If they are, why can't they come from a provider like Spectrum or Xfinity. Is it a DRM issue?
Locast sources do come directly from the Locast website, I believe. Locast is re-broadcasting the streams, so there is no affiliation with any cable company or content provider, that I am aware of.
How about Pluto. Don't they have affiliations with providers/ Networks?
I’m not sure I understand your question. Pluto streams come through Pluto directly via publicly available m3us, I believe. They license their content with the content owners, as needed.
I was wondering why the question also.
Maybe he's looking for higher quality/bitrate versions of the streams?
I'm looking for something more reliable than TVE
For your locals? If so, an antenna or cable card will be more reliable. If you’re looking for more reliable cable channels then the cable card HDHomeRun prime is the only option but you’re at the mercy of DRM with it, so your mileage may vary.
DRM is the issue. I couldn't get an answer out of Spectrum. Not going to invest in a Prime without a definite answer.
I had the same experience. They have no idea what channels are DRM and are not. For me, I went ahead and bought the prime because it’s way cheaper monthly ($7 vs $2 I think). So within a couple of years it pays for itself, even though I don’t get many channels from it.