Weak Reception in Maine
 

I live in Bangor Maine and am having trouble accessing channels that would appear to be close enough to receive with an inexpensive setup. My current relevant information is:

•Antenna: Audiovox ANT751R DGTL (currently only using simple "rabbit ears")
•Analysis: http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...46aeace0f37a9c
•Channels: Currently receive 5.1, 5.2 (not shown on report, but is the CW), 12.1 (intermittently) using "bunny ears".
•Issue: Based on my last address which is 2 miles away from my current location, I assumed that I could pick up at a minimum 2.1, 5.1, 5.2, 7.1(ABC), 7.2 (FOX) using just a simple antenna. When that failed I purchased the Audiovox shown above which when hooked up using a 25', cheap coax cable without an amp, still does not get 2.1, 7.1 and 12.1 which are the main channels I am seeking. I did pick up NBC 117 miles away once but still could not get the local broadcast.
•Location specifics: I live near the top of a small hill that has a clear view to the west but a somewhat blocked view to the east due to houses and the top of the hill. There is a small airport to the west ~3 miles away.

If possible, I am ready to purchase the required equipment but I want the advice of a few experts to steer me in the right direction before I waste my money. An attic antenna would be the best option if feasible but I will definitely mount an outside antenna if necessary. Thanks for your help.

Your results are going to be best if you mount outside, clear of obstructions. An antenna in the house or in the attic is at a disadvantage for two reasons, first, the quality and strength of the available signal is less (just like trying to take a photo through a dirty window). Secondly, the electrical noise generated by equipment in the house is closer to the antenna so it has more negative impact (just like light reflecting off the glass in the photo analogy).

Most of the signals available to you are VHF. I'd try roof mounting an Antennacraft HD850 pointed at about 125° per a compass. The strong signals from the rear should do fine. Adjust the aim for the best compromise of signal strength/quality on all channels.

Thanks for the response with the antenna recommendation. Do you see any reason that the antenna I currently have (Audiovox ANT751R DGTL) wouldn't work?

I'm very frustrated because based on the distance, it seems that I should be able to get 2.1 without any issue but I can't pick it up at all. The same with 7.1 and 7.2. Should I invest in a preamp?

It's designed to receive real channels 7 through 51... That covers many markets well, but not yours. You need an antenna that has intentional support of real channels 2 through 51 which the HD850 does.