Go Back  (BETA) DVD Talk Forum > DVD Discussions > DVD & Home Theater Gear
Reload this Page >

Anyway to convert RF to composite?

Community
Search
DVD & Home Theater Gear Discuss DVD and Home Theater Equipment.

Anyway to convert RF to composite?

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 03-25-07, 03:34 PM
  #1  
Senior Member
Thread Starter
 
Join Date: Jul 2002
Posts: 565
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Anyway to convert RF to composite?

Hi. I was wondering if some could tell me if there is anything out there that converts RF to composite. The problem I am having is that I just received a dual tuner Tivo, but my analog cable box only has 1 RF output and without another source I wont be able to use the DT feature. I contacted my cable co. and they told me they could upgrade me to digital box with a 2 year commitment, but I really don't want to do that. That's why I am looking for a work around. Any info would be appreciated.
Old 03-25-07, 03:47 PM
  #2  
DVD Talk Hero
 
Join Date: Apr 1999
Location: Duluth, GA, USA
Posts: 37,797
Received 7 Likes on 7 Posts
I think you are looking for a RF modulator, which used to be found at local Radio Shack stores, but they are probably harder to find these days.
Old 03-25-07, 06:36 PM
  #3  
DVD Talk Hall of Fame
 
Join Date: Nov 2000
Location: On the banks of the Red Cedar
Posts: 9,864
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
You could try an RF splitter. Depending on how strong your signal is, you may find it acceptable.
Old 03-25-07, 10:42 PM
  #4  
DVD Talk Limited Edition
 
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Mpls, MN
Posts: 6,830
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
No, an RF DEmodulator. Also should be available at Rat Shack and other stores.
Old 03-25-07, 10:58 PM
  #5  
DVD Talk Hero
 
Join Date: Apr 1999
Location: Duluth, GA, USA
Posts: 37,797
Received 7 Likes on 7 Posts
I don't think you can easily buy a RF DEmodulator.

One other option is to put a VCR in between the cable box and the Tivo. Have the VCR tuned to channel 3 or 4, and it should automatically spit out the video/audio via its A/V composite output.
Old 03-25-07, 11:09 PM
  #6  
DVD Talk Limited Edition
 
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Mpls, MN
Posts: 6,830
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
You know, I should've said that. You are completely correct, Patman, these are not common, and are pricey. A VCR is the cheapest way to get one, far cheaper than a standalone demodulator, generally.

Although I think jon has the real correct answer. Probably could simply drop the cable box altogether and let the Tivo be the tuner for analog cable.
Old 03-26-07, 08:34 AM
  #7  
Senior Member
Thread Starter
 
Join Date: Jul 2002
Posts: 565
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Thanks for all your replies. I was going to go the VCR route, but I just found a 2-pack of Philips RF Demodulators at Overstock.com for $15. I thought I would give it a try for that price.
Old 03-26-07, 03:14 PM
  #8  
DVD Talk Hero
 
Join Date: Apr 1999
Location: Duluth, GA, USA
Posts: 37,797
Received 7 Likes on 7 Posts
If you bought this:

http://www.overstock.com/cgi-bin/d2....rod_id=2262677

Then that's what I initially suggested before I realized you wanted to go in reverse, in which case, the RF modulator will not do what you want it to do, and you'll need to put the VCR in between the cable box and the Tivo.
Old 03-26-07, 03:46 PM
  #9  
Senior Member
Thread Starter
 
Join Date: Jul 2002
Posts: 565
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
That is what I bought. I thought I could use it because it said Demodulator.
Old 03-28-07, 05:41 PM
  #10  
DVD Talk Limited Edition
 
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Mpls, MN
Posts: 6,830
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Overstock is not known for its accuracy, customer service or anything generally described as "good". They are cheap, though.
Old 03-31-07, 11:11 PM
  #11  
New Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
So, did you ever find an RF to composite cable that works? I need one as well and cant find one. Radio Shack does not have them.
Old 03-31-07, 11:39 PM
  #12  
DVD Talk Platinum Edition
 
Join Date: May 2001
Location: In my Home Theater- Foley, AL
Posts: 3,503
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
I've re-read your original post a couple of times and it appears that you have the following:

-Stand alone TIVO with dual tuners
-Cable box with only one RF (coax) type output

Correct???

Can you watch all of your cable channels without using the cable box???

If this is the case, then use a splitter connected to the coax cable straight from wall, to create two RF (coax) outputs. Feed both RF inputs on the TIVO and enjoy. The only negative could be that the cable box is required to receive premium channels. If this is the case, then the only solution is adding an additional cable box. A VCR and/or a demodulator will not fix this problem & allow you to watch/record two different premium channels.

What model TIVO and cable box do you have? If I knew that, I can give you an exact answer/possible solution.

Last edited by Sonicflood; 03-31-07 at 11:47 PM.
Old 04-02-07, 05:59 PM
  #13  
DVD Talk Limited Edition
 
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Mpls, MN
Posts: 6,830
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Originally Posted by wpz888
So, did you ever find an RF to composite cable that works? I need one as well and cant find one. Radio Shack does not have them.
Read the thread, answers given.

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is On
Trackbacks are Off
Pingbacks are Off
Refbacks are Off



Archive - Advertising - Cookie Policy - Privacy Statement - Terms of Service -

Copyright © 2024 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved. Use of this site indicates your consent to the Terms of Use.