Overview
Accessing streaming services and free over-the-air TV is only becoming more popular with time, and this has led to people wanting to find the best hardware to enhance their experience. RGTech have produced two antenna models for people to consider – the Monarch 40 and the Monarch 50.
When buying an antenna, there is plenty to think about prior to the purchase. Factors could include finding a piece of equipment which won’t look too out of place in the home, or attract too much attention. Additionally, people won’t want to become bogged down with device setup, especially if it’s complex, so hardware with a plug and play mechanism works well. Additionally, ease of mounting or using a stand for an antenna plays an important part in reducing interference from external sources.
Why purchase an HDTV antenna?
The RGTech Monarch 50 is an important purchase for many cord cutters, because the benefits of viewing OTA television instead of signing up for a cable or satellite subscription are numerous. As suggested, the main benefit is the absence of any cost involved with over the air television, whereas a regular bill will usually be required if you use a different option. The reason such channels are free is simply due to the fact that advertisers are the ones who pay for the broadcast networks, so you get out of footing the bill. This means that all you have to do is make a one-off purchase for a RGTech Monarch 50 and let the device do the rest of the work.
It’s quick and easy to get set up with this model of RGTech Monarch HD antenna, as the only equipment you’ll need is a television with a digital tuner, the antenna and a knowledge of where your local broadcast towers are located. Then it’s just a case of plugging in the antenna and seeing which position is best for receiving the highest quality OTA signal. It’s important to remember that objects such as trees, buildings and hills could obstruct the signal, so it’s recommended to place the antenna as high up as possible. An ideal placement would be outside; alternatively, you could try placing it in your attic or simply as high up inside your room as possible.
The RGTech Monarch 50 is a multidirectional device capable of picking up channels from as far as 50 miles away. In essence, this means that you could live 50 miles away from your closest city or broadcast tower and still, most likely, be able to pick up the local channels available. What’s more, you don’t have to worry about being tied into a purchase, as if you do find the antenna won’t pick up any signals in your area for any reason, you can return the device within 30 days for a full refund.
Appearance
When compared to the Monarch 40, the Monarch 50 is much larger in size. Measuring roughly 16 inches by 7 inches, it’s a reasonable size considering its range. It comes in black and clear – unlike the Monarch 40, which can be purchased in white – and is less than an inch deep at its thickest point. The grids are different depending on the color you purchase it in; while the clear model’s grid is smaller and black, the black model’s grid is bigger and features various textures.
Those who purchase this product will get an antenna with a 15 foot long cable; in comparison, the 40 has a ten foot long cable. Instead of the screw-on coaxial cable, there is a push-on model instead. This feature comes with both the 40 and the 50, and many people find it more convenient. If you want to hang it from the wall, you can use the double sided tape which comes attached on the antenna side. This tape is 3 metres long, meaning there is lots of flexibility when it comes to where in your home you want to place the antenna. Alternatively, you can use a two-piece stand, which comes in the box, and have that for holding your antenna up instead.
Available channels and performance
The RGTech Monarch 50 is designed to pull in HD, digital and analog signals up to 50 miles away and in all directions. It’s fully compatible with free-to-air digital TV and radio station providers, and any digital TV.
Users will enjoy high performance levels with this antenna. This is because it makes use of technology similar to that used by Dr Argy Petros for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, used in remote sensing applications. Due to its flat, thin, portable and light-weight design, the RGTech Monarch 50 can be easily transported to any location, making it simple and quick to plug it in to your TV in any situation – whether you’re at home, on the road, in an RV or sailing. It can be used indoors or outdoors, and is light enough to be easily placed on a window pane or wall, or behind a curtain for a subtle effect.
Tech and features
This antenna was engineered and designed in the USA by Dr Argy Petros. Essentially, space technology has been transformed into a product which allows users to watch high quality television from anywhere. Petros holds 23 patents and is a NASA Space Technology Hall of Fame scientist, so the design can definitely be trusted. The Monarch Indoor HDTV antennas make use of Ultra-Wideband Technology (UWB), which is a technology usually applied in radars with the net result of high bandwidth. On top of this, the multi-directional reception ability and integrated 4G filter – eliminating mobile phone signal transmitters interference – makes for a high quality image on your TV.
The RGTech Monarch 50 features 4K and 1080p reception, and is capable of picking up UHF, HD, DAB-radio and VHF. No power supply is required, as all you have to do is plug it in to your TV and it will be ready to use. The easy Push-on-F-connector means all you have to do is get the antenna to scan for channels, and then they will become accessible on your TV. There is no need for any tools or assembly, and you can enjoy high quality pictures on your TV screen from anywhere in your home or beyond.
Pricing
This antenna comes at a low price of $24.90 on Amazon, and this is often subject to discounts or other special offers. There is a 30 day money back guarantee included with every purchase, which means that if you can’t get reception using the RGTech Monarch 50 in your home due to factors such as rural location, you will be able to return it within this timeframe and receive a full refund. Furthermore, there is a 5 year warranty in place, so if you experience any technical issues with the antenna before this timeframe expires, you will be able to get repairs carried out for no additional cost.
Summary
The RGTech Monarch 50 is a small, versatile and well-priced antenna which provides superb signal strength in a range of locations. It supports 1080p and 4K, as well as a range of other sources, and there is a 4G filter to eliminate any unwanted mobile phone interference. With all of the above and an easy to install setup, along with double sided tape and a stand for ease of setup, this antenna is well worth giving a go.