Cord-Cutters: Attenuator or Distribution Amplifier?

When it comes to TV signal, sometimes you need less, while other times you need more. That’s that makes these two products so interesting. In many ways, the Toner Cable Variable Attenuator and the Televes distribution amplifier are opposite devices. If you’re a cord-cutter having signal issues, which one do you need? We’re happy to explain. Without any further ado, here are the major differences between an attenuator and a distribution amp.

Is an Attenuator What You Need?

So, do you need to use an attenuator on your TV signal? Well, that depends. Do you live close to the TV transmissions towers in your media market? If you do, there’s a good chance that you’re experiencing what is known as “multi-path interference.” This happens when the TV signals are so strong that they literally bounce off nearby buildings. This creates interference that’s so strong that it causes a total loss of reception.

If you’re experiencing multi-path interference, we’d recommend the Toner Cable variable attenuator. This attenuator lets you adjust the signal power to reduce the interference. In essence, what you get is an adjustable TV amplifier. Just remember to install it somewhere that’s easily accessible so you can easily make your adjustments. Even cord-cutters with more than one antenna can use this device. (Multiple antennas can cause multi-path interference.) You don’t have to live close to the transmitters to get the benefits of this attenuator.

Here are some tips for using an attenuator:

  • Turn the dial to set for minimum attenuation (0dB) and maximum signal.
  • Adjust the knob to reduce signal power.
  • The maximum attenuation is -20dB (99% attenuation.)

How About a Distribution Amplifier?

Televes’s distribution amp lets you watch free TV in up to five rooms of your home. That said, this is not a splitter… Or, more to the point, it’s not just a splitter. This helps solve the problem of insertion loss by amplifying the TV signal before splitting it. This makes it ideal for TV antenna installations that use more than 150’ feet of cable. It operates in the 54-1,002 MHz range.

This amplifier is a durable and practical solution for many TV antenna installations. It’s designed to last for years without any maintenance. While it’s not designed for outdoor use, it can be used in a weatherproof enclosure if needed.

Attenuator Vs. Distribution Amp: Which One Do You Need?

So, after reading this, do you still find yourself wondering whether you need an attenuator or distribution amplifier? We’re happy to break it down into layman’s terms for you. If you are using a strong antenna amplifier or amplified antenna, and find that some channels appear strange, it just might be that you’ve over-amplified. You’ll need an attenuator in this situation. An attenuator will also help if you’re using an amplifier and one TV is much closer than the others. If you’re trying to distribute TV signal throughout a large home, then a distribution amp is the better way to go.

Get Expert Advice from Solid Signal

Do you want to cut the cord but you’re still confused about what your TV installation needs? That’s okay. While this content provides excellent information about attenuators versus distribution amplifiers, it’s not designed to make everyone an expert after just one read. If you’re not sure what equipment you need to cut the cord, Solid Signal is here to help. We’re an online electronics distributor that specializes in helping people cut the cord on cable TV.

Our team of product experts is at your disposal. Just give them a call at 888-233-7563. Tell them that you’re cutting the cord and you’re not sure if you need an attenuator or distribution amp. They’ll ask you a few questions about your installation then come up with an ideal product recommendation. If it’s after hours, no problem! Fill out the form below. We’ll get right back to you!

About the Author

Stuart Sweet
Stuart Sweet is the editor-in-chief of The Solid Signal Blog and a "master plumber" at Signal Group, LLC. He is the author of over 10,000 articles and longform tutorials including many posted here. Reach him by clicking on "Contact the Editor" at the bottom of this page.