Antenna Elements

Generally, a single-band antenna with more elements will give you more gain (able to pick up weaker signals) and be more directional (that is, more critical where it is pointed, and able to reject unwanted signals from the sides better). There are no specs listed for the Antennacraft to compare with the Winegard, whose gain figures are wildly optimistic compared to typical four-element Yagi antennas that I know.

In general, for similar Yagi type antennas, more elements, more length equals more gain and sharper directivity. If the stations that you want to receive are in different directions, you might want to consider a rotator. I think that the 6 element antenna listed is similar (or the same) as the one Radio Shack sold for many years, lots of "bang for the buck".
Note: the 4 element antenna includes a 75 ohm transformer, which you will have to buy extra to use the 6 element antenna with coax feedline.


jr

Would these yagis perform worth a hoot if stood up vertically? I might like to try hiding one behind a big tapestry I have hanging above the fireplace in my living room. I currently have a T-wire for an antenna hidden there.

bwam, I agree with jr's comments. If you want to receive distant signals, get as much metal in the air, clear of other objects, as possible. Install a rotator unless you only want signals from a specific direction/location. Yes, six elements should be better than four in this situation.

Stillwater, yes, these antennas can work fine if mounted vertically. FM radio signals work with both horiontal antennas (like house roof TV antennas) and verticals (like car antennas). A big limitation with using one against a wall as you describe, though, is that it will only work well in one direction that is parallel to the wall you choose (either "left" or "right" when you are looking at your tapestry, depending on which way you mount its "front"). Also, it would not work as well as an outdoor-located antenna, but it could certainly work better than plain pieces of wire, dipoles (like your "T-wire"), and other simple indoor antennas.

"bwam" - about your question on 6 vs. 4 elements, it's really Winegard vs. Antennacraft. Winegard is "usually" considered a better made antenna and they demand a higher price the market. That said, Antennacraft units are well made, maybe a little lighter construction than Winegard, but good antennas. However you plan to mount one of these antennas, they are large and can prove to be a challange if space is limited.