I just got off the phone and thought I'd share this here as this COULD affect several of you. For the last several years, I've just gotten Sunday Ticket by itself (without the base package) and then the last 2 years, added the high def package (channels 72-79) for like $9.99 a month. I was happy with this as I didn't want or need a base package, and they said as long as I didn't make any changes to my service (either package wise or getting new equipment) I'd auto-renew each year and not have to get a base package like all new customers.
Well as many of you know, in September, they will be launching the new satellite and high def channels, and if your current HD receiver is a a year or two old like mine (Model H10, which I bought new in October of 2005) you will no longer be able to get the HD games or channels without upgrading to a new HD receiver.
Of course, they will upgrade your HD receiver for free, but with that change, I'd no longer be able to get JUST the Sunday Ticket and would HAVE to get the base package.

And of course, to be able to get all these new HD channels, you'll need to get the base package that is $49.95 a month (the $29.95 a month doesn't have ESPN, and most of the good new high def stuff!)
I guess I've been spoiled the last few years that I've only had to spend $9.99 a month for ESPN,ESPN2 and the few other high def channels, and my Sunday Ticket, and now I'll HAVE to spend $49.95 a month, plus $5.95 if I want the Tivo service, PLUS the cost of Sunday Ticket.
The best offer they gave me to continue the service (I told them I was seriously thinking about canceling) was the following:
Free upgraded HD receiver (but I pay $19.95 for shipping) and new satellite
Free Tivo (250 GB)
$10 off for the next 12 months
6 months of the TIVO service for free (normally $5.95 a month)
Free SuperFan
Does this seem like a decent offer? Has anyone gotten a better one? Any suggestions? With a new baby on the way, just trying to keep costs down.