HDTV outdoor antennas rip off or? ?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Just me
  • Start date Start date
J

Just me

Guest
I live in the boonies, and the closes HD reception antenna is about 50 miles away,. Right now I have a regular tv antenna ( large one about 10 foot tall ) on top of my house. I also have a HD reception box attached to my analog TV., and I am getting about 4 regular HD channels , (alot of repeats of the channels ) The problem is other channels come in and out , they are there then they pixel in and out and it drives me nuts,I have researched HDTV antennas on the web and in stores. I have gotten everything from they work great , to they don't help at all (they say the antenna I have already will pick up HD reception fine.) I have tried a store bought indoor HD antenna , and got about only 2 channels from it. So, my question is ,,whats the dope on HD antennas? Can I get more channels with a larger outdoor HD directional antenna? ( Cost about 200 bucks , for a large one) Or is it just a waste of bucks. And also does anyone know if after all the channels change over to HD if the broadcasts will be stronger then they are now? If anyone knows or is in a similar situation,,please let me know !! any info will help , Thanks !!!
 
We live out in the, boonies as you say, as well. We have a 50" DLP Toshiba HDTV and a cheap little $8 indoor antenna from Wal-Mart. It picks up every HD channel available in our area. Don't try to buy an expensive one cause it will be the same quality as a simple $8 one. We originally got a $30 antenna because it said something about optimized for rural areas... Well, the antenna broke off when we were adjusting it, so we took it back and got the $8 one and it works great.
 
"Can I get more channels with a larger outdoor HD directional antenna?"

Yes.

You have a problem with signal strength and will always have issues with rain, snow and even wind. This will NOT change in February when they turn off analog standard def.

Directional antennas are designed to help with low signal strength by focusing in one direction. As long as the major towers you want to pick up are in 1 direction - it should do a better job for you than an omnidirectional antenna.

I assume you have put your address into www.antennaweb.org to see it's recommendations on size and direction?

The "Winegard" line of HDTV antennas have gotten good reviews if you are looking for a specific brand of antenna.
 
ok well,you can not get an hd picture on an anolog tv. but in febuary you will need a digital converter box or you will not watch tv...unless you say the hell with an antenna and switch to direct tv since all there channels are digital. or if you dont want a monthly bill then invest in a good antenna and buy an high definitation tv. you will need an hdtv to watch hd. or...buy an antenna and a digital converter box. your preference.
 
Back
Top