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TV Antenna Source
Your source for all of your TV antenna digital reception needs.
Offering a complete line of quality indoor and outdoor TV antennas, amplifiers, rotators (rotors), mounts
>.and accessories. You'll also find detailed information for the do it yourself television antenna installer.
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"Helping America Watch Free TV"
Great TV reception is always guaranteed...Since 1988.
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EZ HD TV antenna
#1 Selling Antenna
Best digital TV antenna performance in its Class
Only 35.14 inches long
Easy to install
Optimized for today's
digital signals
Made in the USA 
100% satisfaction guaranteed
More...
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HD Stacker TV antenna
Finally a long range antenna that's less then 6 feet long.
Performs as well or better then antennas twice its size.
Reduced wind load
and increased stability
Optimized for today's
digital signals
Made in the USA
100% satisfaction guaranteed
More... |
Help ! Center... →GO← Need to find
specific information? This is the place to do it! Just click on "GO" above |
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Your Suggestions Money Back Guarantee
I can't find a website or a local dealer that offers a money back guarantee on their antennas. What if I can't get good reception I'm stuck with an TV antenna that doesn't work? I think you should offer some kind of money back guarantee. I think you're right. TV antennas come with a 90 day manufacturers defect warranty but that doesn't help you if it's not defective. The reason dealers hesitate to offer money back guarantees is many times the problem with reception is not the TV antenna it's improper installation. Hopefully people will contact me for help and not just return the antenna.
OUR GUARANTEE: If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, for any reason, return it with-in 90 days of the purchase date, to Denny's Antenna Sales 3758 W. Washington Rd. Ithaca, Mi. 48847 for a full refund of your purchase price.
Thank you for your suggestion, we'll see how it goes.
Denny
TV Antenna Source
Indoor/Outdoor TV Antennas and Accessories |
Topics on this page
HDTV antenna Fact or Fiction.
Cable TV public enemy #1
Pre-amplifier basics & troubleshooting.
MS 2000 rotor free TV antenna.
Denny how did you get your experience?
Everything to install a TV antenna system.
Multi-directional TV antenna system.
Which way do you point a TV antenna?
Rotator installation help.
TV antenna outdoor Vs. attic mount.
What is the best TV antenna?
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ASK DENNY Topics TV Antenna Questions page two
Topics on page 2
HDTV antenna for my attic
TV antenna local reception.
HD 7080 or MS 2000 antenna.
Winegard MS 2000.
MS 2000 mounted on chimney.
Shopping for an HDTV antenna
A simple antenna-presto TV.
TV antenna selection for HDTV.
Antenna output.
Digital TV antenna signal in and out.
TV antenna installation needed.
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TV Antenna Questions page three
Topics on page 3
Best TV antenna for HDTV reception in Chicago
Un-hook the money sucking cable.
Do it yourself TV antenna.
Winegard Sharp Shooter indoor TV antenna.
Indoor TV antenna.
Winegard MS2000 installation height.
Outdoor TV antenna to mount on tower.
HDTV antenna selection.
Damaged TV antenna.
Missing weather boot. |
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TV Antenna Questions page five
Topics on page 5
Indoor TV antennas are hit and miss.
Multiple TV antennas, one down lead.
Winegard SharpShooter indoor TV antenna for Chicago.
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TV Antenna Questions page six
Topics on page 6
TV antenna for the attic.
I'm really interested in the MS 2000
rotor free TV antenna.
Drop satellite, going to a TV antenna.
I can't have an outdoor TV antenna.
Long range TV antenna,
Reach out and grab other cities. |
MS 2000 Rotor free Round Television Antenna
Denny, does the winegard MS 2000 round antenna really work ?
Oscar
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Oscar,
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The MS 2000 round TV antenna often referred to as the round television antenna is and has been our best selling antenna for over fourteen years now. Its advantages are tremendous, It cost less than traditional antennas, It's easier to install, and it doesn't require rotation. Keep in mind the MS 2000 is the deepest fringe omnidirectional TV antennas, however, it can't replace an antenna such as the Winegard HD 7084 for applications in extremely weak signal areas. It's best when stations are within fifty miles or so, however we have some stations here in Michigan that have good output power and can be received from about 75 miles away using the MS 2000. Some of the very weak channels, along with poor terrain conditions can be limit quality reception to about thirty miles. Terrain, antenna installation height, power output of the TV station are all factors to be considered when considering any TV antenna. Our return rate on the MS 2000 is less than 2%. For more information see selecting a TV antenna.
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Thanks, Denny
TV Antenna Source
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What is a digital TV antenna?
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Denny,
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All over the internet I see antennas that claim to be digital tv antennas. Is there really any difference?
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James
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Hi James,
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The answer is no. The term digital TV antenna is misused in an attempt to exploit the consumer. Thousands of TV antennas over the past couple of years have been sold to unknowing consumers who were unaware that they didn't need a "digital TV antenna" or "HDTV antenna to get the digital signals.
However, TV antennas can be designed to enhance digital TV reception performance. As you may know I designed two antennas specifically for digital TV reception. The EZ HD antenna and the HD Stacker antenna. The whole idea of the design of these antennas is to offer top performance in a smaller package.
The old analog signal frequencies were broadcast on channels 2 - 69. The digital signals we use today stop at channel 52. We no longer use the channel frequencies above channel 52 to broadcast digital signals. Also, very few channels (less then 2%) in the USA use the channels 2 - 6 frequencies. The wider the frequency range a TV antenna must cover the larger it has to be. TV antennas designed to receive analog TV signals had to cover channels 2 - 69. "Digital TV antennas" (antennas designed and frequency tuned for digital reception) can now be designed and tuned to receive the specific frequencies used for digital signal broadcast. This allows the antenna to be smaller and yet offer the same performance as the larger antennas designed for analog reception.
To make matters worse some manufacturers designed antennas for UHF only (channels 14 - 69). These antennas worked fine for pre-transition digital reception because most channels were UHF. However, on June 12, 09 many stations in the USA reverted back to high band VHF (channels 7 - 13) causing major problems for those who purchased these antennas. These antennas are still out there today so be aware that any antenna smaller then the EZ HD will not offer good performance on channels 7 -13. See below : Not all TV channel numbers are what they appear to be.
Best Regards,
Denny
Getting it Right the First Time.
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Dear Denny,
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I've been doing research on purchasing a digital tv antenna, and came across your most useful site. I found it to be very thorough and informative. Thank you! Given your lengthy, in-depth experience, could you please suggest an antenna for my specific location and needs. I've been using satellite tv for a number of years, but with the digital tv switch-over, I'm looking at abandoning satellite for broadcast tv (I really don't watch that much tv anymore, so I think I can do without it). In my house, I have four different tv locations, two in the front and two in back of the house, with usually one or two sets on at any given time. Using a digital converter box and rabbit ears, I can pick up 16 channels, but some (like UHF channel 6) have poor reception. My location is ___________ Albany, NY 12208.
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Given my surroundings, I'd like to achieve the greatest possible signal, understanding fully that I'm limited by a number of conditions (ex. tv transmitters, antenna height, terrain, wind, etc.). With that in mind, I thought it best to get the largest possible antenna, position it outside at the highest possible (and legal) point from my roof line, and look at employing a amp/preamp. After reading some of your general recommendations, I initially thought that a Winegard HD 7084P would suit me best. However, I also noticed that Winegard produces another model, the HD 8200U, which I believe is larger, and provides a greater range. If cost is not an issue, then would the HD 8200U provide better reception, or do suggest another model?
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In regards to the amp/preamp, I was thinking a Winegard AP-8275 would be an ideal choice. Does that seem right? Given the fact I have 4 tv locations, would it be sensible to also incorporate a signal booster device (like the Motorola BDA100 Signal Booster)? I'd really appreciate any input and suggestions you can provide. I realize this could be some endeavor, so I'd really like to do it right the first time. Thank you for your assistance.
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Harry __________
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>Greetings to you Harry, Here's the low down for free over the air TV reception at your location. Every major over the air network is available. All of their signal strengths are reasonable strong. All of the broadcasting transmitting antennas are in the same direction to your West at a distance of less then 12 miles. There are very few if any other stations available besides these. Any that may be available are only repeats of the same networks you can get from the transmitters to your West. From this transmitting farm you will receive ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, PBS, MNT, CW, ION, TBN, and FMN and all of their sub channels. Sub channels are not provided with most satellite and cable TV. The main channel of each station will appear as say 10.1 in your case 10.1 is ABC. In addition to 10.1 there may be a 10.2, 10.3, and maybe even a 10.4. These sub channels offer programming in addition to the main channel such as movies, sports, weather etc. At your location there is no need to go any further the the HD 7010 VHF/UHF antenna. This antenna has ample signal gain to provide high quality consistent reception on all of the above mentioned stations. Install the antenna in a stationary position with the narrower end of the antenna aiming West. Signal amplification will be required to provide signal to all 4 TV location. Your best bet is the HDA 200 distribution amplifier. This unit should be installed within 50 feet or less of coax cable length from the antenna. From the amplifier output now run coax cable to a 4 way signal splitter. The cable length from the amplifier to the splitter is not to important now that the signal has been amplifier. From the signal splitter run cable to each TV location. The antenna elevation is not to import as long no immediate obstructions appear to the West of the antenna location. The HD 7010 antenna is small enough that it can be used with any mount we offer. The choice of mount is usually better done by you since you can see the structure and can decide what will work best. There is some "how to" information in our "Help Center" that you may want to check out. You'll find the help center at the link below. If we can assist you further, please don't hesitate to contact us. Best Regards,
Denny Duplessis
TV Antenna Source
"Helping America Watch Free TV"
3758 W. Washington Rd. Ithaca, MI. 48847
www.dennysantennaservice.comNeed Help? Information? Visit our Help Center at www.dennysantennaservice.com/TV_antenna_help_center.htmlView our Guarantee www.dennysantennaservice.com/1110031.html
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Not all TV channel numbers are what they appear to be.
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Hi Denny,
I live at ______________ Drive, Chino Hills, California, 91709 . With my current TV antenna, I cannot get channel 2, 4 or 5. Which antenna is better EZ-HD TV Antenna VHF/UHF/DTV or UP-7 TV Antenna for my area. Or is there a better TV antenna choice out there.
Thanks
Chet ______________
Hi Chet,
The TV channel numbers 2, 4, and 5 now (post digital transition) are merely symbols reflecting their past analog channel number. This is true for most channels across the Country. Channel 2 WCBS in your area is actually broadcasting their digital signal on channel 43 UHF. Channel 4 KNBC is on 36 while channel 5 KTLA is on 31. However, there are 3 high band VHF channels broadcasting from Los Angeles. Channel 7 is on 7. Channel 9 on 9 and 11 is on 11.
I think the EZ HD or the UP 7 TV antennas are good choices. They actually are very close in performance. Since the EZ HD is smaller, costs less and is more durable that would be my choice. Also, we have a dedicated EZ HD antenna page on our website just for Los Angeles TV antenna reception. We send a lot of EZ HD's to the LA area with very good success.
If you intend to supply multiple TV's using a signal splitter. A distribution amplifier such as the HDA 100 or the HDA 200 may be needed. To supply a 2-4 way signal splitter use the HDA 100. To supply a 4-8 way splitter usethe HDA 200. I don't believe you would need any signal amplification if there's no signal splitter and the cable run from the antenna to the TV is 75 feet or less.
If we can assist you further, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Best Regards,
Denny Duplessis
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HDTV Antenna Fact or Fiction?
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Denny,
As I read your article HDTV antenna fact or fiction? I'll admit I had a hard time believing you knew what you were talking about. I have been to numerous TV antenna sites that claimed to have specially designed antennas for HDTV. Some even claimed if you didn't have an HDTV TV antenna or digital TV antenna you wouldn't be able to get your local HDTV channels. I emailed the article to our local TV station here in New Jersey and to my surprise the station engineer emailed be back saying that you were correct in your facts. I apologize for doubting you.
Great site!
Roger
Well Roger, I can understand why you would doubt the information found in HDTV Antenna Fact or Fiction?. It seems everywhere you surf on the internet pertaining to the sale of TV antennas (with some exceptions) you find HDTV antennas or digital TV antennas. I wrote the article in an attempt to combat this misconception.
Your apology is accepted, but not needed. Thanks for letting me know. Be sure to let me know how your antenna works out.
Denny
TV Antenna Source
Cable TV Public Enemy #1
Hi Denny,
You have to be cable TV's public enemy #1. I know I'm enjoying free tv without the monthly bill. In your career how many people have you helped to ditch cable?
William T. Fl.
Hello William,
That's funny, I guess I never looked at it that way. I have no idea the total number for my entire career in the antenna business but I do know the number is several thousand in just the last year. I never imagined so many people would drop cable as they are right now. My email in box is overflowing with people wanting to get off cable or satellite.
Take Care and thank your for doing business with us.
Best Regards,
Denny
Will the UP 7 Antenna Work for Me
My name is Randy and I'm in Wharton, Tx. 77488 I'm looking for a HDTV/digital tv antenna to get the Houston HDTV stations. I was wondering if the up 7 would work for me.
Thanks in advance-Randy
PS, Great website.
Hi Randy,
The UP 7 antenna is a very good choice for your location. However, I feel obligated to tell you that we just tested the UP-7 head to head with our new EZ-HD TV antenna using a field strength meter. Comparing apples to apples we found the smaller EZ-HD antenna performed every bit as good as the UP-7 antenna. The benefit here is the EZ-HD is about half the size of the UP 7, and it cost $40 less.
Bottom line, the performance is the same making the EZ-HD TV antenna the better choice.
The antenna can be installed in a stationary position with the narrower end of the antenna pointing East/Northeast. This position will provide you with excellent reception on all of the Houston area stations.
If you need any further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Best Regards,
Denny
TV Antenna Source
Hi Denny,
Thank you, your recommendation was right on the money. I'm getting all of the HD channels from Houston with at least an 85% signal most are above 90%.
Thanks for your help, I'll spread the word.
Randy
Pre-Amplifier Basics & Troubleshooting
Denny,
Thank you for all your help with my amplifier problems. The TV antenna amplifier I got from you was my third one and it works great. Now I know there probably wasn't anything wrong with the first two, it was how I had them installed. You should let everyone know what you taught me on the phone.
Thanks Again,
Robert |
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Robert,
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Excellent Idea, since 60% of reception problems are related to pre-amplifiers I think I will. There are two parts to a mast mounted TV antenna pre-amplifier. The antenna amplifier portion is mounted on the mast close to the TV antenna. The power supply is located indoors. The coax lead-in wire runs in and out of both parts. The outdoor amplifier is located near the TV antenna because that is where the signal can be amplified before signal line loss occurs. The function of the power supply is to supply electricity to the amplifier, it does this by sending it up the coax cable, the same cable that sends the TV signal down to your TV. This is where most problems occur. To transfer electricity through wire you need two conductors (wires). With coax cable the conductors are the center copper wire and the silver wire braid and shield located just under the rubber coating on the cable. The wire between the two parts can not have any interruptions in the power flow. If it does your amplifier will not work. An antenna amplifier that isn't working provides worse reception than if you had no amplifier at all. Damaged wire, signal splitters and screw on (non crimping) type cable connectors are the number one causes of amplifier failure. To test your amplifier tune your TV to a channel that has a picture, unplug the power supply from the 110v electrical outlet, the picture quality on your TV should worsen, if it doesn't chances are your amplifier isn't working. Next check your wire for damage (some wire damage occurs inside the wire and cannot be detected by examination). Remove any signal splitters located between the power supply and the TV antenna amplifier. Next check your connections to be sure the connectors are making contact with the cable braid. If you are using screw on (non crimping) cable connectors be sure ample braid is folded back over the outside of the coax and connection to the braid is being made as you screw the connector on. Using a voltage meter you can test the wire at the amplifier to determine if the electricity from the power supply is present. Most power supplies have the output power indicated somewhere on the unit.
I hope this is helps anyone struggling with their TV antenna pre-amplifier.
Denny
TV Antenna Source |
TV Antenna Selection
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Hello Denny,
I have just recently purchased some vacation property 5 miles east of Atlanta, Mi. (49709). The property is in a very hilly area, on Manier Road, and with an indoor rabbit ear setup I can only pick up one channel (PBS). I am going to eventually retire to this area, and I would like to pick a digital TV antenna and mount that will work and pick up as many stations as possible.
Thanks!
Scott
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Greetings Scott,
I have examined your location and the stations available. At your location the main goal is to get quality reception on at least one of each network.
The networks available are
PBS Ch. 6 and
CBS Ch. 11 Alpena
FOX 45 Vanderbilt
ABC Ch. 29 Kalkaska or Ch. 8 the Soo
NBC Ch. 4 Cheboygan
I recommend The Winegard HD 7084 VHF/UHF/HD-digital TV antenna. This antenna has the maximum gain necessary to overcome the reduced signal strength created by the hills and can stand up to that areas, at times, harsh weather. Along with the antenna I also recommend the Winegard AP 8700 antenna preamplifier (booster). This amp. has a high signal input capability, to reduce the possibility of the nearby PBS strong signal interfering with the performance of the antenna amplifier. You will also need an antenna rotor to direct the antenna in the direction of the stations. The antenna mount you choose is your decision. View the antenna mounts and install the one that you can safely install and is suited to your structure. If I can assist you further, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Best Regards,
Denny
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TV Antenna Experience
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How did you get your experience ?
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I started when I was about twelve years old installing my first tv antenna on my parents house in a little town called Fruitport on the west side of Michigan. With my first success behind me neighbors began asking me to install their TV antennas. Eighteen years ago we moved to our current location here in Ithaca Mi. I began installing antennas again to earn a little extra money. I read several books on the subject and asked a lot of question. Most of my training has been on the job. I have personally serviced over 12,000 customers in the past eighteen years. Many people are surprised to find out I still go out and install TV antennas. I enjoy it very much, however at fifty two years old, going on big two story farm house roofs and climbing fifty foot towers takes a little more effort. The ladder is getting a little heavier and the houses a little higher. I really enjoy it, I'll keep going as long as I can.
Thanks, Denny
TV Antenna Source
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List everything to install a TV antenna system
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Hi Denny,
Great speaking with you earlier.
I'm interested in a complete list of everything I need (prices too, please). I will begin the search for someone to install it.
Warm regards,
Jay
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Greetings Jay,
It was a pleasure speaking with you also.
Items you will need to properly install a Television antenna.
TV antenna.
I recommended to you the Winegard HD 7084 as the best TV antenna.
TV antenna mount.
We discussed either an eave mount or a 5 foot tripod mount. Both mounts come
with lag screws.
Mast Pipe
One 5 foot mast pipe If a rotor is to be installed this pipe will be cut into two
pieces. One piece will extend from the tripod to the rotor.
The other piece will extend from the rotor to the TV antenna.
Coax cable (antenna down lead wire) The coax cable must run from the
antenna to the TV. Multiple set hook up requires a signal splitter and cable to
run to each TV from the splitter.
Cable fasteners Cable fasteners are used to secure the cable to the house.
TV antenna rotator (rotor) (optional) The Channel Master 9521 is our best TV antenna rotor. It comes with the
outdoor motor and indoor control unit.
Rotor wire Rotor wire runs from the rotor motor near the antenna to the
location of the indoor control unit.
Antenna pre-amplifier/booster (optional) The pre-amplifier is designed to
be located near the antenna. It's purpose is to overcome
the signal loss that occurs when the signal travels from the antenna to the
TV or TV's. Highly recommended for use with long cable runs and or multiple
set applications.
Ground block and ground wire. See installation guide chapter five, TV antenna
grounding procedures.
I hope this is useful. All the prices are listed at the links provided above. Most all information needed to properly install a TV antenna is available on our web site. See our TV Antenna Source Products and Information page.If you have difficulty finding it or need help in anyway please don't hesitate to contact me. If you would like to discuss your particular installation in detail give me a call 1-800-528-9984.
Best Regards,
Denny
TV Antenna Source |
Multi directional Outdoor TV antenna system
I have tv stations in different directions and I have 3 tv's in my house. I would like to stay away from a tv antenna rotor. I used to see tv antennas with 2 or 3 antennas pointing in different directions so you could get all the channels without turning the antenna. Also it allows all the tv's to work on all the channels. Doesn't anyone do that anymore ? Not as much as they did in the past. There are two reasons, 1. In many cases the Winegard MS 2000 omnidirectional TV antenna has replaced the need for that type of antenna system. 2. There are very few people around who have the experience and knowledge to design a multi directional TV antenna system. I have designed and installed them for apartment building and private residences and still do today. If you or anyone else would like to discuss the design of a system for any particular location contact me at info@dennysantennaservice.com anytime, or call 1-800-528-9984 M-F 9:30am to 5pm E.S.T. TV Antenna Direction
Which end of the television antenna is the receiving end ? On a VHF/UHF TV antenna it's the narrow end that points toward the station. On the bow and screen Channel Master UHF antennas the side with the bows (some call them cat whiskers) points toward the station. You may want to visit pointing your TV antenna.
Denny
TV Antenna Source Updated since the above question was asked. I have created a web page to illistatrate antenna direction it can be viewed here: http://www.dennysantennaservice.com/TV_antenna_aiming.html |
TV Antenna Rotator (Rotor)
Installation
DENNY
WHAT SIZE PIPE SHOULD I USE ON THE ROTATOR TO THE ANTENNA AND
HOW HIGH SHOULD I GO WITH THE PIPE FROM THE ROTATOR TO THE TV
ANTENNA
THANKS
FARREL |
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Farrel,
The pipe diameter can be 1 1/4" to 1 1/2" OD. The length of
the pipe from the rotor to the TV antenna should be kept as short as
possible. I usually have a distance of 6" to 12" between
the two. The total length of the pipe will be determined by the 6"
or so that goes in the throat of the rotor and whether your antenna
is double boom. Total length is somewhere between 2 to 2 1/2 feet.
The reason I suggest keeping this portion of the pipe as short as
possible is to reduce the stress on the rotor. The longer this
portion of the pipe is the more stress it will put on the rotor
when the wind blows. If you need to increase the elevation of your
TV antenna do this with the pipe below the rotor. This will not add
stress to the rotating bearings. Also on our site you can find
installation help for rotors. On our home page click on professional installation guide scroll down that
page to the index, there you will find a section on rotors.
If I can help you more let me know.
Regards,
Denny
TV Antenna Source |
TV Antenna Selection Outdoor Vs. Indoor Attic Mount
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Help!!!!
I need an outdoor television antenna, but do not know which to choose. I live in Justin, TX. and am about 30-40 miles from the tv towers, also I live in a 2 story house and it is extremely windy here. I need a sturdy tv antenna and was wondering if I could install it in my attic. my brother said if it is in the attic I would lose 50% of the reception right off the bat. The majority of the hd broadcasts are on the uhf band but one of them, abc is on vhf. I would also like one that will receive fm signals. Sorry to be so long winded. any help is appreciated.
thanks again.
John
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Greetings John,
Your brother is partially right. You will lose some reception installing the TV antenna in the attic. How much depends on roofing and side wall materials. If your side walls or roof have metal material such as aluminum siding, foil faced insulation etc. your loss could be 50% or more. If they are wood, vinyl siding etc; the loss should be less than 20%.
If you choose to mount the TV antenna outside I recommend the Winegard HD 7082. It's very durable and would stand up to your windy conditions very well. It has plenty of gain to receive channels 30 t0 40 miles away and more.
In the attic you can save a few bucks and go with the Winegard PR 7037. It has about the same gain as the 7082 but its not built quite as durable.
Depending on how long your cable run or runs are or if you use a splitter to go to more than one TV you may want to add a antenna pre-amplifier, especially if you choose to mount in the attic.
Please feel free to contact me with any additional questions and thank you for visiting the TV Antenna Source.
Best Regards,
Denny
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What is the best digital TV antenna for long range reception
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Denny,
What do think is the best digital TV antenna available for VHF/UHF reception. Also it needs to be a digtal TV antenna.
Jay
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Greetings Jay,
I have tried a lot of TV antennas in my career and I have not found any that can outperform the the Winegard HD 7084P TV antenna. That doesn't mean everyone should purchase the 7084P. Many factors must be considered when determining which outdoor TV antenna to choose. A TV antenna and a digital TV antenna are one in the same, see HDTV antenna Fact or Fiction. If I can assist you further please do not hesitate to contact me. Best Regards,
Denny
TV Antenna Source
Update: The HD Stacker antenna will perform as well and is about half the size for less money.
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