Do you feel like your TV signal is bad? Are you not able to watch your favourite shows? This is probably because your TV antenna isn’t able to catch the digital signals from the TV transmitter. This can be a result of your antenna being far away from the transmitter. Having irregular or bad signals can prevent you from getting important broadcast news and information as well. So it’s not always just an issue of entertainment. But there’s a solution for this and that’s to get an amplifier or preamplifier.
A preamplifier or antenna-mounted amplifier is used for overcoming any loss plaguing the coaxial-cable present between the TV set and the antenna. If you live in an area that is far away from TV transmitters then you will have to overcome this since the signals you are receiving are weak. In such a situation, a preamplifier will provide a boost so that you can get those signals to your TV and watch those networks. You will need a preamplifier if there 50 feet or such cable length between the TV set and Antenna as well.
A preamplifier will also be useful for you if multiple TV-outlets are coming from the very same antenna. The splitter causes a signal loss since it gets used to connect multiples sets. An ideal preamplifier must be able to boost the signals but it must also be weatherproof since it will be attached with the outdoor TV antenna. So it will have to brave the harsh weather at times as well.
There are quite a several manufacturers who are making amplifiers/ preamplifiers. But how will you know which one is best for you? To help you out, here’s a list of the very best outdoor TV antenna preamplifiers.
11 Best Outdoor TV Antenna Preamplifiers in 2023 [Reviews]
Preamplifiers will help you minimize the signal dropouts and help you get a better signal so that you can watch the network you like without any issue. The preamplifiers mentioned below provide a great connection. These are all highly reviewed and rated. They are:
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antennas Direct ClearStream Juice VHF/UHF Low-Noise Preamplifier System |
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| ONA17CH003 outdoor antenna amplifier - Black |
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| Winegard LNA-200 Boost XT HDTV Preamplifier |
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| Winegard LNA-100 Boost TV Antenna Amplifier |
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| RCA TVPRAMP1Z Preamplifier for Outdoor Antenna |
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| Channel Master Ultra Mini 2 TV Antenna Amplifier |
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| GE Outdoor TV Antenna Amplifier |
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| GE 4-Way TV Antenna Amplifier |
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| ANTOP Antenna Amplifier, Low Noise Antenna Signal Booster Amplifier |
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| Antennas Direct PA-18 Ultra-Low-Noise Preamplifier |
|
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| Antra AT-PAA28 Low Noise Pre-Amplifier HDTV Pre-amp Signal Booster |
|
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1. Antennas Direct ClearStream Juice VHF/UHF Low-Noise Preamplifier System
No products found.
- Weight: 15.2 ounces
- UHF: 19dB
- Dimensions: 5 x 2.1 x 8.3 inches
This preamplifier system will help you get great VHF and UHF signals. Using this preamplifier will give you ample gain at 17.5dB VHF and 19dB UHF. It can do so by overcoming the challenges posed by long-distance coaxial cables. Even if your cables are over a hundred feet from the TV sets, it will be able to ensure that you get a great signal.
Not just distance from coaxial cables, if you are facing issues as a result of weak signals or splitters, then it will be able to boost the signal. This preamplifier comes with the best overlord protection so that you can get dependable reception. It doesn’t matter if you live in a rural, suburban, or urban area, the reception is something you will be able to depend on.
It is also put in the weatherproof housing that comes with an integrated filter (low pass) so that it rejects all kinds of interference from wireless and cellular data services. Along with this, the housing ensures that there’s max signal-to-noise so that you get an efficient reception.
The preamplifier comes with a power inserter, 2/ea. zip-ties, 2/ea.x36in coaxial-cables, and a power inserter. If you are worried about installing it, then there’s no need to be. It comes with instructions that will help guide you through the process. What’s more, is that it comes with 90-days of warranty as well.
Pros
- Weatherproof housing
- Max signal-to-noise
- Warranty
Cons
- Gains could be better
2. ONA17CH003 outdoor antenna amplifier – Black
No products found.
- Weight: 8.8 ounces
- Max gains: n/a
- Dimensions: 5.08 x 1.08 x 3.94 inches
The product has been certified after testing it rigorously so you can be assured of its quality. There is a refurbishing process is done, including basic cleaning, functionality testing, repackaging, and inspection.
This amplifier will boost the signal strength of your antenna and will compensate for the cable loss. With the help of this device, there will be fewer signal dropouts as well. As such you will be able to watch what you like in peace.
This amplifier ensures that you get a low-noise amplification. As such you won’t get disturbed at all while in your house.
It will provide you with 1080p HD and can be used both indoors and outdoors. This will give you options to choose from. The amplifier comes packed with 4 zip-ties, AC adapter, power inserter as well as 2 full weather-proof boots. But do know that it doesn’t come with a mount. So you will have to get it separately if needed.
Pros
- Low-noise amplification
- Can be used indoors and outdoors
- Boosted signal strength
Cons
- No mount
3. Winegard LNA-200 Boost XT HDTV Preamplifier
No products found.
- Weight: 9.2 ounces
- Max gain: 20 dB
- Dimensions: 3 x 4.5 x 1.5 inches
This amplifier will help extend the signal and range of your outdoor TV antenna. With this, you will be able to watch the local news, live sports, weather, and such for free. Love watching the top-rated shows, but couldn’t because of low signals? This antenna will ensure that you can now and that too in Dolby-Digital Surround-Sound.
The amplifier makes use of TwinAmp Technology. This technology will help amplify the UHF and VHF signals separately so that you can max performance. This separation helps in increasing the signal handling ability 10×. What’s more, is that it helps in reducing intermodulation. As such with this you will be able to maintain the purest possible signal path.
This preamplifier comes with bandpass filters which will help in getting rid of any interfering RF signals. Such interfering signals can fully shut down the tv signals for a time. So such filters will prevent any such interference. If you are worried about installation then there’s no need to be. The device comes with easy-to-understand installation options.
Using this amplifier you will get a maximum gain of 18 dB. Know that the noise levels will be really low at just 1dB. So you will be able to watch in peace and won’t have to worry about pixelation or signal dropout. You will get a power inserter, 110v adapter, AMD hose clamps with this.
Pros
- Amplifies UHF and VHF separately
- Bandpass signals for low noise
- More channels
Cons
- The gain could be better
4. Winegard LNA-100 Boost TV Antenna Amplifier
No products found.
- Weight: 0.16 ounces
- Max gains: 20dB
- Dimensions: 8.5 x 0.75 x 1.5 inches
This amplifier helps increase the range of the antenna and ensures that you can get a crystal-clear signal. Due to this, you will be able to get more TV channels to watch in high-def. If you are missing out on some fave channels, then this might very well help you solve that problem.
This amplifier gives you a much lower noise level at 1dB so that you can enjoy an improved picture quality. You will find that this amplifier also comes with an inbuilt FM trap that filters the FM signal. This prevents those signals from interfering with the digital TV ones. Due to this, you won’t have to deal with interrupted or dropout signals.
It comes with a technology called the Boost Clear-Circuit. This helps in minimizing the signal dropouts and pixelation so that you can watch in high-def. This antenna works with UHF and VHF both. The typical gain here is 15 dB for VHF and 20 dB for UHF.
This amplifier comes with a 110V Adapter and a USB power cable. You will also get the printed documentation with this. You can use this to deliver a stronger and powerful signal to various TVs. For this just connect your coax which is running right from your antenna straight to the amplifier’s AMP port. Now just connect that cable which is going straight from Tuner port to the splitter. Now make use of the USB cable and connect the power and amplifier.
Pros
- Low noise levels
- Inbuilt FM trap
- Minimizes signal dropouts
Cons
- Gains could be better
5. RCA TVPRAMP1Z Preamplifier for Outdoor Antenna
No products found.
- Weight: 9.2 ounces
- Max gains: 20dB
- Dimensions: 3 x 4.5 x 1.5 inches
With the help of this preamplifier, you will be able to watch the weather news, local news, live sports, and even the top show from your favorite channels for free. What’s more, is that you will be able to watch it in HD without any video quality compromise. That’s not all. Along with the great video, you will get great audio with the Dolby-Digital Surround-Sound.
With this preamplifier, you will be able to get maximum content. If something is available in your area local area, then you will surely get it. What’s more, is that you will get both UHF and VHF signals from a long 65 miles far away.
This antenna comes with technology known as Clear Circuit. Using this you will get low noise levels. By low, we mean as low as just 1 dB. As a result of this, you will get more range as well as better video quality. There will not be any pixelation or signal dropouts.
It also comes with the TwinAmp Technology that separates the UHF and VHF and then amplifies them. As a result of this thread improved signal handling by 10×. Also as a result there’s less intermodulation so the purest possible signal path is maintained. It also comes with bandpass filters that will remove any kind of interfering RF signals. As a result of this, your connection will be smooth and you won’t have to worry about signal dropouts.
Pros
- Stops interfering RF signals
- Low noise levels
- TwinAmp technology
Cons
- Gains could be better
6. Channel Master Ultra Mini 2 TV Antenna Amplifier
No products found.
- Weight: 1.05 pounds
- Max gains: 11.5 dB
- Dimensions: 5.75 x 8.5 x 2.25 inches
This amplifier will help you boost your TV signals. With the help of this device, you will be able to improve the overall signal-strength that will go throughout your home. Due to this, you will be able to enjoy your TV in better picture quality as well as get new channels as well. You don’t have to worry about pixelation as well. Know that the noise levels are also very low with this at just 2 dB or even lower than that.
This preamplifier offers you two output ports. As such, with the help of these amplified ports you will be able to connect two TVs without affecting your signal strength at all. There will be no drop in signal strength as is caused by regular splitters. As for TV antenna types, you don’t have to worry about that because this model works with every kind of TV antenna. These two output ports will give you a gain of 11.5 dB.
You will be able to use this HDTV amplifier with both digital and analog RF distribution-applications like Cable TV. Here high reliability and high performance will indeed be required. You will find a power adapter, user guide, and a 6ft coaxial cable (RG6) here. With a user guide, you won’t have to worry about installation woes.
This amplifier comes with a powder-coated heavy-duty housing. The ports are also all-weather sealed. This ensures that you will be able to use it for both outdoor and indoor installation. This will give you a lot of free reigns to work with. But, even if you do have to use it with your outdoor antenna, even then there will be no problem due to the great weatherproof coating.
Pros
- Low noise levels
- Two output ports
- Weatherproof
Cons
- Below average gains
7. GE Outdoor TV Antenna Amplifier
No products found.
- Weight – 8.3 ounces
- Dimensions – 7.04 x 5.59 x 2.32 inches
Although we have mentioned another bestselling product from GE Outdoor, we knew for a fact that we couldn’t miss out on the GE Outdoor TV Antenna Amplifier. Not only is it a compact design, but it is also one of the best multifunctional options that you can get your hands on.
The signal booster is designed to boost and then amplify the signal received by the outdoor non-amplified counterparts if that is something you are looking for. If you are tired of experiencing low strength and fuzzy channels during your browsing, you wouldn’t have to worry anymore.
Aside from the durable build of the mode, it also comes with a waterproof exterior, which means that you wouldn’t have to worry about its placement in the exterior because it won’t get damaged over time due to rain or harsh sun.
The package of this TV antenna amplifier comes with the standard power inserter, power supply, and zip ties, all that you would need to install the product the right way. Also, the package comes with all the standard instructions that you’d need to follow to set it up and install it the right way.
The GE Outdoor TV Antenna Amplifier is backed with a limited lifetime warranty, which means that you wouldn’t have to worry about any damage or issues to the product. Also, they provide prompt technical support in case you are looking for the same.
Pros
- Weather-resistant and durable design
- Amplifies the signal and gets rid of disturbances
- Easy to install
Cons
- Requires rebooting now and then
8. GE 4-Way TV Antenna Amplifier
No products found.
- Weight: 13.6 ounces
- Max gains: n/a
- Dimensions: n/a
This amplifier will improve your signal strength so that you can get stronger signals and hopefully new channels as well. This amplifier will improve your UHF and VHF reception. If you live in a rural area or somewhere far from a TV transmitter, then this will be useful for you. You will be able to watch local weather news, local news, sports, and other such stuff without any issue.
It’s very easy to install this device. All you have to do is connect the amplifier to the TV antenna and then connect to the AC power-adapter and TV. Now just carry out a channel scan. Do note that while you get a power adapter with this package, if you need a coaxial cable then you will have to buy it separately.
This amplifier will boost your signal strength and will minimize your signal dropouts. What’s more, is that it’s all done with really low noise. Low noise means less disturbance. But it also means higher video quality and higher signal strength.
It will work with all kinds of TV antenna brands so you can expect universal compatibility from it. Also, note that it will be able to distribute the video/audio source to 4 devices using F-type connectors. This is a good number. As such this amplifier will be really useful for you if you have a large family. If you have any trouble with it then you can call them for technical assistance and also use the limited lifetime warranty in case there are any issues.
Pros
- Low noise
- Universal compatibility
- Works with 4 TVs
Cons
- Inadequate weatherproofing
9. ANTOP Antenna Amplifier, Low Noise Antenna Signal Booster Amplifier
No products found.
- Weight: 12.8 ounces
- Max gains: 14dB
- Dimensions: 10.2 x 5.1 x 1.9 inches
This amplifier will help in improving UHF and VHF signals so that you can get watch TV with ease. It does this with the help of its Smart Boost feature which improves the signal strength and video quality. If you live in an area with low signal, have issues with splitters, or have a long distance between the antenna and the TV then this device is for you. Also, note that it is fully compatible with different kinds of antenna brands. This universal compatibility will help improve your ease of use.
The amplifier will allow you to connect one TV and another device. This can be another TV, an OTA-ready device for streaming, FM stereo, and more. As such, it will be beneficial for a small family with different interests. It does it with the help of 2 coaxial cables of 5 ft each. This comes with the package itself.
It comes with an inbuilt 4G LTE kind of filters as well as new power boosters. With the help of the filters, you don’t have to deal with any interference that can meddle with the signal strength. If you want to avoid interference, then make it a point to keep it away from devices that consume a lot of power.
This amplifier ensures that there’s low noise that there’s less disturbance. But low noise also means better signal quality as well as better video quality. Here are some tips while using the amplifier- When using it, make sure to re-scan all the channels after turning its Smart-Boost dial. Also, do remember to never place your antenna behind any kind of metallic object. This device comes with lifelong service as well as a 30-day return policy. So if you find that this device isn’t the ideal amplifier for your home and area, then you can indeed return it. You won’t be stuck with it.
Pros
- Low noise
- Filters for interference
- Connects 2 TVs
Cons
- Low gains
10. Antennas Direct PA-18 Ultra-Low-Noise Preamplifier
- Weight: 1.05 pounds
- Max gain: 15.4 dB for UHF
- Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.4 x 1.4 inches
If you live in a rural area with weak signals, have a distance of a hundred feet or more between the antenna and TV through the coaxial cable, or using splitters then this preamplifier will be perfect for you. This will ensure that you get the necessary gain. With this amplifier, you will be able to get a consistent and clean signal performance. You will get a gain of 18.6 dB for VHF and of 15.4 dB for UHF.
This preamplifier will help you boost your TV signals so that you can watch the channels you want in high quality. Along with this, there will also be noise reduction so you can watch in peace. Also if there’s way too much noise then you can indeed experience signal dropout or pixelation. So low noise also means better picture quality.
It is easy to install and comes with low-loss power-inserter, 2 high-performance coaxial-cables of 36″ as well as DC power supply of 12V. This will make installation easy for you.
This preamplifier has been designed in such a way that it will work in all kinds of weather. You don’t have to worry about it getting damaged in heavy rains, strong winds or lightning. Not only will you be able to rest easier, but this weatherproofing will make the device last longer as well.
Pros
- Low noise
- Weatherproof
- Boosted performance
Cons
- Gains could be better
11. Antra AT-PAA28 Low Noise Pre-Amplifier HDTV Pre-amp Signal Booster
No products found.
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Max gains: 47-694 MHz
- Dimensions: 6.2 x 2.2 x 3.5 inches
This amplifier will allow you to watch ideal TV- with high-quality videos and flipping through new TV channels. With this device, you will be able to boost your low TV signals and get high-quality ones. Even in bad weather conditions, you will see a noticeable difference in terms of signal strength with this device.
This amplifier pre-filters out 4G LTE. What this means is that there will be no 4G 700MHz+ unwanted signals into the HDTV system. As such you won’t have to deal with overloading or unnecessary interference. This also comes with an FM trap that rejects the FM station’s strong interference. As such this feature will further help you get pure HDTV signals (but in the VHF band). The metal housing of this amplifier helps prevents additional interference.
With this device, you will be able to get great gains across the 4 to 694 MHz spectrum. Along with this, you will get a higher noise/signal ratio. That’s not all. You will also get low noise levels of 2 dB. With the help, if this you will be able to watch your shows in peace and higher quality. The device comes with ABS plastic-housing that helps protect it from water. You can further waterproof it as well by adding silicone to the connectors and edges.
It’s advised that you point the amplifier and the antenna in the direction of the weakest TV stations. With this, you will be able to pick up weaker signals more and less strong ones. As such you will get more variety in your channels. If you double down on strong signals then your Pre-amplifier might get overloaded and you might lose even those channels you got without an amplifier.
Pros
- 4G LTE and FM interference filtration
- Low noise
- High gains
Cons
- Not adequately weatherproofed
Ultimate Buying Guide to Choose the right Outdoor TV Antenna Preamplifiers in 2023
Having a preamplifier will help you get better signals and as a result not only will you be able to watch your favorite channels,but you will be able to watch them in high quality. These preamplifiers will ensure that there are no RF signals which interfere with the digital TV signals.
So preamplifiers are certainly really useful. But when you will be in the market-either online or offline, how will you decide which one to get? After all, not every model will be up to the standard. So to help you out, here are some features which you must check before buying a preamplifier for an outdoor TV antenna:
1. Signal Gain
You should figure out what kind of signal gain you are getting from your preamplifier. Do know that your signal-loss should be lesser than the signal gain you get after installing the preamplifier. Generally, you will find gains between 12 to 30dB.
Know that higher gains don’t automatically mean that it’s better. For example, if the signal loss faced by you is 15dB then it’s better that you opt for the preamplifier that comes with a gain below 20dB. It won’t benefit you to go for 30dB.
2. Noise Levels
This is a very important feature to check, but not many pay attention to it while buying and then face problems later on. Know that without controlled noise levels, you won’t be able to enjoy anything you watch. This is why you should opt for those models which come with low noise levels.
Choose the preamplifiers which have noise levels of just one to two dB. This will allow you to watch your shows peacefully. But that’s not all. Low noise levels also mean that you will get better signal and better sensitivity as well.
3. Supported Frequencies
Most outdoor TV antennas support UHF and VHF both. So both these have to get amplified so that you get the signal you want. For this, you should get a preamplifier which passes through them both without any issue. Don’t opt for a single range otherwise, you will have to grapple with a lot of issues later. All the preamplifiers mentioned here can amplify both these frequencies without any issue.
4. Warranty
This might perplex many, but warranty is a very underrated feature. Very few consider it an actual thing to look out for while buying a preamplifier. But do know that not kind of preamplifiers come with a warranty. But if you want to claim anything if there’s a manufacturing issue or something, then you will need a warranty to cut down on the costs. Always buy a preamplifier which comes with a hefty warranty. The greater the warranty, the more trust the company has on its product. As a result, it’s more likely to be a good device.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Outdoor TV Antenna Preamplifiers in 2023
1. Should you install a preamplifier if you live near a TV transmitter?
If you live near a TV transmitter, then there’s no need to get a preamplifier. On the contrary, having one can cause problems because then the signals will be too high.
2. How can you determine if you need a preamplifier?
One way to accurately measure if you need a preamplifier is to get the signal levels checked using a field-strength meter. But that’s not a plausible option for home installations. The alternative is to use the Antenna-Selection tool and then put your address in it. This will show you all the available channels in your area. If the station is grey or red, then having an amplifier will boost the signal strength.
3. Should you use 2 preamplifiers on your TV antenna?
First of all, know that the antenna amplifier sends a low-level signal to the TV through the coaxial-cable. You can opt to connect a preamplifier with the coaxial-cable splitter or on the very main antenna as well. If you use an amplifier on both these locations, then the signal will get doubly boosted. If your connection is so poor that one amplifier isn’t getting the job done only then add-in another one. Otherwise, there’s no need to get another one and get higher signals than what’s needed.
4. Will an amplifier guarantee new channels?
There are no guarantees that you will give more TV channels just because the signal is now amplified. This is because various other factors come into play like the building materials, the antenna being used, the location of the TV transmitter, and more.
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Conclusion
Ultimately, preamplifiers will help enhance the signal and you will get a better video quality out of it. If everything goes right then chances are that you will get to watch news channels as well. All of this without any noise disturbance. So if you are troubled with bad signals then attaching a preamplifier to your outdoor TV antenna will do you wonders.
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