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Non-CECB for third TV, recommendations/comparisons?

post #1 of 12
5/23/08 at 10:28am
Thread Starter 
If this is the wrong sub-forum, please move it if needed.
I have more than 2 analog TV's, as most people here probably have.
What would be the best non-CECB box for a 3rd TV? (I would then use the "best" box for my 35" direct view CRT TV)
I only have 2 coupons, and have already used them for two Digital Stream DTX9900's

1. Would I be better off purchasing a non-CECB converter for OTA, (with more features/better quality)?

2. Should I just purchase a CECB box at full price?

The reason for my question is because I haven't seen any posts comparing non-CECB analog to digital boxes for Over the Air only.
What are some good boxes for this catagory of user who has already used their 2 coupons?
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post #2 of 12
5/23/08 at 10:40am
If your "Best" TV is not an HDTV -ready (can display HD, but doesn't have a tuner), you might just be best off getting a 3rd CECB , even if you pay full price for it.

If it is an HDTV-Ready TV with component and/or HDMI video inputs, you need to look in the parent forum (HDTV Technical http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=25) . Myself - I have a Samsung DTB-H260F to use with my HDTV. It has both HDMI and component outputs, as well as a digital audio output (for use with my A/V receiver). The Sammy doesn't work so great if you don't have the HDMI/component inputs on the display (it displays menus only on the HD capable outputs), and it does have 1 S-Video / 2 composite video outputs - these work best for recording devices.
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post #3 of 12
5/23/08 at 11:12am
Hi Jon,
Quote:


(I would then use the "best" box for my 35" direct view CRT TV)

You may wish to base your choice on the type of video & audio inputs of your 35" TV. If you have at least component inputs, I agree with Scooper's recommendation for a Samsung DTB-H260F.

If your 35" has s-video input (but no component inputs) and you want digital audio, you may wish to look into an SDTV 480i external tuner. You may find this thread to be of interest: CM-7000 (S-Video) VS Tivax STB-T1 (Component)

If s-video & analog audio are all you need, you may wish to consider a Channel Master CM-7000.
Quote:


Per HDTVexpert:
Score bonus points for CM's S-video connector, which makes a noticeable difference in picture quality, particularly when viewing a down-converted 720p or 1080i HD program.

I hope this helps.
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post #4 of 12
5/23/08 at 1:12pm
I wouldn't even waste the money on something as expensive as the DTB-H260F at this point. Once that TV dies, if you replace it, the new set will have it's own buillt-in ATSC tuner anyway.
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post #5 of 12
5/23/08 at 1:29pm
Thread Starter 
Thanks for the replies and links.
The TV I mentioned above has 1 s-video jack, 2 sets of composite jacks, and 2 RF jacks (Ant A/B).
It's a 400 pound 35" Mitsubishi. NTSC only model. I assume it will last quite a long time after the year 2009.
I'll probably wait awhile to get a 3rd converter box, but am hoping the Channel Master will be available in stores before 2009. (I cannot purchase online).
Meanwhile, the Digital Stream box works fine with this TV.
If I cannot find a Channel Master box, I'll try to find a Zenith, since the radio shack here only carries the Digital Stream box. My 3rd analog TV is a 19", and it can wait for a converter box.
I'm happy with my 2 Digital Stream boxes, but have read that the Zenith has a more sensitive tuner.
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post #6 of 12
5/23/08 at 1:38pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jon_J View Post

I'm happy with my 2 Digital Stream boxes, but have read that the Zenith has a more sensitive tuner.

Better PQ, too. If you're happy with the DS boxes, you should be real happy with the Zenith. The only things that are really better on the DS are the guide and the remote. The Zenith only shows the "Now" and "Next" programs.
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post #7 of 12
5/23/08 at 3:44pm
Even a composite only converter box will get you DVD quality OTA . But getting anything beyond a CECB is probably a waste for you right now. The S-Video may be a good idea if this TV doesn't have a very good comb filter.
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post #8 of 12
5/23/08 at 3:55pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jon_J View Post

I'll probably wait awhile to get a 3rd converter box, but am hoping the Channel Master will be available in stores before 2009. (I cannot purchase online).

The Channel Master is available in-store (Fry's), but you'd have to drive to Downers Grove for it. They always have tons on the shelf because they don't accept coupons. On sale again $59.99 through Tuesday.
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post #9 of 12
5/23/08 at 3:56pm
How good is CM7000 compare to Zenith DTT900? Is it worth the $$ (At least $20 more with shipping included, that's like a second box purchase for Zenith)?
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post #10 of 12
5/23/08 at 4:23pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by gameson View Post

How good is CM7000 compare to Zenith DTT900? Is it worth the $$ (At least $20 more with shipping included, that's like a second box purchase for Zenith)?

start reading, grasshopper...
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post #11 of 12
5/23/08 at 5:36pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jon_J View Post

Thanks for the replies and links.
The TV I mentioned above has 1 s-video jack, 2 sets of composite jacks, and 2 RF jacks (Ant A/B).
It's a 400 pound 35" Mitsubishi. NTSC only model. I assume it will last quite a long time after the year 2009.
I'll probably wait awhile to get a 3rd converter box, but am hoping the Channel Master will be available in stores before 2009. (I cannot purchase online).

You're welcome.

CHANNEL MASTER
Distributor Locator - USA

ILLINOIS

Autco-Besco
1023 West Dorlan
Springfield, IL 62702
Tel (217) 753-0111

Available At Fry's Electronics

Available At Participating Ace & True Value Stores

Laco Electronics
751 Fairfield Road
Mt. Vernon, IL 62864
Tel (618) 242-7944

Laco Electronics
545 N. M.L. King, Jr. Drive
Decatur, IL 62523
Tel (217) 423-0494

O'Rourke Bros. Distributing
1205 4th Avenue
Moline, IL 61265
Tel 800-523-4730

Tri State Electronics
200 West Northwest Hwy.
Mt. Prospect, IL 60056
Tel (847) 255-0600

Warren Elect. Dist. Co.
1813 Locust Street
Sterling, IL 61081
Tel (815) 625-6253

Warren Electronic Dist. Co.
2824 23rd Avenue
Moline, IL 61265
Tel (800) 397-5301

Notes:
  • Not all CM dealers stock the CM-7000.
  • Inquire if they are able to accept the $40 coupons.
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post #12 of 12
5/23/08 at 7:21pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Rammitinski View Post

I wouldn't even waste the money on something as expensive as the DTB-H260F at this point. Once that TV dies, if you replace it, the new set will have it's own buillt-in ATSC tuner anyway.

That's true. But, on the other hand, if you have a HDMI enabled receiver that you use as a hub for all your toys, the Sammy can tie into that, enabling you to have a single HDMI cable to the TV. That way you only have a single cable to run along your articulating flat panel wall mount. That's my plan, provided all the components get along properly.
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