I just bought a 42" LCD 1080p and want to get HD t.v. through comcast. They have a couple different packages. One I can get HD through a coaxial connection and the other I get a DVR and can get an HDMI connection. Is there a big difference in picture quality between the coaxial and HDMI connection? The guy from comcast said there wasnt, but I wasnt sure what everyones thoughts were! Thanks!

If you connect a comcast coaxial cable directly to your set, it would require your set to have an integrated QAM tuner in order to receive HD or digital channels. In addition, a cablecard would be required to subscribe to the subscription HD channels. Does your set have a QAM tuner and cablecard? If it does not, then you will need a comcast stb connected through HDMI/DVI or Component video for comcast HD. There will likely not be much difference in quality between the stb and QAM tuner. I don't think you would get comcast's channel guide, which I surf quite often, without the stb.

BTW, if your set has a ATSC tuner then you can connect an antenna to your set and receive any DT(HD) local networks in your area. This would depend on your distance from the transmitting towers and size of your antenna.

raouliii, I think that he's referring to audio connections, where HDMI can be used to relay 5.1 audio to home theater systems. Even with HDMI, most 5.1 receivers can't decode the 5.1 from HDMI connections, so the optical connection would be required, anyway.

The Comcast tech was probably very confused and was providing misinformation.

So, kmk42019, you should get the DVR if you're in the mood of pausing live TV or recording stuff in HD, and want to pay a little more a month. Audio connections shouldn't have anything to do with this decision.

raouliii, I think that he's referring to audio connections, ......Naw, I think I understood the OP's first post just fine. ;):p