It could cost consumers anywhere between R210 and R3 000 to join the digital TV revolution in South Africa.<\/p>\n
Consumers have two options when it comes to switching to digital TV: a set-top box that will convert the digital signal into an analog one, so an old analog set could be used; or the viewer could purchase a new digital television, which could set you back a few thousand rand.<\/p>\n
An entry-level box converter will retail for R700, according to department of communications estimates.<\/p>\n
An entry-level digital television, the 48cm Hisense, retails at Hi-Fi Corporation for R3 000 \u2013 more than four times the price of the entry-level analog television, a 37cm Wharfdale at R750.<\/p>\n
The department estimates that of the 7,5-million South African households with television sets, 4,5-million will not be bale to afford the R700 for the entry-level set-top box.<\/p>\n
It is proposing a 70% subsidy programme for the poorest five million households, which would see them forking out R210 for their set-top boxes.<\/p>\n
This proposed subsidy will cost the government R2,45-billion.<\/p>\n