Using Analog TV’s In A Digital World – The Frugal Approach!

Most are aware by now that in less than a year analog TV’s will experience a permanent blackout following the federal mandate on full-power broadcast television signals to switch to digital completely. The obvious choice is to upgrade to one from the vast array of Digital TV’s available. The downside is that it can set one back upwards of $500 should the choice be for a size of 32” or higher. Cable TV subscribers get some more of a breathing space but that too is only until cable providers completely transition to digital signals as well.

For folks who rely solely on full-power broadcast television stations, there is a frugal alternative to continue receiving broadcast television for free. The solution is a set-top digital-to-analog converter box that retails upwards of $40. The kicker being the government program aimed at helping consumers with the analog-to-digital transition – the $40 digital-to-analog converter box coupon program. This box will convert the digital signal into an analog signal to allow viewing the program in an analog TV. The government discount makes this choice a no-brainer as the box comes almost for free. Needless to say, it would be a stopgap as the picture from a digital broadcast on a digital TV is superior to the converted analog signal. Then again, this gives the consumer the power to upgrade when they feel it best.