[Machonmaigle]

I have a Toshiba 42HDX82, it's HDTV ready. I have read all the websites about HDTV but for whatever reason it isnt sinking in.


I have standard cable right now, no plans to change that. Can I get HDTV signals over an HDTV compatible antenna? Or do I need the antenna and a decoder as well?


I am basically looking for the easiest way to get OTA signals for an HDTV ready set. Can anyone point me in the right direction or just tell me what I need to do Thanks!

 

[JohnFR]

Well, where do live?

 

[JFerg]

With that set, you will need a HDTV Tuner (Set Top Box).

 

[Machonmaigle]

Sorry, I live near Charlotte, NC


And dumb question to add on, if I buy a STB, do most include in-box antenna? Or do I need to buy one of those as well?

 

[DoyleS]

Basically you need an HDTV receiver and antenna or if your cable company offers HD you could just subscribe to their HD package and they will supply the decoder. If you want to receive OTA signals you will need a separate HD receiver or if you have something like an HTPC, you can put an HD card like MYHD or one of the others into the PC and use that to drive your set. The simplest route would be for you to go with the package your cable company offers. If you want to go one of the other routes you will need to jump in and read some of the threads that are in this section to get a feel for HD and what is involved.


..Doyle

 

[NogodZ]

You may need to upgrade your cable service as well, where I live, you need to get Comcast's Digital cable to get HDTV, and that's quite a bit more per month. And, they only offer a few channels. Not worth it for me. I can get all the networks OTA (over the air), for free.

Free meaning, the signals are free. Check what your cable offers, and what it will cost you up front, and monthly. Then check what signals you can get OTA.

OTA you'll need an antenna, which is basically a UHF antenna. These are fairly cheap, and work very well. Depending on how far you are from the transmission source, and if all the stations are in the same area, you may need to add amplifiers to boost the signal, or maybe a rotator to get all the stations well.

Then, as has been said, you need something to decode that signal, either a STB, or PC card. These run a couple/few hundred bucks, plus or minus.

Then, you can usually plug your cable and antenna into the STB or PC card, and receive all the signals, switching back and forth as needed.


S

 

[Machonmaigle]

Thanks thats what I needed to know....guess its time to start looking for a STB then.