RSN

All TV provides charge the RSN fee some just include it in the monthly price.

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@MsleeleeP wrote:

I fail to understand the outrageous need to charge people a feee for something they don't watch. I also fail to understand why Direct TV only solution is to suggest that one change their package to accommodate such ignorance (for lack of a better word). I have a choice pkg, but have no choice, and they suggest that I change to select pkg that I can't select. It really sounds like a scam to me..  

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You can get packages without the Regional Sports Networks. 

The package they offered me did not incude the channels i wanted. What ovr realized is that after my promotional package ended they are are doing the exact same thing Spectrum is doing which I was assured would not happen. After having removed some Premium channels, I lost some other channels I like. Direct TV is a scam

its how negotiations are done

station says i will only let you carry me for this much per month per sub, and i must be in these packs

carrier says, no i want this

they settle on something.

so the station ends up in multiple packs, and you have no way to drop it

What are your must have channels? Unfortunately sometimes if you want a cheaper bill you have to lose some channels you like. I used to have one of the higher packages that was over $100 (before DVR fees). I’ve switched to the lowest package now (Select) and while I’m missing some channels I used to enjoy, the $40+ savings each month is much more satisfying. 

Editing my post to add that Choice is going up $5 next month and also the RSN is going up by $1.50 to $2.00, depending on your location. In my area the RSN will now be $10. Just found this info today. 

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@MsleeleeP wrote:
That's my point. We should not HAVE to give The channels we like in order to get a cheaper bill. The select package would have been great for me, because every channel she named that would go I don't watch...until she said OWN. Why do we not have a real choice, because they decided to do the tier scam. The exact same reason I left Spectrum; I can't afford to pay for what I exactly want. No choice, no select except for what they choose and select.
Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android

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The "they" you refer to are the corporations that own these networks. They force providers like Comcast, Dish and DirecTV to bundle channels into packages because they know that few folks watch some of those channels. Traditional TV providers have no choice. That's one reason why more and more folks are dumping cable/satellite for streaming services. 

I understand, I do like that channel too but to me the savings was worth losing it. You could switch to the lowest package and use Philo once in a while for OWN. Philo is $20 per month. You can cancel and resubscribe anytime and you’d still be saving every month. Just a suggestion. 

RSNs are in Choice, Xtra, Ultimate, Premier.

Unlike other providers, DirecTV does not hide the RSN cost in the package anymore and itemizes it for your address.

To get rid of the RSN fee you must be in a package without RSNs which would be Family, Select, Entertainment, and the special Preferred Xtra.

If the channels you do watch are in Choice or above, then Preferred Xtra is the better option. Call DirecTV and when you get the voice system say "cancel" routing you to their retention department as it appears this package has been moved to being a retention offer (as front line agents are either unaware of it or not allowed to discuss it unless you already have the package).

I truly do get what you’re saying. I was just thinking that if you switch to the Select package you would be saving at least $35 a month on your DirecTV bill, then you could get Philo for OWN and still be paying less than what you’re paying now. Just trying to help. We can’t change the way they offer channels to us unfortunately and TV is getting very costly these days.

@Catscents 

Networks charge more and more over time and so TV providers have to follow suit so they don't end up loosing money. Unfortunately it is the way the industry is setup.

You make a choice that is more financially responsible then many by choosing a package within your budget, instead of expecting the company to price things to your budget. As a note, Select is not the lowest package but the 2nd lowest. The one below that is Family, though only works for some because if the lineup.

Yes, I almost mentioned Family package but like you said, probably not a good fit for most people. But if someone is locked in a contract and wants to pay the minimum that would definitely be it! I’ve had the package before when I was contemplating switching to streaming services and testing some of those out. Local channels, most of the kids channels, DIY, Food, HGTV, Hallmark, and all the christian/inspirational channels are what stand out to me in the Family package. Maybe it could work for the original poster. Would save $65+ (more with the upcoming price increase) a month, but then again missing so many channels.