amplified tv antenna

[karma]

my cable stinks so im geting rid of it. i was looking at geting a
amplified antenna. i was wondering if anyone has made one
and what would i need?

links or whatever you can give


thanks......

[jackinnj]

first try a better antenna -- they add S but not N. A Radio Shack log-periodic is going to be much better than a noisy preamplifier. Ditto for FM.

[leadbelly]

One type of antenna always worth a try (almost free). Take an RG59 or RG6 patch cable. Cut off one end. Strip off the outer shell and braid 3 ft from the cut end, so that just the solid core and insulator around it remain. Form the stripped end into a circular loop, secure with tape, and hang the loop high, in a window, etc.

Another tip: the best antenna amplification I have ever had was with a 10db amp sold as a cable splitter buffer. Seemed to give a perfect S to N balance for better reception. All other antennas or amps with 20db or higher gain didn't work as well for me.