View Full Version : Is the Terk TV5 a decent directional antenna?


preach
07-09-08, 10:16 AM
Basically what I'm looking for is an indoor antenna that can get decent reception from the majority of the broadcast towers in my area. The good thing for me is that the majority (like 90%+) of all of the stations are classified as "yellow uhf" and are within 18 miles of my house.

With that said, I've read a lot of good reviews for the Terk TV5. Is it a decent directional antenna, since the broadcast signals would be coming from the same location? Since it's indoor, and considering it's location in my house, the signal would have to pass through 1 exterior wall and 2 interior walls as well.

SkiSmuggs
07-09-08, 10:21 AM
Check EV's thread on indoor antennas in the sticky section.

texasbrit
07-09-08, 10:53 AM
Basically what I'm looking for is an indoor antenna that can get decent reception from the majority of the broadcast towers in my area. The good thing for me is that the majority (like 90%+) of all of the stations are classified as "yellow uhf" and are within 18 miles of my house.

With that said, I've read a lot of good reviews for the Terk TV5. Is it a decent directional antenna, since the broadcast signals would be coming from the same location? Since it's indoor, and considering it's location in my house, the signal would have to pass through 1 exterior wall and 2 interior walls as well.

It's a pretty poor antenna. There's some info in the sticky mentioned in the last post.
If you have UHF-only stations in the same direction then the Philips/Zenith Silver Sensor is probably the best basic design. Try the unamplified version (HDTV1, or the Terk "clone" HDTVi) first.
Best choice would be a CM4220 or DB2 if you have room for them.

Scooper
07-09-08, 10:55 AM
Two brands to avoid in the A/V big box store - "Monster Cable" and "Terk".
At least Monster Cable is only overpriced and they generally work. If you need an antenna - get something from an antenna maker that's well known and respected here.

ziggy29
07-09-08, 11:13 AM
Terks in general are overpriced and underperforming.

EscapeVelocity
07-09-08, 12:20 PM
Terk has some excellent products. But the TV-5 is not recommended.

schroedk
07-09-08, 12:42 PM
Terks in general are overpriced and underperforming.

As with everything else, mileage may vary. I'm using a Terk HDTVa inside, and picking up stations from about 65 miles away at about 60-70% (enough for a clear, steady picture and audio). I would benefit more from an attic or rooftop antenna where I live, but really don't want to deal with the hassle and aesthetic compromise (rooftop). Plus, I get ABS, Fox, CBS, and Fox from NY/LA with directv (since I "shouldn't" be able to get those OTA).

EscapeVelocity
07-09-08, 12:44 PM
The Terk TV-5 is not very directional either.