The NPD Group released a study this week that showed the steady decline of premium channel subscribers over the past two years. NPD Group analyst Russ Crupnick explained that many consumers are attempting to save money by replacing premium channels with streaming services such as Netflix or Hulu Plus, but according to an HBO spokesman, NPD’s “research is simply incorrect.” “Both HBO and Cinemax services have shown significant domestic subscriber growth the past two years,” said the spokesman. The LA Times has gathered statements from HBO, Showtime and Starz representatives, all of whom refute the study and claim that their subscriber base has continued to grow throughout 2013. “Showtime and every other premium network have increased both subscribers and penetrations over the