Customer Reviews

Terk Technology TV-2 Passive Indoor TV Antenna

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I ordered this antenna to enhance the reception of the UHF channels. I live in a big city and I thought I shouldn't have a problem with any indoor antenna. it seems I was mistaken. this antenna is useless. it is almost no better than my previous 99 cents store antenna.

This Terk TV-2 antenna is a good all purpose antenna.

This is a classic combination "rabbit ears" VHF antenna with a UFH loop. Technically, it isn't much different than some of the low-end antennas in the $12 range. However, I believe the Terk is worth the few extra dollars for the following reasons:

a) This antenna is well built. The VHF rods and UHF loop are sturdy and are higher in quality than many of the cheaper priced antennas.

b) The UHF Loop rotates on two axes. This is important so that you can adjust the antenna for the best reception. A lot of the cheaper antennas have a fixed (non-rotating) UHF antenna, which means you need to turn the entire base for tuning purposes.

c) The Terk TV-2 comes with a six foot cable. Cheaper models often have only four feet or less. Since flat panel LCD TVs are too thin to rest an antenna on them, you need to consider that the antenna will likely be placed on a shelf and away from the TV. That extra two feet of cable can be essential.

d) Overall, it's a good looking antenna...sort of retro. Solid weight. Non-skid rubber feet. You might even consider it fashionable.

e) Most importantly - it works. I get crisp digital TV reception. If your last memory of over air broadcast reception consists of a snowy picture, then do yourself a favor and look into HDTV broadcasts.


Can you buy a better antenna? Sure you can. Can you even make your own antenna? Yes, you can. In fact, there are several good plans on the internet that will show you how to make an antenna that will outperform store bought antennas. However, if you're located in the right area and you really don't want to turn this into a hobby, then just try the Terk and be done with it.


A lot of product descriptions have attempted to dumb down the HD technology by using phrases like "HDTV Antenna". However, let's just clearify a few things. High definition digital TV broadcasts still use the same old VHF and UHF radio spectrum. These days, most (but not all) hdtv stations make use of UHF frequencies.

That means the same familiar looking antennas that you used twenty years ago can still be used to receive HDTV broadcasts. True, there is still a wide assortment of antennas to choose frome. Depending on your situation, you might do just fine with this basic Terk model...or you may need to consider a more advanced model....or your location just might not even support local broadcasts. Fortunately, you can do a quick assessment by using the web address mentioned below.

STEPS:
First: go to [...], which is a website sponsored by several broadcasting organizations. Enter your neighborhood information so that you can at least get an idea of what stations you can expect to receive. Location, Location, Location! Just because you're in a well populated area in California doesn't mean that you'll be able to get decent reception (regardless of how advanced your antenna is). Some areas with hilly terrain might be out of luck.

Second: Make sure you have a television that can receive digital broadcasts (or that you have a digital tuner box).

Third: Assuming your location is supported by over air broadcasts and you have a digital tuner - then connect the Terk antenna and FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS. Really, follow the simple tips provided in the manual.

Good luck.

Bought this antenna last year after we went through Hurricane Wilma, and lost cable for over 2 weeks. Worked great.

For a non-amplified indoor TV antenna, you'll never find a better one than this Terk TV-2. I got 2 of them, and was pleased. If you need to get better reception, you might want to get an outdoor TV antenna. If needed, outdoor antennas can provide much better TV reception, which can include HD signals. This Terk does work.

Offers only marginal reception in the Chicago area for DTV. Amplified versions of this type of antenna work better.

I purchased this antenna to enable me to pick up local stations on my TV. I am totally satisfied. It is well made and the antenna has a very long adjustment in the extension and is very sturdy. If the reception gets poor, all I do is adjust the antenna and it is just fine again. Good antenna for the price.

Works great for meat least at the price I got it. Though the not as strong as I expected, but I get all the channels I am looking for.

Works fine on new Digital HD TV. I was using on a second story in home TV with 3 mile distance to mountain top broadcasting signals above me. Not rural but in a city of 1/2 a million people. Population located between me and antenna with no reception problem. Set up and worked. Tried on a basement TV and it would not work down there. A "Buy Item" if you have a clear shot from the antenna to the tower at 3 miles works great for me.

What can I say? It's not a Radio Shack 160" boom antenna. However, this antenna would probably work better if you nail it up on your roof.