Best TV antenna amplifier 2023 • 7 TV antenna amplifiers Reviews

What is a TV antenna amplifier?

An antenna amplifier is a small plastic box attached to the pole supporting the television antenna that helps to better distribute the signal to TVs in a home or building. With better reception, your TV set is able to display a better image and clearer sound. It is possible to distribute the TV signal to several televisions from a single amplifier.

It is very important to note that they can help in some situations, but there are some cases where they can actually harm your reception. If the antenna has poor reception, the amplifier will only help distribute this low-quality signal. You should also know that the excess power of an amplifier can produce “noise” that may impact the TV signal, so you should adjust the settings of the device until you find the right setting.

What types of TV antenna amplifiers are there?

It is important to know the difference between a preamplifier and a distribution amplifier. A preamplifier is mounted to the mast and amplifies the signal coming directly from the antenna. The advantage to this is the signal is amplified at its strongest point when it comes off at the antenna. A distribution amplifier is usually mounted indoors and is used when supplying a signal to multiple TVs. Here are some of the characteristics of each type of amplifier:

Mast amplifier

Needs to transform the power supply from 220 volts to 12 or 24 volts. The signal strength increase is between 30 and 40 decibels (dB). Some generate up to 50 dB. There are models that have up to a dozen output sockets. The amplifier is installed close to the signal source to avoid receiving a weak signal.

Indoor amplifiers

Generates a 16 dB to 24 dB increase in signal. Usually used to boost a weak signal for a specific device. They are normally used at the same time as other amplifiers. They are therefore considered after the installation of another type of amplifier. These are less expensive than mast amplifiers.

Shopping Criteria for TV Antenna Amplifiers

Of course, finding the best TV antenna amplifier may not be an easy task, since there is a vast number of similar devices with similar specifications but completely different performances of which you may not be aware. Nevertheless, do a little bit of research and read our advice. That’s why we have created this guide in the first place: to help users find their best match. We recommend the following shopping criteria to make a great purchase.

• Types
• Profit
• Frequency
• Outputs
• Power-to-quality ratio

Types

As mentioned above, there are two main types when it comes to amplifiers: mast and indoor. Install the amplifier as close to the antenna as possible. Place the indoor amplifier close to the television.

Make sure to not install any devices between your preamplifier and the power supply. These can block the voltage that is being sent up the cable to power the amp, which results in a reduced signal.  You can have a successful and better TV reception with either of the two types.

Profit

Decibels (dB) measure the level of gain generated by amplifiers. The mast antenna can offer a signal gain of between 30 dB and 40 dB, although some can reach up to 50 dB. However, they are only suitable for terrestrial television. The frequencies required to amplify a satellite signal are not compatible.

Indoor amplifiers generate a gain of between 16 dB and 24 dB. The task is sufficient and sometimes can even be excessive. You can also find indoor line amplifiers, which increase the signal already amplified by a large installation. These models reach up to 40 dB and are valid for satellite and direct terrestrial television (DTT).

Frequency

A television antenna, or TV aerial, is an antenna specifically designed for the reception of over-the-air broadcast television signals. The frequencies transmit from about 47 to 250 MHz and 470 to 960 MHz in different countries. Be sure to look for an amplifier that works in the frequency you need. You may find that both options serve your needs.

Outputs

Knowing how many outputs you need is the easiest factor to consider. All you need to do is locate the inputs on the televisions you want to connect to and purchase a device with the same number of outputs. It is possible that you may pay more than is necessary for the device if there are an excessive number of ports. It is also possible that the final signal quality that you obtain will be lower.

It is important to adjust the number of outputs to the demand you require. If you have two televisions, it is not worth buying an amplifier with more than two or three outputs. We only recommend this if the product has more features to offer. By saving on a product with just the right number of output ports, you will be able to invest that money in an item that has a higher quality in other aspects.

Power-to-Quality Ratio

You should not expect that the amplifier will improve the quality of the signal. TV antenna amplifiers boost the signal by giving it more strength, not improving its quality. This means if the quality is poor, an amplifier will make the poor quality signal more visible. A TV antenna amplifier will not solve your reception quality problems and may even exaggerate them.

TV aerial amplifiers and signal boosters do work. They can help overcome signal losses because of cable resistance and because of the splitting of signals to multiple TVs. However, they won’t miraculously convert a poor or weak TV signal into a good, reliable signal. When used right, they can fix your signal issues.

Related Links and Sources

• https://www.cnet.com/news/best-tv-antenna/
• https://www.wirelesshack.org/best-tv-antenna-over-the-air-signal-boosters.html
• https://www.electronics-notes.com/articles/antennas-propagation/tv-antenna/buying-best-aerial-amplifier-booster.php
• https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-tv-antenna/

FAQs

What are TV antenna amplifiers used for?

There is usually quite a considerable distance between the antenna and the TV. This can easily cause interference and the signal to become weaker. An amplifier is used to bridge the gap between the two without the use of a cable. It strengthens the signal and allows televisions to broadcast more clearly.

The amplifier will distribute the signal to multiple TV sets. It does not matter if the signal is weaker on one versus the other. The point of the amplifier is to distribute the signal between all sets.

Where is the best place to install a TV antenna amplifier?

It would be best to have your antenna placed thirty feet above ground level to give you the clearest over-the-air connection with a tower. For those looking for that height, outdoor antennas are usually a good place to start. You’ll want an amplified antenna if you’re thirty or more miles away from your local broadcast tower.

In regards to indoor amplifiers, place them in close proximity to the television. It should be stressed that these devices do not improve the quality of the signal, they simply enhance the distribution of the signal. An amplifier will not solve a low-quality signal, but it can solve a weak signal.

How is a TV antenna amplifier installed?

In most cases, it is not difficult to install a TV antenna amplifier. It will come with its own set of instructions that should be easy to follow. You don’t need to be a handyman or an electrician; all you need are some basic tools, such as a screwdriver to fix the cable into the input and output connectors.

Install a TV antenna signal booster in-line; that is, the cable must connect to the input and output of the booster. The amplifier body is placed on the antenna mast and attached to the antenna mast using the included U-bolt clamp. Some indoor amplifiers offer the option of hanging them on the wall while others are connected directly to the electrical current.

Is it necessary to call a technician to solve a signal problem?

Most antenna boosters will come with a detailed set of instructions that explain how to install the device. However, keep in mind that outdoor antennas require you to step on the rooftop, so keep a ladder closeby. To eliminate the risk of serious injury, call a professional for help if you are intimidated by the thought of climbing on the roof.

Specialized television technicians use a field meter to check the exact quantity of the signal and its quality. They are able to calibrate your TV and your antenna to improve the quality of the signal that you are receiving.

What are the most recognized TV antenna amplifier brands?

ANTOP Smartpass Amplifier is a highly recognized brand for antenna amplifiers. Although it doesn’t bring any advanced features, a large majority of people use them and they present an overall great value for money.

ANTOP Smartpass Amplifier is designed in the USA and it comes with a modest one-year warranty that is suitable, considering its very low price. Overall, if you want the best TV antenna amplifier that is powered through the USB port for a small amount of money, this company is a good option.