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- Optional battery and DC power adaptors
- Compact size
- Good tuner
- Good video quality
- So-so picture quality
- Remote control is small
- Remote can't control other devices
- Programming guide very basic
In terms of performance, the Winegard RCDT09A is rather mundane, finishing in the middle of the pack in most regards. However, its ability to draw power from either an optional battery pack (*Est. $15) or an optional cigarette-lighter adapter (*Est. $15) is unique. That makes the RCDT09A an ideal choice for those who want a digital converter box for an RV or motor home, or for camping, tailgating or just watching some TV in the back yard. It's also the only converter that will let you use an older portable TV in an emergency if the electricity should go out. If you don't need or want portable operation, other digital TV converters, such as the Zenith DTT901 (Discontinued), are better performers and a touch cheaper.
There isn't extensive feedback on the Winegard RCDT09A, but what's there is pretty good. CNET has the most extensive review. The Winegard RCDT09A is also included in ConsumerReport.org's encyclopedic roundup of converters, though we wish the discussion were more complete. User discussion is more limited for this digital TV converter than for some other models, but a handful of reports can be read at Amazon.com.
Our Sources
1. CNET
CNET says that the Winegard RCDT09A "wouldn't be our first choice for a standard DTV converter box," but it lauds its added ability to be powered from batteries. Otherwise, performance and video quality are average, but the user guide is very basic, and the small remote can't control a TV.
Review: Winegard RCDT09A, Matthew Moskovciak, Sept. 30, 2009
The Winegard RCDT09A is among the 31 converters currently covered by ConsumerReports.org. Unfortunately, while other factors are briefly discussed, the only ratings are for picture quality.
Review: DTV Converter Box Guide, Editors of ConsumerReports.org, November 2008
3. Amazon.com
While there are only five reviews here of the Winegard RCDT09A, they are uniformly positive, with each awarding the digital TV converter 5 out of 5 stars. Only one reviewer directly reports on experiences on the road, and is very impressed.
Review: Winegard RCDT09A, Contributors to Amazon.com
