[saden1]

Originally Posted by GMScud

I recently found out through a friend that these cable/satellite providers have a ton of leeway in what they charge monthly. My buddy called Comcast because he was tired of paying his large monthly bill (4 HD DVR's, bundled with internet and phone), and was considering other options. He basically lied and told them he found a much better deal elsewhere, and unless Comcast could at least match it, he was leaving. The guy put him on hold for a few minutes, and came back and offered him a monthly rate nearly 20% less than he had been paying.

I had a bit of an ethical issue doing this myself. I didn't want to call Comcast and just flat out lie to save a buck. But I was tempted. So I poked around, and actually did find a provider (RCN) who offered me a SLIGHTLY lower rate for the same service. So I called Comcast and tried his play. I didn't tell them what RCN would save me (a hair over $10/month), just that I found a better deal. Same thing happened. They put me on hold, and came back with a deal that chopped about 20% off my monthly bill. HA!

Anyway, as far as DirecTV goes, they are way superior to Comcast as far as hardware and customer service. I used to have my Comcast services included in my rental payment. Not anymore. But I really don't have a need for Sunday Ticket since I get the Red Zone Channel on Comcast and all the Skins games are local. Truth be told, I'd still prefer DirecTV, but I don't feel like dealing with changing accounts, switching hardware, having the satellite installed, etc.

I straight up call and tell them $133 a month for cable and internet is unacceptable, I then tell them there are two options....a) I cancel the cable or b) they reduce my bill back down to $85. Summer time and early winter is the best time to do this...ain't shit on and they know it.