Cutting the (cable) cord

[kseg]

I am moving to Sebastian Fl, and am looking for advice on the best antenna for that area. The more research I do, the more my head begins to swim, so I am turning to the experts. I am inclined to think I will need one of the multidirectional antennas. Don't have to deal with high rises, mountains or other obstructions.
My analysis report is as follows: http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...f1f08395c40e04

Any and all expertise/opinions are appreciated.
Thanks!

[phone man]

Check the link to your TVfool report please.

[ADTech]

Do you have a clear and unobstructed view towards Orlando (Bithlo)? That appears to be your best opportunity for getting a complete set of network stations.

[kseg]

Sorry Phone Man.
I tried to cut and paste the link, but it would not let me do that. I typed in in freehand..could have made a mistake.

Update: I clicked on the link and it took me right to the analysis report for that area.

[kseg]

The surrounding area is clear of obstructions. I just want to get the best, strongest antenna I can for my area, knowing that the TV broadcast stations are not very close to me. What I really need are some suggestions for a recommended antenna.

[phone man]

The link works now, thank you. Aiming toward Orlando as ADtech suggests gets you all the major networks and many independent stations. The NBC station is actually VHF(real channel 11). All the rest are UHF. Fortunately all are on the same compass heading. I would suggest a Channel Master 4228HD antenna because of it's upper VHF capabilities. That should cover channel 11 NBC for you. You don't mention how many televisions you intend to connect or anything about your signal distribution system. You may get by with just the antenna if your RG6 coax run isn't very long and you only have one TV.
A good preamp with a low noise rating like the PA-18 from Antennas Direct would be good insurance against signal drop outs since you're 66 miles away from the broadcast towers. It would also help if you plan on using a splitter for more than one TV.
I'm reliably picking up a channel 66 miles away with a similar setup for two TVs and 120 ft coax run to the furthest location.
Your report is based on the antenna being 10' off the ground. Higher is better but keep in mind there may be a big difference in a few inches of antenna height so be willing to experiment with height as well as left to right when aiming your antenna. A helper watching the signal strength on the TV while you move the antenna will help you find the best position. Use good connectors, crimp on is OK, compression is better. Avoid the cheap screw on type. One weak spot in your signal chain can ruin the results.
Free TV puts a smile on my face every time I hear about how much cable and satellite cost. Good luck with your installation!

[rickbb]

I have a similar plot and do very well with a DB4 with no reflector. I get channels from the front and rear of the antenna.

Other antenna's may work just as well for you but I only have experience with the DB4 style.

[ADTech]

Not to pick on him, but I'm going to disagree with two of phone man's recommendations. (Sorry ).

First off, I cannot recommend the PA18 for this location. It's really for weak signal only areas as it's easily overloaded. I imposed a simple guideline for our inside sales folks to prevent overloading by making it simple: If there's green on the TVFool plot, don't sell it. Our Juice, OTOH, can be used anywhere an amp is appropriate. There are also other preamps from competitors that would be appropriate for this "moderate plus weak" signal location. Don't forget to check for local FM signals as they can cause overloading when not addressed.

The CM4228HD would do very well on UHF but it's high-VHF reception probably isn't sufficient for reliable reception of WESH. Suitable alternatives would be a large high-VHF/UHF combo or a system comprised of a dedicated UHF antenna plus a dedicated high-VHF antenna properly combined and amplified.

[phone man]

Thank you for the critique and being kind. I'll make a note about the PA18 in green zones.
As far as a single antenna solution, something with more gain for VHF like a Winegard 7698 would be better?

[ADTech]

Oh, definitely. However, it is 14' long, over 15 pounds in weight, and not for everyone....


The alternative would be the pair of antennas, each a specialist for its own band.