Mercury ST36B Indoor Amplified TV Aerial with DAB/FM Radio - Variable Gain Control

The Mercury ST36B is a mains-powered indoor aerial combining a 36dB amplifier, an adjustable UHF loop for digital terrestrial TV signals, and two 728mm telescopic VHF antennas for DAB and FM radio. A variable gain control knob on the base allows manual adjustment between minimum and maximum amplification to optimise signal strength in areas where over-amplification can cause distortion. An integrated LTE filter blocks interference from 4G and 5G mobile signals operating above 694MHz.

Designed for living rooms, bedrooms and offices where roof or loft aerials are impractical, the ST36B sits on a table or shelf and connects to a TV or radio via coaxial cable. The UHF loop pans and tilts on a ball joint to point towards the nearest transmitter, and the two telescopic VHF antennas extend to full length for FM and DAB reception. The unit draws 50mA at 12Vdc via an included mains adapter, with a power LED indicating active amplification.

The 36dB gain suits locations 10-65 miles from a transmitter where signal strength is moderate to weak. In areas very close to transmitters, the variable gain control allows the amplification to be reduced to prevent over-driving the tuner, which can manifest as pixelation or channel dropout. The built-in LTE filter is particularly relevant in areas near mobile phone masts, where strong 4G/5G signals can otherwise swamp the UHF TV band and cause interference.

The aerial covers UHF frequencies from 470-694MHz for Freeview digital TV and VHF frequencies from 40-230MHz for DAB and FM radio. The combined weight of 500g and compact 195 x 144 x 230mm footprint make the ST36B easy to reposition when testing different locations for optimal reception. The 1.2m coaxial lead and mains cable provide enough reach to place the aerial near a window or on a shelf away from metal objects that can block signals.

Product Manual

What's the difference between UHF and VHF signals on this aerial?

The adjustable loop receives UHF signals (470-694MHz) for digital terrestrial TV channels via Freeview. The two telescopic antennas receive VHF signals (40-230MHz) for DAB digital radio and FM radio. Both can be used simultaneously if connected to compatible equipment.

Do I need to adjust the gain control?

In most cases, setting the gain to maximum provides the strongest signal. However, if you're very close to a transmitter (within 5-10 miles) and experiencing pixelation or channel dropout, reduce the gain to prevent over-amplification. Start at maximum and dial down only if picture quality worsens.

What does the LTE filter do?

The LTE filter blocks 4G and 5G mobile phone signals operating above 694MHz, which can interfere with TV reception if you live near a mobile phone mast. This is built into the aerial and requires no additional setup.

How far from a transmitter will this work?

The manufacturer rates reception up to 65 miles, but real-world performance depends on terrain, building construction, and obstacles between the aerial and transmitter. Indoor aerials generally work best within 10-30 miles of a transmitter in areas without significant geographic obstructions.