Basic cable to digital cable?

Question

hey i have basic cable(cogeco) i also have a Full 1080 P HDTV which down converts to 720P. i was wondering if i connect a HD digital cable box will i get high definition channels, i know all the channels wont be HD, since only a handfull are HD. but will it work. i am getting the receiver from my cousin who is moving and had previously bought the receiver. will i have to subscribe to HD digital cable or will it just work. i have to pay my cousin $200 for the receiver before he can mail it out. so i need to know for sure

Answer 1

You have to subscribe to the  high def channels (they're kind of like a premium package).  Most cable companies will provide you with a box (if you have a quam card you don't even need the box).  If you go with Direct TV, they'll give you the high def receiver (you can even get one with DVR capability if you want. Compare prices and long term costs before you shell out the $200 to your cousin.

Your best bet is , if you haven't done so already, get a low profile outdoor antenna and check out your local over the air broadcasts. If your tv has a built in digital tuner (which it should) the major networks are broadcasting most prime time shows in hd (NBC, CBS, CW are 1080i  while ABC and Fox are 720p)  You don't necessarily need an outdoor antenna, simple rabbit ears would do the trick if the signal was strong enough.