[JSKamm]

My old Tosh went out a few days ago and am going to replace it today. I am looking at the Mits and Hitachi models. I use DirecTV and am wondering if I should buy a model with integrated tuner? From what I understand I will not be using it with Sat input. I do not care about PiP as I have never used it in the past. Also I am considering buying from GoodGuys, I have read great customer service reviews from CC, but GG is offering store credit $$ for purchases. Has anyone had any experience with GG customer service?

 

[mallu2u]

My take is to buy one with it. I just bought a Sony XBR with tuner built in and cannot be happier. Buying the tuner separately would also need you to spend 500-900 to get a good tuner with DVR functionality along with paying a monthly fee to the provider. In my case, I only had to buy an indoor antenna and thats it! Free HTDV. You should'nt have to pay for it when its broadcast free. With time, I shall install a better tuner on the roof and get more channels. My indoor allows me to pick basic channels only. My .02.

 

[JSKamm]

Thanks for the response! I didn't think about the locals being free OTA, I will find out if that works in my area.

 

[mallu2u]

go to antennaweb.org for that.

 

[realdeal317]

If you are leasing the equipment:


When the digital tuner goes out, and it will, would you rather have to buy a new one yourself or call your provider and have them take care of it?


Just something to think about.

 

[pberbec]

If you decide to get the integrated unit, you're right: You will not be able to use it for your sat. This means you will spend $300 or so more for the integrated set, and then still need to buy a HD reciever from DirecTV. It depends on where you live. Tell us where you are, and maybe some other forum members can tell you about there OTA reception there.


Just an idea.


Peter

 

[mallu2u]

Quote:

Originally posted by realdeal317 If you are leasing the equipment: When the digital tuner goes out, and it will, would you rather have to buy a new one yourself or call your provider and have them take care of it? Just something to think about.

If it goes out, your warranty should kick in.

 

[david(dallas)]

I say not, because the receiver is the part that seems to change year to year. If the cost are the same, do component. Then you can upgrade receivers and keep old TV!!!


That is my 2 cents...

 

[lark]

I think it partially depends on your tivo (or other dvr) practices.


If you time shift, or watch a decent amount of non-live tv, then I think an integrated tuner is a pretty cool thing. It gives you a little more flexibility, in that it allows you to watch live OTA while you're recording something else. If you have a dual tuner high def dvr, then this isn't that necessary (although some day you might want to watch live OTA HD and record two other things!)


In short, even with a HD set top box, there are still some occasions in which having the built in tuner may be helpful.

 

[mgamon]

I think other considerations will dominate the buying decision. For example, if you conclude that the Sony XBR950 RPTV's are what you crave, then you get an integrated tuner whether you want it or not. You cannot buy an equivalent TV without the tuner. I think most of us have satellite or cable, and that OTA HDTV is just a nice extra. So, most of us don't need the tuner, but will take it if the TV we otherwise desire has it. Just my $0.02.


Max