Our take on the Channel Master 2018

by Loren Barstow

Channel Master's 2018 antenna receives digital and analog over-the-air TV signals in the UHF and high-VHF bands. The 2018's space-efficient design is suitable for roof and attic installations.

The 2018 is a "directional" antenna design, which means it will provide the best results when most or all of the desired stations are transmitting from the same location. If you'd like to pull in signals from different directions, consider adding a rotor so you can easily aim your antenna for the best reception.

The 2018 is classified as a Large-sized Directional antenna, with a maximum range of 45 miles for UHF signals and 60 miles for high-band VHF signals. For tips on selecting an antenna, and links to websites that help you locate HDTV signals in your area, check out our article on choosing and installing an antenna for HDTV.

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Highlights:

receives digital & analog UHF and high-band VHF TV signals
range is 60 miles for high-band VHF (ch. 7-13) and 45 miles for UHF (ch. 14-69)
77-5/8"W x 22"H x 60"D
57-1/2" turning radius (if used with an antenna rotor)
75-ohm output for coaxial cable
can accommodate 1-1/4"-1-1/2" mast (not included)
warranty: 90 days
Our 60-day money-back guarantee
RG-6 cable is recommended

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What’s in the box? | In-depth notes

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What's in the box?

Download owner's manual

Long range HD Digital/UHF/VHF high TV antenna (2 pieces)
Matching transformer
S-clamp
U-bolt and clamp assembly
Bolt (Length=1-3/8")
5 Wing-nuts
Installation Instructions (English/Spanish)
"Danger" sticker

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Features

Overview: The Channel Master Digital Advantage Model 2018 is a compact outdoor TV antenna that covers an area of 1.24 square feet. With a total of 24 elements, it is engineered to receive high quality UHF/VHF high band frequencies. It is classified as a large directional antenna by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA).

Reception Range: This antenna receives only VHF channels 7-13 (VHF high band) and UHF channels 14-69. It does not receive VHF channels 2-6 (VHF low band). To receive channels 2-6, an oversized antenna is required. The reception range and average gain for this antenna are as follows:

VHF Channels (7-13):
- Reception Range: 60 miles
- Average Gain: 7.5dB
UHF Channels (14-69):
- Reception Range: 45 miles
- Average Gain: 8.4dB

Note: All distances are approximate, actual performance depends on too many variables to predict accurately.

Mounting: It can be mounted on a roof, wall, chimney, in an attic, or on a tripod. The manufacturer's suggested height limit is 10 feet above the rooftop.

Turning Radius: The Model 2018 has a 57-1/2" turning radius. If using an antenna rotor, you must make sure there are no obstructions around the antenna mast that would interfere with the antenna's rotation.

Connections: The included transformer is connected to the antenna tap-off points using the included wing nuts. The other end of the transformer has a female F-type connector. The included waterproof rubber weather boot should be installed over the cable connection to guard against corrosion.

Note: Coax cable is not provided; RG-6 is recommended.

Grounding: The antenna and mast should be properly grounded. Grounding provides lightning protection for the antenna and your TV set. A #8 or larger aluminum or copper wire connected between the antenna and grounding rod should be used. In addition, the Channel Master Grounding Block (item 6593274) is recommended for grounding the coaxial transmission lines.

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5 out of 5

Great product! Great Service!

Written By Phil, Washington DC on Saturday, February 09, 2013

Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)

The Channel Master 2018 is wonderful!

I live in the heart of Washington DC, with TV stations in all directions. This antenna has just the right mix of directional and broad reception. By pointing it at Baltimore, i am able to receive over 50 channels from DC, Baltimore and Annapolis without a rotator. It came with all the necessary hardware (I already had a mast), and was easy to install even working on my roof on a cold damp day.

And the service was excellent! I ordered this in the morning from Crutchfield and had it the next day!

Pros:

Great reception. Easy to install!

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4 out of 5

Channel Master 2018 - Review

Written By easyfreeHDTV, San Diego, CA on Saturday, November 03, 2012

Channel Master claims that the CM-2018 has a 45-60 mile range (I'd guess with perfect line-of-sight this might be possible, I'd go for a bigger directional antenna if you are hoping for reliable quality over 40 miles from the broadcast tower).

Following the instructions, the antenna unfolds easily. The antenna elements and assembly are somewhat fragile as it's constructed from lightweight aluminum so take your time and be careful.

The most difficult step in assembly was trying to decipher how the coaxial balun attaches to the antenna.

My antenna is mounted on a home-made mast 14´ above the roofline. Getting the antenna to that height made a huge difference in my ability to tune the local OTA broadcasts.

I would recommend going with a larger antenna if you are in a challenging location. (Maybe the Channel Master 3020)

Pros:

The Channel Master CM-2018 is a good value and performs well in my fringe reception area.

Cons:

I had one issue with a hinged plastic tab that cracked as I was assembling the antenna. I was able to make a simple repair with a zip-tie and all is fine and functional. The instructions covered a range of models and could have been more clear with diagrams specific to my antenna model.

1 out of 1 people found this helpful

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Channel Master 2018

Mid-range outdoor rooftop HDTV antenna

Item# 6592018 offer details

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