Newbie HD question

[1100011CS]

Okay, so I bought the LCD TV with HD built in and upgraded my DishNetwork to the HD package. Now a couple questions: 1. I know some of the local (central Iowa) stations broadcast in HD, how do I get them? Do I have to buy an external antenna too? 2. On the ESPN and ESPN2 HD stations why are there black "bars" on both sides of the screen that cover about 1/3 of the picture with the words "ESPN HD"? Do I have my TV setup incorrectly or is that just how they broadcast to use less bandwidth?

 

[DevilDog]

the bars on the side are only there when the content isnt hd. your getting the 4:3 mode in sd is all. some channels its just black like locals others have writing to give u something to look at like espn or big ten network.

 

[ISUKyro]

If you want over the air HD yes, you need an antenna.
The black bars may be there for several reasons. First if you have the box going to your tv with co axil cable (like regular cable) the signal will not be in HD. You should at the least use component cables (The RED,BLUE AND GREEN). If you want you can upgrade the cables, but Component is pretty good. Also sometimes HD channels still have the bars, but on ESPN it always says something on the bars so you know you are still getting the proper signal. Feel free to PM me with any additional questions.

 

[ISUFan22]

Here are some past threads I recommend you read...

http://www.cyclonefanatic.com/forum/off-topic/14807-dish-dtv-hd-dvr-ota.html

http://www.cyclonefanatic.com/forum/cf-archive/5744-time-has-come.html

 

[1100011CS]

I'm using an HDMI cable from the cable box to the TV. But, just now realized that I'm watching the football game on ESPNHD and there's no black bars so it must have just been the broadcast (maybe a commercial?). So, as for the antenna, I looked up my address at AntennaWeb and it looks like I need at least a "blue" coded antenna (I live in Marshalltown). No idea what that means but can anyone recommend one? Sorry if this question has already been answered in one of the links already posted. I just skimmed through them and didn't see a specific brand/model.

 

[ISUFan22]

I have this one...

Antennas Direct DB2 UHF HDTV Antenna (DB2) | DB2 [Antennas Direct] | DB-2 d-B2 db 2

It's a small multi-directional. I'm guessing you'll need a medium or large antenna. You can get the DB4 (I have the DB2). I installed a DB4 on the roof of my in-laws house and it works great.

Understanding CEA Antenna Marks for Outdoor Antennas | Solid Signal

Looking at that suggestion, you probably want a medium or large directional (note, not a multi-directional) with an amplifier.

 

[1100011CS]

This is starting to look like a lot of work. So, you're saying the DB4 won't work for me, right? And I need a "Medium Directional" with amplifier? Where does the amplifier go? I mean, is it at the box or on the roof? I hope inside so I don't have to run an outlet to the roof How hard is it too hook up the antenna? Do I have to run another coax from the roof to the dish box or do you "splice" into the dish cable? Anyway, at over $100, is it really worth it? I guess I've already paid out the arse for the HD TV, HD dish package, etc... what's another $100, right?

 

[herbicide]

Dirty little secret they conveniently leave out until they are done installing.

You cannot splice the satellite co-ax, you will have to run a new one. I live in Ankeny (6 miles away from the towers) and I can barely get away with rabbit ears. DB-4 Should work.

An alternative is you can wait for the channels to become available thru the dish. I've heard around the first of the year, but I also heard a few weeks after my install, which was in July

 

[1100011CS]

Dirty little secret they conveniently leave out until they are done installing.

Yeah, another "dirty little secret" is they tell you "6 months free HD" but neglect to inform you of the $150 upgrade charge plus $50 installation fee.

An alternative is you can wait for the channels to become available thru the dish. I've heard around the first of the year, but I also heard a few weeks after my install, which was in July

That's good to know. I'm thinking that's the route I'll take for now. Thanks for everyone's input!

 

[herbicide]

I went with directv, I didn't have any upgrade or installation fees. Just $10 more per month.

 

[keepngoal]

Buy the aerial antenna. So many upsides. $200 for a bahemeth version with tri-stand. If you need more info, I can post more tomorrow. right now I am skimming the thread and posts.. doing my mod thang.

-keep

 

[superdorf]

When I first started my HD endeavor I tried a whole bunch of expensive antennas. I ended up with this one:

This antenna cost $29.99:
RadioShack.com - Home Entertainment: Accessories: Antennas: Outdoor: 40" Boom Length, 17 Elements Outdoor Antenna for UHF-Only

 

[1100011CS]

I went with directv, I didn't have any upgrade or installation fees. Just $10 more per month.

I guess I should have researched it more:sad:

 

[clonomaniac]

so if you do not have dish network and you have mediacom cable, you don't need the antenna for your hdtv?

 

[taco2000]

Take a look at the first post on this page.
TV Antenna Source Indoor/Outdoor TV Antennas - digital/HDTV

My parents live in Marshalltown as well. I was thinking of
getting the MS2000 for them.

 

[1100011CS]

So, I was bored yesterday and went to Radio Shack and bought a outdoor omnidirectional amplified antenna. That way I could take it take it back easier if it didn't work. Got it home and hooked it up inside just to see what happed. Immediately got several HD stations. So mounted it on the roof today and I'm getting 20 or so more HD channels. I'm picking one up from Mason City! It was awesome to be able to watch the game tonight in HD. Thanks for everyone's input.