The Hunt for CBS in the Concrete Jungle: A New Yorker's Guide (Without the Rude Taxi Drivers)
Ah, CBS. Home of your favorite shows, that random documentary about competitive pigeon racing you got sucked into at 2 am, and of course, the thrilling world of daytime television (judge Judy reruns, anyone?). But where, oh where, do you find this gem in the glorious, bewildering mess of channels that is New York City? Fear not, fellow couch potato adventurer, for I shall be your guide!
Facing the Channel Chaos: Cable vs. Antenna
First things first, are you rocking cable or braving the wild west of antenna reception?
Cable Cowboys: Relax, partner. CBS is most likely chilling on its usual channel, which is traditionally a nice, low number (think single digits) on most cable packages. But hey, stranger things have happened in this city (remember the Great Blackout of '77?). Do a quick channel surf to be sure, just in case your cable provider decided to spice things up.
Antenna All-Stars: High five for saving that dough! CBS is usually broadcast on a specific digital channel, which can vary depending on your location. Don't worry, it's not buried in some secret decoder ring territory. A quick scan with your digital tuner should bring up the glorious eagle eye of CBS.
Channel Catastrophe Averted! But Wait, There's More!
Just when you think you've conquered the channel chaos, New York throws you a curveball. Due to the sheer number of channels crammed into the city's airspace, CBS might not be on its usual channel 2 (yes, traditionally it's channel 2 in most places). Here's the thing: WCBS-TV, the CBS affiliate for New York City, actually broadcasts on digital channel 36. So, channel surf around the 30s, and there you'll find your CBS oasis.
Bonus Tip: Don't Be Afraid to Ask!
Hey, we've all been there. You're at your grandma's house, the remote looks like it belongs in a museum, and CBS is nowhere to be found. Don't be shy! Ask a friendly face (hopefully not a rude taxi driver) for help. New Yorkers might have a reputation for being fast-paced, but most are happy to lend a hand, especially when it comes to the all-important quest for CBS.
How To FAQs for the Discerning New York TV Viewer:
- How to find CBS on cable? Channel surf the low number channels (think single digits).
- How to find CBS with an antenna? Scan for digital channels using your TV's tuner. CBS is usually on channel 36 in New York City.
- How to survive a New York power outage and still watch CBS? Invest in a good battery-powered TV or streaming service (but seriously, stock up on some snacks too).
- How to convince your neighbor to lower the volume on their daytime TV? A plate of cookies and a genuine "Hey, how's it going?" can go a long way.
- How to deal with the existential dread that sets in after watching too many judge Judy reruns? Channel surf to a nature documentary about competitive pigeon racing. Trust me, it'll be a trip.
