Antenna options looking@Winegard HD7698P, Tvfool link inside

[raadkins16]

I am looking to ditch my Verizon Fios and go with something that can give me some free hdtv channels to watch. Although I love FIOS, I don't watch it a lot and the price adds up.

I would rather mount the antenna in the attic, but if the roof is a must, so be it.

TVfool link for my location.. --> http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wrapper&Itemid=29&q=id%3d27eefef8e67c0a

I guess I will need to check into some basic cable as I can't seem to get my wife to stop watching the E channel. Wish I could get that for free as well as it is about all she watches. I just want the hd local channels to enjoy on my Samsung plasma.

Let me know your thoughts on antenna options. Looking at the Winegard HD7698P right now.

I also really like the Antennas Direct options as well. Antennaweb shows that for most channels I am 10 miles and antenna type is yellow uhf with only one channel showing red uhf. Not sure how that should have an effect on my antenna choice.

[tigerbangs]

At the distance that you are from the Richmond stations, an HD-7698P would be severe overkill: your signal strengths are VERY strong for most of the available stations. if this was my installation, I would start with a Winegard HD-7694P aimed at 190 degrees. I am always leery about attic installations, because there is so much in an attic that can mess up TV signals, especially in strong-signal areas. HVAC equipment and ducting, foil-backed insulation, slate or metal roofing and/or stucco or aluminum siding can play havoc with TV signals. If you were willing to mount an HD-7694pP on your roof, you'd be guaranteed excellent TV reception. You didn't mention how many TV sets you plan, to run, however, and you may need a distribution amplifier/splitter if you plan to run more than 2 TV sets from the antenna.

[raadkins16]

Thanks alot for the insight! We only have one tv and I don't plan on adding anymore. I also had a question regarding local tv service. Fios has a local basic plan of $12 a month that they offer. Since my tv has qam and ayec tuners built in I have heard that you can get HD signs just from that. But I guess with the antenna I would basically get the same thing for free after I pay and install the antenna?

[tigerbangs]

ALL FIOS requites the use of a converter box: the built-in tuners in your TV set won't work with FIOS. they WILL Work with cable TV, however, if your tuner is QAM capable. You can't get the "E" network off-air, no matter what you do, but the major networks will come in for just the cost of the antenna. You need to weigh your internet options, too if you have FIOS or cable internet.