Antenna for BC125AT

[IndianaAmateur]

Hello all, first post here and looking for advice on my new scanner. I'm looking to get a slightly better antenna for it than the stock one. I am in Elkhart County, Indiana. Elkhart County, Indiana (IN) Scanner Frequencies and Radio Frequency Reference Main goals are listening to local fire/police and air traffic in the area as well. Looks like the local fire/PD are 153-155. I have been able to pick up Chicago air traffic as well occasionally, I believe that was 127?

Is there an antenna I can get that will improve reception of both of my wants, or would they only be good for one of them at a time? If I take the scanner to an airshow I would probably put the stock antenna back on for size.I have seen the following antennas recommended, but I'm not sure they would work. Just trying to find my best option, covering the most frequency if possible. Again, total newb to this stuff and just want to get the best option. I don't mind spending a bit more for the best option. If I can keep it under $50 that would be great.

Super-Elastic Signal Stick Super-Elastic Signal Stick™: BNC
Lots of options for versions, but I didn't see any of them that match what I need I think?

Smiley Duck Antenna

Smiley Antenna Aircraft Airband VHF Antenna | 3 dBd Gain | 6.5” Handheld Aviation Antenna USA Made | Smiley Antenna Co., Inc. | VHF UHF GMRS Handheld Radio Antenna | Made in USA

Smiley Antenna airband VHF antenna for handheld radios. Clear aviation communication, low SWR, and durable 6.5” design. Hand-tuned in USA since 1984.

www.smileyantenna.com

Listed for aircraft, but there are 3 options for frequencies, so would I just pick the 125-132 since that's what I picked up local stuff on as well? I like that it's smaller, but for at home I'm ok with a larger antenna.

DIAMOND SRH77CA
Looks like the Diamond site is down at the moment, but I found it here: DIAMOND SRH77CA
Specs show that maybe it covers the best range, but I have seen people say that the Signal Stick is better.

Thanks in advance for your help!

 

[737mech]

Not the SRH77CA you need the RH77CA. The bnc model. SRH is the SMA connector.

 

[IndianaAmateur]

Not the SRH77CA you need the RH77CA. The bnc model. SRH is the SMA connector.

Yes you are correct sorry about that! Do you think it would be a good choice of antenna? And is Ham Radio Outlet a good site to get it?

 

[Enforcer52]

Most of the Public Safety in Elkhart County is on the Indiana Project Hoosier SAFE-T system which is also on Simulcast towers. They still maybe broadcasting some on the VHF/UHF frequencies, so you maybe missing a lot of traffic. Not in that area so not sure. But if you want to pick up more in your area then a SDS100/200 will be needed for the Simulcast system SAFE-T works on.

The Diamond SRH77CA is an excellent antenna, and what I use on my handhelds.

 

[IndianaAmateur]

Most of the Public Safety in Elkhart County is on the Indiana Project Hoosier SAFE-T system which is also on Simulcast towers. They still maybe broadcasting some on the VHF/UHF frequencies, so you maybe missing a lot of traffic. Not in that area so not sure. But if you want to pick up more in your area then a SDS100/200 will be needed for the Simulcast system SAFE-T works on.

The Diamond SRH77CA is an excellent antenna, and what I use on my handhelds.

Thankfully my local fire department is still on the older frequencies so I can still hear them, and I can hear dispatch as well talking to them. My Dad just got a newer scanner that I think can hear the SAFE-T so I'm sure he will hear more than me, but my budget is more limited than his.

Glad to hear the Diamond works well!

 

[xms3200]

I only monitor VHF air band, and I have all three of those antennas. For VHF air, the Smiley 118 -132 Mhz beats the rest hands down, The Diamond was not impressive on VHF air and the Signal Sticks was only a little better. The Smiley will definitely improve your VHF air reception.

 

[IndianaAmateur]

I only monitor VHF air band, and I have all three of those antennas. For VHF air, the Smiley 118 -132 Mhz beats the rest hands down, The Diamond was not impressive on VHF air and the Signal Sticks was only a little better. The Smiley will definitely improve your VHF air reception.

Thanks for the reply. So I see there are 3 versions of the 118-132, do I just pick the one that is closest to what I need? My closest airport would be KGSH. Goshen Municipal Airport [KGSH] (Elkhart County) Scanner Frequencies and Radio Frequency Reference
So the local frequency would be 123 but Chicago is 127 so I would be in between versions. Any advice?

 

[xms3200]

I spoke with the owner, Lori Smashey, she explained that although it is listed as 3 separate frequency ranges for VHF air, they all cover 118 to 136Mhz, she said she needs to update the site. What I ordered is the mid range, 125 - 132Mhz, I think on the packaging it says 118 - 132Mhz. You will be amazed at how much of a signal boost you get from the ground stations when you use this antenna. I have mine attached to the Icom IC-R15

 

[spongella]

I use a telescopic antenna, the Comet BNC-W100RX for general scanning.

 

[garyscot]

You will find all the multiband antennas are a compromise. Disregard all the hype about gain and other marketing BS. True gain at VHF is much too long for any portable. For VHF 150-155 or thereabouts a base loaded 10.5 inch 1/4 wave duck or true 1/4 wave (about 18-19 inches) antenna is what you are after. I am not aware of anyone who sells a 19" antenna anymore. No cop or firefighter wants to pack that mess around in their belt. You can find a scanner telescoping whip set at about 18" or make one with some thin whip wire. a BNC connector and some epoxy (and maybe something rubbery to coat the end product for safety) if you are adventurous. Centurion used to make a 10.5 inch long rubber "Tuff Duck" portable antenna. After all my real world testing it was the best for police/ fire departments. Centurion sold out to Laird and I do not know what Laird did with them. I think TE systems makes a similar antenna now. Be sure to get the BNC model connector for your 125AT.