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Originally Posted by Tigerbangs
I believe that you'll have no issues with KC using the 4221 it should be just fine; my only concern for you is having multiple screen-type antenna on the same mast, since they are wind-catchers, but it sounds as if you are willing to mount antennas on 2 separate masts, so you can probably engineer an antenna system that won't be too windblown.
As for the ResearchComm preamp, my information is third party and anecdotal, but I have read that 2 different posters in forums that I read have had the UK preamp, and have had failures. Both has mentioned having warranty service issues, since the company is in the UK, and has no US representation., they have complained about the cost and delay in getting replacement preamps. My understanding of the preamp is that it is great when it works, but even the company's website touts a "2% failure rate" in the preamps, which, in my mind, is unacceptable for a modern electronics company. It spells trouble for a Yank who has issues with it and can't get an easy or quick replacement without paying half the cost of the product in shipping and customs fees.
If there were no good preamplifiers available here in the US, I might think differently, but my inclination is to go with a good Channel Master or a Winegard preamp, and know that, if you have a failure, that you can get a quick and easy replacement. IMHO.
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I know that the UK unit has a very low noise floor which makes it the choice of many for deep fringe locations. But after hearing what you just said about the failure rate and upon additional reading I learned that some of the units have caught fire, I've decided to pass. I'll opt for the Channel Bastard 777 or possibly the comparable Winegard unit.
I've been getting some additional feedback about antenna type on the HighDef forum. BTW. I see that you are back on there again. I've ruled out the choice that JB suggests which was the 7698P. Nice antenna but it's not quite as sensitive on the UHF band as a UHF only antenna. Since MKIZ is going to be a challenge, I definitely need the most sensitive antenna I can find.
The XG91 does seem like a good choice. But I got to thinking that perhaps the Super G 1483 might be just as good or even better especially if I go for the 16 bay unit. I just took a look at the home again and it appears as though I can mount the antenna on a small chimney vs. the stink pipe I previously thought I'd have to use. That being the case, a chimney mount will be more secure than a vent pipe and can accommodate the larger antenna. Another guy in MO in the general area as myself also said the C4 by Antennas Direct would also work.
What do you think about these other antennas? Or even the Winegard 9032 as just mentioned in another post? I noted the 9032 is considerably cheaper than the XG 91 but seems to have comparable specs. Or the CB 4248? Seems to be on par with the XG91 for the channels at 20 or lower according to HDTV Primer's Net Gain chart.
Can you tell me in your eyes what gives the XG91 an edge over the others? I'm still willing to try it but I just want to be certain it is the right antenna for this situation.