It seems that of all the CECBs listed in the coupon letter, only a small subset are actually available now and before the coupons expire. Here is my rundown:

#1. Zenith DTT900 - Seems to be the most prevalent box. Available at Radio Shack & Circuit City. Good performance, good remote, overall good reviews on this forum. Audio issue seems to be the only downside. Along with #2, this unit is probably the best box to buy with your coupon.

#2. Insignia NS-DXA1 - Identical clone of the Zenith DTT900, sold at Best Buy.

#3. Digital Stream DTX9900 - Available at some Radio Shack's. Supposedly has a better/farther out EPG. Remote looks a little nicer than the Zenith.

#4 RCA DTA 800A & DTA 800B - Available at Walmart. I haven't researched these units much, but from the forum, I would say the consensus is generally 'OK'.

#5 Magnavox TB100MW9 - Also available at Walmart. Not very favorable reviews. Made by Funai. Said to have very poor cooling and thus not expected to live long. Also has the same god-awful remote as almost every cheap Funai TV & VCR.

The above boxes seem to be the only choice if running out and purchasing a box with a coupon right now is desired (no Fry's where I live, BTW). Also note that these boxes lack the more desirable features allowed in a CECB, such as s-video, Analog Pass-thru, full EPG, etc.


All the rest: A few standouts, but many that seem to be vapor-ware. Many of the manufacturer's websites have "Under construction" [Access HD] or "We'll be shipping REAL SOON" messages [MaxMedia]. Must resort to buying these online from some potentially dodgy sites. Ability to use coupon is questionable. Some/many of the these boxes supposedly won't be available until summer, when the coupons are expired (Which dosen't make a lot of sense, considering the time and money spent to be CECB certified).

One potential standout from this lot: Channel Master CM-7000. Barely made it onto the CECB list. Has s-video. Possibly digital audio hackable, etc. Available from solidsignal.com. Downside is limited availably, and a recently hiked price.


So which CECB will you be buying with your coupons? Is there or will there be a CECB that has "everything" (good performace, good remote, s-video, analog, pass, EPG, etc) that mere mortals can actually get there hands on? Thanks for your input.

With my first coupon I got a RCA DTA800 and I'm pleased with the results so far. It picks up 19 stations in my area (64138) over my ariel while three others were no shows (KMBC 1 and 2, KMCI), The menus and EPG look clean and are easy to read and really I can't complain except for my missing channels and a feature limited remote. For my second coupon I probably go with the Insigina or the Echostar because of the good reviews and the favorable hype surrounding them.

I'm looking for Analog Pass Through. My coupons expire 5/23 before the TR-40 or MaxMedia may enter the marketplace. I expect I may use my own cash to purchase the TR-40. I would hope to read user comments if the MaxMedia ever materializes.

I see that there will be Zenith, Insignia and RCA variants with Analog Pass Through. These may be worth considering but I would assume that retail outlets may hold these back until the non-pass through models have been sold.

I also see several upcoming Digital Stream models with Analog Pass Through. Again this may be an inventory rotation problem.

I will not consider models with poor ventilation. Heat is a killer for electronic products. I know, I used to have a Dell Dimension 4700. I likened that Dell to the explosive Ford Pinto and GM pickups with the side saddle gas tanks. I made sure the FCV P71s I drove had the gas tank modifications/recall kits installed. No sense looking for trouble.

I'm getting at least one CM-7000 because it has S-video. I don't care about analog pass-through, there's no analog that I care about in my area after Feb 2009.

Since I only have one S-video TV, I'll probably get a cheaper second box.

I'm still waiting for my coupons.

On the subject of analog pass-thru: Besides low power analog stations that will exist beyond the transition, it is also very useful to those of us who run in-house UHF modulators (which I am sure many on this forum do) for sending video from security cameras, DBS, DVD, Tivo, etc. to multiple rooms. Without analog pass-thru, an A-B switch or splitter would have used to get signal to the CECB and to the TV's tuner for the analog channels. I would like to avoid that if possible. And from what I have read, it looks like ATSC modulators for home use are a long way away, if they ever do become available (or affordable).

ATSC and QAM modulators are available but they are very expensive. They are used at CATV/MATV and CCTV security systems. You would also need a Mpeg encoder, a MUX, combiners, etc. EXPENSIVE!
Last year, someone who develops and maintains MATV systems for hotels in Las Vegas said that it would cost him $16,000 per channel to do this using hardware that was about to become available, but about $25,000 per channel with hardware that was actually available at the time, but even then, he would also have to get a program provider to authorize a commercial satellite receiver (Motorola, Scientific Atlanta) that puts out an unencrypted data stream for his use in that application. Given the scale and pricing of Vegas Hotels, he would surely be the first among us to be able to justufy the cost of RF channelized distribution of in-house HDTV, so I was hopeful that he would continue to post hee and keep us apprised, but he stopped posting.

Leaving aside HDTV, do you know what hardware is presently available to channelize the output of a digital camera (which I believe is called ASI), such that it can be identified by a consumer television and thereby tuned?

Back on topic...

The Zenith is also available at Fry's when it's not sold out.

I can't believe you left off the Philco TB100HH9. I'm sure there are a few that resell that where you live.

The nice thing about the Philco is that it is $40 locally here in Austin at area HEB's. Not everyone wants to spend an extra $20 on the Insignia/Zenith products.

On the subject of analog pass-thru: Besides low power analog stations that will exist beyond the transition, it is also very useful to those of us who run in-house UHF modulators (which I am sure many on this forum do) for sending video from security cameras, DBS, DVD, Tivo, etc. to multiple rooms. Without analog pass-thru, an A-B switch or splitter would have used to get signal to the CECB and to the TV's tuner for the analog channels. I would like to avoid that if possible. And from what I have read, it looks like ATSC modulators for home use are a long way away, if they ever do become available (or affordable).

Bingo !

And this is why a number of US are looking for analog pass through (use of UHF modulators). It's the same idea as being able to get the LPTV stations. Myself - I use a ChannelPlus MRDDS with 2 UHF modulators, I use this to distribute DBS and my OTA signals.

Any suggestions on actual stores that would stock the philco? The analog pass-thru feature on it does not sound promising according to this thread:

www#wtfda#org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=116&Itemid=43[

"Then there's that RF pass-through that drew me to the Philco - almost useless. I was expecting that this meant that the RF would pass-through simply by turning the box off. No, the box has to be ON for the pass-through to work. You access it by going through several steps in the menus, and then the insertion loss is considerable. It is useful if I use video and audio cables for DTV, and the RF output for the pass-through, but I don't think the general public would go to this effort."

Hopefully this is not how analog pass-thru will work on all the other boxes.

It seems that of all the CECBs listed in the coupon letter, only a small subset are actually available now and before the coupons expire. Here is my rundown: ....

Welcome to AVS & thanks. Hopefully this thread will stay on focus for a quick rundown.

Here are additional available units:
Tivax STB-T9 Set Top Box $49.99 http://www.consumerelecgroup.com/proddetail.php?prod=DTV-TVX - approx $30 shipped for two after the coupons (thanks tzank). Here is a thread on this unit to start (may not be the "official" or most comprehensive): http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1007580

Artec T3A $43.99 http://dtv.bsat.net/pc-17-2-artec-t3a-ntia-certified-convertor-box.aspx - approx $20 shipped for two after coupons. Here is a thread (thanks tzank) on this unit to start (may not be the "official" or most comprehensive): http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1013420

Back on topic...

The Zenith is also available at Fry's when it's not sold out.


I could not find Frys on the NTIA certified retailer list. Are they taking CECB cards in your area? I know somebody managed to use their card, but I thought maybe that was employee error, or in the case of Frys, supervisor error. :p

Finally a thread that kind of "sums up" all of these boxes. My coupons are in the mail, so hopefully I'll receive them in a few weeks. The only boxes I've seen available locally to me are the magnavox, rca, insignia, digital stream, and Zenith models.

Which one of these has the best programming guide and how long does it go out (two hours, 4 hours, etc.)?

Which one of these has the best programming guide and how long does it go out (two hours, 4 hours, etc.)?

Check here [for at least the hours]: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_CECB_units

The only boxes I've seen available locally to me are the magnavox, rca, insignia, digital stream, and Zenith models.

Which one of these has the best programming guide and how long does it go out (two hours, 4 hours, etc.)?


Of the boxes mentioned only the Digital Stream DTX9900 seems to have a 8 hour EPG, all the rest have only now/next. If you can find a Channel Master CM-7000 at Fry's (which is not near me) or online at solidsignal.com, it purports to have a 12hr EPG.

TalkingRat,

If you're interested in the Channel Master watch the Frys ads for it to be priced around $60. They have advertised that price at least twice in the last few weeks, once before and once after the box qualified for the coupon discount. Their regular price for the Channel Master is around $80. If you see other brands at Frys be sure to let us know.

A few weeks ago the small Vern Wengler store at 5904 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy was listed on the NTIA webiste as a converter box retailer. I stopped in to see what they had. Nothing. They said that they expected to have the Channel Master as that's what their distributor has but they didn't know when it would arrive. (At that time the Channel Master was not yet NTIA certified.) Vern Wengler is no longer listed by NTIA as a converter box retailer.

Another local retailer is Standard TV and Appliance. I visited the store on SE 82nd. They had the Zenith at $59.00, a 99 cent savings from what Radio Shack and Circuit City charge. I talked with one of their salesmen who had just applied for his coupons the day before. When I mentioned that there were converter box discussions on the AVS Forum he asked what the general opinion was. I told him that the discussions favored the Zenith as the one to buy. The very next day came the first AVS postings about the audio problems with the Zenith (and Insignia). I had just visited the nearby Wal-Mart that had display Magnavox and RCA models but both models were sold out. Wal-Mart has prices under $50 for either model.

The last time I visited the Radio Shack in Kenton I found a few Zeniths with November manufacturing dates. They said they may get a Digital Stream but they did not yet know the model number. That same day I visited the Circuit City on Jantzen Beach. CC had just sold their last Zenith but they expected to get more.

Wow, DigaDo, you have made the rounds. How depressing, to find so little choice. I was waiting for coupons before I went looking, but I may check out Frys. Outpost.com dropped the CM-7000 price -- and they do not call it a sale.

I wanted to spend the coupons first and save the full price purchase for last, in case a good non-CECB came out. After all this online time, I am no closer to a plan.

Hopefully this is not how analog pass-thru will work on all the other boxes.I'm amazed that this feature is so hard to obtain, and that they found a way to do it wrong, considering that it's available on almost every VCR ever made -- even the ones that sold (sell?) for under fifty bucks.

Meiers has the philco for$49.99. the walmart in greenwood has around 100 magnavox units, not an exaggeration.

TalkingRat,

Here's a more recent post with some local information:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13562540#post13562540

Sounds like great coverage. Radio Shack online shows what's in stock for each store, but of course I plan to call first anyway. Two weeks ago only one local RS had both DS and Zenith, and now it looks like they are all well stocked with both. Maybe that's how "it's in the mail" works, it really means they give the stores a couple weeks to stock up.

DigaDo, So I went to Frys, they had only the CM-7000, 3 boxes (all open, one bulging) stashed on a shelf under a giant HDTV next to the HDTV "ask me" area. Like people would look for this among the giant HDTVs. That was all they had, not on sale, $80. They may re-stock when they run their next ad.

The Frys by me had a pallet load of the CM sitting in the aisle...of course they were by the computer motherboards and weren't anywhere near the audio-video area.

Any plans by wholesale clubs (Sam's Club, Costco, BJ's) or other retailers (Target, Sears, K-Mart, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Fred Meyer) to peddle CECBs?

From what I've heard, Sears has had none in their stores yet; they had one model on its web site (a Philco I think) but removed it.

A couple users have noted other retailers, and while their names don't stick in my mind, your mention of Fred Meyer reminds me that one of them was Meijer's.

Meijer's has a Philco (with pass-through, I believe), and Target is supposed to carry something eventually. Most likely a GE since they sell a lot of their A/V stuff. Or possibly RCA, because they're from the same company.

....Your mention of Fred Meyer reminds me that one of them was Meijer's. Fred Meyer (http://www.fredmeyer.com) is a major discount department store serving Oregon, Idaho, Washington and Alaska. Given the Fred Meyer (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_Meyer) marketing model, I've been surprised they haven't become NTIA certified for the CECB program.

BJ's Wholesale Club, Sam's Club and Costco Wholesale have certainly peddled millions of analog-only TVs in recent years, it seems strange they don't offer their members CECBs or discounted non-CECB high-definition ATSC tuners like the Samsung 260.

Picked up two CM-7000's from Solidsignal right before the price hike....got them for $68.95 each minus $80 in coupons.

I got them Saturday, but have not tried them out yet. I wanted the s-video capability.

I will not consider models with poor ventilation. Heat is a killer for electronic products. I know, I used to have a Dell Dimension 4700. I likened that Dell to the explosive Ford Pinto and GM pickups with the side saddle gas tanks. I made sure the FCV P71s I drove had the gas tank modifications/recall kits installed. No sense looking for trouble. Astute observation. The Funai-produced boxes (Magnavox in particular) are seriously lacking ventilation.

as far as I see
... CECBs available now ...:

#1. Zenith DTT900 - Seems to be the most prevalent box. Available at Radio Shack & Circuit City. Good performance, good remote, overall good reviews on this forum. Audio issue seems to be the only downside. Along with #2, this unit is probably the best box to buy with your coupon.

#2. Insignia NS-DXA1 - Identical clone of the Zenith DTT900, sold at Best Buy.

#3. Digital Stream DTX9900 - Available at some Radio Shack's. Supposedly has a better/farther out EPG. Remote looks a little nicer than the Zenith.

#4 RCA DTA 800A & DTA 800B - Available at Walmart. I haven't researched these units much, but from the forum, I would say the consensus is generally 'OK'. Online: $7.99 after coupon & S&H: bsat.net (http://dtv.bsat.net/pc-18-2-rca-dta800-ntia-certified-convertor-box.aspx) (not sure which extension model).

#5 Magnavox TB100MW9 - Also available at Walmart. Not very favorable reviews. Made by Funai. Said to have very poor cooling and thus not expected to live long. Also has the same god-awful remote as almost every cheap Funai TV & VCR.

The above boxes seem to be the only choice if running out and purchasing a box with a coupon right now is desired (no Fry's where I live, BTW). Also note that these boxes lack the more desirable features allowed in a CECB, such as s-video, Analog Pass-thru, full EPG, etc.


All the rest: A few standouts, but many that seem to be vapor-ware. Many of the manufacturer's websites have "Under construction" [Access HD] or "We'll be shipping REAL SOON" messages [MaxMedia]. Must resort to buying these online from some potentially dodgy sites. Ability to use coupon is questionable. Some/many of the these boxes supposedly won't be available until summer, when the coupons are expired (Which dosen't make a lot of sense, considering the time and money spent to be CECB certified).

One potential standout from this lot: Channel Master CM-7000. Barely made it onto the CECB list. Has s-video. Possibly digital audio hackable, etc. Available from solidsignal.com. Downside is limited availably, and a recently hiked price.


Tivax STB-T9 EPG (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1007580) $48.95 at Consumerelecgroup.com (http://www.consumerelecgroup.com/proddetail.php?prod=DTV-TVX)- approx $30 shipped for two after the coupons.

Artec T3A Pro NTIA CECB (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1013420) at bsat.net (http://dtv.bsat.net/pc-17-2-artec-t3a-ntia-certified-convertor-box.aspx) - approx $20 shipped for two after coupons.

Philco TB100HH9 DTV Converter Box (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1008310), price ranging from $40 to $70

Channel Master CM-7000 Digital to Analog Converter (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1004274)

Sansonic FT300A DTV Converter Box (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1008314) available online for $19.99 after coupon: Solid signal (http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?PROD=FT-300A)

Microgem MG2000 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1014194) at Solid Signal.com (http://www.solidsignal.com/dtv2009/) for $64.99 (before coupon) + S&H (~$9.95)

Winegard Rc-dt09 Cecb (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1017310) at Solidsignal.com (http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?PROD=RC-DT09) for $62.99 + S&H (~$9.95)

Lasonic LTA-260 at solidsignal.com (http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?PROD=LTA-260) for $54.99 + S&H (~$9.95) -avsforum search on Lasonic (no direct thread) (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/gtsearch.php?cx=001381781930431233427%3Apbbbasrrsh8&cof=FORID%3A11&q=Lasonic+#1232)

Goodmind DTA900 & Goodmind DTA1000 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1026559) at Eagleworldindustries.com (http://eagleworldindustries.com/shop/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=12) for $45 and $47, respectively (both before coupons) & S/H. (S&H to NJ calculated to $5 for either one or two units). Per http://www.freedtvshop.com "THE GOODMIND DTA-1000 IS THE SAME CONVERTER BOX AS THE GE/JASCO 22729 WITH A METAL HOUSING"

Coship CECB (no reviews/real product summary yet) (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1001351) for $45.99 (before coupon) plus S&H at bsat (http://dtv.bsat.net/pc-16-2-coship-9900t-ntia-certified-convertor-box.aspx)

AccessHD DTA1010D (https://www.digitalstar.com/product.aspx?guid=bde14cab-d731-44a7-8c8b-ece5d9ea0f5e) available for $13.95 after coupon plus S&H or here Happy Iguana (http://www.tvconverterboxstore.com/servlet/Categories) for $16.99 (after coupon) plus $4.99 S&H.

Microprose MPI-500 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1028081) available (unknown where from though)

Apex DT250 Digital Converter Box (http://www.globalhdllc.com/item.php?item_id=449&page=2&category_id=46) for $24.99 after coupon + S/H

Venturer Digital-to-Analog Converter Box (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1036480) at Target

Gridlink GLT-200 Converter Box for $42.99 before coupon + ~ S&H of $12 (for one) or $14 (for two) (https://egridlink.com/products.aspx)

Also, where brands have multiple units, they are probably available too (ex. Magnavox, GE). I will discontinue updating soon as more vendors and models are becoming available.

Use your judgement accordingly. My post is merely a summary of the available CECBs with one reference (may not be the best informative or most comprehensive thread). Please do your own homework on best vendors/prices. Start here: mydtv2009.gov -VendorSearch (https://www.mydtv2009.gov/VendorSearch.aspx).

Also see Malouff's post [#35 below]

left out the microgem mg2000, i bought it open box from solid signal, regularly $64.99 + shipping. I like it, not amazing but not a mistake buying it. It has extended epg!!!!

left out the microgem mg2000, i bought it open box from solid signal, regularly $64.99 + shipping. I like it, not amazing but not a mistake buying it. It has extended epg!!!!

Thanks for the notice, I've updated my list. BTW, I didn't include it as Solid Signal states "Pre Orders Only" so I presumed that it wasn't available yet. This thread is for CECB's available now.

I'll continue to update the available CECB's as best as I can (until there is a large influx of different available units). To possibly make it easier, I will mirror the list in the FAQ: The $40 Coupon Digital TV Converter Boxes (CECBs) (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1018492)Sticky thread

I had moved my price list into my EPG thread
But because it was becoming very outdated I removed it.

NTIA approved (CECBs) - Electronic program guides (EPG) - Menu Styles Used

Consumer Electronics Group at www.consumerelecgroup.com
Referral Program
Artec T3A Pro (http://www.consumerelecgroup.com/proddetail.php?prod=DTV-GVT)
Price: $43.95
Shipping: $8.59
Total: $12.54

Tivax STB-T9 (http://www.consumerelecgroup.com/proddetail.php?prod=DTV-TVX)
Price: $48.95
Shipping: $12.12
Total: $21.07


I was told by consumerelecgroup.com "It is $8.59 to ship 1, $12.12 for 2" back on April 4th, but it calculated $15.09 to NJ (average S&H of $7.55 each)

E & E Electronics at www.digitalstar.com
Artec T3A Pro (http://www.digitalstar.com/product/9a93d138-4696-41be-b323-1cb65229223b.aspx)
Price: $43.95
Shipping: ? (did not check)
Total: ?

TIVAX STB-T9 (http://www.digitalstar.com/product/26c01eb4-001e-4615-9fb8-a90f4e8d682a.aspx)
Price: $45.95
Shipping: ? (did not check)
Total: ?
They ask for payment information before showing shipping charge.


I e-mailed DigitalStar. S&H [to NJ] is $7.50 for Artec and $8 for Tivax (doesn't appear to be any combined S&H discount - ex. if buying both)

It seems that of all the CECBs listed in the coupon letter, only a small subset are actually available now and before the coupons expire. Here is my rundown:

#1. Zenith DTT900 - Seems to be the most prevalent box. Available at Radio Shack & Circuit City. Good performance, good remote, overall good reviews on this forum. Audio issue seems to be the only downside. Along with #2, this unit is probably the best box to buy with your coupon.

#2. Insignia NS-DXA1 - Identical clone of the Zenith DTT900, sold at Best Buy.

#3. Digital Stream DTX9900 - Available at some Radio Shack's. Supposedly has a better/farther out EPG. Remote looks a little nicer than the Zenith.

#4 RCA DTA 800A & DTA 800B - Available at Walmart. I haven't researched these units much, but from the forum, I would say the consensus is generally 'OK'.

#5 Magnavox TB100MW9 - Also available at Walmart. Not very favorable reviews. Made by Funai. Said to have very poor cooling and thus not expected to live long. Also has the same god-awful remote as almost every cheap Funai TV & VCR.

The above boxes seem to be the only choice if running out and purchasing a box with a coupon right now is desired (no Fry's where I live, BTW). Also note that these boxes lack the more desirable features allowed in a CECB, such as s-video, Analog Pass-thru, full EPG, etc.


All the rest: A few standouts, but many that seem to be vapor-ware. Many of the manufacturer's websites have "Under construction" [Access HD] or "We'll be shipping REAL SOON" messages [MaxMedia]. Must resort to buying these online from some potentially dodgy sites. Ability to use coupon is questionable. Some/many of the these boxes supposedly won't be available until summer, when the coupons are expired (Which dosen't make a lot of sense, considering the time and money spent to be CECB certified).

One potential standout from this lot: Channel Master CM-7000. Barely made it onto the CECB list. Has s-video. Possibly digital audio hackable, etc. Available from solidsignal.com. Downside is limited availably, and a recently hiked price.


So which CECB will you be buying with your coupons? Is there or will there be a CECB that has "everything" (good performace, good remote, s-video, analog, pass, EPG, etc) that mere mortals can actually get there hands on? Thanks for your input.


WAIT for the 02 box from maxmedia in June. I think that it is going to happen and will be in ample supply, as they are the ONLY guys that have done mod to reflect needed changes, due to box failures. great news for all.

WAIT for the 02 box from maxmedia in June. I think that it is going to happen and will be in ample supply, as they are the ONLY guys that have done mod to reflect needed changes, due to box failures. great news for all.
Wrong

Magnavox g9 with passthru now in stores.

RCA b1 coming in weeks with Smart Antenna and passthru

There are many boxes coming out now that have the same features as MM and they don't lie to customers. I am stuck with no money and no box

MM is now off NTIA list and so is Memsen. They cant sell without approval. Do you really believe June delivery? I don't

I wished i never gave my money to MM

WAIT for the 02 box from maxmedia in June. I think that it is going to happen and will be in ample supply, as they are the ONLY guys that have done mod to reflect needed changes, due to box failures. great news for all.

Lets see:

The MaxMedia-02 box does not even have CECB approval yet.

The "exclusive" retailer Convertmy.tv has been taken off the approved retailer list, and it has been reported they are under investigation by NTIA's legal counsel.

How is this particular box great news for all?

Box failures? Don't you mean field test results reported by Competitor Microtune CEO, attempting to get people to wait for his tuner, still in vaporware products? That report did wonders for his stock. Not.

ps circuit77, for someone who has been here less than 2 days, you certainly are selling the MM-02 all over town.

Lets see:

The MaxMedia-02 box does not even have CECB approval yet.

The "exclusive" retailer Convertmy.tv has been taken off the approved retailer list, and it has been reported they are under investigation by NTIA's legal counsel.

How is this particular box great news for all?

Box failures? Don't you mean field test results reported by Competitor Microtune CEO, attempting to get people to wait for his tuner, still in vaporware products? That report did wonders for his stock. Not.

ps circuit77, for someone who has been here less than 2 days, you certainly are selling the MM-02 all over town.

"and it has been reported they are under investigation by NTIA's legal counsel."

Where did you get this particular info? link?

Lets see:

The MaxMedia-02 box does not even have CECB approval yet.

The "exclusive" retailer Convertmy.tv has been taken off the approved retailer list, and it has been reported they are under investigation by NTIA's legal counsel.

How is this particular box great news for all?

Box failures? Don't you mean field test results reported by Competitor Microtune CEO, attempting to get people to wait for his tuner, still in vaporware products? That report did wonders for his stock. Not.

ps circuit77, for someone who has been here less than 2 days, you certainly are selling the MM-02 all over town.


Agreed, you are entitled to your opinion, however "I choose" to believe that my coupon can be used on a MM box, and who knows ! I just may be correct. I have no affiliation with MM, just simply like the product... can see many obvious errors by many retailers and manufacturers - man just chill out ! Agreed that I have not given them any cc as yet, so just may be "your slightly annoyed" thats OK, lets just stay on topic and be professional about this.

With respect.:)

"and it has been reported they are under investigation by NTIA's legal counsel."

Where did you get this particular info? link?


Just stating my opinion, as are you. Lets stay focused, and objective!

With Respect.

n4yqt has already provided the link.

TalkingRat,

If you're interested in the Channel Master watch the Frys ads for it to be priced around $60. They have advertised that price at least twice in the last few weeks, once before and once after the box qualified for the coupon discount. Their regular price for the Channel Master is around $80. If you see other brands at Frys be sure to let us know.

A few weeks ago the small Vern Wengler store at 5904 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy was listed on the NTIA webiste as a converter box retailer. I stopped in to see what they had. Nothing. They said that they expected to have the Channel Master as that's what their distributor has but they didn't know when it would arrive. (At that time the Channel Master was not yet NTIA certified.) Vern Wengler is no longer listed by NTIA as a converter box retailer.

Another local retailer is Standard TV and Appliance. I visited the store on SE 82nd. They had the Zenith at $59.00, a 99 cent savings from what Radio Shack and Circuit City charge. I talked with one of their salesmen who had just applied for his coupons the day before. When I mentioned that there were converter box discussions on the AVS Forum he asked what the general opinion was. I told him that the discussions favored the Zenith as the one to buy. The very next day came the first AVS postings about the audio problems with the Zenith (and Insignia). I had just visited the nearby Wal-Mart that had display Magnavox and RCA models but both models were sold out. Wal-Mart has prices under $50 for either model.

The last time I visited the Radio Shack in Kenton I found a few Zeniths with November manufacturing dates. They said they may get a Digital Stream but they did not yet know the model number. That same day I visited the Circuit City on Jantzen Beach. CC had just sold their last Zenith but they expected to get more.

Digado, how do I find out when Frys drops their price to $60? I have local Frys store in San Diego, CA. My coupon expires end of May, so need to buy one soon.

Digado, how do I find out when Frys drops their price to $60? I have local Frys store in San Diego, CA. My coupon expires end of May, so need to buy one soon.


If you'd read here before typing you'd know that Fry's is not participating in the coupon program. So you will have to find a retailer that does. :)

I have spent 35 yrs in retail and think that the biggest change to television since th einseption of colour, will not be at all smooth...

Agree, I think that no matter how much the change is Promoted, PSA'd, Crawled, etc.. there will still be those who get up the next morning and wonder why their Tv no longer works..and no doubt think that Jerico thing that was on TV finally happened...:rolleyes:

And ..that it's just a ploy to make them get cable or a dish that they don;t want and can't afford..and get more of their money.:)

It seems that of all the CECBs listed in the coupon letter, only a small subset are actually available now and before the coupons expire.........

........Many [CECBs] that seem to be vapor-ware. Many of the manufacturer's websites have "Under construction" [Access HD] or "We'll be shipping REAL SOON" messages [MaxMedia]. Must resort to buying these online from some potentially dodgy sites. Ability to use coupon is questionable. Some/many of the these boxes supposedly won't be available until summer, when the coupons are expired (Which dosen't make a lot of sense, considering the time and money spent to be CECB certified). Dozens of boxes have obtained NTIA certification but only about ten different models have actually been shipped, purchased by real users, and given some sort of user reviews.

A great concern I have is that these delays suggest that many of the CECB box manufacturers either don't really know what they are doing, or possibly are facing hassles in obtaining licensing to use the ATSC patents controlled by Rembrandt Technologies. Quality control could be a problem for end users if poor design is combined with lackluster build quality and insufficient "real world" testing.

The ideal box would feature the picture quality and RF reception capabilities of the Zenith/Insignia boxes, superior audio performance, the big-button "friendly remote" design of the RCA DTA-800B, robust closed-captioning performance, S-video output, timer features for recording, hassle-free analog pass-through, adequate heat ventilation, and day-to-day dependability. This "ideal box" hasn't come to market yet.

To Circuit77

I think that the purpose and intent of the forum is do do just that, however I do feel that the program to date has become a little disrupted and can now be viewed as a muddle. I have spent 35 yrs in retail and think that the biggest change to television since th einseption of colour, will not be at all smooth...

I appreciate that several main issues still reflect poorly on the CECB program, and agree that all posts should stay as positive as possible to help all those older folks (like me) whom may be seeking positive information.

I think it is more important to be truthful. Then to be positive just for the sake of being positive. The boards are for truth. If a company has taken money for a box that does not exist. Then this needs to be told to ALL. So no one else gets caught in the scam. I was not told that they did not have a box when I ordered. The box model number was then changed and the company and box was removed from NTiA list. So what is there to be positive about? Except positive it is a scam or was.

Will there ever be a box?

Lexus, to clarify, the original box is still on the CECB approved list, without the analog pass through that the retailer advertised. It was connectmy.tv aka memsen that was removed from both the online retailers list and the participating retailers list.

I have spent 35 yrs in retail and think that the biggest change to television since th einseption of colour, will not be at all smooth...
I remember the addition to color as going very smooth. If you had a black and white TV, you still got black and white. If you went out and spent big bucks on a color TV, then you got color.

It was the addition of the UHF channels that caused problems. Unless you had a new TV and a new antenna, you couldn't get the new UHF stations. There were not government coupons to help with the cost of the new antenna. There were no UHF to VHF converter boxes. The new UHF stations were upset also because most people could not receive their broadcasts.

There were no UHF to VHF converter boxes.

There were add-on UHF tuners. I suppose a TV serviceman must have had to install them, because I don't think TVs generally had any inputs other than antenna inputs back then. Or did they connect to the antenna inputs, in which case they would have had to include an RF modulator?

Your memory must be better than mine!

Your memory must be better than mine!

See this photo, originally posted elsewhere on avsforum.

There were no UHF to VHF converter boxes.There certainly were!  We had one that my brother acquired somehow when the first station here on a UHF frequency (WCIU, still on channel 26 in Chicago under the same call letters) opened.  The box had a power cord, some twin-lead to connect to a television, and a hoop antenna.  The front had an on-off switch and a (continuous) channel selector that doubled as the fine tuning knob in those days long before electronic tuning.  It modulated the selected UHF signal to VHF 3, and you connected its outgoing twin-lead to the same screws on the TV as the VHF rabbit ears.

I suppose a TV serviceman must have had to install them, because I don't think TVs generally had any inputs other than antenna inputs back then. Or did they connect to the antenna inputs, in which case they would have had to include an RF modulator?The ones I remember included a modulator and connected to the antenna inputs.

Soon thereafter all new TVs included UHF tuners to cover channels 14-83 (yes, 83; that was cut back to 69 some time later).

Digado, how do I find out when Frys drops their price to $60? I have local Frys store in San Diego, CA. My coupon expires end of May, so need to buy one soon.

Frys still does not appear to be participating in the NTIA Converter Box Coupon Program so you may have to pay full price at Frys.

Online sellers have been offering the Channel Master. See this post:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13657383#post13657383

The UHF change was gradual, though. It wasn't all that popular at first, and people didn't necessarily run out and buy roof antennas or new tvs, or converters. My major networks are VHF, and I still see VHF-only roof antennas. When they added more UHF channels a decade ago, I couldn't get cable channels 59-71 on one tv, but I lived with it. This isn't a change people will can live with. The 17% who say they will do nothing will be in for a shock.

There were add-on UHF tuners. I suppose a TV serviceman must have had to install them, because I don't think TVs generally had any inputs other than antenna inputs back then. Or did they connect to the antenna inputs, in which case they would have had to include an RF modulator?

Tucked away in a drawer in this house is an old Blonder-Tongue UHF converter, that was connected to the TV via the antenna input. Before that, we had a Channel Master model

Not necessarily, some of them will still be able to still enjoy watching their analog low power and translator TV stations ;-)


From what i have been reading, the government will be pushing dollars to these low power stations and translators to help them convert to digital.? maybe from auction proceeds from the refarming of upper uhf channels same place the money came from for the CECB boxes.

Not necessarily, some of them will still be able to still enjoy watching their analog low power and translator TV stations ;-)Is there any location in the US where all currently available analog OTA stations will continue to broadcast in analog after 2009-02-17, because every one of them is a translator or Class A or low-power and every one of them chooses to continue analog transmission?  (The place could also have digital stations reaching it, so long as all analog stations reaching it now will still be available after 2009-02-17.)

That is, is there any location in the US where absolutely no analog station operating now will go off the air because of the February 17, 2009, cutover for full-power analog broadcasts?

The San Luis Valley in Colorado surrounded by mountains is such a location.

Try a TVFool search for Alamosa where I live 81101, or Antonito 81120 closer to San Antonio Mtn.

Don't believe our Digital TVFool Results and laugh at the Xmit power here
I sent email's to most of my local tv operators that I got from a FCC Search
Most will remain analog for 2-3 years after the transition.

Steve Laughrin K45GD translator will be digital some time after the 2/17/09 date. It may take up to two years for this to happen. We filed for a CP to go digital but the CP is good for three years

Dan Zillich at KNME-TV said K28GV, has both analog and a digital point to point relay on channel 25 coming from San Antonio Mtn. at this time.

Carol Cornum K63AN and the other translator channels will be changed to dtv but not on 2/17/09. Channel 63 will move to channel 49 probably this fall.

KENY-LP located in Alamosa should be Digital and Analog both on 39 according to TVFool:confused:

Also according to TVFool all will continue to be Analog.

n4yqt is right, they could be informed viewers who know the state of their own digital conversion plan. Much of my own state outside metro areas may remain entirely analog, but no telling for how long. If it's people who have their heads in the sand, we will hear about them next February. :-)

Your memory must be better than mine!

I don't remember using or seeing any of the add-on UHF tuners myself. My first memories of TV as a kid are from about 1959, and our TV had UHF built in. It had a double tuning dial: the inner knob had click-stops for the channels, and the outer ring was for fine-tuning. Actually, two double tuning dials, one for VHF and one for UHF. We had to set the VHF dial on "U" in order to use the UHF dial.

I don't remember using or seeing any of the add-on UHF tuners myself. My first memories of TV as a kid are from about 1959, and our TV had UHF built in. It had a double tuning dial: the inner knob had click-stops for the channels, and the outer ring was for fine-tuning. Actually, two double tuning dials, one for VHF and one for UHF. We had to set the VHF dial on "U" in order to use the UHF dial.

In a nearby closet (on my lap, currently) is a 1974 catalog from Lafayette Electronics. This catalog was published roughly 10 years following the FCC mandate for UHF tuners in all new televisions, but on page 293 of the catalog there are two UHF set top converters for sale, both from Blonder Tongue. The basic model had a $20.55 price tag, and for $24.45 one could be purchased that had a built-in amplifier. Both featured a continuous rotary dial tuner, the standard UHF tuner of the time.

Also according to TVFool all will continue to be Analog.

I'm learning not to trust TVFool when it comes to low powers and translators.

For instance, here in the OC, I have 3 very strong analog LP's that don't appear on TVFool at all. This isn't some topographic anomaly - the FCC site says I'm smack in the middle of the coverage area for these guys.

It also appears that TVFool assumes that any analog LP or translator will still be analog and on the same channel after next February. It shows that we'll continue to have several LPs above channel 51, and I know at least a few of them will have to be bumped for the new telecommunications services. They've got one on channel 55 that I'm pretty sure has been bumped already.

I'm learning not to trust TVFool when it comes to low powers and translators.

For instance, here in the OC, I have 3 very strong analog LP's that don't appear on TVFool at all. This isn't some topographic anomaly - the FCC site says I'm smack in the middle of the coverage area for these guys.

It also appears that TVFool assumes that any analog LP or translator will still be analog and on the same channel after next February. It shows that we'll continue to have several LPs above channel 51, and I know at least a few of them will have to be bumped for the new telecommunications services. They've got one on channel 55 that I'm pretty sure has been bumped already.The problem isn't with TVFool, it's with the data that the stations provide to the FCC that TVFool extracts from the FCC website. Some stations don't seem to have a firm idea as to when they will transition to digital, so the database have information on them being on both analog and digital on the same frequency at the same time.

My first memories of TV as a kid are from about 1959, and our TV had UHF built in.You probably grew up in an area that had UHF stations already.

We had relatives in Peoria, Illnois, and I remember that they received the three major networks on channels 19, 31, and 43 -- don't ask me for call letters or for which channel carried which network.  So while they had televisions with built-in UHF tuners (as JTBell said, you had to turn the VHF tuner knob to "U" -- which I remember seeing between 13 and 2 -- and then select the UHF station with another knob), ours in Chicago had VHF-only tuners.  To get UHF stations, one had to add a converter or buy a new television.

Back on topic....

I can't believe you left off the Philco TB100HH9. I'm sure there are a few that resell that where you live.

The nice thing about the Philco is that it is $40 locally here in Austin at area HEB's. Not everyone wants to spend an extra $20 on the Insignia/Zenith products.

Unfortunately the Philco seems to have disappeared from the market circa April 7.

Google TB100HH9 and check the online retailers. Most now say they're out of stock. One even says to check back in June! (Some who don't take the coupons still seem to have a few.)

I suspect the same is true of the HEBs and Meijers: once the stores sell their stock they'll find they can't get any more. But I don't know for sure because those stores aren't in my area.

Has anyone gotten a Philco which was ordered with a coupon after 4/7? If so, where? (I ordered mine from etronics.com that day and I'm still waiting for it four weeks later.)

I talked to a neighbor the other day who is a certified coupon dealer. He has something like 65 of the Philco boxes in stock.

Back on topic....



Unfortunately the Philco seems to have disappeared from the market circa April 7.

Google TB100HH9 and check the online retailers. Most now say they're out of stock. One even says to check back in June! (Some who don't take the coupons still seem to have a few.)

I suspect the same is true of the HEBs and Meijers: once the stores sell their stock they'll find they can't get any more. But I don't know for sure because those stores aren't in my area.

Has anyone gotten a Philco which was ordered with a coupon after 4/7? If so, where? (I ordered mine from etronics.com that day and I'm still waiting for it four weeks later.)
Philco at Fred Meyers

Fred Meyers in the Portland area of Oregon was supposed to get
in the Sylvania this past Monday. When I called, they had received
Philco. From discussions here, I knew this was essentially the same
as the Magnavox-Sylvania, but with the possibility of analog pass-through.

They let me read a manual before buying, and it described analog-pass through.
So I got it. 49.95 - making it 9.95 with coupon. The pass-through
does indeed work.

After reading discussions here, I decided to get one local 9.95 box
with pass-through, and possibly mail-order something like the Artec
with the better EPG.

At the same time, the Kmarts in this area are just starting to get
Magnavoxes, but tend to be out -- this may be the supposed second
generation that has the pass-through.

Target seems to have been coy about describing its upcoming offerings
to others here. Our Target says it will be receiving two GE types on
May 18 -- one will be 49.95 and one 59.95. One can guess what the
difference might be -- perhaps one has the extended EPG or analog
pass through?

Artec has a now/next EPG like the Zenith. The Philco already has a better EPG.

There are only two GE's the 22729 that has smart antenna and the 22730 without.
The Goodmind is suppose to be identical to the GE.

See the Goodmind thread for a review or my EPG Styles for pictures of EPG's.

Provantage was able to use my $40 coupon before it expired 5/23 and placed my order for an Echostar TR-40 that will ship in June. Cost was $42.50 plus 6.95 shipping minus the $40 coupon. Final amount "out of pocket" $9.45

Philco at Fred Meyers

Fred Meyers in the Portland area of Oregon was supposed to get
in the Sylvania this past Monday. When I called, they had received
Philco. From discussions here, I knew this was essentially the same
as the Magnavox-Sylvania, but with the possibility of analog pass-through.

Thanks. It's good to know someone still has them for sale.

Portland is a bit of a drive from Dallas, though. I'd be better off driving 50 miles south to the nearest HEB if I knew they still had them in stock.

As I understand it, the Magnavox/Sylvania TB100MG9 has pass-through and is probably identical to the Philco except for the case. There's another Magnavox, the TB100MW9, which is the one available at Wal-Mart and which lacks pass-through. The models with pass-through have been hard to find lately.

Provantage was able to use my $40 coupon before it expired 5/23 and placed my order for an Echostar TR-40 that will ship in June. Cost was $42.50 plus 6.95 shipping minus the $40 coupon. Final amount "out of pocket" $9.45

Did you order online or call the 800 number? I was going to order online but there is no place to input the coupon codes, just credit card info. Also, has anyone else had experience ordering from Provantage? From what I've read, they seem to have good ratings. TIA.
Terri T.

Did you order online or call the 800 number? I was going to order online but there is no place to input the coupon codes, just credit card info. Also, has anyone else had experience ordering from Provantage? From what I've read, they seem to have good ratings. TIA.
Terri T.

Provantage appears to be a telephone retailer, even though they have a website catering to other electronics.


https://www.dtv2009.gov/VendorSearch.aspx

I don't remember using or seeing any of the add-on UHF tuners myself. My first memories of TV as a kid are from about 1959, and our TV had UHF built in. It had a double tuning dial: the inner knob had click-stops for the channels, and the outer ring was for fine-tuning. Actually, two double tuning dials, one for VHF and one for UHF. We had to set the VHF dial on "U" in order to use the UHF dial.

You probably grew up in an area that had UHF stations already.

We had relatives in Peoria, Illnois, and I remember that they received the three major networks on channels 19, 31, and 43 -- don't ask me for call letters or for which channel carried which network.* So while they had televisions with built-in UHF tuners (as JTBell said, you had to turn the VHF tuner knob to "U" -- which I remember seeing between 13 and 2 -- and then select the UHF station with another knob), ours in Chicago had VHF-only tuners.* To get UHF stations, one had to add a converter or buy a new television.


This 2 dial setup hung around until TV's changes tubes to transistors & mechanical tuners were replaced with digital tuners. Sometime in the 70's, I think :confused:

This 2 dial setup hung around until TV's changes tubes to transistors & mechanical tuners were replaced with digital tuners. Sometime in the 70's, I think :confused:

Heathkit introduced one of the first (or, perhaps, the first) televisions with a digital onscreen display, and electronic pushbutton tuning, back around 1974. The tuner itself used varactor diodes, and in later years they advertised it as "the set that brought TV into the digital age."

It seems that of all the CECBs listed in the coupon letter, only a small subset are actually available now and before the coupons expire. Here is my rundown:

#1. Zenith DTT900 - Seems to be the most prevalent box. Available at Radio Shack & Circuit City. Good performance, good remote, overall good reviews on this forum. Audio issue seems to be the only downside. Along with #2, this unit is probably the best box to buy with your coupon.

#2. Insignia NS-DXA1 - Identical clone of the Zenith DTT900, sold at Best Buy.

#3. Digital Stream DTX9900 - Available at some Radio Shack's. Supposedly has a better/farther out EPG. Remote looks a little nicer than the Zenith.

#4 RCA DTA 800A & DTA 800B - Available at Walmart. I haven't researched these units much, but from the forum, I would say the consensus is generally 'OK'.

#5 Magnavox TB100MW9 - Also available at Walmart. Not very favorable reviews. Made by Funai. Said to have very poor cooling and thus not expected to live long. Also has the same god-awful remote as almost every cheap Funai TV & VCR.

The above boxes seem to be the only choice if running out and purchasing a box with a coupon right now is desired (no Fry's where I live, BTW). Also note that these boxes lack the more desirable features allowed in a CECB, such as s-video, Analog Pass-thru, full EPG, etc.


All the rest: A few standouts, but many that seem to be vapor-ware. Many of the manufacturer's websites have "Under construction" [Access HD] or "We'll be shipping REAL SOON" messages [MaxMedia]. Must resort to buying these online from some potentially dodgy sites. Ability to use coupon is questionable. Some/many of the these boxes supposedly won't be available until summer, when the coupons are expired (Which dosen't make a lot of sense, considering the time and money spent to be CECB certified).

One potential standout from this lot: Channel Master CM-7000. Barely made it onto the CECB list. Has s-video. Possibly digital audio hackable, etc. Available from solidsignal.com. Downside is limited availably, and a recently hiked price.


So which CECB will you be buying with your coupons? Is there or will there be a CECB that has "everything" (good performace, good remote, s-video, analog, pass, EPG, etc) that mere mortals can actually get there hands on? Thanks for your input.Hi, is this list updated as of today? If not, then it would be nice if it was updated. I have to buy converter boxes by the 27th (two weeks!).

Also, are you sure Fry's Electronics will take coupons?

Astute observation. The Funai-produced boxes (Magnavox in particular) are seriously lacking ventilation.Do any of these boxes handle well in a near 90 degrees(F) room? I live in Southern CA and it can get hot in my upstair room during the heat waves. :(

Hi, is this list updated as of today? If not, then it would be nice if it was updated. I have to buy converter boxes by the 27th (two weeks!).

Also, are you sure Fry's Electronics will take coupons?

Fry's does not take coupons.

Fry's does not take coupons.Thanks. Too bad they don't. Oh well. :)

Is it me or is Echostar not listed on https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm ?

Is it me or is Echostar not listed on https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm ?



It's you. Actually not

Echostar TR-40 model has become

DISH Network DTVPal

It's you. Actually not

Echostar TR-40 model has become

DISH Network DTVPalOh, I wasn't aware its name was changed. Thanks.

Do any of these boxes handle well in a near 90 degrees(F) room?

They all seem to get warm. The DS and the Magnavox are plastic boxes with not so good ventilation. The Zenith and the Insignia are metal boxes with better ventilation, so in a hot area I would go with those as the better choice. Get a March box date or later and you might not have the audio problem. I dont, or at least I havent run across it yet.

They all seem to get warm. The DS and the Magnavox are plastic boxes with not so good ventilation. The Zenith and the Insignia are metal boxes with better ventilation, so in a hot area I would go with those as the better choice. Get a March box date or later and you might not have the audio problem. I dont, or at least I havent run across it yet.

So far, I am still aiming for Insignia and the Zenith brands (might get one of each for kicks even though they are both are LG) and models from the local retailers. About March box date, where exactly will this be shown? I assume it is a fine print hidden somewhere that I will have to hunt down. Is the audio problem noticeable on internal TV speakers/cheap/low end speakers? I don't have high-end audio setups.

Date is on a sticker on side of box, very visible. I don't notice the audio problem on tv speakers, just my surround sound and mostly just news anchors.

So far, I am still aiming for Insignia and the Zenith brands (might get one of each for kicks even though they are both are LG) and models from the local retailers. About March box date, where exactly will this be shown? I assume it is a fine print hidden somewhere that I will have to hunt down. Is the audio problem noticeable on internal TV speakers/cheap/low end speakers? I don't have high-end audio setups.

Keep in mind that 2 boxes of the same make in the same room will result in an unpleasant remote war.

The manufacture date is under one of the barcodes on the box. You can't miss it.

IMHO, the audio problem is noticeable on everything, and is a deal-killer. YMMV. (Are you frustrated with all this yet?)

Thanks. It's good to know someone still has them for sale.

As I understand it, the Magnavox/Sylvania TB100MG9 has pass-through and is probably identical to the Philco except for the case. There's another Magnavox, the TB100MW9, which is the one available at Wal-Mart and which lacks pass-through. The models with pass-through have been hard to find lately.

Incidentally, the Philco boxes have been dribbling back into online stores lately, and FedEx delivered mine yesterday (a mere 5 weeks after I ordered it). I posted a short review on the Philco thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13861778#post13861778).

Keep in mind that 2 boxes of the same make in the same room will result in an unpleasant remote war.

The manufacture date is under one of the barcodes on the box. You can't miss it.

IMHO, the audio problem is noticeable on everything, and is a deal-killer. YMMV. (Are you frustrated with all this yet?)Totally frustrating and my time is running out. I should had ordered the coupons much later than being in the first. :(

The boxes won't be in the same room. They will be next door room or downstair.

Date is on a sticker on side of box, very visible. I don't notice the audio problem on tv speakers, just my surround sound and mostly just news anchors.Thanks. Yeah, TV speakers for me so I don't think I will notice the problem if I have to get the older dates.

From my local store research:

#1. Zenith DTT900:
Circuit City = $59.99 and in stores as of 5/18/2008 10:18 AM PDT.
Radio Shack = $59.99 in two farther local stores as of 5/18/2008 10:24 AM PDT.
Notes: "Seems to be the most prevalent box. Good performance, good remote, overall good reviews on this forum. Audio issue seems to be the only downside. Along with #2, this unit is probably the best box to buy with your coupon."

#2. Insignia NS-DXA1:
Best Buy = $59.99 and unknown if stocked in stores as of 5/18/2008 10:18 AM PDT.
Notes: Identical clone of the Zenith DTT900 same LG company).


Anything else I missed like other non-online stores before I purchase in a few days? Thank you in advance. :)

I have enjoyed reading the posts here and wanted to contribute.

I have the Insignia Best Buy box and like it. I have tried the Walmart RCA box, which is cheaper but has less features, the audio cuts out occasionally and the program guide is better on the Best Buy. Those are the only two choices here (as the Circuit City box is the same as Best Buy I read).

I had ordered a MaxMedia box based on the good reviews I read. Where did these reviewers get their box? Has anyone actually received one?

After reading other posts, I could not wait any longer for a box that may never show up. AND They used my coupon and charged my credit card and two months later NO box, which is not right. I stopped payment on the credit card and emailed Mensen to get my money back. They eventually credited my card and I may get my coupon back. We’ll see.

Has anyone actually received this box? I am interested to know what others experienced lately from mensen and Convert my tv?

I was thinking about filing a complaint about them, has anyone? Does anyone know what the NTIA is doing about them?

Thanks.

I have enjoyed reading the posts here and wanted to contribute.

I have the Insignia Best Buy box and like it. I have tried the Walmart RCA box, which is cheaper but has less features, the audio cuts out occasionally and the program guide is better on the Best Buy. Those are the only two choices here (as the Circuit City box is the same as Best Buy I read).

I had ordered a MaxMedia box based on the good reviews I read. Where did these reviewers get their box? Has anyone actually received one?

After reading other posts, I could not wait any longer for a box that may never show up. AND They used my coupon and charged my credit card and two months later NO box, which is not right. I stopped payment on the credit card and emailed Mensen to get my money back. They eventually credited my card and I may get my coupon back. We’ll see.

Has anyone actually received this box? I am interested to know what others experienced lately from mensen and Convert my tv?

I was thinking about filing a complaint about them, has anyone? Does anyone know what the NTIA is doing about them?

Thanks.

In case Memsen or CMTV didn't inform you, the original Maxmedia box (MMDTVB03) is supposed to be replaced with an "improved" model (MMDTVB02). The new box is due for June release. So far, there is no sign of it on the NTIA list, and the only available link on the CMTV site is for their customer support. I queried them earlier in the month...they claim that June is still "go". Complaining to the NTIA was a waste of time & keyboarding effort.

More later...

From my readings (way too much time being spent on this), a lot of the talk has been on tv guides and remotes and I really just want to know what's the best box to receive/tune in to and hold channels, is relatively not difficult to use, and with is built well enough to last some (and I don't want to have to drill holes in it or add little feet to disapate the heat or solve other design defects that shouldn't be my job). I'm not looking for high-tech gizmodome, since we're talking $10-20 here (after coupon), so let's get real. Given this, the best boxes out there are the following:

Zenith DTT900 /Insignia NS-DXA1 (same machine) -- april build or sooner (lg tuner), earlier build have the sanyo tuner audio problems . . . if you can wait for the 901 it will have analog pass through, which seems to be worthwhile especially if there are smaller stations in your area

Tivax STB-T9 -- same tuner as the CM-7000, but adds a smart antenna port, and powers back on to same station if you lose power . . . that's important to me, may not be to you . . . . it also has something called a heatsink, which I have no idea what it is, but reviews seem to think it's important.

RCA DTA800B -- same tuner as the CM, make sure you don't get the 800A, that's got a lot of bad reviews, and like the Zenith a B1 version will have analog pass through, so if you can wait that might be worthwhile. I don't think too much of RCA's in general, but this might be an exception . . . most of the negative feedback has been on the remote (too slow).

Channel Master CM-7000 -- seems like a good machine, but priced $10-20 higher and it's main selling point seems to be the s-video . . . frankly, I don't get why s-video is worth the extra expense . . . the reviews I'm seeing don't talk about much, if any, improvement in picture quality.

Digital Stream DTX9900 -- has a lot of fans, a lot of detractors . . . uses the same Sanyo tuner that the Zenith used to have (with the audio problems) . .
these mixed reviews are enough to keep me away.

Artec T3A Pro -- small, basic machine that sells for $40

all the other models out there have too many detractors to be worth the effort.

If I had to get one now, I'd probably go for the Zenith/Insignia or Tivax. But I plan to wait until late June/early July to see if the most hyped Dish Network DTVPal ever actually gets released .. . from the "reviews" it looks like it'll be as good as these others. . . . and if the price remains at $40 it might actually put some pressure on them to drop their prices some.

The major consensus is that LG based boxes are the best box to receive/tune in to and hold channels.
Especially those using a simple now/next EPG

I think you are smart in waiting until late June/July ;)

I would say stick with a Simple EPG LG based box
The Zenith, Insignia, or MicroProse (once approved the MicroProse will also also have analog pass through)

If you are ordering over the Internet there are other "FREE" coupon Converters out now but you have to pay shipping.
Personally I would not rush and buy either box.
The Gridlink GLT-200 is like the Sansonic
The Cadence DTVC-9 is like the CoShip

Zenith DTT900 /Insignia NS-DXA1 (same machine) -- april build or sooner (lg tuner), earlier build have the sanyo tuner audio problems . . . if you can wait for the 901 it will have analog pass through, which seems to be worthwhile especially if there are smaller stations in your area



The problem isn't exclusive to the Sanyo tuner. The third Zenith converter that I swapped at Circuit City had a March manufacture date and an LG tuner. The left channel audio problem was painfully evident in that converter.

I have an April box with the Sanyo tuner.

Not sure about the audio, since I never heard the problem with my earlier Zenith.

We'll I'm back from vacation and being busy at work, didn't get a chance to get back up to speed as to what happened when I was away.

I was just going to let my updates on available CECB's die (being that I was going on vacation and that there is now a greater influx of vendors and boxes), but I couldn't resist updating for the Venturer box (available at Target) and the Grindlink which is now available online (it went up $2.99 when it was previously listed as pre-order).

Also, I believe prior to me going on vacation, some Magnovox boxes were available at Sears and K-Marts.

In short, this is a thread BUMP -- see post #31 on page 1 of this thread.

I talked to a neighbor the other day who is a certified coupon dealer. He has something like 65 of the Philco boxes in stock.
While it may not be the best box, the Philco stands out as the best bargain. If you live in Texas, HEB sells it for $40. You pay only the sales tax with the coupon. Currently only the Plus stores are getting them. They get 4 or 5 every few days and they are gone before the afternoon. Military members may be able to find them at AAFES for under $50 with no sales tax. I am not including online stores in this discussion.
There are several boxes around $50 available from Target and Walmart. Most other boxes retail for around $60.