Antenna for monitoring on RS Pro-96

[Lexx333]

I purchased a Diamond RH77CA antenna because it got stellar reviews. I put it on my RS Pro-96 but it doesn't seem to make much of a difference between the stock rubber ducky. The band I am most interested in improving is the HAM bands with the prefix 144.xx 145.xx 146.xx . I have tried monitoring outside and inside and I am not worried about transmitting. Is this antenna a good fit for these frequencies or am I not considering something? If not what antenna is?

[n9mxq]

Considering it's an antenna made for the 144-148 frequency band (and 440MHZ) I'd say you'd be hard pressed to find one better. I have one I have used on my dual band HT's for years..

One thing you may want to consider is that the repeaters are strong enough that the antenna won't make a difference. Also, the db figures given in the description are for transmitting, not receiving.

[benbenrf]

Looking at some of the online reviews, while users say great antenna most of those comparisons are made against stock handheld antennas - which are comprise antennas through & through, so for sure its going to be better.

Also many folk comment that at 144 the radiation angle is rather steep, which makes it good for nearby repeaters etc.... and so long as the transmitter originates a lot higher than yourself, otherwise there is little advantage. Comments are much more positive overall for 70cm use - where the rad angle is much lower.

That Gain figure is of little to no benefit at +/- 144Mhz.

Comet HT224 - shorter antenna with a good low rad angle right across the bandwidths (wide bandwidths)

[kb2vxa]

The radiation angle of an HT antenna makes little difference considering it can be held at any angle and usually is. In practice "gain" antennas make little difference since it is a function of the radiation angle but anything is better than a duck, we call them dummy loads.

[Lexx333]

Thank you for the responses everyone. I am learning a lot tonight. I appreciate the replies.

[wingmaker]

I have an st2 antenna and it picks those up excellent along with everything else. Killer antenna in my opinion. LOVE AND BLESSINGS