I'm leaning heavily towards DirecTV. From what I've read (Consumer Reports and elsewhere), satellite typically has a better picture than cable, gives you more for your money and has better customer service. Probably because the satellite companies are in competition for your business and the cable company has a monopoly on your neighborhood.
The main issues with satellite would be:
1. The dish has to have a clear line of sight to the satellite, which is near the southern horizon, so if you live in an area with mountains or tall buildings in the way, you may have to stick with cable.
2. If you live in an area that is prone to snow, ice or frequent heavy thunderstorms, you may have interruptions.
3. The up-front cost is higher (installation, equipment, etc.).
You may also want to stick with cable for your internet service even if you go with satellite TV. Your choices with satellite would be either DSL (slower and less reliable than cable) or satellite internet (fast but very expensive, and costs around $600 for installation!).
Hope this helps.
I have done all of my research (Cnet and primarily this forum) and made the plunge... Panasonic 50' monitor, Yamaha A/V reciever, new DVD recorder, cables, etc. I just contacted my cable company (TW) to udate my cable box to HD and was told they won't have any until mid January! My local phone company is offering a package deal with Direct TV which sounds good...about $10 a month cheaper. Are there any issues regarding Direct TV that I should be aware of?? Is service and picture quality as reliable as cable?
PS I live in the So. Cal. area so I will not need an off-air antenna to receive local stations.
Thank you for you help!!