A digital tuner, also known as an ATSC tuner or HDTV tuner, is an audio/video receiver that allows your TV to receive and display digital television signals. Digital tuners are now integrated into TVs, VCRs, DVD Recorders, and set-top boxes. Furthermore, due to the current national transition from analog to digital broadcasting (set to conclude in early 2009), all analog TVs will soon require a digital tuner to “down-convert” digital signals to maintain display capabilities when analog ends.
After the national transition to digital broadcasting is complete, everyone will need a digital tuner to receive over-the-air signals. When you upgrade to a Digital TV, you will not only get all the great benefits of digital broadcasts, including theater-quality pictures and sound, you’ll also have access to additional digital services and perks as soon as they’re released.