Demystifying HDTV Antennas: How Do These Alternatives To Monthly Cable Bills Work?

We won’t call it misinformation, but there are plenty of blanks out there to fill in regarding HDTV antennas. First and foremost, these devices have come a long way from the so-called “bunny ears” of years past. What they are capable of – besides saving you hundreds of dollars on monthly cable bills – is providing access to quality programing.

The necessity for HDTV antennas is a direct result of a federal mandate in 2009 for television service providers to switch from analog signals to digital transmissions. These one-and-done purchases can easily save you more than $1,000 per year when factoring for a $100 monthly cable bill. Without an HDTV antenna, you’re in the dark. Despite the best efforts of the federal government to provide vouchers to assist with the switch-over and lessen the cost of a converter box, some consumers simply didn’t get on board or have found other reasons to exit the racket.

How much you want to spend on an HDTV antenna is up to you; some run as low as $7 while other versions top out at nearly $80. Regardless of price, industry experts have conducted hands-on testing that reveals varying levels of success despite what the price tags may tell you. For example, tech experts CNET found in a late 2016 study that a middle-of-the-road option for $40 was their top performer.

Once at home and plugged in to your television, consumers can purchase stands, extension cords and amplifiers to custom tune the HDTV antenna’s appearance and performance. It should be noted that signal strength and constant connection can be affected by a few factors, ranging from distance from a broadcast antenna to physical impediments such as tall buildings, hills or large trees.

The payoff for taking the plunge on an HDTV antenna is access to some of your favorite broadcast programs on stations such as ABC, NBC, CBS and local affiliates of classic movie, sports, and Spanish-language channels. Moreover, many of these primary channels have sub-stations that all broadcast content around the clock. It all adds up to a cost-saving experience that will also keep you and your family entertained.

For more information on HDTV antennas, call 1-973-287-5193.

Which Is Best HD Antenna To Fit Your Needs? We Break Down Major Considerations

The 2009 federal mandate that required television broadcasters to switch from analog signals to digital broadcasts wasn’t without conflict for consumers. Although the transition was aided by vouchers – backed by the U.S. government to lessen the financial burden borne by the change – some were still left in the dark while searching for a converter box to purchase. If you’re looking for the best HD antenna, however, we’re here to run through the basics, your options are what they could cost.

The basics: The best HD antennas will provide reception for major broadcast channels, including PBS, NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX,  ION or CW as well as some sports, news, weather, classic movie, Spanish-language and children’s channels. It’s important to differentiate between these offerings and cable programming, which isn’t accessible with devices such as this.

The caveats: In addition to the fact that cable shows simply are not programming that even the best HD antenna can access, signal strength depends on distance from broadcasting antennas. However, those within 25 miles will see results. Further, interference due to things like tall buildings or trees are part of the equation to consider. Still, experts say those looking to cut down on monthly entertainment bills should be pleased with what HD antennas are capable of.

The options: Technology websites have countless rundowns of HD antennas for those looking to cut cords with cable bills. These hands-on tests studied design, indoor aesthetics and the number of channels that were actually watchable. Some more recognizable brands are competing with relative upstarts, with varying results.

The cost: From as low as $7 to nearly $80, consumers have plenty of choices when it comes to the best HD antennas – not to mention add-ons that are marketed as amplified offerings. According to a late 2016 test by the technology company CNET, budget pricing didn’t necessarily translate to poor performance. The opposite was also true for top-tier offerings. Research is king when it comes to picking out the best HD antenna to fit your budget, geography and expectations.

For additional information on the best HD antenna, call  1-973-287-5193.