![]() ![]() A basic set of shielded RCA and S-Video cables were used to eliminate any issues from the cheap cables included with the tuners. The smart antenna idea is very intriguing and we wanted to know how much of a difference it could really make. ![]() There were only a handful of smart antennas available online and this is the only one to be found at any local store. A smart antenna, as defined by the Consumer Electronics Association ( CEA-909), is basically an antenna that can be controlled via the tuner to allow automatic tuning for the best possible signal. Second, we found a smart antenna at Best Buy, the Apex SM550, which works as a standalone amplified antenna or as a smart antenna. First, we chose a basic, low-cost unit from Radio Shack that should be similar to basic rabbit ears that anyone is likely to already own. We used two antennas to round out our signal comparison. Please note that screen shots of menus, guides and info pages were also taken from the LCD monitor due to glare and moiré issues with the camera. The Dell doesn't have a great scaler, but worked nicely to expose any flaws in the picture that might have been hidden by our standard interlaced CRT. A 20" flat-panel Dell computer monitor with composite and S-video was also used. It isn't a particularly fantastic display, nor is it the worst available, but it did provide for a reliable visual comparison. This RCA brand TV has coax, composite, and S-Video inputs. ![]() ![]() In an effort to stay true to the purpose of the low cost digital tuners which are government coupon compatible, the majority of the testing was done with a 7 year old, 20" CRT television. And with a proliferation of boxes on the internet, which ones work with those $40 government coupons… If so, how well do they work? Features? Quality? Ease of use? Audioholics compares five popular boxes to help you make the best choice! Looking for a digital TV converter box can be a daunting task as every store seems to have their own brands. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |