[IMG]http://simplefeed.consumerreports.org/rsrc/i/1/_/dtv_converter_boxes_more_rated_some_scarceat_lea_1 50074896/4.gif?f=3dcb3160-01dc-11dc-32a2-0019bbc55f7f&s=AewyNia7NTvDvhaDemju5DEsbnVsbCwwLDA *[/IMG] DTV converter boxes: More rated, some scarce—at least for now

We've updated our exclusive Ratings of DTV converter boxes (free to all visitors), which now include 43 models, covering a good chunk of the market.
While the original deadline for all-digital over-the-air broadcasts was recently pushed back from Feb. 17 to June 12, more than 600 broadcasters nationwide have already discontinued analog transmissions. In those areas, you now require a converter box to receive free TV on an analog TV connected to an antenna. Even in areas where analog broadcasts will continue until June, digital signals are already available, so you can use a box right away. (Click on the embedded player at right to see our video, Free High-definition TV.)
As in our previous tests, all the boxes converted broadcast digital signals from our rooftop antenna into analog signals that an older TV can accept, offering picture and sound quality that was decent if not better. They also performed comparably in their ability to pull in digital stations, though the number you can receive with any box depends on a number of variables.
DTV converter box features vary, so find one that has the capabilities you want. The Dish models and Zinwell, for instance, have VCR timers, a feature that gives you more recording flexibility.
Models range in price from about $45 to $80 and differ mainly in features. Shipping from an online retailer typically adds $10 or so to the tab.

Most brick-and-mortar stores carry only one or two models; some online retailers have a more extensive line-up. We were unable to find a number of tested models in stock anywhere as we posted the Ratings. Some manufacturers had stopped making the boxes as the original February deadline approached but a representative of the Consumer Electronics Association told Congress recently that manufacturers would resume production and should deliver new inventory to retailers by April.
The best way to find a model is to do an online search to see where it may be available at the time you're shopping. The NTIA Web site lists national, local, and online retailers that sell coupon-eligible converter boxes. Prices in the Ratings reflect what we found at press time but may change over time or vary at different retailers. Keep in mind that if you shop online, you generally have to pay shipping; fees of about are common.

If you need a box but haven't yet requested a $40 government coupon to defray the cost of an approved DTV converter box, we suggest you do so as soon as possible. Though the coupon program has recently received additional funding, it's expected to take several weeks to clear a backlog that developed after it ran out of money in January.
If you want to request one or two government coupons, call 888-DTV-2009 or go to www.DTV2009.gov. There, you'll also find a list of online retailers, and you can enter your zip code to find local merchants as well. Visit our free online guide to the digital TV transition for more complete information on the digital TV switchover and DTV converter boxes.
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