Switching to Digital - What you need to know before you buy.

Cable and Satellite providers are trying to sell their expensive plans with contracts. Here is what you need to know when they switch from analog to digital on February 17th 2009.

You can buy a UHF/VHF antenna with a converter box for all under $50. You can buy this converter box Lasonic LTA-260 ATSC Digital to Analog TV Converter Box for $9.99 with the $40 coupon below and this antenna RCA ANT1500 Superior Flat Antenna (White) for $36.49. This antenna has slightly better specs than the terk for $49.99. If you are far away from where they broadcast you may want to invest in an outdoor antenna. The Winegard antennas are very good. Heck they make satellite dishes so they know what they are doing. If you go with the outdoor antenna this antenna from winegard Winegard SS-2000 Squareshooter UHF-Only Amplified Antenna had great reviews and ratings. This will bring in a signal from up to 40 miles away but its only UHF.

I strongly suggest going the outdoor route so you can buy 1 antenna and filter to all tv's in your house. Plus they will have a better range.
Remember for each TV you will need a digital converter box however you only need 1 outdoor antenna to feed every box.

If you already have an HDTV then all you need is the UHF/VHF antenna.

Below are the details on how to get the $40 coupon for the receiver.

Save $40 on This TV Converter Box
On February 17, 2009, U.S. broadcast television is switching from analog to digital signals. Analog televisions using an antenna will require a converter box to receive broadcast TV after that date. Every U.S. household can get up to two coupons--each with a code good for $40 off the cost of eligible converter boxes. If you have a code, redeem it via our online form here. You must enter your coupon code via the online form. You can not enter your coupon code as a promotional code during checkout. If you need a code, you can apply for one at http://www.dtv2009.gov/ApplyCoupon.aspx (this link will take you to an external website).