A satellite TV system consists of a dish that captures the TV signal broadcast from a satellite, and a receiver that amplifies the signal and sends it to a television.

Less than 10 years ago, satellite TV systems consisted of a huge satellite dish, about the size of a flying saucer, and an array of black boxes that required an electronic technician to set up. Not only that, they were expensive, costing anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000.

We've come a long way since then. Now, satellite dishes are the size of a large Frizbee, the receiver is the size of a notebook, and using the system is as easy as operating a microwave.

And the best news of all is that today's systems won't cost you a penny. Thanks to the ongoing competition between satellite TV dealers, they'll give you a complete satellite TV system for free when you subscribe to their satellite TV service.

Benefits of a Satellite TV System

Here are the benefits of having a satellite TV system:

1. You have the option of viewing up to 256 channels of programming.

2. Satellite TV is broadcast in an all-digital format for the clearest picture and sound available.

3. Satellite TV systems include DVR (digital video recording) so you can record your favorite shows.

4. You can get HD (high definition) receivers that allow you to watch your shows in HD format.

5. Satellite TV is the more reliable than cable or over-the-air TV, with less blackouts and fewer picture problems.

6. Customer service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

DISH Network Satellite TV System

Here's what you get when you order DISH Network satellite TV service:

1. A free satellite TV dish with mounting hardware.

2. Up to four free receivers plus universal remotes.

3. Free DVR (digital video recording) receivers.

4. Free HD satellite TV receivers (optional).

5. Free professional installation in up to four rooms of your home.

6. A one-year warranty on your satellite TV system.

DIRECTV Satellite TV System

Here's what you get when you order DIRECTV satellite TV service:

1. A free satellite TV dish with mounting hardware.

2. Up to four free receivers plus universal remotes.

3. Free professional installation in up to four rooms of your home.

4. DVR receivers -- free after a $99 rebate.

5. HDTV satellite TV receivers (optional), $199 per receiver.

6. A one-year warranty on your satellite TV system.

Satellite TV Service

In order to get a free satellite TV system you have to subscribe to a satellite TV service:

DISH Network offers four program packages. Prices start at $31.99 per month for their basic package which has 60 channels, and go up to $86.99 for their top-of-the-line package which has 230 channels.

DIRECTV offers three program packages. Prices start at $41.99 per month for their basic package which has 135 channels, including 31 music channels, and go up to $93.99 for their top-of-the-line package which has 185 channels.

Both services also have movie channels, sports packages, foreign language programming, adult programming, HDTV packages, and pay-per-view channels.

Bottom Line

When it comes to which satellite TV system is the best, it's six-of-one, a half-dozen-of the other. Both systems are state-of-the-art and have enough features to please even the most fanatical electronics buff.

But when it comes to additional features such as DVR and HD receivers, or different dishes to accommodate HD receivers and specialized TV channels, price differences can be significant.

Before you order satellite TV service, I recommend clicking on the links below to check out current satellite TV system options and prices.