German cable operator Primacom is adding five private HD channels at no additional cost, However, viewers have to rent a new PVR equipped with VideoGuard to see the channels.
The cabler is adding RTL, Vox, ProSieben, Sat.1 and Kabel 1 to its HD line-up, “in combination with our special Christmas offer”, said managing director Michael Dorn. An entry level package including broadband access and basic TV is available for €9.99 for the first 12 months.
The five private HD channels will be encrypted using NDS VideoGuard, for which a dedicated cable tuner is available, a stand alone receiver and a PVR, both manufactured by Kaon. The 250 GB PVR costs €12 a month, the tuner €6. Primacom also offers the possibility to buy the equipment.
People who have bought a cable tuner in retail will not be able to see the five HD channels, as VideoGuard does not support CI solutions for the time being.