Are you tired of cluttered entertainment centers and expensive equipment rental fees from your cable provider? If you’re a Cox Communications customer, you might be wondering if you really need a cable box for every TV in your household. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on several factors, including your TV’s capabilities, the type of Cox service you subscribe to, and your personal viewing preferences.
Understanding Cox’s Equipment Requirements
Cox, like other cable providers, requires specific equipment to deliver their services to your home. The most common piece of equipment is the digital cable box, which is necessary to receive and decode the cable signal. However, with the advancement of technology, some TVs and devices are now capable of receiving and decoding the signal without the need for a separate cable box.
Cox’s Digital Cable Box Options
Cox offers several types of digital cable boxes, each with its own set of features and capabilities. The most common types of cable boxes are:
- Standard Digital Cable Box: This is the most basic type of cable box and is required for each TV that wants to receive Cox’s cable service.
- HD Digital Cable Box: This type of box is necessary for HDTVs and provides access to high-definition channels and On Demand content.
- DVR (Digital Video Recorder) Cable Box: This type of box allows you to record and playback TV shows and movies, as well as access to On Demand content and HD channels.
- Contour Box: This is Cox’s latest and most advanced cable box, which provides access to live TV, On Demand content, and streaming apps like Netflix and YouTube.
Do You Need a Cable Box for Every TV?
Now, to answer the million-dollar question: do you need a cable box for every TV in your household? The answer is no, but there are certain conditions that apply.
- If you have a Cox-compatible TV: If you have a TV that is compatible with Cox’s cable service, you may not need a separate cable box. Cox-compatible TVs have a built-in Cox cable tuner, which allows them to receive and decode the cable signal without the need for a separate box. However, this feature is not available on all TVs, and you’ll need to check your TV’s manual or manufacturer’s website to see if it’s compatible.
- If you’re using a streaming device: If you’re using a streaming device like Roku, Apple TV, or Google Chromecast, you may not need a separate cable box. These devices allow you to stream Cox’s content without the need for a cable box. However, you’ll still need to subscribe to Cox’s cable service and have a compatible TV or device.
- If you’re using Cox’s TV Everywhere app: Cox’s TV Everywhere app allows you to stream live TV and On Demand content on your mobile devices, tablets, and laptops. If you’re using this app, you won’t need a separate cable box for each TV. However, you’ll still need to have a compatible device and a Cox cable subscription.
When You’ll Need a Separate Cable Box
While there are scenarios where you might not need a separate cable box, there are also cases where you’ll need one for each TV:
- If you want to access HD channels: If you want to access high-definition channels, you’ll need an HD Digital Cable Box or a Contour Box. These boxes are necessary to receive and decode the HD signal.
- If you want to record TV shows and movies: If you want to record TV shows and movies, you’ll need a DVR Cable Box. This type of box allows you to record and playback content, as well as access to On Demand content and HD channels.
- If you have an older TV: If you have an older TV that’s not compatible with Cox’s cable service, you’ll need a separate cable box to receive and decode the signal.
The Cost of Cox’s Equipment Rental Fees
One of the main concerns for customers is the cost of Cox’s equipment rental fees. If you need a separate cable box for each TV, the rental fees can add up quickly. Here’s a breakdown of Cox’s equipment rental fees:
- Standard Digital Cable Box: $6.50 per month
- HD Digital Cable Box: $8.50 per month
- DVR Cable Box: $11.50 per month
- Contour Box: $11.50 per month
As you can see, the rental fees can add up quickly, especially if you have multiple TVs. However, Cox does offer a few options to reduce the cost:
- ** Bundle discounts**: Cox offers discounts when you bundle multiple services together, including TV, internet, and phone.
- Equipment purchase options: Cox allows you to purchase their equipment outright, which can save you money in the long run.
- Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): Cox’s BYOD program allows you to use your own compatible device instead of renting one from Cox.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while you may not need a separate cable box for every TV in your household, there are certain scenarios where you’ll need one. It’s essential to understand Cox’s equipment requirements and the type of service you subscribe to in order to make an informed decision. By considering the cost of equipment rental fees and the features you need, you can make the most of your Cox cable subscription.
Remember, if you’re unsure about the type of equipment you need or have questions about Cox’s services, it’s always best to contact their customer support team for assistance.
Do I need a Cox cable box for every TV in my home?
You don’t necessarily need a Cox cable box for every TV in your home. However, having one for each TV will provide you with the best viewing experience and access to all the features and channels you’re paying for. If you have multiple TVs, you can consider using a whole-home DVR system, which allows you to record and playback content on any TV in your home.
A whole-home DVR system would require a primary DVR box connected to your main TV, and then smaller units called “client” boxes connected to your other TVs. This setup allows you to access and control your DVR content from any TV, eliminating the need for separate cable boxes on each TV.
What are the benefits of having a Cox cable box on each TV?
Having a Cox cable box on each TV provides a few benefits. Firstly, you’ll have access to all the channels and features you’re paying for, including On Demand content, Pay-Per-View events, and premium channels like HBO or Showtime. You’ll also be able to record and playback shows on each individual TV, giving you more flexibility and control over your viewing experience.
Additionally, having a cable box on each TV eliminates the need to constantly switch inputs or hook up and unhook cables to watch different devices. This can simplify your viewing experience and reduce clutter. Plus, with a cable box on each TV, you can watch different channels or programs simultaneously, which can be convenient for families or households with multiple viewers.
Can I use a digital adapter instead of a Cox cable box?
Yes, Cox offers a digital adapter that can be used in place of a full-featured cable box. The digital adapter is a small device that converts digital signals to analog, allowing you to receive basic cable channels on a TV. However, it has limited features compared to a full cable box, and you won’t have access to On Demand content, premium channels, or DVR capabilities.
Keep in mind that the digital adapter is a more limited option and is best suited for secondary TVs that don’t need access to all the bells and whistles. If you want to get the most out of your Cox subscription, a full-featured cable box is still the way to go.
How much does a Cox cable box cost?
The cost of a Cox cable box varies depending on the type of box and the services you subscribe to. A standard HD cable box typically costs around $10-15 per month, while a DVR box can cost upwards of $20-25 per month. If you opt for a whole-home DVR system, the cost will depend on the number of TVs you need to connect.
It’s worth noting that Cox often offers promotions or bundles that can help reduce the cost of equipment rentals. Be sure to check with Cox for the most up-to-date pricing and promotions.
Can I buy my own Cox-approved cable box instead of renting one?
Yes, you can purchase a Cox-approved cable box instead of renting one from Cox. This can be a cost-effective option if you plan on keeping the box for an extended period. Cox has a list of approved devices on their website, and you can purchase them from authorized retailers or online marketplaces.
Before making a purchase, make sure to check that the device is compatible with Cox’s network and services. Additionally, you’ll still need to pay for the cable service itself, even if you own the equipment.
How do I set up a Cox cable box on my TV?
Setting up a Cox cable box on your TV is a relatively straightforward process. First, connect the cable box to your TV using an HDMI cable, then connect the box to your internet modem using an Ethernet cable. Next, power on the box and TV, and follow the on-screen instructions to activate the device.
You may need to activate the box by calling Cox or using their online activation tool. Once activated, you can set up your channel lineup, program your remote, and start enjoying your Cox cable service.
What if I have an older TV that only has analog inputs?
If you have an older TV that only has analog inputs, you may need a special type of cable box that can convert digital signals to analog. Cox offers a device called the “Digital Transport Adapter” that can perform this conversion, allowing you to receive basic cable channels on your older TV.
Keep in mind that the Digital Transport Adapter has limited features compared to a full-featured cable box, and you won’t have access to premium channels or On Demand content. However, it’s a good option if you want to breathe new life into an older TV.