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Which TV tuner will replace my TV?

HDTV - why need a HD set-top box if i have a HD ready TV (tuner)?

  • hey guys! I have a HD TV that is HD ready (has tuner) and I noticed I already get some network stations (cable TV) that are HD (new HD channels). But to get more HD channels of other stations I need to order them but I heard I get a different set-top box (an HD one) which will replace my current one. I have digital cable and what not. I just want to know why I need a special set-top box I already have the tuner built in? or don't i? Thanks!

  • Answer:

    (This answer assumes you are in the USA) There are two different types of HD tuners: ATSC - used for free OTA signals QAM - used in many cable systems If you are getting HD programing through your cable service without going through a cable box, you can be (almost) sure that your TV has a QAM tuner built in to it. For cable content that the cable company expects more money for (premium content) they typically encrypt (scramble) the signal. To receive these encrypted channels you need either a HD cable box or a cable card. A cable card fits in a slot built into some TVs. You have to rent the card from your cable company. They get their money one way or another.

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The cable company wants your money. They want you to buy or rent a new HD box then you can receive the HD stations that are not free so they can make more money. The same situation happened to me but with the standard digital cable box. The cable company changed my cable package and added new channels. I simply couldn't add these channels with the box I already owned. They told me I needed to purchase or rent a new box so I could receive these new channels. I switched companies right away.

christine905ca

You only need the HD box if you want cable channels like TNT in HD if not don't bother.

Scatwoman

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