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as a side note when i was looking into dumping cable tv and going with antenna i knew that the broadcast towers were over 60 miles away in 2 different directions
I knew that I would have to get a better antenna but I just wanted to test if I could get signal where I was so i got one of these crappy antennas for $30 and hooked it to my TV and pointed it out the window https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LYTS2RH
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I was surprised that I actually could pickup a number of stations so then I knew there was at least a possibility of getting good signal in my area if at least a couple stations came in ok with that piece of garbage... i mean fine well made professional 4K ready antenna...
After that I went through half a dozen antennas and a few amplifiers
I ended up as a last ditch effort I saw a 10foot RCA Full Sized antenna on Amazon Warehouse as a Used Return for $34 so I said crap what do i have to lose at this point ...
I had already tried a Small RCA Yagi and I had tried a Clear Stream 4V with the VHF addon bar... and I had hooked them all up to a Channel Master 7777 30db preamplifier...
Everything I tried got a few stations ok but not 2 stations i really needed to get unfortunately they were VHF Stations...
Going with the 10foot RCA antenna and the CM7777 amp got me what I wanted... HOWEVER today if i try to scan for the same channels I am having reception problems.. I believe that has to do with atmospheric conditions of the summer but it could also be problems with my system or with broadcast signals both interference and low power... so
the deal is you get what you get and hopefully you get something worth watching but there are no guarantees that what you experience one day will be the same the next day or the next month or next year.
you just do your best and thats all you can do.
You have a cheapo antenna that probably has trouble getting VHF signals. You might have success with this: (shop around - this one looks overpriced) https://www.amazon.com/Antennas-Direct-VHF-1-VHF-Retrofit/dp/B00LHFRCMG
As far as my neighbors go, many of them have antenna towers that are 30-40 feet high, but some have antennas mounted on their roof or on the side of their homes as well....
After some research, I purchased the Clear stream 4V, mostly due to the reviews and the price point (link below) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SVNKT86/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_Y2R1AMTD9ZDY3D9NAEFP?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
In addition I purchased a signal distribution amplifier (see link below)
After setting them up and rotating the antenna between 140-195 degrees, I am only able to pick up Channel 9, which is strange because it is not the closest or the strongest station to me.
Looking out from my mounting point on my roof, there is woods of pine trees, some about 80 feet tall. I would imagine most signal is being significantly blocked by the trees in the area. At this point Im not sure what options I have besides sinking a lot more money into this project. Feeling pretty defeated about this.
I'm a fan of Televes antennas. I think their DATBOSS Mix VHF/UHF antenna would do well. The signal from the Fox affiliate is strong and coming from an angle within an antenna's back reception lobe so it should be received as well.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0725SK9BP?ref=exp_antennaman_dp_vv_d&th=1
This is literally about as simple as it can get. I'm jealous. Grab rabbit ears from Best Buy, or if you have to have something mounted on the wall a passive Winegard Flatwave, and see what you get. Judging by your report, that particular direction (315 degrees) would probably make it easier to get DC stations, but you can play around until you get what you want.
Don't go near the Leaf or any of the other knockoffs you find on Amazon.
so 24 is probably your only guaranteed station IF you use a large antenna with an amp..
the stations to the north are possible down to 33 CBS but they are going to be really flaky.
unfortunately there is no great antenna solution for you.. channel 10 and 8 will require a large VHF Antenna
I often suggest this antenna because it is large and it is inexpensive.. about half that of competitors and often you can get returns or openbox from Amazon Warehouse that are in perfect condition.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0027VST0I
however the height is going to really matter in your case and the higher the better .. you will most likely need a small tower.. craigslist can be a source for small towers under 50foot in height.. some people want to get rid of them.. I am doubting many do in the area of the cabin..
you will also need the strongest preamp you can get and that would be a channel master 7777
I'm on the opposite side of St. Louis. I'm probably a little closer at around 70 miles away, maybe. Anyway, I'm basically doing what you want to do in reverse. I pick up the St. Louis stations and pick up a couple Cape locals on the backside of my antenna.
As far as gear, I'm using an Channelmaster 4228HD https://www.amazon.com/Channel-Master-CM-4228HD-High-Antenna/dp/B000FVVKQM and a Channel Master 7777 High Gain preamp https://www.amazon.com/Channel-Master-CM-7777-Antenna-Preamplifier/dp/B000GGKOG8/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1537450060&sr=1-1&keywords=channel+7777. I have no affiliation or preference for Channel Master, it just happened. Anyway, with this setup, I can get all the St. Louis full power stations (2,4,5,9,11,24,30) and two from Cape on the backside (12,23). I receive 46 about half the time. I will occasionally receive a few of the southern Illinois stations but I've not optimized (aimed) my setup for those.
Actually with this setup, I once received all your locals via ducting for a few hours.
As they say, buy once, cry once. Don't chase around with those garbage Amazon antennas. Get a big antenna from a reputable company i.e. Channel Master, Winegard, Antennas Direct etc. Then get a decent preamp also from a reputable company. Redo your wiring with new RG6 with NO splices or splitters. Finally point your antenna toward the St. Louis cluster of stations (you have enough dbs to receive you locals without pointing. I think you'll be able to get those St. Louis stations especially since you received them on a garbage antenna.
I can't say for sure, but I think it is a Channel Master from Amazon:
its not too hard to drill through the studs.. you just need at least a 5/8ths inch drill bit and you drill from the top corner straight up into the attic... the stud is 3.5 inches wide so try to stay in the center.. make sure you're not around any electrical ... if its an inside wall there won't be insulation so the wire can come down pretty easy.. don't try to force the wire up into the attic .. push it down into the wall.. coat hanger is good to fish it but you will probably have to cut a hole for a box on your wall...
good cheap antenna .. less if you buy used but only get one from amazon warehouse used
https://www.amazon.com/RCA-ANT3036WZ-Outdoor-Element-113/dp/B0027VST0I
its not too hard i have done most of my rooms
good luck
you got to use a special splitter that is power passing on all ports and is bidirectional
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00006JPEA/
see how it says in out on each port .. bidirectional
and then its power passing on all ports .. DC and I/R passing
that means you can have the power supply in your livingroom or someplace that shoots power up to the preamplifier that is connected to the antenna.
this is not the strongest amplifier its 20db
https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B00DQN3R9O
I have two CM-7777 Amplifiers.. one on each of my antennas and they are 30db .. every 3.5db more is 2x the power
that amp at $27 from amazon warehouse is your best deal though.. its strong and since its amazon you have easy return.. and normally their returns are in perfect condition...
that RCA antenna is a decent one .. its super light so easy to deal with and has pretty good sized elements so .. but unfortunately there are no good returns from amazon warehouse at the moment... i would just get a new one... the price difference from used is not enough to warrant getting used.. but I got two of them for $35 each from amazon warehouse.. it just took me 8 months to get them both heh.. you have to wait for someone to buy one and then return it.. but i think my purchases were damaged box.. the antenna was perfect when i got it and when you put it together it causes scratches because of the clips when you open it kinda like an umbrella.. there weren't any scratches .. it was perfect.. I wouldn't shy away from returns if they are directly from amazon warehouse and not a third party... or maybe a third party if the price is super low.
good luck
this is probably a better antenna for you than that channel master
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FCXB1H2
​
it has the High VHF dipole
and it has an amplifier if you decide to try to get stations that have lower signal from the northwest
There are a few sellers of that model of antenna on Amazon find the least expensive one I have seen them for $10 less
I was thinking of the Clearstream 2v or the 2max. But I saw this antenna on Amazon - could it actually work that much better? https://www.amazon.com/Newest-Amplified-Digital-Antenna-60-120/dp/B07K9SGXFL/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=2019+antenna&qid=1556582614&s=electronics&sr=1-3
From my basic understanding I get those antennas work, but I would think the clearstream in the attic would be better, plus would rather it not be inside the house.
Usually with a signal booster you want them to be low noise and be able not send over-driven signals. (Assuming you are in the US) A FM trap is good if you have real channels in the VFH range (Below channel 14). For UHF, a LTE filter is good to have if you are close to a cell tower.
Is your antenna outdoor or indoor? If outdoor, I recommend getting a pre-amp. If indoor, a line amp close to the antenna would be best.
Also the cable you use can make a difference. If you can, use quad-shield RG6 due to less line loss compare to RG-59.
Here a average preamp that works well for a lot of people but if you are trying to get a fringe signal I recommend a better amp and larger antenna.
I live in Northern San Diego and I get both LA and TJ channels. I have a 2 bay-tie for the UHF and half wave dipole VHF (both DIY built) for local channels. For LA I have a separate deep fringe yagi UHF and VHF antennas from MCM electrons with a channel master TITAN 2 preamp. (I'm going try out the Kizttech pre-amps to see if I get better and cleaner signal quality)
You'de need a large ariel such as the DB8e to get USA channels.
u/Dicknose22 and u/OzarkBeard and others, thank you for the help. I installed the filter ~10 down cable and it appears to have cleared up the problem. After an hour I have only 31 errors and they happened when I tuned the channel.
The filter I installed is this Filter
Still more time to prove it works correctly, but going from many thousands of errors to 31 is real progress.
​
C:\Program Files\Silicondust\HDHomeRun>hdhomerun_config 10A3DDC4 get /tuner2/debug
tun: ch=8vsb:599000000 lock=8vsb:599000000 ss=96 snq=83 seq=100 dbg=115-65/168
dev: bps=19251200 resync=0 overflow=0
ts: bps=4260832 te=31 crc=0
net: bps=4253184 pps=368 err=0 stop=0
note that different antennae will get very different results...
of the different ones I tried, this worked the best for me:
I also had made my own out of stripped copper romex household electrical wire that worked pretty well, just that it lost a lot of signal when I installed it in an attic and it wasn't really suitable for mounting outdoors. it only cost a cpl dollars for the balun as I already had all the other materials.
I used to living in the general area and I had success with one of these pointed toward Harrisburg. I got NBC, FOX, CBS, and ABC reliability once I added an amplifier. Without the amplifier, FOX was pretty spotty.
WVIR NBC is also available on UHF channel 35 and is stronger than the VHF channel 2 signal. So, any UHF antenna would get your local channels. I use this antenna available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Long-Range-UHF-Element-Antenna/dp/B01BP4RF3O/
Your Charlottesville stations are so strong that you might be able to point your antenna towards Richmond and receive both markets, with a good antenna in your attic or outside.
This antennaslapped up on your attic, pointed to the towers nine miles away and connected with quad-shield RG-6 coax will do the trick. In order to get your Ch. 2, you’ll need the long dipoles this antenna offers.
That's an interesting situation. If you are wanting to get all the major networks then you'll need a proper antenna with a preamp pointed at 125° and I don't think you need to worry about the channels at 299° because those will be picked up anyway. That VHF low channel (NBC) is going to be a challenge but you can probably do it.
Unfortunately VHF low is a very long wavelength meaning the antennas that receive it are large. This is probably the best one I know of for picking up VHF Low from 50 miles away and slightly below a ridge. I am using a Winegard preamp to get channels from 52 miles away and just below a ridge. You might want the Channel Master preamp because it has a button for low amplification or high. I'm worried that straight high amplification will swamp the stations that are close to you.
Agree with the rabbit ears comments. Here is another option to chide from:
>I posted last week with these rabbitears results https://www.rabbitears.info/searchmap.php?request=result&study_id=799648
>My objective was to have an antenna installed in my attic as a backup to cable outages during hurricane season to allow me to keep up on the local news and weather.
>This is the antenna i used https://www.newark.com/stellar-labs/30-2426/hdtv-60-mile-fringe-bowtie-television/dp/25AC5066 and i have the antenna set so my best signal is with WCSC-HD. I could have got more channels if i went for a weaker signal on this channel
>My first gen hdhomerun has found the following channels:
>CH17 - 3 24.1 WTATFOX, CH17 - 4 24.2 CrimeTV, CH17 - 5 24.3 COMET, CH17 - 6 24.4 Charge!, CH17 - 7 24.5 TBD, CH17 - 8 4.1 MeTV......
>Thanks for all the suggestions, and perhaps this post might help someone else with an antenna choice in the future
That's excellent, CONGRATULATIONS!
And a big THANK YOU for posting your antenna results here, which will hopefully will inspire many others to do the same thing to get away from the evil greedy monopolist pay TV criminals!
that channel master is high $$$ here are some items i was recommended and i am about 25-30 miles from towers.
u/PM6175 made these recomendations for me, and should apply to you
$22 u/newark.com, a Stellar Labs brand complete UHF/VHF hi band outdoor
or ATTIC tv antenna kit, model 30-2485, Newark part # 71Y5463
https://www.newark.com/stellar-labs/30-2485/complete-outdoor-40-mile-hdtv/dp/71Y5463
​
or these choices
I would try the ge one, worse case scenerio you can always return it
>This is what I ordered https://www.newark.com/stellar-labs/30-2426/hdtv-60-mile-fringe-bowtie-television/dp/25AC5066
Ok, that's a totally different antenna. It's a
STELLAR LABS model 30-2426 Antenna, Bowtie, UHF/HDTV, Outdoor, Quad Bay, 60 Mile, 470MHz to 862MHz
And that antenna should work well for you as well.
The Stellar Labs description says it has an F connector output so you won't need a balun or matching transformer but there is no mention of coax being included.
It's not specifically designed for VHF but with a little luck there's a fairly good chance some high band VHF channels work with this antenna.
Let us know how it works out for you.
Good luck!
If all the channels shown in Green (Good) in your rabbitears report are enough for you, you don't need a huge directional VHF+UHF antenna, which may be difficult to install in the attic. Something like this UHF 4-bay should be all you need. https://www.newark.com/stellar-labs/30-2426/hdtv-60-mile-fringe-bowtie-television/dp/25AC5066
Another thing that can cause pixelation is LTE/Smartphones.
An LTE filter will prevent that source of interference.
I use this Channel Master LTE/5G filter.
https://www.amazon.com/Channel-Master-Improves-Antenna-Signals/dp/B01JGSC5AO
Some people use the Silicon Dust version.
Though the SD version has a lower price tag, it doesn't ship free. So probably a near wash.
A nearby LTE tower signal can cause interference. As can a Smartphone trying to reach a distant tower (has to transmit stronger signal).
24‑1 (23) WNWO-TV NBC TOLEDO OH 26 328.7° 336° 96.41 Good 56.75 L30‑1 (29) WGTE-TV PBS TOLEDO OH 27.7 321° 328.3° 89.35 Good 49.1236‑1 (26) WUPW FOX TOLEDO OH 28.1 319.9° 327.2° 89.11 Good 49.16 L11‑1 (11) WTOL CBS TOLEDO OH 27 326.9° 334.2° 78.39 Fair 42.3913‑1 (13) WTVG ABC/CW TOLEDO OH 28.6 324.8° 332.1° 75.91 Fair 39.9127‑1 (22) WBGU-TV PBS BOWLING GREEN OH 44.6 251.3° 258.6° 67.67 Fair 28.11 L
There is no doubt the UHF channels come in the strongest and are least susceptible to small adjustments to how I point the antenna, which makes sense. I am confident that if I mounted the antenna outside, I would get all of them clearly. I did with my large outdoor Channelmaster (this one: https://www.amazon.com/Channel-Master-CM-4228HD-High-Antenna/dp/B000FVVKQM/ref=sr\_1\_3?crid=SZYN4KH5OLWZ&keywords=channel%2Bmaster%2Bantennas&qid=1662413813&sprefix=channel%2Bmaster%2Bantennas%2Caps%2C90&sr=8-3&th=1\_ )
>I have a RCA Yagi in my attic.
>Currently on a 2-way splitter, but I would like to add a third TV. Could someone recommend the best splitter for a 3-way? Possibly with Amazon link.
>I’m confused about MHz range. And best brand. Or if using a 4-way with one unused would work, since there seems to be more 4 than 3-ways.
>Thanks!
The highest frequency a TV antenna splitter needs to pass these days is 608 MHz, which is a lot lower than it used to be before the FCC repack giving all the upper band of UHF TV frequencies to the cellular companies.
UHF tv channel 83 was at something like 890 mhz, I think.
but today the highest frequency is Channel 36, which tops out at 608 megahertz.
And almost any splitter of any age will pass frequencies well beyond that , so this is not at all critical unless you have a very weak signal situation to start with.
Just try a low-cost under $5 4-way or 3-way splitter.
I'm guessing it will probably work just fine in your situation, unless you're in a very weak signal situation where you need every bit of signal possible.
Get a rabbitears.info report for some good info for your particular signal situation. If all or most of your signals are rated as GOOD there you should have no problems at all.
It may look old school but I promise you it will be better than any flat antennas, besides you can mount this one on the wall
I'm getting confirmation that I can in fact do exactly what you suggested, and not break any rules of the apartment complex.
If this goes as I expect, then you will have made my nerdy little day, my friend.
Sorry, here: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01N6QGGVV/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB&psc=1
I'm fairly certain it's the same one you linked actually!
This looks a bit more similar, perhaps it's a better call: https://www.amazon.ca/GE-33694-Adjust-Indoor-Antenna/dp/B01N6QGGVV/ref=sr\_1\_5?crid=3QORB4RGN0SF8&keywords=rabbit+ears+antenna&qid=1658550135&sprefix=rabbit+ears+antenna%2Caps%2C129&sr=8-5
Aww, dang! Thanks for the info though. Do you have any recommendations for either an outdoor antenna or preamplifier? Would something like this GE work?
Thank you for your help. I live in an apartment. So mounting an attenna outside or on the roof is not feasible.
What about this antenna:
>Thank you for your help. I live in an apartment. So mounting an attenna outside or on the roof is not feasible.
>What about this antenna:
Ok, being in an apartment makes this a little more difficult for you.
It's hard to tell exactly from those pictures but that sort of looks like a flat sheet style antenna, which generally do not work very well for various reasons.
And it has an amplifier which you probably don't need and want to avoid, at least at first until you establish that you really do need an amplifier.
Plus that antenna is twice the price of a typical rabbit ear style antenna, which is a long time proven antenna design that works well for many people in many situations, so I would start with with that. You can get them at money places like Walmart, Home Depot, dollar stores, etc for around $10.
Just make sure it's the type that has the long telescopic rods what's the separate oval or round UHF element for the UHF channels.
Look for something that's essentially identical to this:
......
$10 @Amazon, RCA ANT111E rabbit ear Indoor TV Antenna, Non-Amplified
https://www.amazon.com/RCA-ANT111E-Digital-Antenna-Non-Amplified/dp/B000HKGK8Y/
......
And once you get it you might have to experiment with different locations in the apartment for the antenna, but with a little effort and luck you'll find at least one sweet spot location where most everything comes in well.
If your TV has a removable power cord, I highly recommend one of these to give you a convenient outlet behind your TV for a USB power brick...
The InstaOutlet
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CQ9F2XS
There's 4 different versions depending on the type of prongs on your power cord.
Sadly, not all TVs have removable power cords anymore.
>Do LTE filters really work? Is there a way to boost flat indoor antennas signals/reception capability??
LTE filters are often not needed in many situations. I would concentrate on the antenna before trying any LTE filters.
I agree with those who have said that the flat sheet antennas are often pretty bad.
If you can still return it I would do that and try something like a simple non-amplified $10 rabbit ear style antenna which you can get at many places like Walmart, Home Depot, some dollar stores, Amazon , etc etc...
Just be sure to get a rabbit ear style antenna that has both the telescopic long telescopic rods plus a separate oval or round UHF element.
If you have a choice and can check the specs get one with the longest telescopic rods. Look for something that basically looks like this:
.......
$9.88 Walmart onn brand Easy-Adjust rabbit ear style tv antenna with VHF dipoles plus a separate UHF loop element
..................
$10 @Amazon, RCA ANT111E rabbit ear Indoor TV Antenna, Non-Amplified
https://www.amazon.com/RCA-ANT111E-Digital-Antenna-Non-Amplified/dp/B000HKGK8Y/
.........
cable ties
you can reuse the anchors
if you are running coax then spend the extra money and get solid copper coax cable.. its a bit difficult to find in big box stores but its going to be about 20x better than copper Clad/plated or steel.
something like this https://www.amazon.com/QUAD-SHIELD-Coaxial-CERTIFIED-INSTALLTION-Satellite/dp/B07B9N9N3T/
but I don't know anything about that exact cable
you just want it to be solid copper core quad shield.
with antennas its important to get every last bit of signal because it is very weak when compared to cable tv
so spend the extra $25 or whatever
if you buy it at a local store a small magnet shouldn't stick to the center conductor.. if it does then its a lower quality... magnets don't stick to copper.
I got this GE Antenna and this Preamp in my attic and that setup is working great. I also get the high VHF stations which I had trouble getting initially.
The preamp is mounted directly below the antenna and is powered via a power supply in the basement where the coax terminates.
Thanks, I was thinking of getting this one: https://www.rcaantennas.net/outdoor/?sku=ANT752Z which I think is just the updated version of the RCA 751? It seems like a smaller version of the Winegard HD7694P but a little smaller to fit in the attic. I think if I can sometimes get VHF channels with a UHF only antenna then anything with VHF will likely do the trick. Thoughts?
>Would you recommend this one?
I've never used or seen that model in person but it looks okay ...it looks to be the same as most other rabbit ear type antennas.
But that price is more than double what it should be ... I think something like the one from Walmart or the other one from Amazon would be just as effective for $10
Thanks to another thread, I've learned that TVfool seems to be having issues, and that the FCC map was the better way to go.
The RX Strength ranges from 93 dbuV/m at its best and 54 at its worst (10 in New Orleans, 6 in Baton Rouge), with the house perpendicular to the two. Might this further inform antenna suggestions?
If you have some extra cash, take a laptop and this up to your roof. There's software to view channels and has a signal meter for actually comparing numbers.
HAUPPAUGE WinTV-DualHD Dual USB HDTV Tuner
Hey again. I pulled the trigger on this antenna. Got it for $31 on 'Amazon - Like New' condition - Clearstream 2V
Now I'm trying to decide how/where to mount it. I really don't want to put holes in my roof and I don't have a chimney. I was think on the fascia board but I have rain gutters down the side where I'm going to mount it. Any other ideas? TIA.
get two of these
https://www.amazon.com/STELLAR-30-2431-Fringe-Television-Antenna/dp/B079B4ZWJ4
then position them in all directions
connect them with one of these
https://www.amazon.com/CHANNEL-2532-2-Way-Splitter-Combiner/dp/B00006JPE1/
if you need to hook up more than one tv then use a distribution amplifier
MOHU (I always misspell it)
Mohu Leaf Metro TV Antenna, Indoor, Portable, 25 Mile Range, Original Paper-thin, Reversible, Paintable, 4K-Ready HDTV, 10 Foot Detachable Cable, Premium Materials for Performance, USA Made, MH-110543 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JC9J2NQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_0NVQDJQDJJF9EB6H3JXC
I have tried several antennas included the Clearstream 2Max as referenced above. The Fox, ABC and CBS towers are from 30 to 56 miles from me. I am in the middle of a small town and have an old tower out back that I have mounted the antennas on. I can say that I have gotten the best results from the RCA Outdoor Yagi style antenna listed below. I have a channel master medium gain pre-amp on it. It works great. As you can see on Amazon it has over 11,000 reviews. When I bought it it was only $31 and the price is now $66 but I did see it at Menards for $40 awhile back. I definitely recommend you consider this one.
​
If you don't want to run cabling and you have a decent network connection, you could try a network-enabled antenna DVR. This way, you'd connect the antenna to the DVR, and your TVs would use a streaming stick to play the live feed from that. Bonus, you get recording functionality as well.
Some options include the Fire TV Recast and the HDHomeRun (several models available).
take the wall plate off
strip back the coax and put a coax connector on it
then screw it into a coax wall plate
https://www.amazon.com/Leviton-40539-MW-Midsize-Video-Connector/dp/B002FYCMC8
find the other end in the attic and see if there is an antenna on it
make sure there isn't a preamp box because antennas won't pass signal through a unpowered preamp amplifer
but that connector could be anything.. I wouldn't connect it to a tv before you find out where it goes to.
You'll need a 75 ohm to 300 ohm adapter to test it out with a modern TV. That assumes there's something still hooked up on the other end :)
Something like this one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087B9J483/
Yeah, I thought that I have seen what you are asking about, but I'm not finding anything now, they are now double-wide outlets, Coax/data on one side and electrical next to it.
Like these.
or
>Clearstream 2MAX
This antenna only has a single dipole set. In theory, it shouldn't work any better than plain ol' rabbit ear dipole antenna. It probably works better on UHF than a rabbit ear/loop antenna, though.
ATSC 1.0/8VSB was designed to be received with an outdoor antenna.
The only thing that has better odds of working is a huge ass directional outdoor fringe antenna for VHF. It would be too big to use indoors unless you hung it from the ceiling.
I used Antennas Direct VHF / UHF Antenna Combiner, Indoor, Attic, Outdoor Use, All-weather Mounting Hardware, Adjustable Mast Clamp, Black - EU385CF-1S https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008PBTPN4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_Z80NJQ813QKEZBHWSCDA
Both are on the same pole with the VHF, for me I put vhf almost at the top. I’m a ham too, so my amateur radio Vhf and UHF are at the top.
I think this would be an example of fancier rabbit ears:
You can really just go down to your fave discount store and shop...
get a used HDHR and slap Channels DVR on the server. I really like it and they do have an android TV app. $8/month for the software though I think it's worth it. https://getchannels.com/apps/
I know you didn't want an extra box but i'm not sure that USB tuners are really a thing anymore outside of the hauppauge ones.
Wait if you're going to install a new TV antenna, why not attach an fm antenna like this to the mast just below the tv antenna and run separate coax? There should be no interference as long as they aren't right on top of each other especially since neither are transmitting.
You have to add a tuner to your Plex system or connect it to something like a HDHomerun (Plex can see a HDHomerun tuner on the network and use it). And in addition to USB tuners, there are also PCI Express tuner cards you can put inside the PC. I'm currently using a Hauppauge WinTV-Quad 1609 tuner card as well as a HDHomerun Flex 4K. Plex is able to make use of both of those. What's cool is those tuner devices actually have multiple tuners in them so you can stream one channel while recording another.
There is guide data available. You have to subscribe to Plex Pass, which is about $5/month, or buy their lifetime Plex Pass. Sometimes the lifetime Plex Pass is on sale, so you can watch for that.
That RF12 CBS is high-VHF and will never be grabbed by the Solid Signal antenna you suggested. It might be ok if VHF signals are very strong, but that’s not the case for the OP. Besides, there are a lot of comments online that the two bays of this antenna are connected by inferior RG-59 coax and should be replaced by RG-6. That can be tricky for a novice since the two cables must be identical in length to avoid multipathing. I’d suggest this antennathat was about half the cost six months ago. It’s directional but OP’s desired stations are relatively close together.
Mount this antenna on the DirecTV pole and aim it SW. Walmart also sells the same antenna.
Remove any splitters or other equipment leftover from the DirecTV system and just reuse the coax connected directly to your TV's Antenna/Cable In port. Run a channel setup scan and you should be good to go.
I would try an amplifier, generally as close to the antenna as possible but with it only being one TV you could try it right before going into that TV itself. Years ago I started with a $20 RCA preamp before moving onto a Channel Master outdoor amplifier. Buy somewhere with a good return policy and find what works best.
Also the splitter degrades the signal— just to better understand what’s happening I would remove the splitter and connect directly to the TV that isn’t getting the channels. See what you get without splitting the signal.
Here’s what I have now: https://www.channelmaster.com/collections/antenna-pre-amplifiers/products/amplify-adjustable-gain-preamplifier-cm-7777hd
Here’s some indoor and outdoor options by Philips that are way cheaper: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089585Z9C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AKEA1J6ESS3P13PX5552?psc=1
Aim this East/NE: https://www.amazon.com/TV-Antenna-Satellite-Broadcast-Epicenter/dp/B07SJ3MK26
The antenna is a solid performer. Ignore the outrageous mileage claims the seller has added to the listing.
We used to live in a downtown area. But our local towers were 35m to the North, some 20m to the NE, some 30m South. Needed a number of these pointed in different directions to pull in the stations we needed. We had a lot of tall buildings around us and trees.
If you don't live that far from the towers we had success with this antenna pulling in stations 30-45m away at our new house in the countryside. It is a little larger than the Mohu leaf style antennas but it works and is well built and performed remarkably well considering its size and we had it indoors.
Remember, TV antennas for the VHF/UHF range the higher the antenna the better result you will get. Outdoors is better than indoors but even if you hang it up at the top of a window facing out will be better than nothing.
We ended up ultimately not using the Winegard as there is one station that is 50+miles away we really wanted. So I ended up with a tower in the backyard and a 7' long TV antenna yagi monster and even then we needed to add a preamp when the trees grew their leaves out.
At 6 miles, just get a simple rabbit ear/loop antenna like this. If it doesn't work well, just return it and try something else.
If you have an VHF channels in your area, the flat antennas often have problems picking those up.
Good call. I bought this preamplifier and the powered portion contains a Bluetooth element. You can connect to your phone and see exactly what stations you’re getting so you can nudge your antenna in real-time. It refreshes every few seconds. It’s nice.
I originally tried this antenna: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0024R4B5C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_XJ74GRVXHBEP411MRDJ7
but only was able to see the CBS and PBS stations. A little more info... I am trying to use the Dish TV wiring in my house and also split the signal between two TVs. In total it is probably close to 150-200' of wire. Not sure if that was the original issue or not? Either way, I would like to avoid re-wiring for the antenna.
you don't have really bad reception in your area have you tried a Rabbit Ears antenna located near your TV yet?
if you want to mount an antenna this one should work ok and its pretty cheap
https://www.amazon.com/Channel-Master-STEALTHtenna-CM3010HD-Antenna/dp/B00PKLOA7I/
OP I saw someone here recommend an amplified antenna. This can be helpful but without knowing your proximity to FM and cell towers I hesitate to recommend these. Try these models they have no amp. https://www.dollargeneral.com/products/product-page.ge-millennium-hdtv-indoor-antenna.html https://www.amazon.com/RCA-ANT121Z-Durable-Passive-Antenna/dp/B00009W3E2/ref=pd_sbs_6/147-5320580-0721260?pd_rd_w=JrN3y&pf_rd_p=f8e24c42-8be0-4374-84aa-bb08fd897453&pf_rd_r=4CS7DSSGD4RPKT2371PM&pd_rd_r=9057451c-bdc0-48a6-834e-4856a5471...
The RCA antenna wih built in preamp listed here lacks specs or adjustability. I am wary of it
For your area you should use an indoor antenna like maybe clearstream eclipse 2. or if you want to go with an outdoor antenna which usually gives the most reliable reception the clearstream 2v max on a J pole will probably be more than enough for your area.
for the TV remote just get one of these you can program for your tv by trying a few codes from the instruction booklet and you will be good to go
if you have a small tv then take the antenna and the tv to those other two locations across the house and the porch and see what channels you get.
Your signals are really strong so the hassle of wiring it up is probably not worth it and it would cost more than 2 or 3 small antennas at the tv.
So do that first and then NBC is a VHF channel so you might need to get just a good set of RabbitEars antenna.. they are normally $10 or less .. you can get them on Amazon.
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https://www.amazon.com/RCA-Indoor-HDTV-Antenna-Rabbit/dp/B000HKGK8Y
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something like that and then extend the telescoping dipoles and you probably need to find the best position .. buy one and see if it gets NBC.. it probably should.
Is that similar to something like this?
https://www.amazon.com/Digital-Shielded-Continuous-Compression-F-Connectors/dp/B015US5OG6/
The description is the same but I don't know what makes a quality cable. Just that Amazon has free shipping while Monoprice shipping doubles the price on the one you linked.
your best broadcast market is south.. all of those stations should come in well for you.
you do have some channels under Real 13 so you will need a VHF Antenna for that.
It has been my experience that the largest antenna is always the best. Roginator is suggesting a Winegard High VHF antenna which might work for you... Amazon has a lower price on it.
I use two full size RCA antennas that are about 110 inches wide and 9 feet long they cost about the same price but are better at lower channels in the VHF Range.
If you like the Discovery Channel then 8 ABC is important to you because it also broadcasts Quest network that carries all Discovery, History channel shows.. its a great network I would say I watch it 25% of the time..
Channel 8 seems pretty strong and that Winegard might do well for you however if it doesn't you will want to go with a larger antenna if you have the room
this is the antenna i have and it performs well I also use amplifiers I don't think you will need to use amplifiers unless you need a distribution amp to split the signal to a few bedrooms and a livingroom or something .. then i might get a 8 port distribution amp off of amazon
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https://www.amazon.com/RCA-ANT3036WZ-Outdoor-Element-113/dp/B0027VST0I
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for one tv and no splitters you shouldn't need amps for either antenna suggested.
also you can't get signal through brick or aluminum siding and if possible you want to point your antenna near the flat upright part of your roof and not through the sloped shingle side
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gees i just realized when my neighbor got their roof reshingled they got this membrane barrier put on instead of tar paper.. and it has an aluminum backing on it... they don't seem like the type to have an antenna though.... hope they never want one heh its going outside on the roof if they do heh
i don't know why they stopped making FM Traps It is kinda strange if you ask me
there are a few on amazon but they seem home made almost heh
https://www.amazon.com/Broadcast-FM-Block-Filter-88/dp/B01LE9LRPM
I used an antenna mounted Amplifier. I see many indoor amps but if you live in a weak(er) signal area, you should amplify the signal as soon as it leaves the antenna. I installed this one several years ago and its been working really well.
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https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DQN3R9O/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Fox is coming in poor to your area but its not that far away
I expect that their antenna is pointed away from you and or there are other problems like hills
fox is also a VHF station and although technically a High VHF station take my word for it you need a large full sized VHF antenna to get any weak VHF stations.
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https://www.amazon.com/RCA-ANT3036WZ-Outdoor-Element-113/dp/B0027VST0I
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that is probably what you need if you have any hope of getting FOX
2 max would probably work well in your situation.
an amplifier is not suggested you have some very strong signals and you could end up over amplifying the signal.
An 8 port distribution amp might be good if you have man rooms to setup with tvs... the fewer the ports the stronger the amp.. an 8 port is relatively weak but should be good to get signal to many rooms
https://www.amazon.com/Channel-Master-Distribution-Amplifier-Antenna/dp/B002M1EPL0/
as you can see it is only 4.5db increase per port
If you only have 2-3 rooms then try a regular splitter
if you wanted you could probably get a 5 foot extension to that mast.. if needed. maybe some steel fence post at home depot or lowes and then drive a bolt through it to secure it.
VHF is an issue though you need Fox for NASCAR, NFL, Baseball, MasterChef, Hells Kitchen.... heh 7 is high vhf but i found unless you are getting good signal a full sized VHF antenna is often needed even to get the High VHF... its just the way it is because longer dipoles capture more signal.
good luck to you.. you should have a good lineup
My guess is you could get by with an indoor antenna, but if you really want one for the attic, I'd recommend the RCA ANT751. It worked well for me to pick up signals 50 miles away when installed in an attic. It's also a bit less expensive than the others mentioned.
know whats insane...
I have two big RCA Yagi Antennas the 10 footers
https://www.amazon.com/RCA-ANT3036WZ-Outdoor-Element-113/dp/B0027VST0I
each has a Channel Master 7777 30amp amplifier
I run that to a distribution amp if I remember boosting 8more db
I am 60 miles out from Philly, Baltimore ~ 70 from DC and we have stations at the beach that screw with me but dont come in well and they are about 60 miles away...
I am in the center of the Twilight Zone...
I get WGAL from Lancaster
I end up getting 2CBS 2ABC 3NBC stations
FOX is the one that gives me the most trouble.. that and the channel with Quest.
I get channel 2 out of baltimore WMAR... for the past 2 months I had been getting Channel 2 out of allentown/philly with heroes and icons
I am getting WACP 4 which has all those shopping channels .. the vietnamese one is funny to watch them yell at the callers but i don't understand what they are saying heh...
WLVT will come in for half a day like once a week heh...
ION was off the air completely which normally comes in good
I get this really weird lineup and it can change by time of day and sometimes bad weather actually makes it better..
I don't know what the hell is going on HAHAHAHAHA... its just insane
Its like wake up and ... hey what will we watch today.. who knows but it won't be that show you wanted to see because every channel will come in perfect but that one today HA! BASTARDS!!!! heh
anyway we will see
I mean its not like they had 3 years to figure this out AND the fact they just went through this about 10 years ago... someone should have took notes on what they did
but... hopefully things get better
thanks for sharing
Quick and dirty: :)
You can insert a channel with an RF modulator like this onto channel 3 or 4. Attach the antenna feed and RF modulator into a splitter in reverse.
https://www.amazon.com/RCA-Compact-RF-Modulator-CRF907A/dp/B0014KKV7W/
Now, here's the rub. You need to block the transmission from the RF modulator going to the antenna or else you'll broadcast your channel to the neighborhood. A high-low VHF splitter will take care of this beautifully. Connect the antenna to "HI", the splitter to "LINE", and cap off the "LO"
https://www.amazon.com/FYL-SEPARATOR-JOINER-FREQUENCY-CABLETRONIX/dp/B01F3YAXM2
Now, you will loose about 4db signal strength from your antenna and will no longer receive Lo-VHF channels, but most stations don't use it anyway.
EDIT: Even better. Connect the RF modulator to the "LO", the antenna to "HI", and the TV to "LINE." This will simplify the connection and also minimize signal loss to about 1db.
You shouldn't need much of an antenna. Even PBS is moving/has moved to real channel 24 - so all the major networks will be on UHF and in the same direction. Something like the Clearstream 2V or STEALTHtenna aimed out a 2nd floor window would be adequate. The Insignia currently on sale at Best Buy would probably work.
I'd test it out at ground level first.
I am lucky to have comcast for broadband and I know that.. they are the only solution here except Dialup 56k or maybe if I got a Hotspot from Verizon or something .. but that would be expensive... my neighbor had hughesnet for a while and then they changed to Comcast. I think they were shopping for a deal from comcast but they got the dish taken down so they have submitted like everyone else around here
This is the antenna i have.. I have 2 of them
https://www.amazon.com/RCA-ANT3036WZ-Outdoor-Element-113/dp/B0027VST0I/
It is a popular model and you can see it is selling for $75 .. however I was lucky to buy my antennas for $35 each with free shipping .. AmazonWarehouse had returns and they were in perfect condition as far as I could tell.
It took me about 3 months to find the first one.. then it took me another 6 months or longer to find the second one.
I just kept watching until it went on sale
there are a few used ones now but they are not from Amazon Warehouse so I would not buy them.
$35 each was a pretty extreme find and it was only because i took forever to find that price but normally they are less than $75..
https://camelcamelcamel.com/product/B0027VST0I
My amplifiers were also cheap .. about $35-40
I hope you have good luck with your antenna
I'm just surprised if I have to add anything. I got this antenna to replace a thin film type (not this exact model but one just like it) I got a few years back on slickdeals for $5.
With that old film type I experienced more pixelation so I figured if I bought a nearly $50 antenna it would totally resolve the issue. Granted it is certainly less frequent I just thought I'd never see any issues considering how close I am to the signals (less than 25 miles).
Secondly and I edited my post to reflect this I don't really watch ABC, I'm really just concerned for CBS, NBC, & FOX for football games.
ok then
I have two of these antennas. I waited a few months and was able to pick them up open box from Amazon Warehouse for about $35 each which I could not pass up. right now someone has one on there used but I would pay the full price for new.
It is a light antenna and comes in 4 pieces with a straight 4 foot pole for mounting.. I used PVC pipe for mounting since they are in my attic.
The reason i suggest this antenna is because it is a very decently strong full range VHF UHF antenna and it is inexpensive.
It is very large. If you didn't ground your previous antenna and you mount this one outside I would suggest grounding this antenna because of its size.. this is the reason these antennas are in my attic so i don't have to ground them.. also in the winter it is very common for me to get 25mph sustained winds with gusts up to 50mph for days on end.. This antenna is strong but I don't think any antenna is going to withstand that without additional anchoring. I have full very large trash cans that blow in the air some times. its fricken nuts in hellaware. At the very least I would end up having to repoint the antenna in the middle of winter in a wind storm on my roof.. and that ain't happening.
https://www.amazon.com/RCA-ANT3036WZ-Outdoor-Element-113/dp/B0027VST0I/
I would suggest that.. its $66 vs $100-$150 and it will work well for you.
CM4228 does not do VHF
You would be better off if you got one of these because then you could open the bays to widen your reception angle... this antenna also does not do VHF .. it might pickup some stations because your signal levels are really good though
https://www.amazon.com/Xtreme-Signal-HDB8X-NI-Bowtie-Antenna/dp/B00CXQO00K/
you should get two antennas
https://www.amazon.com/RCA-ANT3036WZ-Outdoor-Element-113/dp/B0027VST0I
the one pointing north you want to put an amplifier on
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if you don't want to buy two right away then buy the one and an amplifier and point it north and you may still pickup the ones to the south
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I'd start out with that one, this is the one I have and have been extremely pleased with it. Roof mount outside. I have a similar report to you but kinda worse. My house sits at the bottom of the backside of a ridge. Everything local is 1Edge or 2Edge, I have no green, local stations are ~17miles out (PBS, NBC, ABC, CBS, Fox, CW). I can pick up all the channels. Even in the attic this thing works, though I can't get all the VHF channels at once. I still even pick up a channel that is 2Edge 56.5miles out that is at 162 azimuth while I'm pointed at ~295 azimuth.
nice im in delaware 70 miles away and i get WGAL a few nights of the week depending on weather
like others have said VHF is your problem so you need an antenna tuned for VHF
also you have signals in two directions so that can be a real problem if you get a directional antenna
Fox is going to be difficult because its southeast and your best reception is west
although you are close you probably have some hills in your area blocking signal
I have 2 of these and they let me get reception from Philly and Baltimore and like I said I also pickup some stations out your way
https://www.amazon.com/RCA-ANT3036WZ-Outdoor-Element-113/dp/B0027VST0I
i also have 2 of the strongest amps you can get ChannelMaster 7777
its difficult but without this I would only get a couple stations.. mostly spanish stations from jersey and jersey pbs which is not a very good pbs affiliate.
Interesting, I hadn't seen that ClearStream 2MAX, only saw the ClearStream 2V before. Seems a lot cheaper than the one I saw listed on Amazon, but has one less piece? Not sure what it is.
https://www.amazon.com/ClearStream-Indoor-Outdoor-Antenna-Mount/dp/B007RH5GZI/
I most definitely believe they got my money and ran with the Jeje model. It was simply too good to be true to have both a "high gain" antenna PLUS be able to be remotely controlled .. ALL for just $28 bucks. I figured I was willing to try all types so why not try that one and see. I've actually had it installed at my house for 18 months now.. More because I got a little down with failure there for awhile and stopped throwing away money into the hobby but I feel rejuvenated again to try.
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I have used an Antenna's Direct before but it was when I was just trying to pick up the locals from Quincy. It was this model.. 4 Element Bowtie Indoor/Outdoor HDTV Antenna - 60 Mile Range. There was honestly nothing wrong with it other than the fact that I was starting to get interested in attempting to gain the Tropo channels and I started buying other antennas. This antenna is actually still installed and working fine at my fathers house now 6 years later.
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By ganging them in parallel, do you mean having 4 or more of these on the same mounting structure and pointing them in different directions? Or if its something else, do you care to explain and describe the benefits?
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I appreciate your comments. I really do not mind throwing a little cash at something IF it would actually work. Of course, my fear is not wasting 25-30 bucks.. But wasting 70-100 bucks on something and it not working. Surprisingly I have never seen this particular antenna.. But it intrigues me. Definitely looks like a monster.
This may be a stupid question but would running 3 different antennas weaken the signal?
I just ran a test on the porch with the antenna my sister gave me and got same result as the main living room. It got everything except NBC. The only tv I haven't tried is the one on the other side of the house.
This is the antenna I have if that makes a difference https://www.amazon.com/GE-34700-Amplified-Indoor-Antenna/dp/B00FH0VWFK
like others have said you have decent signals you should be happy with a directly attached antenna at your tv....
HOWEVER.... since you are giving up on cable and you probably want as much as you can get for free...
you might want to go with one of these antennas on your roof
https://www.amazon.com/RCA-ANT3036WZ-Outdoor-Element-113/dp/B0027VST0I
and then point it at the southern lower power group of stations .. and then you should be able to receive all of them really well.
Its a big antenna but it is very light for its size.. I have 2 of them and my only suggestion is that you assemble it on the ground and tape and zip tie the coax connector / transformer to the rail of the antenna really well and don't let it hang lose.
the mounting mast that it comes with is a 5 foot metal pole with no other hardware so you will need a chimney strap or maybe you will need a different type of mast you can mount to your roof directly
if you use an antenna like this outside you also need to ground it
but it should let you get 15-20 primary stations and then each station should have 2 to 4 sub stations .. so you could end up with 60 stations or more.. many of which will be duplicates but you should get all of the green and most of the yellow
www.rabbitears.info will tell you more about the exact stations and sub stations in your area and if it is worth it.. if they are a lot of stuff you don't want then it might not be worth the fight and then just get a good indoor antenna at your tv and you will get the green stations pretty easy.
If you are not in a hurry this antenna is as good and you can get it cheaper from Amazon Warehouse as a return for $50-60 .. or you could just buy it for $79 and save yourself 50% over the db8e
https://www.amazon.com/Xtreme-Signal-HDB8X-NI-Bowtie-Antenna/dp/B00CXQO00K
I have one and it works well
my situation is different though.. all of my broadcast towers are 60 miles away
I point 1 side at 274 and the other at 30 and I use a Channel Master 7777 amp which is really strong
you have some strong and some weak signal
the deal with that is when these antennas are flat they are the strongest.. my antenna is over 90deg out so its like I have 2 antennas.. I get only UHF stations and I get only relatively strong stations 20nmdb and above
you could point your antenna west and then open it a bit to split the difference and get the two other directions however you will never know until you try if it will work and how well.. you just really never know until you try
but you seem headed in the right direction..
oh yes and higher is better .. 10 feet can make a huge difference especially if you are going from first story height to the roof or your attic..
What do you think about this for the VHF antenna. It appears to be a Yagi tuned for the VHF-Hi frequencies: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BP4KV9Y/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?smid=A1RMSRQK09KFYY&psc=1. I will also take a look at the antenna list you provided me sometime to see if they compare. Than, I would probably need a UHF antenna and a good VHF & UHF antenna slitter. Looking at my TVFool, what UHF antenna would you guys recommend. Thanks for your help :).
P.S The reason why I would want to get a separate UHF antenna is because I have issues getting in Analog Channel 28 with the current indoor antenna.
I currently have a: ClearStream ECLIPSE TV Antenna, 35+ Mile Range, Multi-directional - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HQ4BRIG/
It's facing south, but it's almost at ground level. It's attached to a window that's only a few feet off the ground (split level house with den partially underground, where the TV is).
The signal cuts in and out on most channels. I was thinking getting higher would help.
Thanks so much for the assistance!
We've had the Terk antenna for years, works great, we keep it in our upstairs closet connected to a Tablo unit.
https://www.amazon.com/Terk-HDTVAZ-Amplified-Indoor-Antenna/dp/B0007MXZB2
We've used a Terk antenna for years but we're around 15 miles from the transmitters, works great indoors, upstairs in the closet attached to our Tablo DVR:
https://www.amazon.com/Terk-HDTVAZ-Amplified-Indoor-Antenna/dp/B0007MXZB2