Hi... I live in a home with cinderblock/rebar walls and when I first moved in over a decade ago, I tried to setup an indoor antenna to get some local channels. It was terrible and I eventually gave up local TV. I missed being able to turn on the TV, but did fine with a patchwork of local newspaper and etc.

Now... over a decade later, I wonder if antenna technology has improved? I haven't been following, but if anyone has any to recommend, I'd much appreciate it.

These are what Wirecutter is recommending for 2025.

https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-indoor-hdtv-antenna/

If anyone has any thoughts on these, please advise.

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[–] Rodneyck@lemm.ee 4 points 1 week ago (1 children)

Firstly, they do work, but it depends on what stations are nearby. Also, you mentioned cinder block walls, that is a huge obstacle, walls, trees, buildings, etc, which is why people that have these put there antennae up high, tower to attic.

Use this guide, type in your address/zip to see what channels you can pull in, walls aside, and see if it is worth it.

If lots available, I would try the type of antennae you linked, that is the sort I am using now. When I lived in an area with lots of stations, I used this one, which is more costly and larger, and it is great, but don't spend the extra money if walls or lack of stations are going to be your downfall, it won't matter.

[–] tyfpgg@lemm.ee 3 points 1 week ago

Wow. I never knew that there's a guide like that. It's really helpful. Thank you!! It looks like I am in-range of the channel I want. (I'm trying to watch local basketball games.)

Your antenna looks serious. Over a decade ago, I had something similar to what Wirecutter linked. I'll do some more research and see if I'll get one of those, or get yours. I'm really excited to see the new coach and players this season, and how they do.

This is great info to get me started. Thank you!