We have DirecTV with 3 receivers (1 Genie, 1 Mini and 1 Basic DVR). Third receiver only adds $6 per month plus taxes/fees. Choice programming package (175+channels) and no premium channels. Contract was for 24 months. Year 1 $72.84 per month, Year 2 $112.21 per month and if we continue after 24 months the price should be $128.07 per month until the next price increase. All prices quoted include all taxes and applicable fees. Pricing for most programming packages are scheduled to increase $4 per month plus tax as of January 28th (just received a notice today) if you are not under a contract.

We will be looking to either renegotiate or change providers at the end of 24 months. We currently have CenturyLink for our internet service but have not been impressed with their customer service. Three months into a 2 year contract and they have yet to get the first bill to show the correct amounts.

Just an update on my dealing with CenturyLink.......

After spending some more "quality" time on the phone with them, they were able to lower our monthly bill by almost 50% and are raising our internet speed up to 40Meg. The total cost is less than what we would have paid for DirectTV and internet through another provider.

Sometimes you gotta get lucky. They did tell me to call back in 12 months to renew our deal.

$51.00 for basic includes DVR for 4 shows recording at once. I switched from Dish which was twice as much

BRIGHTHOUSE has no contracts and great customer service.

DISH is better than DIRECT TV in my opinion but both get you into a 2 yr contract. If you just watch basic TV DISH has a $49 deal going.

Great. I was just going to post my experiences with CenturyLink. Every time my bill goes up, I never go into the local store to discuss with the local reps. They can't help.

I call the main Customer Service number and when I get a rep, I ask for the Retention department to solve a problem. Only the Retention department reps have the authority to reduce billing to save a customer.

For the last 4 years they have corrected my bill down to under $100 for their Prism Complete Package (very good package) and their high speed Internet. They always tell me to call back if the rates go up and they will reduce rates back down for me. Also, don't forget to tell them nicely, that you want to stay with them, but will not unless the rates are reduced. They will definitely help you.

All Cable companies are under great pressure to retain customers as the market is extremely competitive now. But if you don't speak up, rates will go up and they hope that you will stay on.

I was prepared to ask for the Retention department, but after I explained what I wanted to do and that I had already called once and was not satisfied, the rep put me on hold for 3 - 4 minutes. When she came back on she offered me everything we have now, with increased internet speed, for over $100/month less. While I was on hold I'm guessing she spoke with either a supervisor, or the Retention department. I was actually pretty surprised at the price she offered. Now we'll have to wait and see what the bill actually looks like. I did write down the date, time and the rep's name, just in case........