Audio Video News

Last week, EchoStar Communications announced that the DISH HD Model 6000, an integrated satellite television receiver with the ability to receive high-definition television (HDTV) signals, is now available at select DISH Network retail outlets. The 6000 is the company's newest high-definition satellite TV receiver and is priced at $499.

EchoStar says that the new model supports both 1080i and 720p ATSC formats along with Dolby Digital, and sports component and RGB HDTV video outputs compatible with hi-def TVs. According to the company, the ability to view hi-def programming is not limited to owners of HDTV sets—DISH HD also allows hi-def programming to be viewed on today's standard-definition TVs by downconverting HD programming to standard definition.

Later this summer, EchoStar says it will introduce an optional off-air HD digital tuner cartridge for the 6000 for $100. By using the off-air tuner cartridge, the company claims that consumers can upgrade their DISH HD to channel-surf between off-air analog and off-air digital signals offered by local broadcasters, in addition to DISH Network's standard and hi-def programming.

EchoStar's Mike Dugan says that "because EchoStar has more bandwidth available than any other programming provider, DISH Network is the best source for watching HDTV." DISH Network currently offers two channels of HDTV, HBO-HD, and Showtime-HD, featuring movies and sports events. EchoStar adds that DISH 500 customers will need a second dish, pointed at 61.5 degrees west longitude, in order to receive hi-def progamming.