I read all of this hype about going from analog to digital in 2009?

All over the air broadcasting in Analog (regular TV) will end in Feb. 2009. This is the TV you receive with an antenna (Rabbit ears).

If you have cable TV or satellite you will see NO change.

The U.S. government is providing a coupon to purchase a digital to analog converter so regular TV can continue to be used.

The big change only involves TV programing that you get for free with an antenna. After Feb 2009 almost all of the old analog broadcasts will be shut down.

But you don't need a new TV to watch the new digital broadcasts that are replacing them. All you need is a converter box that will go between your TV antenna and your old TV. The converter will cost about $10 after using a government $40 off coupon.

I don't recommend waiting till the last minute to get a converter for the following reasons:

There are only 33 million coupons and about 5 million have already been requested.

Most areas already have digital broadcasts and most people get better picture quality with the digital signals.

If your analog reception isn't so good, you might need a better antenna. It's best to have time to research what antenna is best for your particular area rather than depending on the kind of marketing hype you typically get at stores.

Cable and satellite services will still supply the old analog type TV signals.

if you have satalite or cable service there will be no change in service

if you're using antenna, ie rabbit ears etc...then you will need a digital converter box, a cost of about $40 or $50 but the gov is offering a coupon or reembursment for it.

what type of television service are you using?

Adding to the info you have recieved, I highly recommend going to Best Buy and asking about free waiver or something like that. I work there and I remember that they were talking about for $5 dollars you can get a converter box now for the transfer in 2009.

Head there!

I get the feeling it's a little deeper than just better video and sound, or a kick to the economy. I'm thinking of the sort of thing people have been talking about for years finally coming together, and a whole nation under the same frequency would make it all easier.

you have to buy an LCD or Plasma screen then if you want to watch tv you must make a contract with your cable company to buy an hd tuner this will run you 50-100 dollars a month sorry the tv is 500 for 26 inch and 1000 for 30 inch

If you don't have cable or satellite and use the antenna to get programs, then you will need a converter. If you have cable or satellite, then you are fine. People who use 'rabbit ears' (TV antenna) are the ones that need to switch.

Just get digital cable, you'll be fine. Call the cable company and they'll tell you everything you need to know! Good Luck

http://www.dtv.gov/

That will answer all your questions about the transition. It is the official government website on the matter.

Its no myth

get with the times

reg tv and radio are all destined to be gone

terrestrial radio, is about to collapse... and if XM and Sirius merge it will very soon!

so get with the times