HD over cable questions (1 Viewer)

[Jesse H]

I have finally taken the plunge (again), and after parting with my Sony Wega 36" XBR450 about 1.5 years ago, have a Panasonic PT53WX42 on its way to me

The set does not have a built in HD decoder, and I am wondering if I get digital cable (only 2 channels in HD currently) if they will supply me with a STB that will decode HD, or will I still need to have something on my own feeding through their STB ? Only option at the moment, is Comcast in Seattle, WA (which I probably wont do, only HBO and Showtime in HD as of now).

I really want to get local channels in HD, particularly for the NBA playoffs and sports. I live on the top of an 18 story building, but dont have a balcony, so very limited access as to putting an antenna somewhere (although I do face South which is what I've been told I need). My concern with that is I got very poor reception with a decent standard TV antenna before I got cable, so dont know if I'll have better luck with an HD antenna.

Anyone in downtown Seattle know ? Any input about the HD cable situation appreciated as well.

Thanks!

 

[SeanA]

Jesse,

If you get an STB, you may want to consider one that can handle OTA reception. I live about 10 miles outside Milwaukee and I am pulling in all but one of the local HD stations using an indoor antenna and an OTA digital receiver. I am very happy with the results, and I am going to save about $50/month by not getting digital cable... don't need some 100 channels that I won't watch anyway.

I would think you would have pretty good luck as long as there are not other taller buildings surrounding yours. The key is to select the right antenna. There are two websites that I know of that should help you with your decision:

AntennaWeb - http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.asp

TitanTV -http://www.titantv.com/ttv/home/home.aspx

Good Luck

 

[JohnDPug]

You need to check with your local cable provider to know what HD content they are providing. Content varies between cable providers. The cable provider will rent you a cable box (usually without an additional fee if you have digital cable service) which will act as a STB for their HD content. Check the Scientific Atlanta web site for their 4200HD if you want to see what a typical HD capable digital cable box can do.