Digital Home Plan - what is it?

[FSAMAAA]

I just got off the phone with Dish, and was told the best offer they could give me for the 811 was $449. Given what I have read on this forum (long-time lurker, short-time member), it sounds like I should be able to get a noticeably better deal from them.

The rep told me that I am on the "Digital Home Plan". I have seen that referenced once before, and the implication was that the 811 deal was for all existing customers EXCEPT Digital Home Plan subscribers.

First question ... what is Digital Home Plan? I didn't think I was renting my equipment, and I assumed it was some fancy marketing name for normal subscribers.

Second question ... if being part of DHP is a problem, how do I get rid of it?

Third question ... if I am stuck with DHP, how do I upgrade to the 811 (or the 921, if it ever comes out) without paying too much?

Fourth question (off topic) ... how come there isn't a Kansas City section under the "Regional HDTV Discussion" section? I have seen users post from the KC area, and would like to hear about their experiences in picking up OTA in this area.

Any help is appreciated.

Rob

BTW, to whoever set up the FAQs, thank you. The information has been invaluable in my search for knowledge. Also, the links to antennaweb (and other sites) has been really helpful.

[kevinw]

Rob, glad you quit lurking:whistle:
At any rate DHP or Dish Home Plan is rental vs buying of your Dish equipment.
Technically DHP folks are not eligible for an upgrade BUT How long have you been a DISH customer? If over a year and you have more than the minimum programming e-mail CEO@echostar.com and let them know you are longtime customer who spends a lot for programming.
In my case the 150 package/ locals and a major PPV per month.( kids rent the WWE PPV every month) and 3 boxes.
They should offer you the 811 as an addon for 149-199 depending.

As for the KC sight PM AdminnJoe to add it for you.
Let us know how it all works out

[FSAMAAA]

Thanks for the quick response. I have been a 100 / Locals subscriber for about 3 years, and NHL Center Ice last year and this.

I will send the e-mail, and let you know how it turns out.

Rob

[FSAMAAA]

Got a call today from someone in EchoStar's "executive offices". They told me who they were, and that they had seen my e-mail. They then proceeded to offer me the 811 for $199. I accepted. It is being installed on Saturday afternoon.

I have mixed emotions about it. First, I am glad that they are willing to work with good, established customers. The price is probably about as good as I can expect under the circumstances. The other side of the argument is that I was lucky enough to have the right resources (this forum, to be specific) to know how not to get taken advantage of. What about the people who don't know how to get the same deal I just got? Are they just EchoStar's suckers?

I am not sure if it is a case of caveat emptor or not. Oh well, I can't solve all the world's problems. KevinW, thanks for the advice. It worked out just fine.

Rob

[57U]

An educated consumer, gets the worm, or something like that. Please don't have pity on "the others". They help us by paying full price so that we can get good deals. It's the same with everything you buy.