Aim between towns? Sioux Falls Sioux City

[tmerrickkeller]

Hello, all. Here is the link to my location in South Dakota.
http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...e1c61296ff03ad

As you can see, the home (some trees in immediate area, but admittedly flat terrain generally) is between Sioux Falls, South Dakota and Sioux City, Iowa television stations.

I originally thought about getting a DB8e, since the signals come largely from two separate directions. However, ultimately I decided to purchase a Winegard HD8200U, and I think I will get it up about 25' in the air. I also purchased a companion LNA-200 booster, good new wire, a tripod and feet, which will all be connected to a single HDTV, no splitting (yet).

Using just an indoor leaf-type antenna, I was able to pull in 6-8 channels depending upon weather conditions. I am hoping to pull in most everything suggested by the non-grey sections of the signal analysis.

My question is two-fold: did I goof up by not getting the DB8e and pointing it in two directions, or can I use the 8200U to pick up both Sioux Falls and Sioux City? And if I can, should I point the antenna at a spot halfway between those towns, or more directly toward one than the other (since Sioux City is farther away, more toward those signals, relying on the Sioux Falls signals to come in regardless)? Thanks, all.

[ADTech]

I decided to purchase a Winegard HD8200U

Probably not a desirable choice. It's HUGE (it has low-VHF elements you have no use for) and it's too directional to pick up both cities reliably without using a rotor. Because it's so massive, you'll either need to spring for a very heavy duty rotor or be prepared to replace the rotor frequently.

You can try aiming it at the weaker signals and see if you get the stronger ones off the side, but results will be unpredictable. You'll have to try it and see.

[GroundUrMast]

I would have chosen an Antennas Direct DB8E + Antennacraft Y10713 + RCA TVPRAMP1R preamplifier.

You have the right idea... Splitting the UHF aim. The Y10713 is needed to provide reliable High-VHF capability for real CH-7, 11 & 13.

I fear you'll find the HD8200 to be much too directional to provide simultaneous reception of both markets. It will also be a more efficient FM antenna... which could force you to take steps to reduce interference if there are strong FM signals in the air. This is an example of 'bigger isn't always better'.

[tmerrickkeller]

Can both of those antennas be attached to the same mast? I have a 3' tripod plus a 5' extension. My sense is that the DB8e can be placed lower on the mast, and then the Y10713 on the top of the same mast. Is that right?

I haven't opened a thing yet, and am pretty sure I'm going to go in your suggested direction because of the size and directional limitations of the Winegard. I think I fell into the "buy the biggest and best" trap which wasn't quite right for my particular situation. Thanks so much.

[GroundUrMast]

Generally, I put the UHF antenna at the top, and the H-VHF antenna at least 3' below (though 4 or 5 feet would be better.). If needed, you may want to consider using a section of 1 3/8" diameter chain-link 'top-rail'. I find it stocked locally at the big box home center for under $12.