The competition for world's smallest stabilized satellite TV antenna has come down to definitions.

By Ben Ellison

Photography by KVH

The competition for world's smallest stabilized satellite TV antenna has come down to definitions. KVH's new M1 is a 12.5-inch dish that only weighs 7.5 pounds while Intellian's new i1 (see below) is an 11-incher that tips the scale at 9.5 pounds. Both make onboard TV easier to have. In fact, KVH says the M1 is so light it can mount on a standard VHF antenna base, and both systems need only a co-ax cable between the dome and the controller below. However, KVH's $2,995 M1 includes its own 12-volt combination controller and DirectTV receiver, while Intellian, like most manufacturers, just provides the controller. I know from testing experience how compact and easy-to-use KVH's combination box is (see "Electronics," October 2006), but as explained below, if HD channels are important, you might consider an Intellian or even a King Control (see page 52) system that can pair with Dish or ExpressVu receivers. There's also the critical issue of satisfactory performance from a little dish on a tippy boat. KVH has the track record and also a coverage map claiming the whole U.S. coast; the others have yet to prove themselves.

KVH
(888) 584-4163