MTVN Launches Six HD Channels With SES

MTV Networks is launching six high-definition channels in MPEG-4 format on two SES Americom-New Skies satellites.

The six channels -- Nickelodeon HD, MTV HD, VH1 HD, Comedy Central HD, Spike TV HD and CMT HD -- occupy two full transponders on the AMC-10 and AMC-11 satellites.

The MTVN services bring SES Americom-New Skies' HD Prime channel count to 67. Worldwide, the company distributes 136 HD channels via its satellite network.

"With HD Prime, MTV Networks is able to deliver the highest quality picture and maximize bandwidth for its distribution partners," MTVN vice president of distribution technology and affiliate services Mike Aloisi said in a statement.