Which local cable should I choose QAM?

[XDVD]

I'm an OSU student and am trying to figure out which cable provider I want to get. I ordered a DVICO Fusion 5 for my HTPC (it supports QAM). If I get analog cable will I get the unencrypted QAM channels? Or is that only if I get digital cable?

Mainly I want the locals in HD. I have a big Terk Antennae for HD reception if need be, but I'd rather not have that ugly thing (its quality sucks too).

I read through all the threads here and I got confused. We have had DirectTV for 12 years so I havent paid any attention to cable services.. and I'm a little lost.

Also which company do you all recommend?

[bullwinkle]

I know that Insight carries the local HD's unencrypted and I have heard that Time-Warner also allows you to view the local HD with a QAM equipped receiver.

That leaves WOW. For some reason they encrypt almost ALL of the their digital content, including the local HD, despite a request by the FCC that all cablecos not encrypt the local HD.

So, to answer your question, your can view the local HD programming with a QAM equipped receiver if you subscribe to Insight or Time-Warner's analog package. To view local HD on WOW you will need to rent their HD receiver.

[dhausman]

I used to live just north of campus on Lane Ave. All I needed was a cheapo Radio Shack rabbit ears. If I wanted UPN I used a larger antenna, but I just busted that out when I wanted upn and put it in the window.

-Dan

[soundmix]

To the original poster, I assume you'll be living off campus because you're trying to decide on a cable provider. If you were living on campus you could get cable from UNITS. Despite the fact that WOW is UNITS supplier, campus cable has all of the local stations HD broadcasts in unencrypted QAM.