;It is possible to use a new TV antenna with an older TV. However, you may need to purchase a converter box in order to make your older TV compatible with a modern TV antenna. The reason for this has to do with digital tuning.A digital tuner is a built-in TV element that enables a TV to receive digital signals, and since 2009, all over-the-air broadcasts — even free ones — have been digital. Therefore, in order to receive these broadcasts, you must have a TV with a tuner. The good news is, most TVs manufactured within the last decade or so have this technology.