QAM tuner question

[Stellcat]

I'm the market for an LCD TV and I'm new to this world. I have a question and would greatly appreciate any help.

Some TV's I've been looking at and researching have ATSC and QAM tuners while some others have just have the ATSC tuner and not the QAM.

Is a QAM tuner all that important or needed? Some of the TV's I've really liked just have the ATSC listed in their specs.

Thanks

[mjones73]

QAM tuners are used to receive unencrypted digital/HD channels via cable. If you have cable that offers unencrypted digital channels (usually locals only) and don't plan to pay extra to upgrade to premium HD channels and an STB, the QAM tuner could come in handy, otherwise it's not needed.

[57U]

The QAM tuner is also used in conjunction with CableCARD, which can be rented from the Service Provider. This will allow you to see all the encrypted channels that you pay for. The CableCARD acts as the "key" to unlock all the cable channels, the same way that a STB from the service provider works, without the need for a STB.

See the HDTV FAQ "Can I get Digital Cable.

[mjones73]

Just keep in mind not all sets with QAM tuners have cable card slots also.