New Twist to Discounts in Rogers http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r22236816 en Sat, 28 Nov 2009 08:57:45 EDT Sat, 28 Nov 2009 08:57:45 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22648781 anon : 'They wanted $9.00 more, so I downgraded the cable and internet so now I'm saving $50.00 a month, so how far did they get with the price increase.'

An excellent way to respond when you are in a position where you can not just terminate them. I had considered taking similar action when I received their 'ultimatum' about signing a 2 year contract or losing the bundle discount I had. I eventually determined that I'd have more peace of mind and get a great deal of satisfaction if I dropped Robbers cable TV service entirely, even if in meant I had to pay a bit of a premium to another service provider. (As it turned out I am paying a bit more, but that's because I opted for a programming package I did not have previously.) I would have dispensed with the internet service at the same time but out here in the 'boonies' there's no alternative if one wants high speed of any sort and degrading that service further is not an option at this time.

Now, if EVERYBODY responded as you did and Robbers were aware a financial backlash awaited them when they bugger about with their pricing and/or services (reasonable price and service adjustments over time we all understand and accept)to the detriment of their customers they just might think twice before knocking the hornet's nest out of the tree. (On second thought.........)

Unfortunately the sort of action that requires average Canadians to band together and act as a unit is just not, and never really has been, the Canadian way. Seems by nature we'd just as soon jump on the internet and come here and bitch.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22648781 Fri, 03 Jul 2009 08:55:04 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22647561 anon : They wanted $9.00 more, so I downgraded the cable and internet so now I'm saving $50.00 a month, so how far did they get with the price increase.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22647561 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 21:53:17 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22645167 dirtyjeffer : i am pretty sure, but don't quote me just in case.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22645167 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:28:33 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22644860 Robrr : Are you sure on that. The only services I currently have with Rogers is the TV and cell phone.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22644860 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:30:48 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22644735 dirtyjeffer : it doesn't affect your cell phone...only your internet, TV and phone.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22644735 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:06:31 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22644622 anon : I'd say just hang in there and once all your service contracts epire, which I assume will be at the same time, dump them and take your business elsewhere. In the event the contracts expire at different times remember not to renew any of them and don't change any of the present services features which in turn would then give them the opportunity to modify your contract end date, a practice which I believe their Terms of Service gives them the right to do.

Remember in selecting your new service providers it might be that you don't get the price benefits of a bundled deal. In my instance, on chucking Robbers cable TV, I saw my internet cost jump a bit but that's life in the fast lane. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22644622 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:46:00 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22643811 Robrr :
said by dirtyjeffer See Profile :

for those who don't want to sign the 2 year contract to keep the 15% discount, just sign it...the "penalty" to break it is only the discount you were given anyway, so you aren't really out anything.
I thought about it but according to the Rogers Rep it is going to screw up my cell phone contract end date. I don't want them extending that at all]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22643811 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:08:31 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22640538 anon : "not sure what package you had that was $85 with Rogers and didn't have TMN...we pay about $85/month and have the TMN package as well as the extra HD channels."

We did have some movie channels and TMN was one of them, but not HBO East and West and about a half dozen others that we now have with the *Choice movies bundle.

"for those who don't want to sign the 2 year contract to keep the 15% discount, just sign it...the "penalty" to break it is only the discount you were given anyway, so you aren't really out anything."

You might have a point there but I try never to sign any contracts I don't intend to honor. But then, each to his own.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22640538 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:50:21 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22639415 dirtyjeffer : not sure what package you had that was $85 with Rogers and didn't have TMN...we pay about $85/month and have the TMN package as well as the extra HD channels.

for those who don't want to sign the 2 year contract to keep the 15% discount, just sign it...the "penalty" to break it is only the discount you were given anyway, so you aren't really out anything.
--
Today's motto: Dearly beloved, We are gathered here today to bid farewell to personal responsibility and accountability.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22639415 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 12:20:11 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22638654 anon : 'no TV with thunderstorm?

wait till wintertime...'

Had a satellite system for about 7 years, in the '80's to early '90's, was installed long before there was cable 'strung' out this way, 12' dish, Uniden receiver and positioner. Also have had a Bell ExpressVu system for a year or two a couple of years back. True, a good snowstorm would pooch reception, as apparently would sunspot activity, but where we live the interference and loss of signal, with the snowstorms anyway, was not any worse than what we have experienced with the thunderstorms with any of the systems. Hope it stays that way....time will tell.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22638654 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 09:31:41 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22633144 anon : no TV with thunderstorm?

wait till wintertime...]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22633144 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 10:11:14 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22632607 anon : Just a quick update....

*Choice installed for 6 weeks or so now, installer arrived on schedule and bing, bang, boom all in and up and running in about an hour.

With all channel packs we want selected, monthly bill for programming is now in the $85. area per month (includes GST + PST), roughly $6. per month more than Robbers was (including taxes). HOWEVER, we have included the MOVIES channels (HBO East and West plus a batch of others) a $15. package that we did not have with Robbers.

I have had to call in for service a couple of times, (no fault of *Choice) and what a difference when compared to Robbers. Informed, pleasant people a real pleasure to talk with. They also have a call back feature that lets you leave your name and number and they call you back so you don't have to hang on the line listening to elevator music for extended periods.

Only drawback to date is signal loss when thunderstorms roll through (has happened twice) and has never lasted any more than 5 minutes, for us a small price to pay to get out from under Robbers.

Summary - NO REGRETS (Yet!)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22632607 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 07:56:07 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22632201 Robrr : Luckily I am not not getting that much of a discount from them but they did call me recently to try and get me to lock in on the new BCB.

I politely refused even after being offered a 20% discount for the first year :)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22632201 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 02:34:31 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22632023 Sunfox : Well, as of my last invoice in late June I still had the 15% discount, but after checking an unused Rogers master email account tonight, I discovered a notice telling me that my 15% discount is coming to end - to be replaced by a new and improved 5% discount. This must be the "new math".

I am NOT pleased. Even taking into consideration the new paltry 5% discount, this would raise my bill by $15 per month with NO added benefit to me. That's $22 per month higher than what Rogers cost me back in March, again with the exact same service level.

I'm sorry, but Rogers does not deserve $264 more per year from me FOR PROVIDING THE EXACT SAME SERVICE. I unhappily accepted the $90 per year increase they tacked on back in March, but bumping that up to $264? They've gone too far - especially in this economy where everyone is already tightening their belts. If I wanted to spend that kind of money I would subscribe to the movie networks, but I don't.

And of course if I don't agree to a 2-year contact (my 15% discount had NO contract terms) they would want to bill me over $29 more per month - $350 per year.

[seriously ticked off]]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22632023 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 01:13:31 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22495810 Robrr : Just wanted to mention that my notice for this showed up. I was speaking to the Customer Relations the other day when they screwed up my bill (Putting me on contract when I was not).

Anyways he mentioned that Rogers has been slowly combing all the accounts and notifying the people on the grandfathered BCB discounts about the changes.

So now that my notice has arrived I think I might be switching.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22495810 Thu, 04 Jun 2009 13:00:43 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22357059 cpsycho : Robbers was just arguing with the crtc that a price increase would be frowned upon by their customers, then the raise the rates again.

Wow, just wow.

These guys have gone from robbers to extortion artists.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22357059 Thu, 07 May 2009 23:49:06 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22353495 anon : Robrr.....

Just looking at my last bill from Robbers. Here's a list of charges/savings for the Cable TV part....

Digital VIP Cable = $63.47
VIP Digital Terminal = $24.95
SAVINGS Free Terminal = -$24.95 *
Digital Services Fee = $2.99
SAVINGS Winback - Free Terminal Offer = -$2.99
HDTV Chanel Pack = $8.95
Customer Choice Package = $15.95

SAVINGS VIP Discount = -$5.98
SAVINGS Better Choice Bundle = -$12.36

TOTAL Less Taxes = $70.03
GST = $3.50
PST = $5.60

TOTAL FOR CABLE TV = $79.13

* There's another whole story behind this credit I won't get into details here. Had to do with me giving them my Bell dish and receiver and in return getting a free Rogers receiver. At the time they conveniently 'forgot' to tell me it was a time limited promotion for 2 years. I had been under the impression it was for as long as I subscribed to Rogers cable! Caught this a year ago, just a month before the discount was to expire and with forceful complaint was given additional 2 years for free, which means in another year I'd be haggling over this charge again. Now, I've defected to *Choice I don't have that to look forward to!

From the above it is cleat to me that the Better Choice Bundle Discount was not deducted from my bill, so, what discount was deducted or service added for the bill to increase? (God only knows!) I can't now remember exactly the amount of the increase, my wife told me at the time, but whatever, I'm history now and the way I see it they won't have a chance to stick-it-to-me one more time when the Better Choice Bundle Discount is finally discontinued (unless one accepts their contract offer).]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22353495 Thu, 07 May 2009 11:38:50 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22353058 Robrr : I should add to my previous post that that cost is for SD programming.

As soon as I start looking at HD, a gap starts to develop between Rogers and *Choice in terms of costs.

With Rogers, I would need to add their HD speciality pack which would add an extra $2/month to the bill as well as the cost of the STB is more as well. (I would buy the STB) I may also have to look at getting the NASCAR Hot Pass as well which would cost me a bit more yet.

Comparatively speaking with *Choice, I could get the same programming as I can from Rogers with my bill coming in at $70/month.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22353058 Thu, 07 May 2009 10:18:26 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22352947 anon : Although I had chucked Rogers Cable TV last week, (or was it the week before?) they called yesterday (it was a prerecorded canvasing call) to advise me that if I didn't phone them at a number provided I would be losing my bundles discount!! (NOTE: they had already advised me this was going to happen in a letter dated 6 April, the letter that started this thread). No mention in the telephone spiel of having to agree to a two year contract in order to retain the discount though, (Why am I not surprised? I'll bet the contract requirement is still there, as it was in the letter, but just not mentioned 'till after you're biting on their hook at the other end of the line.) So now I'm left thinking, if they hadn't yet yanked the discount on me, which seems to be indicated by the phone call, then why did my bill increase last time around? I know there was an increase the month before, their annual rip, but now I don't know why I was clipped extra last month if in fact the bundle discount hadn't yet been removed? Think maybe they were gonna try to get away with removing it twice? I just don't know and now it doesn't really matter.....

And oh, as an after thought, last night I received a letter promoting Rogers Home Phone! Like I'm gonna run right out and sign up!! NO THANKS fellas, not a chance, for my land line I'll stay with the devil I know.....Bell! It's taken time but I've learned my lesson, one "service" from Rogers is definitely enough.....]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22352947 Thu, 07 May 2009 09:52:09 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22352894 Robrr : Well I am up for doing some comparisons of what people are subscribing too:

I currently have the Rogers VIP package with the Sports Pack added onto it. My bill is approx $75/month. This also includes a 12 month VIP discount as I upgraded my cable back in the winter. Without the discount I would be looking at about $81/month.

edit: incorrect prices given]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22352894 Thu, 07 May 2009 09:41:05 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22352625 sbrook : Pardon? I have priced both EV and *Choice ... because of the difference in format of their packages (particularly *Choice) I would pay up to twice as much as cable no matter to get the channel choice that we regularly watch, along with a load of channels we wouldn't get and wouldn't watch. I checked it out a few years ago, and I checked it out a few weeks ago.

So, I don't know what it is that you watch that make sat cheaper!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22352625 Thu, 07 May 2009 08:34:28 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22351945 jyeung :
said by Friendly Lurker :

Could they be beating Rogers by that much even for HD or does my selected bundle have that much more content?
From what I find, cable is generally more expensive than the satellite options, no matter how you calculate it.

- Jason]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22351945 Thu, 07 May 2009 00:31:26 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22349015 Robrr : maybe they scrapped the idea *shrug*]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22349015 Wed, 06 May 2009 14:40:04 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22348741 sbrook : My latest bill (closing date in may) has no reference to changes in the Better Choice Bundles program.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22348741 Wed, 06 May 2009 13:54:45 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22346622 anon : That's not bad at all. Sounds really competitive.
For Rogers ("VIP Ultimate & Movie Package" ... TMN / MPix movie, time shift, most specialty channels) I pay $89 pre-taxes including 3 discounts (1 for the selected movie bundle, 1 for VIP and another for the Better choice 15% discount) with box charges also removed but that's only for SD service. It would be higher with HD. Also, if I didn't have the 15% discount that amount would go up to $102 before taxes.

Could they be beating Rogers by that much even for HD or does my selected bundle have that much more content?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22346622 Wed, 06 May 2009 03:00:19 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22341433 anon : A P.S. to my post above....

In addition I forgot to mention a programming credit of $75. was given for the first HD receiver purchased and $25 for each of the other two, that included the 'free' SD receiver, for a total programming credit of $125 applicable on the first bill and if there's still credit not used the second bill.

Also, a credit of $50. is provided for PPV movies and must be used in the first 90 days of service.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22341433 Tue, 05 May 2009 09:11:18 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22341415 anon : Just to follow along with this thread.....

I managed to get in contact with a *Choice (Shaw Direct) "door-to-door man" Friday past, thank you to the previous poster for this suggestion, great advice, paid dividends! I managed this by going to the *Choice website the night before and using the "Ask Jim" input box provided and requested the *Choice rep contact information for my area. They responded (from Calgary I think) via e-mail sometime Friday a.m. that he would be in touch with me shortly. By Friday p.m. we were talking.

He gave me a brief description of what *Choice could offer and the prices he was able to give for equipment and services. He also e-mailed me a confirmation of the equipment pricing and the programming package he has to offer for Ontario residents.

To make a long story short the "door-to-door man" was able to supply me with two HD and a single SD receiver (the SD receiver was free under a promotion that ended yesterday), the dish and installation for $200. total. (By comparison the local communications shop that handles *Choice had quoted me the same price for a single HD receiver system installed just a couple of weeks past.)

As for programming, I was offered the 'Ontario Extra Value Pack' for $39. (A package somewhat similar to the standard *Choice offering called the 'Digital Favourites Package' selling for $52. but with a lot of 'fluff' removed) To 'top-up' the programming to meet our needs it will be another $15. or so. In addition, the 'Movies' add-on (14 channels) is available for $15. Now, if I add that up I get around $69. To this there is a monthly 'multiple receiver' charge of $5, bringing the total to $74., just a couple of bucks more than I paid Rogers each month and I have the Movies channels (which I never had before), should I decide to add them!.

So, in summary to this point, so far, so good.

NOTE: All TAXES extra to the prices noted above.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22341415 Tue, 05 May 2009 09:05:45 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22341019 Sunfox : My billing period is after mid-month and received my bill at the end of April... cable & internet, 15% discount for ages now. No changes or notice of changes.

Like you, I better not have anything change on my account. I spend a fortune on cable TV, and my bill just went up $7.50 during Rogers' annual April price increase (seriously, every April it goes up).]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22341019 Tue, 05 May 2009 05:46:45 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22322641 anon : My billing period is just after mid month. I'm on the better choice bundle for a few years with vip TMN / MPix movie, time shift, specialty channels and internet Express. I get 15% on both cable and internet. I received my statement near April month end for service up to May 17th with no notice of change. Also no separate notice received. Is everyone affected or is this happening by region? If the date of May 11 2009 holds I better not get a surprise on my next bill Their terms of service printed on my statement say that changes can be made by them only after notifying the client and the only recourse is acceptance or cancellation of the service.

If I get the notice I'm canceling the internet service right away, I have another much cheaper option but I'll probably keep the cable tv a bit longer although I might also reduce some tv services. I will then take some time to study the satellite options. Quite a few of my neighbors have switched to dishes in the past few years and they seem satisfied so I do have some people to consult about their providers and home setup.

This might turn out to be a good things. My 4 boxes are getting old and some buttons on the remotes are getting hard to press. I'm just about to switch to hdtv and this might force my hand as to what equipment I want for the next few years. I prefer to buy rather than rent the boxes. The only thing is that I would need 4 receivers and I'm not sure of the cost. I don't use or need dvr / pvr.

I also wonder if you can use the existing cable wire installed in the house to run the satellite signal or do you need a different type of cable?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22322641 Fri, 01 May 2009 04:30:21 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22321070 anon : Received our bill from Rogers today and called them immediately to cancel cable service as the amount billed has increased again, the first time was last month, and I did tell them I was outta there if that should happen. (See my first post, the first in this thread). I will be installing *Choice satellite sometime before mid May, when the cable service is terminated by Robbers, and will NEVER, and I do mean NEVER, return to Robbers again. I have to maintain the high speed cable internet for the time being but believe me, if there ever comes an alternative to Robbers out this way I'll be the first to jump ship! (But I'm not holding my breath). ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22321070 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 19:57:28 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22300985 anon : Wolfe. I lived in Orleans a couple years ago and had nothing but headaches getting a clear signal when weather was bad with ExpressVu. When I had to miss a playoff game because of it, I cancelled the service & made the switch to Rogers (I was already using Rogers Extreme Internet). It was the best decision I ever made ! I'll never go back to Bell ExpressVu again, in part because of the poor signal I was receiving, and in part because of their lack of taking any sort of action in helping me do something about it.

I recommend you go with Rogers. There isn't really an alternative. They're not perfect, but at least ehy aren't Bell (which is what their slogan should be).]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22300985 Mon, 27 Apr 2009 02:47:02 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22290204 elwoodblues : Commercials don't change with being OTA(or FTA), you just don't see the Rogers commercials]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22290204 Fri, 24 Apr 2009 13:55:10 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22287538 sbrook : You have no choice for cable itself - Rogers .

If you want other than the local channels then you need cable or satellite. Satellite is the evil Bell or StarChoice (Now known as ShawDirect)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22287538 Thu, 23 Apr 2009 22:34:00 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22286967 anon : Have had Bell Express View in the past and would never go back to them, would go without before ever allowing them to step foot in my house. They were a disaster! A total disaster!

Presently have Robbers Cable TV and High Speed Internet (Express). Am preparing to jump ship with the Cable TV and would also do so with the internet at the same time but I have no alternative for HS service out here so I have to stay with Robbers for now. Have not totally precluded dial-up but....The decision to drop the cable is not based on the quality of the service so much as the attitude of Rogers as a company.

When I change from Rogers cable I will go with Star Choice satellite. Reviews I have read for the most part are good and the channel selection that would work for us is reasonably priced. The initial installation price including High Def. receiver is reasonable also, $200 +/- a bit. Additionally there's no contracts! Again they're not perfect but they can't be like Rogers....

Read through the Rogers forums here and you'll get an idea of what to expect from Rogers as a company. There's good, there's bad and there's ugly. From my perspective it would be in the order of 10%, 40% and 50% respectively, however, someone else's mileage might vary.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22286967 Thu, 23 Apr 2009 20:38:14 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22283428 anon : My wife & I are in the process of moving to Orleans in June. I'm reading all the reviews possible in trying to decide which cable provider to use once we get there...

My brother in law lives in Ottawa & is currently with Bell and is up in arms for having left Rogers because of all the downtime he has when the weather is bad & the dish isn't cooperating...

I'm currently with Videotron in Montreal and although I've liked their service, it seems to me that all providers have one gripe or another against them for either the quality of their service or customer service (or lack thereof).

I was looking forward to our move & hook-up with Rogers but with what I've been able to read, I'm not too sure now...

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Mark]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22283428 Thu, 23 Apr 2009 08:49:20 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22280439 anon : I have HD plus Express Internet and I got the discount removed, or so I believe, (the next bill will tell_, in fact I started this thread when I received the notification the bundle was gone. But not to sweat, I have now had the chance to investigate * Choice and can get it fully installed with HD receiver and two outlets for $200. A program package of essentials plus most popular premium channels they have available for $59.99/mo will do me fine and is less than I presently pay Robbers. With the increase last month plus the possible extra I will have to pay due to the loss of the discount for bundles this coming month and the reduced monthly payment I will have the cost of the the * Choice installation with HD receiver recovered in less than a year. After that I start to "make" money. Now it's just a case of wait and see what surprise Robbers has for me on my next bill before I pack up and go satellite. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22280439 Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:49:09 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22279175 mlerner :
* Eligible services include Rogers Wireless, Personal TV, High-Speed Internet, and Home Phone consumer plans. Portable Internet and Internet are considered one service. Having these 2 services only does not Qualify for the Better Choice Bundles discount. Rogers Home Phone and Internet phone (VOIP) are also considered as one service. Having these 2 services only does not qualify for the Better Choice Bundles discount either. Basic Cable only does not qualify for Better Choice Bundles discount and is not discounted for such customers who otherwise qualify for discount.
»www.your.rogers.com/store/bundles/main.asp

My interpretation is analog cable does not apply to the discount.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22279175 Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:01:11 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22278409 Robrr : I dunno. I only have two services with Rogers at the moment ( Digital cable, Wireless) and am getting the discount on the cable.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22278409 Wed, 22 Apr 2009 11:51:58 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22278401 sbrook : Are they only hitting certain levels to remove them from bundles??? Like if you have analogue cable only?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22278401 Wed, 22 Apr 2009 11:49:51 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22278326 Robrr : Bill came today but no notice about the Better Choice Bundle. Hmm ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22278326 Wed, 22 Apr 2009 11:36:08 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22268406 Goggles9 : Ive been looking into OTA for a while now, and it might be the way to go as Im not worried about having 100+ channels anymore.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22268406 Mon, 20 Apr 2009 18:43:31 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22268188 jyeung : That's why I use OTA. Perfectly legal and free, and no need to deal with crappy simsubs.

Re: Shaw Direct/Starchoice. You need to look for the door to door salesmen or find a contact number for one of them. digitalhome.ca should have more on this stuff in their forums.

- Jason
--
instelink | home telephone, high speed internet, long distance]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22268188 Mon, 20 Apr 2009 18:10:38 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22267986 Goggles9 : Did you read my post right, I only mentioned Rogers on the slip streaming and complaints, I know where the commercials come from, why don't you count how many commercials you see in 1 hour to actual programming, Im going to assume you think your getting value for the money you pay.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22267986 Mon, 20 Apr 2009 17:38:06 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22267904 travisc : Commercials have little to do with Rogers. When they put their own commercials in, they're putting them in over top of American commercials. Certain US channels provide a couple minutes per hour that Rogers can do this.

If you're going legit FTA, great. If you're going the illegal FTA route, then the commercial thing is just a weak attempt to excuse thievery.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22267904 Mon, 20 Apr 2009 17:26:20 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22266554 sbrook : Was it indeed? Mine was 1 year.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22266554 Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:41:10 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22266211 anon : @ sbrook: actually the better choice bundle discount has always been 2yrs.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22266211 Mon, 20 Apr 2009 12:44:24 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22265457 Goggles9 : After my Rogers services end in May, I am most likely moving to FTA tv, for the simple reason, Im not going to pay for tv with the amount of commercials being throwen at us, its almost to the point of abuse, those swiffer wet jet and proactive zit cream commercials are driving me nuts, then Rogers is slip streaming their own commercials, sorry but Im not paying good money to watch commercials.
I expect Rogers to counter to the commercial complaints with something like, "it keeps the cable tv cost for the consumer down".]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22265457 Mon, 20 Apr 2009 10:36:44 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22258905 anon : Could you clarify for me just what exactly you are referring to by a "direct sales agent". Do you mean for example a communications company that sells and installs Star Choice equipment or do you mean something else? I have located a communications equipment/systems retailer who carries and installs Star Choice equipment among other brands for other applications, i.e. internet via satellite, etc., is this the type of guy you are referring to. Sorry to be so dense but would appreciate your clarification.

TIA ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22258905 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 17:55:18 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22258652 Robrr : I will have to look around then and see what I can find. I am in the west end of Toronto so if I find anything I will let you know.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22258652 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 16:46:00 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22258573 jyeung : Yes they do. In fact, they're still hiring for some. I haven't seen them around too much, but they're still there. Depending on your area, they have different packages that are quite decent.

- Jason]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22258573 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 16:26:28 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22258545 Robrr : Do they still have direct sales agents??? I haven't seen a piece of marketing material from Starchoice/Shaw Direct in ages.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22258545 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 16:18:26 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22258423 jyeung : What I would strongly recommend if you switch to Shaw Direct: before you do anything, find the number of a DIRECT SALES AGENT!

Those door-to-door sales reps can offer amazing packages that the regular CSRs cannot. You might be able to do a search online and find one in your area.

- Jason
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instelink | home telephone, high speed internet, long distance]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22258423 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 15:37:34 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22258179 Labonza : I read the letter from that link. I wonder if a copy of this contract was sent with it?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22258179 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 14:18:19 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22257878 Robrr : Ok so I have looked this over some more and it looks like the Starchoice option is looking better and better.

I currently subscribe to the Rogers VIP service and have all the specialty packs. The total cost for this is about $85/month. I have no HD content with Rogers

According to the Starchoice website, I can get their gold level service with all the HD content they offer and all the same channels I have with Rogers (give or take a few) for about $75/month and no contract. There is a $215 charge upfront for the receiver and installation is free.

I think I will be looking to make a switch next week :)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22257878 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 12:57:47 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22257343 sbrook : Yeah ... a year. But most of us on this bundle have more than given way more than our year ... ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22257343 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 10:38:58 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22257322 anon : it's not really a new twist, the bundle discount has always required a term.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22257322 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 10:28:33 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22256872 anon : The article hits the nail on the head, it's a slap in the face alright and this time there should be a collective "We aren't gonna take it anymore", but unfortunately as we're Canadians there won't be and Robbers, as others like them, know it! If a company pulled this same sort of thing against folks south of the border there's be hell-a-poppin', but of course they have guns! Our problem is we will not band together and act as a cohesive group so that when things like this occur we could "pull" 40 - 50 - maybe 100,000 or more Customers over a week or so in retaliation. Call it a consumer's union if you like, whatever it's called it could potentially pack some clout, as we all know there's strength in numbers. Maybe that guy who heads up the CAW could organize it, he may be looking for work shortly. It would be a real treat to sick him on Mr. Mohammed and his pack of thieves. Only when companies like this are hit in their wallets will they scream and until such time they will continue to run roughshod over their Customers and fleece them at every opportunity. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22256872 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 06:56:01 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255730 anon : For those who haven't been lucky enough to receive this letter yet, check this out:

»www.digitalhome.ca/content/view/3607/279/]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255730 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 21:43:34 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255684 Robrr : Well I figure my current package is pretty much the gold service.

I can for about $70/month have the gold service with all the HD content that Starchoice offers and have all the regular tv shows that I watch. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255684 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 21:32:44 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255495 anon : Got that same impression when I had a quick look at the offerings yesterday - i.e. it may cost more for the same. Can't say for sure what "premium" I might have awaiting me yet, too early to say, but as noted in an earlier post, an additional $20 per month isn't out of the question. It would be worth it just for the satisfaction of knowing that Robbers isn't getting to put my money in their bank account!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255495 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 20:46:01 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255462 anon : Chances are if you request a copy of the contract they will refer you to some page on the net where the fine print will have you babbling like a baby after about four hours reading.

I seem to recollect hearing somewhere that the Robbers contract or TOS gives them the right to add to, delete from or otherwise amend the contract at any time they wish and the second party to the contract (the Customer) has to accept it. A like it or lump it situation for the Customer. A wee bit one sided but reflective of the way this crowd does business.

As for any sort of legal action you can be sure these monkeys have their bases covered. Anyone employing the business practices they do has to. Anyway, I'm not about to waste my time with these a$$holes. They have my response to the letter and they know if my bill is $0.01 over my last months bill it's bye-bye blackbird, my account's history!

The fact that they have been allowed to establish themselves as they have, all but forming a monopoly, is a travesty but what can ya do? That's our governments for ya.

There, now I've had my rant I can go watch something on U-Tube.........'cause there's generally nothing worthwhile on Robbers cable!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255462 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 20:38:55 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255443 sbrook : StarChoice is now Shaw direct.

The problem is for what they charge for the channels I want, because they're spread across so many packages, I'd have to pay over $80 per month to get what I am from Robbers for around $60. This has always been the problem with StarChoice ... their bundling is a ripoff for some and perfect for otehrs.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255443 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 20:32:51 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255432 Robrr : I plan on investigating this as well. I will post an update once I have all the info :)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255432 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 20:29:49 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255366 anon : Haven't compared pricing at all for what you get with *Choice vs Robbers, will do shortly. But with me it's reached the point where even if it cost me an extra $20. / month I'd gladly give it to * Choice as to that mob of media gangsters in Toronto. I'm just so fed up with them and their "Customers can go to hell" attitude. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255366 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 20:15:34 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255347 Labonza : When this happens ie-get a letter about a "contract",I'm going to make them send me a copy of it because I wont agree to any "contract" unless I read it first.

We should all do the same.And be aware of the fact that being forced into a contract under duress is illegal.Though I'm sure Roger's TOS makes them think that consumer protection laws dont apply to them.

Depending on how this is worded and how aggressively they push this,this could be grounds for a class-action suit.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255347 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 20:12:04 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255323 anon : Thank you, great feedback, helps this old man.... ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22255323 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 20:09:30 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22254937 Robrr : I was looking at Starchoice today and I think I might investigate that option some more. It looks like it might work out cheaper for me than having cable for all the same channels. :)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22254937 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:50:50 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22254810 anon : Heya JAC70. Just an example of what I've seen with Rogers over the years, although it's a little dated, here's a little review of what I've actually gone through with them and my $99 / month 18Mbps line:

»www.dmplace.com/rogers_overview.html

It is better now, but I still have the same kind of crazy swings, inconsistency, and incredibly poor support (and no, I have no delusions that Bell support is any better). Shrug.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22254810 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:17:10 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22254784 anon : Hi JAC70. Possibly, will have to wait and see.

On the other hand, I don't get consistency with my 18Mbps line with Rogers either, depends on the day, time of day, and where the moon is in the sky.

Last night at 2am I was getting about 16Mbps down on my 18Mbps line (totally acceptable). Right now, I'm getting 9Mbps.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22254784 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:11:18 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22254656 no access : I've had *choice for about 5 years. I've been happy with them. Remember that if you want Expressview, Bell makes you sign a contract. Bell and robbers are pretty much the same company. Why leave one to join the other?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22254656 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 17:45:03 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22252660 rt3 : I've been with Starchoice for 9 years, nothing but great service, both customer and TV.

I'll never switch, it comes down to five simple words

"They care about their customers."]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22252660 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 12:08:23 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22252027 Robrr : Cant wait for my Rogers bill next week. I might just have to cut them out of some more money if I get this notice as well. :)

They just lost $60/month for internet so why not knock some of my cable bill off as well. :)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22252027 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 10:28:15 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22252008 JAC70 : I'd be surprised if you get anywhere near the 16mbps with Bell.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22252008 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 10:24:08 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22250561 anon : Hey MadAsHeck,

Join the club. :-) Got my little notice yesterday from Rogers. I've got cable and net access with them (18Mbps line) and they killing my 15% discount and trying to strong arm me into a 5% discount IF I agree to a 2 yr contract? Without the contract they want to jack my monthly rate up then by $30 + tax? Ding. Wrong.

So, I said screw it. Ordered my 16Mbps line from Bell, with a deal price of $62.95 / month. I lose 2Mbps worth of speed (won't really notice), save $40+ tax a month, and Rogers loses $1212 + tax per year in business. Screw'em.

Next up ... killing my cable services.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22250561 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:06:26 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22250100 anon : I received the same letter yesterday and am absolutely fuming mad over it....especially after I threatened a few months ago to leave when they sent the letters out about the rate increases in March. They ended up giving me a few discounts here and there for a year for being a loyal customer and foolishly, that appeased me.

Now....not much more than 3 months later, another letter arrives stating that the bundle discounts (that I always thought I had) had actually ended in 2007 but they've just continued to give me the discounts out of the goodness of their hearts (bless them). Now, they can no longer do this unless I agree to a 2 year contract.

I've had it!!! I don't care what it costs up front with another company, I simply cannot justify staying with this company anymore.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22250100 Thu, 16 Apr 2009 22:24:47 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22243515 anon : You might be right but I'm in a "hole", actually the Grand River Valley. I would need a 100' tower to be of any use. The first 30' - 40' would just get me up to the ground elevation "outside" of this "ditch".

Years back I had one of the "old" satellite systems but things change with time and it went by the boards about a decade ago. I went to Express View after the dish then to Rogers. Now it looks like I'll be heading back to a dish.

I've got 6 weeks or so to research so there's no rush at the moment.
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22243515 Wed, 15 Apr 2009 21:23:05 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22242116 travisc : Not all HD programming on Shaw Direct (Star Choice) is free. Most providers have a group of free HD channels, and then you pay more for the rest.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22242116 Wed, 15 Apr 2009 16:57:33 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22239490 CFoo : In Kitchener, can't you receive HDTV over the air? Especially being so close to the border, I would suspect if you use an HDTV antenna you would be able to pickup many US HDTV channels. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22239490 Wed, 15 Apr 2009 09:45:03 EDT Re: New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22237813 jyeung : Satellite TV providers: Bell TV and Starchoice (soon to be Shaw Direct).

I'm not a fan of Bell support, and Starchoice is pretty much #1 for customer service, so I recommend them. HD programming is free on Starchoice as well - not sure about Bell. Their equipment doesn't seem to be as robust as the Echostar one that Bell uses though.

Your best bet would be to visit digitalhome.ca and take a look at the Starchoice and Bell TV forums there.

- Jason]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22237813 Tue, 14 Apr 2009 22:11:42 EDT New Twist to Discounts http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22236816 anon : For the past few years I've apparently been given a 5% 'bundle' discount on the Robbers services I subscribe to, Internet Express and Cable. Today I received a notice that unless I call in and agree to a two year contract this discount will be discontinued on my next bill.

Well, I called in alright but not to accept their ultimatium, instead I told them that if my bill changed by so much as $0.01 Rogers would be in receipt of my notice and I'd be off to satellite TV.

So, in preparation for my liberation from Robbers oppression I'd sure appreciate if anyone out there would give some input as to the good, bad and ugly of the satellite TV providers. I'm located in S. W. Ontario, not far from Kitchener.

Thanks in advance.......]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,22236816 Tue, 14 Apr 2009 19:22:24 EDT