As Goes Best Buy, So Goes The Nation

Best Buy, the nation's largest consumer electronics chain says it has pulled all analog televisions off store shelves, replacing them with flat panel and high-definition screens. The true dawn of the digital age is nigh.

Beginning in February 2009, broadcasters plan to stop transmitting analog signals, although people with older sets can still get programming via special converter boxes, set-top box or direct satellite. More than 60 million U.S. households currently rely on an antennas or analog cable. Cable operators are required to guarantee their customers will receive broadcast channels until February 2012, after which point you either get with the program or wait it out in the dark.

Surprisingly, the government will be making available coupons that can be used to buy converter boxes. Best Buy will sell coupon-eligible converter boxes starting early next year as part of their no-Luddite-left-behind program. No word on Radio Shack's plans, but expect them to continue to stock their do-it-yourself television building kit.

Even though picture quality and signal strength is on the rise through digital, programming on a whole will still suck. Coming soon, the best looking worst shows.