know what you decide.
Thanks for the Info. But I was visiting VOOM's Website and I added up more than the $139.99 I'm paying now for less channels. I got the total PREMIER package, HD and Playboy ..I also Have 6 Receivers..
The thing about VOOM is the fact that I would have to pay so much for their setup and equiptment. How and Why would I invest in something that doesn't know the certainty of it's own future?
If they gave us the equiptment at a cheaper cost then I may switch..But so far....I stick with Dave..I will keep waiting to see what happens though...
hd4me2
03-31-2005, 01:34 PM
Thanks for the Info. But I was visiting VOOM's Website and I added up more than the $139.99 I'm paying now for less channels. I got the total PREMIER package, HD and Playboy ..I also Have 6 Receivers..
The thing about VOOM is the fact that I would have to pay so much for their setup and equiptment. How and Why would I invest in something that doesn't know the certainty of it's own future?
If they gave us the equiptment at a cheaper cost then I may switch..But so far....I stick with Dave..I will keep waiting to see what happens though...
Yea, it's pretty much a wash. If you were to get the same with Voom as you have now for D* it's 19 cents cheaper. VaVaVoom 89.90 + Playboy 19.90 + STB rental 30.00 = 139.80. You would also have to pay $49 each for the 4th, 5th and 6th receivers ($147).
TheAntMan
04-01-2005, 11:53 PM
E-
How's the Vooming going, man after a couple of days? Glad to read your enthusiastic post!!
Playa...you use 6 boxes? Man got a TV in every room. Eric was right though when he said it was cheaper for the 3 room offer. $104 compared to $139 (3 rooms with vavavoom which means 39 HD channels and almost 150 channels) actually it would be all that for only $60 for the 1st 2 months. I understand though, you're wanting to wait and see. In a way, we all are, but enjoying what we do have in the meantime.
ericpd
04-02-2005, 12:40 AM
Oh everything is good here Antman. Had a visit from another installer yesterday,... put up another antenea. He left the 1st on on the dish mount and put the 2nd on a separate mount about 10 feet away from the 1st. He pointed the 2nd one towards another cluster of towers and now I'm getting DC stations and Baltimore stations. Sweet. I'm getting outstanding signal on 12 local channels totals. He also put up a larger dish. He said it wouldn't get me any more channels, but he did say it would give me a little more viewing time when bad weather visits the area. Let's just say the guy was determined to lay on me everything he could or had in his truck. 'Bout time I got a break from these guys! And as far as the Mit goes,... I tell you man, on some of these channels looking at this screen is like looking through a freshly cleaned window. I'm so glad I didn't get the Toshiba!
How was your trip?
TheAntMan
04-02-2005, 04:40 PM
The trip was good man. Dallas for a couple of days on business trip, but ready to get back home. Well E-, I guess the Voom countdown has come and passed ....again. :cool:
Like the February deadline before that...
and the January deadline before that... :cool:
It's a gorgeous day here in Houston, so gonna start the BBQ and get ready for some friends and the Final 4 matchups. I have no dog in this race, so I can just enjoy what happens.
Talk to ya later man!
A-
Still Vooming in Houston
hd4me2
04-03-2005, 12:14 PM
Oh everything is good here Antman. Had a visit from another installer yesterday,... put up another antenea. He left the 1st on on the dish mount and put the 2nd on a separate mount about 10 feet away from the 1st. He pointed the 2nd one towards another cluster of towers and now I'm getting DC stations and Baltimore stations. Sweet. I'm getting outstanding signal on 12 local channels totals. He also put up a larger dish. He said it wouldn't get me any more channels, but he did say it would give me a little more viewing time when bad weather visits the area. Let's just say the guy was determined to lay on me everything he could or had in his truck. 'Bout time I got a break from these guys! And as far as the Mit goes,... I tell you man, on some of these channels looking at this screen is like looking through a freshly cleaned window. I'm so glad I didn't get the Toshiba!
How was your trip?
What company did your Voom install? Sounds like the second guy was much better than the first.
gqarmstrong
04-04-2005, 11:55 PM
hey guys, i just wanted to let you know that i received my voom installation and i'm pretty satisfied! but there are a few quirks you probaly can help me with.
1. the non hd programming pic resolution is bad
2. the local channel have bars (4:3) and dont stretch if not hd
3. this one is just my personal issue, but the box is HUGE! i can't hide it in my kitchen cabinet anymore. i have to do semi-major sheetrock and cable running to hide this bemouth!
TheAntMan
04-05-2005, 02:09 AM
Armstrong, glad you go the install. You're pretty satisfied, hmmm, let's try to get you very satisfied. First make sure your at 1080i/720p. There is a door on the front of the stb and press the red button to see what your output is. Top line is 1080i, 2nd from top is 720p, 2nd from the bottom is 480p, bottom bar is 480i.
Your SD channels can look bad but with tweaking in your tv menu, they can look pretty good. To get into your Voom menu, press the VoOm button and then the green button twice. You can go in there and look/change some of your different settings. Post back if you want more detail about the VoOm stb and I can get more specific.
Yes, the local channels are in digital form and those locals are 4:3. Remember that morning programming is not done in HD broadcast, so the channels are digital, so they still look very good. Now in the evening, your locals will shine with more & more evening programming available in HD broadcast, and your screen will fill out with HD quality. :hyper:
Box is Huge?? LOL. I didn't notice that much differnece between STB's. I looked at my TWC STB and the VoOm stb is maybe 1/8 inch bigger, but not by much. Maybe you got the extra big deluxe box?? JK.
So tweak with your settings for better SD. The locals are in digital form, and morning programs with the bars give way to evening programs that are growing in HD content, and the size of the box...I guess that is a personal issue, huh? :rofl2:
Glad to have you voomin and enjoy it. post back if you have any questions/comments. welcome to the club to...not very many of us... only 46,000 subs, but growing..
A-
gqarmstrong
04-06-2005, 01:48 AM
Antman, i changed the output resolution to 1080i it looks a little better. i have the huge silver motorola voom box which is about double the size of my previous time warner stb. thanx for the explanation about the local channels and the bars!
raywwatch
04-06-2005, 06:35 PM
Haven't been on the site latley, but it's good to see some other happy Voomers. I've been hooked up since the beginning of January and haven't turned my big dish on since. :cheers:
Greysquirrel
04-08-2005, 11:59 AM
VOOM will close down April 30th 2005
oman321
04-08-2005, 12:17 PM
Isn't that what they said about 3/31?
ericpd
04-08-2005, 01:24 PM
Yeah, but this time, I think it's the real McCoy.
All good things must come to an end.
TheAntMan
04-08-2005, 02:09 PM
Isn't that what they said about 3/31?
I know Big O-, we have heard that the past three months, and I thought here we go again.......it looks like this time...it is :nono2:
Sorry Eric, ggstrong, told you about VoOm, and didn't know it was going to close up this soon. I thought it was going to last longer...but looks as if all 9 lives were used up.
Last month the Voom board had the same type of message, but then another site was created voomllc.com, but even that has the same message.
Well, one month left, then until then guys :cheers:
Cablevision has begun to shut down the Voom service.
http://www.smartmoney.com/bn/ON/index.cfm?story=ON-20050408-000662-0859
ericpd
04-08-2005, 06:35 PM
Hey, lemme know what you guys plan on doing come May 1st. Here's what's swirling around in my injured little head: Take advantage of the current DishNetwork promotion (2 DVR receivers & 1 HD receiver), check out some nice soothing Sirrus Radio (I hear it's way better than Music Choice), and use my 2 VoOm installed OTA to get my locals and a lot of locals south of me.
My real question is this, what are they going to do about these boxes in my house?
TheAntMan
04-08-2005, 06:46 PM
Eric, I saw the promo too about Dish. I don't know about dish, so I guess, I'll read over there to see what dish people say.....I don't think they can come close though to 39 HD channels.....
about the STB's, I doubt that since it's shutting down, they will spend the dough to send installers to de-install the equipment. I believe the signal will just stop being sent and the boxes become paperweights. We can still use the OTA antanneas and that is a good thing. OTA antanneas are not cheap, but at least mine only cost $1. :overclap:
Greysquirrel
04-08-2005, 06:53 PM
I you are near the Canadian border maybe you can get
Bell CA. service.
http://www.bell.ca/shop/PrsShpTvHDTV_Landing.page
TheAntMan
04-08-2005, 06:58 PM
Thanks Grey, that won't help me, but may be an option for others farther north than I.
ericpd
04-08-2005, 07:26 PM
Well AntMan, E* can't be any worse then D*, when it comes to PQ, CS, and committment to HD programming. I'm thinking E* because at least they're the ones who will end up with VoOm's technology,... might give us VoOmers an advantage of some sort, who knows. And I'm hearing that E* may even take on VoOm's 21. I don't know man,.. I'm just as confused and sadden as the next VoOmer, but anything other than D*, especially if it means Sirrus over the blan Music Choice program package. And then add in any mix of DVR and/or HD receivers for new subs,... Something to think about AntMan. But like you, I think I'll spend some time listening to what current E* subs are saying. What about the 'rest-a-you-guys'?
Flashjeff
04-09-2005, 04:39 AM
Pardon my ignorance on this topic, but who takes over Voom's HD's programming, not to mention it's satellites? Will Dish Network or Direct TV absorb Voom's HD channels or will they just go away when Voom shuts down? Does anyone have any answers?
raywwatch
04-09-2005, 07:13 AM
Cablevision is retaining the rights to the Voom 21 HD exclusives, maybe they will try to sell the programming to E, D and other cable systems. As far as I've heard they are going to come and pick up the Voom boxes (I don't think I'll ever see an installer comming out to pick up a useless box. Especially since they have stopped paying Installs Inc.) As long as they don't send a kill signal to your box you will be able to recieve your locals, but your program guide will be useless.
"It's Better To Have Voomed And Lost Than Never Voomed At All!"
ericdo
04-09-2005, 08:06 AM
Most likely if Cablevision is retaining the right for the 21 hd channels, they will probably add it to Interavtive Optimum. Io as over 1 million customers. If they are smart they will have the 21 HD channels from voom and add it to IO and possible charge a package fee. Io will be huge if they do that it will have a total of 38 HD channels. That will by far beat satellite and other digital cable companys. If Cablevision knows how to do good business they will grow what is already successful.
TheAntMan
04-09-2005, 10:33 AM
Flash, Cablevision will keep the rights to voom's 21 hd channels. The company said it may shop those channels around to other satellite or cables providers. E* (dish network) has bought the satellite, but all other voom assets stay with cablevision. Cablevision is just shutting voom down after a loss of over 400 million in 2004. There had been work by charles dolan to purchase all remaining voom assets from cablevision, he even created VoOmLLC, but obviously it did not work out.
I have heard they may indeed sell the rights to their HD channels to Comcast and other cable/satellite companies.
gqarmstrong
04-09-2005, 08:35 PM
hey antman no apologies needed! i'll chalk it up as an experience. maybe you'll have to pay me all the money i spent on installing voom $1 :wow: ! seriously it will be simple for me to convert back to timewarner since i still have roadrunner.
my question is since my plasma doesn't have a built in tuner i guess the ota antennae is worthless to me? or can i still use it some how?
gparris
04-10-2005, 02:01 PM
A nice as Voom's HD channels were/are I seriously don't think the other cable companies have the backbone to add more HD channels like Time Warner Cable, who hasn't had an addition since ESPN-HD in fall, 2004.
Dish might add some with its new property, but them again it seems more involved in less HD and more international, standard definition channels and the like.
Voom was it for HD content. No one could match it for quantity or quality of HD for the price. I will not go back to a paid television provider until some one is able to match one half of what Voom provided for the price thay provided it at. Back to free hdtv (OTA) for me.
TheAntMan
04-12-2005, 05:16 PM
hey antman no apologies needed! i'll chalk it up as an experience. maybe you'll have to pay me all the money i spent on installing voom $1 :wow: ! seriously it will be simple for me to convert back to timewarner since i still have roadrunner.
my question is since my plasma doesn't have a built in tuner i guess the ota antennae is worthless to me? or can i still use it some how?
I'll pay you back in payments pardner.. :)
About the antanea, sorry player, but TV's with built in tuners will benefit most, but for you, the box should still work to receive OTA locals. What some Voom subs have said that even after the satellite stops relaying signals...Voom's channels will cease to show, but the box will still let you pick up your locals OTA in digital form. Some subs have said when they were getting installed, even before their voom boxes were activated their sets were working with the OTA antanea. We'll see for sure though after 4/30/05.
At least you have it for future use if you get a second HD-ready TV for another room. Later Big Man
Ant
TheAntMan
04-12-2005, 05:22 PM
A nice as Voom's HD channels were/are I seriously don't think the other cable companies have the backbone to add more HD channels like Time Warner Cable, who hasn't had an addition since ESPN-HD in fall, 2004.
Dish might add some with its new property, but them again it seems more involved in less HD and more international, standard definition channels and the like.
I agree GP, and the sad thing is...No one has any incentive to add much HD channels.... Voom had the most, and maybe if they stuck around longer, the competetion would have forced other providers to keep up, but not anymore.....we, not just VoOmers, but HD enthusiusts, lose.
Look at blw's post (you go big man), VoOmer's felt strongly about what they had.
mhines
04-13-2005, 05:02 PM
come end of this month...
http://www.cnet.com/4520-6033_1-6204659-1.html?tag=nl.e501
Soundteck
04-13-2005, 05:37 PM
I read today that there was interest from EchoStar (purchaser of the VOOM sat) may also be interested in the CONTENT that was created by cablevision. We shall see!!! :stuckthum
gparris
04-13-2005, 09:50 PM
If Echostar had the HD channel capacity with the satellite it bought and the access to the Voom channels, would it add more HD channels and effectively blow Directv right out of the water, so to speak, HD-channel-leader-wise?
I would bet, since HD LiLs are the biggest worry on both satellite-providers due to cable, I wonder if that is all Dish would add instead and the rest of us who want national channels (ones we all would get) would be stuck again without Monsters HD, Universal HD, Cinemax HD and the like.
GripperDon
04-14-2005, 03:09 AM
Whoa is me what to do?
I have two Voom's installed. One Sat plus the Off the Air unit. What will happen to the Bird, my Equipment?
Oh whoa I loved Voom. Wonder id the Decoders will work with anything else. The cable company will not guarantee the install of the Good HD DVR, say you get what s on the truck no guarantees, What a deal, I need my HD my Samsung Dlp and my Zenith LCD are starving for input. :mecry: :sobbing: :eek:
It appears as if people are now getting "Service To Be Shutdown" e-mails from Voom. Any confirmation to this?
mjones73
04-14-2005, 01:48 PM
Whoa is me what to do?
I have two Voom's installed. One Sat plus the Off the Air unit. What will happen to the Bird, my Equipment?
Oh whoa I loved Voom. Wonder id the Decoders will work with anything else. The cable company will not guarantee the install of the Good HD DVR, say you get what s on the truck no guarantees, What a deal, I need my HD my Samsung Dlp and my Zenith LCD are starving for input. :mecry: :sobbing: :eek:
Word has it that the OTA section will still work but without guide info. Besides that, the receivers will make nice door stops when the service stops.
Ratman
04-14-2005, 01:48 PM
http://www.hdtvoice.com/voice/showthread.php?t=18432
It appears as if people are now getting "Service To Be Shutdown" e-mails from Voom. Any confirmation to this?
TheAntMan
04-14-2005, 03:27 PM
What will happen to the Bird, my Equipment?
Big Don, If the TV has built in tuner, use the OTA antanea to feed directly into your TV's "digital" input for digital locals (like me :) ) If the tv does not have HD tuner Then the STB can still be used like mj said. The dish itself is just a collectors item after the signal stops coming down and bye-bye to all the HD original channels for all us VoOmers :( (LabHD was just starting to get more expanded too)
TheAntMan
04-14-2005, 03:29 PM
Besides that, the receivers will make nice door stops when the service stops.
:rofl2: ....I was thinking if my wife is ironing, and I need to iron something, I can plug in the box and cover the air vents to let it get real heated..and then I could use it as an iron :rofl2:
mjones73
04-14-2005, 03:52 PM
I read a good response over at avsforum.com...
Got a boat and a long rope?
TheAntMan
04-18-2005, 09:05 PM
With Voom officially closing down, what's next? I talked with a dish rep and they said for Voomers, they have installation for up to 4 rooms free w/1 yr sub. They basically have 3 packages. The 60 channel package for 31.99 including locals, 120 channel package for 41.99, and then the 180 channel package for 51.99. All include locals. Now this does NOT include any HD channels. To have HD channels it is an additional $9.99/month for 5 (YES COUNT....5) channels. Those are ESPNHD, TNTHD, DiscoveryHD, HDNET, and HDNET movies. If we sign up now we can get the 180 channel package for the 60 channel price for 3 months....(then regular pricing). All they have is 5 HD channels for $9.99. If you are coming from VoOm with the 34-39 HD channels......this is a letdown :( . There was no additional price for HD channels VoOm just had 'em.....
In addition to VoOm, I also have TW cable which has all the HD that I mentioned above, so there will be no benefit to going with Dish. I always had TW cable but when I saw what VoOm had (it was going to be a 2nd bill payment but), man it was on! So I will stick with TW cable and just enjoy the HD channels they do have. It was fun while it lasted with VoOm :hyper:
but the dance is over. For any other VoOmers who still don't know...that's the offer I got from dish, and it might interest you, but it does not seem they are trying very hard to court us to sign with them. Anyway, just wanted to post the offer I was told about for those switching from VoOm to Dish.
Nothing like moving backwards in time!! It SUXS! :sobbing:
Flashjeff
04-19-2005, 04:49 AM
I'm a Dish Network subscriber, and it seems to be a shame that they either can't or won't add Voom's extensive list of HD channels. To do so would be one heck of an enticement to draw Voom subscribers from Direct TV which actively plans on adding more HD channels in the near future. But then, I'm no expert on this subject, so I can't say just what Charlie plans to do.
TheAntMan
04-19-2005, 08:13 PM
Nothing like moving backwards in time!! It SUXS! :sobbing:
Hey blw, flash, I read an interesting article about what maybe hurt VoOm. The article said that maybe V* made the mistake of marketing itself as an HDTV provider. At first I thought that was not the reason, but as I read the article, it kind of made sense. Those of us who have HDTV's got excited, but we are a small part of the population. Most probably thought that they had to have an HDTV to get Voom. If it was marketed more as an alternative or compitetor to dish/dtv, maybe regular SD channel america would have given it a second look. It could have been marketed as just a satellite provider for mostly SD america, and a blurb could have been added like "oh, yeah, we also have 21 exclusive HD channels for HDTV users". The article made sense though. What do any of you Voomers/non Voomers think. Could it/should it have been marketed differenly?
Flashjeff
04-20-2005, 05:01 AM
I would agree that Voom should've marketed its services differently, given that a very small percentage of homes own HDTV's, the service might not have sounded attractive to the majority of the populace who still own SD sets and are content with same or for whatever reason, can't afford to upgrade their sets. By marketing itself as solely an HD service instead of an alternative to Dish Network, Direct TV or cable, Voom lost out of thousands of potential customers. A very poor strategy that led to their demise.
sto22
04-20-2005, 10:06 AM
Didn't they offer a entire set-up including a choice of two HDTV's for around $1000?
I always thought that was an interesting plan. Takes HTIB to a whole new level.
sto22
Hey blw, flash, I read an interesting article about what maybe hurt VoOm. The article said that maybe V* made the mistake of marketing itself as an HDTV provider. At first I thought that was not the reason, but as I read the article, it kind of made sense. Those of us who have HDTV's got excited, but we are a small part of the population. Most probably thought that they had to have an HDTV to get Voom. If it was marketed more as an alternative or compitetor to dish/dtv, maybe regular SD channel america would have given it a second look. It could have been marketed as just a satellite provider for mostly SD america, and a blurb could have been added like "oh, yeah, we also have 21 exclusive HD channels for HDTV users". The article made sense though. What do any of you Voomers/non Voomers think. Could it/should it have been marketed differenly?
TheAntMan
I read that article as well. I think it does hold merit. Voom made a lot of marketing mistakes. They started marketing campaign way to late in the game, they marketed to HD exclusively, they were not represented in big box electronics stores right along side all the large screen HDTV's (accept Sears, which hid them in a corner and shown on a little 17"LCD)etc...
I really think that once they were starting to get their marketing campaign going, the bleeding was to heavey for the board of directors to let it operate further. It's a shame that Voom was not given at least a 5 year commitment from Cablevision to turn the corner. I think with the growth of HDTV sales and exposure, Voom would have had a good shot at becoming popular and profitable. I think Cablevision will regret their decision 5 years down the road, but for now, they are happy to stop the negative cash flow.
Flashjeff
04-21-2005, 04:20 PM
It certainly didn't help that Voom did very little in the way of advertising on TV. Other than a half hour infomercial that haphazardly circulated on cable (I saw it several times on the old FOX Sports World channel), I never saw any commercials on the networks, nor was there much in the way of advertising in print either. And yeah, AntMan, I too only saw Voom in Sears, and even then, it wasn't prominently displayed as Dish Network is that store's satellite provider of choice. All things considered, Voom dropped the ball too many times in too many places to warrant surviving in such a cutthroat business.
TheAntMan
04-25-2005, 03:21 PM
Well, when I started the thread, I didn't know it was an ACTUAL countdown..
Have you guys already been bombarded with Dish calls/Directtv calls? They've called me, harrased me, been to my house, tried to pick up my kids from school, slept out in my yard, bought me a car, paid off my mortgage.... okay maybe not all that, but they have called.
5 more days to go.......
kevinw
04-25-2005, 03:42 PM
1)VOOM killed itself in not having locals available. OTA is a great thing but not for everyone.
2)They did not have your regular SAT/Cable channels untill half way through. regardless of HD channels available, the programming itself was not enough to sway the crowds.
3) SEARS - this was not the right choice to be your exclusive marketer.
4) Long delays for installs- crappy insatllers
5 Programming -plenty of channels but no variety
miamimick
04-25-2005, 03:45 PM
Guys I jumped the gun and went with DirectTV as soon as I found out Voom was going under.
Don't follow in my footsteps the service doesn't compare to Voom. I am going to try and return my HD reciever to best buy and get my money back.
Huge difference when most channels direct tv provides are in 480i or 720i so far ESPN HD is the only channel for me that looks as if Voom was still around.
I might try Dish is there anyone out there who has dish ? How do you feel about there programming. Is it really worth going with them.
We miss you VOOM !
:bow:
kevinw
04-25-2005, 03:51 PM
Guys I jumped the gun and went with DirectTV as soon as I found out Voom was going under.
Don't follow in my footsteps the service doesn't compare to Voom. I am going to try and return my HD reciever to best buy and get my money back.
Huge difference when most channels direct tv provides are in 480i or 720i so far ESPN HD is the only channel for me that looks as if Voom was still around.
I might try Dish is there anyone out there who has dish ? How do you feel about there programming. Is it really worth going with them.
We miss you VOOM !
:bow:
standard channels will be no different than VOOM..
TheAntMan
04-25-2005, 03:59 PM
Long delays for installs- crappy insatllers
Yeah Kev, I heard about that, but I guess I was lucky. My buddy ericpd was not so lucky though, huh? You still out there eric?
Hello Miami. Welcome to the forum (1st post I see), sorry under such Voom demise circumstances.
miamimick
04-25-2005, 04:24 PM
Thanks AntMan, You know what's so frustrating is you spend all this money on a plasma (Sony kde-50xbr950) and anything that is not in HD looks like crap. At least with Voom I could enjoy plenty of programming in HD.
My off air antenna works great and most primetime shows are in HD so you don't have to rely on DirectTv or Dish
kevinw
04-25-2005, 04:26 PM
Thanks AntMan, You know what's so frustrating is you spend all this money on a plasma (Sony kde-50xbr950) and anything that is not in HD looks like crap. At least with Voom I could enjoy plenty of programming in HD.
My off air antenna works great and most primetime shows are in HD so you don't have to rely on DirectTv or Dish
Thats really why none of us truly need SAT or Cable. Most HD is OTA and better variety too.
mjones73
04-25-2005, 04:40 PM
"Huge difference when most channels direct tv provides are in 480i or 720i so far ESPN HD is the only channel for me that looks as if Voom was still around."
All the Directv SD channels are in 480i, there is no such thing as 720i. Your HD channels available via Directv are 1080i with the exception of ESPNHD, ABC, and Fox which are 720P.
You might want to consider trying out cable if HD is available in your area also.
hd4me2
04-26-2005, 03:59 PM
I e-mailed Dish asking what they were doing for ex-Voomer's since D* was offering a $200 rebate, here's their response:
We apologize for the delay in our response and thank you for your email. In regards to your inquiry, Dish Network is not offering any type of rebate for ex-Voom customers. Currently, we do have a promotion available called the Digital Home Advantage. In this promotion, you may have up to four rooms installed at no charge. The upfront cost that is required is $49.99 via credit or debit card. The $49.99 will then be credited to your first bill. There is no contract or agreement that is necessary to sign to receive the Dish Network services.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please refer to www.dishnetwork.com or reply to this email.
Sincerely,
Myra D.
sto22
04-27-2005, 12:00 PM
Thats really why none of us truly need SAT or Cable. Most HD is OTA and better variety too.
Not so fast... If I gave up SAT, I'd have PBS-HD (About 4 hours a night), ABC & NBC DT, and CBS & FOX Analog. HD-Cable not available. I TRULY NEED SAT ! ! :drool11:
sto22
kevinw
04-27-2005, 12:11 PM
Not so fast... If I gave up SAT, I'd have PBS-HD (About 4 hours a night), ABC & NBC DT, and CBS & FOX Analog. HD-Cable not available. I TRULY NEED SAT ! ! :drool11:
sto22
Sat doesn't get you CBS or FOX HD progarmming or does it? Are you one of te few in the gray areas thatare allowed waivers for CBS and FOX from Direct?
sto22
04-27-2005, 12:17 PM
I initially qualified for East/West feeds of NBC & FOX SD when I first signed up with Directv.
When NBC & FOX HD became available, they were automatically added to my programming. (So I get both coasts HD & SD for NBC & FOX)
I don't qualify for ABC or CBS anything.
I'll make a correction to my previous post. If I get a rotator for my antenna, I'd get a 65% NBD-HD signal from Springfield. (75 miles) (My other stations are 30 miles in the other direction)
sto22
kevinw
04-27-2005, 01:32 PM
I initially qualified for East/West feeds of NBC & FOX SD when I first signed up with Directv.
When NBC & FOX HD became available, they were automatically added to my programming. (So I get both coasts HD & SD for NBC & FOX)
I don't qualify for ABC or CBS anything.
I'll make a correction to my previous post. If I get a rotator for my antenna, I'd get a 65% NBD-HD signal from Springfield. (75 miles) (My other stations are 30 miles in the other direction)
sto22
I got you..your one of the few with bad location..great place to live just not to get HD..
sto22
05-02-2005, 12:43 PM
Everything's a trade off. :)
Plenty of elbow room, but the tornadoes are a bit bothersome. ;)
TheAntMan
05-03-2005, 01:12 PM
Well, this was a good thread, but the countdown's now over. We can still use the STB's for OTA signals (also still with the program guide, which I didn't expect). That's a good thing if your HDTV does not have a built in tuner, and you don't have another service provider. For those of you who got the $1 install....you may not have had VoOm for very long, but for your $1 you got Component cables, a DVI cable, an OTA antannea, Audio RCA cables, Video RCA cable, and a future collectors item STB. Not bad for a $1 investment :overclap:
Dish now has 10 of VoOm's original HD channels, I don't know how that's going, but I hope Dish subscribers are happy with the extra HD they have gotten.
VoOm's countdown is over...it's been fun.
raywwatch
05-03-2005, 10:32 PM
My Voom box started locking up yesterday and I had to unplug it. It still works for locals but If I select all channels it tells me that its downlaoding new info (fat chance!). No more guide :sobbing: but for what I paid for it I'm not going to complain!