I have had the Ticket since aroun 98. I think it was the first or 2nd year it was around...I have been a directTV customer since 98...they gave me free HD service and a free HD Dvr recently.
I've only had Sunday Ticket since 04, and can certainly appreciate the "10 year Sunday Ticketers"..
Last season, I missed several games due to work, but not before it had become obvious, the only way I could justify my investment, would be to record them.
Given my relatively meager 3 year status however, it came as little surprise when my request for a free DVR was abruptly declined. I was also sharply informed I'd have to pay $99.00 for a recorder, despite the fact their DVR's are proprietary to the DirectTV satellite network, and that they were shoveling them out, along with other incentives, to new subscribers "only".
So, this year I'm prepared to make a stand, for myself, as well as the guy who after nearly a decade, earns a proprietary recorder, and as if through some act of benevolence, is provided HD service that for $250, should be the expected standard.
This year I'm prepared to make a stand, against the way DirectTV is borrowing from the NFL's current method, of garnishing 1st year rookies with exorbitant deals and incentives, before they've even played a down. This, while loyal veterans grind away, year after year in the trenches, recieving little or no compensation, for their unswerving ability to deliver, not only season after season, but for playing an active part, in subscribing to each year's offseason programs.
Fortunately ncmedic5, is gaining a considerable value by watching numerous games in addition to the Fins, because there's a significant benefit that DirectTV is reaping from its established core, particularly with a subscribership that shows an ongoing willingness to accept a lesser value, often to be expected when exclusive rights are involved.
A paying audience, that imo has not only become a victim of snide business tactics, but a perfect model for corporate success.