You might want to check with Comcast, because they may be taking you for a ride. The only type of cable you need a box to receive is digital cable. If you just want to watch regular analog standard definition cable, you do not need a cable box. Eventually all cable will go digital, but that won’t happen for a few years. In the meantime, the EyeTV works just like the “cable ready” TVs that have been sold for the past 25 years — in other words, no box needed (unless you want high definition of HBO, Showtime, etc).

Hope this helps. Good luck.

I am quite familiar with computers, but not with TV interfaces. I was under the impression that I could plug my cable (from the wall) into this device, which did not work. For it to work via cable (instead of catching OTA signals via a antenna and booster) one must use a cable box. Apparently Comcast doesn’t allow boxes they don’t charge you for, so I can’t use a box without giving Comcast more of my money. The antenna and the booster add a hundred bucks (to do it right) to the cost of setting this up. I know I lack the technical knowledge to fully understand how to get the most out of this product, but Elgato needs to explain more fully just how to use it. However, they don’t even respond to emails . . .

Thanks for listening.

Steve