Televes Ellipse Mix Outdoor HDTV Antenna review high-vhf/uhf performance with LTE/5G filter

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Televes 148883 Ellipse Mix Outdoor HDTV Antenna screams durability and innovation from the moment you unbox it. Its triple boom design is not only sleek but clearly engineered for performance. I found the orange accents on the antenna unique, offering an aesthetic that stands out without being obtrusive. It’s compact yet robust, making it ideal for both outdoor and attic installations. Despite weighing just 9.58 pounds, it feels sturdy, and the materials seem well-suited to withstand harsh weather conditions.

Assembly was surprisingly simple. The product claims it can be set up in under 60 seconds, and I’d say that’s pretty accurate. I didn’t need any special tools or extra hardware, which was a relief. The UL-listed power supply included in the box was another thoughtful addition, especially since it supports two outputs for multiple TVs. You won’t need to purchase additional preamplifiers or accessories, which is a massive plus.

Performance and Signal Quality

This antenna is no joke when it comes to performance. Equipped with TForce preamplifier technology, it continuously adjusts its gain to ensure optimal signal reception. I tested it in a mid-range scenario, around 50 miles from the nearest broadcasting tower, and the reception was exceptional. The built-in LTE/5G filter was a lifesaver, as it completely eliminated any interference from nearby cell towers. I had no issues with FM or LTE disturbances, which is a common problem with other antennas I’ve tried.

What really blew me away was its ability to handle both VHF and UHF signals independently. Whether it was channels in the low-VHF range or high-definition broadcasts on higher frequencies, the antenna delivered consistent results. Even weak signals were amplified to a level where they were watchable, and stronger signals didn’t overwhelm or distort the image quality. For someone who values crystal-clear TV reception, this feature is a game-changer.

Key Benefits

• Automatic Gain Control ensures stable reception regardless of signal strength.
• FM and LTE/5G filtering eliminates interference from radio and cellular devices.
• 75-mile range makes it suitable for urban and rural installations.
• Dual outputs on the power supply allow easy connection to multiple TVs.
• Quick and tool-free assembly saves time and effort.

Downsides

Despite its many advantages, this antenna isn’t without its flaws.

• The directional nature means it works best when pointed directly at the broadcast source; adjusting it can be tricky.
• Larger dimensions might make attic installations challenging if space is limited.
• The built-in preamplifier, while excellent, cannot be bypassed; this limits flexibility for those who might want to use an external amplifier instead.

Competing Products

When I compare this HDTV antenna to others like the Antennas Direct ClearStream 4 or the Winegard Elite Outdoor Antenna, the differences become clear. The ClearStream 4 offers similar performance but doesn’t include a built-in preamplifier or LTE/5G filtering, which makes it less convenient for areas with significant interference. On the other hand, the Winegard Elite provides strong reception but lacks the automatic gain adjustment that the Ellipse Mix excels at.

One area where the competitors might have an edge is in size. Both the ClearStream and Winegard models are more compact, making them slightly easier to install in tight spaces. However, neither matches the robust signal optimization or interference filtering capabilities that this antenna delivers.

Value for Money

Given its features, the price-to-quality ratio of this product is impressive. You’re not just paying for an antenna; you’re getting a complete signal management system. Its cost-effectiveness becomes more apparent when you consider the absence of additional expenses for preamplifiers or signal filters. While it might seem pricier than budget antennas, the performance and reliability make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re someone who prioritizes stable and high-quality TV reception, the value here is undeniable.

Additional information