The best TV antennas for a summer residence with an amplifier for 2021

Updated: 02/19/2021 18:46:30

Expert: Bogdan Shevchuk

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

For those for whom a country house is not only an impromptu warehouse for gardening tools, but also a completely tolerable temporary home, it is important that this house has at least some comfort items, and preferably a connection with civilization. At least just for the reception. One of the most important things in this case is television. You can arrange reception of many Russian and foreign channels in a variety of ways. A satellite dish is not necessary for this, although we will consider such options in this article.

Expertology magazine specialists have prepared for you a selection of the best antennas and kits for receiving terrestrial and satellite digital television in a wide variety of geographical conditions.

Rating of the best antennas for a summer residence

TV via Internet

Is it possible to watch TV programs using the Internet? After all, the development of modern means of communication allows you to enter the World Wide Web from almost any locality in our country.

Can. But it's not that simple. The flow of information transmitted when watching a video is very large. This can be provided either by a cable connection or by good quality mobile communications (3G or 4G). Moreover, only cable will provide truly unlimited access: mobile operators’ unlimited tariffs still have restrictions that make it almost impossible to watch TV programs (for example, the data transfer speed sharply decreases after exceeding a certain limit). The included traffic package may be enough only for occasional viewing: you won’t be able to watch programs for hours with mobile access.

Question answer

How to increase the number of kilowatts per site?

Moreover, even if the connection is excellent and there are no restrictions, “explaining” to a regular TV how to show your favorite series is not the easiest task. Only smart TVs (Smart TV) “are able” to work with the Internet. Older models will again have to be connected through their corresponding, separately purchased set-top box. Most major television channels broadcast from their websites, which you can connect to using Smart TV applications. As an option, you can watch TV shows directly from websites not on the TV, but on the computer, or use the TV as its monitor.

The cost of such television is low, but it will not be possible to calculate it separately, since it will be included in the subscription fee for all Internet services.

The best inexpensive terrestrial antennas for a summer residence

The first selection of our review will be devoted to antennas that can be purchased at a minimal price, and will be sufficient to receive a signal. Here we’ll immediately clarify that such models are for the most part suitable for areas with reliable signal reception, where television operates almost from a bare wire. Their low price does not mean that the antennas are of poor quality - they just have a more simplified design and, for the most part, do not contain active elements.

Here and further we will consider only street, outdoor antennas, despite the fact that many dachas in the vicinity of large cities are located in the area of ​​​​a powerful signal, sufficient for it to be picked up by a small indoor antenna.

Indoor or outdoor

An indoor antenna for a summer residence is used to cover a short communication radius. Installed in summer cottages located in close proximity to the repeater. Picks up a signal in the suburbs, near highways and highways. If your home is near a power line, the signal may become intermittent, making the picture less clear.

You can make an indoor TV antenna for your dacha yourself. Attach the aluminum wire to the corresponding connector on the TV and secure it to the ceiling with a thread. Carefully move the antenna, identifying the places where the signal is best received.

The higher the indoor antenna is located, the better the image will be transmitted to the television receiver. Signal reception increases near window and door openings.

An external antenna is installed at dachas located more than 10-15 km from the repeater. It is indispensable in summer cottages located in lowlands, on hilly areas, surrounded by forests.

The best passive terrestrial antennas for a summer residence

The second selection in the ranking of the best antennas for the garden according to Expertology magazine does not necessarily represent the cheapest models, but they are still relatively inexpensive due to their passive form factor. By passivity here, as mentioned above, we mean the absence of auxiliary electronics - an amplifier, noise suppressor and other additions. Such antennas are completely suitable for areas with reliable signal reception, and if the dacha is located close to a television center or repeater, and even more so in the direct line of sight of the tower, then it may not make sense to overpay for additional functions.

Hyundai H-TAE220

Rating: 4.9

First, let's look at a compact external antenna, which is the closest "relative" of the H-TAE140, described in the previous group. It is also produced by the Chinese company Topstar Electronics.

The antenna design is made of aluminum with a thin polymer coating, that is, it is not afraid of an aggressive external environment. In the rear part there is a simple but well-designed reflector, which promotes reliable signal reception.

The antenna is extremely compact, the tip is slightly larger than the “blade” of the reflector. But due to a well-thought-out design, even this “half-room” option provides good and stable signal reception. Designed for the UHF wave range from 470 to 862 MHz. It can receive both analog and digital signals, but in the vast majority of cases it is used for terrestrial digital television devices within the framework of the DVB-T/DVB-T2 standards.

The antenna's own outgoing resistance is 75 Ohms. By itself, it is capable of amplifying the broadcast signal within 15 dB.

The antenna package includes only a waterproof cap. There are no plugs or cables included, only fasteners. In this regard, this model is almost identical to the H-TAE140. But it is also extremely easy to install, assembles in a matter of minutes, and the fastening lasts for many years.

Advantages

• compact;
• light;
• effective reflector;
• "long-range";
• simple installation;
• reliable fastenings.

Flaws

• equipment.

GoDigital AV 9290

Rating: 4.8

The second passive antenna in this selection is also Russian-made, only with a more sonorous brand - GoDigital, model AV 9290. The GoDigital brand is Russian, and the products are mostly made in China. In addition to antennas, the range also includes accessories - cables, plugs, etc.

AV 9290 from GoDigital is an outdoor UHF antenna designed for receiving VHF signals, analog and digital, and in the context of modern television systems - for DVB-T2.

Key technical specifications are as follows. The current frequency reception range is from 470 to 790 MHz. These are, of course, conditional figures, meaning that in this range the signal reception is the most reliable. Beam width - 24 deg. The most common characteristic impedance value for this type of antenna is 75 Ohms.

The antenna itself is capable of amplifying the signal by a maximum of 11 dB. Its receiving capabilities are comparable to a radius of up to 50 km from a television center or repeater with direct visibility or with minimal interference. When placed in a lowland or in the presence of clear obstacles (tall buildings, elevators), it would be better to look for another antenna, or the same one, but with an amplifier.

The signal reception radius indicated above is an estimate, and is calculated based on the conditional power of the transmitting station of 5 kW.

As far as the physical characteristics of the antenna are concerned, there is little to criticize. The structure is made of aluminum, the parts hold tightly, and the antenna can function without problems in very difficult weather conditions. The dimensions of the assembled antenna are 95x25x25cm, packaged weight is 655g. The packaging itself is good quality, cardboard and safe enough for shipment. The mounting kit allows you to easily change the polarization of the antenna from horizontal to vertical and back. It is connected to the TV receiver via a standard F-connector.

Advantages

• robust construction;
• wide reflector;
• relatively large range of action;
• easy assembly and installation;
• withstands harsh weather conditions.

Flaws

• equipment.

Selenga 131F

Rating: 4.7

The review continues with another high-quality and well-thought-out antenna from an engineering point of view of the Russian specialized brand Selenga, namely the passive model 131F without an amplifier.

This antenna is already attractive due to its appearance, but it is obvious that all these design elements are not made for beauty. Selenga 131F consisting of several functional modules. The central axis consists of three central rods with eight transverse ribs on each. The ribs have polymer plugs on both sides; in general, the antenna is well protected by plastic elements in the most vulnerable places and can withstand significant wind loads. The only thing is that the thickness of the main aluminum rod, and therefore its strength, is questionable, but there have been no specific complaints from users about the breakage of this part in the wind.

Selenga 131F is designed to receive a UHF signal in the range from 470 to 860 MHz. Connects to a television receiver (receiver, tuner) via a standard F-plug. The total length of the antenna is 123cm.

According to official factory data, Selenga 131F is capable of amplifying the signal by itself within 18 dB.

The delivery set of this model includes all fasteners necessary for reliable and durable installation. Moreover, the screws have wings, so during installation you may not even need a wrench or any similar device, and you can easily tighten the fastener by hand.

According to test results, the Selenga 131F antenna reliably receives a signal for T2 digital television tens of kilometers from the Ostankino TV tower. From less powerful repeaters in other regions of Russia, in the absence of physical barriers, the radius of the reliable reception zone can also be 20, 30 or more kilometers without an amplifier. In lowlands, you may need an amplifier to receive all, and not just part of, the channels of terrestrial digital television and even radio.

Advantages

• durable folding design;
• simple and convenient assembly;
• dense waterproof plugs on all vulnerable parts;
• large reflector (potentially increased signal amplification);
• resistance to harsh natural factors;
• noticeably more powerful than many other passive models.

Flaws

• thin metal of the main rod.

LUMAX DA2505P

Rating: 4.6

And the selection of passive models without a vision amplifier of the best antennas for a summer residence, according to Expertology, is completed by an interesting model, which is in many ways similar to the previous one. This is not so much a borrowing as a consequence of the natural progression of engineering in the direction of successful solutions.

The antenna is slightly larger than the previous one, similar in shape - 540x1030x550mm, quite massive - 1940. It is also made of polished aluminum, only this time it is thicker and stronger, so that the structure on the mast will confidently withstand wind loads.

LUMAX DA2505P is manufactured according to the “zero potential antenna” principle. This refers to the galvanic connection of all directors to the supporting rod. The fastening of the directors is extremely reliable - using a screw connection with a ribbed notch. This allows you to operate the antenna for many years fixed outside at temperature changes from -40 to +50 degrees Celsius without any temperature changes in the mounting.

All vulnerable parts of the antenna are protected by plugs and caps made of durable ABS plastic, which easily withstands exactly the same range of ambient temperatures as indicated above. The angle of inclination in this model is not rigidly fixed, and it can be changed.

Some special characteristics are worth mentioning separately. This model is optimized for frequency response for the range from 470 to 862 MHz. Signal attenuation in the broadcast range of LTE transmitters is no more than 9.8 dB. The antenna's own signal gain can vary from 10.5 dB for a frequency of 471 MHz to 14.9 dB for 855 MHz. The standing wave ratio is less than or equal to 1.5. Beam width – 40 degrees. Own resistance - 75 Ohms.

Advantages

• reliable signal reception within the specified limits;
• quality of materials;
• well thought out design;
• simple and convenient assembly;
• variable tilt angle;
• attractive appearance;
• plastic protection on vulnerable areas.

Flaws

• no fundamental deficiencies were found.

How to install?

Correct installation of the device has a significant impact on the quality of the received signal and sound. Before starting any work, you need to determine the direction in which the nearest transmitter is located so that access to it is as safe as possible.

Installation step by step

For proper installation, you will need a set of tools (hammer, screwdriver, drill, wire cutters and wrenches), as well as a ladder and appropriate insurance.

The assembly of the antenna mast itself can take place, among other things, on chimney clamps or on the wall of a building. Very often, installation of such devices is found on balconies, which is the simplest and most convenient solution.

After strengthening the mast, you can begin to secure the antenna itself, make sure the quality of the fastenings and prevent the cable from being clamped.

The best active terrestrial antennas for a summer residence

The third category in the review of the best antennas for summer cottages according to Expertology magazine represents much more powerful solutions - active antennas. They are actually antennas with electronics modules, which, in turn, can perform the functions of an amplifier, noise suppressor, filter, or all together. In fact, an active antenna is a kit consisting of the antenna itself and associated electronics. But often amplifiers and other units are “tightly” attached to the metal frame of the antenna, and it is impossible or extremely difficult to replace them. This is done for many reasons, including the purpose of protecting the electronic “filling” from precipitation and subsequent failure. Nevertheless, there are enough antenna models on the market where the amplifier or other electronic unit can be easily replaced with any other suitable one.

Finally, the main thing is that active antennas are used where conventional passive antennas are not enough for reliable and stable signal reception. These may be areas very remote from the transmitting station, the low power of this very station, the presence of physical barriers or signal reception lines, the location of the dacha in a lowland, and the like.

Locus Meridian-60AF Turbo

Rating: 4.9

We begin this part of our review with the Meridian-60AF Turbo antenna from the Locus brand. This is a fairly powerful active antenna in itself, even without regard to the amplification electronics. The main material is polished aluminum. Connects to the receiver via a standard F-connector. The main area of ​​use is the reception of dozens of television channels in DVB-T/T2 standards.

Antenna dimensions - 50x55x132cm, weight - 1.5 kg. The design is composite with wide reflectors at the rear and consists of a total of 60 elements. The antenna is designed to receive signals in the range from 470 to 790 MHz, which roughly corresponds to channels 21 to 60. The standing wave ratio is 1.8. The characteristic impedance is standard for this type of antenna - 75 Ohms.

The antenna is equipped with a patented balanced amplifier. In its pure form, it allows you to further enhance the signal by another 3 dB compared to conventional amplifiers, which are often included with T2 antennas for the mass consumer. The 3dB value may not look very impressive at first glance, but in fact the difference is very significant, and such an amplifier can significantly expand the range of reliable reception and the stability of the “picture”.

In absolute terms, the gain of a standard amplifier is at least 31 or 36 dB, depending on the installation conditions. Noise figure – 0.7dB. To operate, the amplifier requires a 5V power supply with a current of about 40mA. But the Locus Meridian-60AF Turbo does not include a power supply. This decision is not entirely clear from all points of view, but it must be kept in mind when ordering this kit.

Additional information - the manufacturer recommends using a LI series power injector when operating the finished assembly.

Advantages

• quality of materials;
• strong build;
• thoughtful design;
• reliable signal reception;
• high-quality and efficient standard amplifier.

Flaws

• The power supply is not included in the delivery package.

GoDigital AV 6520

Rating: 4.8

The second number in this collection we present to you is the antenna of the brand, which was already mentioned above. This time it will be the most powerful active antenna in the GoDigital line - model AV 6520.

Like all the previous ones, this antenna is designed for outdoor installation and reception of an on-air digital television signal of the European DVB-T/T2 standard. This means an active package with a built-in powerful low-noise amplifier. To operate the amplifier, you need a separate 5V power supply, and the power supply is not included in the package.

Structurally, the AV 6520 is a fairly massive triplex antenna with three traverses. The main material is light and durable aluminum with plastic protective plugs in vulnerable areas. This combination ensures stability under natural loads and durability of the structure.

The antenna body assembly contains directors, a loop vibrator and two reflector panels. Largely thanks to massive reflectors, the antenna is capable of receiving a signal in difficult geographical conditions, where the line of sight is hampered by forests, hilly terrain, mountains, and tall buildings.

In active mode, with a connected amplifier and a tuned signal, the range can reach 120 km. The gain in combination with an amplifier is 44dB.

The antenna is supplied disassembled in a compact box. Assembling all the elements is extremely convenient thanks to the “gripty” shape of the screws and precisely fitted connections.

Advantages

• quick and easy assembly;
• strong and reliable design;
• reliable and stable signal reception;
• signal reception range up to 120 km;
• the most powerful in the GoDigital line;
• ability to receive signals well in lowlands and other difficult conditions.

Flaws

• no power supply included.

GAL Super summer resident

Rating: 4.7

The next antenna in the review of the best options of 2021 according to Expertology even in its name contains a hint of the right choice. This is an all-wave antenna GAL Super-dacha resident, which combines the capabilities of antennas of different specializations, and, if possible, can literally “save” a resident of a private house, around whom a high-rise building has suddenly been built in a short time. Made in China.

The antenna structure is made of steel. A protective polymer coating has been applied, which significantly increases resistance to climatic factors, and hence durability. The overall dimensions of the structure are 18x10x3.2cm, weight - 2500g. Supplied in a package with dimensions 0.085x0.675x0.27m. Total weight including packaging – 3 kg.

The antenna is designed to receive VHF meter wave signals with frequencies from 174 to 230, UHF decimeter waves - 470-862 MHz, as well as FM (frequency modulation). All this means that the model is capable of receiving digital television, analog signals, and ultra-high-frequency radio stations.

The distribution of antenna gain power is as follows: for the meter wave range (VHF/MV) – 20 dB, for UHF – 25 dB, for VHF – 33 dB. Gain power adjustment is not provided.

In active mode with the USSh-2A-DX amplifier connected in the supporting box, the antenna is capable of amplifying the received signal in the range from 28 to 36 dB, depending on installation conditions. The amplifier is powered from the mains via a 12V adapter.

Also included is a standard 6 meter long television cable. This model comes with an official factory warranty of 6 months.

Advantages

• durable steel structure;
• protective covering;
• wide range coverage;
• power adapter included;
• TV cable 6 meters included;
• official warranty 6 months.

Flaws

• not noted.

Attention!

In 2021, the Ministry of Communications, RTRS and all channels plan to completely shut down analogue signal broadcasting in Russia. Now we are talking about the first half of 2019, but the issue with a specific moment has not yet been resolved, and perhaps it will be different in different regions. But by spring, it is advisable for all owners of old TV models in private homes to acquire DVB-T2 format receivers.

At the same time, those who have satellite dishes or receive television via cable (for example, in apartment buildings) do not have to worry - nothing will change for them yet.

What is the best way to get internet to your dacha? More details

The best satellite dishes (kits) for a summer residence

The fourth and final selection of the best antennas for a summer residence in 2020, according to Expertology magazine, is dedicated to satellite television sets. This is a good solution even for those areas where it is possible to install DVB-T2 digital television receiving equipment, since the European standard does not cover all TV channels that may be of interest to the user. For those areas where there is simply no T2 signal, a satellite dish with the appropriate package from the operator will be the only option for installing home multi-channel digital television.

Tricolor TV

Rating: 4.9

And first in this selection we will consider the offer of the Tricolor TV company. Hereinafter, by antenna we will mean a parabolic dish for receiving a signal from a satellite. And we will also understand that the antenna itself is useless in the context of satellite television operators - we need additional equipment and a tariff plan. In this spirit, we will review the three most popular Russian satellite television operators.

And one more clarification - Tricolor TV, as well as other operators, provide not only satellite television services, but many other things, for example, the Internet or cellular communications. But for the purposes of this review, we will focus specifically on television.

The equipment that Tricolor TV representatives install for a new subscriber is mostly produced in Russia, and is least affected by fluctuations in the ruble exchange rate and all sorts of shocks on world exchanges. This is one of the main factors that Tricolor TV, even after raising prices, remains the most inexpensive among the “heavyweights” of satellite television.

As of March 2021, the company offers 5 options for satellite television sets:

1. option with a UHD receiver - provides the ability to watch channels in ultra-high 4K quality and Tricolor's own interactive services - pausing the program, rewinding, rewinding, saving an archive of programs for a week.
2. option for two TVs - you can watch hundreds of TV channels on two TV receivers with all the above-described service capabilities of Tricolor.
3. the option with an HD receiver is the same as for the option with a UHD receiver, but only the “picture” resolution will be lower and the monthly subscription fee will be less. For those whose TV does not support 4K resolution, this is the optimal and rational option.
4. a specialized version with an HD receiver and a 500GB hard drive; All of the above service functions of Tricolor are valid. The hard drive is external.
5. option for TVs with a CI+ connector - involves connecting a parabolic antenna and watching programs in UHD quality without a separate receiver.

An important point is that most of the federal Russian channels are provided free of charge as part of any of the services.

Installation of Tricolor TV equipment is often carried out by company employees, but if desired, such a kit can be installed independently. If you have not too specialized skills, this will not be a problem.

Advantages

• low tariffs;
• hundreds of programs;
• Russian federal channels – free;
• the ability to connect without a separate receiver if you have an appropriate TV;
• a set of service functions;
• quite high quality of broadcasts.

Flaws

• may not too delicately impose new digital equipment to replace serviceable and compatible old ones.

NTV-Plus

Rating: 4.8

Another super popular Russian satellite television operator is NTV-Plus. Just like Tricolor TV, it provides the subscriber with equipment for connecting and receiving television channels, including a satellite dish, tuner and all the necessary accessories.

It’s even easier for the average user to understand NTV-Plus services. As of March 2021, NTV-Plus provides two types of package services: Economy package and Basic. The first includes 76 channels, including several federal ones, TNT, MATCH! and others. The second is already much more expanded, and includes 187 channels. But the list of available channels within the NTV-Plus offer is not limited to package offers alone. If desired, you can connect any thematic packages of TV channels for every taste for an additional fee. The Economy package will need to be activated for at least one year, but its price is more than affordable - in March 2020 - 750 rubles per year.

As with the previous operator, in NTV-Plus the entire service part is fully operational - pausing the program, rewinding, archive, etc. You can watch your favorite programs via the satellite platform on any other devices, including smartphones and tablets.

Advantages

• affordable basic rates;
• flexible approach to connecting paid channels and services;
• quality equipment;
• a set of service functions;
• quite high quality of broadcasts.

Flaws

• Paid and not always effective technical assistance.

MTS

Rating: 4.7

We will complete our review with another domestic satellite television provider, which provides subscribers with their own parabolic antenna and everything necessary to receive hundreds of TV channels in high quality in any corner of the country.

Here the company carries out a division of services. So, for example, when you connect to an unlimited Internet service, satellite TV is provided “automatically”. When ordering satellite TV as a separate service, the user has a flexible choice of equipment type. So, for example, you can choose a large parabolic antenna with a diameter of 0.9 meters or a smaller one - 0.6 meters, if conditions allow you to ensure reliable signal reception from the satellite. Moreover, MTS even gives a potential subscriber the opportunity to use his own antenna if he already has one.

As of March 2021, MTS operates a basic package that includes 201 digital satellite television channels, 35 in HD quality and two in Ultra HD 4K. In addition, you can connect any or several of seven (as of March 2021) thematic television packages of channels for a small additional payment per month from 50 rubles (Children’s) to 380 rubles (Match! Football three channels).

Since MTS is initially a cellular operator, the package of services naturally contains marketing gimmicks (in a good way) to attract new users with MTS mobile communications, and not just television.

Advantages

• you can connect television with your own antenna;
• flexible tariffs and conditions;
• there are channels in HD quality and 4K;
• SIM card for mobile Internet in addition to an unlimited tariff.

Flaws

• There are difficulties with self-configuration.

Attaching the cable to the equipment

Choose a branded cable SAT 50 or SAT 703. The clarity of the image and sound depends on the quality of the cable. Do not purchase wire from dubious suppliers. Before purchasing, read the safety certificate; the product must pass the necessary quality control.

During the installation of the antenna, the cable is lowered down the mast, secured with clamps every 40-70 cm. Having lowered the cable to the roof level, it is necessary to stretch it along the ridge and bring it to the bracket, which is fixed near the window opening. Having fixed the wire on the bracket, you need to lead the cable into the room by inserting it through the hole in the window frame.

Drill the hole in the window frame with an upward angle. This prevents raindrops from entering the room.

If the external antenna for the TV is inactive, and the amplifier is installed in the attic, then the cable from the antenna must first be routed to it, and then brought to the TV. When laying the cable, avoid bending and twisting. Do not pinch the wire with staples or clamps, as this may degrade picture and sound quality.

Before starting work, lubricate all bolts, nuts and antenna connections with Movil or Litol. The treatment helps to increase the service life of the antenna and protects parts from oxidation and rust.