Picture yourself turning on your radio, and all you can hear is scrambled voices. To make this scenario worse, the scrambled voices belong to your favorite band and the song is one of the few that can make you get on your feet to dance.
This situation can be quite frustrating, to say the least. Why do radio signals get scrambled? What is the solution?
As a professional carpenter who has been working on home improvement, woodwork, and remodeling for 10 years, I have plenty of knowledge on this subject.
Although I prefer using my hands to fix things to describing how to get the job done, I realized that my tips and hacks can make many peoples’ lives easier.
This is why I have compiled one of the best indoor FM antenna reviews. By reading this review, you will understand how antennas prevent signal scrambling. You will also get a list of the best AM FM antennas available on Amazon.
Contents
- 1 Top 7 FM Radio Antenna for Indoor and Outdoor Use
- 1.1 1. Outdoor FM Antenna Omnidirectional
- 1.2 2. TERK Amplified Stereo Antenna – Top Pick for Best Indoor AM FM Antenna
- 1.3 3. Antop Amplified Radio Antenna
- 1.4 4. Ancable 75 Ohm – Runner Up for Best FM Antenna
- 1.5 5. Herdio Waterproof Marine Radio Antenna – Outdoor FM Antenna
- 1.6 6. Jensen HS519L Antenna with Adjustable Ball Base – Best Car Radio Antenna
- 1.7 7. Bingfu FM Dipole Antenna – Best Indoor FM Radio Antenna
- 1.8 8. TERK Omni-Directional – Best Indoor FM Antenna
- 1.9 9. Winegard HD-6010 HD FM Radio Antenna – Best Outdoor FM Radio Antenna
- 2 Key Considerations to Make When Purchasing an AM FM Radio Antenna
- 3 Frequently Asked Questions About FM Antennas
- 4 Final Take
Top 7 FM Radio Antenna for Indoor and Outdoor Use
- Outdoor FM Antenna Omnidirectional – Best for Outdoors
- TERK Amplified Stereo Antenna – Best for Indoors
- Antop Amplified Radio Antenna
- Ancable 75 Ohm
- Herdio Waterproof Marine Radio Antenna
- Jensen HS519L Antenna
- Bingfu FM Dipole Antenna
- TERK Omni-Directional
- Winegard HD-6010
Without antennas, you will not receive any signal. Well, you might get some radio stations that work but the signal will be so poor that you will not hear anything clearly. AM and FM antennas are helpful in this regard.
The former modulates the carrier while the latter regulates the frequency. Although FM has a better noise cancellation effect, both techniques are important for the best sound quality. That said, here are 7 of the best AM FM car radio antenna that can work at home too.
1. Outdoor FM Antenna Omnidirectional
Specifications:
- Package Dimensions: 8.89 cms (L) x 21.844 cms (W) x 47.752 cms (H)
- Product Type: Antenna
- Country Of Origin: China
- Installed: Outdoor
- Construction: two semicircular parts that snap into place on a cross connector where the coaxial cable connects
Stellar Labs is one of the leading manufacturers of niche consumer products that have great applications across multiple fields including making connection cables to aviation communication equipment.
As they are a lab, a lot of research and product development considerations are undertaken in developing their products. As a result, their products come off looking simple but with very effective functionality across multiple platforms.
The best example of their engineering brilliance is the omnidirectional outdoor FM antenna which sits at the top of outdoor FM antenna reviews. Omnidirectional means it offers great reception from all directions.
This allows you to mount it anywhere outside where it is most convenient for you. Some users report having a great reception with the antenna mounted within the house.
The antenna consists of two semicircular parts that snap into place on a cross connector where the coaxial cable connects. When you mount this outdoor use shielded coaxial cables, this allows for long-lasting connectivity.
What’s included:
- FM Antenna OMNIDIRECTIONAL
- Cheap
- Quick installation
- Convenient mounting design
- High signal quality
- Fragile construction
2. TERK Amplified Stereo Antenna – Top Pick for Best Indoor AM FM Antenna
Specifications:
- Antenna: Radio
- Brand: Audiovox Accessories Corporation
- Frequency range: FM: 88-108 MHz
- Compatible: with digital HD FM radio broadcasts
- Reception: 360 degree omni-directional
TERK has been a supplier of antennas for about 20 years now. They are known for producing high-quality products, so no surprise lots of people consider their antennas to be the best for indoors on the market.
This product is unique with its tower-resembling design. The materials it’s made of are high-quality and add a lot to its durability. It can distinguish between FM and AM receptions due to the air coil technology. Another great advantage is that this antenna makes no sound.
What’s included:
- 6 foot 75 Ohm coax cable
- 75 Ohm matching transformer
- AC/DC power adapter
- Easy to install and assemble
- Doesn’t make sound
- Great signal quality
- Stays illuminated even at nighttime
3. Antop Amplified Radio Antenna
Specifications:
- Antenna: Radio
- Brand: ANTOP ANTENNA
- Maximum Range: 50 Miles
- Coaxial Cable: 6ft
- Power Supply: DC 6V
Antop is one of the best telecommunications equipment manufacturers in America. Most notable is their expertise in antenna engineering which spans from making the best quality antennas to offering great customer service.
For example, there is an option on their website to see antenna coverage maps where you simply input your zip code and they can show you the kind of coverage to expect from their antennas.
The Indoor Amplified Radio Antenna is a multidirectional antenna with a range of up to 50 miles. This allows great coverage from all directions while ensuring you receive clear signals with little to no distortion.
The 4G filter is precise and provides both clarity and high-quality reception indoors and outdoors. The antenna has received many good reviews from indoor users and pro users alike.
What’s included:
- AT-217FM BOW Amplified Indoor AM/FM Antenna
- AC/DC Power Adapter
- IEC Female to F Female coaxial adapter connector
- 6ft Coaxial Cable
- Instruction/User Manual
- Instrucciones de Instalación en Español
- Great range
- Clear signal reception
- Easy installation
- Simple operation
- Does not ship with an instruction manual
4. Ancable 75 Ohm – Runner Up for Best FM Antenna
Specifications:
- Antenna: Radio
- Brand: Ancable
- Maximum Range: 4.9 Feet
- Applicable: Yamaha, Onkyo, Marantz, Pioneer, Sony, JVC, Samsung, Boston Acoustic, Panasonic, Sangean, so on tabletop home stereo receiver desktop radio receiver
- GUARANTEE: 12 months warranty
Ancable is next on the list with the best indoor FM receiver; the 75 Ohm antenna offers great indoor clarity of reception in all corners of your house. The stereo antenna comes with an F connector for easy installation, just plug it in.
Ancable guarantee antenna reliability without any faults with a comprehensive 12-month warranty. You get instant connectivity once plugged in. The simple design means you can tuck it away without interfering with the signal strength.
This antenna is compatible with multiple devices including Samsung, Boston Acoustic, Panasonic, Yamaha, Onkyo, and many other devices. The connector is just under five feet long. Ensure you check your stereo connector type before purchase to ensure you have F type connectivity.
What’s included:
- FM Antenna for Stereo Receiver Indoor
- Easy to install
- Good signal quality
- Simple and light design
- Compatibility problem with Denon stereos
5. Herdio Waterproof Marine Radio Antenna – Outdoor FM Antenna
Specifications:
- Antenna: Radio
- Maximum Range: 10 Miles
- Advantage: Flexible mast, 180-degrees Swivel base for maximum mobility
- Portable installation: Angled mounting options allow you to install the antenna in the most convenient locations
- Corrosion Resistant: Corrosion resistant for the marine environment
Herdio specializes in the making of accessory stereo equipment of all kinds. They especially excel in the making of a variety of marine equipment. The benefit of these items is they are all waterproof and have added utility when you decide to use them on land.
The waterproof marine radio antenna is a 17-inch antenna with a fifty-five-inch cable. The antenna is made of flexible plastic to allow some degree of bending. It is mounted on a metallic swivel that allows 180 degrees of mobility.
On a boat, this allows you to wander further from the shore without fear of losing signal in case you need emergency services.
The antenna allows you to mount it on the hood of your car to get the best radio reception. Installation is fairly easy following the included instruction manual.
What’s included:
- 16.9 inch mast,55 inch cable
- Flexible dipole
- Cheap
- Great signal reception
- Waterproof
- Brass insert is fragile
6. Jensen HS519L Antenna with Adjustable Ball Base – Best Car Radio Antenna
Specifications:
- Antenna: Radio
- Brand: Jensen
- Construction: Adjustable ball base for top or side mounting
- Сable: 96″
- Dipole long: 33 inches
Arguably the oldest company on this list, Jensen has been in existence since 1915 after the founder of the company, Peter Jensen built his first loudspeaker.
Since that time, their product line has grown to meet consumer demands, and nowadays they remain one of the best-specialized consumer electronics manufacturers worldwide.
The Jensen HS519L AM FM RV Antenna with Adjustable Ball Base is made for use on tourers and RVs. The sturdy construction consists of a spring-mounted swivel combination that allows for the rooftop of the side mounting the antenna. The spring absorbs the vehicle inertia to prevent breaking the dipole.
The dipole is 33 inches long and ships with a coaxial cable that has grounding. You simply mount it to the side of your RV and plug it into the stereo receiver.
What’s included:
- Jensen HS519L AM FM RV Antenna With Adjustable Ball Base for Top or Side Mounting
- Durable construction
- Easy installation
- Great signal quality
- Replacement parts are hard to find
7. Bingfu FM Dipole Antenna – Best Indoor FM Radio Antenna
Specifications:
- Brand: BINGFU
- Impedance: 75 Ohm
- Maximum Range: 1.3 Meters
- AM Loop Connector Interface: 2-PIN Bare Wire Terminal
- Compatible with: Indoor Radio Tuner AV Audio Vedio Home Theater Receiver Stereo Receiver Speaker Selector Music System
Bingfu set out to offer excellent utility, value for money, and guarantee connectivity. They hit all three marks with this package deal. At a very affordable price, the package contains one of the best FM antenna for home stereo, and an AM loop antenna as well.
The indoor FM radio antenna is a 75 Ohm plug and play antenna with a simple F type connector. Therefore, it is essential to check your device port before purchase. The antenna comes with three receivers capable of high definition audio and visual reception.
You can hook up both antennas to your stereo if the need arises with equal ease. Both antennas are compatible with Yamaha, Denon, Pioneer, Marantz, and Onkyo receivers. These are great for replacing your analog TV antennas too.
What’s included:
- Bingfu FM Dipole Antenna
- Easy installation
- Good signal quality
- AM and FM package
- Fragile construction
8. TERK Omni-Directional – Best Indoor FM Antenna
Specifications:
- Reception radius: 360 degree omni-directional reception
- Gamma-Loop technology: more stations with less noise and static
- FM frequency range: 88 -108 MHz
- Compatible: with digital HD FM radio broadcasts
- Installed: Mounts on wall or sits on console or shelf
TERK is a recognized OEM with a range of receivers and radio antennas in their products. The most notable achievement is winning the CES innovation award for 2017. They make receivers, routers and remotes control among other things.
The TERK omnidirectional antenna offers great quality reception using a passive FM antenna, much like a dipole antenna does. It is designed to look like casual household appliances like your internet router. The antenna is meant to stand on a platform or can be wall-mounted.
Connectivity is possible with a 75-ohm connector or a simple coaxial cable. It does not ship with the cable, so you have to buy the latter separately. Because it is omnidirectional, you can put it anywhere in the house without caring about which direction it faces.
What’s included:
- 6 foot 75 Ohm coax cable and 75 Ohm matching transformer
- Elegant design
- Simple installation
- The durable construction of the outer casing
- Signal strength is strongly dependent on the building’s construction materials
9. Winegard HD-6010 HD FM Radio Antenna – Best Outdoor FM Radio Antenna
Specifications:
- Antenna: Radio
- Brand: Winegard
- Impedance: 75 Ohm
- Maximum Range: 2040 Miles
- Suitable for: maximum 2″ diameter pipe
The Winegard company is widely popular for its antennas. Since 1953 they have designed around 1000 antenna models and even got more than 90 patents. Amongst many radio antennas, Winegard HD-6010 HD FM Radio Antenna is best for outdoor use. Also, this FM radio antenna can be used indoors.
Due to the special design, this antenna receives signals from all directions. What is also notable about it is how compact and portable the product is. The process of installation is very easy since this antenna features one-piece construction. It should be mounted to a pipe maximum of 2 inches in diameter.
What’s included:
- Winegard HD-6010 HD FM Radio Antenna
- Receives VHF/UHF signals
- Receives signals from various direction
- Great and quality design
- Packaging might be better
Key Considerations to Make When Purchasing an AM FM Radio Antenna
The main cause of scrambled signals is obstructions. Dense populations, rough terrain, and high buildings are examples of such obstructions that may interfere with a radio signal. In order to choose an antenna that overcomes these obstructions, you will make three important considerations:
The Population in Your Area
Getting a direct signal in an area that is densely populated can be troublesome. If you realize that you live in an area surrounded by a lot of people, you should choose an antenna that prioritizes sharp directivity over high gains.
In other words, you need a direct connection to the source of signals, instead of collecting all signals available around you.
For best results with antennas, you should pick a location that allows you to access the direct signal with minimal interference from reflected signals. However, this may not always be possible because you choose where you live based on other more important factors. Therefore, opt for antennas that have sharp directivity.
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The Antenna’s Beam Width
When multiple signals use the same path, audio will be distorted. In most cases, unwanted signals may bounce off obstructions and interfere with the signal you are receiving on your radio. While you cannot always avoid obstructions, you can reduce interference by buying the right antenna.
Some antennas will filter out unwanted signals and leave you with the audio you desire, while others will span a wide selection of signals and boost their clarity to improve your listening experience.
The best indoor FM radio antenna is one that is able to reject all disruptive signals and focus on those you want to receive on your radio. In order to do this, the antenna’s beam must be narrow.
The Antenna Type
There are usually three types of antennas, each suited for a different purpose. The type you choose depends on your location and signal needs.
If you are in an area with many obstructions, you want an antenna that prioritizes a direct signal. At the same time, if you want to listen to multiple radio stations, you will look for one that has high gains and covers a wide area.
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Type 1: FM Antennas
Often referred to as broadband antennas, these usually pick more than one signal. As a result, they might not modulate all frequencies. However, they work perfectly for receiving signals for local radio stations.
Type 2: Integrated FM Antennas
All radios come with an antenna that is built into their hardware. When you live in an area that is free of interference, this antenna is sufficient. However, any slight obstruction can turn into an inconvenience as it scrambles most signals. This is because such antennas cannot handle multiple signals at the same time.
Type 3: Rotator
Tired of listening to the same radio station every day? What you need is a variety of signals that are clear enough to listen to. To get this, you should install a rotator.
Rotators are used along high gain antennas in order to collect all signals that are available within 200 miles. While you will not have a guarantee that every single signal you receive will be crystal clear, you will definitely have more than one radio station to listen to.
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Frequently Asked Questions About FM Antennas
It may seem like a very straightforward process, but buying and installing antennas can get quite complicated. Here are the answers to all the questions you may have about this process:
What Is FM Interference?
Due to obstructions and the distance between the transmitter and the antenna, some FM transmissions may get scattered. This phenomenon can cause you to receive new signals that you had not received before, but it may also disrupt the signals you have been receiving and cause radio stations to disappear.
What Is the Difference Between Outdoor and Indoor FM Antennas?
As the name suggests, outdoor antennas are installed outside while indoor antennas are used in the house. An outdoor antenna is highly directional and receives signals easier than the indoor one. One the other hand, indoor antennas are convenient when the outdoor installation is not possible. They can also be amplified for greater sensitivity.
How to Connect FM Antenna to Receiver?
It is necessary to connect your antenna to the receiver in order to pull better signals to your stereo. You will need a screwdriver and your best FM antenna. Follow the steps below in order to connect the two:
- Loosen the FM ANT screws on the receiver.
- Wrap each of the two antenna wires to a single metal post under the screw heads.
- Use a screwdriver to tighten the connection.
- Place the antenna near a window to get clear signals.
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Final Take
When you finally buy that stereo you have always wanted, it is only right that you get the clearest sound from it. While you can always rely on the in-built antenna to serve its purpose, there is always a chance that it won’t be as clear as you hoped. Depending on where you live, getting a clear signal may be almost impossible. This is why you need to buy the best AM FM antenna.
The best antenna is one that rejects all deflected signals and focuses on those that you wish to receive. It should be able to boost the clarity of sound and have minimal interference from the unwanted transmission.
With this comprehensive review of 7 good antennas you can buy online, you are likely to make the best purchase. Whether you decide to buy the Antop amplified antenna or the Omnidirectional outdoor FM antenna, you now know the pros and cons of each.
Have you used any of the antennas I have reviewed? What was your experience with the product? Do you have suggestions for any new antennas that I should review? Please let me know in the comment section below.
“A good tool stays with you for many years and choosing carefully ensures the job is done right, your work is neat, and the tool is always a pleasure to use”
