Samsung's DTB-H260F is a very functional HDTV receiver that comes at an attractive price. It won't wow you with high-end features, but the DTB-H260F does a competent job and offers plenty of value.

The DTB-H260F can decode all 18 ATSC (Advanced Television Systems Committee) broadcast formats, which include HDTV and standard-definition digital TV, to which all over-the-air broadcasters are scheduled to switch in 2009. When connected to an HD-ready TV, digital TV or digital computer monitor, the DTB-H260F will present a picture in your choice of 480i, 480p, 720p or 1,080i (but not 1,080p). Of course, this requires your TV or monitor to be compatible with the selected resolution.

In addition to decoding digital TV signals, the DTB-H260F sports a number of handy features to enhance you viewing experience. A simple-to-navigate electronic program guide (EPG) is available, and it can be presented in a full-screen view or minimized along the lower edge of the screen. The intuitive on-screen menu system is a breeze to operate, and it includes a signal-strength meter. Other useful features are a favorite channel memory, parental V-chip controls and a basic remote control.

The rear of the DTB-H260F is home to an HDMI output, a component video output, an S-video output and a composite video output. There is also an optical digital audio output for routing Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound audio and Dolby Digital 2.0 stereo (the native audio formats of digital TV and HDTV) to a home theater system and speakers, as well as an analog audio output.

While it lacks flashy features, the Samsung DTB-H260F offers competent performance and comes at a great price.


Pros: Great value, easy-to-use EPG, selectable resolution output
Cons: No 1,080p output, remote not universal