Which brand of TV has the best ATSC turner?

mooncancook

Platinum Member
May 28, 2003
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I don't have cable so I need a TV with good OTA HD reception. Recently I bought a Sharp Aquos 42D65U, no issue with the panel, but it seems the OTA HD reception is not very good. My 2 yr old 37" Vizio can pick up more channels and less prone to interference. When I turn on my HTPC the HD channels on the Sharp pretty much become unwatchable.

So is any brand know to have very good ATSC tuner? In particular how is Sony's tuner? I'm considering returning the Sharp (but have to pay $150 restocking fee!!) and get a Sony 42V4100. I think the Sony has much better PC support over VGA connection, but I have no experience with its tuner.
 

vi edit

Elite Member
Super Moderator
Oct 28, 1999
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My Samsung A650 is picking up HD channels from close to 80 miles away. That's pretty freaking good IMHO.

It's picking up stations my previous LG didn't even know existed.
 

mooncancook

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May 28, 2003
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I almost pick up the Samsung 40A630 from Sears. Their price is too high but they could price match with Frys, but then they told me their 36 mo financing does not apply to price-match items which sux. The reason I'm considering the Sony is that it's also 42" and it's on sale at SonyStyle now and also qualify for 36 mo financing. Not sure if it's worth it to suck up the restocking fee.
 

mshan

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Nov 16, 2004
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Extrapolating from tv tuner cards for computers, I'd say anything with a 5th generation tuner chip should be good.

They are supposed to have excellent multi-path resistance.

I'd read some reviews of tvs of interest and see if there are any complaints about slow channel switching with OTA HDTV.

You can also check out http://www.antennaweb.org to see what OTA HDTV signals are available in your area, how far you are away from the transmitters, and direction of transmission. I'd get say 25 - 50 ft. of tv coax from Monoprice.com and start with a "Silver Sensor" type hdtv antenna to see where reception is best (unless you can mount a true outdoor antenna on the roof or in the attic).