DTV converters: Results of our tests of 14 models

Digital converter boxes that allow older analog TVs to receive digital signals—soon to be the only type of over-the-air TV signal, after analog broadcasts are discontinued next February—have been slow to arrive. But there are now at least 25 models available, at prices ranging from just under $50 to about $80, and we've tested 14 of them. We'll be posting results of these tests, with a comparison of those models, within the next week or so, along with more detailed buying advice.

[June 18, 2008 UPDATE: Our complete Guide to DTV converter boxes, including our Ratings, is now available on ConsumerReports.org. —Ed.]

[June 10, 2009 UPDATE: We've hit a bit of a snag in posting the results of our DTV converter box tests on ConsumerReports.org. But we've posted more details about our findings in this recent blog post: DTV converters: Best performers from our tests. We'll continue to work on posting the fuller testing details—as well as new results from the latest converter boxes we're able to buy and get into our labs—as soon as possible on ConsumerReports.org. We regret this unfortunate delay. —Ed.]

Judging by our tests, there isn't much variation in performance. Every one of these boxes converted broadcast digital signals pulled in by our rooftop antenna (a standard residential model) into analog signals an older TV can accept. When supplied with a strong signal, all produced acceptable picture quality, though some were slightly better or worse than others. In addition, their tuners performed comparably in tests of their ability to pull in digital signals. That suggests you'd get the same number of channels with just about any model.

That doesn't mean you can expect to get the same number of channels as us, a friend in a different state, or even a neighbor across town. What you'll see depends on where you live, the local terrain, the number of stations broadcasting in your area, signal strength, and the antenna you use. It would be very difficult for any set of lab tests to accurately predict what you'll experience at home, given all these variables. Comments from some of our blog readers indicate that they have had problems with reception.

Most of the converters we've seen are black boxes, (though you'll find the occasional silver, white, or gray box) about half the size of a VCR. The smallest models are about the size of a paperback book. A few converters add stylish curves or other touches.

So how should you choose among converter boxes, and how far wrong can you go? Virtually any model should keep your analog TV operable in a digital world. All things being equal, we'd go with a model offering better-than-average picture quality.

Also consider features. While all government-approved boxes have the same basic features, some add other features that might add to convenience. For example, some of our blog readers want a box with analog pass-through, enabling it to pass along both analog and digital signals, while others want a unit that can control a VCR, enabling scheduled recordings.

Price is likely to be a factor for many purchasers as well. For the lower-priced boxes now available, your out-of-pocket cost after the $40 coupon available from the government would be about $10 or so; with the costlier units, you might have to lay out an extra $30.

Consumers are still waiting for the promised $40 models, which will be covered completely (except for sales tax) by a coupon. EchoStar's $40 TR40 could be the first to arrive; it's expected within the next month or so. We'll test it, and other notable models, when they become available.

Since some blog respondents have reported trouble finding certain boxes, our comparison table will list where we bought them; outlets include online retailers and stores such as Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Circuit City, and Radio Shack.

—Eileen McCooey