bgpz

I got the internet phone part from VoIP.ms - but there are many others that offer the.same kind of service, and take care of the technical faff for you (Which sounds like would be better for you). I think teksavvy also offers this, but have no idea about their price or service, and how it compares to others.

For digital TV, you've got lots of options. I use an antenna for the local stations (so nothing to do with the internet - its like freeview in the UK). You can watch lots of TV channels online (overseas ones are possible, other threads on this forum explain options) - I just connect my laptop to the TV with an HDMI lead and have been perfectly.happy with results to date. I don't watch much TV though.

Modem rental is only needed for the ultrafast service (the 25/10 that we have) - I believe its to do with the tech settings used to get these speeds. IIRC, the only modem that currently supports this is a Bell-branded one which is rental-only right now (but I believe TS is looking at this. Might be down to when Bell offer alternatives.

If you're happy with going for a lower speed, I believe you can use your own modem. Pretty sure it is explained on their website.