That said, here are the models that stand out. We also like boxes with a universal remote that can control your TV as well as the box button controls on the box you can use if you misplace the remote and an easy way to add individual digital channels that weren't detected when you scanned for all channels. The ability to change the appearance of closed captions to make them more or less visible is another handy feature. For example, the electronic program guides on some have only minimal information while others give you fuller descriptions for more channels and cover a longer period of time. Some add optional features that increase convenience. While you can't go too far wrong with any of the models we tested, there are several we would consider first, based on a combination of picture quality, features, and pricing. You can check reception in your area at, a site co-sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association and the National Association of Broadcasters.) (Note that your location and other variables will determine how many channels you can get with any of these boxes. When supplied with a strong signal, all produced acceptable picture quality-although some were better than others-plus good sound, and they were capable of detecting a similar number of digital channels. They can receive both high-definition and standard-definition digital broadcasts but will down-convert programs transmitted in HD (such as prime-time network fare) to a resolution a standard-def TV can display. Coupled with our expert advice-as found in our " Digital TV Transition" section-along with the questions and comments here on our Electronics Blog and DTV discussion forums, we hope to assist consumers through the analog-to-digital switchover.īut for those who face a looming DTV coupon expiration date or are looking for a Father's Day gift, here are some DTV converter box recommendations and guidelines that should help right now.Įvery one of these set-top DTV boxes converted broadcast digital signals pulled in by our rooftop antenna (a standard residential model) into analog signals an older TV can accept. We're working hard to gather all the data from our hands-on reviews and present the information in a comprehensive report on soon. We tested 14 of the first digital converter boxes on the market, and the preliminary results are in: The models we tested-all of which are approved for use with the government's $40 coupon and thus have a basic set of features in common-didn't differ significantly in performance.Īnd, pricier models aren't necessarily better than those that cost less.
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