It's about the same. Even without access to local broadcasts, satellite service has grown steadily in popularity since the 18-inch antenna dish was introduced in 1995. According to industry reports, satellite programing subscriptions have risen to 8.9 million from the first-year level of 1.8 million. Among the driving factors, industry analysts agree, is the wide range of sports packages offered as satellite options. Special sports packages are strong lures.
Similar deals are available for professional baseball and basketball and major college sports.
Dealers have experienced some frustration of their own over the erratic pricing of satellite receivers. In fact, I can't think of a single instance where we've had to tell somebody it just wouldn't work. But sometimes cable can go places where satellite can't. Apartment buildings are a problem for satellite since each dwelling requires a separate dish. Sanfemio says gated communities with strict esthetic codes have actually been less problematic because the little dishes are easily concealed.