Talkology Recap: 1.30.09

HOT TOPIC: "DTV Ready?"

Chances are if you own a TV, you've seen the ads. If you've watched the news, you've seen the ads. If you've been on the internet, you've seen the ads. The digital transition is quickly approaching... or is it?

We've known for probably two years now that on February 17, 2009 television will make the switch from analog signal to digital. This is suppose to make a great improvement to the quality of our picture and sound, plus give us more options (as if we don't have enough already). But just this past week, congress approved to postponing the transition another 4-5 months! 

It's reported that approximately 6.5 million Americans are still using "rabbit ears" to get their daily dose of TV. I personally did not realize that there were this many people in the 21st Century that did not have cable or satellite. If you are one of these people, this will probably concern you. But consider the other 306 million people living in the country. I say don't postpone this transition any longer. The government has done a great job of offering help to those who needed it by presenting a coupon for the "digital converter box" that will allow people to continue to use their rabbit ears, so they don't have to sign a cable or satellite contract. But it's time. 

Now, whether or not this transition will make a huge impact on the way the average joe views TV is still up for debate. Many say it won't make a difference at all to the average viewer, others say it will make a huge difference in the way we see TV. The theory is that the picture will be clearer and the sound sharper... I guess we will find out soon enough.

Give us your opinion. Comment on this story and other stories and be sure to vote in our weekly poll. This week "Are you DTV ready?" and be sure to download our weekly podcast "Talkology" by going to SearcyLiving.com and clicking on the podcast link.