Its all in the antenna and coax. I can copy Detroit here in Rochester Hills very well. But I had to experment with different antennas and antenna locations. Detroit's system towers antenna's are setup to radiate towards the city due to Canada and interference to them. Stock antenna - forget it. You will need the 800mhz antenna before you start looking for a good place to put your scanner. I have a antenna that mounts to a window with suction cups and if I move it just inches the reception changes.