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GrafixGuy
19-Oct-2016, 6:42 PM
Hello,

Looking to cut the cord finally and trying to figure out which long range antenna to go with.

Here's my report:
http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wrapper&Itemid=29&q=id%3de2cbb21353f1fb

I am only interested in the major broadcast channels south of me, both UHF and VHF. They at 180° true north and 201° true north. Distance is 60 miles to both UHF and VHF receivers.

I am able to mount the antenna off of my detached garage, which allows me to go up 30' - 50'. It also gives me an unimpeded sight line at 180° true north. 201° true north is slightly blocked by one tree.

Thanks!

rabbit73
23-Oct-2016, 3:20 PM
Welcome, GrafixGuy

I suggest a Winegard HD7698P antenna aimed at about 181 degrees true, 166 degrees magnetic by compass. Fox is at 185 degrees magnetic, but it is a lot stronger. Try the Channel Master 7778 preamp.
http://www.channelmaster.com/TV_Antenna_Preamplifier_p/cm-7778.htm

The CM7777 preamp has more gain, but it would probably be overloaded by KVOS.

You should be able to get down to KCTS, but you would need to rotate the antenna for ION, or have a separate antenna for it.

I see a lot of trees in your area; try to avoid them.

GrafixGuy
23-Oct-2016, 3:44 PM
Thanks rabbit. I was doing some research in the Winegard antennas, so your suggestion is very helpful.

Regarding the signal amp, where in the. System line do I install it ?

rabbit73
23-Oct-2016, 5:08 PM
The preamp should be near the antenna; its power inserter inside.

HD7698 > CM7778 > coax > grounding block > CM power inserter inside > TV

http://downloads.channelmaster.com/Sheets/7777_7778_UG.pdf

If the antenna is outside, the coax shield should be grounded with a grounding block that is connected to the house electrical system ground with 10 gauge copper wire for electrical safety and to reject interference. For further compliance with the electrical code (NEC), the mast should also be grounded in a similar manner to drain any buildup of static charge which will tend to discourage a strike, but the system will not survive a direct strike.

http://forum.tvfool.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1559&d=1441917363

GrafixGuy
1-Nov-2016, 5:51 PM
Rabbit73:
Would the Channel Master CM 2020 Antenna be a viable alternative? It's available online for half the price of the Winegard 7698P. Which preamp would I pair with it?

rabbit73
1-Nov-2016, 6:26 PM
That's a tough choice. The 7698 has a little more gain for the 2Edge signals, better F/B ratio to reject interference from the NW, but a longer boom. The 2020 is smaller and has less VHF gain for KCTS PBS.

I'm more concerned about performance than price. Either one should be OK, but I can't give you a guarantee; the choice is yours.

2020
Bandwith 174 to 216 and 470 to 700 MHz
VHF Gain 7.5dB
UHF Gain 10dB
Front to Back Ratio 14dB
Boom Length 90.5"
http://www.channelmaster.com/Digital_HDTV_Outdoor_TV_Antenna_p/cm-2020.htm

http://forum.tvfool.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=2433&stc=1&d=1478025234

7698
http://www.winegard.com/kbase/uploads/HD7698P.pdf
Boom length 168 inches

Same 7778 preamp.

GrafixGuy
1-Nov-2016, 6:31 PM
Thanks for the quick feedback rabbit73. I'll take that into consideration.
I need KCTS, but not PBS if that makes any difference.

rabbit73
1-Nov-2016, 6:48 PM
Um, you mean you need KCTS for Create, but you don't need KCTS for PBS?
http://www.rabbitears.info/market.php?request=station_search&callsign=kcts

K24IC doesn't have Create.
http://www.rabbitears.info/market.php?request=station_search&callsign=k24ic

GrafixGuy
1-Nov-2016, 6:55 PM
Sorry. I meant I do not need any channel below VHF 11.