Hello, FM experts: What's the best type of outdoor antenna for my location?
I'm looking to purchase a dedicated FM antenna, but they are becoming scarce. I want to match the best type to my location, but from what I have read, I seem to be in-between types for where I am. I live about six miles east of the Front Range mountains of Colorado. The main source for stations, is Denver, that's about 30 miles south by southeast, so no mountains in the way. Instead, there are rolling plains between me and the stations, so not flat.
I was thinking about getting a multi-element Yagi type with a rotor, but I don't have true line of sight, and there is a small cluster of trees on my property line and to the south, as I'm in a development.
Any thoughts?
Thanks, Kenny
I have a multi-element FM antenna in my attic, pointed at a local station. I am 60 miles east of NYC and when I had it on the roof of my prior home, Jonathan Schwartz came in fine on my Macintosh MR-78. What I HIGHLY recommend for whatever antenna you choose is the Magnum Dynalab Signal Sleuth. It is a FM signal amplifier that really works. Adds no noise but does amplify the signal. |
Clue50, I have found it difficult to pick one due to the scarcity of the choices these days which led me to th LP8. This indecision caused me to drop the ball, but getting a replacement is still lurking around in the back of my mind. I own the SE Engineering 879 bidirectional antenna that once replaced a directional Radio Shack that I had mounted on a rotor in the attic of my old home. The Radio Shack was terrific and provided strong clean signals. The SE Engineering is good, and that's what I'm living with today. When I moved to a new home, I left the Radio Shack in the attic. Stupid! So, I'm still scratching my head. Kenny |
Thanks vinyvalet, Looks like a nice product and very affordable! I have explored yogiboy's recommendation about the Rescue Electronics LP-8 (U.S.A.), and have been in contact with Paul the manufacturer. This looks like one seriously rugged design with good looking specs. And, Paul has provided me with some quality information. Where I live, we have these Chinook winds, that can gust over 100mph. This antenna is pricey, however. I'm going to continue to explore the LP-8. There are also a number of directional antennas still being made in Great Britain, but they're pricey and especially pricey to ship. Kenny |
http://www.mcmelectronics.com/product/30-2460 After an exhaustive search, this is the only FM antenna I could find currently for sale. It's working well for me. Your trees shouldn't be an issue. MCM also sells rotors and other antenna mounting accessories. Their customer service is excellent. |
FM antennas are slim pickins nowadays. It looks like the FM 6 will do the trick! http://www.antennacraft.net/Antennas/AntennasFM.html |
