If you have Directv, today through Monday is free HBO and Cinemax. Enjoy!
Sorry but I'll take Comcast 100 times over.
I've had Directv since Dec. 1996 and it's been rock solid. The only time I lose the signal is during a really bad thunderstorm (usually for 5 minutes or so; it comes back on by itself) and if the dish gets heavy wet snow on it (my dish is attached to the deck rail so I just go out and brush it off).
I can't speak to Comcast as I've never had their service. I have been to friends' houses that have Metrocast and the digital artifacting/pixelatization would drive me up a wall.