RCN now goes by the name Astound Broadband, powered by RCN. You’ll also see other brands, like Grande Communications and Wave Broadband, using the new Astound Broadband name. This might make things a little confusing, so we’ll try to keep it as clear as possible and update this review if any more changes roll down the line. But Astound Broadband (formerly RCN) isn’t for everyone. It’s only available in six different areas on the East Coast: Boston, Chicago, DC Metro, Lehigh Valley, New York, and Philadelphia. RCN also makes it simple with just one TV plan and one bundle option. If you live in one of these areas, let’s get into the details to see if this is the right cable TV provider for you and your family. Kind of confusing, we know. Either way, the monthly price for your Astound Broadband cable bill will most likely be lower than any other cable TV provider in your area. So, why not take advantage! Save a few dollars for those Nike shoes you have your eye on. None of the company’s plans require a contract. Its prices are guaranteed for 12-months, and you can cancel any time without penalty. While that ambiguous statement may sound ominous, we’ll help clear up some fee prices. The activation fee is self-explanatory (and also not too bad of a price), and if you need a TV outlet installed in your home, Astound kindly does the service for you for $35 each outlet (which isn’t too bad, as well). So if you need an HD converter in your living room, your bedroom, and your daughter’s bedroom, expect to add $43 to your monthly bill (yikes). We don’t like that price, but if you want to enjoy high definition … budget accordingly. The company gives out free installation coupons like they grow on trees. Just Google“ Astound Broadband (formerly RCN) installation coupon” and you’ll find a coupon code. Use that $50 to treat you to something nice. Astound Broadband’s TV/internet/phone plan combinations and prices vary widely by service area (check Astound Broadband, powered by RCN’s website to see what it offers in your area), but here are some of its most widely available bundles to give you an idea. You also have the option to keep your bill lower if you’re just fine with 60 channels, but also want the internet for streaming and unlimited nationwide calling. If you sign up for Astound Broadband’s Digital TV package, then you’ll have lots of popular channels that will give you plenty of new shows to obsess over. (And 77 high-definition channels to enjoy). You can get the full channel lineup on Astound Broadband, powered by RCN’s website, or get the sneak peak right here: Premiere Sports includes channels like NFL Network, NBA TV, MLB Network, and NHL Network. Premiere Entertainment will have your Starz Encore, MTV2, Nat Geo Wild, and VH1 Classic. Premiere News & Information is for the newsies who like their daily CNN International, Bloomberg Television, and Smithsonian Channel. Perfect for families, Premiere Family & Kids has channels such as Nick Jr., Cooking Channel, and Discover Family. And lastly, Premiere Total Pack includes all of these channels, with select channels from the Premiere Sports add-on. The company has teamed up with TiVo, one of the best DVR services on the market, to offer DVR rental options. And heads up, the pricing for the DVRs will differ based on which area you live.
DC Metro: $91.52/mo.* Boston: $94.07/mo.* Chicago: $94.90/mo.* Lehigh Valley: $84.59/mo.* New York: $96.31/mo.* Philadelphia: $83.80/mo.*
