Friday, May 1, 2009

Why pay for TV?

Dale and I cancelled our TV almost 2 years ago. We bought a pair of bunny ears and watched whatever channels we could pick up. Then we used a coupon to go digital, and the quality drastically improved – in fact, unless it's really windy, our picture is just as good as cable. Not to mention, most TV shows are available online now.
So here's the thing – I know people like speciality channels so they can watch TopChef or Design on a Dime or Mythbusters. But there just isn't enough programming to really make those channels worthwhile. Last spring, Dale and I were in Amherst for his graduation and we flipped on the TV, fully intending to enjoy our cable selections. Of our 3 favorite cable channels, all three shows were reruns. Yes, after a year of no cable, our first opportunity to watch cable was old programming. Oh, and at our gym, we have a selection of cable channels. I've been really enjoying catching up on Frasier, Will & Grace, and the Cosby show. Are you kidding me? People are paying money to companies which are basically putting out miniscule quantities of new material! It's like the cable company's fantasy!
Now, I know sports fans like to watch their games, and for that you need cable. But sadly, you have to get all the channels. Another racket. The cable companies don't want you to be able to select just the channels you want – that free market system might make crappy channels that depend on reruns die!
Sure, it's a little inconvenient when wind makes the reception choppy. And yeah, occasionally we miss watching our favorite cable channels. But on the other hand, I no longer have the desire to make my house look like a showroom, cook fantastic meals in 30 minutes, or constantly buy the latest fashions. Sounds like a good trade-off for me...
Oh, and this is by no means a slam on people who have cable. Just my rambling thoughts about it...

1 comment:

Mom said...

We like our cable. But we don't take all the channels that are available. We do have a choice.