Help! How to get Boston local channels in HD from Direct Tv

DirecTV does not currently offer local programming in HD (though you can find CBS at channel 80 or 81). CBS was added right before the last Superbowl and has remained in place. The only HD content provided by DirecTV is CBS, HD Net, HD Net Movies, ESPN HD (sort of), DISCHD, plus Showtime and HBO if you subscribe to premium services.

Remember, not all content broadcast on CBS 80/81 will be true HD. Some of it will be stretched. All of it, however, comes through as 1080i, so you cannot stretch the image as you would a standard NTSC signal (but it will already be stretched for you).

I forgot to mention, if you want to get ABC/NBC/etc. in HD, you'll need a good UHF antenna. It can be plugged right into the HD receiver you already have, and it doesn't necessarily have to be outside.

Maggie, if you ever come back, a reply would be appreciated. Thanks and good luck.

cjhsa, thanks for your input, I bought a HD antenna but it doesn't seem to work. I have all the channels you mentioned....so what I pick up from you is that a good UHF antenna should let me pick up ABC etc in HD...Maybe I bought the wrong one. Although it may have to put outside on the roof as the dish had to be way high because of the trees! Thanks for your input....I appreciate it.