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Twin lead or coax for downlead from FM antenna?

I have about a 25-30' run from my attic antenna to my tuner. The antenna has twin lead (300 ohm) output and the tuner has a coax only input (75 ohm). I can either use twin lead and a transformer at the tuner end, or put the transformer at the antenna and then run RG-6. Any idea on which would be better in terms of signal loss, noise, and longevity? I understand that these criteria may be mutually exclusive. Tuner is a Yamaha T-85 and antenna is a Winogard X type omnidirectional. I do not want to fuss with a directional/rotor set up.
128x128swampwalker
aaronm's avatar
aaronm
99 posts
 
Swampwalker,
I suggest using the best 75 ohm cable you're willing to afford for the down lead. At the antenna, use a 300-75 ohm balun that has a "weather-proof" boot on it. You may want to also use a sealant to keep the moisture out. This will give you a very long-lived, quality lead without picking up other noise. I would recommend a quad shielded RG6 cable. Any Radio Shack will have it. Best Regards, Aaron
abstract7
541 posts
 
Coax run should shield noise and give you a better overall signal.
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker OP
5,138 posts
 
OK, thanks guys. Since the cable is in my attic which is quite dry, weatherproofing should not be an issue. Now I just have to get my butt up thru the scuttle and switch over to the coax (RG-6).
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