What kind of converter box do I need?

Unregistered · 06-21-2012, 08:59 AM

I have an older TV that I've been using for 10 years and I just want to be able to watch regular TV on it. It's a Magnavox. What kind of converter box will make it work with the new TV signals?

**dkreichen1968** · 06-21-2012, 09:48 AM

Originally Posted by Unregistered

I have an older TV that I've been using for 10 years and I just want to be able to watch regular TV on it. It's a Magnavox. What kind of converter box will make it work with the new TV signals?

Here are some options:

Digital Stream Factory Recertified Converter Box : TV & Video | RadioShack.com

Sunkey Digital Converter Box - Walmart.com

RCA DTA800B1 Digital TV Converter Box, Analog Pass-Through DTV Converter Box, Compact Converter Box, RCA Converter Box

Magnavox TB110MW9 Digital to Analog Converter, ATSC Tuner Converter, Digital to Analog TV Converter

I've personally used all but the Sunkey, and of the ones I've tried, I like the Digital Stream Box from Radio Shack the best. The RCA has a great signal meter on it which is great for pointing antennas but it's electronic program guide is lacking. The Magnavox's signal meter is worthless, but has a decent picture and an excellent electronic programming guide. The Digital Stream has excellent picture, a good signal strength meter, and an excellent electronic program guide.

**Jim1348** · 06-21-2012, 10:09 AM

http://www.amazon.com/Zenith-DTT901-.../dp/B001BNT3FS

I have had a couple of the DISH Network DTV Pals and several of the Zenith DTT901s. I think the Zenith is better built, but it is a bit expensive!

**Fringe Reception** · 06-21-2012, 10:22 AM

Originally Posted by Jim1348

I have had a couple of the DISH Network DTV Pals and several of the Zenith DTT901s. I think the Zenith is better built, but it is a bit expensive!

My DTV Pal overheated and I had to drill holes in its case to try to keep it cool.

Jim

**dkreichen1968** · 06-21-2012, 12:14 PM

Originally Posted by Jim1348

Amazon.com: Zenith DTT901 Digital TV Tuner Converter Box: Electronics

I have had a couple of the DISH Network DTV Pals and several of the Zenith DTT901s. I think the Zenith is better built, but it is a bit expensive!

The Zeniths were the best of the lot, but they quit making them after the transition. Still, there is no way that they are worth $180. The Channel Master CM-7000 was another good box which they stopped making as soon as the transition was over. Based on sales at my local Walmart, I think RCA is laughing all the way to the bank.

**Fringe Reception** · 06-21-2012, 12:49 PM

Yes, the Channel Master CM-7000 is an excellent converter box. I like them because the are an excellent tuner, they have a steel rather than a plastic enclosure and they are built in Bulgaria rather than China. To be fair, they have a poor TVGOS compared to most other boxes. I have a friend in North Seattle who currently has two of them, new in the box for sale @ $54.00 each on Craigslist. So, if you're in the region and want a good converter box ...

Jim