Tivax STB-T8 Digital TV Converter Box Reviews (DTV)

The Tivax STB-T8 has been upgrade to include S Video Output and is now being sold as the Tivax STB-T12.

Product Details: Today we will be taking a look at the Tivax STB-T8 converter box which is an updated version of the Tivax STB-T9 converter box. The new version is exactly the same as the old one except for that it has been updated to include analog pass-through. This digital TV converter box is exactly the same as the its little sister when is comes to picture quality. The picture quality of this digital TV converter box is better than most converter boxes and a lot better than analog broadcast quality. The quality that you get with this box is slightly below DVD quality. The sound quality that you get with this converter box is also very good. It is similar to what you can expect with most other boxes on the market. This converter box can be purchased online for $55-$65 depending on the timing and place of purchase. It is available almost exclusively online.

The Tivax stb-t8 provides users with an above average programming guide that shows upcoming shows for each channel It also allows users to manually set each digital channel or scan for all channels. It also comes with an on screen signal meter to help with manual channel setup. Finally, this converter box has the ever elusive analog pass-through that everybody so badly wants their converter box to be equipped with.

This converter box rates near the top due to its high quality picture and sound. It is also rated very highly because it is one of only a few that comes with analog pass-through. The Tivax STB-T8 is a great converter box and a fine upgrade from the older Tivax STB-T9.

Tivax STB-T8 Features & Specs - Tivax STB-T8 Owners Manual

Analog Pass-Through
V-Chip Lock Parental Control Setting
Configurable Closed Captioning
Electronic Program Guide
On Box Buttons
On Screen Signal Strength Meter
Smart Antenna Port (unable to confirm)
Energy Star Compliant
English, French, and Spanish Language Support
Compact Size
75 ohm Connector
6.3”W x 1.8”D x 8.7”H (Approximate)

What Is Included With Your Purchase?

Tivax STB-T8 Converter Box
Tivax STB-T8 Remote Control
Remote Control Batteries
RF Cable
AV Cable

Craig CVD508 Digital TV Converter Box Reviews (DTV)

Product Details: The Craig CVD508 converter box is a government certified converter box that has been approved for use with the governments $40 off coupon. It is not considered a top of the line converter box and is not price out as such. This converter box can be had for $40 which makes it free after using your government coupon. Top boxes to consider that are a bit more expensive include the Dish Network DTVPal Plus. This box doesn't come with the best in industry picture or sound quality but it gets the job done and is an upgrade from what you have come to expect with analog television.

The Craig CVD-508 had composite video and audio jacks. It comes with a remote control that is NOT universal. It has adjustable closed captioning and parental control settings available. It also comes with a sleep timer so that it will automatically shut off at the set time. This converter box also comes with a program guide that provides information about upcoming and currents shows for each channel. One key feature that makes the Craig CVD508 a good buy is its analog pass-through function that allows you to get channels that continue to broadcast in analog. This TV converter box also comes with language support for Spanish, French, and English.

As stated before, the Craig CVD508 is not a top rated converter box but it will certainly get the job done. It comes with the most vital function, analog pass-through, and it is also very reasonably priced at $40. This is a converter box that we do recommend. One complaint about this box is that the remote control is not very good and some of them seem to be faulty. If you get a remote that doesn't work be sure to call right away and setup an exchange. Also if you experience any reception problems it is not likely a converter box issue but rather a sign that you need an HDTV antenna.

Craig CVD508 Features & Specs - Craig CVD508 Owners Manual

Analog Pass-Through
V-Chip Lock Parental Control Setting
Configurable Closed Captioning
Electronic Program Guide
Sleep Timer
Multi-Language Support

What Is Included With Your Purchase?

Craig CVD508 Converter Box
Remote Control

Jupiter Jack Review - Is Jupiter Jack Legit Or A Scam?

What Is The Jupiter Jack?

The Jupiter Jack is a very small cell phone accessory that is designed to turn your car radio into a wireless speaker system for your cell phone. With the Jupiter Jack you can setup your radio so that it transmits all cell phone calls through your car speakers. All you have to do is hook the Jupiter Jack up to your phone and set your radio on the proper station and you are ready to go. When a phone call comes in you simply hit the answer button on your phone and begin talking out loud. The person calling you will be able to hear you and when they respond you will hear them through your car stereo speakers. The Jupiter Jack allows drivers to talk on their cell phones without having to hold their phone, deal with the wires of a hands free set, or even mess around with a silly blue tooth device that may not fit properly in their ear. With states such as California outlawing cell phone use while driving and others considering it the Jupiter Jack could be a good investment for you. Currently you can get the Jupiter Jack for $10.00 plus shipping and handling. As an added bonus you can get the dashboard mount for free or a second Jupiter Jack for free (you do pay separate shipping and handling of $6.99 for each item). The dashboard mount allows you to quickly and easily mount your cell phone and Jupiter Jack for quick and easy access while driving.

Does The Jupiter Jack Really Work?

Come on, are you really doubting whether an as seen on TV product endorsed by Pitchmen and Billy Mays works???

From the information that we have gathered we have concluded that the Jupiter Jack does work although not without flaw. While not the most robust or high tech it does do what is says it does however we have seen some negative comments regarding it. In the past the issue was related to the Jupiter Jack only having one radio frequency option (we were unable to confirm whether this was actually true but complaints made us believe that it was). If this was a problem it won't be anymore and we called Jupiter Jack personally to confirm this. Jupiter Jacks from the company now come equipped with the ability to be set on several of different frequencies so that you can be sure to find a frequency that doesn't already have a local radio station broadcasting on.

What Frequencies Can The Jupiter Jack Be Broadcasted On?

It is our understanding that new Jupiter Jacks comes with the ability to be set between 88.3 and 89.3 and also between 99.3 and 101.3. This range of frequencies gives all Jupiter Jack users plenty of options and allows them to find an unused frequency that will provide for clear reception and great sound quality. We have not gotten a hold of a Jupiter Jack to confirm this yet but this is how we understood the explanation from the Jupiter Jack customer service rep we called.

Are There Any Added Bonuses To The Jupiter Jack?

Some customers have reported that they have been able to use the Jupiter Jack with their MP3 players. Users have been able to hook their Jupiter Jack into their MP3 players and hear music through their car speaker system. This function is not guaranteed or advertised by Jupiter Jack but could be an added bonus for those that have a compatible MP3 player.

What Is the Jupiter Jack Return Policy?

Again, we personally called Jupiter Jack and were told that their return policy includes a 30 day money back guarantee. They stated that you can return the Jupiter Jack for any reason within 30 days and get a refund (minus shipping and handling). Of course you need to return the Jupiter Jack in working condition with its original packaging. If you think that you may want to return it be sure to keep everything until you have made a final decision. Remember usually when you return any item you purchased online you aren't refunded the shipping and handling costs.

How Is Jupiter Jack Customer Service?

When we personally called the Jupiter Jack customer service center in order to have them clarify a few things for our review they did a great job. The wait time was about 1 minute and we spoke to a customer service representative that answered all of our questions quickly. She was be very knowledgeable, easy to understand, and didn't have any problems answering our questions.

Are There Any Drawbacks To The Jupiter Jack?

One negative we have been able to come up is the inability to have a private conversation with the Jupiter Jack. If you use the Jupiter Jack anyone and everyone in your car will be able to hear the conversation. We have also found out that Jupiter Jack doesn't work with "all" cell phones and rather only works with "most" phones. Other issues including being over billed and the Jupiter Jack not providing good sound quality. Another negative is that they don't give you an order total before you submit thee order. When doing an order you need to be sure you haven't messed anything up before submitting it or you will end up being charged extra and they will not refund the shipping charges once a product is mailed out.

The Jupiter Jack Bottom Line

The Jupiter Jack is not the most robust or high tech device but it does fill an interesting niche area and is a one of a kind product. The best thing about the Jupiter Jack is it's cheap price of only $10 and its 30-day money back guarantee. The Jupiter Jack however seems to have gotten some negative comments below and therefore we are recommending it with caution.

Dish Network Satellite TV Review: Is DishNetwork Legit Or A Scam?

As of today there are only two major satellite TV providers in the United States. We have already taken a look at Direct TV (DIRECTV) and today will be taking a look at the other one which is Dish Network (DishNetwork). If you are interested in getting satellite TV you will have to choose between these two companies. The former is the largest of these two with 18 million subscribers while Dish Network has roughly 13 million subscribers. Both offer similar services with slight differences that often cause people to favor one over the other.

If you are interested in getting satellite television you can see our review of Dish Network below and also check out our Direct TV review.

If you can't make a decision between the two check out our Direct TV & Dish Network Comparison Chart.

What Is Dish Network?

Dish Network is a nationwide company that providers television viewers with paid satellite television services. With over 13 million subscribers it is the second largest satellite TV provider in the United States.

What Type Of Picture Quality Do Dish Network subscribers get?

Dish Network broadcasts all of its channels with a high quality digital signal. Digital television signaling is the latest technology and having all digital means that you get the best picture quality available. Dish Network also has a large number of HD channels for those that want an upgrade over standard digital.

How Much Does Dish Network Cost?

Dish Network is slightly cheaper than Direct TV for basic packages but can end up being more expensive if you are looking for a bunch of add-ons to a standard viewing packages. Dish Network packages start at around $25 per month for just over 55 channels and go up to as much as $100 for a near 300 channel package. It is however important to note that you can get quite a large discount for the first 6-12 months if you shop around for the current new customers specials.

How Many HD Channels Does Dish Network Have?

Dish Network is slightly behind Direct TV in regards to HD channels. Despite being behind its rival DishNetwork is still ahead of all cable companies. Dish Network boasts a network of around 80 HD channels.

How Does Dish network Programming Options Compare To Other Services?

Dish Network doesn't have any exclusive packages like Direct TV but they are known for having a large number of international channels, quite a bit more than Direct TV in fact. With Dish Network you can choose a cheap package that includes around 55 channels or you can pay a lot more and get around 300 channels. One difference between the two is that Dish Network offers a lot of flexibility in packages. For example, they have two more standard packages than Direct TV and you can also choose whether you want to pay for local channels or not.

What Equipment Is Required For Dish Network And How Much Does It Cost?

In order to become a Dish network subscriber you will need a satellite dish and satellite receivers. You only need one dish but you will need a receiver for each room that you want to watch TV. Usually Dish Network is running some sort of special that allows customers to get free equipment and installation. This special however will require a 12-24 months service agreement. If you want to subscribe on a month-to-month basis you can but you will have to pay several hundred dollars for equipment and installation. You will also have to pay extra if you want HD or DVR because you will need more equipment for that.

Does Dish Network Require Subscribers To Sign A Lengthy Contract?

No, Dish Network does not require a contract but equipment and installation will be expensive without a contract.

Does Dish Network Run A Credit Check On New Subscribers?

Yes, Dish Network service requires a certain credit score and credit history. Credit checks will be run for all new subscribers in order to determine eligibility.

Are There Any Red Flag Issues That Current Or Former Subscribers Have Ran Into With Dish Network?

As is standard with any service contract, subscribers should be aware that a large early termination fee will apply if you decide to cancel your service before the contract is up. Customers should be aware that it will be very difficult to get out of any contract and avoid a fee no matter what the circumstances are. There are some situations where you may be able to avoid or get a reduced fee but these are few and far between. If you are concerned about whether or not you will be able to finished out a contract you are about to sign be sure to figure out what situations will allow you to get out of your contract or if you can transfer Dish Network service if you move to a new address. Don't assume anything that you are told, be sure that you get anything that you are told in writing if it is not acknowledged within your service agreement.

Dish Network customer service is a little better than DIRECTV customer service because it is handled in-house rather than through an outsourcing company. Despite this you still need to be ready to deal with low paid, low energy, low enthusiasm workers. In most cases you will be able to get your issues resolved, it just might take several explanations and a bit (or a lot) of extra time. The Internet is flooded with tons of complaints against both satellite TV providers but the main reason is because only those that are upset go to the web to complain. Satisfied customers usually keep to themselves and enjoy their service. Out of 13 million subscribers there are actually a very small number of complaints. In some cases these complaints are justified and in others the customer is being an idiot. As you can imagine, when you have 13 million customers its hard to keep everyone happy.

If you are considering Dish Network for your television viewing needs we think that they are another good option. All satellite and cable providers have extremely similar packages but small differences can greatly influence your final decision. The only tip we have is to be sure to research all of your options before choosing a service so that you can be sure to be happy with your choice.

Satellite TV And Cable TV Comparision Chart

Below we have provided a comparison chart that lists the differences between satellite TV and cable TV. Each of these services has its own advantages and disadvantages. The chart below should help allow to you make a better decision about which service has the features you want and need. If you want more information feel free to check out our satellite TV and cable TV sections where we have reviewed Dish Network, Direct TV, and various cable providers.

Comparison	Satellite	Cable	Which Is Better?
Average Cost Per Month For 100 Channel Package	$30	$50	Satellite
Average Number Of HD Channels	130 channels	40 channels	Satellite
Access To Local Programming	Limited For An Extra Fee	Comes Standard	Cable
Total Programming Options	Lots Of Regional And Sports Choices	Lots Of Choices But Less Than Satellite	Satellite
Equipment	Satellite And Receiver	Digital Box	Cable
Geographical Availability	Anywhere In The World	Only Available Where Infrastructure Exists	Satellite
Use Obligations	Require Contracts	Month To Month	Cable
DVR Options	Must Buy DVR Box	Must Lease DVR Box	Satellite
Customer Service	Phone And Email Only	Phone, Email, And Walk-In	Cable
Interactive Controls	Program Guide, PPV, DVR,	Program Guide, DVR, Video On Demand	Even

*All Information Contained Within This Chart Is Deemed Reliable But Not Guaranteed Due To The Ever Changing Nature Of The Television Industry. We will however make an effort to make adjustments to this chart whenever cable or satellite providers change their standard features or packages.

Dish Network And Direct TV Comparison Chart (DishNetwork, DirecTV)

Below we have provided a comparison chart that lists the differences between Dish Network and Direct TV. These two companies are the largest and premier providers of satellite TV within the United States. For the most part they provide the same services but there are small differences that could make a big difference to individuals who are paying for the service. If you want more information feel free to check out our satellite TV and cable TV sections.

Comparison	Dish Network	Direct TV	Which Is Better?
Number Of Subscribers	Second Largest In The United States And Growing Rapidly	Largest In The United States W/ Over 18 Million Subscribers	N/A
Signal Technology	100% Digital	100% Digital	Push
Programming Options W/Costs	Dish Family - Over 55 Channels For $24.99/ Month	The Family Package - Over 50 Channels For $29.99/Month	Dish Network (But They Make Up For Lower Prices Here By Charging More For Add Ons)
	Classic Bronze 100 - Over 120 Channels for $39.99/Month	The Choice Package - Over 150 Channels For $55.99/Month
	Classic Bronze 100+ - Over 120 Channels + Local Sports Networks For $44.99/ Month	The Choice XTRA Package - Over 200 Channels For $60.99/Month
	Classic Silver 200 - Over 220 Channels For $52.99/Month	The Premier Package - Over 265 Channels For $109.99/Month
	Classic Gold 250 - Over 250 Channels For $62.99/Month
	America's "Everything Pak" - Over 290 Channels Including Several Premium Movie Channels For $102.98/Month
HDTV Channels	Claims Over 80 HD Channels	Claims Over 130 HD Channels	DirectTV
Exclusive Programming Options	More International Channels	NFL Sunday Ticket	N/A
Required Equipment	Satellite Dish And Receiver	Satellite Dish And Receiver	Push
Geographical Availability	Everywhere In the United States Except Columbus, Las Vegas, Memphis, Milwaukee, and Baltimore	Everywhere In The United States Except Albuquerque, Oklahoma City, Honolulu, And Grand Rapids	Push
Contract/Use Obligations	Month-to-Month, You Can Get Free Equipment And Installation If You Agree To A Contract (Usually 12-18 Months)	Requires A Contract Of 12-24 Months That Usually Includes Free Equipment And Installation	Dish Network
Customer Services	In-House, Available 24 Hours, 7 Day Per Week By Email, Chat, Or Phone (Phone Hours Limited)	Outsourced, Available 24 hours, 7 Day Per Week By Email Or Phone (Phone Hours Limited)	Dish Network
Warranty	Ranges From 12 Months To Lifetime	12 Months	Dish Network
Specials	Always Has Extremely Aggressive Specials For New Subscribers	Always Has Aggressive Specials To Attract New Subscribers	Push

*All Information Contained Within This Chart Is Deemed Reliable But Not Guaranteed Due To The Ever Changing Nature Of The Television Industry. We will however make an effort to make adjustments to this chart whenever cable or satellite providers change their standard features or packages.

DIRECTV Satellite TV Review - Is Direct TV Legit Or A Scam?

Currently there are only two major satellite TV providers in the United States, Direct TV (DIRECTV) and Dish Network (DishNetwork). If you are interested in getting satellite TV then you will need to choose between these two providers. The largest of these two is Direct TV with over 18 million subscribers and availability in just about every city in the United States. Direct TV and Dish Network have been in fierce competition for years but recently Direct TV has been able to widen it's market share gap on Dish Network.

If you are interested in getting satellite television you can see our review of Direct TV below and also check out our Dish Network review.

If you can't make a decision between the two check out our Direct TV & Dish Network Comparison Chart.

The review below first goes over a few general questions about the services available through Direct TV and then addresses a few red flag issues.

What Is DirectTV?

Direct TV is a company that provides television viewers with a paid satellite TV service. With over 18 million subscribers and the most HD channels Direct TV is the premier satellite TV provider in the United States.

What Type Of Picture Quality Do Direct TV subscribers get?

Direct TV broadcasts all channels in digital which means that you get the best picture quality available. Direct TV also has the most HD channels which allows you to get an even better picture in case standard digital TV is not good enough for you.

How Much Does Direct TV Cost?

Direct TV is slightly more expensive than Dish Network but is often cheaper than cable TV. Packages from Direct TV range from around $30 per month for 50 channels to as much as $100 per month for over 250 channels. For most of these packages you can get a new subscriber special that cuts the price significantly for the first 6-12 months.

How Many HD Channels Does Direct TV Have?

Currently DirectTV boasts the largest number of HD channels in the television industry at around 130.

How Does Direct TV Programming Options Compare To Other Services?

Direct TV has several exclusive packages that can only be purchased through their company. They also have the largest selection of sports channels to choose from. These channels includes NHL Center Ice, NBA League Pass, and MLB Extra Innings, plus much more. One great thing about Direct TV is that you can choose inexpensive packages that include as little as 50 channels or if you want it all you can pay more and get over 250 channels.

Does Direct TV Have Any Special Exclusive Channels?

Direct TV is the exclusive provider for NFL Sunday Ticket, NCAA Mega March Madness, and Nascar HotPass. All of these are separate from standard packages and are available for an extra fee. NFL Sunday Ticket is great because it gives subscribers access to all NFL games during the season.

What Equipment Is Required For Direct TV And How Much Does It Cost?

In order to get DirecTV satellite television subscribers need a satellite dish and a receiver for each room where they want to watch TV. In most cases new customers can get all of the equipment for free by agreeing to a 12-24 month contract. Usually this also includes free installation. If you do not get a special it could cost you several hundred dollars for equipment and installation. If you want to upgrade to an HD receiver or DVR then you might have to pay a couple hundred dollars. In most cases you can find specials that include one or both of these for free after a mail-in rebate.

Does Direct TV Require Subscribers To Sign A Lengthy Contract?

Direct TV requires all subscribers to agree to a service contract between 12-24 months.

Does Direct TV Run A Credit Check On New Subscribers?

Yes, Direct TV has a fairly strict policy regarding who can be accepted for a service contract. Credit checks are ran on all new subscribers before they are accepted.

Are There Any Red Flag Issues That Current Or Former Subscribers Have Ran Into With Direct TV?

All Direct TV customers should be aware that there will be a early termination fee if you decide to cancel your service before your contract is up. One thing that we have noticed is that some customers seemed to have though that they would be able to easily get out of their contract if they moved. Getting out of any contact with Direct TV is going to be difficult and everyone should be careful before agreeing to a long service contract. If you are concerned that you may be moving to an area where Direct TV isn't available you need to check out the terms of the contract before you sign it. If it doesn't say that you can get out of your contract in the contract then don't count on it. Don't count on it even if an uninformed customer service rep told you that you could get out of your contract if you moved. The only thing you can count on it what is written in your contract.

Another issue to check out is whether you have a clear view of the southern sky. If you do not then you shouldn't even bother getting satellite TV. This is a requirement for getting a good signal with any satellite TV provider. Without a good signal you will get bad reception and at times you may get no reception at all.

If you get Direct TV you need to be ready to deal with customer service agents that aren't not the most intelligent people on the planet. If you have any issues and have to call customer service you should be able to get your problems worked out but it may take a bit longer than it should because you may get an incompetent rep on the phone. In general Direct TV does a good job of dealing with most customer service issues. You however will see a ton of complaints on the Internet, partially because some people are idiots, partially because no company is perfect (Yes, Direct TV does make mistakes and has flaws in their system), and partially because they have over 18 million subscribers and there is no way you can keep everyone happy.

If you would like to purchase directv we think that it would be a pretty good choice. It pretty much boils down to the small things. All satellite and cable providers have similar customer service and reliability but each one of them has small variations in the channels, HD packages, and DVR features that are available. It just a matter of deciding exactly what you want. If

Satellite TV Providers Guide: Direct TV, Dish Network

Do you have digital or analog cable and want to make a change? Are you looking to get satellite TV as a replacement? Are you interested in switching but don't know if it is a good idea or what satellite TV provider to select?

If you answered yes to all or any of these questions then you have found the right place. Below you will find several links that will provide you with the information that you are looking for regarding satellite TV. The information below includes a comparison of cable and satellite TV along with a review of the two major satellite television providers, Dish Network and DirecTV.
However, before we get to the links here is a short word regarding satellite TV.

Satellite TV has seen a lot of technological advances over the past few years and as a result the number of subscribers has risen greatly. In a lot of ways satellite and cable TV are fairly similar but there are also differences that give each one its own advantages. Some advantages of satellite TV include price, availability, better picture and sound quality, more programming options, and more HDTV options. Some disadvantages of satellite TV as compared with cable TV include less access to local programming, more equipment needed, more complicated installation, and a greater potential for signal interference.

One of the major advantages discussed above is satellite TVs lower price. The cost for satellite TV is between $25-$30 for 100 channels while the average price for a comparable digital cable program is around $50. Besides being cheaper satellite television also provides a better picture and better sound quality because it is all digital while a lot of cable is still being broadcasted in analog (although in the next several years all cable companies will make the switch). Satellite TV also comes with significantly more HDTV channels (cabled is expected to catch up but is behind at this point).

One of the major disadvantages of satellite TV is its lack of local programming. Satellite TV doesn't provide as much access to local channels and getting them often requires paying an extra fee. Satellite TV also requires more complicated dish installation and more equipment. This use to be more of an issue in the past but these days you can get most of the equipment and installation done for free by signing a service contract. Finally, satellite television has the potential to go out during bad weather. Technology has limited this greatly but there is still a risk that you will lose your TV during a strong storm while there is virtually no chance of this happening with cable as long as your power doesn't go out.

There are two major Satellite TV providers (Dish Network and DirectTV) that are in a fierce battle for market share. The result is great prices and ongoing specials for consumer like you. Competition with the cable companies also helps keep satellite TV prices lower.

If you are considering getting satellite TV we recommend that you check out the pages below and carefully consider your options. Satellite TV has some great advantages and its advanced technology allow users to have a better viewing experience, get more channels, and pay less at the same time. We recommend satellite TV over cable but caution that it is not for everybody.

If you have any questions about the satellite TV information that we have provided please leave us a comment and we will do our best to answer your questions.

Satellite And Cable TV Comparison Chart

Direct TV And Dish Network Comparison Chart

Direct TV Satellite TV Review

Dish Network Satellite TV Review

Best / Top VoIP Service Providers: Residential & Business

If you are looking to get a VoIP telephone line then you have a pretty big decision ahead of you. With rapid advancements in VoIP technology there are some striking differences in both costs and features among the top VoIP providers and you need to be sure that you get one that matches with your needs and budget.

If you are looking to get VoIP service from one of the top providers available we recommend that you check out the list that we have provided below. The list below includes VoIP providers that are rated very highly per our research. It is my no means considered exhaustive and it may be in your best interest to also consider other VoIP providers that are not discussed here. If you are interested in more information on any of the companies we have written about below you can click on they hyperlink at the beginning of the writeup and it will take you to the full review.

Vonage: Vonage is one of the largest VoIP providers in the United States and is a pioneer company within the industry. Vonage is known for providing high voice quality and above average customer service (when compared to its competitors). Vonage comes with more features that most smaller VoIP provider but also costs a little bit more. In regards to large VoIP providers Vonage prices are extremely affordable. One great thing about Vonage is that it can be used with a traditional phone or directly through your computer with a softphone application. If you are serious about getting VoIP but want an extremely reliable service then Vonage may be for you.

Magic Jack: magicJack is an interesting VoIP service and is quite different than most others. Magic Jack comes as a very small USB device that you hook into your computer on one end and then into your phone on the other end. With Magic Jack you pay $19.95 per year for unlimited long and long distance calling. Magic Jack has run into some service and customer support issues as of late but honestly what can you expect for less than $1.70 per month. You get what you pay for and with Magic Jack it may not be perfect all of the time at such a cheap price.

Comcast Digital Voice: Although not technically a VoIP service Comcast Digital Voice is essentially the same. The only difference is that it runs on a dedicated server and is not transmitted over the public Internet. Comcast is one of the largest cable and Internet providers in the United States and is now consuming a huge portion of the land line telephone market. Comcast is known for providing reliable service but not for providing great customer service. With Comcast Digital Voice you will get a better deal that what you get with a traditional landline but it is also slightly more expensive than VoIP services such as Vonage. Comcast Digital Voice is a great choice for those that already subscribe to another Comcast service because it can quickly and easily be added to your account.

Time Warner Digital Phone: Time Warner Digital Phone is just like Comcast service in that it is not technically a VoIP service but is essentially the same thing. The only difference is that it is ran on a private dedicated Time Warner server. Time Warner Digital Phone is known for providing extremely high voice quality and extremely reliable service. Time Warner Digital Phone is slightly more expensive than both Vonage and Comcast services. There are equivalent alternatives that cost less than this service but it is still a cheap alternative to a regular landline.

Skype: Skype is one of the most widely known VoIP providers in the world. Skype is run exclusively through a software application and is not meant to be wired through a regular telephone. Skype not only provides VoIP services but is a standard chat service similar to Yahoo Messenger or AIM. With Skype you can make mostly free calls to other computers and calls to land lines and mobile phones for a fee. With Skype you can either get a monthly plan or you can purchase a set number of minutes at a time. Skype is an excellent service and one that we recommend to anyone who wants to get the cheapest deal out there but doesn't mind not having their calls not ring through a traditional phone.

Lingo: Lingo is an up and coming VoIP service provider that is slowly growing and capturing part of the VoIP market. Lingo, like most VoIP providers provides fairly decent voice quality and excellent prices. The reliability of Lingo may not be quite as good as that of some of the other service providers but they make up for it by offering their service at a lower price. From time to time Lingo offers extremely low introductory prices for new customers and usually their rates are slightly below Vonage rates.

Qwest: Qwest is another one of the big VoIP providers and provides it's service at an excellent low price. Qwest is known for having a reliable VoIP network and providing great voice quality. If you are looking for VoIP service from a large, trusted, and well known name then Qwest is a good option to consider. With Qwest there are options to bundle VoIP along with other services and in return realize substantial monthly savings.

What Is VoIP Phone Service? (Voice over Internet Protocol)

What Is VoIP?

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is a technology that routes voice traffic over IP networks. IP networks were first developed for data transmission but their popularity sparked the idea of using them for voice transmissions too. VoIP technology transfers voice data into digital signals and routes them through the IP network and then converts it back to a voice transmission on the other end. VoIP allows for calls directly from a PC, through a special VoIP phone, or through a traditional phone by using an adapter. Some others names for VoIP phone services include Voice over IP, Broadband Phone, Internet Phone Service, Digital Phone, and Internet Telephony.

What Are The Benefits Of VoIP?

The biggest benefit of getting VoIP telephone service is its extremely low cost. In most cases service providers charge a monthly fee that includes unlimited local and long distance calls and a less than average rate for international calls. It is also cheaper because there are currently no government regulatory fees associated with VoIP phones. Another great thing about VoIP service is that it can be taken anywhere. When you are making calls over the Internet it doesn't matter where you are as long as you have a broadband Internet connection and can access your VoIP software.

What Features Does VoIP Service Come With?

VoIP phones come with all of the usual feature that we have come to expect from traditional land line companies. This includes caller ID, call waiting, 3-way calling, conference calls, voicemail, call blocking, 411 directory assistance, last number re-dial, call forwarding, E911 service, and much more. VoIP also comes with several features that we are not use to seeing with traditional service. One neat feature is the ability to have your voice mails sent to you as an attachment through email. This is a pretty simple feature but creates and easy way to keep up with voicemail messages while checking your email.

What Are The Disadvantages of VoIP?

One disadvantage of VoIP service is a lack of 911 emergency services as compared to what you get with a standard land line. Luckily technological advancements have allowed for an E911 service that is comparable to what you get with a regular land line. Another disadvantage is the possibility of not being able to use your VoIP service when there is a power outage. In most cases this seems to be of little concern because nearly everybody has a cell phone that could be used if a power outage occurs.

What Equipment Is Needed For VoIP Service?

First and foremost you will need a broadband Internet connection. Beside that the only equipment that is usually needed in order to setup VoIP service is either an analog telephone adapter (ATA) or VoIP phone. All you have to do is hook up the ATA to your modem and telephone and then your VoIP phone line will be directly linked to your normal telephone. You will also need the VoIP software that will be supplied by your service provider if you want to use your computer for calls.

What Is The Difference Between Local, Long Distance,and International VoIP Calling?

In most cases these days you get free local and long distance calling with your VoIP service provider. Most, if not all VoIP providers charge for international calling but the rate in generally a lot cheaper than what you would expect to pay if you had a traditional land line.

VoIP Phone Service: Residential, Business, Telephony

Are you looking to make the switch to VoIP phone service or interested in seeing what this new technology is all about? Do you want to know how much it costs and if it is a good idea to switch from your traditional land line to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)?

If so then you have found the right place. Below you will find several links that will provide you with the information that you are looking for regarding VoIP technology, the best VoIP providers, VoIP service reviews, and more. However, before we get to the links here is a quick word regarding VoIP telephone services.

VoIP phone service has become increasingly popular over the past several years. VoIP service is a technology that allows voice communications to be routed over an IP network such as the Internet, through a gateway of sorts. It has been providing clients with service since 2004 and its popularity has increased rapidly primarily because it is a cheap alternative to traditional land line telephoney services.

Some advantages of VoIP services include its cost and portability. If you subscribe to a VoIP service you generally pay a small monthly fee and then get unlimited free calls. These calls usually include both local and long distance calls at no extra charge and only a small fee for international calls. As far as portability goes, with a VoIP system you can make calls anywhere as long as you have your internet phone or headset and can login to your VoIP account. Besides these advantages VoIP software also allows for most of the basic features that people are use to getting with a traditional land line.

Some of the disadvantages of VoIP service include service during power outages, emergency call capabilities, sound quality. With a traditional land line you can continue to use your phone during a power outage but with VoIP service this can't be done. You can continue to use your VoIP service as long as you have an Internet connection to your computer (if you are making direct computer calls) but once your modem dies you will be out of luck and not be able to make calls. As far as emergency calls go, with a VoIP service, there currently isn't a reliable way to trace calls to their immediate location in case the caller wasn't able to talk. This problem is currently being addressed and providers or hopeful that some sort of technology will be develop soon in order to eliminate this issue. The sound quality of most VoIP services is lower than that of an old school landline but sound quality is rapidly improving on VoIP networks as technological advances are made.

All of the VoIP service providers that we have reviewed are nationwide companies and are considered to be the best service providers out there. When trying to decide on a provider for your VoIP phone we highly recommend that you read our reviews and educate yourself on the quality of service, customer service, and sound quality of each provider in order to be sure you choose on that you will be happy with. Prices vary widely so it is also important to choose a provider that charges a reasonable price.

Some of the VoIP telephony service providers we will be taking a look at include magic Jack, Vonage, vocalocity, 8x8, Lingo, PhonePower, ITP, inTalk, Net2Phone, and many more.

If you have any questions about the VoIP information that we have provided please leave us a comment and we will do our best to answer your questions.

Magic Jack Phone Review - MagicJack Features

- Unlimited Local And Long Distance Calling For $19.95 Per Year
- Can Be Used Anywhere That A BroadBand Internet Connection Exists
- Bypass A Traditional Telephone And Make Calls Directly Through Your Computer
- Magic Jack's Own Proprietary VoIP Calling Network

- Simple And Automatic Installation
- Traditional Cord And Cordless Phone Compatible
- International Calling (Rates vary from $0.02 to over $1 per minute)
- Call Any Landline, Cell Phone, Or Other MagicJack User
- Free Directory Assistance
- Conference Calling
- Address Book
- Outlook Integration For 1 Click Calling
- Vista, Windows XP, And MAC Compatible
- Bluetooth Headset Compatible
- Caller ID
- Call Waiting
- VoiceMail
- Call Forwarding
- Emergency 911 Dialing

Zinwell ZAT-970A Digital TV Converter Box Reviews (DTV)

The Zinwell ZAT-970A has been reported to be one of the best TV converter boxes on the market. There have been little to no complaints regarding it. This converter box has been upgraded to the Zinwell ZAT-950A.

Product Details: Reports on the picture quality of the Zinwell ZAT-970A have shown that it is in the "2nd tier". This means that its picture quality is a step below that of the absolute top converter boxes but is still very good. Its picture quality is a significant upgrade from that of analog television.The sound quality of this converter box is just as good as the top boxes. When using this digital TV converter box you get crystal clear sound. This converter box sells for $50-$55 which is a very good buy. We highly recommend this converter box to everyone.

This converter box comes with an on screen program guide that provides show times and descriptions. This TV converter box also comes with scan for all channel tuning and adjustable closed captioning. The key feature on this digital TV converter box is that it does come with analog pass-through. This means that you will still be able to pick up lower power analog television stations. If you are experiencing any receptions problems with this or other converter boxes your best bet would be to get an antenna.

This DTV converter box is one of the best all around converter boxes on the market. It has a bunch of excellent features and sells at a great price. This box is one we highly recommend to all.

Zinwell ZAT-970A Features & Specs - Zinwell ZAT-970A Owners Manual

Analog Pass-Through
8 Event Timer
Configurable Closed Captioning
Electronic Program Guide
English, French, and Spanish Language Support

What Is Included With Your Purchase?
Zinwell ZAT-970A Converter Box
Remote Control