New channel for 2009 converter box?

Question

I was wondering: I downgraded my cable to limited channels, due to the fact that cable keeps going up and many times there is nothing worth watching, but I miss my foodtv and history, turner etc. I understand that in 2009 with the convertor box will come some or a few new channels, what will they be? and is there any place you can find out what programs will come with the box, I was thinking about cut cable off all together. Dish network customer service was so rude (and I called twice, and got the same treatment each time), I just couldn't get pass their rudeness to ask any questions about their programing and Direct Tv had some hidden fees. Am hoping maybe there will be some likeable programs with this new situation.

Answer 1

The transition in Feb 2009 and the converter boxes in the news only effect free over the air broadcasts and have nothing to do with cable or satellite TV.

The only thing the converter boxes do is connect between a TV antenna and TV so that older analog only TVs can receive the new digital broadcasts.

In most areas there is more digital over the air programing than analog, but the programing is similar in nature to the old analog broadcasts. No one is going to give away cable only programing for free.

In most areas there are already  digital broadcasts. To find out what is in your area just go to the TV sections of Yahoo and set it up for your zip code and digital antenna service.

Answer 2

Sorry but you won't get Food TV, History, TNT, etc in Feb 2009 when the change from analog to digital TV takes place.  You can get some new channels though.  For example, in my area, analog channel for ABC is 7.  The digital channels available now are 7-1, 7-2, and 7-3.  7-1 is the same as 7 but digital.  Channel 7-2 is a weather channel.  Channel 7-3 is a local access channel.  Yes  more channels but no cable-only channels.

If FIOS is available in your area, it is an alternative to cable and satellite TV.  They are usually nicer because they are the "new kids on the block" and have spent a lot of money putting fiber optics into the ground and need customers to recoup their installation investment costs.