[Utilizer]

What value does ROKU provide? From the descriptions I have read, you must subscribe to HULU, NETFLIX, and AMAZON PRIME to stream their offerings, with no mention given to local programming or even any popular cable channels, such as FoxNews or even the SyFy channel being provided, let alone Animal Planet, Discovery, the History Channel, Spike, or USA.

[freedomlover]

I dunno about you, but I think to work at Radio Shack you mast to have to prequalify by being a nutcase. There are three in our area and I dread it every time I have to go in for an electronic part. One has to interject politics into every sentence, the other hasnt washed in weeks, etc.

I make a point to bring cash, and still have to turn down a jillion questions as whether I want to buy/sign up/whatever

They dont ask for telnos any more (around here), but for years whenever they would ask for mine I would give them the local police telno.

But if you need some electronic parts on a Sunday afternoon, they will have them,

[GeronL]

If you need your leftwing TV they have your Democracy Now!
lol

[Vigilanteman]

The basic ROKU package gives access to local channels, channels on the net and basically what you get for a low end Dish, DirecTv or cable package which can vary from area to area. I plan to go into a Best Buy and talk to one of their geeks or call when my current DirecTv contract gets closer to expiration.

It is true that you have to pay extra subscription fees for some of the really good stuff like NetFlix. But, as my sister points out, even adding these services still gets you in at a cost way lower than the average cable or satellite basic package.

There are alternatives to Roku as well offering different Internet hookup packages. Perhaps a Freeper far more knowledgeable than me could elaborate.