EchoStar Expands Voom HD Channels

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2006/Satnews Daily/ — EchoStar Communications Corp. (NASDAQ: DISH) and Rainbow Media Holdings announced on Thursday that EchoStar's Dish Network will expand its offering of Rainbow's Voom HD Networks from 10 to 15 channels.

Voom HD Networks said the announcement reinforces its commitment to fill the HD content void and to create programming that maximizes the HD experience.

As part of its strategy to be the nation's leading provider of HD programming, Dish Network started distributing an initial lineup of 10 Voom HD Networks in the spring of 2005. Telecast in 1080i with Dolby 5.1 surround sound, Voom HD Networks provide 24 hours of high-definition, commercial-free, programming. The new suite of 15 Voom HD channels will be available to consumers on February 1, as part of Dish Network's new DishHD package, which was also introduced today at the 2006 International Consumer Electronics Show.

Greg Moyer, general manager of Voom HD Networks, said growth is an important marker for any brand's success. “We are excited and encouraged by the support we are receiving, and look forward to continuing to infuse lively and original programming into the HD spectrum.”

Since its launch in early 2005, Voom has gone on to produce compelling original HD content for a wide variety of consumer interests including: the largest collection of HD horror films; a live auction of one-of-a-kind memorabilia; animation for kids of all ages and action-adventure sporting events.

The five newly added Voom HD channels will be available to Dish Network customers who obtain Dish Network's new MPEG4 satellite receivers capable of receiving the new HD channels. Customers with MPEG2 equipment can view the current 10 Voom HD channels as well as other previously offered Dish Network HD programming.

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