New Televisions

[Misky]

I didn't really want to put this in "Technology" in case replies included technical words, but here goes. I need a new television. I don't want one that relies only on the internet, but I would like one that will let me access iplayer, and the Channel 4 one, and other channels like that if I want to. I still want to use my Humax freeview box as it has things on I've recorded and I record things most nights to watch during the week. I would still like to be able to do that. And use my DVD player. Can the new televisions use the freeview box (with the aerial plugged into it) and I would just move between the different things at "source"? I know most new teles have Freeview and other bits and bobs in, but the internet is not great where I live and I would much prefer to use an aerial. The set I have now does not have a hole to plug in a connection to the internet... If it is possible to buy a tele that will do what I want, do I just avoid getting a "smart" tele? Thanks for any help...

[bhg481]

iplayer needs the internet, some TVs will connect wirelessly, some need to be connected with a cable to the router. If you have a Humax box and a DVD player you will need a TV with at least 2 HDMI sockets.

[237SJ]

A smart TV will connect to your router for iplayer etc and still function via the aerial (routed through the Humax box as now) for the Freeview channels.

[Buenchico]

Catch-up services, such as iPlayer and All 4, AREN'T transmitted from terrestrial aerials. The ONLY way that you can access them is via the internet. So you'll definitely NEED a 'smart' TV (i.e. one that can connect to the internet). However, although you'll be accessing catch-up services over the internet, you'll still be receiving your regular channels via your aerial (either directly or via your Humax box).

Smart TVs don't have 'holes' to make their connection online; they simply pick up a wifi signal from your broadband router. Any modern telly is likely to have two (or more) HDMI input sockets, enabling you to connect both your Humax box and your DVD player to your TV set without any problems.

If you give us an idea of the size of the set you require, we'll be able to point you towards some suitable recommendations.

[Misky]

Thank you all - I didn't know whether "smart" televisions could still use the normal aerials as well. I'm probably looking at a 43" set, and had thought of getting a Polaroid one from Asda where they're being sold at a decent price at the minute but I looked at the spec and reviews, and I don't think I need the 4G version of anything. I don't need my television to actually listen to what I tell it. I'm really grateful for your replies, thank you.

[Buenchico]

If economy is really important, there's nowt wrong with a Polaroid TV set from Asda! Indeed, for a full HD set, the one you mention has to be considered something of a bargain:
https://groceries.asda.com/product/tv-accessories/polaroid-series-3-43-full-hd-smart-tv/1000139371612
I've got a Polaroid set from Asda myself and it meets my basic needs well enough.

However given that there's a well-reviewed 43" JVC model currently on offer for a few quid less, that's what I'd probably go for in your situation:
https://www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/tv-and-home-entertainment/televisions/televisions/jvc-lt-43c890-43-smart-4k-ultra-hd-hdr-led-tv-10188135-pdt.html

[Misky]

Thanks Chris - 4K not 4G - sorry. And thanks for the link. It's not so much the price is an issue but I don't see the point in paying for bells and whistles I won't use. The reviews for the JVC one make me think about spending a bit more but at least I now know what to look for. Your advice is much appreciated.

[Tuvok]

If your DVD etc only has scart/phono outputs, and the tv only has HDMI you can get an adapter to let you connect them - I did for my dvd recorder.

[Misky]

Thanks Tuvoc - I wouldn't have thought to check that.

[Misky]

TuvoK - sorry.

[Tuvok]

This is the one I bought

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/For-PS2-PS3-SKY-HDTV-1080P-Mini-RCA-Composite-CVBS-AV-to-HDMI-Converter-Adapter/283422982647?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649