High Def Tuners FAQ’s
If you have an HDTV, you’ve probably heard about HDTV tuners. You might be considering buying one, too. Before you do, though, make sure you clear up any doubts and confusion first, by reading these answers to the most frequently asked questions about them.
What are HDTV Tuners?
An HDTV tuner, also sometimes called an HDTV receiver or HDTV decoder, is an accessory which helps display HD content on your HDTV. The HDTV tuner receives the High Definition signal from sources such as cable or satellite TV providers, Blu-Ray players and HDTV-capable video game consoles, then processes it so that it appears properly on the screen of your HDTV. Without an HDTV tuner, the signals will appear as regular TV signals, preventing you from enjoying the full and genuine High Definition viewing experience.
How is an HDTV tuner different from an HDTV tuner card?
While High Definition TV tuners and HDTV tuner cards have the same function – to receive and transmit HD signals, the term HDTV tuner usually refers to an external or stand-alone HDTV tuner, more commonly known as a Set-Top-Box or STB. These are separate devices which you can connect to your HDTV. On the other hand, HDTV tuner cards usually refer to HDTV PC tuners, which, as implied, are connected to a computer via the USB or PCI port. This computer can then be connected to the HDTV via the HDMI port, DVI-D port or RGB port. Both the HDTV tuner and the HDTV tuner card have its own share of pros and cons. The HDTV tuner is easier to install, but does not always come with a recording function like the HDTV tuner card.
What is the difference between an HDTV tuner and an HDTV converter?
An HDTV tuner is a device connected to an HDTV. It receives HD signals and allows them to be displayed properly on the HDTV. On the other hand, an HDTV converter converts digital signals into analog ones so that your regular TV can still process them and display them on the screen, though not with the same superior picture quality.
Do I need an HDTV tuner?
An HDTV tuner is necessary to display signals with the superior picture quality that you expect so it is recommended for you to get one. However, some HDTVs already come with a built-in HDTV tuner. If you own one of these, then there is no need to buy any other kind of HDTV tuner.
What is the cost of an HDTV tuner?
The cost of an HDTV tuner depends on its features and its brand. Popular brands include Sony, Samsung and Panasonic. Prices range from $80 to over $400.
How do I get my HDTV tuner to work?
The most important thing you need to make your HDTV tuner work is to connect it properly. Remember, your HDTV tuner acts as a receiver for HD signals so it should be connected to the source of your HD content, like your antenna, your cable or satellite TV box or your Blu-Ray player. It needs to be able to transmit those signals to your HDTV, too, so make sure there is also a cable running from it to one of the ports at the back or side of your HDTV. Always refer to the manual when you’re installing it so you don’t get confused.
What HDTV tuner should I buy?
Just as there is no single best HDTV, there is also no particular HDTV tuner that is the best for everyone. You can only find the right one for you and your HDTV. To do this, simply compare the features of various HDTV tuners, as well as their compatibility with the HDTV you own. It is recommended to buy an HDTV tuner with the same brand as your HDTV, although you can always get other, more affordable ones as long as they are compatible. Some cable and satellite TV providers have their own HDTV tuners so you can get these. Buying a Blu-Ray player with a built-in HDTV tuner is an option, too, although this can be very expensive.
Edward McKellen is an HDTV expert who writes LCD TV Reviews for HDTVreviewlab.com. To check out the latest Pioneer HDTV reviews or learn more about HDTV please visit HDTVreviewlab.com
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