Audio Video News

For those who can't sleep at night worrying about the impending analog TV cutoff on February 17th, 2009, the AV Tool ATSC-100 HDTV Off-Air Receiver might be better than an Ambien or a Lunesta. (We're not endorsing specific medications, of course. We prefer to use late-night TV infomercials as sedatives.)

The ATSC-100 is a digital set-top box that tunes in HDTV broadcasts and can output them either in high-definition (via component video) or standard definition analog video (via composite video). Both 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios are supported. Output resolution can be to 480p, 720p, or 1080i when the component outputs are used. The box also outputs stereo analog audio.

The ATSC-100 displays the resolution of the broadcast so the viewer can tell immediately - if his eyes don't already tell him - whether the signal is being broadcast in High Definition or not.

AV Tool says that in addition to offering comprehensive on-screen displays for user control of the unit, the ATSC-100 includes a seven-day Electronic Program Guide (EPG). Multiple profiles can be created to set image parameters for different types of programming. Channels can be automatically scanned into memory or added manually. A Favorite Channel list can also be created.

The ATSC-100 is available now for $199. The ATSC-A50 optional indoor antenna, intended for use within 25 miles of the station's transmitter, is available for $29.