Freeview HD/Freesat HD deals discussion

Hi Lawrence
The link's not working for me - I get the message "Whoops! Sorry, you've landed on a page that doesn't exist!"

eenysmum wrote: »

Hi Lawrence
The link's not working for me - I get the message "Whoops! Sorry, you've landed on a page that doesn't exist!"

Correct URL should be:
http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/deals/cheap-HD-freeview-freesat

Not particularly cheap but Humax/Foxsat is considered by some to be the best.

The Foxsat recorder can be bought direct from their site for £199 (+£6.00 p&p)

or the Freesat Receiver for £89.95.

A lot cheaper than in the shops.

N.B that according to the website these are either ex display models, or refurbished returns all with a full guarantee.

Edit.
I've just seen both of these are mentioned in the MSE article.

350186 wrote: »

Does anyone actually have freeview HD?

I live in North Yorks and we not getting it until 2012, and my Dad in Kent also not until 2012.

MSE Site says "most areas rolled out", really?

Comments appreciated as I must be missing something?

Ma

I'm not holding my breath. I checked an area 30 mins outside London and that is getting freeview HD for 2 years. I think this thread is a bit early. At least the set top boxes should be dirt cheap by 2012. Although by then there will probably be a more advanced HD on the cards like HD on sterroids.

You can also consider Sky's Freesat service.

Please note - this is not a HD service - it's just a good money saving option for those with poor freeview reception and want to continue to use their sky box!

They hide it on their website, but you can find it here:
http://www.sky.com/shop/freesat/home/

Now, that site deals with completely new customers, but there's a deal to be had for anyone with a Sky dish and box already, and is out of contract.

There are two types of free channel broadcast by Sky - encrypted, and unencryped. Most of the main freeview channels are unencrypted, but there are exceptions (e.g. E4).

If you have already left Sky, or are considering it, I am told by a colleague that your existing Sky card will allow you to watch both unecrypted and encrypted channels for as long as that card is valid. Apparently, Sky very recently refreshed their cards, and that lasts an average of 3-4 years. So if out of contract now, ditch Sky, keep using your card, and hey-presto you're good for a few years.

They will also sell you a 'freesat' card for £25 (current price). It does the same as the above - lets you see all the free encrypted and unencrypted channels.

HOWEVER! Sky are a bit cheeky with this - that freesat card will also expire after a few years. Sky claim 'security reasons', and unfortunately, their T&Cs essentially say they will sell you the card but give you no guarentee on how long it will last. You should get a message to your box before it expires. If it does, you'll soon know. The freesat card will no doubt be more expensive in a few years time too - it was (until recently) only £20.


Pros: Keep using the Sky box you already know how to use, very low cost if you already have Sky and want to ditch.

Cons: 100s of channels that you cant view to flick through - make use of your boxes 'favourite' channel capability to help improve the experience! Have to refresh view card eventually. And no HD!!!

Word of caution: I have no idea how Sky+ services are impacted (i.e. can you still record shows).

Hope that helps some people!