Dumb Question

[Kidlaw]

I'm buying a Pioneer Elite 520HDTV. I have Direct TV. What receiver would you recommend. Thanks for the help .

[newtohdtv]

I dont know anything about DierectTV because i use DishNetwork but I was surprised to see no one helped you with a reply so I am posting just to bounce you back to the top and see if one of the regulars can help you out. Take care,

n2hdtv

[Kidlaw]

Thanks, I'm still hoping for a response, I am unsure whether any receivers have OTA's built in or if I need an additional reciever. Also:

1) should I have my 520 calibrated by a professional right after delivery.

2) Do I need to purchase an OTA attenna to recieve local HDTV in the LA area ?

Thanks for any help!!

[Ratman]

The majority of HD receivers are DirecTV and OTA. You can choose from Hughes. RCA, Toshiba, Zenith, etc.

Prices will vary, but not much! Usually around $400-$500. Keep in mind that the purchase price usually requires a 1 year sub requirment. Since you are already a subscriber, perhaps that price can be negotiated.

I suggest that you call DirecTV forst and tell them that you pruchased a new HDTV and want to upgrade. They may cut you some slack.

Anyway... for OTA, 99% of HD STB's have OTA built in, so all you need to do is your homework and verify what stations broadcast digitally, how far they are from you, and buy an antenna.

Check out www.titantv.com for starters...

For 'calibration', you need to have at least 100 hours of 'burn-in'.
I suggest run the OTA/STB hurdles first.