The only time I ever have a problem is when there is a major thunderstorm, the video goes out for a couple mins (and only on certain channels), but the sound is still there. When I had cable and it went out, it was out for hrs, sometimes days. I also like the guide feature of satelite. I can see whats on for the entire day, and put a check next to shows I want to watch. It'll automatically change the channel for me as each show comes on in case I forget. The 40 free no commercial music channels are nice too. Fuk cable!