DTV Comparison and Conclusion
Final Scores
|
RCA |
Insignia |
Digital |
Apex |
Channel |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Appearance |
4 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
4 |
|
Ports |
4 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
4 |
|
Remote |
3 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
3 |
|
Initial Setup |
3 |
4 |
3 |
4 |
3 |
|
Menu System |
4 |
4 |
2 |
3 |
5 |
|
Channel Info |
5 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
5 |
|
Program Guide |
3 |
4 |
2 |
1 |
5 |
|
Signal Strength |
3 |
4 |
3 |
3 |
5 |
|
Picture Quality |
3 |
4 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
|
Sound Quality |
4 |
5 |
2 |
3 |
5 |
|
Over All Score |
3.5 |
4 |
2.5 |
3 |
4.5 |
|
MSRP |
$50 |
$60 |
$60 |
$55 |
$60 |
Summary
The clear winner in the shootout is the Channel Master CM-7000. Only really lacking with the remote control, the picture and system quality was outstanding. Of course, the best image was available with the S-video output but the composite video output still provided an excellent picture. As the runner up, the Insignia NS-DXA1-APT is disappearing from the shelves of local Best Buy stores, but still provides an excellent system for local buyers. Please don't forget that the Zenith DTT901 is identical to the Insignia and can still be found from various internet sources. Even though the low cost RCA tuner from Wal-Mart fell in third place, it was still a decent choice for new users or for smaller and secondary CRT sets. The remote was easy to use with large buttons, as well. Sorry, I can't really give any honorable mentions to the other two TV converter boxes, as they just had too many issues to overcome.
Be sure to apply for your government issued TV converter box coupons as they will reduce the price of any of these boxes by $40 for up to 2 boxes per household. To apply and for more information, see https://www.dtv2009.gov
