Quote:
Originally Posted by ba.cross
In regards to pre amps, is a bigger db gains better or will it mess up signal I am trying to decide between AP8700 or AP 8275.
Brain
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No, bigger is not always better.
Try this installation with no preamp. You should have plenty of signal power to drive a 2-way splitter. The strong local signals plus FM signals may overload a preamp. If that happens, you'll have less reliable reception. If you use a large all channel or High-VHF + UHF antenna, it's going to have directive gain already. Directive gain is better than amplifier gain, it can't be overloaded and it does not add any additional noise or distortion to the signal.
An amplifier serves the purpose of overcoming losses caused by cable and splitters on the output side of the amplifier. Amplifiers are not able to receive any signal by themselves and they don't improve the performance of anything (including antennas) connected to the input of the amplifier. Selection of an amplifier is typically based on the distribution system losses, (cable + splitter losses). You also need to consider the strength and number of signals, being careful to avoid overloading the amplifier. Finally, most preamps with high gain, are intended for weak signal applications... which yours is not.