Find top-rated Pros in your area

Enter a zip code and get matched to businesses near you.

ANTENNA SYSTEMS SPECIALIST

TV Antenna, Phone Wiring

About us

We provide installed antenna product only, no retail sales. Hiding of coax, network and phone lines. Home Theater setup. Broadcast DVR recorder

Business highlights

49 years of trusted experience
Emergency Services Offered

Services we offer

INSTALLATION & SERVICE OF LOCAL TV RECEPTION EQUIPMENT. HOME THEATER, DVR & CONVERTER BOX SETUP, CELLULAR BOOSTER INSTALLATION

Services we don't offer

TELEVISION REPAIR.

Amenities

Free Estimates
Yes
Warranties
Yes
Senior Discount

5%

Emergency Services
Yes


Accepted payment methods

Check
PayPal

Reviews

4.826 Reviews
Number of StarsImage of DistributionNumber of Ratings
5
81%
4
0%
3
0%
2
4%
1
15%


Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.9
professionalism
4.9
responsiveness
4.8
punctuality
4.8
Showing 1-25 of 26 reviews

Daniel H.
06/2020
1.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
Never even call or quote the job! MAD
Description of Work: Fix antenna mount on roof and wiring 2 the TV.
Rating CategoryRating out of 5

Steve S.
06/2019
1.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
The first problem not solved is channel 7. I sent images and he admitted and recognized that the filter needed replacement. Nothing has been done. This the first thing that needs to be done to fix Channel 7. His own submitted documentation admits that it is necessary to change the channel 7 filter-nothing HAS BEEN DONE!! This is that starting point before getting to the broadcast channels. This can be done without even contacting me-this is not a wall jack-there is no need to access my unit for this. The problem with Channel 7 arose when additional security cameras where added to the system-early April. This should have been dealt with shortly after the camera additions. Instead nothing has been done! I do not believe that he ever wanted to fix or solve the problem. He installed an inverter-which has to do with power and has to do nothing with data transmission.There is a constant “snowy” image on the screen from”Day One”along with a constant horizontal bar that moves up from the bottom to the top. Deal with the degrading Broadcast channels after Channel 7 is fixed properly. First is was blame and now threats: I am following a path of pursuing filing complaints with consumer agencies and seeking legal advice on moving forward-if that is a threat-then so be it. Nothing has changed for me-because I see nothing being done.
Description of Work: TV Antenna service

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
1.0
professionalism
1.0
responsiveness
1.0
punctuality
1.0


Response from ANTENNA SYSTEMS SPECIALIST
Please enter what you would like the response to look like:The only correspondence I have had with Mr [Member Name Removed] has been thru email, he refuses to answer or return phone calls. Mr [Member Name Removed] likes to distort the facts. According to his email dated May 4, the problems in his unit began on Sept 1, 2018 when new security cameras were installed. I did not install the cameras and don't know the name of the company that did install them. A resident of the condo complex named [Member Name Removed] contacted me about the Channel 7 problem 7 months after the cameras were installed. [Member Name Removed] allowed me into the condo complex for repairs. Everything was operating correctly in the distribution area & [Member Information Removed] unit when we left. Mr [Member Name Removed] refuses to allow me into his unit to see what his problem is. I have attempted to include the email correspondence between Mr [Member Name Removed] from Property Mgmt Co), the BBB & myself but currently the info will not post to this site. I will continue to try posting. This message originally read on 6/12/2019 Rick Nichols Antenna Systems Specialist 5021 Vernon [Member Information Removed] Suite 180 Minneapolis MN 55436 Re: ID # 13588627 [Member Name Removed] Dear Rick Nichols: Thank you for your cooperation in responding to the above consumer'[Member Information Removed] complaint. We forwarded your response to [Member Name Removed] Though, the consumer indicated they are not satisfied BBB has determined your company addressed the issues within the complaint. We have closed this case in our files. This matter will appear in your BBB Business Review as: "Answered the business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer remains dissatisfied." The text of your response may be publicly posted on BBB'[Member Information Removed] website. BBB reserves the right to post or not post in accordance with BBB policy, and may edit your response to remove personally identifiable information inappropriate language. In the event the consumer contacts BBB again regarding this issue, we may reach out to you to review any new or additional information we've received from the consumer. We appreciate your cooperation in addressing this matter and hope we can be of service to you in the future. Sincerely, [Member Name Removed] M. Mediation Coordinator thefirstbbb.org What is the next step? Better Business Bureau has determined that you have made a good faith effort to answer the complaint and has now closed it There is no action for you to take at this time. We will contact you when we next require your input. Begin forwarded message: From: "freetv localtvmn.com" freetv localtvmn.com Date: June 10, 2019 3:20:11 PM CDT To: [Member Name Removed] thefirstbbb.org Bcc: freetv localtvmn.com, [Member Name Removed] rossp multiventure.net Subject: Re: complaint 13588627 (BBB) [Member Name Removed] Mr. [Member Name Removed] is a resident / owner at the [Member Information Removed] Parkway Condos, a 22 unit condo building in Minneapolis. In August or September of 2018 additional security cameras were added to the existing security system by a company whom I do not know. Apparently the problem with channel 7 began at that time. The company that installed the cameras was unable to fix the problem. In March 2019, my company was contacted by a resident named [Member Name Removed] who is either President of the HOA or the resident manager. I went out to the property on April 12, 2019 and repaired the channel 7 issue. Channel 7 looked good in the distribution/amplifier area & also on [Member Information Removed] TV. I was contacted by [Member Name Removed] of [Member Information Removed] who manages the property on Mar 30 about complaints from Mr [Member Name Removed]. I was unaware of any issues with the Broadcast channels until Mr [Member Name Removed] brought it up. I have called & left messages for Mr [Member Name Removed] several times. He refuses to speak with me. He started emailing with threats about his problem. I have tried to make arrangements to see & take signal measurements in his unit, but he refuses. I have attached all the correspondence I have had with Mr [Member Name Removed]. My company stepped into this problem in April 7 months after it began & the only resident with a problem that I am aware of, refuses to allow me into his unit to see & take measurements. I have attached copies of all correspondence with Mr [Member Name Removed] Rick Nichols Antenna Systems Specialist www.localtvmn.com 952 941 9067

Rowland G.
10/2017
1.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
See above. Nothing much to add here.
Description of Work: If you can't even respond to a request here at Angie's List, you don't deserve our business. We'll find someone else.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
professionalism
1.0
responsiveness
1.0


Eric E.
10/2016
2.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
I called multiple times over a 2-3 week period. Had some good conversations about what was needed, but never got back to me to set up a date for installation. Went with another provider.
Description of Work: Needed a satellite dish removed and an antenna installed.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
professionalism
3.0
responsiveness
1.0


Response from ANTENNA SYSTEMS SPECIALIST
Customer had purchased an antenna that he wanted installed. I will install customer product, but prefer installing product that will last 10 years or longer without requiring additional servicing. Based on the information I was given about the antenna & my 40 years experience, I did not think that it would provide adequate signals on channels 9 & 11 or survive the elements more than a couple of years. Therefore I did not install the product.

Lori B.
09/2016
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
All went well. There was no way I would be going up and down to the roof as many times as he did!
Description of Work: For some reason we weren't able to get the channels we "should have" gotten at our cabin using our old antenna. Rick knows his stuff, to be sure! It took a while; he had to add some stuff to our antenna, but at the end of the day, we are getting every possible channel at our cabin.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$450

John K.
07/2016
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
Due to severe storms and some unknown issue had many issues with reception. Rick was awesome, he showed up on time set everything up perfectly. Actually my reception is about 25 channels better then before the storm, and the tv picture is terrific. I did email Rick and it did take about 2 days for him to reply, he called left a message. I called and Rick was available right away.
Description of Work: Re-aim antenna, and determine why signal after storm dropped.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro

Charles B.
12/2015
1.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
I sent Rick a message through Angie's List on Nov 21st, emailed him directly on Nov 28th and then called and left a message on Dec 2nd and as of today (Dec 6th) have not heard back. I appreciate that this may be a seasonal business, but there is no indication of that on his Angie's List page, his website or his voicemail message. Was really hoping to get my arial connected up before the worst of the winter kicks in, but I guess I'll have to find another option. Disappointing because he seems to do good work based on the other reviews
Description of Work: Despite three attempts to contact Rick I have not been able to get a call back to schedule a time for him to come out.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
responsiveness
1.0


pam H.
08/2015
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
unknown
Description of Work: Rick was very efficient and knows antennas & tuning your TV reception. He found the best signal location on my roof for the antenna and installed it there. The installation is very neat and looks great - inside and outside.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
3.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$450

Joe H.
06/2015
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
Rick did a great job! He was on time and very detailed. Found the optimal signal reception point on my roof for the antenna position. Antenna is set such that it's not very visible from the road. Ran cables neatly across the rood and paid careful attention to where the wires would run down the side of the house. He wired 2 rooms an grounded the cables. Rick has been in the business for many years and does not cut corners. Rick does not buy low quality equipment/parts and understands value of doing the job right. Would definitely recommend his work.
Description of Work: Install outdoor TV antenna, new RG6 wiring to 2 rooms.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$550

Janice J.
05/2015
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
I am extremely happy with my new outdoor antenna! I had been using an indoor antenna for the winter to see if just using local channels and Netflix/Amazon Prime would be enough to get away from our expensive Directv bill. It was great using the local channels but the reliability of my indoor antenna was pretty bad. When I talked to Rick he was 100% confident that I would get all my local channels in crystal clear with a nice outdoor antenna on the roof. He also had a cancellation and was able to get the work done that week. The whole process went really good. It only took a couple hours to do the work, including taking down my satellite dish. Its only been a week but so far its been rock solid. We even had a storm blow through and still had perfect reception the whole time. So with our new antenna hooked to our Tivo OTA we are very happy "cord cutters".
Description of Work: Installed a new antenna on the roof.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$450

John K.
02/2015
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
He was very punctual showed up right on time. Came prepared to get on my roof which is extremely steep.
Description of Work: Installed new TV antenna. Set up two TVs.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$450

Ray G.
01/2015
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
Showed up with all the parts even had an extra converter box for my old TV.
Description of Work: He showed up at the exact time he said he would. Was very knowledgable about his trade. Got the work done in a timely and professional manner.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$450

Jeffrey K.
12/2014
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
Rick is an absolute professional! Could not be more satisfied. He made sure the antenna was properly selected for our needs, installed it in short time, ran the cables neatly, and assisted in setting up each of our 3 televisions to ensure we had great reception. I would HIGHLY recommend calling Rick for your next antenna install and ditch the overpriced cable or satellite bills. Why pay for commercials? The reception is perfect! I got everything I wanted and more out of this installation. Rick even helped install and program a converter box for one of our older tube style televisions. Above and beyond Rick!
Description of Work: Installed external antenna on residence

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

$450

Dwight P.
11/2014
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
Called to ask if he could come and look at my antenna. Picture would break up on some channels on a windy day. Rick said he could be there in two hours and he was. He checked the signal strength at the TV and then went up on the roof of my two story house, climbed up on the chimney, repaired the corroded coax cable and oriented the antenna for maximum signal strength. I had installed it using the compass settings from a web site. He also suggested that I could get about an 8% gain in signal strength for each of my component by replacing my 1 to 4 spilter, with one output not used, with 1 to 3 spilter . Haven't had any windy weather yet but I can now get some channels that I couldn't get before.
Description of Work: Did an alignment and repair of roof antenna.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$220

ERIK L.
11/2014
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
Rick was great -- on time, on price he explained before he arrived, took his time testing to get the best signal, worked until the job was finished, and he's a nice guy to talk with. He was more than happy to drive to Northfield to do the job.
Description of Work: Installed an antenna with a 45-60 mile range on the roof. Installed a pre-amplifier on antenna. Installed a DVR on on TV. Installed short coax lines to 2 TVs. Worked with a central broadcast distribution point in the house. Ensured all his work was done well.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$750

BARBARA M.
07/2014
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
He was punctual, friendly, thorough, honest, and safety-conscious. The TV now receives very well. I especially appreciated the fact that he fixed my existing antennae, doing what he needed to do to perfect my service, rather than trying to sell me a whole new outfit.
Description of Work: Rick came to repair my antennae service, which had been funky since a very bad storm last year, and got a lot worse after our recent deluge. He re-oriented the antennae, which was pointing the wrong way, and applied some weather-proofing devices to the system. Also, he improved the connection to the antennae from the signal splitter in the basement.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$158

Matthew H.
07/2014
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
He did a great job! Very professional, worked around our schedule, and the finished product is great. Reception is very good and we get more channels than we did with our old antenna, which we ordered online. Installed a new antenna and hid all the wires--you can't see any of the cable runs, very good quality work and value.
Description of Work: Installed a new rooftop antenna, removed old multi-directional we were having problems with, and hooked everything up.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
4.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$450

DUSTIN A.
06/2014
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
It's been about 30 days since Rick did work for me. I have a ~2k sq.ft tuckunder with a 6 pitch roof. I remember the day well. Rick spent more time on my site than I would imagine is typical, which I appreciated. The backstory is that I had a previous install done about a year earlier (by a different provider), and when my reception became buggy, I needed a thorough diagnosis as much as anything else. So, Rick took the time to help me understand more about how an antenna might work properly, and why it might not work properly. It felt nice to be included in the problem-solving process. But more importantly, I think the brief education I received will also give me a better sense of control of what I own, which is the reason I wanted to have an alternative to cable in the first place. Before doing any permanent alterations to my existing setup, Rick made measurements of the signal specific to my home's position. He then got to work up top, communicating his rationale for each decision he made as he tried to preserve what was still functional on my existing setup, even as the best option, it turned out, was to use his equipment and mount from the start. I trusted that he was looking out for the best value available to me, as I could actually watch the quality of the signal change for the better as he replaced the old with the new. He had his own ladder and came fully equipped to do what was needed. The whole process took about 3 hours, though as I mentioned above this is probably longer than either of us would expect a normal install to take. If you are a new cord-cutter and find yourself calling Rick, I would recommend being home when he does his work, because much of the value is in the concise education you can get edgewise. There's just not a ton of lore available in the common channels otherwise, that is in this age of ubiquitous digital devices, cable and satellite TV. In the event you think you would have a clean outdoor install say, while you were at work or out running errands, I think he would make the right decisions for you anyway. My understanding is he has been doing this for a long time and makes use of an extensive background in residential and commercial media technology. It's now 30 days later, a month of record storms, including at least one with dangerously high winds, and everything is working as well as it was on the day it went up. More importantly, I've settled into a better sense of overall control of what's beaming into my house. I use cable for internet only now, and while the cable company's bundling schemes don't make it much cheaper to drop cable tv outright, I at least have a smidgen of bargaining power now. Of course it is just more pleasant to have fewer channels, a feeling much like I just cleaned out a few tons of old junk from my attic. I get all the networks and 3 pbs channels in high-def, local weather, and about a dozen syndicated channels. For me, the $450 will pay for itself in less than a year.
Description of Work: Evaluated a prior install by another provider. Performed diagnostic for optimal signal strengths for new install and antenna calibration. Installed a new antenna with J-mount on the "sweet spot" on the roof. Kept unproblematic components in place, and replaced completely what was needed to be replaced. Attached lightning arrests and grounds. Provided expert rationale for each of his recommendations and actions.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
4.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$450

Joni W.
09/2013
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
The reception is awesome. The signal is so pure and clean. It's just unbelievable. Everything works perfect, I'd recommend him to anyone.
Description of Work: He installed a, free over the air, TV antenna on our roof. He also took our old satellite dish down, and patched up everything on the roof. The antenna is connected to three different TVs. He disconnected our old satellite equipment and brought in the free TV.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$500

Amy S.
06/2013
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
Rick was on time, communication was excellent. The TV/jack looks and works great.
Description of Work: We had a bad jack in one of the rooms in the house leading up to our antenna on the roof, and also needed a new flat screen TV installed (mounted on the wall). Rick worked on both of these items.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$355

Chuck B.
04/2013
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
Rick came on time, was courteous, efficient and very thorough. He obviously knew his business. I've done coxial tv cable install, and so was able to determine he was doing exactly what was needed. Our signal is excellent. Rick made sure we would call him if there were any difficulties. We don't anticipate any. When he discovered he did not need to replace the antenna he significantly reduced the cost to us. Fine service courteously done. I'd use him again, but I don't expect to ever need him!
Description of Work: Checked out our current antenna and determined not to replace it, replaced a 4 way splitter, advised against antenna amplification, checked cable ends to 4 tvs (replacing many), replaced some substandard cables and splitters, and checked signal strength to all tvs.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$280

Raquel C.
03/2013
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
They did a good job. It seems to have worked well. I am pretty happy with them.
Description of Work: They installed an antenna for us.
Rating CategoryRating out of 5
Yes, I recommend this pro

Merrilee H.
02/2013
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
Once it was done I have not had any trouble. He also gave me his card and let me know he was on a pager and told me to call if I had any problems. It was nice to have the assurance. He was very polite and professional. I am planning on having him come back out to do more work for me as well.
Description of Work: He replaced an outside tv antenna and made and adjustment with a new piece.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$500

Wayne L.
01/2013
5.0
tv antenna
  + -1 more
I was not able to be home when the work was performed. I explained my objective to Rick and trusted him to make it all work. Rick explained his plan and the importance of not locating the antenna in the attic of the home. The job was very professionally done. The roof mounted antenna is small and securely mounted. Rick aligned and tuned the antenna circuits to obtain the optimal signal at the TVs. The results were outstanding. Eye-popping colors, no signal distortion, and numerous stations to choose from. I receive all the major network channels including 4 channels of public broadcasting and 3 channels of St. Michael Broadcasting that includes many EWTN programs. Rick's system has now been operating over 3 years and never a glitch - none! I recommend Rick to anyone desiring high quality, over the air, TV reception in their building.
Description of Work: Desired quality TV reception from free, over the air, broadcasts at my residence. I knew Rick had vast experience with antenna systems and trusted him to provide what my location and home set up required.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
3.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$340

Bruce W.
03/2007
5.0
Mr. Nichols is an expert in TV antenna installations and did a perfect job of installation of this unusual cell booster roof antenna, amplifier and inside antenna. He specializes in outdoor antennas, usually for TV. He came well equipped, did his work professionally and thoroughly. Highly recommended.
Description of Work: Installation of specialized cell phone antenna booster system.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$465
    • 1(current)
    • 2

Contact information

5021 Vernon Ave S Ste 180, Minneapolis, MN 55436

www.alt-tech.net

Licensing

Insured

No License Required for Trade
State Contractor License Requirements

All statements concerning insurance, licenses, and bonds are informational only, and are self-reported. Since insurance, licenses and bonds can expire and can be cancelled, homeowners should always check such information for themselves. To find more licensing information for your state, visit our State Contractor License Requirements page.

*Contact business to see additional licenses.


Service Categories

TV Antenna,
Phone Wiring

FAQ

ANTENNA SYSTEMS SPECIALIST is currently rated 4.8 overall out of 5.
ANTENNA SYSTEMS SPECIALIST accepts the following forms of payment: Check,PayPal
Yes, ANTENNA SYSTEMS SPECIALIST offers free project estimates.
No, ANTENNA SYSTEMS SPECIALIST does not offer eco-friendly accreditations.
Yes, ANTENNA SYSTEMS SPECIALIST offers a 5% senior discount.
Yes, ANTENNA SYSTEMS SPECIALIST offers emergency services.
Yes, ANTENNA SYSTEMS SPECIALIST offers warranties.
ANTENNA SYSTEMS SPECIALIST offers the following services: INSTALLATION & SERVICE OF LOCAL TV RECEPTION EQUIPMENT. HOME THEATER, DVR & CONVERTER BOX SETUP, CELLULAR BOOSTER INSTALLATION
TELEVISION REPAIR.

Contact information

5021 Vernon Ave S Ste 180, Minneapolis, MN 55436

www.alt-tech.net