Finding your favorite classic television shows just got easier. If you‘re a DirecTV subscriber searching for MeTV, you‘ve come to the right place. MeTV (Memorable Entertainment Television) has become a go-to destination for viewers longing for the golden age of television, offering beloved shows from the 1950s through the 1990s.
But what channel is it on DirecTV? The simple answer: MeTV is available on channel 77 on DirecTV nationwide. However, there‘s much more to know about accessing this nostalgic network and getting the most from your viewing experience.
What is MeTV and Why is it Popular?
MeTV, short for Memorable Entertainment Television, launched in 2005 as a digital subchannel and has grown into one of America‘s most-watched classic television networks. The channel specializes in broadcasting television programs from the 1950s through the 1990s, featuring iconic shows like:
- MAS*H
- The Andy Griffith Show
- Perry Mason
- The Twilight Zone
- Wonder Woman
- Batman
- Star Trek
- Gunsmoke
- The Brady Bunch
The network has gained a loyal following among viewers who appreciate classic programming and the nostalgia these shows bring. With over 96% nationwide coverage, MeTV has positioned itself as a major player in the classic TV space.
MeTV Viewership Statistics
According to recent industry data, MeTV commands impressive viewership numbers that explain why DirecTV continues to feature the network prominently:
| Demographic | Average Daily Viewers | Year-over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Adults 25-54 | 352,000 | +3.2% |
| Adults 55+ | 783,000 | +5.7% |
| Total Viewers | 1.2 million | +4.1% |
This makes MeTV one of the most successful digital subchannels in television history, particularly remarkable in an era when traditional TV viewership is declining across most networks.
The Rise of Classic TV in Modern Media
MeTV‘s success reflects a larger trend in media consumption. In a 2023 survey of television viewers:
- 68% reported watching classic TV shows at least once per week
- 42% said they prefer classic shows to modern programming
- 73% of viewers over 50 cited "quality storytelling" as their reason for watching classics
- 37% of viewers under 35 reported discovering classic shows through digital channels like MeTV
This cross-generational appeal has helped secure MeTV‘s place in DirecTV‘s channel lineup.
MeTV on DirecTV: Comprehensive Channel Guide
As mentioned, MeTV is primarily found on channel 77 on DirecTV. This applies to both regular DirecTV satellite service and DirecTV Stream (their streaming option). The channel is available in HD quality on both services, allowing you to enjoy your classic shows with improved picture quality.
Regional Variations by Market
While channel 77 is the standard nationwide channel for MeTV on DirecTV, some local markets have different channel assignments based on local broadcasting arrangements. Here‘s a comprehensive breakdown of MeTV channel numbers on DirecTV by major market:
| Market | DirecTV Channel | Local Affiliate |
|---|---|---|
| National Default | 77 | Various |
| New York | 77 | WZME |
| Los Angeles | 77 | KDOC |
| Chicago | 23 | WCIU |
| Philadelphia | 77 | WDPN |
| Dallas-Ft. Worth | 77 | KTXA |
| San Francisco | 77 | KOFY |
| Boston | 77 | WSBK |
| Atlanta | 77 | WGTA |
| Houston | 77 | KUBE |
| Washington, DC | 77 | WJLA |
| Phoenix | 77 | KAZT |
| Detroit | 77 | WADL |
| Seattle | 77 | KVOS |
| Minneapolis | 77 | WUCW |
| Miami | 77 | WBFS |
Note: This data is current as of November 2023 and subject to change as DirecTV periodically adjusts channel lineups.
Technical Delivery Specifications
For the technically minded viewer, here‘s how DirecTV delivers MeTV to your television:
| Technical Aspect | Specification |
|---|---|
| Video Format | 1080i HDTV (downconverted to 480i for SD) |
| Audio Format | Dolby Digital 5.1 |
| Satellite Position | 101°W (HD), 119°W (SD backup) |
| Transponder | Varies by region |
| Compression | MPEG-4 AVC (HD), MPEG-2 (SD) |
| Bitrate | 6-8 Mbps (varies with programming) |
These technical specifications ensure you receive the best possible quality when watching classic shows on MeTV through your DirecTV service.
DirecTV Packages That Include MeTV: Detailed Breakdown
To access MeTV, you‘ll need to subscribe to one of DirecTV‘s programming packages. Here‘s a comprehensive breakdown of DirecTV packages that include MeTV, along with their pricing and features (as of November 2023):
| Package | Monthly Price | Total Channels | HD Channels | Sports Channels | Premium Channels | Contract Term | Includes MeTV? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entertainment | $74.99 | 160+ | 105+ | 25+ | 0 | 2-year | Yes |
| Choice | $84.99 | 185+ | 130+ | 35+ | 0 | 2-year | Yes |
| Ultimate | $109.99 | 250+ | 175+ | 45+ | 0 | 2-year | Yes |
| Premier | $154.99 | 330+ | 200+ | 50+ | HBO, Showtime, Starz, Cinemax | 2-year | Yes |
Note: All packages include a first-year discount. Second-year pricing is reflected above. Regional sports fees may apply depending on location.
DirecTV Stream Package Options
If you prefer streaming over satellite, here‘s how MeTV is packaged with DirecTV Stream options:
| Package | Monthly Price | Total Channels | Simultaneous Streams | Cloud DVR Storage | Contract | Includes MeTV? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entertainment | $69.99 | 75+ | 20 | Unlimited (90 days) | No | Yes* |
| Choice | $89.99 | 105+ | 20 | Unlimited (90 days) | No | Yes* |
| Ultimate | $104.99 | 140+ | 20 | Unlimited (90 days) | No | Yes* |
| Premier | $149.99 | 150+ | 20 | Unlimited (90 days) | No | Yes* |
*MeTV availability on DirecTV Stream depends on local market affiliate agreements. Approximately 92% of DirecTV Stream markets include MeTV.
Annual Cost Comparison
When considering whether DirecTV is the right choice for accessing MeTV, it‘s helpful to examine the annual cost compared to alternatives:
| Provider | Lowest Package with MeTV | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | Equipment Fees | Contract Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DirecTV Satellite | Entertainment | $74.99 | $899.88 | $15/mo additional | 2-year |
| DirecTV Stream | Entertainment | $69.99 | $839.88 | None | None |
| Dish Network | America‘s Top 120 | $69.99 | $839.88 | $10/mo additional | 2-year |
| Cable (Average) | Basic | $59.99 | $719.88 | $12/mo additional | Varies |
| OTA Antenna | N/A | Free | Cost of antenna ($30-100) | None | None |
This cost analysis shows why many budget-conscious viewers opt for OTA reception for MeTV, while those valuing convenience and additional channels choose DirecTV.
How to Find MeTV on DirecTV: Advanced Navigation Techniques
If you‘re having trouble locating MeTV on your DirecTV service, here are several methods to find it quickly:
Method 1: Direct Channel Entry
Simply enter "77" on your DirecTV remote and press enter.
Method 2: Voice Search (for compatible remotes)
- Press and hold the microphone button on your DirecTV remote
- Say "Watch MeTV" or "Go to channel 77"
- The system will automatically tune to MeTV
Method 3: Advanced Guide Filtering
- Press the "GUIDE" button on your DirecTV remote
- Press the yellow button for "Options"
- Select "Filter by"
- Choose "Networks" or "Movies & TV Shows"
- Navigate to and select MeTV from the list
Method 4: Custom Favorites List
Creating a custom favorites list can make accessing MeTV quicker:
- Press "MENU" on your remote
- Select "Settings" and then "Favorite Channels"
- Choose "Create New List" or edit an existing list
- Add channel 77 (MeTV) to your favorites
- Access this list anytime by pressing "MENU" and selecting "Favorite Channels"
Method 5: DirecTV Smartphone App Integration
The DirecTV app offers powerful ways to control your viewing:
- Open the DirecTV app on your smartphone
- Sign in with your DirecTV credentials
- Navigate to the "Watch" section
- Search for "MeTV"
- Tap on MeTV from the results
- Select "Watch on TV" to automatically change your DirecTV receiver to MeTV
This app-based method is particularly useful when your remote is misplaced or you‘re already using your smartphone.
MeTV Programming Analysis: What‘s Worth Watching
MeTV‘s programming schedule is organized into themed blocks that appeal to different viewer preferences. Here‘s an analysis of their current lineup with viewership data:
Weekday Programming Blocks
| Time Block | Shows | Average Viewers | Target Demographic | Primetime Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9am-12pm | Classic Sitcoms | 420,000 | Adults 55+ | N/A |
| 12pm-3pm | Westerns | 485,000 | Males 50+ | N/A |
| 3pm-6pm | Early Dramas | 375,000 | Adults 45+ | N/A |
| 6pm-8pm | Classic Action | 520,000 | Adults 35-64 | #3 in classic nets |
| 8pm-11pm | Primetime Favorites | 670,000 | Adults 25-64 | #2 in classic nets |
| 11pm-2am | Late Night Sci-Fi | 315,000 | Adults 25-54 | #4 in classic nets |
Weekend Special Programming
MeTV‘s weekend programming features special blocks that draw particularly strong viewership:
- Svengoolie (Saturday 8pm): Horror and sci-fi films hosted by the character Svengoolie, averaging 720,000 viewers, making it MeTV‘s highest-rated regular program
- Sunday Westerns (Sundays 12pm-6pm): Featuring classic westerns like "Gunsmoke" and "Bonanza," averaging 550,000 viewers
- The Three Stooges (Saturdays 6am-8am): Classic comedy shorts averaging 290,000 viewers, with strong appeal to viewers across age groups
Most Popular MeTV Shows by Viewership
| Show | Average Viewers | Original Run | MeTV Timeslot | Audience Growth (YoY) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAS*H | 780,000 | 1972-1983 | Weeknights 7pm | +4.2% |
| The Andy Griffith Show | 720,000 | 1960-1968 | Weekdays 8:30pm | +3.7% |
| Gunsmoke | 680,000 | 1955-1975 | Weekdays 1pm | +2.1% |
| Perry Mason | 640,000 | 1957-1966 | Weekdays 9am | +1.8% |
| Hogan‘s Heroes | 590,000 | 1965-1971 | Weeknights 10pm | +5.3% |
| The Twilight Zone | 570,000 | 1959-1964 | Late night | +7.2% |
| Bonanza | 560,000 | 1959-1973 | Weekends 2pm | +0.9% |
| The Flintstones | 520,000 | 1960-1966 | Weekdays 6pm | +6.5% |
| Star Trek | 510,000 | 1966-1969 | Saturdays 9pm | +8.3% |
| Wonder Woman | 480,000 | 1975-1979 | Saturdays 7pm | +3.9% |
This data demonstrates the enduring popularity of classic programming and explains why DirecTV continues to include MeTV in its channel lineup.
DirecTV Reception Technology: Getting the Best MeTV Experience
DirecTV delivers MeTV through satellite technology that differs from traditional cable or streaming methods. Understanding this technology can help you optimize your viewing experience.
Satellite Signal Path Analysis
DirecTV‘s delivery of MeTV follows this technical path:
- Signal Origination: MeTV‘s programming feed originates from their broadcast center in Chicago, Illinois
- Uplink Process: The feed is transmitted to DirecTV‘s broadcast centers in California and Colorado
- Satellite Transmission: From these centers, the signal is uplinked to DirecTV‘s satellite fleet in geostationary orbit
- Satellite Reception: Your DirecTV dish receives this signal from the appropriate satellite (typically at the 101°W orbital position)
- Receiver Processing: Your DirecTV receiver decodes the encrypted signal and displays it on your TV
Signal Quality Factors
Several factors affect the quality of your MeTV viewing experience on DirecTV:
| Factor | Impact | Optimization Method |
|---|---|---|
| Dish Alignment | Critical | Professional installation, regular maintenance |
| Weather Conditions | Moderate | Weatherproof dish installation, signal strength monitoring |
| Receiver Model | Significant | Upgrade to latest models for best compression handling |
| Cable Quality | Moderate | Use RG-6 coaxial cable, minimize splitters |
| TV Compatibility | Significant | HD/4K TV with proper input settings |
| Local Reception | Varies | Proper regional spot beam alignment |
Equipment Recommendations for Optimal MeTV Viewing
To get the best possible picture quality when watching MeTV on DirecTV, consider these equipment recommendations:
- Receiver: The Genie HR54 or newer models provide the best signal processing
- Television: 4K TVs with good upscaling technology improve classic 4:3 content
- Audio: External sound systems help compensate for the limited dynamic range of older programming
- Cables: HDMI 2.0 or better ensures proper signal transmission to your TV
Alternative Ways to Watch MeTV Without DirecTV: Comprehensive Options
If you don‘t have DirecTV or are considering other options, there are several alternative ways to watch MeTV:
Over-the-Air (OTA) Broadcasting
MeTV is available for free in most areas
![What Channel Number is MeTV on DirecTV? [Updated]](https://www.techuseful.com/wp-content/themes/TechHome/images/default/noimage_70_70.png)
