SKY HD £29 + £30 Installation (currys instore) [Archive]

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 07:39

So can you just walk in and swap £29 for a box?

Just wondering if this is a good insurance plan for existing customers in case their current HD box goes pop. You'd have to go through a process to bind viewing card to new box, but I think that can happen over the phone so no call out charge.

I have read on a couple of forums that Sky (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=75) are getting somewhat savvy about pairing cards to new boxes as they are aware existing customers are exploiting the "pay once watch forever" deals that are being offered by Tesco (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=79) for NEW customers.

Rollocop

30-01-2009, 08:50

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 09:01

To be fair to Sky (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=75), they do offer the largest selection of HD channels of any UK broadcaster ( Virgin Media (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=350) has a measly one at present). It's not down to Sky (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=75) that there is a limited selection at present, the broadcasters need to start their own HD offerings. The likes of Discovery networks should be able to launch HD versions of their own channels given the amount of programs they make, surely there's a lot my HD output to be had.

SpaceCoyote

30-01-2009, 09:14

Details of the offer can be found here:

Sky HD £29 (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=5&url=http://www.currys.co.uk/martprd/editorial/sky)

"Existing customers must take multi-room" but then goes onto contradict itself, "Free standard set-up for new customers, or for existing customers taking Sky Multiroom (otherwise £30). Save £150 (was £199)."

Alan b

30-01-2009, 09:34

Details of the offer can be found here:

That link still says "when you buy a HD ready TV".

SpaceCoyote

30-01-2009, 09:47

Oh yeah :nuts:

I just read what I want to read.

derthballs

30-01-2009, 10:12

So would I be able to go into the shop, buy the box but delay the fitting/contract?

It's a good price for the box but, at the moment, Im not too happy with the number of channels being offered by Sky for the basic £9.75 pacakge.

Im sure they're going to add to it later on but, for the moment, Im holding back.

They have already added massively to it, theres over 20 HD channels now, it was questionable whether it was worth it when you got 2 movie channels, sky hd, and a few others, but its now well worth it.

MrSpeed

30-01-2009, 10:36

Anymore news yet on when/if they are going to drop the £10 monthly fee for having HD?

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 10:44

There's a press release (linked to by Skyuser.co.uk and DigitalSpy) that categorically states they will not be dropping the £10 fee - unlike the old Sky+ recording capability fee - you are actually getting a unique package of channels for your tenner - just like paying for "movies" or "variety" - that's why they changed the name of the fee to a bundle to emphasise you are paying for a channel bundle.

AdamBrunt

30-01-2009, 10:45

In the other, "Sky HD for £49", bargain thread there's a post saying one of the Sky bigwigs was on TV recently saying they were not going drop the £10pm anytime soon.

you are actually getting a unique package of channels for your tenner - just like paying for "movies" or "variety" - that's why they changed the name of the fee to a bundle to emphasise you are paying for a channel bundle.

Many would debate how much 'extra' you get on Sky Sports HD over Sky Sports (and similarly on Movies) to warrant the exta £10. The variety mix, IIRC, costs an extra £1 if you don't already have it and that adds a shedload of channels. Basically, how much 'extra' do you actually get for your £10 if you're already on the full package ?

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 11:01

They are unique in that these channels are not available in any other way other than having a SkyHD package.

The debate about the cost is a boring one...if you want HD channels, pay the subscription, if you don't like the cost, the SD version of the channels should suffice.

("you" is not aimed at an individual - it's just tiring to read this constant debate on several forums. Sky are in the business to make money - they lose money hand over fist on their boxes so their subs are the only way for them to recoup the losses on their boxes).

simonmac

30-01-2009, 11:13

Is there any benifit to having the SKYHD box over a normal SKY+ without paying the subs, does it have a bigger HDD etc, do you get the BBC HD channel?

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 11:18

This thread could do with merging with the other one...

The benefits are the HDMI port (which even for SD channels will look better than SCART), a larger HDD (300gig I think) plus access to FTA HD channels such as BBC HD, Channel 4 HD, Luxe.tv and ITVHD (when they finally kiss and make up with Sky).

Alan b

30-01-2009, 11:29

This thread could do with merging with the other one...

They are two different offers as far as I can see so they can remain separate threads for now.

AdamBrunt

30-01-2009, 11:32

The debate about the cost is a boring one...if you want HD channels, pay the subscription, if you don't like the cost, the SD version of the channels should suffice.

("you" is not aimed at an individual - it's just tiring to read this constant debate on several forums. Sky are in the business to make money - they lose money hand over fist on their boxes so their subs are the only way for them to recoup the losses on their boxes).

Don't get me wrong I am currently erring towards getting HD but ...

Let's say, for argument's sake (though I can imagine it's valid for large number of HD subscribers) that you're getting HD purely for Sky Sports HD. You're already paying £16pm for Sky Sports SD. As I understand it, Sky Sports HD shows the same content as Sky Sports SD (just with some of it in HD). You pay another £10pm for HD and so, sort of, you're now paying £26pm for SS1, SS2, SS3, SS1 HD, SS2 HD, SS3 HD (don't get me started on how SSN is not included in the Sports package !!!) - 3 of which you will no longer watch.

As I say, don't get me wrong I am not averse to paying it but how hard can it be to offer a Sports and a Sports HD package a Movies and a Movies HD package, etc, etc ?

dean richardson

30-01-2009, 11:41

how many hours of HD tv can it hold.
i have always resisted as i like to record the complete series of shows such as 24, ready to blitz watch

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 11:41

They are two different offers as far as I can see so they can remain separate threads for now.

The discussions is mostly surrounding the pro's/con's of Sky+HD - not the deals themselves, and the same questions are being asked in both threads. Just a suggestion anyhow...

Don't get me wrong I am currently erring towards getting HD but ...

Let's say, for argument's sake (though I can imagine it's valid for large number of HD subscribers) that you're getting HD purely for Sky Sports HD. You're already paying £16pm for Sky Sports SD. As I understand it, Sky Sports HD shows the same content as Sky Sports SD (just with some of it in HD). You pay another £10pm for HD and so, sort of, you're now paying £26pm for SS1, SS2, SS3, SS1 HD, SS2 HD, SS3 HD (don't get me started on how SSN is not included in the Sports package !!!) - 3 of which you will no longer watch.

As I say, don't get me wrong I am not averse to paying it but how hard can it be to offer a Sports and a Sports HD package a Movies and a Movies HD package, etc, etc ?

I agree there could be more flexibility with the HD package/pricing - at the moment it is of most value to those who subscribe to Sky World (i.e. all of the channels) as you get some mainstream HD channels, most of your movies and sports in HD.

What I don't agree with is some people expecting Sky to drop the charge altogether - why should they?

There is also the technical considerations - a HD channel can occupy 3-4 times the bandwidth of it's SD counterpart - in transmission terms that means they are able to output fewer number of channels per satellite transponder. Fewer channels per transponder means lower advertising revenue per transponder - so somebody needs to pay Astra/SES for the space on their satellites :dork:

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 11:45

how many hours of HD tv can it hold.
i have always resisted as i like to record the complete series of shows such as 24, ready to blitz watch

<strike>SkyHD = 300gb HDD, 160gb is available for use, the other 140gb is reserved for Anytime TV.

160gb is approximately 80 hours of HD TV (or more than enough space for an entire season of 24 from Sky1 HD).</strike>

Right let me try again.

A Sky+HD box has a 320gig HDD (300gig usable).
140gig of this is reserved for Anytime TV.
160gig is available for recording.

HD channels operate at anywhere between 10-15mbits so consume between 4 and 6gig an hour - so your recorder should be able to store between 27 and 40 hours of HD content (assuming the drive is filled exclusively with HD content).

SD content is much less, ranging from 2-4gig an hour depending upon the broadcaster (60-80 hours of SD exclusive content).

AdamBrunt

30-01-2009, 11:46

What I don't agree with is some people expecting Sky to drop the charge altogether - why should they?

Totally agree. I'd happily pay for more for Sky 1 HD, say, as long as I didn't have to pay for Sky 1 anymore.

allan young

30-01-2009, 11:51

SkyHD = 300gb HDD, 160gb is available for use, the other 140gb is reserved for Anytime TV.

160gb is approximately 80 hours of HD TV (or more than enough space for an entire season of 24 from Sky1 HD).

Are you sure about this ? When I recorded King Kong in HD it took up 19% of the available space.

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 11:56

Are you sure about this ? When I recorded King Kong in HD it took up 19% of the available space.

Assuming your HDD had nothing else on, you are suggesting that the film took 32gb of HDD space :thinking:

None of Sky's HD channels are running above 16mbit (16000kbps) so they use about 7gig per hour. Most are broadcast at rates less than 16mbit. In fact, the movie channels are only hitting around 10mbit so they use about 4.5gig/hour.

Think you've got confused with your figure of 19% but also my figure of 80 hours is more like 40 (4gig/hour).

EDIT: Post above amended but original content left in for reference.

wakey87433

30-01-2009, 11:57

The £10 fee puts me off taking these offers up. I could live with the £10 if it wasn't for the following issues

1) I don't think its fair that for my £10 I get less channels than another person paying the same £10 and get more than some others paying the same £10. I have the sports package but cant justify the movie package (I have usually bought or rented the movies long before Sky get them). Either the Movie and Sport channels should be available in HD to anyone subscribing to those packages without the £10 fee OR the £10 fee should get you these channels even if you don't subscribe to the packages

2) The mess when it comes to multiroom. For 2 HD boxes why should I pay £10 for Multiroom and then £10 each for HD on those boxes. Multiroom should allow me to have the HD channels on both boxes with a single HD sub

allan young

30-01-2009, 12:46

Assuming your HDD had nothing else on, you are suggesting that the film took 32gb of HDD space :thinking:

None of Sky's HD channels are running above 16mbit (16000kbps) so they use about 7gig per hour. Most are broadcast at rates less than 16mbit. In fact, the movie channels are only hitting around 10mbit so they use about 4.5gig/hour.

Think you've got confused with your figure of 19% but also my figure of 80 hours is more like 40 (4gig/hour).

EDIT: Post above amended but original content left in for reference.

I'm absolutely positive - it took up 19% of the hard drive and one of the Pirates Of The Caribbean films took up a similar amount.

This was two years ago though, I got rid of my HD box a while back. Have the HD boxes now got a bigger drive or maybe the bitrate has dropped ?

FlangeMonkey

30-01-2009, 12:50

<strike>SkyHD = 300gb HDD, 160gb is available for use, the other 140gb is reserved for Anytime TV.

160gb is approximately 80 hours of HD TV (or more than enough space for an entire season of 24 from Sky1 HD).</strike>

Right let me try again.

A Sky+HD box has a 320gig HDD (300gig usable).
140gig of this is reserved for Anytime TV.
160gig is available for recording.

HD channels operate at anywhere between 10-15mbits so consume between 4 and 6gig an hour - so your recorder should be able to store between 27 and 40 hours of HD content (assuming the drive is filled exclusively with HD content).

SD content is much less, ranging from 2-4gig an hour depending upon the broadcaster (60-80 hours of SD exclusive content).

Sky's own figures are quoted as 30hrs of HD or 80hrs of SD...

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 12:56

Sky's own figures are quoted as 30hrs of HD or 80hrs of SD...

Skys own figures are "ball-park" and do not take into consideration the change in bitrates as channels are added or removed from the transponder. There are plenty of sites on the internet which track the bandwidth of Sky's channels in realtime which give a true overview.

Anyhow - Sky's figures fall reasonably within the tolerances I calculated ;)

Philc

30-01-2009, 13:08

Assuming your HDD had nothing else on, you are suggesting that the film took 32gb of HDD space :thinking:

None of Sky's HD channels are running above 16mbit (16000kbps) so they use about 7gig per hour. Most are broadcast at rates less than 16mbit. In fact, the movie channels are only hitting around 10mbit so they use about 4.5gig/hour.

Think you've got confused with your figure of 19% but also my figure of 80 hours is more like 40 (4gig/hour).

EDIT: Post above amended but original content left in for reference.

Sounds about right by the time it gets to the STB. It's stored on the servers are 50-78Mbps.

cervaro

30-01-2009, 13:12

Sky will undoubtedly drop the HD pack charge at some point, as they did with the Sky + recording charge (also originally £10/month). The question of course is when?

Philc

30-01-2009, 13:24

But they only dropped the 10month charge for subscription customers.

I currently have a standard sky box with FTA card so I can get all the usual Freeview chans (E4, More 4 etc...) in conjunction with a Tivo which is fine for me, recently the Sky box packed up so i was considering buying a cheap used Sky+ box but I called sky to ask them about unlocking the PVR function and they said they wasnted 9.75 a month just for that feature.

I can't see them dropping the tenner for Sky HD at all as it's a channel package/bundle as has been said on this thread a few times and it's not just a PVR unlock charge.

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 13:25

Sounds about right by the time it gets to the STB. It's stored on the servers are 50-78Mbps.

Which part? The 32gig for a film? Absolutely no chance it is broadcast at anywhere near that rate. Divide it by 2 then you're closer. Unless I am confused with my bits and bytes again. Or you were referring to my calculations...oh I dunno. Been a long day...

Philc

30-01-2009, 13:27

What I don't agree with is some people expecting Sky to drop the charge altogether - why should they?

There is also the technical considerations - a HD channel can occupy 3-4 times the bandwidth of it's SD counterpart - in transmission terms that means they are able to output fewer number of channels per satellite transponder. Fewer channels per transponder means lower advertising revenue per transponder - so somebody needs to pay Astra/SES for the space on their satellites :dork:

And if people knew how much sky have spent on their HD equipment at both Osterley and Chilworth they would soon realise what the charge is for.

Philc

30-01-2009, 13:30

Which part? The 32gig for a film? Absolutely no chance it is broadcast at anywhere near that rate. Divide it by 2 then you're closer.

No the part way before it hits your STB. Sky use Harris automation for playout form Omneon servers. Ingest from VTR to Omneon at anywhere between 50-78Mbps dependent on content. So by the time it hits the H264 stream it's been crushed by about 5:1 :lol:

You should see how good the HD looks on our servers before it gets to your screen, one reason why I ain't rushing to get HD is because I know how poor it looks by the time it gets to the end user.

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 13:31

Right that makes sense!

So you should be able to confirm that a single film from Sky HD should not come anywhere near 32gig then!

Philc

30-01-2009, 13:40

Lemme do the math on the server side.

50Mbps with 8 channel audio (you have to take Audio and Bitrate into account too) 24bit wav = 6.5MBytes/sec

average film at 2hrs say = 6.5MBytes x 7200 = 46800 MB = 45.7GB (approx)

That's 45Gig on the server with a 50Mbps compression rate. So you can factor about 4:1 compression further to H264 I reckon so about 11Gig per 2hr movie.

Does that tie in with what you are saying?

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 13:45

Well my calcs didn't include audio - my video calculation was 9gig/2 hours so with audio it's roughly the same as you're quoting so :thumbs:

I am using client side statistics, so the geeks who constantly monitor every aspect of Sky's transmissions for changes - and they all report the top HD channel as being BBC HD (16mbits/sec) with the movie channels coming in anywhere between a **** poor 9 and a more respectable 15.

Philc

30-01-2009, 13:58

Yep BBC use a higher bitrate at 78mbps from memory. All on Omneon servers at MPEG-2 1080i.

tizza

30-01-2009, 16:46

Back to what the thread was originally about- is it confirmed that this is £29 instore WITHOUT having to buy a HD tv? Or did the OP misread the signs?

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 17:34

Why not click through the link and read it for yourself :nuts:

Alan b

30-01-2009, 17:42

Why not click through the link and read it for yourself :nuts:

As I said earlier the link still says that you need to buy a HD ready TV so can any confirm for sure ?

tizza

30-01-2009, 17:53

Why not click through the link and read it for yourself :nuts:

I did, it says you need to buy a telly. The thread states they are selling them instore without having to buy a telly. What part dont you understand?

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 17:54

I'm sorry...you're having a go at me because you couldn't be arsed to read the thread? Score! :nuts:

Alan has twice mentioned the advert states you MUST buy a HD TV to be eligible for the offer. The other thread you are posting in is a much better deal if you already have said TV :thumbs:

tizza

30-01-2009, 18:00

Stop being an arse, as for having a go what about your comment. Wait til you want any info, Il be first there with a snide comment.

So when I go to currys tommorow its 29 quid no telly purchase right?

tizza

30-01-2009, 18:02

Whilst walking past Currys in the Whiterose centre in Leeds I noticed sky HD was £29 instore, It used to be this price when bought with a new TV but a note on the sign said it was now available to all.

I think the install is free to new customers and £30 to existing ones.

:?:

That link still says "when you buy a HD ready TV".

:?::?:

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 18:05

Maybe it's an instore promotion then. Best to call the store closest to you and find out their policy. DSG are probably trying to bolster their sales quotas with Sky (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=75) given neither company are performing too well at present.

tizza

30-01-2009, 18:09

When you buy a HD ready TV, *take the HD pack and join or stay with Sky TV for another year - existing Sky customers must take Sky Multiroom. Free standard set-up for new customers, or for existing customers taking Sky Multiroom (otherwise £30). Save £170 (was £199).

*Is this and/or?

all I wanted was confirmation of anyone buying it, was that too much to ask:D

DJBenson

30-01-2009, 18:11

Yes :p I've been flitting in and out of the two threads all day answering stuff - my head is hurting :eek:

The answer you are looking for is probably only going to be given by your local store. These deals are often local or regional rather than national.

I read the above as

Buy TV + Take HD Pack + Sky Subscription (New Customer with Free Install) or
Buy TV + Take HD Pack + Multiroom Subscription (Existing Customer with Free Install) or
Buy TV + Takr HD Pack (Existing Customer, £30 install)

p.s. I've had a go at answering your questions in the other thread too ;)

Bellmeister

30-01-2009, 20:09

That link still says "when you buy a HD ready TV".

Yeah the link on the site does still say that. In the shop window though they had a stand with a bit added on saying 'now open to all customers, no need to buy a HD TV'

But the terms and conditions are the same as the website.

So to clarify. Currys in the Whiterose centre LEEDS says you DO NOT have to buy a TV to be able to buy the sky HD package.

I don't know if it is nationwide though.

bonytony

31-01-2009, 11:42

Yeah the link on the site does still say that. In the shop window though they had a stand with a bit added on saying 'now open to all customers, no need to buy a HD TV'

But the terms and conditions are the same as the website.

So to clarify. Currys in the Whiterose centre LEEDS says you DO NOT have to buy a TV to be able to buy the sky HD package.

I don't know if it is nationwide though.

Huddersfield store has the same board also stating you do not need to buy a TV anymore :thumbs:

.

tizza

31-01-2009, 12:34

jester

31-01-2009, 13:26

I think thats what everyone is hpoing for but cannot see $ky giving the boxes away for nearly nothing without a minumum rakeback.

DJBenson

31-01-2009, 13:34

So..(djbenson :p) if I get this, I still have to subcribe to sky hd for min 12 month yeh?

Im scared to read the link properly cos then Ill want one, but I cant afford it.

Cant I just buy the box then get the free card they send you?

Buy it! Buy it! :p

Can't wait until Wednesday to have ours installed. Will be good to have the other box in the bedroom too...means I can watch films whilst she watches Frasier or something...

Philc

31-01-2009, 18:40

Radiohead

31-01-2009, 20:01

A question - does my existing Sky+ box belong to me? I've got HD arriving Wednesday and want to be sure the monkey doesn't take it with him.....

DJBenson

31-01-2009, 20:04

Absolutely. It does however depend upon how long you've had said box as to how it should be treated. If it's inside 12 months then it would need to remain as an active box along side the second box, if it's outside of this, it's up to you what you do with it - and I presume you will be replacing the Sky+ box with the Sky+HD box.

Either way - the box is yours.

Radiohead

31-01-2009, 21:39

Cheers DJ - I've had it about 3 years now so no problem there and I'm replacing it with the HD box, yes.

Philc

31-01-2009, 22:07

Kryten

01-02-2009, 08:40

For those of you considering this, at the moment there is a 3 Month wait list for the upgrade! Not sure about new customers though.

Radiohead

01-02-2009, 08:58

Odd, I registered for it last week. Got an email the next day for installation and it's booked for this week (Wednesday).

Bapapapa

01-02-2009, 09:27

Went into Currys today to see what the deal was and am also in the market for a new tv. Whilst there I spotted a deal on a display model Panasonic 37" TX-LXD85 so have reserved for collation tomorrow and will also be signing up for Sky HD with the HD pack at 9.75 a month. So yes, it's only for sales with HD sets at the moment.
Wow.. you've fussed about for ages trying to decide which HDTV to get yet you end up going for a Currys ex-display model that prolly has 3 billion hours on it..? :thinking:

rst

01-02-2009, 09:59

For those of you considering this, at the moment there is a 3 Month wait list for the upgrade! Not sure about new customers though.

3 weeks for new customers according to the site, booked mine in for the 18th Feb.

DJBenson

01-02-2009, 11:58

DJ, do you know how to get on with communal dishes and SKy HD, I assume either a twin or quad LNB is required?

Standard box here and the guy down stair has Sky+ . I have seen the cupbaord where there is some sort of multiplexor in for H and V phase output, maybe one per LNB?

Not sure about the multiplexor thing, but if there are two people sharing the communal dish (you and your neighbour) then you would need 2 LNB outputs per Sky+ or Sky+HD box, so at minimum a quad LNB. Not had any experience with this type of installation I'm afraid.

For those of you considering this, at the moment there is a 3 Month wait list for the upgrade! Not sure about new customers though.

It must have taken off pretty quickly! Glad I got in early :D Providing the snow holds off, ours should be done this wednesday.

Kryten

01-02-2009, 12:09

Well I do not even have a HDTV yet :D They are going to offer me multi-room for just under a fiver a month too as I do not have the movies or sports (Multiroom lite it is called). They made a note on my account so that I will be able to get that when they finally have a HD box for me.

DJBenson

01-02-2009, 12:24

I took the plunge yesterday and ordered a 42" Samsung Plasma to replace my 32" Samsung Truflat HD CRT (I dunno if you've seen these, they are small profile CRT's with HD capability, 1080i via Component or HDMI, but the geometry is diabolical, it's most evident on the Windows desktop which has straight edges, well on my current set they are most certainly not straight :eek:). Should be a good week for HDTV :D

Done pretty well to get a blu-ray player, Sky+, then Sky+HD, then a new TV passed the other half without much trouble. Just need a receiver to pump it all through now.

Philc

01-02-2009, 16:20

Wow.. you've fussed about for ages trying to decide which HDTV to get yet you end up going for a Currys ex-display model that prolly has 3 billion hours on it..? :thinking:

Fussed? I took my time because I wanted to get a decent replacement for my CRT.

This one has been in store for 2 weeks max, I've been keeping an eye on it and it's had no more than 2 weeks use so nothing in it really and at the price I can't go wrong.

Anyway as usual Sky have wriggled out of this one because it's a communal dish etc.. and now I have been contacted by isat (??) who have sold me a new HD box for 49 with free install so it's actually cheaper than the 29 +30 install from Sky.

Also you have to sign up to one of the Variety packs to get the HD equivalent pack. 25 notes then a month minimum which is a bit annoything but.

Redondo16

03-02-2009, 08:19

Hi,
Sorry i'm probably going to annoy alot of peope by asking 'basic' questions - but here goes.

1. Do i have to have a BT phone line to have sky+HD (i currently have old school regular sky, SD and not sky+ so dont use a phone line).

2. I've read post about people using old boxes once they have upgraded to form their multi room set-up, will this cost me more? Will the instation engineer set this up?

Thanks
Paul

JamesK

03-02-2009, 08:24

1 - you tend to need one, you can pay a fee and not use aphone line instead (think the fee is around £100????).

2 - you'd have to pay for "multiroom". Normally installation is free, but it's £10 per month extra.:)

Radiohead

03-02-2009, 08:25

My installation is booked for tomorrow but I'm not expecting it to happen due to the weather....

DJBenson

03-02-2009, 10:17

Hi,
Sorry i'm probably going to annoy alot of peope by asking 'basic' questions - but here goes.

1. Do i have to have a BT phone line to have sky+HD (i currently have old school regular sky, SD and not sky+ so dont use a phone line).

A fixed phone line is required during the first 12 months of a new installation as you receive a discount on the cost of the box which is offset by signing an "Interactive Discount Agreement". You can buy your way out of this for £25 (not £100).

2. I've read post about people using old boxes once they have upgraded to form their multi room set-up, will this cost me more? Will the instation engineer set this up?

Thanks
Paul

The engineer would do this for you, but it is a requirement that a second box is permanently connected to a phone line if you wish to mirror your existing subscription. This is an anti-fraud measure meant to stop people getting the full package on the first box and then paying a tenner for the same on the second and then installing the other box in a second property, taking it abroad or lending it to their mates. Unlike the requirement in point 1 - this one is strictly enforced - ignoring it will result in a letter, a phone call, then an increase in your bill from £10 for the multiroom subscription to the cost of your full subscription (anything upto £46 depending upon what you subscribe to on your main box).

Without a fixed phone line, you will not be able to get multiroom - you will however be able to make use of the free to air channels, but Sky+ recording features will be disabled as they are tied to an active subscription on the same card.

Only option is to have a phone line installed - BT or Sky will assist you with this, however it doesn't have to be a BT line. If you have cable in the area, Virgin could also supply the line.

AdamBrunt

03-02-2009, 10:32

My installation is booked for tomorrow but I'm not expecting it to happen due to the weather....

If you're already on Sky+ then as long as the weather doesn't stop the van turning up you'll be fine.

DJBenson

03-02-2009, 10:43

Fingers crossed. Mines tomorrow too. Weather has cleared for now, but the forecast for later is looking dodgy.

Our install will be connecting cable to the LNB, lobbing it over the roof, drilling the hole into the bedroom and connecting it all up. Not complicated but if the weather is crap I wouldn't like to be doing it.

shy1807

03-02-2009, 10:57

Is this currently the best offer for existing customers with Sky+ (with no multiroom package)?

Redondo16

03-02-2009, 11:23

A fixed phone line is required during the first 12 months of a new installation as you receive a discount on the cost of the box which is offset by signing an "Interactive Discount Agreement". You can buy your way out of this for £25 (not £100).

The engineer would do this for you, but it is a requirement that a second box is permanently connected to a phone line if you wish to mirror your existing subscription. This is an anti-fraud measure meant to stop people getting the full package on the first box and then paying a tenner for the same on the second and then installing the other box in a second property, taking it abroad or lending it to their mates. Unlike the requirement in point 1 - this one is strictly enforced - ignoring it will result in a letter, a phone call, then an increase in your bill from £10 for the multiroom subscription to the cost of your full subscription (anything upto £46 depending upon what you subscribe to on your main box).

Without a fixed phone line, you will not be able to get multiroom - you will however be able to make use of the free to air channels, but Sky+ recording features will be disabled as they are tied to an active subscription on the same card.

Only option is to have a phone line installed - BT or Sky will assist you with this, however it doesn't have to be a BT line. If you have cable in the area, Virgin could also supply the line.

Thanks for the Info guys :) Much appriciated

AdamBrunt

03-02-2009, 11:30

It looks like it but I don't think it's been clarified if the "when bought with an HD TV" condition is being enforced or not.

billyflem

03-02-2009, 13:54

Ordered today and getting installed on Friday,I've been a sky customer for years.
So no hold up with installations.

riz1

03-02-2009, 14:58

Seems you can't order this [or the £49 offer] without paying the £10pm for the HD Pack [ie for the HDMI interface/better SD quality and a sneaky way of getting Sky+ cheaper]:
Sky+HD: Sky Movies/Sports HD channels depend on your Sky TV package. Sky+HD box £49 when you take the HD Pack and Sky TV and existing customers sign up to another 12 month minimum term for Sky TV. One £49 box per household and not available if you already have SkyHD/Sky+HD box. Sky+HD box price £199 for customers not eligible for £49 box price (Sky TV and HD Pack subscriptions required). HD ready TV required.

tizza

03-02-2009, 16:59

Does it have to be a BT line these things are connected to?
I have virgin.

Philc

03-02-2009, 17:30

DJBenson

03-02-2009, 19:21

Does it have to be a BT line these things are connected to?
I have virgin.

Hopefully you haven't got me on your ignore list, no, it doesn't have to be a BT line. Any fixed landline will do :thumbs:

03-02-2009, 19:25

Since when? I always thought it had to be BT (as in copper).

Shakey21

03-02-2009, 20:55

I've been a sky customer since about 2000 with an NTL (now Virgin) phone line througout.

Kryten

04-02-2009, 04:39

Mine has changed to 2-4 weeks now :clap:

04-02-2009, 08:16

I've been a sky customer since about 2000 with an NTL (now Virgin) phone line througout.

Actually... You are correct. I had NTL at my last house, lol.

DJBenson

04-02-2009, 08:31

Since when? I always thought it had to be BT (as in copper).

Virgin's network is as much copper as BT is, the "last mile" tends to be copper (i.e. from the exchange/green box to your house) the remainder is often fibre.

Since forever. :thumbs: I had it installed when they first launched it, and at the time we had a Telewest phone line installed.

Can be done with VOIP lines too, depending upon the compression used on the VOIP adapter...but that's for another day. :)

04-02-2009, 09:00

See post above

Radiohead

04-02-2009, 09:03

Just had a call from the installer - due between 12-3pm today.

neen_ray

04-02-2009, 10:07

Can u get sky talk and broadband with a virgin media land line?

DJBenson

04-02-2009, 10:29

No - that has to be a BT line.

Philc

04-02-2009, 11:06

Mine has changed to 2-4 weeks now :clap:

2-4 weeks foe what?

I called on Monday night and they are coming on Saturday!!!!

Kryten

04-02-2009, 11:25

Upgrade not new install, this is how long they say it will be until I get the upgrade from Sky+, I have none of hte added channel packs other than all the entertainment ones (no movies or sports) so maybe that puts me down the list too?

Philc

04-02-2009, 11:27

Doubt it, I am going for Variety pack and childrens pack plus HD pack so no sport or movies for me.

I am an existing standard customer (well got a freeview card and box already at home but no subs) I think the difference here is that it's a level 2 engineer coming out as there may well be LNB work required on the block.

Kryten

04-02-2009, 12:49

You are not an existing customer though, you do not pay a subscription so are classed as a new customer so get priority!

DJBenson

04-02-2009, 14:30

Had ours installed today - brand new box in a branded carton (as opposed to a brown-box refurb). Engineer was really good, took him about 30 minutes to move the old box to the bedroom, run a new cable, and get us up and running.

The SD channels on Sky+HD look really good upscaled, much better than via SCART. The HD channels, especially BBC HD, are breathtaking.

Radiohead

04-02-2009, 14:31

I'm an existing customer - phoned last Friday, installed today. Brand new box in a branded box as well. The HD channels are very impressive it has to be said. Lost and 24 should be good this week.

Just had HD installed and all works fine bar setting the Sky remote to control my amp. On my old Sky+ SD remote I had it set to control the amp's volume etc. It's an RX-V1400RDS Yamaha and I've tried both 0204 and 1304 but neither seem to work.

It's a Rev8 remote - any suggestions for another code to try?

Kryten

04-02-2009, 14:40

Hmm, I really hope it can be setup top control a Yamaha amp as I have mine setup to do so! Can I use the old Sky+ remote with SkyHD?

Radiohead

04-02-2009, 14:52

Yes, that appears to work ok - although the newer one is a nicer shape in the hand (gayness!)

Philc

04-02-2009, 17:28

Glad you all like, got mine on Saturday so will hope to get branded box and it will look nice on the brand spanking Panasonic LCD screen.

Radiohead

04-02-2009, 19:46

Hmm, I really hope it can be setup top control a Yamaha amp as I have mine setup to do so! Can I use the old Sky+ remote with SkyHD?

Sorted

If your Sky+ remote is fairly new or you have the Sky Navigator remote it may be possible to set the normal volume/mute controls to work your amp rather than the TV. And without pressing the TV key!

Proceed as follows

1. Program the remote as detailed above to control your amp using the arrow keys in TV mode.

2. Press TV Key

3. Hold down select and press 1 until the remote's LED flashes twice (if it only flashes once or remains on steady I'm afraid your remote does not support this feature).

4. Press Sky key and enjoy.

To reverse the process press select and 2 rather than 1.

You can also programme the normal TV code in, so now the Sky remote is controlling the Sky HD box, the TV and the amp volume.

Kryten

05-02-2009, 04:37

That is how I have my Sky+ setup, no need to press the TV button. I am hopign when I finally get HD I can do them same so will give it a go.

Kryten

05-02-2009, 06:13

I have started an Official SkyHD thread and FAQ here for any questions that people may have. hopefully we can get some really useful information in there

Bellmeister

05-02-2009, 20:19

It's not worth doing in fact it's a joke.

The deal here is 29 notes + 30 for installation.

Go direct with Sky (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=75) and get box for 49 notes and free install and 50 notes worth of MandS vouchers, plus HD pack free for first month.

Thats fine if you're new to sky but for existing users not wanting the multiroom it's £49 + £30 install. So Currys is actually a better offer in that case.

Thats what I found when I actually looked on skys site.

Kryten

28-02-2009, 08:32

Yes, that appears to work ok - although the newer one is a nicer shape in the hand (gayness!)

Mine was just installed today (from the regular offer not this one), got my Yamaha amp to work with 0204 code but using this method:

If your Sky+ remote is fairly new or you have the Sky Navigator remote it may be possible to set the normal volume/mute controls to work your amp rather than the TV. And without pressing the TV key!

Proceed as follows

1. Program the remote as detailed above to control your amp using the arrow keys in TV mode.

2. Press TV Key

3. Hold down select and press 1 until the remote's LED flashes twice (if it only flashes once or remains on steady I'm afraid your remote does not support this feature).

4. Press Sky key and enjoy.

The other method is press 0 not 1 and did not work (accepted the code but did nothing). Pressing 1 instead worked first time :thumbs:

Mr VCD

28-02-2009, 17:57

cervaro

01-03-2009, 03:40

Sky were meant to install my system on Friday gone, but some H&S woman stopped them because she reckoned it was too high for them, even though they could have sited the dish just above a neighbours dish on the 1st floor! Having to get an independent installer to do the work now, as apparently they're allowed to have some balls to do the job at a greater height than Sky allow!

Narked as I lose my M&S vouchers and referral cash due to Sky not fulfilling the order as booked. Going to complain for what it's worth, as the engineers would have done the job had the cowardly H&S woman not stopped them! :oh-hum:

At least the local independent installers have guaranteed I will get a brand new box when they come to do the work in the next 1-2 weeks. :)

DJBenson

01-03-2009, 09:43

Well I hav'nt seen it mentioned yet but has the issue of the sky hd's HDMI port frying your tv's (or amps) hardware after a while been sorted yet?? The safe route to sky hd was getting hold of a component out box last time I looked into it all :(

Not something I've heard of personally, and the chances of getting a component-enabled box now are very slim, they were pulled due to "piracy" concerns :cuckoo:

cervaro

01-03-2009, 10:09

I've still got a recon HD box with component out. Hoping to put in the bedroom once my new kit is installed. Will need a free channels viewing card though.

Help

01-03-2009, 11:27

Can I ask here what are people's views on getting Sky HD if you don't have sports or movies? I fancy getting it but not sure the £10pm is worth it for stuff on Sky One and FX.

DJBenson

01-03-2009, 12:59

Can I ask here what are people's views on getting Sky HD if you don't have sports or movies? I fancy getting it but not sure the £10pm is worth it for stuff on Sky One and FX.

I would agree (from my viewing habits) that without movies and/or sports, the HD pack is not worth it. We tend to watch (aside from all movies in HD), BBC HD (which is free without a viewing card), Channel 4 HD (which is free with a viewing card) and a little bit of MTVN HD. Haven't really watched much else on the HD pack, maybe the odd National Geographic programme from Anytime TV.

If we decide to dump the movies then the HD pack will go with it.

I really like MTVN HD as it is almost 100% music at present, like MTV used to be in the old days, except with nicely upscaled videos.