Digital converter box - I'm confused.?

You may want to look in the manual for the TV. I'm no expert, but as far as I know, and according to wikipedia, an 'HD Tuner' is the same as a digital tuner. In addition, you may want to note that the US mandate requires:

* By July 1, 2005 all televisions with screen sizes over 36" must include a built-in ATSC DTV tuner

* By March 1, 2006 all televisions with screen sizes over 25" must include a built-in ATSC DTV tuner

* By March 1, 2007 all televisions regardless of screen size, and all interface devices which include a tuner (VCR, DVD player/recorder, DVR) must include a built-in ATSC DTV tuner.

So if your TV features an HD tuner or a DTV tuner in the manual, you're good to go. I suggest you get the government coupon for the DTV tuner anyway just in case. Worst case, you'll spend around $60 for a cheap DTV tuner, but with the coupon it's about $20.

yes you will need a box after Feb of 2009

go to this website and request

https://www.dtv2009.gov/Default.aspx

2 free $40 coupons that you can use to purchase the boxes

they sell for $50 and $60 radio shack & walmart

so they will cost you $10 or 20 after you get your free coupons

What is the digital television transition?

At midnight on February 17, 2009, all full-power television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting in analog and switch to 100% digital broadcasting. Digital broadcasting promises to provide a clearer picture and more programming options and will free up airwaves for use by emergency responders.

if you get your signal from an antenna then you need a coverter box.