The normal ways to get reception for your HDTV include direct reception through a satellite signal to your TV set, or through HDTV specific cable programming, or receiving HDTV signal over the air (OTA).
In case of receiving the signal OTA, it is important to use a powerful antenna that can catch the signal easily. Secondly, the direction of the antenna must be accurate in order to receive a clear broadcast. The antenna must also have compatibility to the local broadcasting tower in your area.
Also, a good quality set top box is key to receiving clear high definition audio and video data. Equally important is the quality of your high definition TV set. Furthermore, most people subscribe to extra channels through cable programming or via satellite. So the quality of reception will also depend upon the cable or satellite company that is broadcasting the programs.