Cable Channels Without a Cable Subscription

[FrozenUSA]

For reasons I don't want to get into, I used to have Optimum TV and a cable box, but now I do not. I have a 42-inch LG 3D Smart TV that was purchased in 2012. I am looking for exactly the same cable channels I had with the cable box and Optimum subscription, but without all that. I found out that I can search automatically through my QAM tuner for the cable channels I want without a box (like Food Network, HGTV, FX, TBS, TNT, etc.) but I MUST have some sort of basic cable package from a company. Is this in fact true? How can I get all the cable channels I want without a subscription or a box because I am in a situation where (unless I move) I will NEVER have cable on my TV the traditional way again? Thanks in advance.

 

[nukemaster]

We will not help someone bypass or get illegal cable here.

You can look at alternatives like netflix/hulu plus to get some shows, movies or even using an antenna to get over the air TV

Again we will NOT help you steal cable.

 

[skit75]

@nukemaster - doesn't sound like he is trying to subvert any security. I read it as he is looking for other alternative solutions, of which there are many.

Maybe take a look at Roku's lineup. I hear good stuff but don't own one.

 

[Wolfshadw]

Don't know what your beef is with your cable company, but in answer to some of your questions:

1) Yes, you are required to have cable subscription in order to receive cable channels over your QAM tuner. Also on this, depending on your tiuner and your cable company, some of the channels you may receive now may not be available tomorrow and cable companies have started encrypting more and more channels.

2) You may be able to find much of your TV Channel line up through other means, cable tv web sites, local broadcasts, and other devices like the Roku, but a) I seriously doubt you'll find EVERY channel/program you're looking for and b) it's likely not going to be any cheaper (depending on the channel line-up you're willing to settle for).

-Wolf sends

 

[hang-the-9]

Many shows are available on Hulu or Netflix. You can also get an antenna if you are close enough to the broadcast towers to get HD over the air.