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Old 04-26-2019, 01:58 PM   #1
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Default Need TV Antenna Upgrade

I am looking for better TV reception than my old Winegard batwing gives. Any recommendations?
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Old 04-26-2019, 02:12 PM   #2
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I think the batwing is a pretty good antenna (for its size). The amplifier is needed in most locations so make sure that is working. Aiming it can be a bit of a nuisance.

On my class A, I often don't even raise it up or aim it when wanting just a few channels. The amp has to be powered on though. There's a Sensar addon available & I added it when the rig was new to me.

I have a King Jack antenna on the B van and I thinks it is pretty good too. For the best performance it has to be aimed like the Winegard.
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Old 04-26-2019, 02:38 PM   #3
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I use the Winegard automatic. It has atrocious reliability as I've had two replaced but when it works, it works very well. Maybe reliability has improved.
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Old 04-26-2019, 03:15 PM   #4
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We had the batwing for quite a while and now have a Wingaurd lower, square one put onto the shortened mast. We only changed for clearance to solar panels as the batwing worked well. Performance is similar, I think.



I would agree that it may be tough to find a better one than the batwing.


Is you amplifier working well as they can sometimes die or get weak. Also the roof cable attachment to the antenna can corrode and reduce signal.
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Old 04-26-2019, 05:38 PM   #5
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You can enter your zip code at TV Fool: TV Fool

Both the Winegard & Jack antennas pull in channels approx 45 miles distant from here at home. Perfectly clear digital reception. There's a station 70 miles away that I can't get though so 50 to 60 miles might be the max you can expect.
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Old 04-26-2019, 06:27 PM   #6
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If you have an old batwing there is an add on element to improve UHF reception where most of the digital channels are located. Never had any trouble getting reception after adding it to our older batwing.
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Old 04-27-2019, 03:05 PM   #7
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gregmchugh, what "add on element" do you own? I would like to try one but would really like your input as an owner because there are several out there.
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Old 04-27-2019, 04:22 PM   #8
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The Winegard batwing on my Interstate was mostly gone when I bought it. You can replace the entire batwing head with the new, improved "digital" version for $52. The little "antenna" part is available separately for older batwings, but it's $30, so for $22 you get all new guts and electronics.

www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003ZOH63W/

http://www.amazon.com/Winegard-RV-WI...dp/B001U2DPUE/
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Old 04-27-2019, 04:40 PM   #9
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Doneworking View Post
gregmchugh, what "add on element" do you own? I would like to try one but would really like your input as an owner because there are several out there.
Hepcat showed the links to the Wingman UHF add on that attaches to your current antenna and a complete replacement antenna head that already includes the UHF add on. If your current antenna is in good shape the add on is a simpler install.
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Old 04-27-2019, 05:14 PM   #10
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Thanks, gregmchugh. I will order the whole new shebang today. Very helpful post.

Paul
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Old 05-02-2019, 04:33 PM   #11
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Previous owner put in one of these sheet antennas and it works pretty well. No brand markings on it.
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