I find on cable, there are shows like never seen before on television, a real break from the network crap shoved down our throats since the 70's. Examples:
1. Breaking Bad, on AMC is one of the best television shows I've ever seen (ranks up next to "The Wire" in my book).
2. Mad Men is very well written and I enjoy every episode
3. Hell on Wheels is probably the best western I've seen on television
(All these are on AMC...)
4. Southland on TNT is one of the best cop shows I've seen in a long time (close to "Homicide" quality).
5. Battlestar Galactica on SyFy was the best science fiction show ever on television. Sadly, the SyFy channel has not been able to come up with any suitable replacement.
6. I don't have premium channels, but get the "Dexter" series each season thru Netflix. It is a very good show.
7. I never miss an episode of "The Walking Dead", very well written and acted.
8. Falling Skies on TNT isn't bad
Before you think I don't watch network tv, well, I don't much but "Lost" held my rapt attention thru every season. This past season, I only watched "The River" on network tv. (it was OK)
Back track 15 years ago and I'd be hard pressed to come up with any decent television shows. Homicide for sure and perhaps NYPD Blue. Pressure from the cable folks has made everyone step up their game, my opinion.