I discovered that AT&T's "Digital Cable" service was very misleading.

Bottom line: Only a handful of non pay channels are actually broadcast digitally (improved picture and sound over the standard analog signal), so don't expect a lot.

After I installed the digital equipment, I had an AT&T tech come back out because the picture actually got worse. He traced the problem to a very poor signal that I had been getting for years due to old cable. They will upgrade your equipment for free if you ask.

I demanded that they upgrade all the cabling from the street connection (most of the original cabling in our area is old, deteriorating and inadequate and should be replaced). I had to fight for this. Originally, they wanted me to wait three months for the upgrade.

I switched to the a satellite dish and love it! Better picture, sound, programming and service. Best of all, I don't have to deal with the arrogance of AT&T.