How do you watch TV?

Most households across Canada and many in the U.S. rely on cable tv or satellite tv services to bring the multi-channel universe of television into their homes.  With the explosion of HDTV and even 3D TV technologies, without exception, these services will provide consumers with the most channel selections available.

But cable and satellite tv services come at a price...and for many that price is too much. 

Instead, a trend continues to emerge whereby consumers in both countries are dropping cable tv and satellite tv services and opting instead for the old fashion "rabbit ears" and tower antennas for their TV viewing.

  Antennas Direct, maker of the new style rabbit ears expects to sell 500,000 this year, up from 385,000 in 2009.The cost is is between $25 and $150 (U.S. Dollars).

Almost all local television stations and major networks broadcast a 100% digital or HDTV signal that can easily be picked up "over the air" with basic antennas now available more readily at retailers.  The signal comes in crystal clear, even in large metropolitan areas where in the past, using antennas was not an option (interference from tall buildings, electrical wires, etc.).  And best of all...receiving these signals into your home is free!

Digital tv signals, unlike the old analogue ones, tune in 100% without any interference or ghosting.  In large metropolitan areas customers can get up to 40 free channels. And the picture signal in many case is superior to what is offered through cable and satellite tv services (those signals tend to be "compressed" to make room for more and more stations...some people can tell the difference).

Opting for antennas does mean many consumers will lose the multitude of specialty television stations offered through cable and satellite tv providers.  However, many are willing to go without their HBO or ESPN or TSN to actually be able to afford to watch their fancy HDTV's. 

Many are simply finding the content and programming they would be missing on the Internet! The over the air digital spectrum also allows antenna users to pick up "sub-stations" of the main broadcaster...they broadcast a lot of specialty programming. WGRZ-TV in Buffalo, for example, has multiple sub-stations, all broadcasting in digital, and even has one dedicated purely to classic TV sitcoms from the 1950's through to today.

So let us know how you watch TV...do you have cable, or satellite tv or are you a convert back to "rabbit ears?"  Or do you watch all your TV through internet sites instead?  Leave us some comments...sort of an informal poll!  Thanks!