Correct me if I am wrong, but I think Certurylink used to by Quest, till DirectTV bought them. If you plan on getting DirectTV, you might be able to get a nice package deal. My girlfriend use to have Quest and had a lot of problems with the service; she kept having to reset her modem. So if Centurylink is the new name for Quest, then I would stay away.

I live in Phoenix and use COX for internet and Direct for cable (soon to be turned off, due to lack of usage). I have never had a problem with the internet, but they have raised my rates twice in the last year. I still think cable is better than DSL.

As for the modem, I would shop around and see if you find a better deal, but $99 isn't bad, just make sure your not paying anything extra per month.