Fact is, you may not get the sub-channels of the local stations if you have Cable (you’ll probably need a Digital TV set, or their box….most Cable companies put sub-channels on the Digital tier only).
Fact is, you WON’T get those local sub-channels from satellite at all.
Fact is, Cable systems that currently carry analog signals (which, right now, can be viewed on any standard NTSC TV set) don’t HAVE to carry any analog at all, beyond the local channels’ primary programming. And, they can shut down that local analog at any time, if they supply you with a minimal number of their converter boxes (you’ll need one per TV set, just like the over-the-air boxes).

If you subscribe to Satellite TV, they only provide some of the locals, and they don’t carry sub-channels. As for getting HDTV locals, you have to upgrade to new
receivers and (possibly) a new dish to get them. And, you will only get SOME locals in HDTV…usually ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX, but not PBS, CW, ION, etc

If you don’t get PBS in HDTV, you’ve probably wasted your money buying an HD set!

Don’t fall for the “Digital doesn’t work” line, either. It’s just a matter of having the correct antenna and wiring. Often, set top antennas will work…although you may need to put them on top of the credenza (or, even on the floor) to get a good signal. Your old VHF/UHF roof antenna will work fine. A small outdoor antenna under your house’s eaves will be all you need to buy in many instances. Proper antenna, good cables and connectors, good quality splitters, and (when absolutely necessary) proper amplifiers, are the key to excellent DTV reception of ALL your local stations.

Put Cable or Satellite “Premium” (Pay) TV on the big screen in the family room, if you want to pay for THAT programming. All your other sets will be just fine (and cost less) with your locals on an antenna.

Wanted to also mention the FCC’s http://www.dtv.gov for Frequently asked questions and DTV coverage maps.

I also donate my time over at http://www.dtvusaforum.com helping dtv transitioners with reception problems.

Here’s to hoping the transition to digital signals is a smooth one for everyone.