What kind of converter do I need?

[Kim]

OK, as I said before, I am not really a big fan about this digital switchover thing. I am not really a big television watcher or anything. I just like to catch some of my favorite shows on the local channels now and again. Anyway, I have an old Panasonic TV. I don't think it is digital. What kind of converter do I need to get? I dont really care about getting all kinds of great channels or anything.

[Bill]

I think you can get some sort of coupon from the government to help you get a converter. I am not sure how much it costs or what it will do for you, but it sounds like you don't need to spend a whole lot of money since you don't really care about getting a bunch of channels. I am not sure, though. I am still trying to figure all of this digital stuff out too!

[draiken78]

I'm pretty new to the converter thing also. From my understanding, pretty much any converter will work. I know that the government is offering $40 off coupons for these converters, so you should be able to get one that's pretty affordable.

[Shannon]

The government is offering a coupon to help offset the cost of the converter, but you need to be aware that the converters covered by these coupons actually downgrade the resolution. Still, it will allow you to continue using your current televison. So, if you don't care about receiving the improved resolution, the coupon may be a good choice for you. Also, keep in mind that the coupon still won't cover all of the expenses of purchasing the converter. So, you should take that into consideration when making your decision.

[tvluvr]

If I buy a converter, what can I reasonably expect to pay for a good one, provided I didn't decide to take the government up on its offer?

[hdtvlabs]

I think converters are in $50-$80 range ...

[dynamic]

That's not too bad. I would have expected more,

[tvluvr]

I don't know. Have to buy this, have to buy that. May as well just throw in the towel and get a new set altogether.

[Derek]

I don't know. Have to buy this, have to buy that. May as well just throw in the towel and get a new set altogether.

Certainly, buying a new set altogether is definately an option. Keep in mind though that there are questions you should ask yourself first.

1. Do you subscribe to cable or satellite service?
If so, this transition will not affect you at all! Your cable or satellite box to make a long story short will make everything work the same for you as it already does. If it doesn't, they will simply replace your box for one that does make everything work.

2. Do you use an antenna to watch TV?
If this applie to you then YES, you DO need to consider getting a converter or upgrading to a TV with a built in digital tuner.

Once you've asked yourself those questions and come up with an answer, then you will be ready to decide what further actions you want to take.

[dynamic]

I get mine over air. Don't care much for comcast and it's monopoly. Haven't had satellite since the Primestar days. Now that was a system I thoroughly enjoyed when I lived in West Virginia. When I moved back to Maryland, didn't have anymore need for it. I rarely watch TV, and if I do, it's generally for the news, but I do like to watch cops and AMW LOL