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Old 03-21-2008, 09:19 PM
kbmuri's Avatar
kbmuri kbmuri is offline
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Join Date: May 2006
Location: Fort Wayne, IN
Posts: 590
Complaints:

The Zenith/Insignia (they're identical) have a really low audio output level (even at 100% volume setting). When watching them, if you switch to something else (OTA analog, cable, VCR/DVD, etc) the volume blasts if you forget to turn it down first.

The Zenith/Insignia does not pass-thru the antenna when powered off.

My Digitalstream makes a high-pitched whistle when powered off. It's subtle but you can't sleep in a silent room with it plugged in. Anybody else notice this?

The Digitalstream case is cheap plastic. The power-indicator LED is unattractive. The whole thing looks cheap.

The Philco does not have a volume control (you need two remotes to use it).

The Philco case is large and white-plastic gaudy (all the others are subtle and black). Plastic case is sturdier than Digitalstream but still not great.

The four I have (Zenith, Insignia, Digitalstream, Philco) are all made in China. Anybody have one that's NOT made in China?

Pros:
Zenith and Insignia are in sturdy metal boxes.
Zenith/Insignia have better reception.
Zenith/Insignia power-indicator LEDs are stylish.
Philco passes thru the antenna whether it's on or off.
Philco audio is at same level as other sources (no volume-control issues).
Digitalstream passes thru the antenna when off.
Digitalstream is physically very small (takes up least room).
Zenith/Insignia and Digitalstream have field-strength meters.
All of them have user-friendly (and similar) setup.

Of the four I have I like the Zenith best. Only better than Insignia because of the Zenith logo. I found it at Circuit City in Grand Rapids Michigan. I will try to find a Magnavox next. Wal-Mart maybe?

Wish I could find one labeled "Farnsworth"...
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