Finding a DirecTV Satellite System could be confusing to some. With the vast variety of options available to the consumer, picking the right package requires some due diligence from the consumers end. Here’s a list of features that you should look for in a complete DirecTV system.

First, you have to decide which receiver you want to have. DirecTV offers three types of receivers: a standard version, one with a DVR (digital video recorder), and one that has the capability to provide HDTV (high definition television). With stiff competition with Dish Network, DirecTV is offering these options to beat out their competition. Here is more information on DirecTV’s DSS (Digital Satellite System) receivers:

DirecTV Standard Receivers

With the standard package, you get DirecTV Active which provides horoscopes, lottery updates, pay-per-view information and other personalized information. It also provides an EPG (electronic program guide) which is like your digital version of a TV guide. If you have children, you’ll be happy that you can control what they can view with parental controls.

DirecTV DVR Receivers

With the DirecTV Plus DVR unit, you’ll be able to record up to 100 hours of digital programming. Forget the days of VCR’s. You’ll be able to easily skip commercials and watch TV according to your schedule. Also, you can watch a program while recording another. This is the true benefit with the integrated dual tuners. You can easily bookmark the TV show or movie that your viewing. This allows you to go back and resume your program.

DirecTV HDTV Receivers

With these receivers, you’ll be able to receive the best resolution as possible. HD provides more than 2 times the resolution than a standard broadcast does. What this means is a crisper picture quality. Also, since the signal is digital, you could forget the days of TV reception fuzz. Your television must have the capability to display HD signals. You also have the capability of getting crystal clear digital 5.1 audio.

Getting the Best of Both Worlds

Instead of deciding if you want the DVR or HDTV package, why not get the best of both worlds. You can get the DirecTV Plus HD DVR system. Now, you’ll be able to record 2 programs at the same time and still have the capability of watching another program. You can record up to 200 hours in standard resolution and up to 50 hours in high definition mode. This HD DVR system is made for hardcore TV enthusiasts!

Preparing for the Future

With better technology always coming in to the picture, you may want to get the latest components for your HD system. If you want the best in HD, you’ll also want to get the top satellite dish. This is the DirecTV AT9 KaKu-5 LNB HDTV dish. It will allow you to get the latest MPEG-4 signals along with more HD programming. Although you can upgrade your current dish with a Sat-C kit or a Phase III dish, you’ll be wasting money if you do so when DirecTV adds more HD programming in the future.

For more information on the wide variety of receivers, please review our DirecTV Top Provider’s website.