DO NOT GET DISH NETWORK.
I know this is a thead discussing Directv and cable but any body thinking of getting Dish Network....NOOOOOOOO
When I stopped service becuase I moved, they tried to charge me to cancel when I was already out of my contract. Then they needed equipement back, but never sent me the boxes so the charged me for it, then when I called to complian the said they would ship some boxes and refund once they got it. NOPE, they restarted my service.........so when I called and asked where the boxes were, they said what boxes and tried to tell me that my service bill was late....so I had them shut it off again and get boxes so I can get refunded. THey charged me again for shutting off services and a second equipement charge. I finally sent the equipment back in diffrent boxes and they showed theyt recieved them. But no refund. It took me almost 4 months of calls to finally get my $1300 back, they still owe me $200 but I said forget it and wash my hands clean of them.
I now have Comcast digital cable with HD, I love it. I have only compared it to 2 direct tv setups, one was HD but it was a nockoff brand tv and wasnt very good, I think it was the TV. And the second wasnt HD but over all the picture was good.
I think just find the one that will give you the most options for the best price, and go with that one for a year, then if you are not happy just cancel it and get the other. Most companies will give you free equipement with a 1 year
contract, so you shouldnt be out much money