There are numerous low-priced A/V distribution amps available. For example, Xantech, which is available from almost any distributor, offers the 6-output AV-61 @ $63.00.
It would be a shame to waste the capability of DVD and the Sharp TVS by modulating a signal to RF. RF should be used only if existing wiring paths need to be used, or if there are a large number of TVs to distribute to. The picture and sound will be inferior.
I would distribute the signal as composite video and line-level, stereo audio. Run RG-59 Copper-Braid (NOT ALUMINUM!)for the video signal. Use line-level cable, which contains two 22ga. twisted pairs, each separately shielded, with a ground wire. If you can't find it, post your concern on this thread and I will give you some good sources.
One more idea: The Sharp Aquos televisions have a nice feature-- A/V monitor out. By getting into the menu, you can switch the second A/V input to be an output. The TVs could be daisy-chained together composite video and line-level audio connections. This would eliminate the need for a distribution amp with almost the same quality of picture and sound.
To do the job right (distributing with A/V instead of RF modulation), you will have to know how to solder on RCA connectors. I think that the reason so many people don't use AV instead of RF is because they don't feel comfortable soldering. It's scarey to think that some technicians don't know how.
If you want to take it a step further, you could distribute component video. An inexpensive, 4-output component video DA, with stereo audio is available from CE Labs for about $90.00 Look on MCM Electronics website (
WWW.MCMINONE.COM). You have to watch out for them trying to charge you more-- hold them to the advertised price.
If you distribute component video, you can still use RG-59 copper-braid. You will need to run three RG-59s of equal length for the video, and of course stereo line-level cable for the audio.
