Vcr/dvd combo recording problems

i recently got a vcr/dvd combo unit and it is new. apparently this new one does not come with a tv tuner or a coaxial input so i simply can not record tv which is what i want to do. the book even says i need an external tuner to record tv broadcasts. what exactly is this ''external tuner''? is it a digital-to-analog converter box? i need help on what i need to buy and what connections i need to do. also on a side note, i get cable on my tv from the wire on the wall. after Feb 17. nothing has changed so i guess i already had digital tv meaning i dont need to get a converter box to watch tv? do i have to get a converter box JUST to record from my vcr with no tv tuner? I have a Toshiba DVD/VCR Combo Player with out a tuner. I want to record tv shows but im unable to do so b/c i need an external tuner. I have cable but not a box it just comes out of the wall. I need to know what do I need to do inorder to solve this problem. Do I need to take it back and get one with a tuner included or what?

ag