Randy:
Unfortunately, I'm no help with 90% of this but want to throw a few tidbits out there:
I've read editorials (Sound and Vision, I think) describing how cable companies really try to deter cable card slots. Why? Because they make good money renting the boxes. I think it's worth taking the cable companies' advice with a grain of salt when they have a financial interest in the decision going one way or another.
On the other side of the coin, investing in a model with a built-in cable card
may not be a good idea as of yet in that the cards are only in their first generation... there's no two way communication to allow PPV or channel guide functions. That capability is coming soon in the next generation, but it's not here yet.
In reply to:
I guess my worry is that he may not always be on cable, he might get a dish someday, or who knows what other technology is knocking at our door.
Personally, I'm also not a fan of getting a built-in tuner
unless there is good terrestrial (antenna) HD reception. As an example, my area is in a little valley and antenna reception is very poor. I don't foresee any reason over the life of my TV that I would
not need cable or satellite reception, so why pay for a built-in tuner? Besides, I really, really, like the hi-def DVR capabilities built in to many boxes now. It sounds as if you're saying your dad will need cable or satellite. Those boxes have built-in tuners (sometimes DUAL tuners) so why pay extra for one in the TV?
I'm really not an expert in this, and I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong on any points. I figure if I'm right, though, I've sved someone else some typing!
Just wait for others to confirm these points before you call your dad!
