ClearStream Micron XG Indoor Antenna Review

Most of the television antenna's we've installed in the past few years have been larger outdoor units, set up specifically to capture all of the available stations in our local area. Where we live, smack dab between two major cities, we don't have the easy access to broadcast towers enjoyed by people who happen to live in the cities where these signals originate. Now, when Antennas Direct claimed to have developed a new Clearstream indoor model that was capable of hitting some pretty impressive numbers, well that was rather difficult to imagine. So, with our interest piqued, we grabbed it and hooked it up.

Before we get into the reception, let's first talk about how the antenna is made. It's a square, plastic unit that takes advantage of the way digital and HD television signals are now broadcast. Two other items that help the antenna to capture the best possible signal are the Micron reflector and an inline amplifier that can add 5, 10, 15, or 20 dB to the signal. The antenna, because of its unique design, is able to capture an extremely generous 70 degree wide range of the UHF channels.

The antenna works by first assembling it, and it can be either tabletop or wall-mounted. We opted for using it in a tabletop configuration, which means it sits within a plastic stand which allows the reflector to be mounted to better focus signals back onto the antenna and boost the natural gain. To wall mount it you can do so either flush-mount or raised mount thanks to the flexible hardware included with the antenna. Once you've determined your configuration, you simply insert the amplifier inline and connect the F-connectors of the included cables as indicated.

That's it - all that happens next is you rescan your channels with your TV in Antenna mode. So that's what we did. And we got 25 channels immediately, and another 4-6 that we could get if we moved the antenna around a bit. That included 3 out of 4 possible networks in our area and a ton of local and PBS channels. Nearly 30 channels of free television is not bad for $100. For those in actual cities with broadcast towers, you're going to see upwards of 40 channels or more including all networks. That's fantastic for $99.

The Micron Series from Antenna's Direct is available in 4 flavors from $60 to $100. The differences have to do with whether it comes with a reflector or an inline amplifier. Regardless of which model you purchase we're recommending this for anyone who is within 20-25 miles of their broadcast towers. If you're beyond that, be sure to check out the longer range outdoor models which are available.

Unless otherwise indicated, this is a preview article for the featured product. A formal review may or may not follow in the future.