Choose an HDTV provider

Just as with regular television, you have three basic sources for HDTV programming: antenna, cable, or satellite. Chances are you already have one; we'll tell you how get it in HDTV.

Why you should choose an HDTV provider

What the editors say

1

Antenna: it's free.

Your local over-the-air broadcasters are spending big bucks to upgrade their systems to send digital TV over-the-air, but it won't cost you a dime. You can probably receive local digital and HDTV broadcasts right now, for free, if you have the right equipment.

2

Cable: it's easy.

About 80 percent of TV viewers subscribe to cable, and a quick call to your installer is usually enough to get your HDTV hooked up with cable high-def programming, including high-def locals. For the ultimate in convenience, ask about a high-def DVR.

3

Satellite: it's sophisticated.

Hate cable companies? Out of range of broadcast towers or the cable system? Satellite offers the most-sophisticated HDTV hardware and often includes high-def options that cable companies lack. Local HDTV still requires an antenna, though.

What you say

1

"WHY DIRECTV HD FOR SONYKDF-E50A10 HD..."

by leonbren (see profile)
July 4, 2006

I RECENTLY PURCHASE A SONY KDF-E50A10, GREAT SO FAR.I HAVE DIRECTV DVR AND I ENJOY THE PICTURE, BUT DO I REALLY NEED A...

(read more)

2

"HDTV is rapidly advancing and now is a..."

by SeanR (see profile)
January 24, 2006

I feel that there is a lot of competition between cable and sat companies. Both are upgrading their systems and...

(read more)

3

"HDTV off air is the best option for..."

by kvzichi (see profile)
August 13, 2005

These things always have plusses and minuses, however, on balance, if you want High Def TV, without breaking the bank,...

(read more)

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