We offer our clients budget options for installing satellite television (TV) without a subscription fee - digital quality for 0 rubles! Watching the main package of federal channels without paying a penny for it is a profitable solution for viewers who care not about the quantity, but about the quality of satellite TV channels.
Of course, the number of free TV programs depends on the satellite operator. In this article we will conduct a comparative analysis of existing offers on the Russian satellite TV market, identify the pros and cons of the main operators, and provide comparative characteristics...
What is on the satellite TV market?
Despite the general similarity of the main satellite companies, there are still differences between them, and sometimes very serious ones. We will consider popular offers from: Tricolor TV, NTV Plus, Continent TV, Telekarta TV. Whom to give preference in the end is up to you.
Each operator will be assessed according to the following criteria:
- connection price - the cost of a set of equipment with standard installation;
- number of free channels;
- list of free channels;
- starting (gift) deposit – the initial (gift) amount in the subscriber’s account to pay for additional packages and services;
- maximum number of TV channels.
Satellite television without a monthly fee is ideal for people who do not chase a huge number of TV channels. Connecting a satellite television set is possible almost anywhere in the world, which benefits the owners of country houses, dachas, as well as owners of remote cafes and hotels. The quality of the image broadcast from the satellite is an order of magnitude higher than that of the broadcast. You will forever forget about image noise and sound hissing.
For open channels, the user pays exactly 0.00 rubles. Please note that each of the presented satellite operators, depending on the amount of the deposit, gives from six months to a year of free viewing of the main package of TV channels.
After the expiration of the term, the subscriber decides whether to renew his subscription or be content with free federal TV channels.
If you noticed, NTV+ has the smallest number of open TV channels, but once you spend 600 rubles from your bonus deposit account, 15 TV channels are opened for you on an indefinite basis, among which the most popular are: “First”, “Russia”, TNT, STS, Karusel , NTV, Disney and others.
Choosing a dealer to install a set of satellite equipment
There are a huge number of companies on the market offering professional services for the installation of satellite equipment. Choosing “the one” is sometimes not easy, but by getting answers to three simple questions, you will significantly save your time and money:
- Is this an official dealer?
- How many subscribers have already used its services?
- What guarantees do you ultimately receive?
By spending just 5 minutes, you can make a firm decision about whether you should cooperate with this company or not.
The best satellite TV sets according to user reviews
Until quite recently, only a country resident had any sense in installing a satellite dish. In cities, it was much easier to connect to cable or digital television. This was explained by the fact that many were frightened by the cost of the kit itself, which included a plate of a certain diameter and a receiver that recognizes the incoming signal and decrypts it. But recently the price of such kits has dropped significantly. In addition, now many people can do without a receiver, since the DVB-S2 signal is understood by every TV, unless it is a budget one. We will tell you about the best satellite television sets below.
Which company to choose a satellite TV set?
Theoretically, you can buy some nameless satellite dish and ask the technician to tune in to any satellite you choose. Some of them broadcast foreign TV, while others are able to please you with a mass of domestic channels. However, in most cases, many TV channels will be encrypted. To view them, you will need a subscription, after which you will be issued a special card that is inserted into the receiver or TV. Therefore, it is much easier to immediately order a ready-made satellite TV set - this way you will spend much less nerves and time.
The satellite television market in Russia is characterized by intense competition. Because of it, the well-known Rikor TV and Raduga TV left the market in 2014 - they simply did not have enough money to obtain a license.
Now residents of our country have the opportunity to connect to the following operators:
2. “Orion Express” (“Telecard”)
Each of these operators has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. You can make a choice only by examining in detail the offers and tariffs of all operators. It should be noted that prices for the kits themselves may vary in different regions. After all, for example, in remote Siberia it may be necessary to install a larger antenna, while in central Europe the capabilities of a 60-centimeter “dish” will suffice.
How to choose satellite equipment?
A large number of available channels and a high-quality signal are the main advantages of good satellite TV.
Operator
To install satellite TV, first of all, you should decide on the operator that broadcasts satellite channels. Today there are a large number of them, but the most common of them are NTV-plus, Tricolor TV, Platform HD, MTC-TB, Telekarta (Orion Express), REMO TV and others.
For detailed information, you need to familiarize yourself with the rating of the best satellite TV sets of 2021, where all the information about each operator with advantages and disadvantages is presented in detail.
Equipment
When choosing a satellite dish, you should not get hung up on the small diameter of the dish because of the low price. For example, if you purchase a TV package, then an antenna with a size of less than 90 cm will not reliably catch a signal from the satellite, and the picture will be distorted. In bad weather, the signal may disappear completely.
Receiver
The main criteria for choosing a receiver are the function that opens encodings and built-in add-ons, such as a module or hard drive. When deciding on a given device, it’s worth finding out what and how many encodings it can open. After all, the larger the list, the more channels it will unblock.
The receiver must be equipped with a slot for connecting special cards, which make it possible to receive a signal of any encoding. For example, if you have a TV device, then by connecting a Viaccess encoded module to it, you can open NTV-plus channels. This is possible thanks to the common broadcast satellite of the operators. In general, the more slots, the more operators, which means there will be more channels.
If the receiver is equipped with a huge number of encodings, then it is better to buy an antenna with a rotating function. This will allow you to use multiple satellites.
If the device is equipped with a hard drive, you can watch movies and programs in automatic mode. This functionality will allow you to record, for example, a selected TV show to watch in your free time.
Today, among popular models you can find options that allow you to record from one channel and watch your favorite movie in another. If there is a USB output, everything recorded can be transferred to a computer.
The best satellite TV packages
Tricolor STV-0.55
It is not for nothing that Tricolor TV is the largest satellite television operator in Russia. Now more than 12 million subscribers are connected to it. And all because the operator offers an excellent picture for little money. Moreover, you can watch some TV channels for free, without having to subscribe! But that's not all! The operator is trying in every possible way to reduce prices for the equipment with which the connection is made. A good example of this is the Tricolor STV-0.55 kit. As of February 2021, for this 55-centimeter “dish” with a converter and bracket they are asking 1,500 rubles. However, your TV must understand the DVB-S2 standard, otherwise you will have to look towards a more expensive set, complemented by a set-top box-receiver.
This antenna performs ideally in the central part of Russia. Its small size does not affect the quality of the picture in any way. As for the operator himself, there is little point in talking about him in detail. It is enough to know that it offers over 200 TV channels, of which more than 30 are broadcast in Full HD resolution. The disadvantage of Tricolor TV is strictly temporary and concerns only old subscribers. The fact is that in April 2021, the transfer of broadcasting from the MPEG-2 format to MPEG-4 was launched. Because of this, many people had to purchase a new receiver.
Advantages:
- Low cost of equipment;
- There are various free services;
- A number of channels can be watched for free;
- A large number of TV channels in different packages;
- There are TV channels for adults;
- It is possible to watch movies from the operator’s library.
Flaws:
- This kit includes only the antenna, bracket and converter;
- The antenna is not suitable for a region remote from the satellite.
NTV-Plus HD SIMPLE 2
Every football fan knows about the existence of NTV-Plus. The fact is that this operator has many of its own TV channels. Some of them broadcast various sports competitions, including football championships of many European countries. That is why every sports fan should choose NTV-Plus among satellite television operators.
At first glance, the above kit costs quite a lot of money. But this is if you don’t remember that each buyer receives a two-year subscription to the “Economy” package as a gift! The kit includes a 60 cm antenna, installation kit, HDMI cable, smart card and Opentech receiver - OHS 1740V. In a word, you will find everything you need in it. All that remains is to call a specialist who will accurately aim your “dish” at the desired satellite.
Advantages:
- Large number of sports channels;
- Movies premiere before their DVD release;
- Not a bad receiver;
- The kit contains everything you need to start watching TV;
- A large number of high definition channels;
- Two years of free viewing of the Economy package;
- Lots of themed packages to choose from.
Flaws:
- The cost of paid packages is quite high;
- For some people, the receiver doesn't last very long;
- The total number of channels is not very large.
Tricolor Full HD E501/C5911
Another kit for connecting to the Tricolor TV operator. But this is no longer just one “plate”. This set is intended for those whose TV does not understand the signals of modern satellite television. Moreover, the kit is designed to connect to two TVs at once! The fact is that the buyer will find a pair of receivers in the box - devices called GS E501 and GS C5911.
The largest receiver has advanced functionality. Well, a smaller device can be connected to that TV that you watch quite rarely. The only disadvantage of this kit is its very high cost. At the same time, the creators managed to save money - HDMI cables will have to be purchased separately.
Advantages:
- Large selection of free TV channels;
- Thematic packages that everyone can understand;
- Two receivers;
- One of the devices can record broadcasts;
- TimeShift function supported;
- Not very high cost of channels included in paid packages;
- There are erotic TV channels.
Flaws:
- A 55 cm antenna will not be enough in some regions;
- No HDMI cables included.
MTS No. 92
Mobile operator MTS entered the satellite television market relatively recently. In order to attract customers, he relied on channels broadcasting in Full HD resolution. MTS has more such TV channels than all other Russian operators. But, of course, watching them costs money.
The satellite TV set called MTS No. 92 has nothing superfluous. It includes a traditional 60 cm antenna, everything needed for its installation and a CAM module. The cable from the “dish” can be plugged into the TV if it understands the corresponding signal. Or you will have to buy a receiver separately, which, although it costs money, is not at all difficult. The only problem with the kit is that the operator imposes several thematic packages and services with it, which become paid after a month. Therefore, after connecting, you will have to go to the operator’s office to have packages with those channels that are simply not interesting for you turned off.
Advantages:
- A huge number of TV channels;
- There are channels broadcast in very high definition;
- There is a “Video on Demand” function.
Flaws:
- The operator imposes paid packages;
- In some regions, a 60-centimeter “plate” is not enough;
- You need a branded receiver - with a slot for a SIM card;
- Not the most convenient official site.
Telecard HD GLOBO X8 0.6m
As the name implies, this kit includes a 60 cm satellite dish. The buyer also receives a receiver capable of recognizing video streams in the DVB-S and DVB-S2 standards. The maximum supported resolution is Full HD.
Like all other operators, Telekarta offers to watch the main channels for free. There are 12 of these in total. The operator’s advantage lies in its flexible tariff line. If 60 channels are enough for you, then the subscription fee will be only 50 rubles per month, which is very, very little. It should be noted that the unlimited package, which includes over 200 TV channels, is quite inexpensive. And yet, Telecard has certain disadvantages. Many users note a lack of sports channels. The operator has few additional online services.
Advantages:
- “Telecard Bonus” program, which encourages regular subscribers;
- A very large number of TV channels;
- Relatively cheap unlimited tariff;
- There are erotic channels;
- The kit includes a good receiver;
- A convenient site that talks about all the difficulties.
Flaws:
- Few sports channels;
- A 60-centimeter “dish” will not be enough in some regions;
- The set is not sold in all stores.
Cable or satellite?
Let's understand the difference between cable and satellite options for receiving and processing the incoming television signal.
Cable TV is more popular in the USA, Canada and European countries, but less so in Russia and the CIS. But even in our region this option is becoming more popular. This can be explained primarily by the popularization of wireless Internet connections and the development of fiber optic technologies.
Among the advantages of cable television it is worth highlighting:
- Uninterrupted signal.
- High quality connection.
- No interference in the broadcast (provided there is a high-quality outgoing signal on the sender’s side).
- Possibility of organizing mass connectivity in large cities and urban areas with dense population.
- A large number of TV channels.
- Connecting television and Internet using a single cable.
The only significant drawback of this option is the impossibility of creating a connection in small towns and villages. Or rather, there is such an opportunity, but for large operators, providing a cable connection to such places with a small number of clients is not economically profitable, because with the high cost of technical work and maintenance from a logistics point of view, the return in terms of benefits will be low. For clients, this means either the impossibility of connecting at all, or too expensive payment terms.
Satellite TV, as the name suggests, uses satellite communications for both receiving and transmitting signals. At one end are artificial satellites that orbit the Earth, and at the other end they receive the signal for the end user.
Almost all the advantages of cable TV are also available in the satellite version, but the main distinguishing feature here is the signal coverage of the entire territory of the planet, regardless of the urbanization of the territory and its distance from large cities, communication towers or the place where the office of the operator company is physically located. And in addition to other advantages, satellites have the ability to receive a signal in HD format, provided that the accompanying equipment (receivers, signal amplifiers, TVs with HD function) is available and properly configured.
Which satellite TV set to buy
If you are thinking of connecting to satellite television, be sure to go through the official websites of all four operators. First of all, you need to pay attention to the cost of viewing certain packages, and only then you should think about the money that is asked for a set of equipment.
Below we once again briefly draw attention to the features of each TV:
1. For example, MTS’s website is very unattractive and it is very difficult to understand how much it will cost you to watch the TV channels you are interested in.
2. Everything is fine with this at Telekarta. But there is a connection problem here - in many regions. To purchase equipment, you will have to go to a separate office, which may be located somewhere on the outskirts. However, no one forbids using an online store, so you can buy a satellite TV set even in a remote corner of our homeland.
3. Tricolor TV is the most popular among Russians. There is also a wide selection of kits that can be designed for one or two TVs, or even supplied without a receiver.
4. You should also not forget about NTV-Plus, which has recently reduced prices. But watching this satellite TV will be cheap only in the first two years, then the cost of the economical package will increase. But this is, without any doubt, the best choice for a fan of football, tennis, hockey, basketball and many other sports.
What's included
In order not to make a mistake when choosing, it is important for a person to know what satellite TV consists of and how the elements work. Only in this way will he find an acceptable option in the shortest possible time. The main elements of almost any kit are an antenna to which the signal is transmitted, a converter used to process it, as well as a receiver, thanks to which a person receives control and a coaxial cable. Without this starter kit, the user will not be able to access satellite TV.
The standard set of this set is intended for people who:
- Need a large assortment of gears;
- They don't want complicated use;
- Tired of constant signs saying “the signal is scrambled or weak.”
Satellite television can become an excellent guide to the world of unforgettable adventures, Disney fairy tales, dynamic action films and educational programs. But it is also important not to get lost in the offered assortment and choose an option that will last for over a dozen years and will be relevant for a long period.
Satellite dish for a summer residence without a monthly fee. Tricolor satellite dish
A satellite dish, or simply a “dish,” on the one hand, is no longer a curiosity and is actually accessible to many homeowners. On the other hand, there are many consumers who classify it as luxury. And there is no question of buying a satellite dish for the dacha. But in vain!
A cottage or house in a village, as a rule, is located in an area where television and other broadcasting is difficult. As a result, due to poor signal quality, watching your favorite movie may not take place. In addition, constant interruptions in the signal can negatively affect the operation of the device itself. Therefore, the optimal solution would be to purchase a satellite dish.
A large number of satellite programs are broadcast in the clear, these are the so-called channels without subscription fees. To view them, you only need to purchase receiving equipment. But these programs, as a rule, are dispersed across different satellites, and in order to collect a decent list of programs, you will need to install a rotating antenna capable of covering several satellite positions.
Main functions of devices
The quality of the signals depends on the correctness of the assembled kit. Therefore, one cannot make mistakes, since the risk that instead of a beautiful and clear picture, a person will receive a blurred image is very high. This will cause additional costs and take extra time.
Satellite dish
This is the main part, without which the owner will not be able to spend the evening watching his favorite movie or show. The clarity of the TV picture that is obtained at the output depends on the antenna. Therefore, it is necessary not to save, but to select a specific model for the selected situation.
So, a satellite where the diameter of the dish is not large is more suitable for areas with limited space. But it is important to remember that the power of the received signals is unlikely to reach the ideal, so this option is used for installation in the country. If you choose an antenna for everyday home viewing, the diameter of the device varies from 60 to 120 cm.
It is a mistake to think that the quality of the resulting image depends on the material used. Thus, aluminum will not allow rust to form on the surface, and the total weight will be several times less when compared with steel counterparts. But even devices made of non-ferrous metal cannot compare with antennas made of epoxy fiberglass. So this material is highly durable and works in all weather conditions.
In addition, a certain percentage of devices have an additional module, the purpose of which is to warm up the equipment. This is true for snowy areas where precipitation falls almost daily. Also, when purchasing such a plate, you need to check with your consultant about the availability of heating adjustment. This is the only way the owner will save the device from constantly increasing the temperature in places where it is inappropriate. As a rule, such models are equipped with a thermostat that regulates proper operation.
In some sets from manufacturers, a person can buy a plate with a double converter. So, unlike one converter, where viewing is possible only on a specific set-top box, a person will have the opportunity to record the channel of interest while simultaneously watching a TV show. But if a person does not have a receiver with a disk, then he can simply connect two standard ones.
You cannot think that converters that are sold in ready-made kits do their job poorly. Their only drawback is poor channel transmission in bad weather, and this is a common problem among budget options. In expensive ones, a high-level converter is installed, which will not experience discomfort in heavy rain or snowstorms.
Satellite receiver
The TV is not capable of processing signals received from the antenna; for this reason, manufacturers include a special device in the kit that will help the device work correctly. The main task of the receiver is to quickly and reliably recognize the signal received by the satellite and further convert it into something understandable for the TV. You can do without it if there is a satellite tuner inside the TV.
Modern stores sell hundreds of models of devices that provide strong communication with satellites. Starting with budget models, which come in most ready-made kits and will not allow the owner to enjoy all the diversity, since they only work with 6 satellites (maximum). Finishing with the top models, which provide the ability to record programs, are equipped with a disk drive or built-in 500 GB hard drive and produce a Full HD picture, and some models support full 4k, but this requires an appropriate TV. In addition, thanks to the rapid development of digital technologies, satellites have acquired special functions that greatly simplify their use and increase efficiency.
So a good tuner is equipped with:
- Surround sound, which creates the effect of presence;
- Wi-Fi support, which allows you to view YouTube, etc.;
- High-speed scanning function. Thanks to it, searching for channels will take less than a minute;
- Time shift;
- Some manufacturers equip the device with its own movie library;
- EPG present.
Coaxial cable
Options that come in ready-made kits are most often cheap and have a number of qualitative differences. But it does not have a big impact on the quality of the transmitted signal if the dish and receiver do not exceed 5 meters. However, when running a cable over a long distance, the risk of signal loss is maximum, so reception is not of high quality and is lost during transmission.
The most common cable variation is white sheath. However, 80% of such models have reduced resistance to solar exposure. Therefore, over time, their protective layer is destroyed, causing the risk of moisture penetration to increase, and this leads to signal loss. Therefore, some users buy a cable separately and often with resistance to ultraviolet radiation and sudden temperature changes. This will allow you to enjoy TV programs without consequences.
Satellite television antennas for summer cottages
This is a system of equipment for receiving a signal from a satellite. In order for the operation of this system to be justified, before purchasing you need to know what is included in the kit and what models of inexpensive satellite antennas for your dacha can be purchased.
Each antenna differs in diameter - from 50 to 300 cm, and thus the signal quality differs - the larger the diameter, the better the signal, even in conditions of strong winds, snowfalls and other weather conditions. But here you should know when to stop; to watch television in Russian, devices with a diameter of up to 90 cm are suitable. Large dishes are used to connect foreign TV.
At the same time, this does not mean that by choosing the largest “dish” you are guaranteed to get the best signal quality. And all because, in addition to the diameter of the antenna, the quality of the signal is affected by the location where the dacha is located (hill, plain, forest, etc.), the presence of neighbors in whose houses these devices are already installed, the telecom operator, etc. Therefore, before you buy a satellite dish for a TV in your country house, you should invite a specialist from a company who will subsequently install equipment to take measurements and select the optimal dish size.
Receiver with remote control or conditional access module.
The receiver is an integral part of the equipment that is installed near the TV and is designed to convert the signal received from the “dish” into the familiar video broadcast with voice. Depending on the progressiveness of the model, some devices work with only one coding system, others with several. In addition, advanced models contain a recording disk, making the option of delayed recording of content available.
An access module is a device used to decode a signal and is used in televisions with a built-in tuner. The technical characteristics of such a TV indicate support for the DVB-S, DVB-S2 format. As a rule, all modern TV models support this function.
Cable connecting the converter and receiver.
Everything is simple here! This is nothing more than a regular cable (coaxial wire).
- NTV Plus satellite kits from 5 0 00 ₽ (antenna, access module/receiver, card, converter, 10 m cable, 2f connector)
- Equipment installation from 2,500 ₽ (service only)
- Pros : picture and sound quality. HD, 4K and sports broadcasts. Steady signal. Free support.
Cons : lack of free programs, few movie channels, high subscription fees.
- Tricolor TV satellite kits from 5 0 00 ₽ (dish, access module/receiver, card, converter, 10m cable, 2f connector)
- Equipment installation from 2,500 ₽ (service only)
- Pros: HD and 4K channels. Low subscription fee. Steady signal.
Cons : paid technical support, few sports channels, problems with equipment occur more often.
- Satellite kits Telecard from 8,440 ₽ (dish, access module/receiver, card, converter, 10m cable, 2f connector)
- Equipment installation from 2,500 ₽ (service only)
- Pros : free technical support, low connection costs. Small subscription fee.
Cons : few sports and HD programs, unstable reception, no 4K programs, few movie channels.
Basic package of satellite TV
Regardless of the manufacturer, the standard set of any satellite TV looks like this:
- An antenna that resembles a dish in shape;
- Fastening elements (brackets);
- Received signal converter;
- Special tuner;
- Cable.
This is a starter kit that is required for satellite TV to work correctly. Also, it is important to remember that each element listed is directly related to the quality of the transmitted picture and sound.
There are a number of free channels that are included in one satellite and not in another, it is worth knowing about this. That is, in some models, a paid channel can be broadcast free of charge. This feature must be taken into account when purchasing a satellite yourself. But this is not all, also, when choosing a model, it is important to answer the following questions, this is the only way to narrow the search circles to 1-3 options:
- The number of TVs in the house on which the broadcast is planned.
- How many people live in the family?
- What preferences are typical for each user?
Most often in online stores and in standard places you can find the following configurations:
- Hit kit. This option is in demand among the majority of the population. It contains a small plate, three converters, a switch and an attachment. This minimum is enough for almost every user to enjoy good broadcasts.
- Two antennas, 4 converters and one switch and decoder unit each. This combination is optimal for receiving signals from 4 satellites.
- With the same number of medium-sized antennas, but with six converters and an eight-port switch, it is used to cover 6 satellites.
- And to cover the most part, the kit should include a motorized dish, receiver and converter.
The full cost of a specific satellite television set is often difficult to determine in advance if a person does not buy a ready-made set right away, which is provided by leading manufacturers such as MTS, NTV and Tricolor. In addition, the price will be different if the user wants to assemble his own package, where he will independently select each element. The cost is also affected by the condition of the parts; you can save money by purchasing used parts. We must not forget that installing the kit is a costly process, since not everyone can install an antenna with their own hands, which means you need to pay a specialist.
What is a tricolor satellite dish for a dacha?
Tricolor TV is one of the leading telecom operators in the Russian Federation, with more than 40 million subscribers throughout the country. The company began its activities in 2005 and offers high-quality HD television communications.
The operator's trick is to provide accessible communication. Therefore, it is tricolor that is chosen by those subscribers who are interested in satellite antennas for their summer cottages with a minimum monthly fee and an acceptable cost of equipment. You can find all this here, at Spectrum TV.
Our company offers tricolor package services for consumers with different needs.
Satellite television
The issue of TV in the country is often solved by purchasing a kit for receiving a signal from a satellite. Let's take a closer look at what it includes:
- A satellite antenna (“dish”) with a converter placed in front of it. The antenna diameter varies from 50 to 300 cm. The size matters in this case: the larger it is, the more stable the signal will be (especially in bad weather) and the more channels you can watch. But there is no need to choose the largest available diameter “by default”: the quality of signal reception depends on a number of factors - the location of your “hacienda”, the selected operator, and so on. It is possible that the best option for you will be a standard 60 cm antenna. You can determine which “dish” you need using the maps that are posted on the providers’ websites, as well as after taking measurements from a specialist (this is done before installing the equipment).
- Receiver with remote control. It is placed next to the TV, it receives the signal from the antenna and converts it into a familiar video signal with sound for delivery to the TV. The cost of receivers depends not only on the pricing policy of the provider, but also on the complexity of the device: some recognize one encoding, others several different ones; “advanced” models hide a hard drive for recording or deferred viewing of content.
- Cable connecting the converter and receiver. As a rule, this is the usual “antenna” coaxial wire.
For reference:
There is equipment that supports broadcasting high definition television (HD and Full HD). However, you will also need an HDMI cable. Also, the TV itself must support Full HD video. By the way, almost all LCD TVs with a screen larger than 26 inches are like this.
A set of equipment is the most noticeable expense when connecting to satellite television. Below we will look at the cost of configurations* from various leading providers in this market.
* The information is current as of June 2021; the most accurate information about tariffs and connection costs can be found on the operator’s websites.
Industry pioneer. Today it serves more than 3 million people in 55 cities in Russia and Ukraine, while offering subscribers more than 240 channels.
The channels to which NTV+ provides access are divided into packages. The main connection package is “Basic (West)”: 173 channels for 149 rubles per month. You can connect additional packages to it - for children, educational, entertainment, music, sports, and so on.
What else is important to know
If you have zero experience using satellite systems, then it is not recommended to buy expensive and complex kits. Because it will be very difficult to understand the principle of action and a person will have to constantly turn to installers for help, and this causes additional costs and wastes time.
In addition, before purchasing the device, the area where it will be placed is specified. Because some satellites are designed for a specific location and will not be able to operate in another region. Therefore, the owner must know for sure that the selected model is suitable for the location of the house or apartment, only in this way the signal quality will remain at the same level.
If a person needs media content provided by a satellite platform, then a suitable option is to conclude an agreement with the operator and purchase the assembled set. The most important thing is not to try to save money; it would also be a good idea to find out the opinions of users; thanks to the Internet, this has become even easier, or the simplest thing is to ask your neighbors. Most often, it is not for nothing that the best manufacturers remain on the market for so many years and are in demand; their quality and performance are at the same level. Also, when ordering an antenna with an interactive LNB, the owner will be able to watch movies on the Internet, but the tariff will be higher and this is important to remember.
If a person wants to receive signals from all satellites, then the standard set is not enough. It is also not in demand among a large family, where each person wants to watch the program that he needs, and not wait for the right time. This problem can be solved by additional equipment or the presence of 2-3 receivers with a serial connection, which will provide high-quality transmission for each family member.
Tricolor TV
The largest operator of Russian satellite television. Serves about 40 million people in the European part of Russia, as well as in the Siberian, Ural and part of the Far Eastern districts.
The company relies on the introduction of modern technologies, in particular, high-definition television (HD).
You can purchase equipment for viewing channels from the operator - both complete kits that include everything for installation, including self-installation (from 8,990 rubles), as well as individual components (dishes, receivers, converters, and so on).
The operator’s basic package called “Unified” costs 1,200 rubles per year (100 rubles per month), “Unified Multi” (provides the ability to watch TV programs on two TVs simultaneously) costs 2,000 rubles per year. There are also children's and sports packages.
Description, tariffs, pros and cons
Operators are trying to attract as many subscribers as possible through favorable prices, a large list of channels, additional options and privileges. Let's consider the offers of each company separately.
Tricolor
The most popular satellite operator in the Russian Federation. He was able to achieve this thanks to the optimal price-quality ratio.
NJSC National Satellite Company divides services into 3 categories - television, Internet and smart home. In the last category you can buy smart control units, smart sockets, light bulbs and sensors.
The main TV service from Tricolor is the “Unified” package. It is divided into 3 options:
- Unified – 217 channels, of which 34 HD channels and 2 Ultra HD channels. The set also includes 47 radio channels. The service will cost 1,500 rubles per year of use.
- Unified Multi Light . The same “Single”, at the same price, only for two TVs at once.
- Unified Multi – 219 channels, of which 34 HD channels and 2 Ultra HD channels. The set also includes 48 radio stations. The service will cost 2,000 rubles per year of use. As a bonus, it comes with the “Multiroom” option, thanks to which channels from other packages will be opened for you, namely “Children’s”, “Match Premier”, “Match! Football”, “Night” and “Ultra HD”. Single Multi is available on 2 TVs at once.
- Extra - another main package of the operator is called. For 2,000 rubles a year you get 218 channels, 36 of them in HD format and 47 radio stations. It is possible to pay for six months at an increased rate - 1200 rubles.
Tricolor offers subscribers several smaller sets:
- Children's - for 1,200 rubles per year you get 22 children's channels, including 4 HD.
- Night - for 1800 rubles per year you will receive 7 channels of the 18+ category, including 3 HD.
- Ultra HD – for 1,500 rubles per year you will get 6 channels in Ultra HD format.
For your savings, Tricolor offers to combine the Unified and Ultra HD sets. The annual subscription fee will decrease from 3,000 rubles to 2,500 rubles. This is on the operator's website.
For subscribers whose equipment does not support broadcasting in MPEG-4 format, tricolor offers a profitable exchange of the set-top box for a new one. The new equipment will have the functions of rewinding, pausing and saving archives for a week. As a result of the exchange, you will be given new equipment in installments for 25 months. Monthly payment – 199 rubles.
There are other options available that add a 500GB hard drive or a dual-tuner receiver. The promotion is available until the end of 2021.
Competitive advantages of Tricolor services:
- Possibility to buy a single set of channels and radio stations.
- The ability to watch TV and movies through a mobile application on a smartphone or tablet. The application is available both for Android in the Google Play Store and for iPhone in the App Store.
- A large number of HD and Ultra HD channels.
- Thematic packages for all occasions.
- Ability to watch TV on 2 TVs simultaneously.
- Interest-free installment plan for new equipment upon delivery of old equipment.
The Tricolor company also has disadvantages:
- Frequent software updates via the Internet, without which problems with signal quality appear;
- no free or discounted offers;
- Some world-famous channels, such as Discovery, are missing from the sets.
To clarify the nuances and get answers to questions, use the toll-free phone number or paid +7 812 332-34-98.
HTB-Plus
NTV-plus was once considered a luxury compared to Tricolor. Today, operator tariffs have leveled out, but prejudice towards NTV-plus has not disappeared.
The list of NTV-plus service packages starts with Basic. For 1,500 rubles a year you get 189 television channels, including:
- all-Russian, for example, STS, Channel 1;
- movies and TV series: FOX, Film Comedy, Film Series;
- entertainment: KVN TV, MTV;
- sports: Eurosport, Match! A game;
- informational: Euronews, CNN, RBC;
- musical: RU-TV, TNT Music;
- educational: Discovery, National Geographic;
- regional: Astrakhan 24, Arkhyz 24, Kuban 24 Orbit;
- radio: Humor FM, Radio Vanya.
For other sets, TV and radio channels are divided into the same categories.
With you can watch 188 channels on mobile or desktop devices without a satellite dish via the Internet.
NTV-plus also offers an Economical set - 78 television and radio channels for 750 rubles per year.
For each of the described channel packages, you can purchase additional ones. Kits available for connection:
- Kino Plus - for movie buffs you can add 21 channels for 279 rubles per month;
- Sports plus – 10 additional channels are available for sports fans for 399 rubles per month;
- Supersport - if the previous set is not enough, purchase 12 channels for 679 rubles per month;
- Educational - for those who love documentaries and films about wildlife NTV-plus has prepared 16 channels for 249 rubles per month;
- Children’s – 15 channels for 129 rubles per month;
- Entertainment – 11 channels for 139 rubles per month;
- Musical – 12 channels for 149 rubles per month;
- Night – 4 erotic channels for 169 rubles per month;
- Amedia Premium HD – 3 channels showing the latest world cinema and TV series, for 199 rubles per month;
- Egoist - 2 men's channels about contemporary art, including short films in the nude genre, stories about beauty and master classes;
- Mood Cinema – 4 family channels for 299 rubles per month;
- ViP – 4 channels with premieres of Russian and Hollywood film companies for 399 rubles per month;
- HD Plus - 39 channels in HD format for 899 rubles per month.
The NTV-plus company offers installments for its equipment subject to the purchase of a subscription to channels 233-271 with the “All Inclusive 549” and “All Inclusive 999” sets. Monthly for these sets you will have to pay 549 and 999 rubles, respectively, not counting payments for equipment.
The undoubted advantages of the NTV-plus operator include:
- variety of television sets;
- inexpensive basic tariffs;
- Availability of online solutions for multiple devices;
- clear division of channels into subtypes;
- interest-free installment plan for new equipment when ordering expensive sets.
Among the disadvantages of NTV-plus:
- high cost of additional services, it is higher than most competitors;
- no single payment day - some services are paid monthly, others annually.
To clarify details and get answers to questions, use our toll-free phone number.
MTS-TB
During the existence of the company, the management of PJSC Mobile TeleSystems has created its own bank, a network of equipment stores, as well as a set of offers for satellite and online TV.
MTS PJSC offers satellite TV together with the Internet and separately. The kits include equipment with or without antenna.
A total of 2 sets of services are available. They are presented in the table.
Set name | Number of channels | Payment, rubles/month | Connection cost, rubles | Operator promotions | ||
Without antenna | With 0.6 m antenna | With 0.9 m antenna | ||||
Base | 156+34 HD+1 UHD | 175 | 3400-5840 | 3990-7040 | 4490-7540 | – |
Advanced | 164+35 HD+2 UHD | 250 | MTS returns 3,900 rubles with bonus points, which can be used to pay up to 50% of the subscription fee |
The operator divides channels into categories:
- All-Russian;
- Cognitive;
- Hobbies and leisure;
- Cinema and TV series;
- Sports;
- Regional;
- Musical;
- News;
- Children's;
- Telemarketing and information channels;
- For adults;
- ULTRA HD;
- Radio.
Advantages of satellite television MTS-TV:
- you can buy Internet with television at a single price;
- equipment is included in the installation price;
- cashback bonuses when ordering.
Among the disadvantages of the operator’s offers:
- the price of basic sets is higher than that of NTV-Plus or Tricolor;
- no offers for installation without operator equipment;
- there are no additional channels for additional purchases.
For more information, call the operator's sales department at 88002500050 or technical support specialists at 88002500890. Calls are free.
Telecard
The Telekarta brand replaced the group’s brand not so long ago. He inherited his predecessor's customer base. The operator tried to handle the transition of old subscribers to the new system as delicately as possible.
The operator also divided the channels into categories:
- movie;
- children's;
- sports;
- musical;
- all-Russian;
- knowledge and entertainment;
- regional;
- High Definition.
Telecard has 4 basic sets of channels:
- Premier , available for connection only on HD equipment. The operator offers 250+ channels for 399 rubles per month. The operator included 4 additional thematic packages in the set.
- Pioneer , available for connection to SH or HD equipment. The operator offers 85+ channels for 75 rubles per month or 800 rubles per year.
- Leader , available for connection to SH or HD equipment. The operator offers 210+ channels for 249 rubles per month or 1990 rubles per year.
- Master , available for connection to SH or HD equipment. The operator offers 115+ channels for 149 rubles per month or 1,400 rubles per year.
Additional channel packages are divided into the same categories as the main ones, except for the additional categories 18+ and Educational. The cost of additional packages varies from 49 to 399 rubles per month.
The Pioneer set includes 20 public channels for free.
Advantages of the Telekarta operator:
- accessibility for different types of equipment;
- Possibility of both monthly and annual payment according to your choice;
- cheap basic sets;
- online cinema.
The disadvantage of the Telekart operator is that there are no Ultra HD offers.
For inquiries, use the toll-free number 8 (800)-100-104-7 or Moscow number 8 (495)-781-41-03.
Hotbird
The French satellite company Eutelsat operates longer than the Russian competitors considered. Its satellites distribute free digital television signals throughout the world in different languages.
There are 4 satellites available for the Russian Federation:
- EUTELSAT 36B . It covers the CIS countries, Asia and Africa, distributing about 700 channels. This includes paid content from other satellite companies, such as NTV-Plus and Tricolor.
- EUTELSAT 36C – does not exist separately, but leases capacity from the satellite of the State Enterprise “Space Communications”.
- Express AT1 is also located at the Space Communications State Enterprise and expands the coverage of the first satellite on the list.
- Express AT2 – similar to Express AT1.
Also, the 0.9m antenna can receive signals from Eutelsat HotBird 13B/13C/13E satellites.
As stated above, there are many third parties broadcasting on Eutelsat satellites and any paid packages that you want to receive in your home must be paid directly from them, in accordance with their terms and conditions. Eutelsat acts only as an intermediary transmitter and does not directly interact with end subscribers in Russia.
Advantages of using Hotbird/Euthelsat satellites:
- a huge selection of free digital channels;
- high-quality coverage over the Russian Federation and CIS countries.
Disadvantages of using Hotbird/Euthelsat satellites:
- Among the variety of free channels it is difficult to find Russian-language ones;
- To pay for paid channels you will have to look for a direct provider.
Telecard
The company bills itself as the most affordable satellite TV provider in the country, although direct price comparisons are somewhat dubious. One way or another, the satellite's broadcast zone covers the whole of Russia, from Sakhalin to Kaliningrad. Telekarta also offers connection and exchange for an HD set in installments.
A set of satellite equipment is available at a price of 7,000 rubles. If desired, you can purchase individual components.
Regarding the subscription fee, it should be noted that the company offers a “Bonus” program for clients, thanks to which you can significantly reduce monthly payments for the selected package. There are three ways to become a participant in the program:
- Be an active subscriber for 6 months (and receive a discount from the seventh).
- Top up your balance by a certain amount (up to 1200 rubles for the “Standard” package and up to 3600 for the “Unlimited” package).
- Be a new client who renewed his registration immediately after the initial subscription.
Basic packages: “Standard” (100+ channels, 149 rubles per month or 100 rubles under the “Bonus” program) and “Unlimited” (170+ channels, 399 rubles per month or 300 rubles under the “Bonus” program). There are also additional packages: children's package, movie package, football package and others. It is also possible to provide services online (favorite channels on any device).
Hotbird
The difference between this operator, popular in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East, from its competitors is that it relies on foreign channels. This is not surprising, since the operator is foreign. By connecting, the subscriber gets the opportunity to watch programs and films in English, French, German, Ukrainian, Swedish, Estonian, Italian, and many other languages. About 10 channels in Russian are available.
In Russia, connectivity is provided primarily by intermediaries, so prices vary.
Typically, these are either two antennas or one that can receive two signals. This “double” connection is more profitable than purchasing two sets, and it’s also more convenient.
Is there an alternative?
What to do if satellite TV is not suitable for some reason, but you still want to watch your favorite channels? Leading cellular operators offer the ability to watch TV over a cellular network. The subscriber gains access to them through a special application for phones or tablets.
It is very important to understand how well the signal of a particular operator is received on your “hacienda” (we talked about this in more detail in the article about connecting the Internet outside the city). However, even in the case of reliable coverage, interruptions in playback can be very frequent, because broadcasting streaming content is the most difficult discipline for a cellular network. And one more thing: make sure that your device is compatible with the operator’s software. This is a very important nuance; operator websites usually list the criteria that gadgets must meet.
As for the prices for such services, Beeline , for example, offers to watch 18 channels for free (as part of a pre-paid Internet tariff), 50 channels will cost 11 rubles per day.
With MTS you can connect to the service with a daily tariff (15 rubles per day) or immediately for a month (300 rubles).
Megafon also offers you to view your favorite channels through a special application. The subscription fee for the service is 5 rubles per day. There are a range of packages and options (their cost ranges from 0 to 17 rubles per day), you can set up a convenient configuration. Along with TV channels, you can also watch movies, and with the current promotion at the time of writing, you can watch the new season of the Game of Thrones series for free.
Advantages of Internet TV
In modern realities, everyone can find a product or service to their liking. This rule also applies to IPTV. Thus, for 1 dollar you will be given access to Russian, Kazakh, Ukrainian or French channels.
Internet channels, unlike broadcast ones, provide more room for maneuver. This is not only picture clarity, HD resolution, but also the option of viewing programs from the archive (not only live broadcasts). The digital format is free of standard analogue problems: no signal dropouts, top-class sound, color depth, like in expensive computer design studios. Self-updating playlists, another highlight of IPTV, eliminate the chance of being disappointed in viewing due to the fact that some links are inactive.
And the symbolic (sometimes literally) subscription payment justifies the costs incurred.
What's the end result: satellite or mobile?
In general, we can say that if you need television outside the city on an ongoing basis, then your choice is satellite TV . Pay attention to the quality of coverage in the area where your country house is located, and also compare the prices of the operators who work there.
Advantages
- Stable signal reception (interruptions can only occur in stormy weather)
- Possibility to watch a large number of channels, including in foreign languages
- Ability to connect multiple TVs to one antenna
Flaws
- Relatively high prices for a set of equipment
- Difficult to install yourself
- Lack of mobility
If you want to watch selective programs from time to time, then mobile TV will fully satisfy your needs. Just make sure the quality of the signal and that your mobile devices support the operator's applications.
Advantages
- Always with you
- Affordability
- Possibility of daily payment
Flaws
- Instability of operation when signal reception is not sufficiently reliable
- Not all devices support viewing applications
- Without additional tricks, viewing is possible on devices with a relatively small screen
By choosing the criteria that are most important to you, you can easily decide what kind of TV connection you need in your dacha.
The summer season is just around the corner, choose a digital DVB-T2 antenna for your dacha
Most people associate summer with the dacha. And even here, far from most of the benefits of civilization, you want to watch your favorite TV series or the game of your favorite sports team, but you won’t be able to take your indoor antenna with you and install it in nature. As a rule, this is primarily a great distance from a television tower or an obstacle in the way, and this will not allow you to get a high-quality picture on the screen. There are two options for a summer residence - satellite or terrestrial digital television. The Internet is not always available at the dacha and not many people will be able to use IPTV, and even those who have it cannot boast of signal quality, which in this case can become a problem. Each has its own pros and cons, which we will discuss further.
Satellite television for those who cannot live without a full package of television programs.
Undoubtedly, satellite television will allow you to watch a large number of television channels, but it will cost you much more than terrestrial television. In addition to installing the dish and converter, you will need a receiver from one of the operators or, which will be even more expensive, a set-top box with support for CI+ modules with the corresponding module and card. But the summer will end, and the subscription will continue. Depending on the satellite TV operator and program package, you will have to pay an average of 1,200 to 2,000 rubles per year. Not everyone has the opportunity to install a dish in their apartment to the south, to a satellite, and thus the money paid will simply be lost. In our opinion, among satellite operators, NTV Plus will be the best option, this is due to the fact that the subscription fee can be paid monthly, and not immediately for the year, as is customary with Tricolor TV.
Terrestrial digital television for the dacha, for those who do not want to pay a subscription fee.
Of course, lower investments and no subscription fees are significant advantages. If all-Russian TV channels are enough for you, then this is your option. After all, at the dacha you usually don’t have time to watch, you pay more attention to the garden. How to choose the right digital antenna for your dacha. First of all, you need to find your locality on the map of the DVB T2 signal coverage area and calculate the distance to the nearest tower. If the distance to the nearest repeater is no more than 50 km, then it is recommended to pay attention to an outdoor passive antenna. The most popular passive antennas are Lumax hd 204z and Goldmaster 500. The quality of the received signal does not always depend on the distance; sometimes the terrain and proximity to higher obstacles can serve as an obstacle. In this case, you can buy an alcad al 200 or Terra 123 indoor amplifier, they will significantly increase signal. If the distance to the tower is more than 50 km. but no more than 100 km, we recommend paying attention to the most powerful antenna - Locus 025.62. For long distances, antenna gain is important. There is also a drawback of active street antennas - frequent burnout of the amplifier located on the street. But if there are no options, then you can buy several amplification boards in reserve, their price is significantly lower than the cost of the antenna. To receive DVB T2 digital TV, one antenna is enough if you have a modern TV in the house, but usually in the country these are older models. And for older TVs you will need a DVB T2 set-top box, how to choose it is described in another article.
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Operator Comparison
To understand which provider is the best today, we suggest taking a look at the comparison table. It includes the cost of services, a list of available channels in the main package, as well as an assessment of the quality of coverage.
Provider | Number of channels in the main package | Subscription fee per year | Assessment of coating quality |
Tricolor | 231 | 1500 RUR/year | 8 |
NTV-Plus | 184 | 1500 RUR/year | 9 |
MTS-TV | 196 | 2100 RUR/year | 8 |
Telecard | 145 | 1500 RUR/year | 7 |
Hotbird | Unknown | For free | 7 |
Continent TV | 133 | RUR 2,388/year | 6 |
Based on the information presented in the comparison table, it immediately becomes clear why Tricolor is the most popular provider. The company offers the largest number of channels at a competitive price. So this particular satellite TV operator is the best in 2021.
Of course, the absence of a subscription fee for HotBird and the ability to use equipment from another company will attract quite a lot of customers. But the fact that within HotBird only news channels are available to users is far from a plus for the provider. In addition, certain difficulties may arise with the setup.
NTV-Plus should be considered the only competitor of Tricolor that can impose a fight. The company has a long and successful history, and no one has any complaints about the quality of the coating. Another thing is the price, which, judging by the number of channels, is greatly inflated.
We should expect certain successes from MTS-TV in the coming years. The service is progressing and attracting more and more subscribers to its networks. In many respects, MTS’s offer is not inferior to its competitors, so that soon we can talk about a whole trio of top satellite television providers.