I have LG HDTV approx 5 yrs old. I live in apt complex that uses DIRECT TV (Senior TV).
I am told it's analog not digital (how can you tell?)
We have a cable but NO cable box. Is there a way to hook up either a VCR or DVR (pref DVR) to record and watch with a digital box (cable box).

Easy way to tell is hook it up directly to your newer digital flat screen TV.

Very few of them (and even then only the older ones) will have analog tuners. And if they don't (I doubt your TV has one)... they won't see it at all if its analog. In which case you need a digital converter box for it to work.

WHat you need to hook it up depends on what kind of VCR or DVR you have.

I've seen some with HDMI connectors.. but far more use component video.

First, all broadcasters were required to switch to digital a few years ago. If you have no settop box then you are probably using your TV's tuner. You would need a recorder that has a digital TV Tuner built in so you can program it to receive the from the Direct TV feed.

I have seen and some have it where the entire building recieves the same thing from a single source. It is broadcast the same as if recieved over the airwaves. The cable you refer to is just another delivery method (75 ohm) rather then split wire like the old old days.

Just hook it to your tv and you should get whatever they are giving out.