Kramster, as a general rule of thumb, keep in mind too that many antennas are going to be more or less directional with the exception of a vertical antenna which will be omni-directional. I also use Alpha Delta brand dipoles for my ham band antennas and like your Alpha Delta DX-CC, the main lobe for reception will be perpendicular to the direction the wires run in. By using multiple wire antennas; dipoles, off center fed, end fed, etc., and orienting them in different directions, you can achieve multiple reception angles and directions further maximizing your reception capabilities. Even a well placed vertical with a good ground system and due to what is known as the "take-off angle" of the radio wave (same for receive) will give you an even broader complement of antennas to select from to see which one is receiving your target signal better. Using a good coaxial antenna switch will make for a quick assessment of which antenna to use to receive your signal of interest. Have fun and experiment! Then as you learn about antennas and their characteristics, you will better understand how the different designs come into play with reception during times of poor propagation. In about 5 or 6 years, however, you will be amazed at how well signals are being received. Its the so-called sunspot cycle and right now we are at the worst possible part of the cycle. The good news is that things
WILL get better from this day forward. Guaranteed!
