Terrestrial set-top box for digital television

Changes in mass television broadcasting are approaching in rapid strides. Very soon, the analog signal will be completely replaced by digital. But there is nothing to be afraid of. You don't need to buy an expensive TV to watch television. Change is happening quickly, but electronic equipment manufacturers are keeping up with it and introducing solutions for terrestrial television reception. One such solution is a set-top box for digital television. Which connects to the TV receiver. A decoder or T2 set-top box is a device for accessing digital services. Built-in image and sound decompression functions in the MPEG-4 standard allow you to watch television in digital quality even on technically outdated TVs.

An ordinary TV viewer who is just planning to connect to DVB-T2 will need to understand which set-top box is needed for digital television in his case.

Owners of old TVs are interested in:

Should they replace the TV set or buy a set-top box?
What digital set-top box is suitable for an old TV in the country?

Here we will try to consider the most popular answers.

What are digital TV tuners

A set-top box or decoder is an electronic device that connects to a television to receive programs broadcast in digital format. The set-top box has several connectors, the most important are: antenna connector (for inputting a TV signal from an antenna), RCA or SCART (Euro) connector, HDMI connector.

You may be interested in: Choosing an over-the-air digital set-top box

A digital set-top box in store price lists may be called a “receiver” or “tuner.” This is not a mistake: the English word “receive” means “to accept”, and the word “tune” means “to adjust”.

Each receiver has a microcircuit (ROM), this microcircuit controls the set-top box. This chip is usually called a “controller,” although some call it a “processor.” The controller operates according to its own microprogram, developed by people, and this microprogram has flaws and shortcomings. Therefore, the manufacturer, trying to improve the parameters of the digital set-top box, releases an updated version of the software. Which can be read through the USB input in the receiver and replace the working version with a new one.

Why does a TV need a digital set-top box?

Owners of new TV models do not have to worry - most of them already have a built-in decoder. But those TV viewers whose receiver is several years old and who do not plan to change it, must purchase a set-top box for their TV to watch digital television.

It will allow you to watch twenty Russian channels in digital format without entering into any agreements with digital television platforms. Their purchase is not associated with further payments. It is enough to connect the set-top box to the antenna and TV, and everything is ready to receive free digital television programs. Many receiver models have advanced capabilities. Representing a home multimedia entertainment center.

Best USB DACs

Such models allow you to use a personal computer or laptop as a signal source. They are distinguished by high sound quality and wide filtering capabilities. Such DACs are common in professional environments and are used in conjunction with other audio equipment.

RME ADI-2 DAC

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The main feature of the model is the presence of a high-power digital signal processor. It provides minimal audio distortion and stable audio output. Thanks to the ability to select one of five filtering options and a parametric equalizer, the user can customize the sound of each file.

Additional options for regulating the output sound include stepwise amplification of the output stages, phase inversion, loudness compensation, etc. The device is equipped with a color screen, a large number of controllers and encoders, as well as a remote control for ease of operation.

Advantages:

flexible settings;
high-quality sound;
IPS screen;
automatic software update;
a large number of exits.

Flaws:

high price.

The RME ADI-2 DAC is designed not only to improve quality, but also to customize your sound. An excellent choice for professional use.

M-Audio M-Track Hub

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

96%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

On the body of the model there is a USB2 hub containing three type A outputs. They are convenient to use for connecting a storage device, smartphone or MIDI keyboard to the converter. The sound level of two balanced 1/4″ TRS Jack outputs can be adjusted using a convenient knob.

Sampling frequency is up to 48 kHz, bit depth is 24 bits. On the body of the device there is an independent volume controller for headphones. Thanks to its compact metal housing, the DAC can be installed in any convenient location and is extremely easy to transport.

Advantages:

clear interface;
a large number of exits;
clear sound;
durable body;
convenient setup.

Flaws:

short-term interference when changing audio files.

M-Track Hub is an excellent choice when you need to work with a variety of equipment. An affordable and universal solution for lovers of high-quality sound.

NuForce Icon HDP

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

95%

buyers recommend this product

The device is made in a durable metal case. But thanks to the remote power supply, the device remains compact and light weight. USB 2.0 support ensures stable audio reception at resolutions up to 24 bit/96 kHz.

The converter can be powered using an AC adapter or batteries. In addition to the USB port, the rear panel of the device has S/PDIF outputs in coaxial and optical modes, as well as an HDP connector, which allows you to connect almost any audio equipment.

Advantages:

compactness;
long work;
versatility;
high quality sound.

Flaws:

no cables included.

NuForce Icon HDP can be used as a desktop or portable system. Compact and multifunctional solution for working with various digital and audio equipment.

AudioQuest DragonFly Black

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

93%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The model is characterized by low energy consumption and compatibility with a large number of devices. To work with a personal computer, no special software installation is required. And the Microchip MX microcontroller provides fast connection with smartphones and tablets for iOS and Android.

The device uses minimum phase filters to produce clear and natural sound. The DAC is capable of working with all music formats, including MP3 and WAV.

Advantages:

energy saving;
analog volume control;
high-quality sound;
asynchronous signal transmission.

Flaws:

tight 3.5 mm connector.

DragonFly will be an excellent purchase for listening to music or other audio files using a smartphone, tablet or PC.

Digital broadcast standards

There are four main standards for digital transmission of television signals, they differ in modulation and transmission frequency:

DVB-S and DVB-S2 – satellite broadcasting;
DVB-T and DVB-T2 – terrestrial broadcasting;
DVB-C and DVB-C2 – transmission in cable networks;
DVB-H and DVB-SH – terrestrial and satellite broadcasting for small portable gadgets, such as mobile phones or PDAs.

The delay in the introduction of digital broadcasting in Russia also has its good sides. Unlike many Western European countries, we are immediately introducing a more advanced digital signal encoding system. Compared to the old DVB-T compression system - MPEG2. Application of the advanced DVB-T2 standard with MPEG-4 stream compression. Provides additional information transmission in the same multiplex volume.

MPEG, as a compression method, is used to encode audiovisual information, including video and music. The first version was designated MPEG-1, later versions MPEG-2 and MPEG-4. The latter provides improved encoding performance. Only with the use of MPEG-4 is it possible to transmit high-definition television HDTV.

Different countries use different types of coding. For example, in Germany, as in most Western European countries that have previously embraced digital technologies. Television is broadcast in DVB-T format and MPEG-2 compression standard.

On August 1, 2021, NHK launched 8K television in Japan. The format has a resolution of 7680x4320 pixels, which is sixteen times clearer than the 1080p format.

Screen resolution

The DVB-T2 standard provides for broadcasting television programs in high definition HD (1920 × 1080 pixels) or medium definition SD (720 × 576). Multi-channel audio encoding with the advanced Dolby Digital standard.

Even the simplest TV set-top box for receiving T2 digital television can process a television signal in DVB-T2 and DVB-T formats, in other words, it shows us “T2 television”. More complex and more expensive set-top boxes can also process a DVB-C signal (display digital cable). They can also receive a signal from the Internet via IPTV, WebTV protocols (show video from the Internet).

Best Wireless DACs

Models of this type do not require special cables to connect to other devices. They can use a Wi-Fi network, Bluetooth modules and other connection methods. This makes wireless DACs self-contained and easy to use in a variety of environments.

Cambridge Audio DacMagic Plus

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

95%

buyers recommend this product

The model has a headphone output and a signal amplification function, which ensures comfortable listening to music regardless of environmental conditions. Three operating modes promote rapid phase changes for optimal sound.

The rear panel of the device contains a large number of connectors of various types. Among them are USB, RCA, XLR outputs. This allows you to connect not only portable devices, but also professional audio equipment to the DAC.

Advantages:

flexible setup;
sound amplification;
intelligent interpolation;
high quality conversion;
optional audio signal filtering.

Flaws:

heats up during operation.

Cambridge DacMagic Plus can be used with PCs, TVs, media players and other equipment. Support for all popular music formats makes this device truly versatile.

Arcam rBlink

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

95%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

Thanks to the presence of the aptX codec, the model transmits audio signals in quality close to the CD-Audio standard. Small dimensions and easy connection using Bluetooth technology ensure quick start-up of the device without preliminary setup.

The output frequency range is from 10 Hz to 20 kHz, the percentage of harmonic distortion is no more than 0.002%. High quality audio transmission is ensured by the use of specialized circuitry that guarantees a signal-to-noise ratio of about 106 dB.

Advantages:

three RCA ports;
high-quality sound;
stable signal;
ease of control;
compactness.

Flaws:

small number of exits.

Arcam rBlink can connect to a variety of equipment. Quick connection and control via a smartphone app make it one of the best portable DACs.

Audiolab M-DAC

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

90%

buyers recommend this product

The main features of the model are compactness and portability. The converter weighs only 28 grams and connects to third-party equipment using a Bluetooth module. The battery capacity is enough for 8 hours of continuous operation, charging time is 2 hours.

The output power of the amplifier is 30 mW, the maximum bit depth and sampling frequency are 32 bit/192 kHz. Additional features of the device include the function of receiving and sending calls, which is implemented thanks to the built-in microphone.

Advantages:

miniature dimensions and light weight;
long-term work in offline mode;
high resolution audio;
Headphone Amplifier.

Flaws:

low sensitivity of the remote control.

Audiolab M-DAC is worth purchasing for music lovers. The small size of the device and the signal amplification function make it comfortable to use anywhere.

iFi xDSD

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

88%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

One of the main features of the model is the high quality of wireless communication. Thanks to the use of the Bluetooth AAC codec, not only a stable connection with a smartphone or DAC is ensured, but also audio signal transmission without interference and distortion.

The converter housing is made of durable and pleasant to the touch magnesium-aluminum alloy. The device is not afraid of falls and has a stylish design. It is equipped with a 2200 mAh battery and is able to remember the settings, which guarantees long-term and comfortable operation.

Advantages:

filter switch;
status indication;
convenient control;
capacious battery;
high sound quality.

Flaws:

The settings may be lost after switching off.

iFi xDSD will be useful if you need to transmit high-quality sound for a long time. An excellent choice for long country trips or intensive use.

How many channels does a digital TV set-top box catch?

You know what channels are available on Russian digital television, but you are wondering what you can see, what channels your digital TV set-top box will pick up. An external receiver receives a TV signal via the DVB-T2 protocol from an antenna, and can only catch what is broadcast in the country's digital airspace. What channels are these? There are twenty television channels broadcast in Russia (not all towers are connected to 20 channels). Using manual and automatic search, the decoder will detect and then decode all digitized channels and route them to the television receiver.

You may be interested in: CETV coverage map

Scattering pictures

You are unable to receive digital images without problems and with high quality; the image crumbles into squares. Then, with a 99% probability, your TV or digital set-top box is not to blame for anything. Don't worry about how to find a "more sensitive" tuner. Just take care of the antenna:

Check the connections of the connectors.
Make fine adjustments to the antenna.
Raise the antenna a little higher.
For a passive antenna, supplement it with an amplifier (provided the signal is not noisy).

If it doesn’t help, change the antenna. This option is more correct and cheaper.

You may be interested in: How to install an antenna

Functions of digital set-top boxes

New models of tuners for T2 television are appearing very quickly, most of these tuners are quite reliable and cheap, their price at US exchange rates is approximately 15-17 dollars. An Internet search immediately leads to more expensive models with the same or worse characteristics. Therefore, you should not look for tuners in those stores that come first when searching on the Internet.

Set-top box with IPTV

They connect to the Internet via a WiFi adapter, which means your expenses may not be limited to the price of the tuner. If you want to use a tuner to watch video from the Internet, you will have to buy a WiFi adapter. There are high chances that the image from the IPTV signal will “slow down” or “jam” (The speed of your Internet connection may be to blame for this). True, IPTV television through tuners for terrestrial reception is not of interest to everyone; the vast majority of viewers only watch terrestrial television through a tuner for terrestrial television.

TV set-top box with RF modulator

The built-in RF modulator (RF-out) is not needed by all users. But it's useful for an older TV that doesn't have a video input, or is occupied by another TV source (like a DVD player).

Tuner with duplicate antenna output (LOOP)

This is useful for transmitting an antenna signal to multiple tuners. The signal from the antenna can be fed to one of the tuners, and from the antenna output of this tuner the same signal can be fed to another tuner. There are also inexpensive tuners without an antenna output. And there are tuners in which the LOOP output works very poorly, giving a weakened signal in the decimeter range.

Set-top box with external or internal power supply

The power supply of the set-top box can be external or internal. Both have their advantages. The general pattern is this: tuners with an external power supply receive a weak, noisy signal from the antenna a little better (less interference from the 220 V network). Set-top boxes with a built-in power supply are convenient to use, although for tuners with an external 5 Volt power supply, you can use the USB output of the TV instead of the power supply. Then the tuner turns itself off when the TV is turned off.

Tuner with the ability to transmit power to an antenna

A very useful option if your area has a weak terrestrial signal and the antenna needs an amplifier. This model of set-top box is ideal for a summer residence; with its help you can supply power to the antenna for the built-in amplifier and receive all 20 TV channels. Some tuners do not have this function (extremely rare). This may not be written in the advertising description of the tuner in a store or on a website on the Internet.

Set-top box with USB input

It provides playback of video recordings from removable media and, in many cases, recording of TV shows on it (an interesting film or sporting event or something else). Some people will find this very useful, but others will find it unimportant.

USB (Universal Serial Bus) - “universal serial bus” - an interface for connecting peripheral devices.

If it is possible to record a television program on a flash drive inserted into a USB connector, then the characteristics of such a set-top box for the TV will include the “PVR, time-shift” functions. Explanation of the abbreviation PVR (personal video recorder) )

translated means “personal video recorder”, and time shift is “time shift”, i.e. the opportunity to watch a TV show later.

Which digital-to-analog converter is better to buy?

Such a device is designed to convert a digital signal to analog and is used to improve sound quality. When choosing a DAC, you should pay attention to a number of important criteria. These include the number and type of digital and analog outputs, sampling frequency, bit depth, and cost.

Audio conversion will require connecting at least two devices. Digital sources are connected to the DAC using a USB connector, while analog sources are connected via an RCA port. To work in conjunction with an audio system designed for a balanced connection, balanced outputs are required.

All modern converters support signals with a resolution of 44.1 kHz/16 bits, which is the same as CDs. Determining the sampling frequency and bit depth depends on the format of the audio files that you plan to play. For pulse code modulation, this value should correspond to 192 kHz/24 bit on the USB input.

Additional features of devices that affect the quality of the output sound and ease of use include output signal adjustment, support for wireless data transfer, remote control, the ability to connect headphones, etc.

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Choice

You will have to choose a prefix for a long time and carefully so as not to miss the tuner’s useful properties. Or don’t pay extra for those features you don’t need.

It is very important that the digital television set-top box will hardly improve or worsen the reception of the digital television signal. All tuners are similar in their characteristics. First of all, the operational parameters of the set-top box are important. It is enough that the tuner is optimized to work with a TV signal in the DVB-T2 standard. All other functions of the receiver are at your request. The more expensive the set-top box, the more functions.

Questions are often discussed on forums about which tuner receives better and which is worse. Let them discuss! If the antenna signal is sufficient, all tuners display normally. With a weak signal, there are times when “one tuner is still showing, but the other is no longer showing.” In such a situation, it is better to go straight to the antenna rather than choosing which tuner is a little more sensitive.

Some set-top boxes can only be controlled from the remote control. The presence of buttons on the device itself is a positive point when choosing a set-top box.

There is an inconvenience that while watching TV, the viewer uses two remote controls at once, for the tuner and for the TV. You need to use the television remote control to turn the TV on and off, and use the tuner remote control to switch channels and change the volume.

TV viewers who really love comfort buy universal remote controls with a “learning” function. This remote control can simultaneously control both the TV and the tuner. Such a remote control can be trained so that only the channel, volume and mute buttons work, so as not to accidentally press “something wrong.”

Best High Bit DACs

Such models are characterized by a large number of output signal levels. High bit depth results in the output of the highest quality sound, close to the original source. Such converters are used for the most complex and multi-level processing of audio files.

Teac UD-503

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

The model is equipped with four digital filters for PCM and two for DSD. Thanks to a switchable upsampler, the sampling rate can be increased by 8 times. The device is equipped with a display, a wheel-shaped volume control and an input selector for easy operation with various equipment.

The harmonic distortion factor is 0.0015%. The widest frequency range from 5 Hz to 80 kHz is provided by the use of discrete buffer amplifiers. And the use of a digital isolator eliminates the penetration of noise from the signal source into the analog circuit.

Advantages:

Headphone Amplifier;
high sound quality;
remote control;
ease of setup;
signal filtering;
extreme range.

Flaws:

high price.

Teac UD-503 is equipped with coaxial, optical and linear inputs, so it can be used in conjunction with various devices. The optimal choice for both home and professional use.

Cozoy Takt Pro

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

97%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The main feature of the model is support for Time Domain Jitter Eliminator technology, which eliminates distortion and interference in the time domain of the signal. The ASIO driver makes the device compatible with a variety of professional digital workstations and sequencers.

Audio resolution is 32 Bit / 384 kHz, signal to noise ratio is 120 dB. The converter operates without a battery and does not require an additional power source. It is compatible with a variety of equipment: the package includes connecting cables for Apple devices, USB and microUSB cables.

Advantages:

high quality audio;
sound filtering;
durable body;
versatility;
affordable price.

Flaws:

high energy consumption.

Cozoy Takt Pro is used for the highest quality digital signal conversion. Portability and power directly from the connected device make the DAC easy to use in any situation.

Audio-GD NFB-11

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

95%

buyers recommend this product

The model has an asynchronous USB interface, coaxial and optical connectors. The converter uses resistive matrix technology to ensure processing accuracy and stable signal. Noise reduction system ensures clear sound.

The sampling frequency is 384 kHz, bit depth is up to 32 bits. Thanks to the presence of a large number of jumpers, the user has access to convenient adjustment of the analog filter, which allows you to change the sound character of the audio file.

Advantages:

noise suppression;
compatibility with various devices;
sound amplification;
signal filtering;
R-2R matrix.

Flaws:

heating during operation.

Audio-GD NFB-11 can be used as a DAC or audio amplifier. An excellent choice for those who like to listen to music through headphones.