Sunday Nov 22

Still searching for the right DTV converter box...

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In "Finding a Converter Box Before the Big Switch," we look at what local retailers are doing to assist or frustrate New Yorkers trying to make the digital television transition. No one is carrying a $40 box, which means you have to pay $15-25 on top of the government-issued $40 coupon.

RadioShack, which offers the Digital Stream DSP7500T for $54.99, has been requiring customers to provide their contact information when redeeming the coupon, then using that information for marketing. P.C. Richards carries the full-featured Zenith DTT901 for $64.99, but is out of stock. Rite Aid is carrying a decent model, the AccessHD DTA1010D for $60.

If you're reading this, though, then you can go to FreeDTVShop or FreeTVSignal and get a decent DTV converter box for free with a government coupon. If you don't yet have a coupon, you can apply for one online.

If price is not as important as specific features, you should read through the reviews at Consumer Reports and this review blog. The bottom line is that price is not necessarily an indicator of quality, so shop wisely.