What satellite network for RVing?

[ready2roam]

Folks,
We're new to RVing and just purchases our first RV, a Newmar Ventana. Part of the deal includes a satellite dish and receiver but we need to decide which network to use. We've never used satellite (always cable) and never with an RV. Is there anything specific or different between Dish network and DirectTV as applies to RVing that would lean us in one direction? Is one or the other easier to work with or easier to find in the sky?
Thanks for your input.
Ready2Roam

[94-Newmar]

Use the 'search' function above and type in the box "DirecTV Dish Network"... there are thousands of posts and many opinions it seems. Opinions are like armpits.... everybody has a couple and they usually stink! haha

I personally use DirecTV because I already have DirecTV service here at my house and it only cost me another $5.95/month to add their service to my Motorhome. I use a carry-out model antenna since I couldn't stomach spending 1000.00 on a dome, plus due to their small receiving surfaces inside the domes are useless if you're parked under trees which we are so many times. So I have my trusty 18" carry-out dish and 100' ft of cable to position the dish where I can get good signal most anywhere.

There are endless conversations/threads in here about which is better/worse. I personally think it boils down to whatever works best for your situation both monetarily and in functionality.

(moderator might move this post to the appropriate forum rather than the new member check in forum)

[frankdamp]

If you're a fan of Canadian TV, which is often available on cable systems in the northern states, be aware that the US satellite systems don't offer it.

[LindaH]

Pick the one that has the best programming package for YOU. There is little difference, in practice, between Dish Network and DirecTV if you are having an open-faced, multiple-LNB dish installed on the roof of your RV (as opposed to a dome).

Now, if you are having a dome installed instead of an open-faced, multiple-LNB dish, then things change:

1. With a dome and DirecTV, you will only be able to view SD programming since no dome can pick up the KA signal that DirecTV broadcasts their HD programming in. However, you will only have one satellite (101) to "see" so you won't have any problem watching two different programs on two different TVs.

2. With a dome and Dish Network, you WILL be able to view HD programming. However, since a dome can only "see" one satellite at a time, you will not be able to use a DVR to watch one program on one satellite while trying to record a second program on a different satellite. The same holds true if you want to watch two different programs on two different TVs...if those two programs come on different satellites, only one of you will be able to watch their program.

Since you are having a satellite dish installed, I would recommend opting for the open-faced, multiple-LNB dish, either from Motosat or Winegard (my personal choice would be the Winegard), over a dome because of the inherent limitations of a dome. As you mentioned, you will need to make a decision as to which service to go with before deciding on a dish since they are not interchangeable. So spend some time perusing each website.

[ready2roam]

Thanks for all your input. I've done the recommended search. Think I'll be going with a 'dish' for HDTV and DirectTV.

Again thanks, you guys are great!

[94-Newmar]

AND if you have the room get a carry-out 18" dish and about 100' of coax as well. Mounted dishes are fine but it never fails that you find that "perfect" parking/camping spot and you have too many obstructions directly overhead to obtain any signal. The carry-out will save the day!