Why an ATSC tuner is a good idea:
1. subchannels. D* doesn't have the bandwidth to put the subchannels on the satellite. Subchannels are especially important in smaller markets that carry multiple network feeds. Some towns have FOX and MY TV (or ABC and FOX) on the same ATSC channel, just different subchannel.
2. Weather. snow and thunderstorms knock out the satellite feed. Nice to have OTA feeds with an antenna
3. Guide scrolling. Easy to navigate between channels when they're all integrated into one system. Switching between TV inputs is a pain most people won't deal with.
4. Picture quality. less compression on OTA
5. LIN and other mercenaries are holding D* viewers hostage with excessive carry costs. If you have an OTA option in the guide, you can get the station without worrying about the latest carriage agreement.
6. Dish Network has OTA compatibility either built in or as an accessory. D* needs to remain competetive.
7. PBS HD. D* does not carry it right now. PBS also has multiple subchannels. D* will never carry all of this. You need OTA to get it.
that's a start...
No one should expect D* to put up your OTA antenna. But, we should continue to plead for an integrated ATSC tuner or at least the AM21 to be compatible with all receivers and DVRs. Frankly, I'm getting tired of making this point 1,000 times. D* is not responsive enough to the consumer and that looks bad.
