All, enjoy the forum and thanks in advance for the help. I have installed a Clearstream 2 antenna in my attic and want to get some advice regarding the use of a pre-amp or a distribution amplifier. I would like to send the signal to 5 TVs. Here is my report along with other specifics:
http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...03f3eda18892a3
- Antenna mounted in attic and approximately 25 feet high
- Cable runs from antenna and then downstairs with no splitters approximately 30 to 40 feet of cable
- I have the cable hooked up to a 4-way distribution amp that I picked up at Home Depot for $15
- 4-way Distribution amp feeds 5 TVs from that point; 3 outputs to 3 TVs (approximately 30 feet cable each) and one output feeds 2 TVs with one splitter (another 30 feet of cable)
The 2 newer TVs with digital tuners have great reception and the signals in my area are really strong. However, I have 2 primary issues:
- The PBS station (4.1) does not come in as strong as I would like on any of the TVs
- The other 3 TVs are older and I've only tried the convertor box on one. That one TV has a VERY hard time keeping the PBS station AND does not pull in near the number of channels as the newer TVs (20 stations vs. 35)
With this set-up from above, do I need to be using a pre-amp or is the distribution amplifier the way to go? Or, do I need both?? Is the distribution amp that I have (which again, was only $15) inadequate? What heading should I have my antenna pointed towards??
Any and all advice, input or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I've tweaked and tweaked and my wife is running out of patience!
Thanks.