I haven’t subscribed to cable TV in 20 years, and the Internet and broadband-fueled services like Netflix and Disney+ have provided more TV than one person could ever require. However, occasionally there are things that I wanted to watch that are only available on ‘regular’ TV, like certain sporting events, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and things like that. So a low-priced device to satisfy those specific needs is what I wanted and needed. Cue Amazon Basics’ Indoor Flat TV antenna. I couldn’t be happier. It’s like a whole universe of free content has suddenly been returned to my life. While I won't be subscribing ti TV Guide to keep track of when Murder She Wrote is on, it does make it a lot easier to watch daily news, and network programming.
Setting up the device was as simple as plugging it in, using the supplied coaxial cable, into the back of my 4K HDTV (make sure your TV has one, as my 7.1 surround sound bar has plenty of HDMI inputs but no coaxial ports), having the TV do a one-time scan for available channels, and BOOM, all finished. Flipping through channels is as easy as pressing the channel button on my TV remote control. The picture quality ranges from super sharp (typically the major networks) to VHS quality (random networks that pop up in the scan). I found a few football games that were crystal clear. It’s not 4K as far as I can tell, but a stable 1080p running at high framerate during sportscasts and regular 24fps during normal TV shows.
I can’t confirm the sound quality in regards to how many channels it separated into, as I am watching it on a TV without an amplifier, but the sound quality is fine regardless. You’d need to check what audio signal your local network channels broadcasts in to be sure.
In any case, we’re well past the days of rabbit ear antennas and trying to get the least snowy picture. I can’t believe this device is only $19.99. One of the best values on Amazon.
| Brand Name | Amazon Basics |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 11.7 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 12.12 x 4.33 x 0.06 inches |
| Item model number | DVB-T9088A |
| Color Name | White |
