Quote:
Originally Posted by thom
Both stations you mention are distant 2Edge stations (70-100+ miles). Given the distance, you're subject to all kinds of atmospheric phenomena that can produce tantalizing or frustrating results, depending on your orientation.
The signal coming from the tower isn't like a frozen rope, it's going to constantly refract over those edges and twist and bend on the way to your antenna. Sometimes the coefficients of the reception equation all converge in the right direction and you get what appears to be a highly improbable signal. Other times, you won't even get a blip on your signal meter.
So, if you find this frustrating, buying a new preamp and antenna will probably just increase your frustration. If you find it intriguing, the parts are generally affordable, so it's not a huge outlay of cash as a hobby. It's all about your own expectations, though. (hence the Moby Dick reference)
That said, the 42XG is a capable antenna, but moving it outside would be a cheaper first step. You could look also at the 91XG or DB4e with the VHF add-on as well as the PA-19/18 preamps. Most of the gain data is readily available on the web, so you can compare your 42XG to others from AD as well as the other majors like Winegard and AntennaCraft.
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OK, so what you're saying is that a preamp at the antenna is not really going to help me. I don't think I want to mount it above the roof -- local regulations and all that. Plus it would be a pita.
So if I'm comparing antennas with the 42XG, what number am I looking at to get improved reception?
Now, on the other hand, if I could get a flat-mount antenna that is inconspicuous and I can mount, say, under the eaves against the outside wall, then that might do it. Do you think the ClearStream2 (or similar) would work that way?
Thanks!
Bryan