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Minimizing cable/internet bills

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  • Internet Connection
  • Cable
  • Internet
Last response: in Entertainment
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January 24, 2014 2:46:07 AM

For work, I need a fast internet connection, so I am guessing Xfinity is the only way to go (fios is not in my area).

However, I am looking to minimize my total cable bill. I know that I can drop to internet only, and use Hulu+ and Netflix, but is there any way to get local networks in HD? I have 3 kids and they watch a lot of live sports.

If anyone has an Xfinity alternative or advice on local channels via HD for sports, I'd appreciate it.

Thanks!

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January 24, 2014 3:44:01 AM

Unless you live out in the boonies, you can pick up the local HD channels OTA (over the air) with an antenna. It's compressed less than cable/fiber/satellite, so the picture quality will actually be better. Most HDTVs have an OTA tuner built-in. Use these two websites to determine how many channels are within range of your home, and which direction you'd need to point the antenna.

http://www.antennaweb.org/
http://www.antennapoint.com/

The best small/cheap antenna is the bowtie type. It's rather ugly and bulky though, so is best if you can shove it in a closet or your attic (take note that a longer cable from the antenna to your tuner will degrade the signal and may cause you to lose channels).
http://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Aspen-EASDTV2BUHF-Directv-A...

For a cleaner installation, the flat leaf antennas are nearly as good.
http://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Ultra-Thin-Indoor-An...
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January 24, 2014 5:01:17 AM

I am 22 miles to Philly, so I have to go with the large directional unit (in the attic). Now, I have multiple TV's, so I would need to split to wach one and use an amp? Does using multiple TV's at once weaken the signal?

Any thoughts on internet? is Xfinity my only option?

thanks for your help!
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January 31, 2014 7:45:32 AM

Is comcast the only cable provider in your area? Time-Warner has speeds up to 50Mbps.
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