The DTV transition has nothing to do with cable or satellite.
However, if you do use an antenna there's some extra channels you get ( PBS World, etc), reception is perfect, there's no "ghosts" from signal reflecting off buildings, and you might just forget about cable.
Its true you need a strong signal for DTV to work, and tuners vary in sensitivity. Personally I had no problems with an indoor antenna. Also the digital signals here are all UHF and that penetrates better in urban areas; I couldn't receive the lower channels with an analog TV.
Re: maybe not?
However, if you do use an antenna there's some extra channels you get ( PBS World, etc), reception is perfect, there's no "ghosts" from signal reflecting off buildings, and you might just forget about cable.
Its true you need a strong signal for DTV to work, and tuners vary in sensitivity. Personally I had no problems with an indoor antenna. Also the digital signals here are all UHF and that penetrates better in urban areas; I couldn't receive the lower channels with an analog TV.