M
mike704
Guest
DirecTV is dumping "Music Choice" and going with XM Radio for their music channels starting 11-15-05. Any comments?
-
Get involved.
We want your input!
Apply for Membership and join the conversations about everything related to broadcasting.
After we receive your registration, a moderator will review it. After your registration is approved, you will be permitted to post.
If you use a disposable or false email address, your registration will be rejected.
After your membership is approved, please take a minute to tell us a little bit about yourself.
https://www.radiodiscussions.com/forums/introduce-yourself.1088/
Thanks in advance and have fun!
RadioDiscussions Administrators
You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly.
You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.
You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.
C
Chase11
Guest
This is Nice
although I don't know much about it but Iam enjoying it.
in fact I have it on as Iam typing this.
although I don't know much about it but Iam enjoying it.
in fact I have it on as Iam typing this.
K
KMRichards
Guest
> DirecTV is dumping "Music Choice" and going with XM Radio
> for their music channels starting 11-15-05. Any comments?
First, I loved Music Choice. So it's going to be hard for me to shake a bias in favor of them when comparing the services.
Second, the XM channel names are not very descriptive, in many cases, of the channel content. With the obvious exception of "The 80s" or "XM Country", it's not always clear what I should be punching up.
Third, there are PROMOS for other XM channels, where Music Choice was pure music. If I want something interrupting my music, I'll turn on the radio. This is likely to make me switch to my CDs more.
Third-and-a-half, the promos refer to XM channel numbers, which make them meaningless to me on my DirecTV receiver. Even if something they promoted interested me, I still wouldn't know where to find it. (Big stupid move.)
Fourth, there is NO direct replacement for my former favorite Music Choice channel, Retro-Active. "Lucy" is close, but not on the mark; what I liked was the new wave/modern rock-focused channel and there is too much 90s grunge/alternative on "Lucy".
Fifth, DirecTV didn't even do the intelligent thing and put the XM channels on the same channels as the Music Choice channels they replaced. "Lucy" should have been on 814 (Retro-Active's old channel) so I wouldn't have had to go look for it, jangling my nerves in the process as I encountered channels that annoy me. I had all the Music Choice channels I didn't want programmed out of my "Custom Stations" configuration and now I have to put all the XM channels in there until I can figure out which ones I really want. Even Radio Disney, the one service that both Music Choice and XM carry, has gotten moved to a different DirectTV channel. Not smart.
Sixth (and this is laughable), so far the song titles on the screen have not matched up with what's on the audio track most of the time.
This move hammered a few more nails in DirecTV's coffin for me; it is only a matter of time before I cancel my service altogether, having already cancelled all my premium channels because the value was not there (for those not in the know, DirecTV does not carry all the multicast channels of HBO/Cinemax/Showtime/TMC/Starz/Encore, while Dish does). They have been going downhill for me ever since they cancelled Trio.
However, this does make it clear to me that I likely don't want to subscribe to XM. That's probably the opposite of what XM is hoping with this partnership, but they should have known that it cuts both ways.<P ID="signature">______________
</P>
> for their music channels starting 11-15-05. Any comments?
First, I loved Music Choice. So it's going to be hard for me to shake a bias in favor of them when comparing the services.
Second, the XM channel names are not very descriptive, in many cases, of the channel content. With the obvious exception of "The 80s" or "XM Country", it's not always clear what I should be punching up.
Third, there are PROMOS for other XM channels, where Music Choice was pure music. If I want something interrupting my music, I'll turn on the radio. This is likely to make me switch to my CDs more.
Third-and-a-half, the promos refer to XM channel numbers, which make them meaningless to me on my DirecTV receiver. Even if something they promoted interested me, I still wouldn't know where to find it. (Big stupid move.)
Fourth, there is NO direct replacement for my former favorite Music Choice channel, Retro-Active. "Lucy" is close, but not on the mark; what I liked was the new wave/modern rock-focused channel and there is too much 90s grunge/alternative on "Lucy".
Fifth, DirecTV didn't even do the intelligent thing and put the XM channels on the same channels as the Music Choice channels they replaced. "Lucy" should have been on 814 (Retro-Active's old channel) so I wouldn't have had to go look for it, jangling my nerves in the process as I encountered channels that annoy me. I had all the Music Choice channels I didn't want programmed out of my "Custom Stations" configuration and now I have to put all the XM channels in there until I can figure out which ones I really want. Even Radio Disney, the one service that both Music Choice and XM carry, has gotten moved to a different DirectTV channel. Not smart.
Sixth (and this is laughable), so far the song titles on the screen have not matched up with what's on the audio track most of the time.
This move hammered a few more nails in DirecTV's coffin for me; it is only a matter of time before I cancel my service altogether, having already cancelled all my premium channels because the value was not there (for those not in the know, DirecTV does not carry all the multicast channels of HBO/Cinemax/Showtime/TMC/Starz/Encore, while Dish does). They have been going downhill for me ever since they cancelled Trio.
However, this does make it clear to me that I likely don't want to subscribe to XM. That's probably the opposite of what XM is hoping with this partnership, but they should have known that it cuts both ways.<P ID="signature">______________
</P>
M
mike704
Guest
> This is Nice
>
> although I don't know much about it but Iam enjoying it.
>
>
> in fact I have it on as Iam typing this.
>
I like it so far. The jocks liven up the 50's and 60's channels but I can see where some would just rather hear the music.
I think they missed the mark on the '50's channel. I know what they are trying to do but they are missing the mark. They play a lot of stuff that's not '50's based. The '50's was more than just rock and roll.
Mike
>
> although I don't know much about it but Iam enjoying it.
>
>
> in fact I have it on as Iam typing this.
>
I like it so far. The jocks liven up the 50's and 60's channels but I can see where some would just rather hear the music.
I think they missed the mark on the '50's channel. I know what they are trying to do but they are missing the mark. They play a lot of stuff that's not '50's based. The '50's was more than just rock and roll.
Mike
M
mike704
Guest
You make some good points.
> First, I loved Music Choice. So it's going to be hard for
> me to shake a bias in favor of them when comparing the
> services.
I was not a big fan of Music Choice but I thought they were okay. The processing on the '60's Channel was weak, it never had much punch to it. My other channel of choice the Smooth Jazz channel was uneven sometimes they played a lot of music I liked but most times they didn't. The mix seemed very uneven. When I have listened in the store Watercolors seemed like a better smooth jazz channel.
> Second, the XM channel names are not very descriptive, in
> many cases, of the channel content. With the obvious
> exception of "The 80s" or "XM Country", it's not always
> clear what I should be punching up.
I think that will not be an issue as people get used to it.
> Third, there are PROMOS for other XM channels, where Music
> Choice was pure music. If I want something interrupting my
> music, I'll turn on the radio. This is likely to make me
> switch to my CDs more.
Good point.
> Third-and-a-half, the promos refer to XM channel numbers,
> which make them meaningless to me on my DirecTV receiver.
> Even if something they promoted interested me, I still
> wouldn't know where to find it. (Big stupid move.)
I think there is a guide somewhere, they might start giving out the DirecTV numbers in time but since their core business is the satellite subs I'm not sure.
> Fourth, there is NO direct replacement for my former
> favorite Music Choice channel, Retro-Active. "Lucy" is
> close, but not on the mark; what I liked was the new
> wave/modern rock-focused channel and there is too much 90s
> grunge/alternative on "Lucy".
For me there are far too many Metal and Hip Hop channels. I would like to see something along the lines of a 50's 60's middle of the road music station but fat chance of that ever happening. Like you say about Retro-Active some come close but not quite.
> Fifth, DirecTV didn't even do the intelligent thing and put
> the XM channels on the same channels as the Music Choice
> channels they replaced. "Lucy" should have been on 814
> (Retro-Active's old channel) so I wouldn't have had to go
> look for it, jangling my nerves in the process as I
> encountered channels that annoy me. I had all the Music
> Choice channels I didn't want programmed out of my "Custom
> Stations" configuration and now I have to put all the XM
> channels in there until I can figure out which ones I really
> want. Even Radio Disney, the one service that both Music
> Choice and XM carry, has gotten moved to a different
> DirectTV channel. Not smart.
Change is difficult. Maybe they wanted to match the order of channels on the XM radios?
>
> Sixth (and this is laughable), so far the song titles on the
> screen have not matched up with what's on the audio track
> most of the time.
Bugs, I'm not surprised. Looking at it this afternoon it looks like they worked it out.
> This move hammered a few more nails in DirecTV's coffin for
> me; it is only a matter of time before I cancel my service
> altogether, having already cancelled all my premium channels
> because the value was not there (for those not in the know,
> DirecTV does not carry all the multicast channels of
> HBO/Cinemax/Showtime/TMC/Starz/Encore, while Dish does).
> They have been going downhill for me ever since they
> cancelled Trio.
I agree with you, I thought Trio really added something special. Then there was the change from TechTV to G4 which I realize DirecTV had nothing to do with. If not for the crummy over the air reception I get and the fact I have a DirecTiVo I wouldn't miss DirecTV.
> However, this does make it clear to me that I likely don't
> want to subscribe to XM. That's probably the opposite of
> what XM is hoping with this partnership, but they should
> have known that it cuts both ways.
Good point, so far I have no overwhelming urge to go out and buy XM and start paying for radio. I have my iPod and lots of music of varied formats.
Actually I see it hurting XM more than helping because if you wanted to have XM at home now you don't need to buy anything. I do like some of the specials but I have to hope that I remember to tune in. They are going to have an exclusive with McCartney on his new CD.
I keep thinking if I was a truck driver or someone who spent a lot of time on the road satellite radio might make sense but right now there are way too many companies who want a slice of my paycheck!
MikeM
> First, I loved Music Choice. So it's going to be hard for
> me to shake a bias in favor of them when comparing the
> services.
I was not a big fan of Music Choice but I thought they were okay. The processing on the '60's Channel was weak, it never had much punch to it. My other channel of choice the Smooth Jazz channel was uneven sometimes they played a lot of music I liked but most times they didn't. The mix seemed very uneven. When I have listened in the store Watercolors seemed like a better smooth jazz channel.
> Second, the XM channel names are not very descriptive, in
> many cases, of the channel content. With the obvious
> exception of "The 80s" or "XM Country", it's not always
> clear what I should be punching up.
I think that will not be an issue as people get used to it.
> Third, there are PROMOS for other XM channels, where Music
> Choice was pure music. If I want something interrupting my
> music, I'll turn on the radio. This is likely to make me
> switch to my CDs more.
Good point.
> Third-and-a-half, the promos refer to XM channel numbers,
> which make them meaningless to me on my DirecTV receiver.
> Even if something they promoted interested me, I still
> wouldn't know where to find it. (Big stupid move.)
I think there is a guide somewhere, they might start giving out the DirecTV numbers in time but since their core business is the satellite subs I'm not sure.
> Fourth, there is NO direct replacement for my former
> favorite Music Choice channel, Retro-Active. "Lucy" is
> close, but not on the mark; what I liked was the new
> wave/modern rock-focused channel and there is too much 90s
> grunge/alternative on "Lucy".
For me there are far too many Metal and Hip Hop channels. I would like to see something along the lines of a 50's 60's middle of the road music station but fat chance of that ever happening. Like you say about Retro-Active some come close but not quite.
> Fifth, DirecTV didn't even do the intelligent thing and put
> the XM channels on the same channels as the Music Choice
> channels they replaced. "Lucy" should have been on 814
> (Retro-Active's old channel) so I wouldn't have had to go
> look for it, jangling my nerves in the process as I
> encountered channels that annoy me. I had all the Music
> Choice channels I didn't want programmed out of my "Custom
> Stations" configuration and now I have to put all the XM
> channels in there until I can figure out which ones I really
> want. Even Radio Disney, the one service that both Music
> Choice and XM carry, has gotten moved to a different
> DirectTV channel. Not smart.
Change is difficult. Maybe they wanted to match the order of channels on the XM radios?
>
> Sixth (and this is laughable), so far the song titles on the
> screen have not matched up with what's on the audio track
> most of the time.
Bugs, I'm not surprised. Looking at it this afternoon it looks like they worked it out.
> This move hammered a few more nails in DirecTV's coffin for
> me; it is only a matter of time before I cancel my service
> altogether, having already cancelled all my premium channels
> because the value was not there (for those not in the know,
> DirecTV does not carry all the multicast channels of
> HBO/Cinemax/Showtime/TMC/Starz/Encore, while Dish does).
> They have been going downhill for me ever since they
> cancelled Trio.
I agree with you, I thought Trio really added something special. Then there was the change from TechTV to G4 which I realize DirecTV had nothing to do with. If not for the crummy over the air reception I get and the fact I have a DirecTiVo I wouldn't miss DirecTV.
> However, this does make it clear to me that I likely don't
> want to subscribe to XM. That's probably the opposite of
> what XM is hoping with this partnership, but they should
> have known that it cuts both ways.
Good point, so far I have no overwhelming urge to go out and buy XM and start paying for radio. I have my iPod and lots of music of varied formats.
Actually I see it hurting XM more than helping because if you wanted to have XM at home now you don't need to buy anything. I do like some of the specials but I have to hope that I remember to tune in. They are going to have an exclusive with McCartney on his new CD.
I keep thinking if I was a truck driver or someone who spent a lot of time on the road satellite radio might make sense but right now there are way too many companies who want a slice of my paycheck!
MikeM
> Second, the XM channel names are not very descriptive, in
> many cases, of the channel content. With the obvious
> exception of "The 80s" or "XM Country", it's not always
> clear what I should be punching up.
No, but unlike Music Choice, the channels are arranged in a logical order. All of the decades channels are together, all of the rock channels are together. Should make it a little bit easier to navigate when flipping through. I agree that the XM channel lineup is really much easier to get through with presets like on the dedicated XM receivers.
> Third, there are PROMOS for other XM channels, where Music
> Choice was pure music. If I want something interrupting my
> music, I'll turn on the radio. This is likely to make me
> switch to my CDs more.
That's sort of the point. XM is radio. It isn't Muzak. Nothing wrong with preferring Muzak though.
> Third-and-a-half, the promos refer to XM channel numbers,
> which make them meaningless to me on my DirecTV receiver.
> Even if something they promoted interested me, I still
> wouldn't know where to find it. (Big stupid move.)
Are the DirecTV channel numbers similar? For instance is XM Channel 8 channel 508 or 808 on DirecTV? If not, I agree that's a dumb decision. However, I don't think XM should bother doing extra promos for DirecTV customers. The focus should be on XM's paying customers.
> Fourth, there is NO direct replacement for my former
> favorite Music Choice channel, Retro-Active. "Lucy" is
> close, but not on the mark; what I liked was the new
> wave/modern rock-focused channel and there is too much 90s
> grunge/alternative on "Lucy".
Did you try "Fred"? That's the 80's-based modern rock station.
> Fifth, DirecTV didn't even do the intelligent thing and put
> the XM channels on the same channels as the Music Choice
> channels they replaced. "Lucy" should have been on 814
> (Retro-Active's old channel) so I wouldn't have had to go
> look for it, jangling my nerves in the process as I
> encountered channels that annoy me. I had all the Music
> Choice channels I didn't want programmed out of my "Custom
> Stations" configuration and now I have to put all the XM
> channels in there until I can figure out which ones I really
> want. Even Radio Disney, the one service that both Music
> Choice and XM carry, has gotten moved to a different
> DirectTV channel. Not smart.
That's an annoyance that I think would have been difficult to avoid. Music Choice and XM don't have a 1:1 ratio of channels, and some of the XM stations cover different ground than the Music Choice ones. For instance, someone would have to decide which Top 40 station replaced Music Choice HitList, which Adult Alternative station replaced Music Choice Adult Alternative, etc.
> However, this does make it clear to me that I likely don't
> want to subscribe to XM. That's probably the opposite of
> what XM is hoping with this partnership, but they should
> have known that it cuts both ways.
True, but judging from your stated opinion of the service, you probably wouldn't have subscribed to XM anyway. It's not as if they've lost a customer.
> many cases, of the channel content. With the obvious
> exception of "The 80s" or "XM Country", it's not always
> clear what I should be punching up.
No, but unlike Music Choice, the channels are arranged in a logical order. All of the decades channels are together, all of the rock channels are together. Should make it a little bit easier to navigate when flipping through. I agree that the XM channel lineup is really much easier to get through with presets like on the dedicated XM receivers.
> Third, there are PROMOS for other XM channels, where Music
> Choice was pure music. If I want something interrupting my
> music, I'll turn on the radio. This is likely to make me
> switch to my CDs more.
That's sort of the point. XM is radio. It isn't Muzak. Nothing wrong with preferring Muzak though.
> Third-and-a-half, the promos refer to XM channel numbers,
> which make them meaningless to me on my DirecTV receiver.
> Even if something they promoted interested me, I still
> wouldn't know where to find it. (Big stupid move.)
Are the DirecTV channel numbers similar? For instance is XM Channel 8 channel 508 or 808 on DirecTV? If not, I agree that's a dumb decision. However, I don't think XM should bother doing extra promos for DirecTV customers. The focus should be on XM's paying customers.
> Fourth, there is NO direct replacement for my former
> favorite Music Choice channel, Retro-Active. "Lucy" is
> close, but not on the mark; what I liked was the new
> wave/modern rock-focused channel and there is too much 90s
> grunge/alternative on "Lucy".
Did you try "Fred"? That's the 80's-based modern rock station.
> Fifth, DirecTV didn't even do the intelligent thing and put
> the XM channels on the same channels as the Music Choice
> channels they replaced. "Lucy" should have been on 814
> (Retro-Active's old channel) so I wouldn't have had to go
> look for it, jangling my nerves in the process as I
> encountered channels that annoy me. I had all the Music
> Choice channels I didn't want programmed out of my "Custom
> Stations" configuration and now I have to put all the XM
> channels in there until I can figure out which ones I really
> want. Even Radio Disney, the one service that both Music
> Choice and XM carry, has gotten moved to a different
> DirectTV channel. Not smart.
That's an annoyance that I think would have been difficult to avoid. Music Choice and XM don't have a 1:1 ratio of channels, and some of the XM stations cover different ground than the Music Choice ones. For instance, someone would have to decide which Top 40 station replaced Music Choice HitList, which Adult Alternative station replaced Music Choice Adult Alternative, etc.
> However, this does make it clear to me that I likely don't
> want to subscribe to XM. That's probably the opposite of
> what XM is hoping with this partnership, but they should
> have known that it cuts both ways.
True, but judging from your stated opinion of the service, you probably wouldn't have subscribed to XM anyway. It's not as if they've lost a customer.
> Are the DirecTV channel numbers similar? For instance is XM
> Channel 8 channel 508 or 808 on DirecTV? If not, I agree
> that's a dumb decision. However, I don't think XM should
> bother doing extra promos for DirecTV customers. The focus
> should be on XM's paying customers.
The answer to this question is no. "'80s on 8" is Channel 805 on DirecTV, "'90s" is 806, etc. DISH Network, having the advantage of 4-digit channel numbers, has Sirius in order on the "6000" channels.
Prior to Mel Karmazin becoming CEO of Sirius, they used to promote their channels with the DISH channel number along with its regular number. They hardly mention their affiliation with DISH anymore, other than an occasional shout-out from a DJ on certain channels.
> Channel 8 channel 508 or 808 on DirecTV? If not, I agree
> that's a dumb decision. However, I don't think XM should
> bother doing extra promos for DirecTV customers. The focus
> should be on XM's paying customers.
The answer to this question is no. "'80s on 8" is Channel 805 on DirecTV, "'90s" is 806, etc. DISH Network, having the advantage of 4-digit channel numbers, has Sirius in order on the "6000" channels.
Prior to Mel Karmazin becoming CEO of Sirius, they used to promote their channels with the DISH channel number along with its regular number. They hardly mention their affiliation with DISH anymore, other than an occasional shout-out from a DJ on certain channels.
K
KMRichards
Guest
> > Third-and-a-half, the promos refer to XM channel numbers,
> > which make them meaningless to me on my DirecTV receiver.
> > Even if something they promoted interested me, I still
> > wouldn't know where to find it. (Big stupid move.)
>
> Are the DirecTV channel numbers similar? For instance is XM
> Channel 8 channel 508 or 808 on DirecTV? If not, I agree
> that's a dumb decision.
I only cross-referenced the first six channels, which are the decades specific ones, and DirecTV channels 801 through 806 are XM channels 4 through 9, so apparently not.
> > Fourth, there is NO direct replacement for my former
> > favorite Music Choice channel, Retro-Active. "Lucy" is
> > close, but not on the mark; what I liked was the new
> > wave/modern rock-focused channel and there is too much 90s
> > grunge/alternative on "Lucy".
>
> Did you try "Fred"? That's the 80's-based modern rock
> station.
When I checked it, they were playing grunge/alt rock too. Besides which, the lack of coordination between channel numbering schemes makes it hard for me to find ANYTHING.
I gave up about an hour after my original post and programmed ALL the XM channels off of my receiver's "custom stations" list. And I e-mailed DirecTV and told them so.
> > However, this does make it clear to me that I likely don't
> > want to subscribe to XM. That's probably the opposite of
> > what XM is hoping with this partnership, but they should
> > have known that it cuts both ways.
>
> True, but judging from your stated opinion of the service,
> you probably wouldn't have subscribed to XM anyway. It's
> not as if they've lost a customer.
My "stated opinion of the service"? All I have ever said was that XM and Sirius pose no threat to terrestrial radio, quoting their own subscriber numbers, in rebuttal to those who think broadcasters should be trembling in their collective boots. I never said I wouldn't try it ... until now, that is.<P ID="signature">______________
</P>
> > which make them meaningless to me on my DirecTV receiver.
> > Even if something they promoted interested me, I still
> > wouldn't know where to find it. (Big stupid move.)
>
> Are the DirecTV channel numbers similar? For instance is XM
> Channel 8 channel 508 or 808 on DirecTV? If not, I agree
> that's a dumb decision.
I only cross-referenced the first six channels, which are the decades specific ones, and DirecTV channels 801 through 806 are XM channels 4 through 9, so apparently not.
> > Fourth, there is NO direct replacement for my former
> > favorite Music Choice channel, Retro-Active. "Lucy" is
> > close, but not on the mark; what I liked was the new
> > wave/modern rock-focused channel and there is too much 90s
> > grunge/alternative on "Lucy".
>
> Did you try "Fred"? That's the 80's-based modern rock
> station.
When I checked it, they were playing grunge/alt rock too. Besides which, the lack of coordination between channel numbering schemes makes it hard for me to find ANYTHING.
I gave up about an hour after my original post and programmed ALL the XM channels off of my receiver's "custom stations" list. And I e-mailed DirecTV and told them so.
> > However, this does make it clear to me that I likely don't
> > want to subscribe to XM. That's probably the opposite of
> > what XM is hoping with this partnership, but they should
> > have known that it cuts both ways.
>
> True, but judging from your stated opinion of the service,
> you probably wouldn't have subscribed to XM anyway. It's
> not as if they've lost a customer.
My "stated opinion of the service"? All I have ever said was that XM and Sirius pose no threat to terrestrial radio, quoting their own subscriber numbers, in rebuttal to those who think broadcasters should be trembling in their collective boots. I never said I wouldn't try it ... until now, that is.<P ID="signature">______________
</P>
> > DirecTV is dumping "Music Choice" and going with XM Radio
> > for their music channels starting 11-15-05. Any comments?
>
>
> First, I loved Music Choice. So it's going to be hard for
> me to shake a bias in favor of them when comparing the
> services.
>
> Second, the XM channel names are not very descriptive, in
> many cases, of the channel content. With the obvious
> exception of "The 80s" or "XM Country", it's not always
> clear what I should be punching up.
>
> Third, there are PROMOS for other XM channels, where Music
> Choice was pure music. If I want something interrupting my
> music, I'll turn on the radio. This is likely to make me
> switch to my CDs more.
>
> Third-and-a-half, the promos refer to XM channel numbers,
> which make them meaningless to me on my DirecTV receiver.
> Even if something they promoted interested me, I still
> wouldn't know where to find it. (Big stupid move.)
>
> Fourth, there is NO direct replacement for my former
> favorite Music Choice channel, Retro-Active. "Lucy" is
> close, but not on the mark; what I liked was the new
> wave/modern rock-focused channel and there is too much 90s
> grunge/alternative on "Lucy".
>
> Fifth, DirecTV didn't even do the intelligent thing and put
> the XM channels on the same channels as the Music Choice
> channels they replaced. "Lucy" should have been on 814
> (Retro-Active's old channel) so I wouldn't have had to go
> look for it, jangling my nerves in the process as I
> encountered channels that annoy me. I had all the Music
> Choice channels I didn't want programmed out of my "Custom
> Stations" configuration and now I have to put all the XM
> channels in there until I can figure out which ones I really
> want. Even Radio Disney, the one service that both Music
> Choice and XM carry, has gotten moved to a different
> DirectTV channel. Not smart.
>
> Sixth (and this is laughable), so far the song titles on the
> screen have not matched up with what's on the audio track
> most of the time.
>
> This move hammered a few more nails in DirecTV's coffin for
> me; it is only a matter of time before I cancel my service
> altogether, having already cancelled all my premium channels
> because the value was not there (for those not in the know,
> DirecTV does not carry all the multicast channels of
> HBO/Cinemax/Showtime/TMC/Starz/Encore, while Dish does).
> They have been going downhill for me ever since they
> cancelled Trio.
>
> However, this does make it clear to me that I likely don't
> want to subscribe to XM. That's probably the opposite of
> what XM is hoping with this partnership, but they should
> have known that it cuts both ways.
Good points, right in line with my reaction to the change over. Music Choice was a good service. I tuned past one of the XM "soul" (or whatever) channels today (but didn't stay long) and the jock was talking more than he was playing--music, yammering on and on about XM now being on DirecTV, yada, yada, yada. The uninterrupted Music Choice fare was terrific. The change is a mistake. If I want to hear endless prattle between music I'll go back to terrestrial radio. But no need--I have Sirius.
>
> > for their music channels starting 11-15-05. Any comments?
>
>
> First, I loved Music Choice. So it's going to be hard for
> me to shake a bias in favor of them when comparing the
> services.
>
> Second, the XM channel names are not very descriptive, in
> many cases, of the channel content. With the obvious
> exception of "The 80s" or "XM Country", it's not always
> clear what I should be punching up.
>
> Third, there are PROMOS for other XM channels, where Music
> Choice was pure music. If I want something interrupting my
> music, I'll turn on the radio. This is likely to make me
> switch to my CDs more.
>
> Third-and-a-half, the promos refer to XM channel numbers,
> which make them meaningless to me on my DirecTV receiver.
> Even if something they promoted interested me, I still
> wouldn't know where to find it. (Big stupid move.)
>
> Fourth, there is NO direct replacement for my former
> favorite Music Choice channel, Retro-Active. "Lucy" is
> close, but not on the mark; what I liked was the new
> wave/modern rock-focused channel and there is too much 90s
> grunge/alternative on "Lucy".
>
> Fifth, DirecTV didn't even do the intelligent thing and put
> the XM channels on the same channels as the Music Choice
> channels they replaced. "Lucy" should have been on 814
> (Retro-Active's old channel) so I wouldn't have had to go
> look for it, jangling my nerves in the process as I
> encountered channels that annoy me. I had all the Music
> Choice channels I didn't want programmed out of my "Custom
> Stations" configuration and now I have to put all the XM
> channels in there until I can figure out which ones I really
> want. Even Radio Disney, the one service that both Music
> Choice and XM carry, has gotten moved to a different
> DirectTV channel. Not smart.
>
> Sixth (and this is laughable), so far the song titles on the
> screen have not matched up with what's on the audio track
> most of the time.
>
> This move hammered a few more nails in DirecTV's coffin for
> me; it is only a matter of time before I cancel my service
> altogether, having already cancelled all my premium channels
> because the value was not there (for those not in the know,
> DirecTV does not carry all the multicast channels of
> HBO/Cinemax/Showtime/TMC/Starz/Encore, while Dish does).
> They have been going downhill for me ever since they
> cancelled Trio.
>
> However, this does make it clear to me that I likely don't
> want to subscribe to XM. That's probably the opposite of
> what XM is hoping with this partnership, but they should
> have known that it cuts both ways.
Good points, right in line with my reaction to the change over. Music Choice was a good service. I tuned past one of the XM "soul" (or whatever) channels today (but didn't stay long) and the jock was talking more than he was playing--music, yammering on and on about XM now being on DirecTV, yada, yada, yada. The uninterrupted Music Choice fare was terrific. The change is a mistake. If I want to hear endless prattle between music I'll go back to terrestrial radio. But no need--I have Sirius.
>
> My "stated opinion of the service"? All I have ever said
> was that XM and Sirius pose no threat to terrestrial radio,
> quoting their own subscriber numbers, in rebuttal to those
> who think broadcasters should be trembling in their
> collective boots. I never said I wouldn't try it ... until
> now, that is.
I wasn't referring to any previous post. I just meant that if you can't find music you like, and you are annoyed by the promos, you probably wouldn't have liked XM even if you had given it a try on a regular receiver.
> was that XM and Sirius pose no threat to terrestrial radio,
> quoting their own subscriber numbers, in rebuttal to those
> who think broadcasters should be trembling in their
> collective boots. I never said I wouldn't try it ... until
> now, that is.
I wasn't referring to any previous post. I just meant that if you can't find music you like, and you are annoyed by the promos, you probably wouldn't have liked XM even if you had given it a try on a regular receiver.
R
RDP
Guest
> > This is Nice
> >
> > although I don't know much about it but Iam enjoying it.
> >
> >
> > in fact I have it on as Iam typing this.
> >
>
> I like it so far. The jocks liven up the 50's and 60's
> channels but I can see where some would just rather hear the
> music.
>
> I think they missed the mark on the '50's channel. I know
> what they are trying to do but they are missing the mark.
> They play a lot of stuff that's not '50's based. The '50's
> was more than just rock and roll.
>
> Mike
>
Enjoyed Music Choice. Hate to see them go. I was thinking about going back to Direct TV but after reading those above posts, I may as well stick with Dish Network. Sirius has a great mix of music and so does the Dish Network Music Channels. Like what I have been hearing on these channels.
RDP <><
P.S. I like the new Revolution Channel that Sirius just added. (Channel 6067 on Dish Network) They rock really hard on that channel and I like what I have been hearing. The guy that does the announcing, is awesome as well. He is doing a great job.
> >
> > although I don't know much about it but Iam enjoying it.
> >
> >
> > in fact I have it on as Iam typing this.
> >
>
> I like it so far. The jocks liven up the 50's and 60's
> channels but I can see where some would just rather hear the
> music.
>
> I think they missed the mark on the '50's channel. I know
> what they are trying to do but they are missing the mark.
> They play a lot of stuff that's not '50's based. The '50's
> was more than just rock and roll.
>
> Mike
>
Enjoyed Music Choice. Hate to see them go. I was thinking about going back to Direct TV but after reading those above posts, I may as well stick with Dish Network. Sirius has a great mix of music and so does the Dish Network Music Channels. Like what I have been hearing on these channels.
RDP <><
P.S. I like the new Revolution Channel that Sirius just added. (Channel 6067 on Dish Network) They rock really hard on that channel and I like what I have been hearing. The guy that does the announcing, is awesome as well. He is doing a great job.
M
mwebster
Guest
Re: DirecTV went to XM Radio yesterday
I find it interesting that XM has music channels named "Lucy," "Fred," and "Ethel," but no channel named "Ricky." (Or maybe "Ricky" is in the Spanish language package, I don't get. That would splain it).
For some reason, DirecTV in their infinite wisdom scrambled the order of the Music Choice channels a while back. The Music Choice order always made more sense to me. Also, there were some MC channels DirecTV never carried, or only carried part-time. At least now, as Plus subscriber I get the whole (Non-Spanish) package.
There is a wider-range of music types available now. I don't care if they have "too many" Urban music channels, as long as they have what I want to listen to.
What is missing for me is a true Real Oldies channel, a true Doo-Wop channel and a true MOR/Nostalgia channel.
I agree it would make sense to use the XM Channel numbers along with the DirecTV numbers.
I have noticed song titles are out of sync. I will make allowances for a work in progress for the time being.
I already listen to XM radio online. AOL Radio has some of the channels. WinAmp has more. The links to other channels are posted on the Radio and the Internet board (you need WinAmp to listen). Now I can listen via DirecTV. Do I want to buy a subscription to listen in my car. Probably not; don't spend enough time in the car to make it worthwhile. And XM Radio is fine but it doesn't exactly blow me away. Clear Channel's AM Real Oldies station have a playlist I like better. I also liked the Nostalgia playlist better on WW1's AM Only 24/7 format (now gone), but XM offers nothing comparable. For talk radio, XM doesn't have much different or unique. Bottom line: No killer app.
DirecTV is not the value it was (compared to cable) 10 years ago. The picture quality and customer service is better than Comcast. But the main reason I stay is DirecTV has the only TiVo/DVR which (1) has digital quality and (2) can record two shows at once (and you can watch a recorded show while it is recording two others).
Part of the reason for the "partnership" is (my understanding) there is/was some overlapping or inter-locking ownership between News Corp and XM Radio.
I find it interesting that XM has music channels named "Lucy," "Fred," and "Ethel," but no channel named "Ricky." (Or maybe "Ricky" is in the Spanish language package, I don't get. That would splain it).
For some reason, DirecTV in their infinite wisdom scrambled the order of the Music Choice channels a while back. The Music Choice order always made more sense to me. Also, there were some MC channels DirecTV never carried, or only carried part-time. At least now, as Plus subscriber I get the whole (Non-Spanish) package.
There is a wider-range of music types available now. I don't care if they have "too many" Urban music channels, as long as they have what I want to listen to.
What is missing for me is a true Real Oldies channel, a true Doo-Wop channel and a true MOR/Nostalgia channel.
I agree it would make sense to use the XM Channel numbers along with the DirecTV numbers.
I have noticed song titles are out of sync. I will make allowances for a work in progress for the time being.
I already listen to XM radio online. AOL Radio has some of the channels. WinAmp has more. The links to other channels are posted on the Radio and the Internet board (you need WinAmp to listen). Now I can listen via DirecTV. Do I want to buy a subscription to listen in my car. Probably not; don't spend enough time in the car to make it worthwhile. And XM Radio is fine but it doesn't exactly blow me away. Clear Channel's AM Real Oldies station have a playlist I like better. I also liked the Nostalgia playlist better on WW1's AM Only 24/7 format (now gone), but XM offers nothing comparable. For talk radio, XM doesn't have much different or unique. Bottom line: No killer app.
DirecTV is not the value it was (compared to cable) 10 years ago. The picture quality and customer service is better than Comcast. But the main reason I stay is DirecTV has the only TiVo/DVR which (1) has digital quality and (2) can record two shows at once (and you can watch a recorded show while it is recording two others).
Part of the reason for the "partnership" is (my understanding) there is/was some overlapping or inter-locking ownership between News Corp and XM Radio.
J
Jets885sports
Guest
> > > This is Nice
> > >
> > > although I don't know much about it but Iam enjoying it.
>
> > >
> > >
> > > in fact I have it on as Iam typing this.
> > >
> >
> > I like it so far. The jocks liven up the 50's and 60's
> > channels but I can see where some would just rather hear
> the
> > music.
> >
> > I think they missed the mark on the '50's channel. I know
>
> > what they are trying to do but they are missing the mark.
>
> > They play a lot of stuff that's not '50's based. The
> '50's
> > was more than just rock and roll.
> >
> > Mike
> >
> Enjoyed Music Choice. Hate to see them go. I was thinking
> about going back to Direct TV but after reading those above
> posts, I may as well stick with Dish Network. Sirius has a
> great mix of music and so does the Dish Network Music
> Channels. Like what I have been hearing on these channels.
>
> RDP <
>
> P.S. I like the new Revolution Channel that Sirius just
> added. (Channel 6067 on Dish Network) They rock really hard
> on that channel and I like what I have been hearing. The
> guy that does the announcing, is awesome as well. He is
> doing a great job.
>
So is Music Choice still going to be on digital cable like, Charter and the like?
> > >
> > > although I don't know much about it but Iam enjoying it.
>
> > >
> > >
> > > in fact I have it on as Iam typing this.
> > >
> >
> > I like it so far. The jocks liven up the 50's and 60's
> > channels but I can see where some would just rather hear
> the
> > music.
> >
> > I think they missed the mark on the '50's channel. I know
>
> > what they are trying to do but they are missing the mark.
>
> > They play a lot of stuff that's not '50's based. The
> '50's
> > was more than just rock and roll.
> >
> > Mike
> >
> Enjoyed Music Choice. Hate to see them go. I was thinking
> about going back to Direct TV but after reading those above
> posts, I may as well stick with Dish Network. Sirius has a
> great mix of music and so does the Dish Network Music
> Channels. Like what I have been hearing on these channels.
>
> RDP <
>
> P.S. I like the new Revolution Channel that Sirius just
> added. (Channel 6067 on Dish Network) They rock really hard
> on that channel and I like what I have been hearing. The
> guy that does the announcing, is awesome as well. He is
> doing a great job.
>
So is Music Choice still going to be on digital cable like, Charter and the like?
Re: DirecTV went to XM Radio yesterday
> Part of the reason for the "partnership" is (my
> understanding) there is/was some overlapping or
> inter-locking ownership between News Corp and XM Radio.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought DirecTV sold its interest in XM when News Corp. took over.
> Part of the reason for the "partnership" is (my
> understanding) there is/was some overlapping or
> inter-locking ownership between News Corp and XM Radio.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought DirecTV sold its interest in XM when News Corp. took over.
M
mike704
Guest
> So is Music Choice still going to be on digital cable like,
> Charter and the like?
I don't see why not. Music Choice is even offering their service on cell phones. I'm not sure how that works out. The cable operators are free to cut their own deal I assume. I don't know what music channels our local cable system (Time Warner) carries here.
MikeM
> Charter and the like?
I don't see why not. Music Choice is even offering their service on cell phones. I'm not sure how that works out. The cable operators are free to cut their own deal I assume. I don't know what music channels our local cable system (Time Warner) carries here.
MikeM
K
KMRichards
Guest
> I wasn't referring to any previous post. I just meant that
> if you can't find music you like, and you are annoyed by the
> promos, you probably wouldn't have liked XM even if you had
> given it a try on a regular receiver.
Given that explanation of what you meant, I agree completely. At least I didn't have to subscribe to XM and buy a receiver just to find that out.
As I said, XM likely entered into this deal to get exposure, and now they have to realize that they will get negative reactions as well as positive ones from it.<P ID="signature">______________
</P>
> if you can't find music you like, and you are annoyed by the
> promos, you probably wouldn't have liked XM even if you had
> given it a try on a regular receiver.
Given that explanation of what you meant, I agree completely. At least I didn't have to subscribe to XM and buy a receiver just to find that out.
As I said, XM likely entered into this deal to get exposure, and now they have to realize that they will get negative reactions as well as positive ones from it.<P ID="signature">______________
</P>
- Status
- This thread has been closed due to inactivity. You can create a new thread to discuss this topic.