Stacking and Combining two TV antennas

Close Window
>
>
Q. Just ordered one of your 8-way distribution amplifiers to add more new HDTV's to my system. I'm about ready to revamp my rooftop antenna installation. I am in a deep fringe area, but happily I'm sitting on top of an 1800' peak. My current installation picks up quite a few stations from 150 miles away, along with the local stuff. Some of my digital signals from the distant stations are poor at times (even with a rotor and amps.), and I'm looking to improve my signal quality, especially in the UHF band. I was thinking of going with your Winegard HD 9032 antenna, or even two of them stacked (in addition to a VHF antenna). I'm looking for information on the signal gain increase by stacking two coupled antennas aimed the same direction. Is there specific specifications on how far they should be spaced apart vertically for optimum performance? Any special signal coupling needs between antennas?

I appreciate any wisdom you can offer me, and thank you in advance for your time.

Sincerely,

Zane __________ Drive Placerville, CA. 95667
.
.
A. Stacking two TV antennas of the same kind both pointing in the same direction can give you as much as 3 to 4 dB additional signal gain. This can be significant on weak signals. The distance apart is not specific for the UHF antennas. Two UHF antennas such as the HD 9032's can probably be very close, probably within a foot or less. It is best to experiment with the distance by having someone view the digital signal meter as you adjust the spacing. Cel phones or walkie talkies work good for this. I recommend the VHF antenna be at least 2 feet away from the UHF antenna, 3 feet would probably be even better.