As TV enthusiasts already know, most over-the-air TV signals will be shut down early in 2009. Where does that leave Bridgewater residents? Not too badly off, according to local hobbyists. They say the new digital signals are fairly strong. Those with older TVs will need a converter box, and the government will pay $40 toward the cost of around $60.

The best converter box for local reception appears to be the Zenith DTT900. It handles the mountain echoes and reflections between here, Charlottesville and Richmond well. The best antennas for getting Charlottesville and Richmond signals are laid out here.

Update: In some other areas, big problems with reception are expected. Many viewers, it seems, will have to have outdoor antennas to receive quality signals.