Watching TV has been a part of our everyday lives for a few decades now. It used to be (and still is, to some extent) the main source of information, news, education and entertainment. And even though the internet has slowly been taking over, we now have more choices on TV than ever. Although cable TV has become prevalent, there’s been an increase in demand for digital antennas.
There are a couple of reasons that make digital antenna installation Melbourne wide so sought-after, but there are also some downsides to it. Let’s discuss the differences between cable and digital antenna installation Melbourne residents need to factor in before deciding which route to go.
Initial and Running Costs
The first things that comes to most people’s mind is probably cost. A digital antenna will save you a lot of money in the long run, as the only expense you need to worry about is the initial investment. After that, all your TV viewing is free. On the other hand, cable TV requires a monthly fee, but you may get a discount if you bundle your TV service with other services, such as internet and phone.
Setting Up
If you opt for cable TV, then you’ll need professional help from a cable installer, who’ll be sent from the company of your choosing to do all the work. On the other hand, if you want antenna TV, you’ll likely still have to get professional help, but you’ll also have to pay for all the equipment, the antenna included. However, if you’re savvy, you can do the antenna installation on your own.
Channel Count
There are a lot of channels available through cable TV exclusively, including some paid channels like Cinemax and HBO. On the other hand, antennas can pick up broadcast networks like ABC, Foxtel, SBS and many others, plus independent stations without any network affiliation. Depending on where you reside, the antenna can receive dozens of local stations, some of which offer prime-time programming.
Supplementation With Other Services
In this regard, both cable and antenna TV can be supplemented with extra services. Some on-demand services can provide shows online anytime you want them. Some, like Netflix, require a monthly subscription, while others, such as the basic Hulu service are free. Some of the main broadcast networks may also provide a few shows on their websites. These on-demand services are popular with people who only want to see certain shows instead of paying for cable channels they don’t want.