Satellite TV services are widely available in the United States, especially in such a large media market as Los Angeles. In this complete guide, you will find information about the key satellite TV providers in LA, the channels and shows that are offered, typical costs and agreements as well as tips to consider when making your decision.
Here are the Major Satellite TV Providers in Los Angeles
The three biggest satellite TV companies with significant customer bases in the Los Angeles metro area are:
- DIRECTV: DIRECTV serves more than 19 million customers across the United States, making it one of the biggest satellite TV companies. Their satellite broadcasts are sourced from several satellites in a circular geosynchronous orbit around the earth.
- Dish Network: Dish is the immediate competitor of DIRECTV with over 11 million customers. Similar to DIRECTV, Dish utilises a network of high powered satellites to broadcast their TV signals all over the country.
- Spectrum TV (formerly Time Warner Cable): Although Spectrum is a cable provider, it utilizes cable and satellite to deliver some of its TV channels. Spectrum is heavily in LA since it is the successor to the former local cable monopoly.
Channels, Packages & Pricing
Satellite and cable TV providers offer different channel packages at a wide range of price points:
Prices vary from $50 per month and above for packages offering more than 150 plus channels. The mid-tier channel suites that provide 200-250+ channels are generally offered for $70-$100. Premium packages with more than 300 channels can go up to $150 per month.
Almost all providers include Spanish language packages with programs such as Univision, ESPN Deportes, Fox Deportes, and Galavision and go for $5- $15 more per month.
DIRECTV has the exclusive rights to NFL Sunday Ticket which allows viewers to watch all the other games that are not being aired in the viewer’s local area. Almost all satellite and cable providers include the major local sports channels such as Prime Ticket and Spectrum SportsNet for LA’s pro teams.
The majority of the providers allow customization by charging an additional monthly fee for channel bundles such as HBO, Showtime, Starz, Cinemax, and sports packages.
HD is now normal but 4K Ultra HD is still a rarity and is available on a limited number of channels in some packages. Subscription to DVR service also contributes to the monthly cost.
Popular Channel Lineups
While channel offerings vary somewhat between Dish Network, DIRECTV and Spectrum, most carry the major networks like:
- ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, PBS
- ESPN, FS 1, NBC sports network, CBS sports network
- USA, TNT, TBS, FX, Comedy Central
- HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Discovery
- Disney Channel, Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network
- AMC, HBO, Showtime, Starz, Cinemax
Regional sports networks depend on local cable rights so you need to consult your provider for stations like Prime Ticket, Spectrum SportsNet, Pac-12 Network or NFL RedZone.
Contracts and Promotions
Contract terms with most satellite TV providers are 1-2 years while with cable TV providers, there are no contractual terms, they offer their services on a monthly basis. There are usually new customer promotions such as a 25%-50% discount for the first 3-12 months. Some bundled TV/internet/phone service plans may also offer lower monthly rates with long-term contracts.
The monthly bills go up, sometimes up to 20% or more, when old promotions expire; therefore ensure you know the actual regular charges you will be required to pay every month over the entire length of the contract. Expect to negotiate for better rates as an existing customer when your contract is up.
Some of the most important aspects that one has to consider when selecting a Satellite/Cable provider are as follows:
With the major satellite companies having broadly similar core channel offerings, here are some additional factors to weigh in your decision:
- Channel Selection – Pay attention to any channel that is a ‘requirement’ such as regional sports networks. DIRECTV may have more specialized stations in higher packages than the ones listed above.
- DVR Choice - Compare the amount of disk storage, at the same time taping capabilities, fast forward options and overall ease of use of the different DVRs.
- Weather Problems - Sometimes, due to rain and snow, the signals from the satellite can be disrupted. Cable is also less likely to be affected by weather conditions such as storms and lightning.
- Bundled Services – It is when the cable company provides you with TV, home internet and phone services whereby this usually gives the highest monthly discount if you wish to have all these services.
- Customer Service Reputation – All the major providers have negative things to say about their customer service but the comparison site could show one as being more favorable in this area and having better customer service satisfaction.
Making the Final Decision
As a result, by using the information provided in this guide, residents of Los Angeles can now tailor the choice of the best satellite TV provider according to the channels, price, contract terms, and service quality that will be appropriate for their households. The best chance of securing substantial savings is in comparing plans across two to three of the most leading options while enjoying your favorite TV shows.
Ready to upgrade your TV experience? Call us now at (877) 471-4808 to find the perfect Dish Network plan for you! Don’t miss out on great entertainment—our team is here to help you choose the best package and get you started today.
