[redtiger]

The CS 600 VHF antenna arrived about 6PM last night. Removed the 3023 from my roof mount and replaced it with the CS 600. I guessed at a compromise position and climbed down to see what, if anything, was being received. I was getting what I know as 5 & 12 (which were scanned in w/the other antenna). I ran the set up program for my converter again and was extremely pleased as I watched it establish service for 2, 5, 7, & 12. Admittedly, this doesn't seem like much but it's pretty much the whole ballgame around here.

After supper my wife and I tried to fine tune things. I climbed the ladder and she monitored the strength signals on the tv and I talked w/her via cell phone. Long story short, 2 is in the "center" & is strongest (roughly 90%); 7 is a 60 - 64% signal on the far right; and 5 & 12 are @ 60 - 64% on the far left. We were able to get 5 & 12 at 88% but lost 7 (2 was still great). We were able to get 2 & 7 @80 - 90% but 5 & 12 degraded to the 50% range which is really unwatchable. I'd like to supply compass readings but I'd returned the one I borrowed (I actually don't have one of my own).

So that's where we're at. If you folks will indulge me just a little while longer, I'd like to ask about pre-amps. Would my situation be helped if I employed one? Would it increase my signal strengths on the right and left? If so, in doing that, will it boost the 90% channel 2 signal too much? Additionally, I'm curious about something called a "distribution amplifier". I have a Radio Shack unit that receives the input antenna coax and has 4 output posts. There isn't much info on the thing but it is stamped "Distribution Amplifer". Same as a pre-amp? We're not using it right now - I suppose I should just find it and hook it up and plug it in and see if the signal strengths improve.

I'll just end here saying how very pleased I am. This CS 600 was $17.99 (with shipping still less than $25!) and our tv reception is the best we've ever had (the 60% signal strengths are, for the most part, very watchable. There seems to be a point where things degrade but @ 60 - 64% it's generally OK). Your forum and your suggestions have been immensely helpful. It's quite a service you guys provide. Thank you.