antenna vs digital and hdtv

[MrBeel]

I have been and audiofile for many years. Video on the other had is getting perplexing for me. Years ago I spend several thousand dollars on a tower and a high quality antenna. Two years ago, I decided to go with expressvu and a digital satellite. I have been disappointed with the picture quality ever since. Since then I have seen others with satellite HDTV and still my antenna signal (on close channels obviously) is still superior. Cable HDTV looks worse yet. Being involved in audio for so many years, I don't suspect my cables as I always install the best. Any thoughts?

 

[Buckeyefan 1]

I have been and audiofile for many years. Video on the other had is getting perplexing for me. Years ago I spend several thousand dollars on a tower and a high quality antenna. Two years ago, I decided to go with expressvu and a digital satellite. I have been disappointed with the picture quality ever since. Since then I have seen others with satellite HDTV and still my antenna signal (on close channels obviously) is still superior. Cable HDTV looks worse yet. Being involved in audio for so many years, I don't suspect my cables as I always install the best. Any thoughts?

A cable signal depends on how many subscribers are in your area/neighborhood. Our digital cable (standard def) is average, but the 6 HD channels we get are perfect. I cannot comment on satellite HDTV, as I've never been able to afford it (with 6 tv's in the house - all cable ready) and running high speed internet.

With a mast antenna, and a HD receiver, not only are you getting a great signal, but there's no charge. Until all channels go HD, we'll have to suffer with the limited number of offerings.

I don't think you are doing anything wrong, and your cables are fine. We have two cable providers in the area, and one always has a better picture than the other. (we constantly switch as they're always competing for each others business) Satellite feeds are somewhat better than cable, but since you need a separate receiver for each room, it's not for everyone. To me it's a big waiting game, until all channels go HD. At that point, I think I'll shoot myself since I'll need 6 HD receivers.

 

[westcott]

I have noticed a continual signal degredation here in the Houston area for over a year now.

It is not any particular SD station at any particular time but almost all stations seem to suffer from it at some time or another except the HD stations.

I believe it is due to limited satellite bandwidth and Directv trying to ring out every possible station.

I find this very aggravating and a real disappointment for a company that once used to provide a truly amazing picture on every station over cable.

I agree, my local station OTA look consistently better than SD via satellite.

I am hoping that with the added satellites this year that should come on line soon, will eliminate this signal degredation issue.

I doubt the average "Joe Apex buyer" would notice and that is why they get away with it for so long without a flood of complaints. A trained eye has no problem seeing the macroblocking and other signal artifacts.

 

[Francious70]

The cable feed in my are is exceptional considering our only cable provider is the largest in the country (Comcast). But I still use the antenna as I can't afford cable (college student). I have a HDTV reciever and I'd have to say that I signal quality is the same as I got when I had cable, just less channels, and it's free.