ATSC Digital Converter Box with Recording and HDMI Output - HW130STB

Our review of the Mediasonic HW130STB finds it best suited for cord-cutters and owners of older TVs who need a simple, affordable way to receive over-the-air broadcasts and record shows. The biggest reason to buy is its combination of a reliable ATSC tuner and built-in recording functions that convert free digital broadcasts for use on analog and digital displays, including projectors and computer monitors. Setup is straightforward and the box adds modern outputs like HDMI 1080P while keeping analog pass-through for legacy devices.

Key Features

• ATSC Reception: Receives over-the-air digital broadcast and converts it to both analog and digital outputs so older TVs and projectors can show free HD channels.
• Recording Function: Real-time and scheduled recording to a USB-connected external hard drive lets users save shows for later playback.
• Multiple Outputs: HDMI 1080P plus composite and coaxial outputs provide flexible connections to modern and legacy displays.
• USB Multimedia Playback: Plays video, music and photos from a connected USB drive so the unit doubles as a simple media player.
• Convenience Features: Favorite channel list, parental control, closed caption and EPG make channel navigation and control easier for household use.
• Analog Pass-Through: Antenna out allows the original antenna signal to continue to another device without losing reception for other equipment.

Who It's For

This unit is ideal for people who want free broadcast TV on an older analog TV or a secondary display and for anyone who needs a low-cost way to record over-the-air programs without subscribing to a service. It works well for basic home setups, bedrooms, guest rooms, or garages where simplicity and affordability matter.

It is not a replacement for cable or satellite receivers and will not work with encrypted cable signals or services that require a provider set-top box. Users who need integrated streaming apps, long-term durability guarantees, or compatibility with encrypted cable systems should look elsewhere.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Simple setup and clear picture quality on HD broadcasts via HDMI 1080P.
• Recording and scheduled timer functions turn the box into a basic DVR with an external hard drive.
• Supports both digital and analog outputs, keeping older equipment usable.
• USB multimedia playback adds extra value as a basic media player.

Cons

• Recording requires a separate external hard drive (up to 2TB, MBR), and USB flash drives are not recommended.
• Some users report mixed durability and occasional signal issues after prolonged use.

Specifications

Brand	Mediasonic
Model	HW130STB
Tuner	ATSC over-the-air digital tuner
Recording	Real-time and scheduled recording to USB HDD (up to 2TB, MBR)
Outputs	HDMI 1080P, composite out, coaxial out
USB Functions	Playback of video, music, photo from USB drive
Extras	Favorite channel list, parental control, closed caption, EPG

Our Verdict

The Mediasonic HW130STB is a practical, cost-effective converter box for viewers who want free over-the-air HD on older displays and the ability to record programs without a subscription. It pairs essential tuner and DVR features with flexible outputs, making it a good value for secondary rooms and cord-cutters, though users should plan to attach a compatible external hard drive and be aware of occasional long-term reliability reports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an antenna?
Yes. An external over-the-air antenna is required to receive broadcast signals; this unit does not replace a cable box.

Can I record to any USB drive?
Recording requires a USB 2.0 or 3.0 external hard drive (2.5' or 3.5', up to 2TB, MBR). USB flash drives are not recommended.

Will this work with cable or provider boxes?
No. It is designed for unencrypted over-the-air ATSC signals and does not work with encrypted cable or provider set-top boxes.