rougher
05-09-2006, 09:17 PM
I have recently purchased a Sony KV30HS420 and I was hoping for some advice. I do not wish to sign up for digital cable yet. I mostly got the system so I can get HDTV picture with the new console game machines; however, I would like to get as clear a signal as I could get with my regular cable signal (Rogers). Right now my signal is pretty bad, as its split with my sister's TV. How can I improve my signal aside from removing the split? Do those signal amplifiers work? If so what should I look for when I purchase one? Also, should I purchase one of those Monster Power "Distributors" or "Protector" (not sure what it's called. Are they worth the price? If so what benefits do they provide. I read on one that it's supposed to improve the quality of the image because it balances the power. Sorry for the barrage of questions but if anyone could help I would really appreciate it.
1. See the HDTV FAQ on "Poor SD PQ".
2. I'd recommend getting an HD STB (soon), especially the HD DVR (SA8300HD) - people love their DVRS. Rogers has a lot of HD available in Toronto and you have an HDTV.
3. Once you've got a STB, or if you have broadband with Rogers, you can check the signal strength into the home. A 2-way splitter loses 3.5 dB only. If you need an Amp, Rogers will supply it. If you want to buy one, you need one that's bidirectional and rated 5-1000 MHz. You do not want to "over amp" your signal.
4. I wouldn't spend money on Mon$ter anything and I doubt if a "conditioner, etc" is necessary. Sales people are always trying to sell this stuff, it's very high margin, especially Mon$ter.
5. You could purchase a digital (SD) STB for about $50-100 and often get a programming credit of $100 (over many months). The digital STB MAY give you a better PQ since Rogers have "all channels digital".
You would get more channels than just the analogue ones and you'd get a bunch of digital channels for free for the first few months...
The programming credit often also applies to the HD STBs. Also, sometimes there are "deals" on the HD STBs, when you buy your TV, you can contract with Rogers for a free HD STB for a year (STB), 6 months or so (DVR)...when you buy your TV... If your TV purchase is very recent, contact your store about such an offer.
