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VHF Replacement antenna

Discussion in 'Technical Discussion' started by MBevins, Feb 2, 2018.

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  1. MBevins, Feb 2, 2018
    #1
    MBevins

    MBevins Senior Member

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    I have to replace the 8' VHF antennas .
    Before I go and just buy a pair of Shakespeare's, is there now a better option?
  2. CaptPKilbride, Feb 2, 2018
    #2
    CaptPKilbride

    CaptPKilbride Senior Member

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  3. Prospective, Feb 2, 2018
    #3
    Prospective

    Prospective Senior Member

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    I really like the Digital's. Very nice "finish" on the fiberglass but the bet part is the micro adapter which allows you to chase thru small holes and saves you from having to crimp/solder.
  4. Capt Ralph, Feb 2, 2018
    #4
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    Everybody has a good finish these days. Everybody's sticks work well when built on a good day.
    All sticks only last 5 years before the fuzz in the glass finish and the fuzz in the radio happens.
    There are no atomic antennas that last forever.

    That said, I purchase and recommend the tallest, most DB (large power boat ap) stick that can bolt on, that is on sale the week it's needed.
    It's usually a Shakespeare Galaxy and have never been let down.

    There is nothing better than a proper solder connect at the end of the coax & PL259. I have tried those gold clamp on thingies. For emergencies; Maybe.
    A part of my normal ships radio system; heck no.
  5. Caltexflanc, Feb 3, 2018
    #5
    Caltexflanc

    Caltexflanc Senior Member

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    X2 on the Digitals. Or Morad if you want to be all heavy duty.
    Digital's connector system (which is NOT a "gold clamp thingy") has stood the test of time, and is always "propery soldered".
  6. MBevins, Feb 4, 2018
    #6
    MBevins

    MBevins Senior Member

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    I had a look at the Morad antenna. They look really good. I suspect that is the way to go.
  7. Northwind, Feb 17, 2018
    #7
    Northwind

    Northwind Member

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    I went with the Shakespeare Phase 3 antennas. Not sure the finish is that much better than anything else. But the connectors are notably better. I followed the weakest link argument and attached the Phase 3 antennas to my system with LMR400 wire and connectors.