Thanks for the info Rabbit73. I've been going through it all weekend! I've changed course in the last 2 days. I think the DB8e will be too directional for my suburban location, and even using both panels ~30* off broadside, I think the C2 will do a better job covering. It also fits physically in my attic much easier.
How does this plan sound?
UHF: AD Clearstream 2
- 70* beam width seems to fit my needs well.
- Still 10 dBi
- Plan to aim it about 200* magnetic. Most UHF I care about is 200* - 268*, but I'd also like to pickup ch 32 (far, 164* - yellow) - so favoring that direction when final tuning the antenna aim point as needed.
VHF Hi: Fracarro Radioindustrie 6E512F
- 28* beam width
- 10 dBi
- Plan to aim around 180-190* magnetic to pickup ch 9 (164*), and hoping that ch 7 at 232* will be picked up given signal strength and proximity.
I would even consider buying a 4E512F which has 35* BW and 6dBi if I could find one.
- Combine both with a UVSJ.
- No amplification.
- Keep both antennas ~4'(?) apart in the attic. Likely 2 separate masts since I only have ~4' of vertical clearance in the attic.
- 20' run of quality RG6 from UVSJ to my home theater equip closet. 2 way splitter into the Tivo (primary TV), and then continuing on to feed the other TVs.
Questions
1) Does this sound like a decent plan?
2) Any product/source recommendations for the FM trap? Would it best to use a HLSJ from SolidSignal, or is there a better solution?
3) Any recommendation for model/brand on the splitter? Or just lowest loss, 1GHz splitter from anyone?
4) Is all RG6 about the same? Is it worth picking up Belden 1694a or some other premium cable? Guessing I'll probably use (2) 2' cables between each antenna and the UVSJ to keep it symmetric, and then the longer home run to the first splitter in the HT closet.