We have directtv Choice Plus, and only pay around $35/mo + tax. Right now they're offering free HD for life for new members if you switch to them. They throw in free HD DVR box, etc if you set up autopay. Dish is running the same promo, so directtv matched it. I've been with DTV for as long as I can remember (when did they come out - because I think it's been that long). We're calling tomorrow to see if they'll upgrade us to HD free (we've been wanting to switch) - if not, we're jumping to Dish for free, since we don't have a contract.
However - we don't now, and never have had the pay channels since my early 20's. I don't see the point. I have netflix to cover that, and I just wait for the HBO series shows to come out on DVD and rent them from netflix that way.