Reader mail: Do I need a new HDTV before the DTV deadline?

I've been getting this question more and more in the past few weeks. Short answer: No!

Here's one of the many such e-mails I've been getting in my inbox lately (name withheld to protect the innocent):

Hi there! You seem to know all about HDTVs so I thought I'd ask you. I know the analog TV shutoff is coming in a few months [Ed. note: The exact date is February 17, 2009], so I guess that means I finally need an HDTV. Any recommendations on what model/size to get? Do I need 120Hz? HDMI? Please help!!!

OK folks, I've said it before, and I'll say it again: You do NOT need to buy a new HDTV come the Feb. 17 DTV deadline. I repeat: You DON’T need a new TV. That said, you might need a DTV converter box to keep watching your favorite stations once the deadline passes. Does that mean you? Read on.

So, first question to ask yourself: Do you get your TV signals from cable, satellite, or over an antenna (either rooftop or rabbit ears)? If you answered "cable" or "satellite," you can stop reading—you're all set. [Note: Are you using cable, but without a cable box? Then you might need a converter box from your carrier; click here for more details.]

Using an antenna? Gotcha. Now, here's the next question: How recently did you buy your TV? If you got one in the last five years or so, it may have a digital (ATSC) tuner already installed; check the specs in your user manual. See one listed? If so, congratulations; you're set.

No ATSC tuner? Then you'll need a DTV converter box. Don't worry—they're small, cheap (about $40-60 or so), and easy to set up, and they’ll work on even older-model tube TVs (although you may need a VHF/UHF coaxial cable splitter, like this one).

To get a converter, visit the FCC's DTV transition Web site, where you can apply for up to two $40 converter-box coupons per household. Do yourself a favor and apply now, before the last-minute rush hits in February.

Finally, time to go shopping. Converter boxes are available at such retailers as Best Buy, Circuit City, Kmart, Radio Shack, Sears, Target, and Wal-Mart. Consumer Reports has a guide to the latest models right here.

Related:
DTV converter boxes: What to look for