Going from Cable to TV Antenna. Need Help!

[KatieNK]

Hi everyone!

I am considering getting a TV antenna, but the concept is new to me so I need help!

Right now we have very basic cable because all we want are the major networks, I don't care about all the cable channels. I think I can get all the network channels through an antenna. If you have an antenna, how many channels do you get?

I have been looking at antennas at Walmart.com and saw some small flat ones that can be mounted indoors or out, and I like that. I don't want a big tower and probably don't need one as I am not out in the sticks.

Does anyone have a recommendation for an antenna?

Also, I have seen all the ads on tv about stations going digital and how you need a digital converter box. If I buy a digital antenna, will I still need one? I think I read a review where someone had a digital antenna but still hooked up the converter box and it boosted their signal. Could that be true?

I have read where people got the digital antennas and then they got like 30 channels, but surely that must be just several ABC stations, several NBC stations, etc etc. Right? Sorry if that is a dumb question but I just have no idea how antenna tv works!

We have 2 tvs in the house, Will I need 2 antennas? (one for each)?

Will the stations going digital cause the signal strength to be better? DH is really worried about not getting any channels. But I am willing to at least try it and if it works then we can cancell the cable!


Any advice or info you have would be great!
Thank you!

[MaskedMarvel]

I don't think this forum is the best place to ask for that kind of advice. You have a good idea to cut your cable. It's an extra expense you're getting rid off. I did the same thing but I don't watch TV so I didn't buy an antana. You could probably go to the store and ask those questions.

[leggzz66]

Unless your buying the converter box and if your in an area where theres multiple changes, i wouldnt reccommend that. I live in the Bootheel of Mo. I live on the border of four states. I live in an area, that using an antennah, i got 3 pbs' clear at one time, and all the other non cable stations. Some were blurry, so why bother at that point. but going to anntenna now, they are going all digital, so you will now need a converter box. im sure its not cheap, since they offered 40 dollar coupons. so im sure thats only a fragment of what that costs. a router too, if you want a movable antenna, without having to go out and move it yourself. I dont see commercials for the 40 off coupons now either, so figure 300 dollar investment minimum for good stuff. If you get a spliter also, you can run it also though to your stereos. Theres plus' and minus', if you save that there, you will surely find something else to blow it on. I blow my cut amount from my old bill on movies. Rather then renting them at almost 5 dollars for 5 days. I buy it for ten and keep it forever.

[Broken Arrow]

Helpful primer. They also have antenna reviews, general recommendations, and you can even find out what towers are near you and where to point your directional.